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New Book Releases for June 2014

12 Thursday Jun 2014

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StackofBooksContemporary:

All Right Here by Carre Armstrong Gardner — Ivy Darling can’t have children of her own, and her husband Nick’s resentment is forcing them apart. And while Ivy has the support and love of her large, close-knit family, Nick’s family has never welcomed her into the fold. When the three children next door are abandoned by their mother, Ivy and Nick take them in for the night. One night becomes several, and suddenly Ivy and Nick find themselves foster parents to the only African-American kids in the town of Copper Cove, Maine. As Ivy grows more attached to the children, Nick refuses to accept their eclectic household as a permanent family. Just as Ivy begins to question whether or not she wants to save her emotionally empty marriage, Nick begins to discover how much Ivy and the children mean to him. But is his change of heart too little, too late? (Contemporary Fiction from Tyndale House)

A Woman of Fortune by Kellie Coates Gilbert — Texas socialite Claire Massey is living the dream. Her world is filled with designer clothes, luxury cars, and stunning homes. But her Neiman-Marcus lifestyle comes crashing down when her charming cattle broker husband is arrested for fraud. Suddenly, she finds herself facing attorneys, a media frenzy, and a trail of broken hearts. Betrayed and humiliated, Claire must start over against incredible odds to save her family–and discover a life worth living. (Contemporary Fiction from Revell [Baker Publishing Group])

The Cat Lady’s Secret by Linda W. Yezak — Emily Taylor loves to help people, loves to ease their burdens and make their dreams come true. But when a conman ruins her reputation, she discovers that helping others is safer and easier from behind the scenes. When one of Emily’s gifts captures the attention of an avid journalist, her identity as the town’s anonymous benefactor-and her renewed relationship with her high school sweetheart-are threatened. As her private life begins to unravel, she realizes the one hope for regaining control lies behind prison walls. (Contemporary Women’s Fiction from Harbourlight Books[Pelican])

Contemporary Romance:

A Romance Rekindled by Kimberly Rose Johnson — Susan Hill can’t forget how Blake Mitchell jilted her and left their hometown without an explanation. But when he returns to Leavenworth, the ruggedly handsome writer evokes conflicting emotions, especially when Susan meets the child she assumes is his daughter. Since his parents’ deaths six years ago, Blake’s been raising his little sister on his own. But he’s never forgotten the woman he left behind. Now, he can’t undo the past, but maybe he can change the future…if he can convince Susan to give him one more chance. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Lakeside Sweethearts by Lisa Jordan — Agnes Kingsley can hardly bear to walk past the house she lived in as a married woman. It’s full of bad memories she’s never shared-not even with her best friend, Ian James. But now Ian wants her help to restore that old home for a community project. Agnes knows it’s for a good cause, but as their work brings them even closer together, she’s afraid to trust-in herself or in the feelings she’s secretly harbored for her childhood friend. Yet as they chip away at the house, walls come down around both their hearts…uncovering a foundation to last a lifetime. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Their Unexpected Love by Kathleen Y’Barbo — Widowed contractor Logan Burkett knows exactly what troublemaking teens need: discipline. A former rabble-rouser, Logan had his life turned around by firm guidance and hard work. But try telling that to Pippa Gallagher. The softhearted event planner runs a skate park ministry for troubled teens and thinks a place to be themselves is the answer. As he and Pippa work together renovating the space, they seem to disagree about everything. But when disaster strikes, Logan finds himself feeling very protective of the beautiful planner and surprised to discover they share one very special thing in common…love. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inpspired [Harlequin])

Historical Fiction:

The Hatmaker’s Heart by Carla Stewart — Nell Marchwold is fortunate to have landed a job as an apprentice designer at the prominent Oscar Fields Millinery in New York City. When Nell’s fresh designs begin to catch on, her boss holds her back from the limelight, claiming the stutter she’s had since childhood reflects poorly on her and his salon. But it seems Nell’s gift won’t be hidden by Oscar’s efforts. Soon an up-and-coming fashion designer is seeking her out as a partner of his 1922 collection. The publicity leads to an opportunity for Nell to make hats in London for a royal wedding. There, she sees her childhood friend, Quentin, and an unexpected spark kindles between them. But thanks to her success, Oscar is determined to keep her. As her heart tugs in two directions, Nell must decide what she is willing to sacrifice for her dream, and what her dream truly is. (Historical General Fiction from Faith Words [Hachette])

Historical Romance:

Four Weddings & a Kiss by Margaret Brownley, Debra Clopton, Mary Connealy, and Robin Lee Hatcher — In 1885 five western preachers sit around a campfire talking about unlikely couples they’ve seen God bring together. (Historical Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson & Zondervan])

The Beaches and Brides Romance Collection by Lynn A. Coleman, Susan Page Davis, Mary Davis, Paige Winship Dooly and Cathy Marie Hake — Venture along historic American shorelines, enjoying five stories that are full of adventure, challenge, and romance. In Key West a couple collides over a child’s welfare. In Washington, a captain’s wife guards a secret. In Maine, a castaway returns from the dead. In Georgia, a woman dares to man a lighthouse alone. In Virginia, a wounded soldier recoups at a seaside cottage. Watch as God works through their challenges to bring them safely to a harbor of love. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Stuck Together by Mary Connealy — Tina Cahill, newly arrived from the East, is determined to get the saloon in Broken Wheel, Texas, closed for good. To that end, she pickets outside the place every afternoon. Unfortunately, so far no one has paid any attention. Vince Yates earned the nickname “Invincible Vince” because of his reputation for letting absolutely nothing stop him. But Vince is about to face his biggest challenge yet: his past has just caught up with him. His father, mother, and the sister he didn’t know he had, show up in Broken Wheel without warning. Vince has a lot of people to take care of, and Tina doesn’t approve of how he’s handling any of them. But with almost all the other men in town married off, Vince finds himself stuck with feisty Tina over and over again. Of course, Tina is the prettiest woman he’s ever seen, so if he could just get her to give up her causes, he might go ahead and propose. But he’s got one more surprise coming his way: Tina’s picketing at the saloon has revealed a dark secret that could put everyone Vince loves in danger. (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing Group])

Truth Be Told by Carol Cox When Amelia Wagner takes over her father’s newspaper in 1893 Granite Springs, Arizona, she vows to carry on the paper’s commitment to reporting only the truth. But Amelia soon learns that even the truth can have serious consequences. Her father’s revealing articles about the Great Western Investment Company have caught the attention of the wrong people, and pressure mounts for Amelia to retract her father’s statements. Determined to find out the real story, Amelia begins her own investigation. She’s joined by Benjamin Stone, a Great Western employee who’s been assigned to keep tabs on her. What they uncover stuns them both–and has far-reaching implications for not only Ben and Amelia but all of Granite Springs. Can they reveal the truth before the enemy finds a way to silence them for good? (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing Group])

A Place in His Heart by Rebecca DeMarino — Anglican Mary Langton longs to marry for love. Puritan Barnabas Horton is still grieves the loss of his beloved wife and needs only a mother for his two young sons. And yet these two very different people with very different expectations will take a leap of faith, wed, and then embark on a life-changing journey across the ocean to the New World. Along the way, each must learn to live in harmony, to wait on God, and to recognize true love where they least expect to find it. (Historical Romance from Revell [Baker Publishing Group])

Ozark Reunion by Helen Gray — In the aftermath of the Great Depression, it’s time for Riley to start over. And the first step is winning the trust of his Missouri hometown. But it isn’t easy for a man with a troubled past. Especially when his first love, Jolene Delaney, seems to believe that the new rumors about him are true. After Riley broke her heart, Jolene threw herself into teaching school and caring for her father and little sister. But she knows something is missing from her life. Especially when she comes face-to-face with Riley again. Can he convince Jolene that he’s truly a changed man? Or will he succumb to old temptations and destroy her faith in him once again? (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Full Steam Ahead by Karen Witemeyer — Nicole Renard returns home to Galveston, Texas, to find her father deathly ill. Though she loves him, Nicole’s father has always focused on what she’s not. Not male. Not married. Not able to run Renard Shipping. Vowing to find a suitable husband to give her father the heir he desires before it’s too late, Nicole sets out with the Renard family’s greatest treasure as her dowry: the highly coveted Lafitte Dagger. But her father’s rivals come after the dagger, forcing a change in Nicole’s plans. After a boiler explosion aboard the Louisiana nearly took his life, Darius Thornton has been a man obsessed. He will do anything to stop even one more steamship disaster. Even if it means letting a female secretary into his secluded world. Nicole is determined not to let her odd employer scare her off with his explosive experiments, yet when respect and mutual attraction grow between them, a new fear arises. How can she acquire an heir for her father when her heart belongs to another? And when her father’s rivals discover her hiding place, will she have to choose between that love and her family’s legacy? (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing Group])

Historical Women’s Fiction:

Yankee In Atlanta by Jocelyn Green — When soldier Caitlin McKae woke up in Atlanta after being wounded in battle, the Georgian doctor who treated her believed Caitlin’s only secret was that she had been fighting for the Confederacy disguised as a man. In order to avoid arrest or worse, Caitlin hides her true identity and makes a new life for herself in Atlanta. Trained as a teacher, she accepts a job as a governess to the daughter of Noah Becker, a German immigrant lawyer, who enlists with the Rebel army. Though starvation rules, and Sherman’s troops edge closer to Atlanta, rages, she will not run again. Will honor dictate that Caitlin and Noah follow the rules, or love demand that they break them? (Historical Women’s Fiction from River North [Moody Publishers])

Mystery:

Blind Trust by Sandra Orchard — Kate Adams had no idea she was carrying counterfeit money, and she can’t believe that it came from her sweet neighbor. Or that it lands her in the middle of another one of Detective Tom Parker’s investigations. Determined to prove her neighbor’s innocence, Kate stumbles into a pit of intrigue that is far deeper than a two-bit counterfeit operation-and strikes too close to home for comfort. As family secrets come to light, her world-and her budding romance with Tom-begin to crumble. To Kate, it’s clear that she won’t be safe until she uncovers all of Port Aster’s secrets. But is it too late for her and Tom? (Mystery from Revell [Baker Publishing Group])

Romantic Suspense:

Moon over Maalaea Bay by H. L. Wegley — They expected the honeymoon of their dreams. What they got was a nightmare wrapped in revenge and kidnapping. (Romantic Suspense from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])

Suspense:

Sky Zone by Creston Mapes — Jack Crittendon is expecting a mindless night on the job at Festival Arena, but when Homeland Security picks up intel about a potential terrorist threat, Jack is thrust into a life-or-death battle to save himself-and the lives of thousands of innocent people. (Suspense from David C. Cook)

April 2014 New Releases

03 Thursday Apr 2014

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More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Contemporary Romance:

A Plain Man by Mary Ellis — When a man returns to Amish ways after years apart, rigid district rules, a judgmental father, and his own pride conspire to separate him from the woman he loves. Josie Yoder was just a girl when he left. All grown up now, she gives Caleb hope for the future and reminds him that while his faith may have wavered, God never left his side. But will past mistakes end up destroying their fledgling romance before it really has a chance to begin? (Contemporary Romance from Harvest House Publishers)

A Broken Kind of Beautiful by Katie Ganshert — After ten years in the fashion industry, twenty-four year old model Ivy Clark has learned a sacred truth-appearance is everything. When it starts to unravel, she’ll do anything to hold on. Even if that means moving to the quaint island town of Greenbrier, South Carolina, to be the new face of her stepmother’s bridal wear line-an irony too rich for words, since Ivy is far from the pure bride in white. If only her tenuous future didn’t rest in the hands of Davis Knight, her mysterious new photographer. Not only did he walk away from the kind of success Ivy longs for to work maintenance at a local church, he treats her differently than any man ever has. Is it possible that God sees her-a woman stained and broken by the world-yet wants her still? (Contemporary Romance from Waterbrook/Multnomah [Random House])

Rescued by the Firefighter by Gail Gaymer Martin — A firefighter who has saved many lives except his own meets a woman with a surprising secret who could save him if she would allow him to save her first. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Unexpected Wedding by Carla Rossi — In a wheelchair since a fall in college, Rocky Lionakis plays guitar and shares his testimony every week with the campers at Towering Pines summer church camp. At peace with his chair, he has settled into a boring but successful career in technology…but then stunning camp counselor, Gia Rinaldi, enters his life and turns it upside down. Giavanna Rinaldi, with a trail of bad choices in her wake, has finally grown up and found her niche as a student of Christian child psychology. She returns to Camp Towering Pines where she’s worked since high school, but unsettling dreams and an unexplained illness lead her to a harrowing discovery. (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])

Rodeo Song by Shannon Taylor Vannatter — Jenna Wentworth found the man of her dreams. But when silken-voiced Garrett Steele set out for stardom, he left Jenna-and his cowboy past-far behind. A chance encounter at one of his concerts propels him back into Jenna’s life. Once upon a time, Garrett vowed he’d be a success, no matter what. But that path shattered his soul. His reunion with Jenna makes him long for things he once took for granted. Now he must show her that he’s found what he was looking for all along…right here in his hometown. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Historical Romance:

For Such a Time by Kate Breslin — A young, bitter, Jewess-in-hiding must send her own people to Auschwitz in order to survive, or put her trust in God by giving her heart to the man responsible for their doom. (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker])

Rainy Day Dreams by Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith — When the Burgert family moves to Seattle in 1852, Kathryn is convinced her father has destroyed her life. The backwoods settlement offers none of the comforts and culture she loves in San Francisco. She cares nothing for the new sawmill the townsfolk are so excited about. That is, until she meets Jason, a lumberjack with dreams for a bright future. As she comes to know Jason, Kathryn can’t help catching his vision. But the future they hope for is anything but secure. There are some who see Seattle as a threat and will stop at nothing to make sure the sawmill fails. A gripping story of love, tenderness, and survival in the rugged Pacific Northwest. (Historical Romance from Harvest House Publishers)

The Preacher’s Bride Claim by Laurie Kingery — For the Thornton brothers, the Oklahoma Land Rush is the perfect opportunity to finally put down some roots. A new start, a new community-what more could preacher Elijah Thornton need. Not a wife-not after losing his fiancée. But something draws him to the pretty nurse whose eyes are clouded by trouble. (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Sincerely Yours by Ann Shorey, Laurie Alice Eakes, Amanda Cabot, and Jane Kirkpatrick — Four young women find their lives altered after each receives a letter that sets her on a new path toward a changed life–and perhaps lifelong love. From a Hudson River steamboat to a lush drawing room, from a carousel carver’s workshop to a remote and controversial hospital, readers will love being swept into the lives of four young women who are making their way in the world and finding love where they least expect it. (Historical Romance from Revell [Baker Publishing Group])

The Pelican Bride by Beth White — It is 1704 when Genevieve Gaillain and her sister board a French ship headed for the Louisiana colony as mail-order brides. Genevieve knows life won’t be easy, but at least here she can establish a home and family without fear of beheading. But when she falls in love with Tristan Lanier, an expatriate cartographer whose courageous stand for fair treatment of native peoples has made him decidedly unpopular in the young colony, Genevieve realizes that even in this land of liberty one is not guaranteed peace. (Historical Romance from Revell [Baker PublishingGroup])

Circle of Spies by Roseanna M. White— Baltimore, 1865–Marietta Hughes never wanted to be a spy…but espionage is thrust upon her as the War Between the States rolls on. Unbeknownst to her, a Confederate secret society bent on destroying the Union she loves has been meeting in her basement. When she discovers the plots and papers covering her walls, she feels as though she is losing her world. Slade Osborne, an undercover Pinkerton agent, is determined to do whatever is necessary to help end the conflict between the North and the South. When he infiltrates this secret cell, it isn’t just their inner workings that baffle him–it’s the beautiful woman who seems to be a puppet for the new leader and yet…somehow not an enemy of the Union. Can he trust her? (Historical Romance from Harvest House Publishers)

Contemporary:

Dynamo by Eleanor Gustafson — Jeth Cavenaugh trains both show jumpers and the 5-gaited stallion Dynamo, but God, in extraordinary ways, is training Jeth-for what? (Contemporary from Whitaker House)

Just 18 Summers by Rene Gutteridge and Michelle Cox — After the tragic death of Butch Browning’s wife, Jenny, four families begin to realize how precious-and fleeting-their time together is. Each is at a different stage in life: Butch is facing single parenthood. The O’Reillys are expecting their first child. The Andersons are approaching an empty nest, and the Buckleys are so focused on providing their children with everything that they’ve forgotten what they truly need. With just eighteen summers before their children are grown, how do they make the most of that time when life so often gets in the way? (Contemporary from Harbourlight Books [Pelican])

The Women of Valley View: Pam by Sharon Srock — Pam’s divorce broke her heart. The cruelty of her ex-husband broke her spirit. A bottle of sleeping pills almost took her life. Four years later the scars of Alan Archer’s emotional abuse are beginning to fade under the love of her new husband. When Alan returns to Garfield, Pam must learn that buried secrets and carefully cultivated indifference do not equal forgiveness. (Contemporary from Harbourlight Books [Pelican])

Medical Thriller:

Critical Condition by Richard L. Mabry M.D. — It was supposed to be a quiet dinner party with her colleagues. Not the scene of a murder. Dr. Frasier couldn’t save the gunshot victim on her front lawn. Now she’s fighting for her own life. With a sister suffering from addiction, and her own fear of commitment to her “almost-fiancé” causing guilt, she turns to her pastor-father for help, only to learn he’s just been diagnosed with leukemia. Shannon thought it couldn’t get any worse. Then the late-night, threatening phone calls begin, the rough voice asking, “What did he say before he died?” With everything around her in a critical state, simply staying alive will require all the resources and focus Shannon has. (Thriller/Suspense from HarperCollins [Thomas Nelson & Zondervan])

Romantic Suspense:

Perilous Waters by Sandra Orchard — On an Alaskan cruise, an undercover FBI agent, seeking evidence of art crimes, befriends an heiress trying to convince her twin to sell their gallery, except an assassin has different plans. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

March 2014 Writing Contests

04 Tuesday Mar 2014

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FOR UNPUBLISHED AUTHORS:

Daphne du Maurier Award
For Excellence in Mystery/Suspense

The contest is open to any writer who has never been contracted in book-length fiction (40,000 words or more) from any publisher.

The contest is also open to any author not published in the last three years and never in mystery suspense (please see the rules for eligibility).

Opened Jan. 15. Deadline March 15.

For more info: Daphne du Maurier Award

Touch of Magic
The contest is open to writers not published in book-length fiction during the past five years. For the purposes of this contest, “book-length fiction” is defined as 40,000 words or more and “published” means having fully executed a contract with an RWA-recognized publisher. Self-publishing does not disqualify the entrant.

Deadline March 15.

For more info: Touch of Magic

The Royal Ascot
The Royal Ascot is the only RWA chapter contest for unpublished writers devoted exclusively to the Regency, broadly defined for the purpose of the contest as between 1780 and 1840 and set within the United Kingdom.

Open to unpublished authors and published writers seeking representation and/or a publisher.

Opened Feb. 21. Deadline April 1.

For more info: The Royal Ascot Contest

Fool For Love
All work must be the author’s original work that has never been published in any form ever, and has not been contracted for publication prior to the entry deadline of April 1, 2014.

All categories, except the Published Author category, are open to entrants who have not published and not contracted in any novel-length fiction within the past three (3) years or as of April 1, 2011.

Authors who have published or contracted for novel-length fiction within the past three years, including e-books or books published with recognized and non-recognized RWA publishers are considered published and are eligible for the Published Author category only and no other categories.

Opened Feb. 14. Deadline April 1.

For more info: Fool For Love Contest

FOR PUBLISHED AUTHORS:

2014 Carol Awards
The Carol Awards are ACFW’s recognition for the best Christian fiction published by traditional publishing houses in the previous calendar year.

Entry must be a work of original fictional narrative prose that is offered for sale to the general public through print or digital media. The author must not participate financially in the production or distribution of the work. The novel must be written from a Christian worldview in any Christian fiction genre through a publisher on ACFW’s Recognized Publishers list* and for which the author did not participate financially in the production or distribution (did not enter into a subsidy contract of any kind) and was/is paid royalties.

Authors or publishers of e-book entries can submit 5 copies of a standard bound book with cover art and copyright page or 5 copies spiral bound. No electronic copies will be accepted.

Opened Jan. 2. Deadline March 15.

For more info: 2014 Carol Awards

Daphne du Maurier Award
The contest is open to those published in book-length fiction. There is no limit to the number of entries per author or per category, but each book may only be entered in one category and must have a 2013 copyright or a 2012 copyright and 2013 first publish date (see rules for details). Membership in Romance Writers of America and/or MRSRWA (KOD) is not required.

Opened Jan. 15. Deadline March 15th.

For more info: Daphne du Maurier Award

2014 National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award
The first annual National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award celebrates published romance novels and novellas and is judged by romance readers. Open for books published in 2013.

Opened March 1. Deadline April 1.

For more info: 2014 National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award

2014 Genesis Contest
The Genesis Contest is the ACFW contest for unpublished Christian fiction writers. Genesis has a number of categories/genres to enter, the opportunity for unbiased feedback on writers’ work by published authors and experienced judges, and the chance for the category finalists to have their work read by Christian publishing house editors and literary agents. ACFW has been pleased to see many previous category winners and finalists move further in their writing careers to become published authors.

Opened Jan. 2. Deadline March 15.

For more info: Genesis Contest

… Additional Amazing Writing Opportunities

Chicken Soup for the Soul
We’re Looking for Stories!

We have many Chicken Soup for the Soul® books in development and are adding new titles all of the time. We are always looking for new stories and poems and hope you have some for us to consider. Take a look at the list of our future book topics to see if you have a story or poem on a subject we are looking for and then please submit it to us.

For more info: Chicken Soup for the Soul

March 2014 New Releases

04 Tuesday Mar 2014

Posted by in News & Updates, Writing Christian Fiction

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More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Contemporary Romance:

Wild Mint Tea by Valerie Comer — A local-foods chef caters events to keep her farm, but the first wedding comes with a ruggedly handsome brother-of-the-bride with no interest in settling to one place. (Contemporary Romance from Choose Now Publishing)

Dancing with Fireflies by Denise Hunter — Jade McKinley felt like a weed in a rose garden growing up in Chapel Springs. When she left, she thought she’d never look back. But now, pregnant, alone, and broke, she has no other choice but to return. The mayor of Chapel Springs, Daniel Dawson, has been an honorary member of the McKinley family for years. While his own home life was almost non-existent, Daniel fit right into the boisterous McKinley family. He’s loved Jade for years, but she always saw him as a big brother. Now that she’s back, his feelings are stronger than ever. Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson & Zondervan])

Love Redeemed by Kelly Irvin — Phoebe Christner is thrilled when the families of her close-knit Amish community decide to spend a week at the lake. And it doesn’t hurt that Michael Daugherty will be coming along. They’ll find ways to spend time together–she’s certain of it–and their romance will have time to blossom. But when tragedy strikes, Phoebe and Michael are torn apart by their pain and the knowledge of their guilt. (Contemporary Romance from Harvest House Publishers)

An Amish Garden by Beth Wiseman, Vannetta Chapman, Kathleen Fuller, and Tricia Goyer — A collection of charming Amish stories centered around the theme of gardening by four of this genre’s most popular authors. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson & Zondervan])

Historical Romance:

Healer of Carthage by Lynne Gentry — A modern-day doctor gets trapped in third-century Carthage, Rome, where she uncovers buried secrets, confronts Christian persecution, and battles a deadly epidemic to save the man she loves. Historical Romance from Howard [Simon & Schuster])

Tide and Tempest by Elizabeth Ludwig — Two years ago, her fiancé perished during their voyage to America. Now she discovers it may have been murder… (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker] Publishing)

Vow Unbroken by Caryl McAdoo— Susannah Baylor, a spunky young widow with a young daughter and teenage nephew in her care, raises cotton on a small farm in northeast Texas. When a local buyer reneges on his offer to purchase her crop, she finds herself with only one option: cart her cotton to market in Jefferson herself. Sue employs Henry Buckmeyer to accompany her and the children. Facing the elements and other dangers, the foursome starts out with the common goal of getting their goods to market. (Historical Romance from Howard [Simon & Schuster])

The Guardian’s Promise by Christina Rich — An evil queen and her royal guards will stop at nothing to find – and kill – the rightful heir to the throne of Judah. When their pursuit leads them to Mira’s village, only her father’s bond servant, Ari, a man shrouded in secrets, can keep Mira safe. (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Contemporary:

Because of the Rain by Deborah Raney — One unimaginable night changes a couple’s lives forever. Their love for God and for each other is put to the ultimate test as they confront heart-wrenching decisions. (Contemporary from Greenbrier Books)

The Shepherd’s Song by Betsy Duffey and Laurie Myers– Psalm 23, written on a piece of paper, travels around the world changing the lives of twelve people. (Contemporary from Howard [Simon & Schuster])

Faith Departed by Elizabeth Maddrey — Starting a family was supposed to be easy. Twin sisters June and July have never encountered an obstacle they couldn’t overcome. Married just after graduating college, the girls and their husbands remained a close-knit group. Now settled and successful, the next logical step is children. But as the couples struggle to conceive, each must reconcile the goodness of God with their present suffering. Will their faith be strong enough to triumph in the midst of trial? (Contemporary Women’s Fiction from HopeSprings)

Romantic Suspense:

Beneath a Navajo Moon by Lisa Carter — What happens when love and danger collide deep in the heart of the Navajo Nation? (Romantic Suspense from Abingdon Press)

Stolen Memories by Liz Johnson — Attacked and left for dead, “Julie Thomas” has amnesia, and doesn’t know why anyone would want to hurt her. But when surveillance video of that night shows Julie holding a baby—a baby nowhere to be found—she panics. Is the child hers? Where is she now? With no answers and no place to go, Julie accepts Detective Zach Jones’s offer to help her solve both mysteries. The handsome, loyal cop makes her feel safe. But someone is trying very hard to make sure her memories stay buried forever. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Dark Tide by Susan Sleeman — When the woman Derrick Justice has never stopped loving and the baby he’s come to adore are in a killer’s crosshairs, can Derrick trap the cold-blooded murderer before he strikes again? (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Historical Mystery:

Death by the Book by Julianna Deering — Drew Farthering is determined to convince his American sweetheart Madeline Parker to accept his marriage proposal and stay on at his English country estate, but a series of baffling murders, each with a cryptic clue pinned into the body of the victim, might keep him from doing so . . . permanently. (Historical Mystery from Bethany House [Baker] Publishing)

Mystery:

Final Trimester by Dianna T. Benson — Paramedic Jodi Duncan recognizes the work of a serial killer before Myrtle Beach PD even suspects a connection between the deaths of two pregnant women. Despite the vast differences in the two cases, Jodi urges Detective Nate Quigley to think outside the box. After digging deep into the separate investigations, Nate finds no evidence to support a serial killer theory, and he warns Jodi to back off police business, which only fuels her obsession with the cases. (Medical Mystery from Ellechor Publishing House)

Murder Simply Brewed by Vannetta Chapman — When the coffee shop manager is murdered in Middlebury’s Amish Artisan Village, two women from different walks of life must join together to solve the mystery and in the process renew their faith in God’s promises. (Cozy Mystery from Zondervan)

Red Gold by Sandy Nadeau — When someone tries to sabotage Mandy Phillips’ Colorado guest ranch, she risks everything to protect her guests and the land she loves. (Mystery from Harbourlight Books [Pelican])

ACFW Foundation – Online Auction Update (Correction added)

19 Wednesday Feb 2014

Posted by in Fiction, News & Updates, Writing Christian Fiction, Writing Inspirational Fiction

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QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS POST CAN BE DIRECTED TO ACFW Foundation Board Member LACY WILLIAMS AT lacyjwilliams@gmail.com.

Correction – *from Book Fun Magazine – a full page ad *and* ad creation valued at $400 for a total value of $1900.

We’re making great progress on organizing the spring online auction benefitting the ACFW Foundation – the 501(c)3 that is responsible for the scholarships that send members with financial hardship to conference.

Items recently added:

*Romance-ology Love Scene Critique from our own Julie Lessman

*Live Free Write Free 1-on-1 Mentoring session (30 minutes) with Allen Arnold

*Full page ad in Book Fun Magazine from The Book Club Network, including ad creation – a $400 value

And more.

*And* we have news! Family Fiction is allowing us a run a spot in one of their online newsletters. Because of this, we’d like to open a part of the online auction for READER PRIZES.

So we need those kind of donations from our published authors. Here’s some ideas:

*book basket (you ship it to the winner)

*name a character after the winning bidder

*multi-author book basket – why not get together with your chapter-mates or crit partners and offer a basket?

*”meet the author” online Skype chat for 30 minutes with winning bidder

Or anything you think a reader would be interested in bidding on. Remember it is for a great cause, to send more scholarship recipients to conference.

I NEED YOUR DONATION SUMMARIES BY FEBRUARY 28. Enter them here:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1kQUAiMf6seKzGmn5Oo__nw9j9mURC6v3xrZAnpAl0RA/viewform

The auction will run approximately March 15 – 31 and you will be expected to ship your prize shortly after that.

Thanks for considering giving back to ACFW in this way!

Latest Happenings Around ACFW

12 Wednesday Feb 2014

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There are several things going on around ACFW, so here’s a brief re-cap.

1. Contests: Both the Genesis Contest and Carol Awards are open for entries. Genesis is for unpublished writers with a completed manuscript, while the Carol Awards is for those who’ve had a book published in 2013 by a publisher on ACFW’s Recognized Publisher List. Entries open until March 15.

Details can be found at http://www.acfw.com/contests

2. Mentor of the Year: Nominations for ACFW’s Mentor of the Year are now
being accepted. Go to http://www.acfw.com and log-in with your user name and password, and you’ll be taken to the member home page, where you’ll see the link. Submissions accepted through February 28th. Or go directly to: http://www.acfw.com/members/mentor_2014

3. Conference Scholarships: Applications are being accepted to receive a scholarship to the 2014 ACFW conference in St. Louis, September 25-27. Questions can be directed to debraney at mac.com. The application can be found at: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dDNzbXBYSW5Rb2NrdkI4ZWRTT19mU2c6MA#gid=0

4. Finally, don’t miss our webinar on February 20, 2014 at 8 pm Eastern/5
pm Pacific, Henry McLaughlin will present an ACFW webinar entitled: The Voice in Your Head: Just Because You’re Hearing Voices Doesn’t Mean You’re Not Normal. To register, go to: http://www.anymeeting.com/PIID=EA52DB87864C3A Space is limited.

Have a great week, Fiction With Faithers!

February 2014 New Releases!

05 Wednesday Feb 2014

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More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Contemporary Romance:

Falling for the Farmer by Narelle Atkins — Kate Lawson is a runaway bride. And she’s incredibly grateful when Jack Bradley offers her a job on his apple farm. Working side by side in the orchards with her best friend’s brother seems like the perfect way to get over her disastrous engagement. Until Kate finds herself falling hard for the handsome farmer. (Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents [Harlequin])

Protecting the Widow’s Heart by Lorraine Beatty — Stranded in a lakeside cabin, widow Ginger Sloan and her son must accept help from the owner, a wounded cop who is looking for peace and quiet, not love. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Ryan’s Father by June Foster — His greatest desire is to please God, but his next greatest desire threatens to unhinge him. (Contemporary Romance from WhiteFire Publishing)

Romance:

Princess Ever After by Rachel Hauck — Regina Beswick never dreamed of faraway places. She’s happy with her life as a classic car mechanic and owner of a restoration shop. But an unexpected visitor and the discovery of a fairytale, drawn by her great-grandma, causes Regina to wonder if she might be destined for something more. (Romance from Zondervan)

Londonderry Dreaming by Christine Lindsay — Can an artist who speaks best through her paintings, and a music therapist who speaks best through his music, ever find the words to talk about their past that tore them apart? (Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])

Historical Romance:

Love’s Sweet Beginning by Ann Shorey — Following the Civil War, a suitor from Cassie Haddon’s privileged past threatens her budding attraction to Jacob West, a local business owner. (Historical Romance from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

Love Finds Faith by Martha Rogers— Micah is the prodigal forced into a role he doesn’t want, but the faith of a crippled young woman gives him hope for the future. (Historical Romance from Realms [Charisma Media])

The Cowboy Takes a Wife by Davalynn Spencer — When Annie Whitaker and her merchant father set out for Cañon City and the Pikes-Peak-or-Bust gold rush, Annie mines much greater wealth than gold from the heart of a runaway preacher. (Historical Romance from Heartsong Presents [Harlequin])

South Carolina Brides by Vickie McDonough — Visit historic South Carolina where secrets disrupt the lives of three women. A cousin’s quest takes a drastic turn when she falls for the man she thought she despised. A young woman’s sheltered world crumbles after she finds a badly beaten stranger on a nearby plantation. And a sister’s heart is torn when the neighbor who killed her brother in a duel returns home a changed man. Between betrayal and lies, is there room for love? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Jenny’s Choice by Patrick E. Craig — A touching story of devotion and triumph over adversity. (Historical Romance from Harvest House Publishers)

Historical:

The Thief by Stephanie Landsem — In this evocative follow-up to The Well, a Roman centurion longing for peace and a Jewish woman hiding a deadly secret witness a miracle that transforms their lives and leads them to the foot of the cross. (Historical from Howard [Simon & Schuster])

The Widow’s Suitor by Rose Ross Zediker — Cora Anderson isn’t looking for love. The young widow is just trying to make a life on the prairie for herself and her newborn son. When handsome newcomer Luke Dow shows up at her cabin door, she soon relies on the man’s help with her homestead…and dares to dream of the future. Luke came to the small South Dakota town to build a hotel and make his fortune. But he never expected to care for anyone, let alone the beautiful Cora and her baby boy. When Cora’s land claim is challenged by a neighbor, Luke will do all he can to protect her and her home-and claim her heart. (Historical from Heartsong Presents [Harlequin])

Contemporary:

Permanent Resident at the Purse Table by Keisha Bass — Plus-sized woman seeks validation in small-minded man. (Contemporary from Urban Christian)

A Stillness of Chimes by Meg Moseley — Ghost sightings, rumors, family secrets, and a lingering unrequited love-and that’s just the beginning of teacher Laura Gantt’s summer vacation. (Contemporary from Waterbrook/Multnomah [Random House])

Wildwood Creek by Lisa Wingate — 150 years ago, the citizens of Wildwood Creek mysteriously disappeared. Now a reenactment docudrama seeks to recreate the events surrounding Wildwood’s demise. But when Allie Kirkland finds herself in the position of Wildwood’s frontier schoolteacher, Bonnie Rose, will Bonnie’s tragic history repeat itself? (Contemporary from Bethany House [Baker] Publishing)

Romantic Suspense:

The Baby Rescue by Margaret Daley — Colton Phillips vows to keep his heart out of the job, but his unwanted attraction to Lisette lowers his guard. Now Lisette Sutton-and an innocent child-are in grave danger, and Colton will stop at nothing to save them. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

On the Pineapple Express by H.L. Wegley — How much is she willing to risk to save a group of girls from international human traffickers? (Romantic Suspense from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])

Contemporary Suspense:

Poison Town by Creston Mapes — Something sinister swirls in the air as popular suspense author Creston Mapes delivers the second enthralling tale in The Crittendon Files. Poison Town smolders with emotion, crackles with intrigue, burns with scandal. An edge-of-your-seat knockout. (Contemporary Suspense from David C. Cook)

Techno-Thriller Suspense:

Friend Me by John Faubion — A lonely wife and a frustrated husband create virtual online friends, trying to deal with the pressures of a marriage gone flat, and a high-pressure job. (Techno-Thriller Suspense from Howard [Simon & Schuster])

Medieval Fantasy:

Wayfarer by Janalyn Voigt — When an untried youth ascends to the high throne of Faeraven, his mistakes tear kingdoms apart and allow just one chance at redemption: he must find and humble himself before the man he banished. (Medieval Fantasy from Harbourlight Books [Pelican])

Biblical Fiction:

Rachel: A Novel by Jill Eileen Smith — Can true love overcome a legacy of betrayal? (Biblical Fiction from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

Young Adult:

Worth the Wait by Laura Jackson Ellie Lansing has a picture-perfect life with a close-knit family and the perfect boyfriend. But her world is suddenly knocked off center when her drool-worthy boyfriend cheats, and her always-has-it-together mother is diagnosed with cancer. Ellie doesn’t get it. She always does the right thing – doesn’t God owe her a happy life? Through her heartache, Ellie learns that sometimes what seems like the end is really just the beginning and that what God has for us is always worth the wait. (Young Adult from HopeSprings Books)

Contests are Open!

08 Wednesday Jan 2014

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Good morning, Fiction With Faithers!!!

Old Typewriter We’re excited to announce that the Genesis Contest (for unpublished writers) and the Carol Awards (for published authors) are now open and accepting entries!

You can find all of the details for both contests on ACFW’s contest page on the website at: http://www.acfw.com/contests

If you have any questions about either contest, please contact the Contest Coordinators:

Genesis Contest – Pam Meyers at genesis@acfw.com

Carol Awards – Casey Herringshaw at carolawards@acfw.com

PHOTO CREDIT – stock.xchng

January 2014 New Releases!

03 Friday Jan 2014

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More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Contemporary Romance:

Mommy Wanted by Renee Andrews –A Mother’s Hope Three years ago, Kate Wydell made a big mistake: she ran away, leaving her baby daughter behind. Now Kate’s back in the small Alabama town, desperate to make amends. But she’s afraid to reveal who she is. Especially since her new boss, a widowed father of young girls, is the kind of parent, the kind of person, Kate hopes to be. Mitch Gillespie sings lullabies and teaches his daughters how to be their best. With every passing day, Kate falls harder for him. But once Mitch knows her secret, will she lose him-and her deepest wish-forever? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

The Rancher’s Secret Son by Betsy St. Amant — When her troubled teenage son is sent to Camp Hope, Emma Shaver is thrilled and relieved. The therapy horse ranch in Broken Bend, Louisiana, is well-known for giving at-risk teens a new lease on life. There’s just one problem-it’s owned by her old high school sweetheart, Max Ringgold, who doesn’t know he’s her son’s father. Emma didn’t plan on facing her past to ensure her son’s future. But when old feelings for Max resurface, Emma must decide if she will reveal the truth to him and restore her family for good. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Historical Romance:

With Autumn’s Return by Amanda Cabot –An idealistic lady doctor and an opinionated attorney find love and adventure in nineteenth century Cheyenne, WY. (Historical Romance from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

A Match Made in Texas by Mary Connealy, Karen Witemeyer, Carol Cox, Regina Jennings— In the small town of Dry Gulch, Texas, a good-hearted busybody just can’t keep herself from surreptitiously trying to match up women in dire straits with men of good character she hopes can help them. How is she to know she’s also giving each couple a little nudge toward love? (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker] Publishing)

The Quaker and the Rebel by Mary Ellis — When a conductor on the Underground Railroad crosses paths with a Rebel Ranger, everyone expected sparks to fly, but sometimes love is more powerful than any army…North or South. (Historical Romance from Harvest House Publishers)

Shadowed by Grace: A Story of Monuments Men by Cara Putman — Desperate to save her dying mother, Rachel accepts her newspaper’s assignment to travel to Italy to capture images dangerously close to the front lines of WWII. Her real motive – to find the father she never knew — an artist she hopes can offer the comfort and support both she and her mother need to survive. It’s an unlikely situation for love and faith to flourish, but soon Rachel not only finds herself, but also her long-lost earthly father, and ultimately, the man her Heavenly father created to cherish and provide for her. (Historical Romance from B&H Publishing)

Romantic Suspense:

Crossfire (Love Inspired Suspense) by Jodie Bailey — After he couldn’t save her brother, army first sergeant Josh Walker isn’t about to let anything happen to Andrea Donovan. Josh may have saved her from one attack, but drug smugglers are desperate to get information about one of Andrea’s patients-a patient who’s disappeared without a trace. Despite the danger, the beautiful counselor refuses to hand over confidential files. Now Josh and Andrea have no choice but to battle on for their lives-and their love-or they’ll be the latest casualty to get caught in the crossfire. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

No One to Trust by Lynette Eason — Summer Abernathy wakes up one morning to find her husband missing, three men in her home intent on finding him, and the life she’s been living based on a lie. (Romantic Suspense from Revell – A division of Baker Publishing Group)

Beowulf: Explosives Detection Dog by Ronie Kendig — Former Navy handler Timbrel Hogan has more attitude than her Explosives Detection Dog, Beowulf, but she’s a tough woman who gets the job done. Green Beret Tony “Candyman” VanAllen likes a challenge and convincing the hard-hitting handler they belong together might just get him killed. When tragedy strikes and Tony’s career is jeopardized, Timbrel must re-evaluate her life and priorities-and fast because a terrorist plots to unleash a weapon of mass destruction on American soil. Can Timbrel and Beowulf track the chemicals in time? Will Tony surrender everything to save the woman nobody wants to love-except him? (Romantic Suspense from Barbour Publishing)

Frame-Up by Jill Elizabeth Nelson — When a pair of murders link them as prime suspects, a single mom and a reformed bad boy must team up to prove their innocence before they become the killer’s next victims. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Upcoming ACFW Contests!

30 Monday Dec 2013

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Hello Fiction with Faithers!

Below are notes from the coordinators of the Carol Awards (a contest for published authors) and the Genesis Contest (a contest for unpublished writers).

If you have questions about these contests, please contact the appropriate contest coordinator below.

THE CAROL AWARDS:

Did you have a novel or novella traditional published by one of ACFW’s Recognized Publishers in 2013? On January 2, 2014, ACFW’s Carol Award program opens to honor the best of Christian fiction published in the previous calendar year. Entry deadline is March 15th, so don’t delay getting your book entered. Check out the guidelines and criteria and take advantage of this opportunity to have your novel noticed by readers and the publishing industry. Complete details here: http://www.acfw.com/carol

Casey Herringshaw
ACFW Carol Awards Coordinator
carolawards@acfw.com

THE GENESIS CONTEST:

Will you hit the road running in 2014 in regard to your writing? On January 2, 2014, ACFW’s Genesis Contest is open for entries. If you have a completed manuscript for an unpublished novel or novella that meets the criteria explained on the Genesis pages of the ACFW website—or if you will have it completed before the entry cutoff date of March 15, 2014—make plans now to:

1. Study the criteria, guidelines, and formatting instructions for the Genesis Contest http://www.acfw.com/genesis.

2. Devote yourself to getting your manuscript and synopsis in the best form possible.

3. Conquer any hesitation. The experience of submitting to the Genesis Contest is itself an education, in addition to value feedback from contest judges committed to helping you advance in your career as a Christian fiction author.

Dozens of former Genesis finalists and winners view the Genesis experience as a vital part of their journey to publication. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow and to discover if your story resonates with readers.

Important information about the Genesis is available on the Genesis pages of the website. http://www.acfw.com/genesis

Blessings,

Pam Meyers
Genesis Head Coordinator
genesis@acfw.com