Novel News from Author Lyn Cote

Hey guys,

A quick word about my friend, Lyn Cote's, new historical romance novel, Her Patchwork Family. This is the second in the Gabriel Sisters series. Here's a brief summation of the novel: In spite of opposition from the rich and influential, can Felicity Gabriel establish a home for children orphaned by the Civil War and heal two wounded hearts?

Lyn is one of the hardest workers in Christian fiction today. See her blog HERE.

Novel News from Author Gail Martin

My friend, Gail Martin, is the multi-award-winning novelist author of 43 novels - with three million books in print. Wow. Can't imagine penning all those books!

Gail's latest, Monterey Memories, is a compilation of three novels set in the beautiful Monterey area in the central coast of California. The Barbour anthology includes the novels And Baby Makes Five, Garlic and Roses, and Butterfly Trees.

Here's a brief description: Walk the streets and countryside of Monterey, California, with three couples who are surprised by love in the midst of their busy lives. Chad helps Felisa when she goes into labor in his lettuce field. Juli meets Alan while volunteering at a soup kitchen. Ross takes an overdue vacation at Alissa’s bed-and-breakfast. Can busy people slow down enough to realize the love God has brought into their lives?

Learn more at www.GailMartin.com.

Novel News from Author Robin Lee Hatcher

Hey guys,

I'm especially excited to introduce Robin Lee Hatcher's new novel, FIT TO BE TIED. The reason I say that is because I've recently signed on with a savvy, experienced, wonderful agent who'll be representing me on the fiction-side of things, and she just so happens to be Robin's agent as well; has been for several decades. This "secret agent" has challenged me in my fiction writing and has really pushed me to take my writing to the next level.

Amazingly, Robin keeps churning out the books. Here's a blurb about her latest:

Who says a woman can’t do a man’s job?

Cleo Arlington dresses like a cowboy, is fearless and fun-loving, and can ride, rope, and wrangle a horse as well as any man. In 1916, however, those talents aren’t what most young women aspire to. But Cleo isn’t most women. Twenty-nine years old and single, Cleo loves life on her father’s Idaho ranch. Still, she hopes someday to marry and have children.

Enter Sherwood Statham, an English aristocrat whose father has sentenced him to a year of work in America to “straighten him out.” Sherwood, who expected a desk job at a posh spa, isn’t happy to be stuck on an Idaho ranch. And he has no idea how to handle Cleo, who’s been challenged with transforming this uptight playboy into a down-home cowboy.

Just about everything either of them says or does leaves the other, well, fit to be tied. And though Cleo believes God’s plan for her includes a husband, it couldn’t possibly be Sherwood Statham. Could it?

For more details, please visit Robins web site: www.RobinLeeHatcher.com.

Peace,

CM

Novel News from Author Cindy Woodsmall

My friend and Georgia neighbor, Cindy Woodsmall, has a new novella coming out just in time for Christmas. Cindy is a wonderful friend who is extremely committed to her family and her craft. She's also a New York Times best-selling author whose connection with the Amish has been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal. Her ability to authentically capture the heart of her characters comes from her real-life connections with Plain Mennonite and Old Order Amish families.

Her new novella is entitled, The Sound of Sleigh Bells:

Beth Hertzler works alongside her beloved Aunt Lizzy in their dry goods store, and serving as contact of sorts between Amish craftsmen and Englischers who want to sell the Plain people’s wares. But remorse and loneliness still echo in her heart everyday as she still wears the dark garb, indicating mourning of her fiancé. When she discovers a large, intricately carved scene of Amish children playing in the snow, something deep inside Beth’s soul responds and she wants to help the unknown artist find homes for his work–including Lizzy’s dry goods store. But she doesn’t know if her bishop will approve of the gorgeous carving or deem it idolatry. Lizzy sees the changes in her niece when Beth shows her the woodworking, and after Lizzy hunts down Jonah, the artist, she is all the more determined that Beth meets this man with the hands that create healing art. But it’s not that simple–will Lizzy’s elaborate plan to reintroduce her niece to love work? Will Jonah be able to offer Beth the sleigh ride she’s always dreamed of and a second chance at real love–or just more heartbreak?

For details, click HERE.

Novel News from Author Susan Meissner

Hey gang,

My friend Susan Meissner has a new novel out entitled White Picket Fences. The word is, readers of emotional dramas that are willing to explore the lies families tell each other for protection and comfort will enjoy this new work of Susan's. The novel is ideal for those who appreciate exploring questions like: what type of honesty do children need from their parents, or how can one move beyond a past that isn’t acknowledged or understood? Is there hope and forgiveness for the tragedies of our past and a way to abundant grace?

The story in a nutshell:

When her black sheep brother disappears, Amanda Janvier eagerly takes in her sixteen year-old niece. Tally is practically an orphan: motherless, and living with a father who raises Tally wherever he lands– in a Buick, a pizza joint, a horse farm–and regularly takes off on wild schemes. Amanda envisions that she and her family can offer the girl stability and a shot at a “normal” life, even though their own storybook lives are about to crumble.

You can find out more right HERE.

Book News from Author Cheryl Wyatt

Hey guys,

My friend, up-and-coming author Cheryl Wyatt, was born on Valentine’s Day--of all days--and guess where? On a naval base, of all places! That makes her a prime candidate for writing military romance novels.

Her new tale, Soldier Daddy (great title) is about....well, let me give you the official blurg:

U.S. Air Force commander Aaron Petrowski leads pararescue teams, yet can't find one nanny for his three-year-old twins? The widowed father is returning to duty, but not without the best care for his beloved boys. So when Sarah Graham applies, the young woman surprises everyone by passing inspection. Until Aaron discovers Sarah has a secret tied to a tragedy in his past. He can't keep her in his employ—or in his heart. Until his brave little soldier boys teach him a thing or two about love.

The book got 4 of 5 Stars at Romantic Times. Get the book on Amazon and visit Cheryl's web at www.CherylWyatt.com.

Book News from Author Terri Blackstock

Hi everyone,

Best-selling author Terri Blackstock is not only one of the most powerful voices in fiction, she is a wonderful person. Her new novel, Intervention, is both intriguing and enlightening. Here's what I can tell you about it...

The novel was inspired by Terri's personal experiences with her daughter's addictions. Six years ago she became aware that her daughter (then in her early twenties) had a severe prescription pill addiction that was killing her, and she hired an interventionist to convince her daughter to go to treatment. After a grueling few hours, her daughter agreed to go. As Terri put her on the plane with the interventionist, she was hit with the crushing feeling that her daughter was in the hands of a stranger, and anything could happen. That's when this book was born.

It was her last hope—and the beginning of a new nightmare. Barbara Covington has one more chance to save her daughter from a devastating addiction, by staging an intervention. But when eighteen-year-old Emily disappears on the way to drug treatment—and her interventionist is found dead at the airport—Barbara enters her darkest nightmare of all.

Barbara and her son set out to find Emily before Detective Kent Harlan arrests her for a crime he is sure she committed. Fearing for Emily’s life, Barbara maintains her daughter’s innocence. But does she really know her anymore? Meanwhile, Kent has questions of his own. His gut tells him that this is a case of an addict killing for drugs, but as he gets to know Barbara, he begins to hope he’s wrong about Emily.

The mysteries intensify as everyone’s panic grows: Did Emily’s obsession with drugs lead her to commit murder—or is she another victim of a cold-blooded killer?

In this gripping novel of intrigue and suspense, bestselling author Terri Blackstock delivers the page-turning drama that readers around the world have come to expect from her.

Click here for Terri's web site.

New Fan of Scott Stapp

Hey,

Have you guys listened to Scott Stapp? I don't know a great deal about his former band, CREED, but what I do know is that some of Scott's songs are right up my alley. My recent downloads include: Higher, Broken, and The Great Divide.

As in books, I am always listening for that unique sound in my music selections. To that end, Scott Stapp rocks.

Like all of us, Scott has had his ups and downs...that's why I love his lyrics. Real. Gritty. Transparent. And to me, totally uplifting.

For more info., go to www.scottstapp.com.

P.S. Scott, if God has you read this, please contact me. I'd love to send you my Rock Star Chronicles novels...you could star in the lead role of the major motion picture!

Library News from Author Roxanne Rustand

Hey everyone,

My friend Roxanne Rustand has a new novel out, entitled Final Exposure. Here's a blurb:

Safety. Serenity. That’s what Jack Matthews wants, and what he seeks in Lost Falls, Montana. A quiet retreat is just what Jack and his orphaned nephew, Max, need—especially with gentle, beautiful Erin Cole as their host. But when sirens in the night leave Max screaming, Jack’s faced with the harsh truth. They’re not safe—not him, not Max and especially not Erin. What is she hiding? What does the shadowy figure stalking her want? And how much will Jack have to risk to keep her safe?

Learn more at Roxanne's Web Site.

Library News from Author Maureen Lang

Hey all,

My good friend Maureen Lang has a new novel out, entitled Look To The East.

I like what they came up with for the tag line:

A Village Under Siege. A Love Under Fire
France, 1914

And here's a little taste to whet your appetite:

At the dawn of the First World War, the French village of Briecourt is isolated from the battles, but the century-old feud between the Toussaints and the de Colvilles still rages in the streets. When the German army sweeps in to occupy the town, families on both sides of the feud are forced to work together to protect stragglers caught behind enemy lines.

Julitte Toussaint may have been adopted from a faraway island, but she feels the scorn of the de Colvilles as much as anyone born a Toussaint. So when she falls in love with one of the stragglers—a wealthy and handsome Belgian entrepreneur—she knows she's playing with fire. Charles Lassone hides in the cellar of the Briecourt church, safe from the Germans for the moment. But if he's discovered, it will bring danger to the entire village and could cost Charles his life.

For details, just click Maureen's web site HERE!

New Novel in the Works

For those interested, I am working on a new novel as of August 2009. It will be awhile before it hits shelves. I promise it will be worth the wait! CM

In the meantime, please visit my web site and read my first three books: CrestonMapes.com.

Cindy Woodsmall, New Novel!

Greetings all,

Author Cindy Woodsmall is my friend and neighbor (kind of...we live only 20 minutes part). What I can tell you about Cindy is that she is a wonderful wife and mother, and friend. She mentors many writers in our area of Atlanta, and her books are powerful. The newest is called The Hope of Reguge -- it's book #1 in Ada's House Series.

Here's a bit about the new novel...

Raised in foster care and now the widowed mother of a little girl, Cara Moore struggles against poverty, fear, and a relentless stalker. When a trail of memories leads Cara and Lori out of New York City toward an Amish community, she follows every lead, eager for answers and a fresh start. She discovers that long-held secrets about her family history ripple beneath the surface of Dry Lake, Pennsylvania, and it's no place for an outsider. But one Amish man, Ephraim Mast, dares to fulfill the command he believes that he received from God-"Be me to her"- despite how it threatens his way of life.

Completely opposite of the hard, untrusting Cara, Ephraim's sister Deborah also finds her dreams crumbling when the man she has pledged to build a life with begins withdrawing from Deborah and his community, including his mother, Ada Stolzfus. Can the run-down house that Ada envisions transforming unite them toward a common purpose-or push Mahlon away forever? While Ephraim is trying to do what he believes is right, will he be shunned and lose everything-including the guarded single mother who simply longs for a better life?

For details, click Cindy's web site.

Library News from Author Lyn Cote

Hi everyone,

Lyn Cote has a new book out, HER INHERITANCE FOREVER, which is book two of the Texas: Star of Destiny series. Here's some insight about the story:

In 1836 Texas, Alandra Sandoval is the Tejano lady of Rancho Sandoval. She is determined to show the world of men that she, a woman, can run the ranch successfully without a male by her side. Yet she still longs for future love and a family.

Scully Falconer, a loner, is the top hand on a nearby ranch. He has given his loyalty to the Quinn family and doesn’t ask more than honest pay for an honest day’s work.

Alandra, the lady of Mexican descent, and Scully, the American cowboy, think they have very different paths set before them. But greedy relatives burst onto the scene, threatening to change their way of life. And when General Santa Anna crosses the Rio Grande and marches north to keep his rendezvous with destiny at the Alamo, Alandra and Scully’s lives will never be the same.

The Library Journal says Lyn Cote “demonstrates her skill at creating strong female protagonists in compelling stories that will captivate historical romance readers.” HER INHERITANCE FOREVER attests to Cote’s ability to create page-turning, riveting romances with wonderful historical details that also allow readers to watch the forming of the Texas state."

For more, click HERE.

Library News from Author Camy Tang

Hey guys,

My friend Camy Tang has a new thriller out called Deadly Intent. Check out this blurb about the book and see what you think:

The Grant family's exclusive Sonoma spa is a place for rest and relaxation—not murder! When Naomi Grant finds her client Jessica Ortiz bleeding to death in her massage room, everything falls apart. The salon's reputation is at stake…and so is Naomi's freedom when she
discovers that she is one of the main suspects! Her only solace is found with the other suspect—Dr. Devon Knightley, the victim's ex-husband. But Devon is hiding secrets of his own. When they come to light, where can Naomi turn…and whom can she trust?

For details, go to http://www.camytang.com.

Library News from Author Jill Elizabeth Nelson

My friend Jill E. Nelson is turning out the books. Her first three were done with my publisher, Multnomah, and the newest, Witness to Murder, is put out by Steeple Hill. Here's a snippet: Poised for an interview, TV reporter Hallie Berglund walks into a murder scene instead. The victim’s boyfriend stands over the body, murder weapon in hand. Hallie couldn’t stop the crime, but as the star witness, she’ll see the man brought to justice . . . right? Not according to her colleague Brody Jordan, who is convinced the police—and Hallie—are targeting the wrong man. To prove it, he’ll need Hallie’s help. The victim was wearing a bracelet handcrafted by Hallie’s long-dead mother. Now Hallie is the only one who can unearth the secrets of the past—and bring the sinister truth to light.

Learn more HERE.

Library News from Author Cheryl Wyatt

Hey...were you aware that Cheryl Wyatt's new novel, A Soldier’s Reunion, is in stores now? That's right, it's part of the Wings of Refuge Series. Here's a sneak peak...

Despite a decade apart, this isn't the reunion Mandy Manchester expected! She thought she'd put high school sweetheart Nolan Briggs behind her. Now he's back…and the pararescue jumper literally sweeps her off her feet. He's ready and willing to rekindle what they once shared. Mandy, though, isn't prepared to put her heart at risk. He left her before—she won't trust him again. Can Nolan teach this grounded girl to take a leap of faith?

Want more details? Click here!

Library News from Author Linda Hall

My friend Linda Hall writes some great suspense. She has a new novel out right now, entitled Shadows on the River. It's the story of Ally Roarke. When she was a young teenager she saw her best friend pushed to her death. Here are Ally's own words: 

"I was only fourteen when I witnessed a murder on the riverbank. A murder that went unpunished. Unless you count what happened to my family. We were forced out of town by the teenage killer's prominent parents. And the murder was forgotten—by everyone but me. Now, the killer is a respected businessman. I can't let him get away with it. But I'm a single mother with a child to protect, what can I do? The new man in my life, Mark Bishop, warns me to be careful. For there's already been another murder. Close to home."

Learn more HERE.

Library News from Author Roxanne Rustand

Hey

Deadly Competition is Roxanne's newest novel. Here's what I can tell you about it:

The single mother hasn't been found. And all her daughter, Sarah, has is her uncle. Clueless at parenting, Clint Herald seeks a loving, responsible nanny. What he finds instead is a stranger as mysterious as his sister's disappearance. Mandy Erick is secretive and seems scared, yet she's so good with Sarah that Clint can't help but trust her. In fact, he even enters Mandy in the town's Mother of the Year contest. But attention is the last thing Mandy wants. Her time in the public eye may prove just as dangerous as she fears.

Learn more HERE.

Library News from Author Robin Lee Hatcher

Hello readers and friends,

Veteran author Robin Lee Hatcher has a new novel out entitled, A VOTE OF CONFIDENCE. Here's a bit about it...

Who says a woman can’t do a man’s job? Put up or shut up! Complaining about Bethlehem Springs' dissolute mayoral candidate, Gwen Arlington is challenged to take on the role herself. For seven years, she’s carved out an independent life in the bustling mountain town of Bethlehem Springs, Idaho, teaching piano and writing for the local newspaper. But now she’s a single woman running for mayor — and in 1915 this decision is bound to stir up trouble.

Morgan McKinley is fed up with the delays that hinder the construction of New Hope Health Spa, a place where both rich and poor can come for rest and healing. New to the area, he has determined that serving as mayor would help him push through his agenda for progress.

Gwen and Morgan each want to prove they are the most qualified candidate, not only to voters but to each other, and so sparks fly as the two campaign. Although Morgan has learned to guard his heart as fiercely as Gwen guards her independence, could they learn to be allies instead of adversaries?

This first book in the Sisters of Bethlehem Springs Series provides intriguing insights into how women challenged convention and shaped America in the early twentieth century.

For more, click Robin's web site.

Library News from Author Susan May Warren

Hey everyone,

My friend from Minnesoooota, as she says, Susan May Warren, has a new romantic comedy/suspense book out called Nothing But Trouble! It's from her PJ Sugar - Trouble Collection. Here's a snapshot:

After traveling the country for ten years hoping to shake free from the trail of disaster that’s become her life, she needs a fresh start. The last person she wants to see when she heads home for her sister’s wedding is Boone—her former flame and the reason she left town.

Her best friend’s husband absolutely did not commit the first murder Kellogg , Minnesota , has seen in more than a decade. What PJ doesn’t know is that when she starts digging for evidence, she’ll uncover much more than she bargained for—a deadly conspiracy, a knack for investigation, and maybe, just maybe, that fresh start she’s been longing for.

You can find out more about Susan and her books, and order them, HERE.

Library News from Author Amy Wallace

Hey all,

My friend and Georgia neighbor Amy Wallace has a new novel out, Enduring Justice. Here's the scoop on it...

A PAINFUL PAST

Hanna Kessler’s childhood secret has remained buried for over two decades. But when the dark shadows of her past threaten to destroy those she loves, Hanna must face the summer that changed her life and the man who still haunts her memories.

A RACIALLY-MOTIVATED KILLER

As a Crimes Against Children FBI Agent, Michael Parker knows what it means to get knocked down. Difficult cases and broken relationships have plagued his entire year. But when the system fails and a white supremacist is set free, Michael’s drive for retribution eclipses all else.

A LIFE-ALTERING CHOICE

A racist's well-planned assault forces Hanna and Michael to decide between executing vengeance and pursuing justice. The dividing line between the two is the choice to heal. But when the attack turns personal, is justice enough?

New Books From Friends...

Due to travel to Belgium to see my lovely sister Mindy and her hubby Bill, then a trip to Amelia Island with family, I've been tardy about posting some books news from friends. Let me get you caught up...

My good friend Beth White has a new one out that sounds unique in every way. It's called Tour de Force...


Gilly Kincade is a rising star on the New York ballet scene. Dancing is her life's passion, second only to her love for Jesus, and she believes her faith sets her apart--but hasn't held her back. Chosen for a plum role in a new ballet choreographed for her, it seems the sky's the limit. Then she meets Jacob Ferrar....Jacob has left behind the glittering temptations of stardom in New York ballet. He has established a reputation as a brilliant, innovative artistic director of a regional dance company in Alabama, with a vision for choreography that glorifies God and encourages the audience. In fact, he's certain nothing could make him go back....

Winner of the National Readers’ Choice Award, Leanna Ellis writes quirky women's fiction, like her new novel, Ruby's Slippers...


When Dottie Meyers loses her ‘no place like home’ during a Kansas tornado, she wakes up to find a pair of ruby slippers left by her father who abandoned his family thirty years ago. With her sister hot on her trail to find the treasured ruby slippers, Dottie travels a yellow brick road with three friends to find her father. No wizard can solve her problems. Only the love of a heavenly father can heal her wounds and give her the desires of her heart.

And Tammy Alexander has a new one out, called Beyond This Moment, a Timber Ridge Reflections novel. Here's a quick peek...


Lives are made up of tiny steps. Some are chosen for us; some we choose. All hold the power to change who we become—but only if we let them. When Dr. Molly Whitcomb, Professor of Romance Languages, steps off the train in Colorado Territory, she makes a choice—one that goes against everything she stands for. Yet it’s the only choice that offers her a chance to regain a fraction of all she’s lost. Sheriff James McPherson’s instincts about people rarely miss the mark. He senses Professor Whitcomb is hiding something. He just doesn’t know what. When James learns Molly’s secret, his own reputation is undermined. But when Molly Whitcomb’s reinvented life begins to unravel, it threatens his job, the stability of Timber Ridge, and what he always knew to be true about himself.

Library News from Author Lyn Cote

My friend Lyn Cote's newest historical saga, The Desires of Her Heart, has been released by Avon Inspire. Look what Library Journal has to say about it:

"After gambling away his family's estate, Kilbride decides to pack up and move the family to the new Texas territory, where land is free for the taking. But 25-year-old Dorritt knows her stepfather doesn't have the sense or character to lead them there; instead, she relies on their wagon train's rugged scout to guide them. Dorritt trusts Quinn until she discovers his prior business dealings with Kilbride. Dorritt, who wants to be free of her stepfather so she can live her own dreams, discovers, though, that her dreams may include a man after all. In her new series launch, the RITA Award–winning author (Blessed Assurance, "Women of Ivy Manor" series) demonstrates her skill at creating strong female protagonists in compelling stories that will captivate historical romance readers."

Here's Lyn's web site to find out MORE.

Library News from Author Terri Blackstock

My friend Terri Blackstock has become one of the most widely read novelists in Christian fiction today. In fact, her books have sold six million copies worldwide. How bout that? Known for her “Up All Night Fiction,” Terri has enjoyed more than 25 years of success as a novelist. Terri makes her home in Mississippi, where she and her husband Ken are enjoying their empty nest after raising three children. (One of their daughters, I'm glad to say, has enjoyed several of my books!)

Here's a little about Terri's new novel, Double Minds...As talented singer/songwriter Parker James struggles to make her mark on the Nashville music scene, she finds the competition can be fierce – even deadly. When a young woman is murdered at the recording studio where Parker works, Parker is drawn into a mystery where nothing is as it seems. Unraveling the truth puts her own life at risk when she uncovers high-level industry corruption and is terrorized by a menacing stalker. As the danger escalates, Parker begins to question her dreams, her future, and even her faith. Does stardom even matter anymore?

The recent edition of Romantic Times says: “Blackstock’s superior writing will keep readers turning pages late into the night to discover the identity of the culprit in this amazing mystery. The unique setting and peek into the Nashville music scene are fascinating. Suspense lovers are in for a delightful treat.”

Catch a Video Trailer of Terri's new novel at her web site: www.terriblackstock.com.

Library News from Author Jill Elizabeth Nelson

Hey guys,

My friend...I call her that because, although we've not met, we kind of travel in the same circles and admire each other's work....anyway, Jill Elizabeth Nelson has a new novel out with Steeple Hill Publishers. It's called Evidence of Murder. I hope you'll check it out. Here's a paragraph from Jill about the book, followed by her web link.

The photographs Samantha Reid uncovers in her new store are shocking. Horrifying. And dangerous. This new evidence could reopen a decade-old multiple homicide case that someone wants desperately to keep closed. And when the evidence comes out, a reluctant Samantha is drawn straight into the spotlight. Then she meets Ryan Davidson, the last surviving member of the murdered family. In spite of herself, she’s drawn in by his need to find the truth. Together, they work to unravel the mystery, while the killer works to keep the secrets buried—forever.

To find Jill and her books on the web click HERE.

A Challenge for All of Us

I just finished reading a remarkable book: The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence (Nicholas Herman). It is about developing close companionship with Christ. About living in his presence 24/7. I can't do it. I'm not there. But Brother Lawrence's book is so challenging. It's about conversing with the Lord all day long. "Praying continually," as Christ encouraged us. Not out of some rote, mechanical, legalistic desire, but simply out of love for God, because of what he's done for us. I've underlined a bunch of powerful lines in my copy and am referring to it throughout the day. If your "walk" is a little dry or you feel like you're in a spiritual rut. You may want to check out this tiny but powerful read. CM

Library News from Author Leanna Ellis

Winner of the National Readers’ Choice Award and Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart Award, Leanna Ellis writes women’s fiction for B&H Publishing. Here's a bit about her latest book, Elvis Takes a Back Seat.

A young widow, determined to fulfill her husband’s last request, hauls a three foot bust of Elvis strapped in the back seat of a vintage Cadillac from Texas to Memphis to return it to its rightful owner. The road trip with her eccentric aunt, who knew the King of Rock n’ Roll, and a temperamental teen, hits roadblocks and detours as the three women uncover pieces of their own past along with the bust’s mysterious history. The discoveries change the course of their lives forever.

Go to Leanna's web site here.