Summer Reading list for September

Dear Readers,

Okay so it isn't really summer anymore, but I know that September has some great weather for reading.  (Really what month doesn't)  So I thought I would finish the Summer list.

Happy Reading,

Murder Comes by Mail – A. H. Gabhart - #2 A Hidden Springs Mystery - Deputy Sheriff Michael Keane is not thrilled with his new found fame.  Happily it is short lived when pictures of a murdered girl arrive in the mail.  now Michael is busy trying to find a killer.

There will be Stars – Billy Coffey - Bobby Barnes will not live to see old age. Either the drink will rot his insides or he will be killed on one of the many curves on the mountain roads.  He believes that such end is possible.  But after a car wreck he is left in limbo.  A place of secrets and hidden danger.  Will he and the three others trapped with him be able to find their way out?

Missing – Lisa Harris – July Release - #2 Nikki Boyd series - Nikki Boyd isn't usually called in on homicides; her forte is missing persons. But when a case with two murdered and two missing pops up on a quiet suburban street, she's ready to start the investigation and find missing homeowners Mac and Lucy Hudson. When the first clues lead her to the boat of her friend Tyler Grant--and another dead body--Nikki must untangle what ties Tyler to the Hudsons. The clues pull her into a deadly maze of counterfeit drugs and a killer who will stop at nothing to silence anyone who threatens his business--including Nikki.

The Progeny – Tosca Lee - Emily wakes up to find she remembers nothing of her past.  Nothing.  She is quickly on the run as her life is threatened by more than one person.  But she can't remember who taught her to protect herself and who are the good guys and who are the bad guys or why?  Will she find out soon enough?

The Girl From the Train – Irma Joubart - Jakob's job is to blow up a troop train.  When a prison train arrives first, killing all on board except 6 year old Grethl, Jakob takes her in and raises her.  Keeping their secrets together, Jakob sends her to South Africa where the war orphans are promised a better life.

A Worthy Heart – Susan Mason - Courage to Dream #2 - Maggie Montgomery has dreamed of seeing America.  Her dream comes true when she is able to visit her brother.  Now that she is in the land of opportunity she has no plans on returning to Ireland.

Bride From a Distant Isle – Sandra Byrd - #2 Daughters of Hampshire - Annabel Ashton is a teacher at a day school for young women.  She decides to visit her family home for a quick visit.  While there she finds herself at the mercy of her cousin.  To gain quick money he is going to sell the house and force Annabel into a marriage to a sinister man.  But is Annabel the true heir to Highcliffe?

The Bronte Plot – Katherine Reay - Lucy Alling makes her living selling in rare books.  Sometimes she uses questionable ways of getting the titles, and her underhanded dealing catches up with her and she ruins not only her relationship with her boss, but also her boyfriend.  She needs to change, but will she be able to?

Jilted - Varina Denman - #3 Mended Hearts - (backcover copy) ...tells a story of a woman who has lost the joy of living, of a man determined to draw her back toward happiness and of a town that must - once and for all - leave the past where it belongs.

From this Moment – Elizabeth Camden - Stella is the toast of London.  Her artwork has propelled her into the spotlight.  But when her sister dies under mysterious circumstances she returns to Boston to find answers.  No one will help her until she meets Romulus who is will to join forces with her in hopes she will help his magazine but doing the artwork for it.  But sparks fly when the first meet and there maybe more to their relationship than work.

Luther and Katharina – Jody Hedlund - A Novel of Love and Rebellion - Katharina von Bora thought her life at the cloister was all she could hope for.  That is until Martin Luther took on the church and challenged the cloistered life and opened a new world of possibilities to Katharina

Sister Eve and the Blue Nun – Hinton - #3 A Divine Private Detective Agency series - Sister Eve returns to her enclave only to find another murder mystery.  Someone has poisoned the researcher working on the life of the "Blue Nun."  Why would anyone want to kill over the research?  Why would the killer take the manuscripts that haven't even been read yet?

Medical Judgement – Richard Mabry M.D. - Sarah thinks life can't get any worse, but someone wants to see her suffer and is stalking her.  They set a fire in her garage and are sending threats.  As Kyle Andrews and detective Bill Larson race to find out who is after Sarah, she finds herself attracted to both me, but who can she trust?

A Fool and His Monet – Sandra Orchard - #1 Serena Jones Mystery - Serena has two passions, recovering lost and stolen art and finding her grandfather's killer.  She is hoping the first will lead to the second.  When a local museum discovers a Monet missing, she is ready to help, but it will it lead to her being in over her head?

The First Hostage – Joel Rosenberg - What if the Islamic State captured the most valuable hostage in history? The president of the United States . . . is missing. With these words, New York Times journalist J. B. Collins, report-ing from the scene of a devastating attack by ISIS terrorists in Amman, Jordan, puts the entire world on high alert. The leaders of Israel and Palestine are critically injured, Jordan's king is fighting for his life, and the U.S. president is missing and presumed captured.

The Magnolia Duchess – Beth White -#2 Gulf Coast Chronicles - Fiona Lanier is the only woman in the tiny Gulf Coast settlement of Navy Cove. While her shipbuilding family races to fill the demand for American ships brought by the War of 1812, Fiona tries to rescue her brother who was forced into service by the British Navy.

The Painter’s Daughter – Julie Klassen - Captain Stephen Overtree is use to cleaning up after his younger brother Wesley.  When Stephen arrives in Devonshire he finds that his brother has left town after leaving his host's daughter in serious trouble, he offers marriage in name only.  Will Sophie agree to the safety of the marriage or wait and see if Wesley returns to her?

The Stronghold – Lisa Carter - Tribal cop Pilar To-Clanny has seen plenty of danger, drugs, kidnapping, revenge killings, but when innocent teenage girls are disappearing she is way too familiar with.  She is joining team with Alex Torres, another part of her past she would rather forget about.

King's Folly - Jill Williamson - #1 The Kinsman chronicles - The gods are angry and after reports of a town being swallowed by the earth, the king of Armania send his son, Prince Wilek to investigate.  What Wilek finds is something much more cataclysmic that just one missing city.  Will he be able to save his country before the land crumbles around him?

Summer Reading list for August

Dear Readers,  

I know it is the second, I wasn't sure which to do first the summer list of the new releases.  I went with the new releases.  Hope that didn't throw off your summer reading.  :-)

Happy Reading, 


The Wedding Chapel – Rachel Hauck - Jimmy "Coach" Westbrook built a wedding chapel for his beloved wife.  Taylor Branson takes a photograph assignment to get away from everything, including her own marriage.  When their two stories collide they may discover their own dreams again.

If I Run – Terri Blackstock – Casey goes on the run after finding her boyfriend murdered.  She knows she will not be given a fair deal with the local police.  Dylan is hired to track her down and bring her back.  The problem is for him, the evidence of her guilt doesn’t add up.

The Inheritance – Michael Phillips - #1 Secrets of the Shetland - When Macgregor Tulloch passes away, everyone assumes that his grand-nephew will inherit the estate, but when no will is found it throws not only the estate into turmoil, but also the people that rely on them for jobs.  Will the true heir ever be found?  And who is this stranger from America that shows up suddenly?

Cold Shot - Dani Pettrey- #1 Chesapeake Valor - Four best friend from college, then one goes missing. Years have passed and Griffin is now a park ranger.  He is hiding from his dark past, but when a body is found in the Civil War park he works at, his past and present collide.

Messenger by Moonlight – Stephanie Whitson - A novel about the pony express - Annie and her two brothers are looking for a place to settle.  Her brothers see an advertisement for the pony express and take the job and finding her one in a remote outpost.  The cantankerous owner seems to just be waiting for Annie to fail. Will she be able to prove him wrong?  

Playing the Part – Jen Turano - - Lucetta's admirer suddenly takes on a threatening tone.  She is whisked away to Abigail Hart's grandson's estate.  He isn't quite what he seems to be and Lucetta can't ignore what is going on.  But will it turn dangerous also? 

The Feathered Bone – Julie Cantrell - Amanda Salassi is a chaperone for her daughter's 6th grade class trip to New Orleans.  When on the girls on the trip goes missing, Amanda spirals into depression and guilt.  Will she ever be able to move past the lost or will it cost her everything?

Lead Me Home – Amy Sorrells - Abandoned by his no-good father and forced to grow up too soon, Noble Burden has set his dreams aside to run the family farm. Meanwhile, James Horton, the pastor of the local church, questions his own calling as he prepares to close the doors for good.

As a severe storm rolls through, threatening their community and very livelihood, both men fear losing what they care about most . . . and reconsider where they truly belong.

Mrs. Lee and Mrs. Gray – Dorothy Love – June Release - A general’s wife and a slave girl forge a friendship that transcends race, culture, and the crucible of Civil War.

Annabel Lee – Mike Nappa - #1 A Coffey and Hill Novel - Annabel Lee's "Uncle" has hidden her in a bunker deep in the Alabama swamp.  Trudi Coffey is hired to find a secret for a Dr. Smith.  She doesn't know that the secret is Annabel Lee.  She just knows she can't trust Dr. Smith and she needs to contact her ex.

A Bachelor Girl’s Guide to Murder – Rachel McMillan - #1 Herringford & Watts Mysteries - 1910 Toronto.  Merinda and Jem are not your typical young girls.  They are not interested in perfecting their domestic skills and finding a husband.  They would rather track down the murderer of young Irish women.

Code 13 – Don Brown - #2 Navy Jag Series - Caroline is getting use to her new job at Code 13.  When her co-worker is gunned down in cold blood, she vows to find his killer.  As she starts to complete what he was working on, it becomes clear she is the next target.

The Calling –Rachel Dekker - #2 A Seer Novel - A series that started with The Calling, continues.  Remko and Carrington launch an all-out assault of the City and all they hold dear.  Spreading the word of hope.  But as they grow stronger the Authority works harder to destroy them.

Summer Reading list - July

Dear Readers,

Here are a few summer reading ideas for July.  Again in no particular order. 

Happy Reading, 

Delilah – Angela Hunt - Everyone knows Delilah's story.  Her great love Samson and how she betrayed him for riches.  But what made her really do it?  Was it just the gold and fame or was there another reason behind her needing the money?

The Secret to Hummingbird Cake - Celeste Fletcher McHale - 3 women, friends since 1st grade, continue to live life together.  Fun, silly at times and yet powerful.  (know there is some strong langugue in this book.)

The Red Door Inn – Liz Johnson - #1 Prince Edward Island Dreams - Marie and Seth agree on only one thing.  Helping Seth's Uncle get his dream B&B open in time for tourist season.  Marie is hiding from her overbearing father and Seth is trying to heal from his broken heart.  

Step by Step – Janice Calvert - Crisis Team #1 - Taylor Cabot is moving on from the lose of her husband.  She is ready to start checking things off her "survival list."  One she wasn't planning on was to find love again until she meets a handsome surgeon.  

Always Watching – Lynette Eason - #1 Elite Guardians - Wade Savage has a stalker.  His father hires one of the Elite Guardians to protect him.  When that guardian is almost killed in the line of duty, Olivia steps in.  Not only will her skills be tested in keeping Wade alive, her heart is in danger also.

Sea Rose Inn – Irene Hannon - #4 A Hope Harbor Novel - Eric returns to Hope Harbor and his old home to regroup and find a new career path.  The problem is his family home has been turned into a B&B, a noisy one at that.  BJ Stevens is determined to get her client's dream up and running and Eric is a distraction that she doesn't need.

Traces of Guilt – Dee Henderson  - An Evie Blackwell Cold Case #1 - Evie Blackwell loves her job as a detective.  She looks forward to starting a new cold case task force.  Her first job leads her to Gabriel Thane's home town.  The case she is working on is one he has history with and he is not sure he is ready to reopen it or find the answers.

The Ringmaster’s Wife – Kristy Cambron – June - In turn-of-the-century America, a young girl dreams of a world that stretches beyond the confi nes of a quiet life on the family farm. With little more than her wit and a cigar box of treasures, Mable steps away from all she knows, seeking the limitless marvels of the Chicago World’s Fair. There, a chance encounter triggers her destiny—a life with a famed showman by the name of John Ringling.

Dawn at Emberwilde – Sara Ladd - #2 A Treasure of Surrey - Isabel was never happy at Fellsworth School, but a teaching job there will help her and her sister find a stable life.  When unknown relatives show up, Isabel's life is turned upside down and she now has to learn a whole different set of rules to live by.

The Atonement – Beverly Lewis - The mistakes of the past haunt Lucy Flaud, who years ago stopped attending the activities for courting-age young people in her hometown of Bird-in-Hand. Now twenty-five and solidly past the age of Amish courtship, Lucy has given up any hope of marriage, instead focusing her efforts on volunteering in both the Plain and fancy communities of Lancaster County. Yet no matter how hard Lucy strives, she feels uncertain that she'll ever find redemption.

Someone Like You – Victoria Bylin - Julia is working hard to make a good life for herself and her son.  When a big account comes in she will be spending time at Caliente Springs resort.  Little does she know that it will bring her face to face with her college sweetheart.  Zeke is more interested in keeping the resort afloat that renewing their old relationship, but his heart tells him otherwise.

What Happened on Beale Street – Mary Ellis - #2 Secrets of the South Mysteries - Nate and Nicki are called to New Orleans by a childhood friend.  When they arrive, he is missing and they are left with few clues as to what happened to him.  The choirboy reputation that Danny had before he disappeared does not fit the trail they are lead on to find him.

Summer Reading list for June

Dear Readers,

I am going to post summer reading ideas at the beginning of every month this summer.  Instead of over whelming you with ideas and books I will just list a few good ones and you can pick and choose.  If you want the entire list, please feel free to stop in the store and pick one up or contact me and I will be glad to mail you one.   

In no particular order, these are all great summer reads.  Historical, contemporary and fantasy.  Murder and Mayhem alongside of romantic comedy.  They are all worth taking along to the beach, camping out or just finding your favorite spot in the yard. 

Happy Reading, 

Land of Silence – Tessa Afshar - Elianna is a young woman whom life has not always played fair.  She is taken into father's business only after her brother dies.  When her father dies she is put in charge, isolating her from more and more people.  When illness strikes, she is even forced away from everything.  That is until she hears about a Galilean who is healing people.

The Shock of Night – Patrick Carr - #1 The Darkwater Saga - Willet Dura is called to investigate the murder of one man and the wounding of a priest. When Willet questions the priest, he is screamed at in a foreign tongue and then the priest dies.  Will Willet be able to find the killer before he strikes again.

The Quieting – Suzanne Woods Fisher - #2 the Bishop's Family - With the Amish church of Stoney Ridge facing a crisis, minister David Stoltzfus must decide if a Quieting will solve the problem . . . or make it worse.

Counted With the Stars – Cossette- #1 Out from Egypt - The story of Kiya a women sold into slavery, rejected by the man she was supposed to marry.  Kiya watches the plagues unfold on Egypt and decides to flee with the Israelites.  Now she has to choose between the past she knows and an unknown future.

Room for Hope – Kim Vogel Sawyer - Neva Shilling has a heavy load of responsibility while her husband travels to neighboring communities and sells items from his wagon.  When a wagon pulls up after supper, Neva and her children rush out—and into the presence of the deputy driving a wagon carrying three young children. The deputy shocks her with the news that Warren and his wife have died, insisting it was their last request that the three children go live with “Aunt Neva.”

Together at the Table – Hillary Manton Lodge - #3 Two Blue Doors series - Finally the long awaited 3rd book in the series.  Juliette's life is changing.  Her mother is not doing well, her relationship with Neil ended and her new restaurant just opened.  She is also still looking for the answers to her family's history.  

No Other will Do – Karen Witemeyer - Emma started a women's only colony for females who need a fresh start.  But someone is trying to drive the women out and is becoming more and more dangerous.  Emma knows she needs a man, but one that can fight.  Malachi is that man and when he gets word he hurries back to the girl who saved his life.  Only she isn't a girl anymore.

When Death Draws Near – Carrie Stuart Parks – August release - #3 Gwen Marcey - Forensic artist Gwen Marcey is between jobs when she accepts temporary work in Pikeville, Kentucky—a small town facing big-city crime. But before Gwen can finish her first drawing of the serial rapist who is on the loose, the latest witness vanishes. Just like all the others.

Sister Dear – Laura McNeill - Allie returns home after serving 10 years for a crime she didn't commit.  No one believes her innocence, but Allie is determined to prove she is.  What she uncovers threatens not only her parole, but also her personal safety and her family.

The Reluctant Duchess – Roseanna M. White - #2 Ladies of the Manor - Lady Rowena Kinnaird struggles with self-esteem and when a shocking attack she flees the highland forever.  Brice Myerston is not looking to find a wife, especially since finding a treasure others would kill for.  But the more they try to stay apart, the more they are attracted to each other.  But is Rowena in even more danger?

Summer Reading list 2015 part 2

Dear Readers,

Here is the summer reading list part 2. 

Happy Reading,

The Last Heiress – Mary Ellis - Amanda sails to North Carolina from England to restore shipments to the family's textile mills.  The Civil war has interfered with shipments.  Of course meeting with Nathaniel and falling in love were not part of the plans for Amanda.  Will the war interrupt once again?

No Place to Hide – Lynette Eason - #3 Hidden Identity - Jackie is shock to see her childhood friend on TV wanted for a connection to a terrorist plot.  She is ready to help in any way she can, but she maybe in over her head. 

Then Sings My Soul - Amy K. Sorrells - Nel returns home to bury her mother and finds her father in a battle with dementia.  When strange things get delivered to their home, she is drawn to her father's past and what it means to her and her future.

Mist of Midnight – Sandra Byrd - #1 Daughters of Hampshire - Rebecca is returning to Hampshire after losing her family and friends in the Mutiny in India.  She returns to her family's home ready to claim it, but the locals are suspicious of her as less than a year ago a woman showed up claiming to be Rebecca.

How to Catch a Prince - Rachel Hauck - The Royal Wedding series - Heiress Corina seemed destined to marry a prince, until war kept them apart.  As she emerges from the fog of grief she is ready to move on and pursue her career.  Prince Stephen is confronted by his brother the king about his past and now must come clean about what happened.

The Wood’s Edge – Lori Benton - Major Reginald Aubrey is beside himself with grief.  His infant son has died and when he sees an Oneida mother with twins, he decides to leave his dead son for her white baby.  His actions that day will change everything for all those involved.

A Sparrow in Terezin – Kristy Cambron -Sera James feels like she is living a charmed life until a legal battle threatens everything.  She hastily weds her fiancé and as the trial goes on, he is facing years behind bars.  Kaja escapes Germany before the rise of Hitler, but now her family is faced with death and the camps and she must return to help them escape

A Thing of Beauty – Lisa Samson - Fiona walked away from stardom right after she left rehab.  She had plans for her future, but 10 years later all she has is a piece of twine with some buttons on it and a house full of junk. 

5 Brides – Eva Marie Everson – Releases in June – Five very different women, one dress.  None with a serious boyfriend, but they buy the Wedding dress anyways.  What journey will each women take to finally be able to wear that dress?

Jaded - Varina Denman - (from the backcover) "As a child, Ruthie is shunned by the local congregation.  Now, 13 years later, Ruthie's heart begins to stir when an attractive single pastor arrives.  But their relationship is bitterly opposed, and a string of secrets are unearthed."

Not By Sight – Kate Breslin – Releases in August – Set during WWI.  Grace believes she is showing great patriotism when she decides to sneak into a posh party and hand Jack Benningham a white feather.  One to show his cowardice.  But what she doesn’t know is the chain of events she puts in motion once she accomplishes the deed. 

Drawing Fire – Janice Cantore – Releases in August - #1 Cold Case Justice – Abby is anxious to capture the serial killer of elderly women.  Her most reliable witness is an annoying private investigator who may have more ties to her that she planned on.  Will they be able to stop the killer before he strikes again?

A Love like Ours - Becky Wade - (from the backcover) Former Marine Jake Porter has far deeper scars that the ones that mark his face.  He struggles with symptoms of PTSD, lives a solitary life and avoids relationships.  That is until childhood friend Lyndie re-enters his life.

As Water Gone By - Cynthia Ruchti - Emmalyn husband is serving a 5 year sentence.  She is struggling to survive a marriage while being alone.  A self-sentenced exile to Madeline Island may provide a roof over her head, but a home needs so much more than a roof and walls.

The Inn at Ocean's Edge - Colleen Coble - A Sunset Cove novel - On her 4th birthday, Claire disappears.  Mysteriously she reappears a year later with no explanation as to where she was or who had her.  Luke's mother disappeared about the same time and it seems the two mysteries are linked.

Hollywood Lost - Ace Collins - Hollywood's Golden Age is tainted by someone who is murdering beautiful women.  Shelby just wanted to have a job, but her job makes her a target for the murderer.  Will she survive with her morals intact or will the Hollywood strangler claim another victim. 

Deception on Sable Hill - Shelley Gray - #2 A Chicago World's Fair Mystery - Eloisa appears have it all.  But she has a dark secret.  She was assaulted months ago and has told no one that is until she meets Detective Sean Ryan.  Now with a person assaulting debutants, Sean makes it his mission to protect Eloisa from the killer.

Conversations with Saint Bernard - Jim Kraus - George Gibson is crossing off the last item on his bucket list.  The trip across America he and his wife could never take.  Along the way his daughter encourages him to adopt a Saint Bernard.  Lewis and George become traveling companions and George is able to start the healing process.

Anna's Crossing - Suzanne Woods Fisher - An Amish Begins Novel - Anna sets sail with her fellow Amish believers for the new world.  She goes as a translator only and hopes to return home soon.  Bairn resents the "Peculiars" as the deck hands call them, but there is something about the bonny lass Anna that has caught his attention.

Summer Reading List part 1

Dear Readers,

Here is my summer reading list for 2015.  Once again I had a hard time narrowing down the list as there has been so many good reads this past 12 months.  They are not in any particular order and are all available at our store or on bakerbookstore.com. 

Next week will be the second installment.

Happy Reading.

Summer Reading 2015

Until the Harvest – Sarah Loudin Thomas – Henry's plans for his future are derailed by the death of him father.  He no longer can afford college and his mother needs help around the house.  The only things keeping his spirits up are his fiddle and his friendship with Mayfair Hoffma.  Mayfair's older sister on the other hand is more of annoying...

The Covered Deep – Brandy Vallance - Operation First Novel - Biance is looking for a man who can quote Shakespeare and Jesus equally.  But they are hard to find in her little back water hometown.  So when she wins a trip to London and Palestine she may finally find her true love.  

Mercy’s Rain – Cindy K. Sproles - Mercy only knows a faith under her abusive father.  She takes matters into her own hands and runs away from home and learns about true mercy and the faith that is about love and not anger.

The Third Target – Joel Rosenberg – What if ISIS got a weapon of mass destruction?  J.B. Collins hears rumors that has happened and heads to the Middle East to find out if the rumors are true.

Tiffany Girls – Deeanne Gist - The story of Flossie and the "Tiffany Girls" that were hired to finish the Stained Glass Mosaic Chapel for Louis Tiffany in time for the 1893 World's Fair.  Flossie was handpicked to help complete the task and she is excited to become an independent woman.

Lizzy and Jane – Katherine Reay - Lizzy and Jane have had a difficult relationship. Partly because of their age difference and partly because of what happened when their mother died.  Jane now is fighting breast cancer and Elizabeth, as she is now know by, arrives to help.

Shadow of the Mountain – Exodus – Cliff Graham - Caleb awaits with the nation of Israel to attack the city of giants, Hebron.  As the warriors wait for the weather to clear, Caleb shares is story with a younger officer.  The one of how Yahweh had his hand on Caleb even before he believed.

The Art of Losing Yourself – Katie Ganhert - Carmen looks like a woman who has it all together.  On the inside she struggles with doubt and whether she made a mistake marring her husband.  When her 17 year old sister shows up, maybe Carmen will find the answers to her questions.

By Your Side – Candace Calvert - ER Nurse and foster care survivor, Macy has one motto:  Land on your feet and trust no one.  When she finds the one person she loves like a sister, Macy finds herself butting heads with a cop.   

Maggie Bright – Tracy Groot - Across the Channel the British Army is in full retreat.  Caught between the Blitzkrieg and the ocean, they face certain disaster.  When Churchill recruits the civilian brigade to come to their rescue.

Buried Secrets – Irene Hannon - #1 Men of Valor - Things are supposed to be quiet in a small town.  Lisa Grant, recently from Chicago, was hoping that.  A discovery of a human skeleton puts her on the hunt for a killer who will do anything to keep from being found out, including kill again.

The Love Letters – Beverly Lewis – Marlena did not expect to spend the summer taking care of her sister’s baby.  But she is determined to not let that get her life off track.   But will her hopes for her future become completely altered by what happens this summer?

Reservations for Two – Hillary Manton Lodge - #2 Fresh Flavors and New Horizons novel - Juliette and Neil continue their tour of Provence and Tuscany.  With more answers about her grandmother, they return home to difficulties in their long distance relationship.

Secrets of a Charmed Life – Susan Meissner - The story of two sisters during WWII.  Moved to the country to keep them safe, they are separated and how their lives are transformed.  The story of a American scholar who uncovers their story and the burden it places on her heart.

The Secret of Pembrooke Park – Julie Klassen -  Abigail and her father are offered the use of Pembrooke Park.  They accept the offer before finding out that Pembrooke has a secret.  A secret more than one person is looking to find.  Abigail goes seeking the treasure that is hidden, will she find it before the others?

Checkmate – Steven James - The Bowers File - The final installment of the Bowers File, sad to see this series end.  Patrick is racing to stop an attack on US soil.  One that could prove to be even more deadly than 911.

Beyond all Dreams - Elizabeth Camden - Anna is willing to lead a very quiet life until a mystery catches her attention.  Joining forces with Congressman Luke Callahan to solve the mystery might end up costing both of them their dreams and maybe more.

Spy of Richmond – Jocelyn Green - Heroines Behind the Lines - Civil War #4 - With everything at risk and suspicion growing, Sophie Kent has to decide if it is worth it.  A Unionist living Richmond is not an easy life and being a spy makes it twice as dangerous.

Taken – Dee Henderson - Shannon just wants a normal life.  Kidnapped and used by the Jacoby crime family, Shannon just wants out.  But getting out might cost her her life.  Will Private Investigator Matthew Dane be able to help her find her freedom and keep her life?

The Choosing – Rachelle Dekker - A Seer Novel #1 - When Carrington is chosen for the Lints, the lowest level of society, she believes her life is over.  Hints of a rebellion get her attention and then the promise of being chosen offer a greater hope.  Which is reality and which is just an illusion to secure her loyalty.

The Story Keeper – Lisa Wingate - Jen is drawn into a manuscript that was hiding in the slush file on her desk.  As she starts researching where it comes from it starts to bring her back to a place she thought she would never return to.

A.D.30 – Ted Dekker -The Story of an outcast daughter of a Bedouin sheikh, who goes seeking help from the Roman empire and instead finds a different kind of savior.  

Summer Reading list - part III

Dear Readers,

This is the last installment of my summer reading list.  It was long this year, but not long enough as more and more titles come in.  Enjoy these titles and then look for more as we get new titles every day.

Happy Reading,

Dear Mr. Knightley – Katherine Reay - Sam hides in her books, her only friends lie between the pages of the classics like Austen, Dickens and Shakespeare.  The problem is she lives in the real world.  When a mentor offers a free passage to college she finds out what it means to really be loved and how to be a friend.

The Traitor's Wife - Allison Pataki - We all know about Benedict Arnold and the most notorious act of treason in America's history, but did you know that he was drawn into the act by his much younger wife.  Peggy Shippen was loyal to the British, she is the one who hatches the plan to turn West Point over to the British.

The Pursuit of Tamsen Little John - Lori Benton - Tamsen escapes the life of hardship under her step-father and an arranged marriage with Jesse Bird.  What she finds is harder than she imagined, but maybe just what she is seeking.

Sing for Me - Karen Halvorsen Schreck - Set in 1937.  Rose Sorenson longs for something more than just the hymns she sings at church.  Introduced to the world of Jazz clubs, she finds an exciting place that offers her what she wants.

Where Courage Calls - Janette Oke & Laurel Oke Logan - When Calls the Heart novel - This book compliments the new series on the Hallmark Channel.  Set in the Canadian frontier it brings us back to Janette's much loved Canadian West series.

Songs of the Shenandoah - Michael K. Reynolds - An Heirs of Ireland Novel - (from the back cover) In this dramatic conclusion to the Heirs of Ireland series... the clash of loyalties and beliefs threatens an entire family. 

The First Phone Call From Heaven - Mitch Albom - On the same morning that Sully Harding is released from prison is when the first phone calls start happening.  Phone calls from people to their loved ones.  Which doesn't sound so unusual except the one that is calling is dead.  Sully sets out to prove it is all faked by someone with a sick sense of humor.

Stones for Bread - Christa Parrish - Liesl's world is all about bread.  Her heritage, her job, her life.  That is until those who surround her start interfering.  The troubled teen her head baker brings in, the waitress who summits a recipe to a cooking show, and the flour guys who thinks he can win her affection.

Strait of Hormuz - David Bunn - One call and Marc Royce is once again on an assignment.  He is trying to find the threat to world peace and safety stretching from Asia to the Middle East.

Heart Failure - Richard L. Mabry M.D. - Medical thrillers at its best.  Carrie found a second love almost to good to be true.  Then Adam confesses that he is on the run from the witness program and now they are both in danger.

I, Saul - Jerry Jenkins with James MacDonald  - What if a manuscript written by Paul was found completely intact in spite of being stored in the walls of his prison cell?  Augie finds out when he gets a call from a friend who say he needs help.

A Beauty so Rare - Tamera Alexander - #2 A Belmont Mansion Novel - Eleanor never plans on marring, but her aunt has other idea for her.  While Eleanor tries to start a place for widows and orphans of the civil war, her aunt is trying to marry her to a man she doesn't love.

The Amish Groom - Mindy Starns Clark/Susan Meissner - #1 the Men of Lancaster County - Torn between two worlds, Tyler needs to decide if he is going stay in the Amish community where he was raised after his mother passed or return to the Englisch world that his father is part of.

What Follows After - Dan Walsh - (Not part of the series he is working on with Gary Smalley) Scott and Gina's marriage is over.  They have carried out a lie for over a year, but their sons, Colt and Timmy are sick of it.  So they decide to run away and force their parents to back together.

The Devil Walks in Mattingly - Billy Coffey - (from the back cover) For three people, secretly complicit in a young man's death, redemption is their most precious desire... and the last thing any of them ever expect to receive.

My Mother's Chamomile - Susie Finkbeiner - The Eliot family is used to assisting people in the time of their greatest need, now they will need comforting and support for others.  Will they make it through the drought to find God's promises of comfort again?

 

Summer Reading List - Part II

Dear Readers,

Part II of the list is a bit longer than the first, but I thought instead of drawing out the list for several weeks, I would get it a bit quicker for your summer reading.  The third installment in next week.

Happy Reading,

Meant to be Mine – Becky Wade – After a whirlwind wedding, Celia is ready to be Ty’s wife, but Ty is not ready to be a husband.  After 5 years, Ty returns to the woman and child he left behind.

Silenced – Dani Pettrey - #4 Alaskan Courage series – Kayden is out for a relaxing climb when she comes face to face with a dead body.  Is it murder? 

Here to Stay – Melissa Tagg – Blake is ready to settle down, but Autumn is ready to be anywhere but Whisper Shores.  Her dream job in Paris is waiting, until Blake asks her to help him with planning the Christmas festival.

Runaway Saint – Lisa Samson - Sara seems to have her life completely together, a supportive husband, a hip business, and a house that is the envy of the neighborhood.  That is on the surface.  Underneath she is restless and when a long lost Aunt shows up unexpectedly on her doorstep, everything comes to the forefront.

Life Support – Candace Calvert - #3 Grace Medical - Nurse Lauren puts her life on hold to help her sister.  Elijah is at odds with his father over the care of his disabled brother.  They need each other, but they seem more at odds with each other than able to get along.

How Sweet the Sound – Amy Sorrels - 3 generations come together on the family plantation in Alabama where 13 year old Anniston finds love and forgiveness that only God can give.

Dancing with Fireflies – Denise Hunter - A Chapel Springs Romance #3- Jade McKinley couldn’t wait to leave Chapel Spring behind, but now she is forced to return.  Daniel has loved Jade for years, and now he has a second chance to win her love.

For Such a Time – Kate Breslin - Stella Muller isn't whom she seems to be.  She is really a Jewess hiding in plain sight.  She is able to work for a German while working to save her people from the death camps.

Smitten Book Club – Colleen Coble/Denise Hunter/Diann Hunt/Kristin Billerbeck - Heather finds an old book written by former Smitten resident Pearl Chambers, little does she know how that book will change her life.

Butterfly Palace – Colleen Coble - When Lily recognizes the man that abandoned her at a dinner party, her past and present collide.  The Servant Girl Murder is moving closer and she feels trapped in a web that is closing in on her.

A Draw of Kings – Patrick Carr - #3 Sword and the Staff - The awaited conclusion to the series.  Can Errol and his band of friends save their country from threats within and outside their borders?

The Fall of Marigolds – Susan Meissner - Two women connected over the years by a beautiful scarf.  A scarf that arrives in their lives at a time when they needed reminding that they are loved

Summer of Joy – Ann H. Gabhart - #3 The Heart of Hollyhill - re-release- As the summer of 1964 draws to a close, two people arrive in Hollyhill.  Each one comes for a different reason, but each will stir things up for Jocie and her family.

Death by the Book – Julianna Deering - #2 A Drew Farthering Mystery - Drew and Madeline are once again involved in a murder mystery.  This one is puzzling them as there seems to be no connection between the victims.

The Dancing Master – Julie Klassen -Regency romance - Alec is hoping for a fresh start for himself and his family in remote Devonshire as a dance teacher.  Julia's mother has an unwritten rule against dancing in their small village.  Both families have secrets that just don't want to stay hidden.  

All Things Hidden – Tracie Peterson/Kimberly Woodhouse - Gwyn loves being a nurse for her father and hates change.  Their little town is about to have major changes to it and she isn't sure she is ready for it.

Shadowed by Grace –Cara Putman - The story of the Monument Men - Rachel takes her newspaper's assignment in Italy to find a father she never knew.  While there her story gets her involved with Monument Men and their quest to save works of art and monuments from the Third Reich.

The Sentinels of Andersonville - Tracy Groot - (from the dust jacket)  "Near the end of the Civil War, inhumane conditions at Andersonville Prison caused the deaths of 13,000 Union soldiers in 14 months.:"  This is the story of 3 Confederates and their fight to improve what was happening in their town.

Sweet Olive – Judy Christie - Camille has one final job to finish for the oil company that her family owns.  She is ready to move on to her real passion of running an art gallery, but first she has to return to the town that was the scene of the worst week of her life

The Prayer Box – Lisa Wingate - Tandi is running from her past, but when she is given the tasks of cleaning out Lola's Victorian House, she finds that years’ worth of prayer boxes.  They tell a story of an unassuming women and her journey of faith.

Return to Me – Lynn Austin – 1 The Restoration Chronicles - The Jews are ready to return to Israel and rebuild the temple.  But who will lead them?

A Broken Kind of Beautiful – Katie Ganshert - Ivy Clark has only known the fashion industry.  As her career seems to be coming to an end, will she be able to find herself in something besides her looks.

Bridge to Haven – Francine Rivers -After a 3 year wait Francine delights us with a tale of Hollywood's golden age.  

Distortion – Terri Blackstock - Moonlighters Series #2 - Juliet sees her husband murdered by what she thought was a random shooting, until she arrives back home and hears the threatening voicemail.  She realizes that she and her children are at risk until she can figure out all the secrets of his past.

Summer Reading list 2014

Dear Readers,

With Monday being Memorial day I thought I would start releasing my summer reading suggestions.  Not ever good book is on the list as I think this year it would be about 6 or 7 pages long.  They are not in any particular order, I recommend them all, just pick out the ones you would like best and enjoy.

This year you can map your summer reading road trip out.  Amy at Bethany Publishing gave me the idea and I thought it sounded like fun.  Grab a map or let me know and I can send you one, and color in the state that the book (s) that you are reading is set in.  See how many states you can visit before Labor Day.

Happy Reading,

P.S. I will be sharing more of the list as dates and time allow.  If you want the complete list right away, please contact me and I will mail you a copy or you can stop by the store and pick up a copy in the fiction department. 

All My Belonging – Cynthia Ruchti - (From the back cover) Where do you turn when changing your name doesn't give you the anonymity you want? 

One Perfect Spring – Irene Hannon - Keith had no idea that the letter that lands on his desk will change everything for not only himself and the letter writer, but those around him also.

Critical Condition – Richard L. Mabry -What is supposed to be a quiet dinner party turns into a scene of a murder when a stranger is killed on Shannon's front yard.  Now there is someone wanting to know what he said before the stranger died and he will stop at nothing to find out. 

Scarlett Says – Julie Cannon - Scarlett's muse is a fictional character, Scarlett O'Hara.  She uses Scarlett's devil may care attitude to write her blog and give advice that she normally wouldn't.  But when one of her first readers offers her a chance at a life outside of make believe, Scarlett isn't sure she is ready.

Visible Threat – Julie Cantore - book #3 of the Brinna Caruso series - Brinna is asked to help solve the murder of a young lady found with a strange tattoo on her hip.  What Brinna finds is something more dangerous than anything she experienced before, a human trafficking ring.

Just 18 Summers – Rene Gutteridge/Michelle Cox - (from the back cover) "With just 18 summers before their children are grown, how do (parents) make the most of that time when life gets in the way."

The Queen’s Handmaiden – Tracy L. Higley - Lydia is the handmaiden to Cleopatra and her young son.  But when Lydia's mentor is murder, she decides to deliver the old scrolls to Jerusalem herself.  Can she deliver them safely before they fall into the wrong hands and are destroyed forever?

The Auschwitz Escape – Joel Rosenberg - (From the backcover) "Evil, unchecked is the prelude to genocide."  Jacob works for the resistance in Belgium.  When he and his fellow workers attempt a daring rescue of a train headed to Auschwitz, Jacob becomes trapped in one of the cars.  Once at Auschwitz all he can think of is escape.

A Table by the Window – Hillary Manton Lodge - first novel of Family Secrets and Heirloom Recipes - Juliette writes for a food magazine, but she is unsure of what she really wants to do with her life.  When her brother Nico offers a chance to open a new restaurant together she is unsure what to do. 

Pelican Bride – Beth White -  #1 Gulf Coast Chronicles - Genevieve Gaillain agrees to be a bride to a man working in the new world to escape her painful past, what she finds is love and that nothing can be hide forever.

Woman of Courage – Wanda Brunstetter - Amanda gives up on romance and decides to follow fellow missionary couple Rev. and Mrs. Spalding over the mountains.  Her first convert is the wife of a trapper who saves her life, but he and a fellow trapper want nothing to do with Christians.

The Fearful Gates – Ross Lawhead - #3 the Ancient Earth Trilogy - (from the backcover) "The army is gathered.  The Alliance for good is holed up in the Langtorr.  The fate of Britain - and the world - will be decided in the events of a single day... a day when the Fearful Gates are finally opened, and the mystery that lies behind them is revealed."