Author Archives: Janet Sketchley

About Janet Sketchley

Janet Sketchley is an Atlantic Canadian writer whose Redemption’s Edge Christian suspense novels have each been finalists in The Word Awards. She's also the author of the devotional collection, A Year of Tenacity. Janet blogs about faith and books. She loves Jesus and her family, and enjoys reading, worship music, and tea. Fans of Christian suspense are invited to join her writing journey through her monthly newsletter: bit.ly/JanetSketchleyNews.

New Releases in Christian Fiction (July 2025)

July 2025 New Releases

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

Amish Romance:


Caleb’s Choice by Z Peabody — Caleb Jacobson, rancher, farmer, and a first-generation veterinarian, has always loved to care for animals. When he was given his choice to either stay in the small community and become a full-time farmer or have his “way about,” Caleb chooses the university, and in doing so, experiences a whole other world outside of his small community. Wanting to start his own practice in his hometown, he returns to the very small community that now shuns him and to the father who hates him. It’s true—sometimes you should never return home. When a college friend asks a favor, that he hire a new head cook, Caleb immediately agrees. But when Caleb walks out of his barn to meet the new employee, he quickly regrets the decision to hire the most beautiful woman he has ever laid eyes on. (Amish Romance from Z Peabody Publishing LLC)

Contemporary Romance:


Rendersella by Amy R Anguish — Ella dreams of her artwork on display in the famous Prince Gallery, but working for her stepmother leaves her eking out sporadic minutes to draw or paint. When her stepsister steals her drawing and claims it as her own, Ella fears she’s lost her chance. Chaz Prince wants more responsibility at his family’s gallery, but first he must prove he can handle it. Chaz talks his dad into a contest to bring in some new artists, sure this will be exactly what the gallery needs. When he stumbles across Ella’s piece, he not only wants the artwork, but wishes to know the artist too. At the gala to celebrate the contest winners, Ella is determined to let them know the artwork is hers, but time is against her. And where did her shoe end up? (Contemporary Romance from Scrivenings Press)


A Family on His Doorstep by Alena Auguste — Unwed, unemployed and pregnant, Rebecca Young is in desperate need of a job. But finding work seems impossible. So when her late ex-boyfriend’s cousin Walker Greystone offers her room and board, and help getting a part-time job at the library he’s renovating in Eden, Texas, she eagerly accepts. But as they work together on a project that could change both of their lives, their feelings for one another deepen. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])


If I Fall for You by Myra Johnson — She’s a grieving widow. He’s a rancher with too much on his shoulders. Neither expected to fall in love—until God weaves their broken stories together. But when the past resurfaces, will they choose healing or walk away? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)


Meet Me on Blueberry Hill by Lisa Jordan — On an island where everyone knows everyone, Asher Quinn is a mystery Sadie Hudson never meant to solve. Once a hopeful songwriter, Sadie’s dreams faded after her sister’s tragic death five years ago. Now jobless and adrift, she returns to Jonathon Island to care for her beloved grandma, Henrietta. Just as she begins to find solace in the island’s charm, a fallen tree damages her grandmother’s home, forcing Sadie to accept help from the gruff yet intriguing neighbor, Asher Quinn. Though he seems kind, Sadie can’t shake the feeling that he’s hiding something. Asher has his own demons, seeking solitude on the island to escape a past that haunts him-especially when he discovers he’s responsible for Sadie’s sister’s death. As they navigate their shared pain, can these two wounded souls find the courage to be honest and embrace love, or will their pasts keep them apart? (Contemporary Romance from Sunrise Publishing)


Plays By the Book by Carolyn Miller — Britta Johnson knows she’s ordinary, and she’s totally okay with that. She’s secure in God, in her purposes on the planet, and romance is something she finds between the pages of a book. She doesn’t need that in real life. So when a hockey player asks for advice on how to woo his long-distance girlfriend, she knows her heart is safe. Until it’s not. Mitchell Reilly might be feared on the ice-rink, but even he’s intimidated by this little ninja librarian who can whip teenagers into line with a single look. She knows her books too, and seems the perfect candidate to help him find some romantic fictional heroes he can impress his girlfriend with. Until she’s not. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Cozy Mystery:


Down in the Dumpster by Susan Page Davis and Page M Davis — You never know what you’ll find in a Dumpster. If Cassie had known the misadventures she’d get into on her stopgap job, she would have kept checking the help-wanted ads. With her crabby dispatcher hounding her, she collects the rubbish from a senior citizens’ complex in her garbage truck. When she empties the dumpster, a witness sees a body fall into her compactor. How will she explain this to Mac? And just as important, can rubbish and romance mix? (Cozy Mystery from Scrivenings Press)

Historical Romance:


An Uncharted Dream by Abbey Downey — Leonora Thornton always envisioned following in her father’s footsteps-exploring the world and chasing adventure. But after his tragic death, she can’t get past the debilitating fear…until she meets an explorer who promises to take her on his expedition to the very place where her father died. Marcus Turner knows a con man when he sees one, and after years of hiding his family’s shameful financial situation, he won’t let anyone he cares about be swindled again. Especially not Leonora, his longtime best friend and the woman he secretly loves. Joining the expedition, Marcus embarks on a mission to protect Leonora from the swindler, no matter the cost. When betrayal leaves them stranded far from their destination, Leonora and Marcus must determine if they can rely on God-or each other. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)


The Neighbor and the Gifts by Danielle Grandinetti — When Manitowish Waters librarian Olivia “Ollie” Larson finds a package on the library steps, she expects the children’s books she ordered, not a taxidermied partridge. By the fourth gift from her unknown and unwelcome True Love, disappearing to her grandfather’s isolated cabin in the Northwoods is the only way she can escape him. Deputy Titus Wilburn is happy to escort the lovely librarian to her grandfather’s house on his way to the neighboring Yarwood cabin. After all, he’s been smitten with her since they attended school together, and she needs his protection. However, the plan fails when Ollie’s uninvited suitor discovers her new location. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)


Uncharted Joy by Keely Brooke Keith — Daydreaming of running a restaurant sparks joy in Anna Cotter’s solemn heart while she works in her mother’s bakery with her two sisters. Her dream seems impossible until she inherits a charming cottage in the heart of Good Springs. Determined to make her restaurant a blessing to the village, Anna faces challenges from the elder council and a group of rebels who gather at her tables. New-in-town schoolteacher Caleb McIntosh spends his evenings researching the outsiders who have come to the Land in recent years. He uses the village’s new restaurant to work on his manuscript and is struck to the core by the proprietor’s confidence, beauty, and uncrackable demeanor. Anna can handle demanding customers and the council’s edicts, but when the village’s new know-it-all schoolteacher spreads his papers across her corner table every day, her resolve is tested. Yet, as Caleb introduces her to new ideas about the world, faith, and love, her carefully constructed walls begin to crumble. (Historical Romance from Edenbrooke Press)


A Lesson in Love by Linda Shenton Matchett — Born and raised in London, Isobel Turvine knows nothing about farming, but after most of the students in her school evacuate during Operation Pied Piper, she’s left with little to do. Then her friend Margery talks her into joining the Women’s Land Army, and she finds herself working the land at a manor home in Yorkshire that’s been converted to a boys’ school. A teacher at heart, she is drawn to the lads, but the handsome yet stiff-necked headmaster wants her to stick to farming. Left with an arm that barely works from the last “war to end all wars,” Gavin Emerson agrees to take on the job of headmaster when his school moves from London to Yorkshire, but he’s saddled with the quirky manor owner, bickering among his teachers, and a gaggle of Land Army girls who have turned the grounds into a farm. When the group’s blue-eyed, raven-haired leader nearly runs him down in a car, he admonishes her to stay in the fields, but they are thrown together at every turn. Can he trust her not to break his heart? (Historical Romance from Shortwave Press)


Unending Hope by Cindy Kay Stewart — April 1940. Nazi Germany carries out a devastating invasion, trapping Americans David Jensen and Natalie Thompson in Norway. Determined to use their medical skills to aid the Norwegians, David and Natalie embark on a harrowing journey to treat the injured and evade the Nazis. Natalie, a dedicated Red Cross worker, values deep relationships. Fearful of settling for a shallow marriage, she broke off her engagement to David several years before. But she never stopped loving him and spending time working together in Norway plays havoc with her heart. David, a charismatic and confident doctor with the Red Cross, desires to advance his career and rekindle his relationship with Natalie. Even though she once rejected him, he believes she is the only woman for him. But years of keeping others at arms’ length guarantees that winning Natalie back will be the biggest challenge he’s ever faced. (Historical Romance from Hope Springs Press)


Hannah’s Quest by Jodie Wolfe — Hannah Moore escapes the overbearing grip of her relatives and forges her own way in Shippensburg, PA, far away from their clutches. Despite Hannah’s sheer determination, she finds life on her own daunting as she loses job after job. Unsure where she fits in, Hannah wonders if she’ll ever be good enough. She feels as if God has forsaken her and questions if she will ever find a place to belong. The last thing she needs is an ignorant shop keeper constantly questioning her abilities and standing in her way. Hannah will take almost any position available so as not to return to the place of her upbringing. Luke Weiser has one goal in mind—finding a way to save his grandmother and restore her health. Only trouble is, she has other ideas about what is best for her. Gran longs to see Luke’s return to faith in the Lord, but he blames God for his grandmother’s sickness and the tragic events of his childhood. After the death of his mother, followed by his father’s abandonment, Luke refuses to trust his heart to anyone, and certainly not a wife. When Hannah keeps popping up in the hardware shop where he works, Luke is forced to think twice about his convictions. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Western Romance:


A Secret Heart by Wendy Klopfenstein — The last thing middle brother Ed McGraw wants is to be tangled up in a scheme to find a mail-order bride for his black-sheep brother. But that’s right where Ed finds himself…writing love letters and not signing his own name. Intrigued by the woman who writes back. Rebekah Edwards keeps her dreams to herself and finds contentment working for the local newspaper running matrimonial advertisements. Until the day a new ad appears—one written by the very rancher Rebekah has pined for her entire life. But just as she strikes up a correspondence, Rebekah finds herself drawn inexplicably to Ed McGraw—the wrong McGraw brother for her. What will happen when she finds out the author’s true identity? (Western Romance from Sunrise Publishing)

Crime Suspense:


Five Alive by Luana Ehrlich — Silas faces the most challenging case of his career at Discreet Corporate Security Services. He has seven days to rescue five oil workers kidnapped in a remote area of Saudi Arabia, and the future of the mission is in the hands of someone who betrayed him in the past. Can he trust her? (Crime Suspense, Independently Published)

Romantic Suspense:


Perilous Tides by Elizabeth Goddard — Three years after her mother’s suspicious death, forensic artist Jo Cattrel is in hiding, working at a storm-watching lodge along the Washington coast. When her father sends her a disturbing and cryptic message, Jo leaves the safety of the lodge to find him. But during the ferry crossing, Jo witnesses a murder–and becomes a target. More surprising to Jo than being in danger is the identity of the person who steps in to protect her–none other than her ex, former Green Beret Cole Mercer. Now a private investigator, Cole has been looking into her mother’s death. If he can just uncover the truth, maybe Jo can end her self-imposed captivity and the two of them can pick up the pieces and build a future together. As Cole and Jo search for answers, the past rushes in like a dangerous tide before the truth can be revealed. (Romantic Suspense from Revell)


Alaskan Police Protector by Megan Short — When a minivan slides off the road into an icy lake, Officer Samuel Miller narrowly rescues a woman and child from certain death. Only, Rachel Harding insists the crash is no accident—it’s eerily similar to how her sister and brother-in-law recently died. As the unexplained attacks escalate, Samuel is determined to protect Rachel and her orphaned niece at all costs. But when they make a shocking discovery, their investigation becomes even more dangerous, and survival may be impossible. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired Suspense [Harlequin])


Burning Truth by Kelly Underwood — Dani Barlow, disgraced journalist, has been given one last chance to redeem herself—follow a tip about a secret militia compound in the Alaskan wilderness and get the scoop that will put her back on top. But when her investigation takes a dangerous turn, she finds herself running for her life. Dani’s only hope is the rugged hotshot firefighter who comes to her rescue. As danger closes in, she’ll have to trust this mountain man with her life… He’d risk everything to protect his home… Grizz has one goal: fight fires and protect the Alaskan forests he calls home. But when a reckless, albeit beautiful, reporter trespasses on his territory, he finds himself in the middle of a terrorist plot bent on destroying everything he’s got left to care for. It seems he’ll have to do the very thing he swore he’d never do again: trust. (Romantic Suspense from Sunrise Publishing)

Supernatural Suspense:


Maranatha the Victory Battle by Blossom Turner — What if the greatest battle you’ll ever fight is the one you cannot see? Mara has faced the unthinkable—abuse, betrayal, and loss—but nothing can prepare her for the final battle ahead. As demons scheme in the shadows and angels stand guard, she must confront her deepest fears. With her marriage hanging by a thread, an abandoned child thrust into her arms, and a relentless enemy determined to destroy all she holds dear, Mara must decide: will she trust in God’s sovereignty, or will fear consume her? (Supernatural Suspense, Independently Published)

Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:


Timebender by Demi Griffin — A girl born in the Age of Augury but raised in the Age of Mythic, Everwyn grew up in the tranquil seclusion of Everlasting’s Ruins without fully understanding her identity. Time was irrelevant. Growing up in a secure and predictable environment, she enjoyed a warm family life that allowed her to mature peacefully. To her, her parents were just that – parents. Everwyn had no idea about her true lineage as the daughter of the Realm Caster and Librarian. Building an unexpected friendship with a tracker, Everwyn’s limited world broadened. At the tender age of twelve epochs, she discovers she is a girl without a homeland, evading Time. Her once simple life took a complicated turn as destiny revealed itself. Betrayed and facing shattered dreams, Everwyn embarks on a winding path that leads her to unexpected places. (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy, Independently Published)

 

Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

Cassia’s Calling by Rachel Blanchard — King Peter seems like a man who cannot be changed. With her otherworldly ability shadowed by uncontrollable hurt, how will Cassia answer her heart’s call? (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy)

Love’s True Measure by Lori DeJong — As Hunter and Shannon navigate their growing bond, unexpected challenges force them to confront their fears and priorities. Both must either choose to trust God’s plan is far greater than their own, or risk losing the love of a lifetime. (Contemporary Romance)

Revealed Courage: A Journey Forged Through Fire by Eve M Harrell — The ruthlessness of the new world order is unlike anything he has ever seen. Can he protect his family from an apocalypse he has no control over? Will they have the courage to stand when the forging begins? (Young Adult)

Mothers of a Nation by Carlene Havel and Sharon Faucheux– Rachel, Leah, Bilhah, and Zilpah reveal their hearts as each tells her own story of joy and sorrow. Never realizing the historical significance of their roles, these four ordinary women became the mothers of a nation. (Historical Biblical)

The Puzzle Within by Gina Holder — They must confront their own failures and unravel the secrets hidden within themselves to rescue Bridgette … and survive a madman’s twisted game. Because one thing becomes clear: Enigma’s real target is much bigger — and far more personal. (Romantic Suspense)

The Garden down the Beach: A Novelette by Annette M Irby — Online followers, and Gramps, want to see Kamber and Shiloh spend time together, but each is focused on building their careers. Is there room for a relationship in all their planning? (Contemporary Romance)

Project Sentinel by Elle E. Kay — With lethal agents on her trail, Faith must unlock buried memories, rescue her kidnapped son and outwit Project Sentinel’s surveillance before the conspiracy that murdered her husband silences her for good. (Romantic Suspense)

Golden Horizon by Darlene Panzera — When a jealous miner blackmails Maggie and uses dynamite to trap Ben inside a collapsed river cave, Maggie is faced with an impossible choice. As the town rallies for a rescue, both Maggie and Ben must decide—what is truly more valuable, gold or love? (Historical Romance)

The Final Word by Laura Thomas — When aspiring author, Sophie Brooks, trades the vibrancy of Paris for the tranquility of the English countryside, she doesn’t expect her fairy tale romance to turn into a fight for her life as she’s pursued by the relentless darkness of her past. (Romantic Suspense)

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Review: Under Lock and Skeleton Key, by Gigi Pangian

Under Lock and Skeleton Key, by Gigi Pangian (St. Martin’s, 2022)

This first-in-series mystery novel ticks so many boxes. Interesting characters, strong family dynamics, good friendships, threads from the past that may include a generational curse, a puzzling crime with multiple misdirections… and food, all in a clean read. Plus bonuses like multi-ethnic characters, stage magician know-how, references to classic mysteries and authors, and best of all secret rooms and staircases. Oh, and crossover characters from at least one of the author’s other series.

I did say it ticks a lot of boxes…

Tempest Raj loves her multigenerational, ethnically-mixed family and their unique home. Visits are great. But she’s not happy to be living there again after a performance-gone-wrong that nearly killed her in front of an audience.

Then she’s present when a fresh body is discovered at her father’s construction company’s job site—in a room that hadn’t been opened for years. The rumoured family curse says “the eldest dies by magic.” Was Tempest the intended victim?

As unexplained, possibly supernatural, happenings abound, the family must consider that the curse may be real. Or is it all a cleverly-executed illusion?

Under Lock and Skeleton Key comes with recipes and discussion questions, and although this mystery is solved at the end the ongoing mystery of Tempest’s mother’s disappearance/death is ongoing. I’m eager to read book two, The Raven Thief.

Under Lock and Skeleton Key is multi-award-winning author Gigi Pandian’s twelfth novel, first in The Secret Staircase Mysteries. Her other series are the Jaya Jones Treasure Hunt Mysteries and The Accidental Alchemist Mysteries.

Visit the Gigi Pandian website for more about the author and her books. Get both a free short mystery and a recipe book by signing up for her author newsletter.

[Review copy from the public library.]

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The 15-Minute Initiative (Guest Post)

Image by The Vinh Hoang from Pixabay

The 15-Minute Initiative

By Steph Beth Nickel

You may have heard me refer to my Procrastination List. Although you may not have yours on paper, you likely have tasks that you put off as long as possible, sometimes longer than you should. (If not, feel free to share your encouraging tips in the comments. Truly. One of those tips may help another reader.)

Earlier this year, I came up with a new way to approach the things on my PL. I call it The 15-Minute Initiative.

How does it work?

I take a look at my Procrastination List and determine which items have a deadline. Those I really should transfer to the Action Plan (aka my To-Do List) in my planner.

The next step . . .

Determine how many items I want to work on during any given week.

Ideally, I would like to work on one item each weekday, but in reality, setting a goal of doing so from 1-3 days per week is likely more realistic.

If I devote just 15 minutes to said project, I can check it off my list for the day. Thus, The 15-Minute Initiative.

So, just what’s on my Procrastination List?

Not necessarily in order of importance . . .

  • Getting back to the gym and/or working out regularly at home. (This is one of those things I should be doing at least three times per week.)
  • Working on revisions of the book I’m coauthoring.
  • Reviewing notes from my beta readers on my Bible study/devotional on the book of John and applying those ideas which I feel will make it a stronger, more helpful manuscript.
  • Completing the first draft of my YA spec fiction story.
  • Getting my tax records together for Q1 and Q2 of 2025. (It’s far easier to do this each quarter rather than waiting until March 2026. That’s the theory anyway. So far, this item has remained firmly tucked away on my Procrastination List.)
  • Reading skills development books, many of which I’ve had for years.
  • Preparing for our move west, including decluttering and packing away things we won’t need in the coming year.
  • Preparing for my “homegoing,” when God calls me home to heaven. (While I don’t expect this to happen anytime soon, I don’t want to leave my family in limbo re: subscriptions to cancel, computer passwords, location of important files—both physical and digital, etc., etc., etc.)

I’m sure I could think of other things if I put my mind to it, but you get the idea.

So, what about you? What would you put on your Procrastination List?

And just a reminder . . .

If you have tips that help you keep your list to a minimum (or non-existent), feel free to share in the comments.

A reminder to all of us . . .

While something might work extremely well for others, it doesn’t mean it will work for you—and that’s okay. Keep trying new ideas, find what works for you, and persevere until it’s no longer working. At that point, you can research other ideas and give them a try.

What will you spend your 15 minutes on today?


Photo credit: Jaime Mellor Photography

As an editor, Steph Beth Nickel has the honour of coming alongside writers to help them polish their work. As the coauthor of Paralympian Deb Willows’s memoirs, Steph has been blessed to work with this amazing woman. And as a future self-published author, with the Lord’s help, Steph has taken brave steps toward publication.

If you would like more information about her services, you can contact her at stephbethnickelediting@gmail.com.

You’re invited to visit her website: http://stephbethnickeleditor.com/.

You can join her Editing Tips Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/418423519384351.

Want to Find More Books for Your To-Read List? 📚

Where do you discover new books to read?

Friends, strolling the library or bookstore, Goodreads…

Whatever your go-to options, here are a few more resources you might want to add to the list:

Christian/Clean Reads

ACFW Fiction Finder 

Shannon’s Book Bargains Roundup 

Narelle’s Preorder Roundup 

Reading is My Superpower 

(And I post a list of new releases each month here on my blog.)

All the Books (or lots of them!)

Book Series in Order 

Fantastic Fiction 

Shepherd 

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New Releases in Christian Fiction (June 2025)

June 2025 New Releases

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

Children’s/ Picture Book:


If Jesus Came To My School by April Graney — A young girl learns how Jesus’s love can shine at school through her compassion, kindness, and inclusion. (Children’s Picture Book from Waterbrook/Multnomah [Penguin Random House])


Phooey Kerflooey vs the Battle Squirrel by Kristen Joy Wilks — Phooey Kerflooey has finally found a home of her own.
Too bad a raging squirrel found it first! (Children’s, Independently Published)

Cozy Mystery:


Something Wicked This Way Hums by Jennifer Lamont Leo — Return to charming Timber Coulee, Idaho, where amateur sleuth Amanda Parrish is about to discover that murder can strike a sour note even in the most harmonious of places. (Cozy Mystery, Independently Published)

Historical Romance:


Angel from the East by Barbara A. Curtis — Caleb Morgan has had everything stolen from him-his strength, the job he loved, even his good name. He’s determined to even the score with the man responsible, until he meets the captivating new owner of the Double E Ranch. Though he’s drawn to her compassion, he fears she may never see beyond his supposed wrongdoings, unless he can prove his innocence and reclaim his honor. Eliza Roberts is a teacher, not a rancher. But if she has any hope of selling the ranch she inherited from her grandfather and continuing on to her new life in California, she needs to restore it to some semblance of order. If only the man her grandfather advised her to trust wasn’t refusing to help her. When an offer of courtship arises from the current foreman, Eliza sees the practicality in the offer. So why does her heart keep wandering back to Caleb? And why can’t she shake the feeling that something’s not right at the Double E Ranch? Will she have the courage to follow the clues behind the strange mishaps at the Double E-and possibly embrace a different life than she imagined? (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)


Of Silver and Secrets by Michelle Griep — Buried underneath are truths bent on keeping them apart. . . . In 1889 Victorian England, Eva Inman is haunted by guilt over her parents’ deaths while struggling to care for her blind sister and manage her family’s crumbling estate. With the tax deadline looming, Eva’s situation looks dire until an ancient silver ring is unearthed on the property. Despite superstitions warning against disturbing the supposedly cursed acres, Eva’s need for funds ignites her curiosity about the potential of finding more buried relics. Cambridge professor Bram Webb must prove a legendary Christian Roman settlement exists, or he’ll risk exposing his uncle’s deteriorating memory and they’ll both lose their positions. Then Eva steps into his office with the prospect of an archaeological dig that might lead to the very evidence Bram requires–provided he and Eva can set aside painful memories of a time they would rather forget. As the dig forces the two to confront their pasts, the work becomes fraught with challenges that threaten Eva’s and Bram’s hopes, as well as the growing attraction between them. (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing Group])


Heart’s Promise Heart’s Desire by Linda Hoover — Welcome back to Jacob and Julia’s Iowa farm. The year is 1893. Their son Justin is now eleven. and daughter Annaliese is ten. When Jacob and Julia adopted Annaliese as an infant, they were told God had a special plan for her. As Annaliese grows up, she can’t help but wonder if her purpose will be world-changing. Julia’s old friend, Edward Harrington, comes to visit from England, along with his wife and son, Robbie. Their time at the farm is the beginning of a like/hate relationship and later something more between Robbie and Annaliese. When the families travel to San Francisco in 1900, a shocking revelation from Edward’s wife could change everything, beginning with taking Annaliese back to England with them. If this is God’s plan, Annaliese is disappointed. It’s nothing like she imagined, and her heart’s desire is to go to veterinary college. She must consider if this is truly God’s calling for her because her decision could mean a very different future. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)


Heart of Hope by Kimberly Keagan — One Philadelphia socialite, one man who broke her heart, and a town called Victory that might live up to its name. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)


Madison’s Mission by Susan G. Mathis — Madison Murray, the devoted maid to the legendary Louise Boldt, harbors a singular mission—to care for her ailing mistress while hiding her own painful past. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Emmett O’Connor, the distinguished foreman overseeing Boldt Castle’s extravagant construction. Their connection sparks with promise, yet the chasm of class difference and hidden secrets loom large. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)


Secrets of the Revolution by Megan Soja — Hannah Pierce is determined to keep her father‘s apothecary shop running, despite his failing health, the heavy burden of her mother’s recent death, and the mysterious disappearance of her brother. She’ll do whatever it takes to preserve her family’s legacy, including joining a dangerous ring of patriot spies…and falling for a revolutionary printer with a brave heart. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)


The Lawyer and the Laundress by Christine Hill Suntz — Canada, 1837. In a British colony on the brink of rebellion, widower and lawyer James Kinney bands together with laundress Sara O’Connor to save the life of his lonely little girl. (Historical Romance from Tyndale House)


To Love a Beast by Karen Witemeyer — Once known among New York’s elite as the American Adonis, Everett Griffin now lives as a recluse in the wilds of Texas. Locals whisper of the beastly man who lives in the gloomy manor outside of town and his tendency to attack anyone who dares approach. Everett relishes his fearsome reputation and uses it as a shield to guard his privacy. Until a young woman as stubborn as she is beautiful infiltrates his sanctum and lays siege to his defenses. Beauty & the Beast story in 1800’s Texas. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Romantic Suspense:


Rescued by Jerusha Agen — As the nanny of twin two-year-olds who lost their mother, Valena Greer wants to create a happy and safe home for the children. The kids must know they’re loved and protected—the opposite of her own unstable childhood. But when danger comes to her door, the illusion of safety is shattered. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)


Romeo by Jessica Ashley — A deadly secret, an unexpected love that could cost everything. Riley “Romeo” Hunt is an expert at finding those who don’t want to be found. When he’s hired to catch a notorious jewel thief responsible for a brutal murder, he never expects to find a beautiful woman caught in the middle. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)


Reframing Trust by Regina Rudd Merrick — FBI Special Agent Julia Rossi returns to Clementville to investigate signs of criminal activity linked to a case she’s struggling to leave behind. After losing her fiancé to infidelity and her partner to prison, trust has become a foreign concept. Can she trust her job, her instincts, or even her faith? Carpenter Eli Reno isn’t thrilled when his exploration of the tunnels underneath Clementville not only uncovers evidence of recent criminal activity but also forces him to work alongside the woman who broke his friend’s heart. As the two explore the dark tunnels, Eli battles his anger over his friend’s betrayal, while Julia fights to regain her footing in a world full of broken trust. But in the depths below, can they learn to rely on one another—and on God—to uncover the truth and find healing in each other’s hearts? (Romantic Suspense from Scrivenings Press)


Capturing You by Robin Patchen — In a town shrouded by secrets, a photographer and the reclusive heir of the Ballentine fortune join forces to unravel a deadly conspiracy. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)


Trinity Sands Beach Club by Deborah Sprinkle, Jen Dodrill, and Sharon H. Carpenter — What do a widow, a newly divorced woman, and a retired professor of art history have in common? They all came to Trinity Sands Island to find a simple life without any entanglements. But instead, they are each confronted with a mystery and another chance at romance. Will they be brave enough to face the possible dangers of solving a mystery and losing their hearts? This collection includes three novellas. (Romantic Suspense from Scrivenings Press)


Echoes of Darkness by Darlene L. Turner — The sleepy community of Kenorapeake Falls in northern Ontario seems like somewhere Constable Oaklynn Brock can finally outrun her violent past. That is, until she’s assigned to investigate a series of suspicious deaths. She can’t reveal that she knows how serial killers think because she grew up with one. Yet the eerie similarities between these murders and those committed by her father, known as the Suicide Slayer, hint at a copycat in their midst. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:


Haunting of Time by Demi Griffin — In the Age of Augury, Kairos, also known as Time, had grown weary of her role in playing both sides. With the departure of the Enchantress, she saw an opportunity to strengthen her alliance with Mortality. Possessing the ability to manipulate time, she would haunt Everlasting, siphoning time by stealing it from the citizens. As Kairos pieced together her plan, the King summoned his chosen Harbingers. This group of eleven seemingly unrelated individuals had been brought together by a divine entity known as Portent. They accepted the calling under one condition. They were explicitly instructed not to engage directly with Time. Their sole objective was to deliver the King’s message. If they succeeded in doing so, the Age of Augury would reach its anticipated conclusion. (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy, Independently Published)

 

Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

Felling Fury by F.D. Adkins — As Ray vows to protect the woman he is falling for, it may be Ray who is in danger. Will he allow his anger and resentment to destroy him, or will he heed God’s voice calling to him from the light of Sandy’s faith? (General Suspense)

The Memory Garden by Jessica Brodie — In the small Southern town she vowed to escape forever, a shattered journalist discovers that protecting a boy with secrets as haunting as her own might be her last chance at redemption. (General Contemporary)

Keepsake by Susan Page Davis — Stanna Waverly is cleaning out her grandmother’s attic when she finds an old love letter. It’s to Emma, her grandma, all right, and the writer is urging her to elope with him. But at the end of the letter, she stares at the signature. That’s not her grandfather’s name. (Contemporary Romance)

The Ties That Loose by Felicia Ferguson — Can you really trust God when life plummets out of your control? As she searches for a way to bring Chris home and he strives to stay alive, they each battle their family histories desperate to find God’s future for them both. (Military Suspense)

Portent by Demi Griffin — Short interactions that led to beautiful moments captured more than Traveler’s heart. They were the bridge to the discovery of his name. Once he found that, he realized his decision to be a part of the King’s plan or not had already been made for him. (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy)

Across the Crying Sands by Jane Kirkpatrick — Based on a true story of the life of Mary Gerritse, wife, mother of four and the first woman to deliver the mail on the treacherous Oregon Coast in the late 1890s. (General Historical)

Judging Athena by Perrin Lovett — Judging Athena is an exciting foray into innocent, pure, and productive love. It is also a clarion call to return to the traditions of marriage, large families, and genteel society. (General Romance)

Sweet Double-Cross by Sally Jo Pitts — As bullets fly and bodies pile up, Trudy discovers Kirt is hiding his own secret. Amidst unexpected attraction and lethal betrayal, can the two survive this double-cross? (Romantic Suspense)

Surviving the Storm by Melanie D. Snitker — At an accident scene, Paramedic Curtis Whitman and EMT Aurora “Rory” Graham discover a gunshot victim and an absent driver. Rory’s unease intensifies when she spots a man watching her from the woods, followed by a barrage of gunfire. Now, a sinister stalker lurks, convinced Rory has witnessed too much. (Romantic Suspense)

His Liberating Flame by Ashley Thompson — She grew up in church and has never been in a relationship, he’s a prestigious model with a scarlet past in search of redemption. (Contemporary Romance)

The Oasis by Lorisa D. Wiedenheft — Ten-year-old Charly Harding has had a rough life. Her parents died in a car accident when she was five. She and her younger brother Matty moved three hours away to live with Granny, who is always strapped for cash. Then the unthinkable happens. One night, their double-wide trailer catches on fire and burns to the ground. (Children’s)

Shattered Peace by Julie McDonald Zander — A forgotten diary. A century-old secret. A town still haunted by its past when a peaceful parade turned deadly. A gripping time-slip novel inspired by true events. (Dual Time)

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Motivation vs. Overwhelm (Guest Post)

A person sits at a desk, head hidden behind a tall stack of books. The book on top is open, and the person is reaching for it.
Image by WOKANDAPIX from Pixabay

Motivation vs. Overwhelm

by Steph Beth Nickel

Are your shelves bowing under the weight of unread skills development books?

Have you subscribed to a plethora of podcasts to develop as a writer?

Do you sign up for innumerable courses you never complete?

If so…

Welcome to the club!

This book comes highly recommended. If I read that book, I’ll have the motivation to complete my WIP. If I buy this bestseller, I’ll be sure to accomplish my writing goals.

Does this sound like you?

Yes?

Again, welcome to the club!

The same holds true for the podcasts I listen to and the courses I sign up for, whether it’s writing, getting back into a regular exercise routine, taking up a new hobby, trying new recipes, or developing my spiritual life.

While a new book, podcast, or course may inspire me for a short time, I must persevere. And follow-through? Well, that’s where I fall short. And motivation becomes overwhelm.

What can we do when this is the case?

Here are eight suggestions:

  1. Gather all the books you want to read or re-read into one place.
  2. Determine which are most relevant to your current season as a writer.
  3. Set aside outdated volumes and those that aren’t currently applicable to your works-in-progress.
  4. Read a chapter, or a portion of a chapter, each day. Apply what you’ve learned immediately if possible.
  5. Repeat with each book you want to read.
  6. Approach your podcasts the same way. Determine which are of benefit. (And yes, we all need to “chill” at times. Not all our books or podcasts have to be educational per se.)
  7. Determine which courses you signed up for most recently. If they are relevant to what you are currently working on, go through the courses one at a time, setting aside time each week (or several times per week) based on available time.
  8. Admit to yourself that not every book, podcast, and course is relevant to your current season. Some may even be outdated. Take a deep breath and be willing to delete / unsubscribe / give away what is no longer relevant.

When we can apply what we’re learning, we’ll likely remain motivated to persevere.

If we hold onto too many resources, they will simply weigh us down.

What’s something that you find overwhelming rather than motivating? Are you ready to let it go?

What’s something that you’re ready to begin or get back to? A book? A podcast? A course? Something else?


Photo credit: Jaime Mellor Photography

As an editor, Steph Beth Nickel has the honour of coming alongside writers to help them polish their work. As the coauthor of Paralympian Deb Willows’s memoirs, Steph has been blessed to work with this amazing woman. And as a future self-published author, with the Lord’s help, Steph has taken brave steps toward publication.

If you would like more information about her services, you can contact her at stephbethnickelediting@gmail.com.

You’re invited to visit her website: http://stephbethnickeleditor.com/.

You can join her Editing Tips Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/418423519384351.

New Releases in Christian Fiction (May 2025)

May 2025 New Releases

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

Biblical Romance:


Mantle by Dana McNeely — Faith. Redemption. The cost of leadership. Will the next generation rise to the challenge and uphold the legacy of Elijah, or will they falter under the weight of the mantle? (Biblical Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)

Children’s Middle-grade/Chapter book:


Dixie Randolph and the Mystery of Willow Creek by MaryAnn Diorio — A twelve-year-old girl learns of a plot to kill her father and risks her life to save his.(Children’s Middle-grade/Chapter book from TopNotch Press)

Contemporary Romance:


Meet Me on Lilac Lane by Andrea Christenson — He was her late husband’s best friend, but for him she’d always been the one. (Contemporary Romance from Sunrise Publishing)


Anxious For Love by Gina Conroy — She’s anxious about love. He’s built a career on it— what could possibly go wrong? Fans of witty banter, reluctant allies, and slow-burn tension with a splash of reality TV romance will swoon over this feel-good romcom with heart, humor, and a happily ever after. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)


Mountain Homecoming by Susanne Dietze — After months away, architect Wyatt Teague returns home only to find himself named a guardian to his late friends’ orphaned twins…alongside his ex-fiancée, Natalie Dalton. But caring for them together proves to be a challenge: Wyatt’s job is in the city, and Natalie can’t leave her family’s apple orchard. As they vow to make this new partnership work, old feelings between them quickly resurface. But when Natalie finds out the true reason behind Wyatt’s abandonment, can she trust him with the babies…and her heart? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])


Hearts Aweigh by Shannon Sue Dunlap — Cheeky septuagenarian matchmakers, the “Shippers” are on a mission to secure a dreamy Mr. Right for Abby O’Brien, a sunny, optimistic childcare worker for Monarch Cruises. She loves her job looking after the children of vacationing parents, but harbors one unfulfilled desire: to be a wife and a mother. With his shy five-year-old daughter in tow, divorced elitist lawyer Spencer Randolph Masterson has anything but romance in mind. His goal on the MS Buckingham is to persuade his mother, Daisy, to leave her ridiculous cruise ship lifestyle and return to New Orleans. But Daisy isn’t interested in life on land. Besides, she and her matchmaking posse have a marriage to arrange. (Contemporary Romance from Kregel Publications)


Sometimes You Stay by Liz Johnson For digital content creator Cretia Martin, home is wherever her carry-on suitcase lands. She’s never been interested in settling in one spot—after all, houses are just places that collect junk and tie you down. But when she literally bumps into local dog breeder Finn Chaffey on Prince Edward Island and all of the tools of her trade end up in the harbor, she can’t exactly leave until she gets things sorted out. Finn is horrified by the part he played in the accident and offers to help, arranging for Cretia to stay with a friend at the beautiful Red Door Inn. The longer Cretia is forced to remain in one place, the more she discovers what she’s been missing with life on the road—and the more she wants to see Finn and his business succeed. But helping him means staying put, the one thing she always swore she wouldn’t do, and risking the only thing she’s never put on the line—her heart. (Contemporary Romance from Revell – a division of Baker Publishing Group)


A Valentine for a Vet by Carolyn Miller Veterinarian Jessie James loves her dog, loves her work, loves her family. She’s got a lot on her plate, which means there’s no time for a certain dishy teammate of her pro hockey-player brother, despite what others may think. Tom Chavez knows he’s in the friend zone, but isn’t one to give up too easily, especially when he’s concerned that this hardworking vet might be working herself into an early grave. When tragedy strikes the vet practice, he’s going to do all he can to show her he’s more than just a shoulder to cry on, and that he cares about more than her skills with his dog.
(Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)


No Place Like Home by Betsy St. Amant — Magnolia Bay’s development director, Cade Landry, would do anything for his town—and his family. So when the mayor—who also happens to be his father—decides to retire, he talks Cade into running for his seat. But Cade is already up to his dimpled cheeks in the town’s post-hurricane revitalization fundraiser—Magnolia Days, featuring a flashy Cajun Circus. If Cade can’t put the bay back on the map as a tourist town, he’ll let the whole community down…and worse yet, his father. Rosalyn Dupree is a famous aerialist with a secret—actually, quite a few of them. Much to Cade’s relief, she agrees to return to Magnolia Bay for the first time in years as a headliner for the Cajun Circus. But neither her charming former school rival Cade nor her parents know she’s broke, in debt, and nursing a back injury…among other things. Despite her best efforts at resisting, sparks fly between Cade and Rosalyn as they work together on the circus fundraiser. But when everyone’s secrets are revealed and worlds collide, will Rosalyn find forgiveness and restoration in a town being rebuilt? Or will there never be anywhere to truly call home? (Contemporary Romance from Sunrise Publishing)


Recipe for Love by Penny Zeller — Rumors started flying when all of the businesses on Main Street in Cloverdale Falls sold last month. Bakery owner Maisie Carpenter finds herself appointed to uncover the mysterious new owner’s identity, and in the process hopefully allay some of the residents’ fears. What happens when she solves the mystery and discovers the man in charge of purchasing the businesses is the very man she has recently fallen in love with? (Contemporary Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)

Contemporary/Women’s Fiction:


Worthless Treasures by Mary L Hamilton — Professional organizer Diamond Lange helps clients declutter their homes and let go of what no longer serves them. But when her mother, Eva, suddenly passes away, Diamond is left with a house overflowing with junk and a promise she regrets making. Although Diamond considers everything in her mother’s house trash, Eva left behind a very specific list of five seemingly worthless objects. Eva requested these items be passed on to others who will cherish them as much as she did. In fulfilling a promise to her late mother, Diamond learns that worth isn’t always measured in dollars and cents; sometimes it’s measured in the heart. (Contemporary Women’s Fiction, Independently Published)

General Contemporary:


The Way Home by Heidi Chiavaroli — Two lost souls, one lighthouse journey . . . and an unforgettable search for the way home. The Way Home is the second book in the Lights of Acadia series by two-time Carol award-winning author Heidi Chiavaroli. If you like romantic Women’s Fiction, you’ll love this thoughtful novel steeped in family secrets, second chances, and boundless compassion. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)


BirdSong: Stories of Promise and Hope by Sara Davison, Deb Elkink, Stacy Monson, Chautona Havig, Cathe Swanson, Milla Holt and Eleanor Bertin– From unexpected journeys into the future and the past to a life-changing weekend, a spontaneous road trip, family trauma, the birth of a bookstore, and a potentially disastrous wedding, the men and women in these stories must deal with everything life is throwing at them. Which is a lot. The turmoil and craziness challenge each of them to believe the promise of God’s timing—that every winter, no matter how dark and cold, will be followed by a season of birdsong. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

General Contemporary/Split-Time:


Gideon’s Book by Maureen Miller — This powerful time-split contemporary novel explores race, faith, love, and self-discovery, and touches on themes of adoption and abortion as well as the beauty of marital love. (General Contemporary (split-time) from Redemption Press)

General Historical:


Salome by Jenifer Jennings — Salome, the youngest of Jesus’siblings, learns to find her voice under Jesus’ guidance, but her bold defiance against the Pharisees leads her into the hands of Roman persecution. Explore the passion, conflict, and sacrifice of the early church in Salome, Book 7 of the Servant Siblings series. (General Historical, Independently Published)

Historical Mystery:


Show Me Skulduggery by Ellen E Withers — Death comes knocking once again in Show Me Skulduggery, the captivating third book in the award-winning Show Me Mysteries series. These mysteries involve two eras, early 1900s, and contemporary times, featuring a famous Saddlebred horse stable in Mexico, Missouri. Intrigue, deception, underhanded behavior, and murder will keep you turning pages. (Historical Mystery from Scrivenings Press)

Historical Romance:


A Slight Change of Plans by Denise M. Colby — She believes she doesn’t matter. His scars have made him an unlovable outcast. As Jenny settles into the welcoming, but small, town of Washton, she can’t help but come across Ren, especially since his daily constitutional takes him along the same path. It doesn’t take long for them to form a connection that breaks down the walls erected by years of hurt. But when strange occurrences unsettle the townspeople, it seems their chance at happiness might be at risk. Will Jenny and Ren discover that they’re enough—for God, and each other? (Historical Romance from Scrivenings Press)


Perfect by Kimberly Keagan — When the perfect life unravels, can love turn the page to a new beginning? In the glittering era of the Gilded Age, the heirs of Philadelphia’s Denwall Department Stores navigate family expectations, relentless ambition, and unexpected love. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)


Sporting For Love by Candice Sue Patterson — When a Boston socialite on the run gets entangled with a Maine outdoorsman, things get wild. When their weekend outing in the woods with the Appalachian Mountain Club goes terribly wrong, Ford and Juniper must decide if the lives they’ve been seeking are what they truly want or if they’re willing to risk a little adventure. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)


An Unexpected Grace by Kimberley Woodhouse and Tracie Peterson — After a decade away, Parker Bennett returns home with a traveling troupe to perform a play based on Uncle Tom’s Cabin at the Kalispell Opera House. Parker has relished his life on the road, but being home awakens long-buried emotions when he encounters his first love, Johanna St. John. Widowed for three years, Johanna devotes all her time to a demanding toddler, an injured father, and a successful millinery business. After the loss of her husband, she desires to move on, but reconnecting with her past love leaves her unsure of what lies ahead. Both committed to God’s distinct calling on their lives, Johanna and Parker struggle to see how their futures can unite, and when strange things start happening around town, their second chance at a life together seems more unlikely than ever. (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker] Publishing)


A Troubling Suggestion by Betty Woods — Clarisse Matthews still grieves the tragic loss of her fiancé and doubts she’ll ever love anyone again. Particularly if she has to divulge the secret abolitionist ideas she keeps hidden deep inside that only her beloved knew. After the lady Luke Williams loved spurned him and married another man, he will never risk giving his heart to another woman. But when Luke’s cousin is deceived by a rogue, who only Luke and Clarisse know the whole truth about, they form a reluctant alliance to protect his cousin. Their feigned attraction grows into genuine love. But will the differences between them become a wall too tall to climb or can they find a way around? (Historical Romance from Scrivenings Press)

Military Suspense:


No Time to Die by Taylor S Newport — Australian mercenary Tyler Reid, known as “The Ghost of OZ,” has a talent for evading detection, a skill that has caught the eye of multiple government agencies. When a shadowy group targets a CIA asset and her revolutionary drug ND1, the Deputy Director calls in Tyler. Eager for action, Tyler takes the job. For covert foreign operative Alexandra Romanova, freedom is a distant dream. Her deadly skills are at her boss’s disposal, but she’ll use them only to escape. Her final chance hinges on retrieving ND1, but the elusive Ghost of Oz complicates things. Tyler Reid isn’t an easy mark, and the better she gets to know him, the more she questions the mission she’s tasked with. Soon she faces a dire choice: kill a man she is convinced is good, or pay with her own life. In this high-stakes fight, time is running out, and the margin for error is zero. (Military Suspense from Whitewater River Publishing)

Romantic Suspense:


Rescued Heart: A Last Chance County Novel by Megan Besing — Actress Bianca “Bia” Pearl has finally landed the headlining role that could help leave her scandalous past behind—a role that may even earn back her parents’ respect. All she has to do is stick to the script, both on and off camera. Bianca is determined to prove to the press that she’s not who they say she is…an overrated gold digger.
Firefighter and former foster child Eddie Rice has always drawn the short straw in life. Now, he’s determined to help kids in need have a better future than he did. And when Eddie is selected to represent the fire station at Last Chance County’s masquerade ball, he realizes it’s the perfect opportunity to secure the mayor’s signature on a grant for a much-needed rec center. But when a case of mistaken identity and a bribe lead to Eddie and Bia being trapped together in a fire, the pair must team up to escape—and protect their futures in the process. (Romantic Suspense from Sunrise Publishing)


Midnight Offensive by Elle E Kay — ER nurse Sadie Kline can’t shake the feeling that something is off about the man who comes into her ER late one night. But she brushes it off—until a blind date with her brother’s best friend, Craig Malone, leads to something far more complicated than old feelings and second chances. Craig, now a Homeland Security agent, is tracking a stolen biological weapon when Sadie’s unsettling experience places her on his radar. She may hold the key to identifying a dangerous suspect, and when her family is targeted, protecting her becomes more than just part of the job. As danger escalates and secrets unravel, Craig and Sadie must work together to stop a biological attack. But in a world of shifting loyalties and silent threats, trusting each other might be the most dangerous move of all. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)


Missing in Texas by Virginia Vaughan — The moment FBI agent Christy Williams arrives in Mercy, Texas, determined to solve her friend’s disappearance twelve years ago, she becomes a killer’s number one target. Ignoring the threats on her life, she partners with Deputy Mike Tyner, the cousin of one of the chief suspects…and the last person to see her friend alive. As they work to investigate this cold case together, it becomes clear someone will stop at nothing to keep the past hidden. With time running out, can Mike keep Christy alive long enough to find justice for her friend…before a murderer strikes again? (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Suspense:


Inheritance by J.A. Webb — Father Curtis has forsaken his vows. He has left the Order and joined the Seekers, a hidden rebellion dedicated to uncovering the truth long buried by the global church. But walking away from the Order does not mean escaping its reach. When word spreads that a copy of the True Text — the original thirty-nine books of the Creator — has surfaced on the far side of the world, Curtis, Professor Reuel, and Phillip embark on a desperate mission. If they can retrieve the artifact, it could change everything. If they fail, the truth will be lost forever. The war for truth has begun. And the Order will not suffer heretics to live. (Suspense, Independently Published)

 

Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

Just a Piece of Stone by Mary Ann Hake — A Jewish boy receives a special stone passed on through the generations, clear back to Bible times, and learns its history via family stories. (Children’s Middle-grade/Chapter Books)

Frazzled Moms vs Wild by Stephanie Paige King — Two moms, one campsite, zero survival skills. Nothing’s more frazzling than a family camping trip, except bringing along the neighbors and their trio of toddlers. (General Contemporary)

Forever Changed by Diana Leagh Matthews — What would you do if you had to raise someone else’s family and step into their lives? Can Caleb and Danielle let go of their painful pasts, forgive, and move forward into an uncertain future? (Contemporary/Women’s Fiction)

Mouse in Your Pocket by Janetta Fudge Messmer — How can Jessica handle inheriting a junkyard, her common sense going out the window, and Jimmy Barnes? She doesn’t, without the Lord. (Contemporary Romance)

Frayed Promises by Lynn U. Watson — If you enjoy stories of faith in the face of society’s pressures and trusting God in times of struggle, you’ll love this closed-door romance that will keep you guessing until the end. (Historical Romance)

Road Trip Redemption by Becca Wierwille — Jada talks her two older sisters into a trip to Pennsylvania to reunite Kimmy with her furry friend. But as new questions about their canine companion unravel Jada’s plans, she wonders how she’ll face Kimmy after all these years. The road ahead may be more complicated than Jada imagined. (Children’s Middle-grade/Chapter Books)

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Review: Vinyl Resting Place, by Olivia Blacke

Overhead view of a storefront with cafe table and chairs and a cat. A vinyl record lies broken just outside the door. A large image of a vinyl record at the top of the cover says "Vinyl Resting Place The Record Shop Mysteries".

Vinyl Resting Place, by Olivia Blacke (St. Martin’s, 2023)

They grew up in their grandparents’ record store. Between fond memories and family ties, it’s no surprise when three Texan sisters open a combination record shop and coffee bar on the original site.

In the small town of Cedar River, just outside of Austin, everyone remembers the Jessup sisters—and the store. The grand reopening draws a crowd—including a murderer.

Juni (Juniper) is the youngest, recently moved back to town after a corporate buyout. She and sisters Tansy and Maggie have pooled their savings to set up the store.

They should leave solving the crime to the professionals—except the police make Uncle Calvin look like the number one suspect. The suddenly-missing Uncle Calvin, who’s just skipped town.

Vinyl Resting Place is a good, clean, quirky mystery with a heavy dose of family, puns (you got that from the title, right?) and an undercurrent of rivalry for Juni’s attention between her ex and her childhood best friend.

Where do the puns come in? Well, they had to name the drinks for their coffee bar. How better to do it than by riffing off song titles?

This first book in the Record Shop Mysteries series is a perfect de-stressing read. There’s even a cat. Books 2 and 3, Fatal Groove and Rhythm and Clues, are already on my to-read list.

Author Olivia Blacke’s website describes her as “Mysterious, Spooky, Cozy & Kooky!” As well as the Record Shop Mysteries and the Brooklyn Murder Mysteries, she writes “darkly humorous supernatural mysteries.” Like the Ruby & Cordelia Mysteries, where one of the sleuths is a ghost. For more about the author and her work, visit oliviablacke.com.

[Review copy from the public library.]

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Double E-Book Sale

For under $2, get books 1 and 2 to start the Green Dory Inn Mystery series. International (US, CA, UK, AU, NZ, Europe). Multiple retailers. Ends May 11, 2025.

Book cover for Unknown Enemy, featuring a shadowy figure standing among trees. A larger version of the image makes a faint background for the full square. Text: The Green Dory Inn mystery series. Come for the mysteries. Stay for the characters.  Unknown Enemy, book 1, only 99 cents until May 11, 2025. Available for Apple, Google Play Books, Kindle, Kobo, Nook & more. books2read.com/unknownenemy
Buy link: https://books2read.com/unknownenemy or click the image above.
Book cover for Hidden Secrets, featuring a cliff and ocean waves. A larger version of the image makes a faint background for the full square. Text: Past secrets. Present threats. And a woman determined to uncover the truth.  Hidden Secrets, A Green Dory Inn mystery, book 2, only 99 cents until May 11, 2025. Available for Apple, Google Play Books, Kindle, Kobo, Nook & more. books2read.com/hidden-secrets
Buy link: https://books2read.com/hidden-secrets or click the image above.

Not Second Best (Guest Post)

A young woman holds a coffee cup in front of her mouth. You can tell from her eyes that she's smiling.
Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Not Second Best

by Steph Beth Nickel

I’ll write a book when…

I’ll write my next book when…

There are countless numbers of people who would like to write a book “some day,” whether it’s their first or thirty first. In fact, you may be one of them. I know I am.

I have numerous ideas for books I’d like to write and self-publish, but will I get around to it? We’ll see.

For now, my life is filled with editing others’ manuscripts, assisting my hubby as we prepare to renovate and sell our home of over 20 years, planning for our move west, serving as Contest Coordinator for InScribe—and yes, tweaking and submitting the manuscript I wrote with my coauthor.

Are these things keeping me from completing other manuscripts I’ve begun and those floating around my mind? Are they getting in the way of writing and publishing picture books, women’s fiction, devotionals, etc., etc., etc.? Are they second best?

To be honest, I have several hours each day that I could dedicate to writing. And while you may not, there are probably 15-60-minute blocks of time you could set aside for writing multiple times per week.

But does that mean that if we don’t “straighten up and fly right,” for whatever reason, we should view our day-to-day responsibilities and even our socialization and relaxation as second best?

We’ve all heard a lot about mindset these days, but how we view our endeavours has a lot to do with how we spend our time. Plus, our mindset has even more to do with our attitude and emotions.

Let’s look at how we spend our time, maybe even keep track for a few days or a week of how we spend each hour of the day.

We can’t be “the best” at everything, but we do have to prioritize our tasks. Too often, downtime and writing are at the bottom of the list. And too often, we resent our “evil day job” and/or other day-to-day responsibilities.

What if we began to give thanks for the opportunities to earn an income, care for our aging family member, play outside with our children or grandchildren?

What if we reminded ourselves that blessing even one other person is a privilege—even when it’s draining?

What if we gave ourselves the grace to watch a TV show, listen to a podcast, or read a novel without guilt?

Would there still be time to write?

In my case, I know the answer is an unequivocal yes. And you might find the same is true for yourself. But if not, maybe now isn’t the season to write that book. That doesn’t mean, however, that it will never be the right time. And if you can carve out those few minutes even two or three times per week, we may be celebrating with you in the next year or two that you’re ready to press Publish or send off queries to agents and/or publishers.

Wishing you all the best (not second best) today and always!


Photo credit: Jaime Mellor Photography

As an editor, Steph Beth Nickel has the honour of coming alongside writers to help them polish their work. As the coauthor of Paralympian Deb Willows’s memoirs, Steph has been blessed to work with this amazing woman. And as a future self-published author, with the Lord’s help, Steph has taken brave steps toward publication.

If you would like more information about her services, you can contact her at stephbethnickelediting@gmail.com.

You’re invited to visit her website: http://stephbethnickeleditor.com/.

You can join her Editing Tips Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/418423519384351.