November / December 2009
The following reviews, interviews and features are running on FaithfulReader.com for the months of November and December.
Faithful Fiction
THE CHRISTMAS SECRET by Donna VanLiere (Fiction)
When Christine Eisley saves the life of a woman who works in Wilson’s department store, the owner of Wilson’s wants to find her and thank her, but Christine has disappeared. He sets his grandson, Jason, to the task of finding the mysterious “Christy.” Jason, an accountant by trade who has lost his job to downsizing, thinks he is “above” working at Wilson’s. Soon, he discovers that this new task gives him more than he bargains for.
THE SOUND OF SLEIGH BELLS by Cindy Woodsmall (Fiction)
Remorse and loneliness echo inside Beth Hertzler from the life she once had. Children’s whispers and laughter call to her from a life she only dreams of. A gifted carver holds the answer to both within his hands --- but can Beth step beyond yesterday and into the joy of Christmas? Reviewed by Melanie Smith.
THE CHRISTMAS DOG by Melody Carlson (Fiction)
Betty Kowalski isn't looking forward to the holidays. She just can't seem to find Christmas in her heart. Maybe it's because her husband is gone. Maybe it's because she's missing her children. Or maybe it has something to do with her obnoxious new neighbor. But when a mangy dog appears at her doorstep, the stage is set for Betty to learn what Christmas is really all about. Reviewed by Melanie Smith.
THE GREAT CHRISTMAS BOWL by Susan May Warren (Fiction)
Marianne Wallace loves the holidays. But when her children begin to leave home --- and their traditions --- behind, she has one last chance to create a holiday they’ll never forget. Heartwarming and hilarious, THE GREAT CHRISTMAS BOWL is a story about family, traditions and rediscovering the real magic of Christmas. Reviewed by Susan Miura.
FINDING CHRISTMAS: Stories of Startling Joy and Perfect Peace, by James Calvin Schaap (Fiction/Short Stories)
Join award-winning author and storyteller James Calvin Schaap as he uncovers the grace, joy and love of the season through seven heartwarming tales of miracle moments in a messy world. This beautiful and inspiring collection of contemporary Christmas stories will remind you what grace looks like --- and where to find it. Reviewed by Evelyn Bence.
SEASIDE LETTERS: A Nantucket Love Story, by Denise Hunter (Romance)
Sabrina Kincaid detachedly serves Tucker McCabe breakfast daily at the Cobblestone Café in Nantucket, but the two spend evenings at a local online venue, connecting through aliases of “Sweetpea” and “Harbormaster.” Whereas real-life interactions have been cold and impersonal, communicating anonymously has allowed the two to become close. But neither has revealed who they really are, so once Tucker tries to find the person behind Sweetpea, their relationships --- both online and face-to-face --- take one wicked turn after another. Reviewed by Melanie Smith.
Christian Living
GRACE NOTES: Daily Readings with a Fellow Pilgrim,by Philip Yancey (Devotional)
Philip Yancey has accomplished what many writers plan to do “some day.” He has compiled a magnitude of thought-provoking ideas and served them up in 366 easily digestible portions. Whether you have read all of Yancey’s award-winning books or are discovering him for the first time, GRACE NOTES will touch your mind, your heart and your spirit on many levels. Reviewed by Maggie Harding.
SOUVENIRS OF SOLITUDE: Finding Rest in Abba's Embrace, by Brennan Manning (Christian Living/Spiritual Growth)
The most reliable guides of spiritual formation pinpoint solitude and silence as central to the spiritual life. Now Brennan Manning --- in his honest, original and winning way --- shares from his own experiences to prompt you into the riches of spending time alone with God at rest in His presence. Reviewed by Margaret Oines.
PURE PLEASURE: Why Do Christians Feel So Bad About Feeling Good? by Gary L. Thomas (Christian Living)
Popular spiritual author Gary Thomas invites you to shake off the shackles of misunderstanding about sin and experience the liberating power of living a life of holy pleasure ––– a life that feeds your relationships, protects your spiritual integrity, and energizes your worship and service. Reviewed by Margaret Oines.
HOLY GROUND: Walking With Jesus as a Former Catholic, by Chris Castaldo (Christian Life)
Chris Castaldo takes readers on a fascinating and practical exploration of the challenges and opportunities encountered by Catholics who become Evangelicals. More than just theological insight and historical background, HOLY GROUND shows you how to emulate the grace and truth of Jesus as you relate to your own Catholic past and the Catholic faith of those you love. Reviewed by Michele Howe.
Marriage and Family Life
THE SMART STEPMOM: Practical Steps to Help You Thrive!, by Ron L. Deal and Laura Petherbridge (Parenting)
In today's complicated stepfamily, the stepmom often doesn't know where to turn for help. Stepfamily expert Ron Deal and experienced stepmom Laura Petherbridge shows you how to survive and thrive as a stepmom. Here is the hope, encouragement and practical information to assure you that you are not alone in the stepmom journey. Reviewed by Michele Howe.
Books into Movies
The Christmas Hope, based on THE CHRISTMAS HOPE by Donna VanLiere
Airs December 13th at 8 PM ET on Lifetime Movie Network
When lives intertwine during Christmas, hope is the one unifying gift. After suffering a personal tragedy, Patty Addison, a social worker, throws herself into finding homes for children in need. With her marriage to Mark, an airline pilot, on the rocks, Patty feels it’s the wrong time to temporarily take in nine-year-old Emily, who has just lost her single mother in a terrible car accident. However, sweet Emily quickly wins over Patty and Mark. As the Addisons start to reconnect with each other, it’s revealed that their teenage son, Sean, had perished in a car accident as well, two years earlier.
Features
The Interviews of 2009
As 2009 comes to a close, we invite you to take a look at the author interviews that were featured throughout the year on FaithfulReader.com. This is a great way to catch up on the discussions you may have missed --- and to re-read what some of your favorite authors had to say about their books.
About the Books
HER MOTHER’S HOPE: Marta’s Legacy, Book 1 by Francine Rivers (Historical Fiction)
On Sale March 16, 2010
The first in an epic two-book saga by beloved author Francine Rivers, this sweeping story explores the complicated relationships between mothers and daughters over several generations. Near the turn of the 20th century, fiery Marta leaves Switzerland determined to find life on her own terms. Her journey takes her through Europe and finally lands her with children and husband in tow in the central valley of California.
- Click here to read Francine Rivers’s bio.
Study Guides
A VOICE IN THE WIND: Mark of the Lion, Book 1 by Francine Rivers (Historical Fiction)
This first book in the classic bestselling Mark of the Lion series brings readers back to the first century and introduces them to a character they will never forget --- Hadassah. Torn by her love for a handsome aristocrat, a young slave girl clings to her faith in the living God for deliverance from the forces of decadent Rome.
- Click here to read more about A VOICE IN THE WIND.
- Click here to read an excerpt from A VOICE IN THE WIND.
- Click here to read Francine Rivers’s bio.
AN ECHO IN THE DARKNESS: Mark of the Lion, Book 2 by Francine Rivers (Historical Fiction)
Turning away from the opulence of Rome, Marcus is led by a whispering voice from the past into a journey that could set him free from the darkness of his soul.
- Click here to read more about AN ECHO IN THE DARKNESS.
- Click here to read an excerpt from AN ECHO IN THE DARKNESS.
- Click here to read Francine Rivers’s bio.
AS SURE AS THE DAWN: Mark of the Lion, Book 3 by Francine Rivers (Historical Fiction)
Atretes. German warrior. Revered gladiator. He won his freedom through his fierceness, but his life is about to change forever.
- Click here to read more about AS SURE AS THE DAWN.
- Click here to read an excerpt from AS SURE AS THE DAWN.
- Click here to read Francine Rivers’s bio.
HERO’S TRIBUTE by Graham Garrison (Fiction)
What makes a man a legend --- trophies, medals, or character? Michael Gavin is a hero for all these reasons and more. But he also has a past he’s not proud of --- one he’s kept hidden from his family, his friends and his community. Now his secrets are about to be made public. Like it or not. And they may change the lives of everyone in the small town of Talking Creek.
- Click here to read more about HERO’S TRIBUTE.
- Click here to read a review of HERO’S TRIBUTE.
- Click here to read an excerpt from HERO’S TRIBUTE.
- Click here to read Graham Garrison’s bio.
DESERT FIRE by Shannon Van Roekel (Fiction)
Julie Keegan is a journalist in Darfur troubled by her own personal turmoil. Joel Maartens is a lawyer whose client asked him to travel to a war-torn African desert to deliver a letter. Though they are on two very different paths, their lives are providentially brought together to fight the injustice and violence around them --- and heal their own past hurts.
- Click here to read more about DESERT FIRE.
- Click here to read an excerpt from DESERT FIRE.
- Click here to read Shannon Van Roekel’s bio.
Features
THE BRIDE BLUNDER: Prairie Promises, Book 3 by Kelly Eileen Hake (Historical Romance)
Come visit Buttonwood for a marriage mistake like no other in the third novel of Kelly Eileen Hake’s Prairie Promises series. In the Nebraskan Territory of 1859, Gavin Miller writes home to request the hand of Miss Marguerite Chandler. They say that the devil is in the details, and Gavin forgot an important one --- Marguerite’s cousin shares the same name! When his surprise bride arrives, will Gavin swallow his pride and admit to his blunder?
- Click here to read an excerpt from THE BRIDE BLUNDER.
- Click here to read Kelly Eileen Hake’s bio.
THE SHERIFF’S SURRENDER: Ladies’ Shooting Club, Book 1by Susan Page Davis (Historical Romance)
Join the sassy ladies of Fergus, Idaho, as they protect their town in this quirky historical romance. A crime spree has divided the men in town, so Gert Dooley forms the Ladies’ Shooting Club to protect their homes and businesses. But when one of their members is murdered, will these feisty gals have what it takes to find the killer? Will the new sheriff put the club out of work, or will he surrender his heart?
- Click here to read an excerpt from THE SHERIFF’S SURRENDER.
- Click here to read Susan Page Davis’s bio.
Click here to read the full newsletter.
Faithful Fiction
THE CHRISTMAS SECRET by Donna VanLiere (Fiction)
When Christine Eisley saves the life of a woman who works in Wilson’s department store, the owner of Wilson’s wants to find her and thank her, but Christine has disappeared. He sets his grandson, Jason, to the task of finding the mysterious “Christy.” Jason, an accountant by trade who has lost his job to downsizing, thinks he is “above” working at Wilson’s. Soon, he discovers that this new task gives him more than he bargains for.
THE SOUND OF SLEIGH BELLS by Cindy Woodsmall (Fiction)
Remorse and loneliness echo inside Beth Hertzler from the life she once had. Children’s whispers and laughter call to her from a life she only dreams of. A gifted carver holds the answer to both within his hands --- but can Beth step beyond yesterday and into the joy of Christmas? Reviewed by Melanie Smith.
THE CHRISTMAS DOG by Melody Carlson (Fiction)
Betty Kowalski isn't looking forward to the holidays. She just can't seem to find Christmas in her heart. Maybe it's because her husband is gone. Maybe it's because she's missing her children. Or maybe it has something to do with her obnoxious new neighbor. But when a mangy dog appears at her doorstep, the stage is set for Betty to learn what Christmas is really all about. Reviewed by Melanie Smith.
THE GREAT CHRISTMAS BOWL by Susan May Warren (Fiction)
Marianne Wallace loves the holidays. But when her children begin to leave home --- and their traditions --- behind, she has one last chance to create a holiday they’ll never forget. Heartwarming and hilarious, THE GREAT CHRISTMAS BOWL is a story about family, traditions and rediscovering the real magic of Christmas. Reviewed by Susan Miura.
FINDING CHRISTMAS: Stories of Startling Joy and Perfect Peace, by James Calvin Schaap (Fiction/Short Stories)
Join award-winning author and storyteller James Calvin Schaap as he uncovers the grace, joy and love of the season through seven heartwarming tales of miracle moments in a messy world. This beautiful and inspiring collection of contemporary Christmas stories will remind you what grace looks like --- and where to find it. Reviewed by Evelyn Bence.
SEASIDE LETTERS: A Nantucket Love Story, by Denise Hunter (Romance)
Sabrina Kincaid detachedly serves Tucker McCabe breakfast daily at the Cobblestone Café in Nantucket, but the two spend evenings at a local online venue, connecting through aliases of “Sweetpea” and “Harbormaster.” Whereas real-life interactions have been cold and impersonal, communicating anonymously has allowed the two to become close. But neither has revealed who they really are, so once Tucker tries to find the person behind Sweetpea, their relationships --- both online and face-to-face --- take one wicked turn after another. Reviewed by Melanie Smith.
Christian Living
GRACE NOTES: Daily Readings with a Fellow Pilgrim,by Philip Yancey (Devotional)
Philip Yancey has accomplished what many writers plan to do “some day.” He has compiled a magnitude of thought-provoking ideas and served them up in 366 easily digestible portions. Whether you have read all of Yancey’s award-winning books or are discovering him for the first time, GRACE NOTES will touch your mind, your heart and your spirit on many levels. Reviewed by Maggie Harding.
SOUVENIRS OF SOLITUDE: Finding Rest in Abba's Embrace, by Brennan Manning (Christian Living/Spiritual Growth)
The most reliable guides of spiritual formation pinpoint solitude and silence as central to the spiritual life. Now Brennan Manning --- in his honest, original and winning way --- shares from his own experiences to prompt you into the riches of spending time alone with God at rest in His presence. Reviewed by Margaret Oines.
PURE PLEASURE: Why Do Christians Feel So Bad About Feeling Good? by Gary L. Thomas (Christian Living)
Popular spiritual author Gary Thomas invites you to shake off the shackles of misunderstanding about sin and experience the liberating power of living a life of holy pleasure ––– a life that feeds your relationships, protects your spiritual integrity, and energizes your worship and service. Reviewed by Margaret Oines.
HOLY GROUND: Walking With Jesus as a Former Catholic, by Chris Castaldo (Christian Life)
Chris Castaldo takes readers on a fascinating and practical exploration of the challenges and opportunities encountered by Catholics who become Evangelicals. More than just theological insight and historical background, HOLY GROUND shows you how to emulate the grace and truth of Jesus as you relate to your own Catholic past and the Catholic faith of those you love. Reviewed by Michele Howe.
Marriage and Family Life
THE SMART STEPMOM: Practical Steps to Help You Thrive!, by Ron L. Deal and Laura Petherbridge (Parenting)
In today's complicated stepfamily, the stepmom often doesn't know where to turn for help. Stepfamily expert Ron Deal and experienced stepmom Laura Petherbridge shows you how to survive and thrive as a stepmom. Here is the hope, encouragement and practical information to assure you that you are not alone in the stepmom journey. Reviewed by Michele Howe.
Books into Movies
The Christmas Hope, based on THE CHRISTMAS HOPE by Donna VanLiere
Airs December 13th at 8 PM ET on Lifetime Movie Network
When lives intertwine during Christmas, hope is the one unifying gift. After suffering a personal tragedy, Patty Addison, a social worker, throws herself into finding homes for children in need. With her marriage to Mark, an airline pilot, on the rocks, Patty feels it’s the wrong time to temporarily take in nine-year-old Emily, who has just lost her single mother in a terrible car accident. However, sweet Emily quickly wins over Patty and Mark. As the Addisons start to reconnect with each other, it’s revealed that their teenage son, Sean, had perished in a car accident as well, two years earlier.
Features
The Interviews of 2009
As 2009 comes to a close, we invite you to take a look at the author interviews that were featured throughout the year on FaithfulReader.com. This is a great way to catch up on the discussions you may have missed --- and to re-read what some of your favorite authors had to say about their books.
About the Books
HER MOTHER’S HOPE: Marta’s Legacy, Book 1 by Francine Rivers (Historical Fiction)
On Sale March 16, 2010
The first in an epic two-book saga by beloved author Francine Rivers, this sweeping story explores the complicated relationships between mothers and daughters over several generations. Near the turn of the 20th century, fiery Marta leaves Switzerland determined to find life on her own terms. Her journey takes her through Europe and finally lands her with children and husband in tow in the central valley of California.
- Click here to read Francine Rivers’s bio.
Study Guides
A VOICE IN THE WIND: Mark of the Lion, Book 1 by Francine Rivers (Historical Fiction)
This first book in the classic bestselling Mark of the Lion series brings readers back to the first century and introduces them to a character they will never forget --- Hadassah. Torn by her love for a handsome aristocrat, a young slave girl clings to her faith in the living God for deliverance from the forces of decadent Rome.
- Click here to read more about A VOICE IN THE WIND.
- Click here to read an excerpt from A VOICE IN THE WIND.
- Click here to read Francine Rivers’s bio.
AN ECHO IN THE DARKNESS: Mark of the Lion, Book 2 by Francine Rivers (Historical Fiction)
Turning away from the opulence of Rome, Marcus is led by a whispering voice from the past into a journey that could set him free from the darkness of his soul.
- Click here to read more about AN ECHO IN THE DARKNESS.
- Click here to read an excerpt from AN ECHO IN THE DARKNESS.
- Click here to read Francine Rivers’s bio.
AS SURE AS THE DAWN: Mark of the Lion, Book 3 by Francine Rivers (Historical Fiction)
Atretes. German warrior. Revered gladiator. He won his freedom through his fierceness, but his life is about to change forever.
- Click here to read more about AS SURE AS THE DAWN.
- Click here to read an excerpt from AS SURE AS THE DAWN.
- Click here to read Francine Rivers’s bio.
HERO’S TRIBUTE by Graham Garrison (Fiction)
What makes a man a legend --- trophies, medals, or character? Michael Gavin is a hero for all these reasons and more. But he also has a past he’s not proud of --- one he’s kept hidden from his family, his friends and his community. Now his secrets are about to be made public. Like it or not. And they may change the lives of everyone in the small town of Talking Creek.
- Click here to read more about HERO’S TRIBUTE.
- Click here to read a review of HERO’S TRIBUTE.
- Click here to read an excerpt from HERO’S TRIBUTE.
- Click here to read Graham Garrison’s bio.
DESERT FIRE by Shannon Van Roekel (Fiction)
Julie Keegan is a journalist in Darfur troubled by her own personal turmoil. Joel Maartens is a lawyer whose client asked him to travel to a war-torn African desert to deliver a letter. Though they are on two very different paths, their lives are providentially brought together to fight the injustice and violence around them --- and heal their own past hurts.
- Click here to read more about DESERT FIRE.
- Click here to read an excerpt from DESERT FIRE.
- Click here to read Shannon Van Roekel’s bio.
Features
THE BRIDE BLUNDER: Prairie Promises, Book 3 by Kelly Eileen Hake (Historical Romance)
Come visit Buttonwood for a marriage mistake like no other in the third novel of Kelly Eileen Hake’s Prairie Promises series. In the Nebraskan Territory of 1859, Gavin Miller writes home to request the hand of Miss Marguerite Chandler. They say that the devil is in the details, and Gavin forgot an important one --- Marguerite’s cousin shares the same name! When his surprise bride arrives, will Gavin swallow his pride and admit to his blunder?
- Click here to read an excerpt from THE BRIDE BLUNDER.
- Click here to read Kelly Eileen Hake’s bio.
THE SHERIFF’S SURRENDER: Ladies’ Shooting Club, Book 1by Susan Page Davis (Historical Romance)
Join the sassy ladies of Fergus, Idaho, as they protect their town in this quirky historical romance. A crime spree has divided the men in town, so Gert Dooley forms the Ladies’ Shooting Club to protect their homes and businesses. But when one of their members is murdered, will these feisty gals have what it takes to find the killer? Will the new sheriff put the club out of work, or will he surrender his heart?
- Click here to read an excerpt from THE SHERIFF’S SURRENDER.
- Click here to read Susan Page Davis’s bio.
Click here to read the full newsletter.
posted by webmaster at
10:50 AM
<< Home