ACFW 2026 Genesis Finalists

At one time, this contest was called the Noble Theme, back when ACFW was in its early years. I was a finalist myself for 2 years before selling my first novel, so I'm certain the names listed below will soon join the ranks of published authors. And here they are:

2026 Genesis Finalists

Contemporary

Elise Browning - Chasing Light
Kate Mackereth - Binding Vines
Sarah Nichols - All the Ways We Come Home

Historical

Bryan Harsh - The Sign
Terri Miller - The Year They Buried King Cotton
Shannon Skaer - The Prisoner in the Library

Historical Romance

Jessica Gustafson - A Price for Her Hand
Amy King - More Precious than Silver
Megan Southon - Carry Me

Mystery/Suspense/Thriller

Marilyn Brandon - Finding Juvie Blue
Will Eason - Endgame Protocol
Jeffrey Friedel - Twelve Words

Novella

Lakeisha Heeringa - A Shard of Truth
Suzanne Montgomery - Storm Waters Rising
Bill Quimby - Ring Walker

Romance

Amy King - The Tempest
Grace Lakin - Considering Calla Lilies
Tiffany Miller - We’re Only Mostly Married

Romantic Suspense

Cherie Fresonke - A Dream Worth Fighting For
Jess Noble - True Believer
Brittney Peek - Cold Case Files: Off the Record

Short Novel

George Brooks - Grit and Greed
Laura Elizabeth Salas - Their Second Chance Family
Dave Sprecher - When Steeples Fall

Speculative

Faith Behrens - The Queen’s Assassination
Kimberly Cornelius - The Healer Prince
Kimberly Cornelius - The Temple Atoner

Young Adult

M. A. Bellers - Into the Rising Sun
Allison Cook - Gems of My Father
William DeWitt - The Memory Room

A huge congratulations to all the finalists!

2026 ACFW Carol Award Finalists in Christian Fiction

Alongside the Christy Awards, the Carol awards share the spotlight as a top honor in the realm of Christian Fiction books. I've been a member of this organization since 2001. Hard to believe 25 years have passed since I began my journey in this crazy publishing world. I've been on quite the rollercoaster.

But hard work definitely pays off, and this award honors the dedication and commitment of these authors who stuck to their guns and produced a story readers and industry professionals love.

Without further ado, here are this year's finalists:

2026 Carol Awards Finalists

Contemporary

Before I Go by Marilyn K. Blair

Independent Author

Editor – Kelly Barr

What the River Keeps by Cheryl Grey Bostrom

Tyndale House

Editors – Elizabeth Jackson and Sarah Rische

Capture the Moment by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Revell

Editor – Andrea Doering

 

Historical 

The Fourth Magi by Bryan E. Canter

Independent Author

Editor – Ed Marlow

The Women of Oak Ridge by Michelle Shocklee

Tyndale House

Editor – Kathryn S. Olson

Last Light Over Galveston by Jennifer L. Wright

Tyndale House

Editor - Sarah Rische

Historical Romance

The Lawyer and the Laundress by Christine Hill Suntz

Tyndale House

Editor – Kathryn S. Olson

The Collector of Burned Books by Roseanna M. White

Tyndale House

Editors – Elizabeth Jackson and Kathryn S. Olson

A Song in the Dark by Kimberley Woodhouse

Bethany House (Baker Publishing Group)

Editors – Karen Ball and Jessica Sharpe

Mystery/Suspense/Thriller

Midnight Masquerade by Elle E. Kay

Independent Author

Editor –Sarah Hamaker

Every Hour Until Then by Gabrielle Meyer

Bethany House (Baker Publishing Group)

Editors – Bethany Lenderink and Jessica Sharpe

Innocence Sold by B. F. Randall

Iron Stream Media

Editors – Suzanne Austin and Larry J. Leech II

Novella

Bible and a .44 (part of the From This Moment On collection) by Robin Lee Hatcher

Independent Author

Editor – Deborah Raney

The Christmas Book Flood by Roseanna M. White

Tyndale House

Editors – Elizabeth Jackson and Kathryn S. Olson

A Star in the West (part of the On a Midnight Clear collection) by Karen Witemeyer

Bethany House (Baker Publishing Group)

Editor – Jessica Sharpe

Romance

Before Grace by Anna Daugherty

Black Rose Writing

Editor - Denise Harmer

Small Town Harmony by Milla Holt

Independent Author

Editor – Sara Turnquist

Hearts in Circulation by Sarah Monzon

Bethany House (Baker Publishing Group)

Editors – Jessica Sharpe and Jennifer Veilleux

Meant for Me by Betsy St. Amant

Sunrise Publishing

Editor – Susan Warren

Romantic Suspense

Failed Protocol by Cindy Bonds 

Scrivenings Press

Editors – Kaci Banks and Susie Waltner

Mistletoe and Malice by Lori DeJong

Scrivenings Press

Editors –Kaci Banks and Elena Hill

I Can’t Hear You by Vikki Kestell

Independent Author

Editors - Cheryl Adkins and Greg McCann

Protecting You by Robin Patchen

Independent Author

Editor – Ray Rhamey 

Short Novel

One Nine by Sara Davison

Independent Author

Editor - Jayci Roek

To Capture a Mountain Man by Robin Lee Hatcher

Independent Author

Editor – Deborah Raney

To Reveal a Reckless Love by Tasha Hackett

Independent Author

Editor – Deborah Raney

Speculative

Forever by Gina Detwiler

Ally Press

Editors – Erin Healy and Kristen Stieffel

Echo Nova by Clint Hall

Enclave Publishing (Oasis Family Media)

Editor – Lisa Laube

Darkfell by Amanda Wright

Quill & Flame Publishing House

Editors – Brittany Eden and Jennifer Frankovic

Young Adult

Sanctified by V. Romas Burton

Quill & Flame Publishing House

Editors - Stephanie Arujo and Jessica Gwyn

This Isn’t Shakespeare by Stephanie Cardel

WordCrafts Press

Editors – Janelle Leonard and Mike Parker

Truth Cursed by Angie Dickinson

Enclave Publishing (Oasis Family Media)

Editors – Avily Jerome and Lisa Laube

Debut Author

To Have and To Hold by Deb L. Brown

Independent Author

Editors - Cassie Mae and KaTrina Jackson

Tattooed Woman at the Well by Terri McAdoo

Redemption Press

Editor – Lesley McDaniel

The Tragedy of Oli Ricker by Phillip Snyder

Living Tome Publishing

Editors – Emily Whitten and Leilah Wright

Find Your People: Why Community Changes Everything

Writing is solitary work.

A story gets built inside one person's imagination, transferred through one person's hands, shaped by one person's understanding of character and language and what makes a scene feel true. No one can do that part for you, and no one should try. The solitude is where the work actually happens.

But that solitude is sustainable only when it's held inside a larger community. The writers who last are almost never the ones who go it entirely alone.

I know this from experience, both kinds. I know what it feels like to be connected to a community of people who understand this work from the inside, and I know what it feels like when that connection frays or goes quiet. The difference is not subtle. It's part of what led to my period of silence and lack of new releases.

What ACFW Gave Me

I've been part of American Christian Fiction Writers almost since it began, and the organization has shaped my career in ways I'm still discovering.

The most obvious gift is access to editors, agents, craft education, and the broader ecosystem of Christian publishing. But what has mattered more, in the long run, is the relationships. The authors I've met through ACFW who have become genuine friends. The ones who understand without explanation what it means to be in the middle of a difficult manuscript, or to receive a disappointing editorial letter, or to watch a book release into the world and wonder whether it found the readers it was meant for.

There's a particular relief in being known by people who share the specific aspects of your experience. It doesn't require as much explanation. You can say certain things about the loneliness of a long project, about the doubt that lives alongside the work, about the strange grief of finishing a book, and be understood immediately, without having to first explain why those things are hard.

I never want to take that kind of community for granted.

Why Community Matters More Than You'd Think

Writing community doesn't have to be formal or large to be real. Some of the most sustaining connections I've had in this work have been a single author friend who checks in during a hard stretch, who celebrates a win, who tells you the truth about my work and encourages me.

The authors who have been that for me are among the people I value most in my professional life. And I try, imperfectly and consistently, to be that for others.

Creative isolation is a danger. And you often don't see it until it's already a problem.

You can go a long time producing work without meaningful community and not fully realize what's missing until you find it again. Until you're in a room full of people who understand the work you do and feel something loosen in your chest that you didn't know had been tight. That happened to me. It's part of why the long season away was as hard as it was, and part of why returning to community has been as restorative as returning to the writing itself.

If you're a writer reading this and you've been going it alone, find your people. It will change things in ways you can't fully anticipate from where you're standing. The work is yours alone to do. But you don't have to do it in isolation.

Have you found your community, or are you still looking? What has connection with other creative people meant to you? I'd love to hear about it in the comments.

ACFW Lifetime Achievement Award - Frank Perretti

Frank Peretti to be recognized as Lifetime Achievement Recipient at ACFW’s Carol Finalists Press Conference at ICRS

Palm Bay, FL -- The 2013 ACFW Carol Award finalists for the best in Christian Fiction will be announced during a press conference by The American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) at 10:30 Monday morning, June 24 in Media Room 106 at ICRS in St. Louis, MO at the America’s Center Convention Complex.

The Carol Awards—named for Christian Fiction pioneering editor Carol Johnson—honor multiple categories of fiction traditionally published in the previous calendar year. Judges include readers, multi-published authors, retailers, and librarians.

The ACFW press conference at ICRS will also spotlight a key figure in the world of Christian fiction. This year’s recipient of ACFW’s Lifetime Achievement Award is prolific author and innovator Frank Peretti. The official announcement will be made during the press conference and will include a short tribute to Peretti’s influence and impact with his groundbreaking novels.

“The very essence of what Christian Fiction could encompass forever changed with the release of (Peretti’s) This Present Darkness,” says ACFW Executive Board member Allen Arnold. “That wasn't Frank’s goal. He quietly wrote the story that God stirred his heart with. But that novel ripped wide the veil between the seen and unseen.” Arnold adds, “That novel brought men and teens in droves to the Christian Fiction aisle (no small feat). It showed how Christian Fiction can be muscular and unabashedly speculative with angels and demons fighting around us and impacted by our prayers. More than 25 years later, Frank continues to quietly write novels from his home in the wilderness...novels that quicken the pace and stir the souls of any who dare dive in.”

Members of the press and ICRS attendees are invited to attend the press conference and hear more about why Frank Peretti was chosen for ACFW’s Lifetime Achievement Award and to be the first to hear the list of finalists of the 2013 Carol Awards.

Peretti and winners of the Carol Awards will be honored at the ACFW conference in Indianapolis at the award gala on Sunday night, September 15 at the Hyatt Regency. Keynote speaker for the 2013 conference is Robin Jones Gunn. Authors, aspiring authors, industry guests, and representatives from every major CBA publishing house and literary agency will gather for this premier Christian fiction conference. www.acfw.com/conference



This press release will be permanently hosted on the official ECPA press archive at www.FrontGateMedia.com/ECPAnews
(originally posted at http://www.ecpanews.org/rush/pr16.html)

May 2013 New Releases in Christian Fiction

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

Follow the Heart by Kaye Dacus — An American woman is sent to England to marry wealth, but finds herself torn between the poor man she loves and the viscount who offers the wealth and stability that can save her family. (Historical Romance from B & H Publishing).

When a Secret Kills by Lynette Eason — Investigative reporter, Jillian Carter, comes home after ten years in hiding to join forces with Detective Colton Brady to put a killer behind bars. (Thriller/Suspense from Revell (Baker).

Always, Abby by Linda S. Glaz — A war orphan, a planned wedding, and a pretty face, all destined to unravel the best laid plans. (Historical Romance from Heartsong Presents).

Widow of Gettysburg (Heroines Behind the Lines) by Jocelyn Green — A Union widow must rebuild her life after war rips through her home, while her heart wages its own battle against a draw she feels toward the enemy. (Historical from River North (Moody).

Once Upon a Prince by Rachel Hauck — Once Upon a Prince, the first novel in the Royal Wedding series, treats you to a modern-day fairy tale. Susanna Truitt never dreamed of a great romance or being treated like a princess—just to marry the man she has loved for twelve years. But life isn’t going according to plan. When her high-school-sweetheart-turned-Marine-officer breaks up instead of proposing, Susanna scrambles to rebuild her life. The last thing Prince Nathaniel expects to find on his American holiday to St. Simon’s Island is the queen of his heart. (Contemporary Romance from Zondervan).

The Marriage Barter by Christine Johnson — A widow must marry within three days to keep her daughter. (Historical Romance from Love Inspired).

Talon: Combat Tracking Team by Ronie Kendig — A veteran and a military intelligence operative team up to find a missing soldier. This time, survival depends on the courage of a traumatized combat tracking dog. (Romantic Suspense from Barbour Publishing).

Hill Country Cattleman by Laurie Kingery — An aristocratic young lady flees England ahead of scandal, only to find love in the arms of a rugged Texas cowboy. (Historical Romance from Love Inspired).

Captured by Moonlight by Christine Lindsay — Two women, one Indian, one English, each one captured and imprisoned by their past-Eshana by her traditional Hindu uncle for her faith in Christ, the other, Lieutenant Laine Harkness by her former fiancé, yet new life can come on the trade winds after the storm has passed. (Historical Romance Novella from Whitefire Publishing ).

A Heartbeat Away by S. Dionne Moore — When a band of runaway slaves brings Union-loyal Beth Bumgartner a wounded Confederate soldier named Joe, it is the catalyst that pushes her to defy her pacifist parents and become a nurse during the Battle of Antietam. Her mother’s mysterious goodbye gift is filled with quilt blocks that bring comfort to Beth during the hard days and lonely nights, but as she sews each block, she realizes there is a hidden message of faith within the pattern that encourages and sustains her. Beth learns Joe’s secret and together they put the quilt’s message to its greatest test-but can betrayal be forgiven? (Historical Romance from Abingdon Press).

Gone South: A Novel by Meg Moseley — The sweet tea has gone bitter in Noble, Alabama, where newcomer Tish McComb soon learns that her family’s roots there aren’t seen as respectable-especially once she befriends a local prodigal daughter and things go from bad to worse. (Contemporary Women’s Fiction from Waterbrook Multnomah).

The Face of the Earth by Deborah Raney When Mitchell Brannon’s beloved wife of twenty years kisses him goodbye one morning, he has little idea that his life is about to change forever. (General Contemporary from Howard (Simon and Schuster).

No Way Out by Susan Sleeman — When Alyssa Wells discovers her police husband was murdered and the killer threatens her life, Alyssa turns to former US Marshall Cole Justice to keep her alive. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired).

Love’s Stormy Gale by Lynette Sowell — Two years ago, Olivia Shea was trying on her wedding gown, dreaming of marriage and motherhood. But her fisherman fiancé was lost at sea and Olivia fled, unable to stay in the New England fishing village. Now she’s back in Fairport, determined to face her fears by working on a whale boat tour. But the charter’s captain is the sole survivor of her fiancé’s ill-fated voyage-a man of danger and memories. Jonathan Barrotta’s scars from the night he nearly died run as deep as the vast Atlantic. To prove himself and to honor his friend’s memory, he vows to fulfill his dream of piloting his own boat… (Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents).

Sweet Dreams by Carla Stewart — Charm school in Texas wasn’t what cousins Dusty Fairchild and Paisley Finch dreamed of, but when they fall in love with the same handsome young man, things get sticky, and only after a tragic accident do they learn where their true hearts, and dreams, lie. (Historical from Faith Words (Hachette).

Catch a Falling Star by Beth K. Vogt — Is life about accomplishing plans . . . or wishes coming true . . . or something more? Dr. Kendall Haynes’s plans to have it all-a career, a husband, a family-are eluding her. Now that she’s thirty-six, she needs to stop wishing upon a star and face reality: Some dreams just never come true. Air Force pilot Griffin Walker prefers flying solo in the air and on the ground-until a dangerous choice ejects him from the cockpit. His life becomes even more complicated after the sudden death of his parents makes him the guardian of his sixteen-year-old brother. When their lives collide during a near tragedy, Kendall and Griffin must decide if they can embrace the unexpected changes God has waiting for them. (Contemporary Romance from Howard (Simon and Schuster).

Undeniably Yours by Becky Wade — Soft-spoken Meg is more interested in art than in business, but when her father dies she inherits his oil company, his fortune, and his Thoroughbred horse ranch. She asks the ranch’s caretaker, Bo, to shut the place down. But will Bo prove the only part of her father’s empire worth keeping? (Contemporary Romance from Bethany House).

Wedding on the Rocks by Rose Ross Zediker — When she traded small-town life for the bright lights of Chicago, Jennifer Edwards yearned to discover a world beyond Faith, South Dakota. So when her father’s illness calls her home to run their cattle ranch, she tells herself it’s temporary. Then why is she even thinking about a future with archaeology professor Brett Lange-the boy she left behind-whose life’s work is digging up the past? (General Contemporary from Heartsong Presents).

ACFW Conference for Christian Fiction - Registration Open!

Are you a writer or author of Christian fiction? Do you WANT to write Christian fiction? Well, I have news for you! ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) is the premier Christian fiction organization which holds an annual conference in September at rotating cities throughout the US and...

Registration is now officially OPEN!

Some very important information to read BEFORE you start to register:

*PLEASE NOTE: You are encouraged to study the workshop sessions carefully before registering. Due to severe space limitations, conferees will need to attend only the sessions chosen at registration.

*ALSO NOTE: In an effort to be as environmentally responsible as possible, handouts for sessions will not be available onsite. You’ll receive handouts for your sessions via email the week prior to conference. If you purchase the complete syllabus, that CD of handouts will be included in your registration packet.

*Don’t forget to download the conference app for your iPhone or Android to get the most up-to-date information while onsite:

• iPhone: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/acfw-2013-conference/id605348083?l=ru&ls=1&mt=8.
• Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kitapps.android.builder.acfwconference.

*Please read all the instructions prior to registering. To read the instructions and register, visit www.acfw.com/conference/registration_instructions

April 2013 New Releases in Christian Fiction

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

Diamond in the Rough by Jennifer AlLee and Lisa Karon Richardson — Grant Diamond is a professional gambler on the run from his past. When he comes across a wagon wreck, the chance to escape his pursuers is too good a gamble to pass up, and he assumes the identity of the dead wagon driver. His plan takes an unexpected turn when local heiress Lily Rose mistakes him for the missionary she had asked to come work with the Wiyot Indians. Seeing Eureka as a promising place to lay low, Grant plays along. (Historical Romance from Whitaker House).

A Healing Heart by Angela Breidenbach — Workaholic mother, Mara Keegan, has a heart attack and must trust her business to the one man who tried to destroy it. (Contemporary Romance from Abingdon Press).

Avenger by Heather Burch — Nikki knew Damon Vessler would not let his prized creation go easily—she simply never imagined the lengths he’d go to get her back into his clutches, and turn Nikki’s heart toward darkness. A Seeker at her heels, trained on her blood, Nikki flees with Raven alongside her for protection, while Mace and the other Halflings fight the battle that has erupted on earth. (Young Adult from Zondervan).

Son of Truth by Morgan L. Busse — The war in the north is over, but the war for all the Lands has just begun. As the Shadonae solidify their hold on the city of Thyra, Rowen Mar, the last Eldaran and savior of the White City, awakens to find herself hunted by those she has saved. Meanwhile, the assassin Caleb Tala finds himself in the presence of the Word. The time of reckoning has come and he must pay the price for all the lives he has taken. But in his moment of judgment, Caleb is given a second chance to change his life. (Speculative Fiction from Marcher Lord Press).

Rock Harbor Search and Rescue by Robin Caroll and Colleen Coble– In Rock Harbor Search and Rescue, a middle grade fiction novel based on Colleen Coble’s bestselling Rock Harbor series for adults, kids will enjoy the mixture of pets, adventure, suspense, and a mystery. (Children/Middle Grade from Thomas Nelson).

With Eyes of Love by Linda S. Glaz — Two families collide in a flood, but that collision doesn’t define who they are, he real change happens when Pearl Harbor is bombed. (Historical Romance from Heartsong Presents).

Josiah’s Treasure by Nancy Herriman — A feisty young female artist with a secret past battles to establish her own gallery in 1880′s San Francisco. (Historical Romance from Worthy Publishing).

Surrendered Love by Laura V. Hilton — Will a rebellious teen draw two old friends back together? (Contemporary Romance from Whitaker House).

Sundays in Fredericksburg by Eileen Key, Lynette Sowell, Connie Stevens and Marjorie Vawter — Come to Fredericksburg, Texas, where four generations of couples encounter romance in Sunday Houses. Having become a schoolteacher to avoid marriage, Amelia Bachman finds her resolve crumbling before a smitten carpenter. Determined not to fall in love, Mildred Zimmermann carefully nurses an army medic crippled in love and war. Somewhat of a homebody, Trudy Meier isn’t sure she has the courage to love a roving reporter. Gwendolyn’s beautiful wildflower field is threatened by a geologist’s search for knowledge. Will these four women risk their hearts for the love a stranger? (Contemporary Romance Novella from Barbour Publishing ).

The Heart Stone by Sherry Kyle — When the biological father of Jessica MacAllister’s son decides to break their custody agreement, Jessica and her son visit her Uncle George for advice and refuge… Following a year of grief, Evelyn Sweeney is finally ready to move on. Pondering her new path in life, her mind drifts to her first love, George MacAllister… When the lives of these two women cross, they discover that one heart-shaped ring binds their stories together. (Contemporary Women’s Fiction from Abingdon Press).

All in Good Time (The Gilded Legacy) by Maureen Lang — Can one impatient woman with a dream to provide a refuge for women in need melt the heart of an impervious, stingy banker? (Historical Romance from Tyndale House).

Love at Any Cost by Julie Lessman A spunky heiress without a fortune falls in love with a handsome pauper looking to marry well. (Historical Romance from Revell (Baker).

Stress Test by Richard L. Mabry, M.D. — They may not have enough evidence to convict him, but they have enough to ruin his life–if the kidnappers don’t end it first. (Medical Suspense from Thomas Nelson).

Love Finds You in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin by Pamela S. Meyers — Will she lose her heart to the man who stole her job? (Historical Romance from Summerside Press (Guideposts)).

Mending the Doctor’s Heart by Tina Radcliffe — A new job in Paradise, Colorado, seems like the perfect fresh start for Dr. Ben Rogers. Only problem is, Dr. Sara Elliott has been counting on getting the same job. Once they negotiate a shared trial run, Ben expects working with Sara to be less than pleasant. Instead, he finds himself drawn to her. She’s dedicated and compassionate, exactly the type of woman he used to want-when family was an option. But Sara’s life is just as emotionally complicated as his own. (Romance from Love Inspired).

Madeline’s Protector by Vanessa Riley — A chance meeting and a bullet wound change everything. (Historical Romance from White Rose (Penguin)).

A Lady’s Choice (American Tapestries Series) by Sandra Robbins — Sarah Whittaker travels to Washington, DC, where she joins forces with suffragists but finds herself imprisoned and near death in the Occoquan Workhouse. (Historical Romance from Summerside Press (Guideposts).

When the Morning Glory Blooms by Cynthia Ruchti — Three eras. Three women desperate for hope. Three reasons to believe it won’t come in time. (General Contemporary from Abingdon Press).

The Women of Valley View: Terri by Sharon Srock — A daycare owner hungry for a family of her own falls for a man with all the family he needs. (General Contemporary from Harbourlight Books (Pelican).

Georgia Sweethearts by Missy Tippens — A wary realist fulfilling the requirements of her aunt’s will is forced to share space with a charming dreamer. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired).

Captives (The Safe Lands) by Jill Williamson — One choice could destroy them all. When eighteen-year-old Levi returned from Denver City with his latest scavenged finds, he never imagined he’d find his village of Glenrock decimated, loved ones killed by enforcers, and many—including his fiancee, Jem–taken captive. Now alone, Levi is determined to rescue what remains of his people, even if it means entering the Safe Land, a walled city that seems anything but safe. (Speculative Fiction from Zondervan).

The House that Love Built by Beth Wiseman — Brooke has only loved one man. Owen’s heart is filled with bitterness. Can a mysterious house bring them together for a second chance at love? (Contemporary Romance from Thomas Nelson).

The Winnowing Season (Amish Vines and Orchards, Book 2) by Cindy Woodsmall — The tornado that devastated Kings’ Orchard pushed Rhoda, Samuel, and Jacob to make a new start in Maine. Are they strong enough to withstand the challenges of establishing an Amish community-and brave enough to face the secrets that move with them? (Contemporary Romance from Waterbrook Multnomah).

March 2013 New Releases in Christian Fiction

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

Catching Her Heart by Carolyne Aarsen — When they fell in love that summer, Jess Schroder never knew the secret Naomi Deacon carried away with her. Eight years later, she’s back in Hartley Creek – a nurse’s aide devoted to healing others. As she gets to know the good, caring man Jess has become, Naomi realizes they both deserve a second chance. Is Jess ready to let Naomi past his defenses? (Romance from Love Inspired).

Moonlight Masquerade, A Regency by Ruth Axtell — Lady Celine Wexham seems the model British subject. French by birth but enjoying life in 1813 as a widowed English countess, she is in the unique position of being able to help those in need-or to spy for the notorious Napoleon Bonaparte. When Rees Phillips of the British Foreign Office is sent to pose as the countess’s butler and discover where her true loyalties lie, he is confident he will uncover the truth. But the longer he is with her, the more his staunch loyalty to the Crown begins to waver. (Historical Romance from Revell).

Rekindled Romance by Lorraine Beatty — Back home again to regain her health, Shelby Russell finds herself babysitting for Matt Durrant’s adorable kids, but the trouble is, Matt’s the man she jilted for her career years ago. (Romance from Love Inspired).

The Hidden Son by Dianna T. Benson — When U.S. DEA Special Agent Lelisa Desmond refuses to follow an order to bury evidence in a high profile case, her superior inexplicably hires a hit man to kill her. Lelisa barely survives the first attempt on her life, but someone close to her is mistakenly murdered in her place. Lelisa sets off on a daring mission to bring down the man who ordered her execution. A man with powerful friends who will stop at nothing to protect his son. Can she take him down, before he sends someone else to silence her forever? (Suspense/Police Procedural from Ellechor Publishing House).

Strand of Deception by Robin Caroll — Strand of Deception offers romance, suspense, and a lively debate about the impact of DNA testing, for better or worse, on the United States justice system. (Romantic Suspense from B&H Publishing).

Swept Away by Mary Connealy — Ruthy MacNeil is rescued from a flood by Luke Stone…who is on his way to fight the man who killed his father…so unfortunately, there are more chances to die in Ruthy’s immediate future. (Historical Romance from Bethany House).

Scorned Justice by Margaret Daley — Texas Ranger Brody Calhoun realizes the attack on his high school sweetheart’s brother is more than it seems. Judge Rebecca Morgan is in the midst of a trial involving the Russian Mafia and suddenly her life is in danger. (Romantic Suspense from Abingdon Press).

When Truth Whispers by Dora Hiers — After a humiliating breakup, best-selling romance author Teal Benning flees to Promise Lake to complete her current novel, minus paparazzi and flashing cameras. Suffering from writer’s block and a broken heart, Teal accepts the offer of help from neighbor, Hunter Miciver. Hunter longs to be more than the friend who picks up the shattered pieces of Teal’s heart, but when Teal finds out his secret, will she see him for the man he is? (Contemporary Romance Novella from White Prose Publishing (Pelican).

Journey’s Embrace by Dora Hiers — After an injury forces Deputy U.S. Marshal Sage Michaelson off duty, he heads to his hometown with two things on his mind: recuperating and reevaluating, but Sage can’t refuse his best friend’s plea to keep a protective eye on his little sister after someone ransacks her house.
Flight Medic Delaney Hunt has loved Sage forever. But, he’s all about control while she takes risks. She doesn’t need Sage looking over her shoulder. But when things go wrong and she finds herself hanging by her fingertips, who does she call to rescue her? (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing (Pelican).

Angel Falls by Connie Mann — A fiercely protective Brazilian orphanage director and a burned-out Army Ranger are forced together in a deadly race to save one helpless baby. (Romantic Suspense from Abingdon Press).

Love Will Find a Way by Pamela S. Meyers — When April Love opens her new eatery and catering business in an old Victorian in the village of Canoga Lake, Wisconsin, trouble is afoot. During renovations, she discovers evidence that the home had once been the hideout of a famous gangster. When several break-ins and an attempted arson fire threaten the grand opening, April and handsome fiancé Marc Thorne wonder if the gangsters still around? (Cozy Mystery from OakTara Publishers).

The Survivor by DiAnn Mills — Kariss helps a woman involved with a 23 year old cold case and steps into a viper’s pit of danger. (Romantic Suspense from Zondervan).

When Memories Fade (Victory Gospel Series 2) by Tyora Moody — Angel Roberts has embraced her new faith, but past memories remain fresh. After her beloved grandmother suffers a stroke, Angel sets out to investigate a mystery that has lingered since she was five years old. What happened to her mother? She teams up with investigative reporter, Wes Cade, a man obsessed with his Alzheimer stricken grandfather’s remaining memories. As Angel lets her guard down with Wes, his determination to get the story could push her to the edge. Is his interest in her or the story? (Romantic Suspense from Urban Christian).

Love for the Right Reasons by Donna L. Rich — Beverly Lahmeyer falls in love with her new boss, but devastating news brings their relationship to a halt. (Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents).

Mountain Homecoming by Sandra Robbins — In the second book in the Smoky Mountain Dreams series, the Martin family realizes their way of life is changing as the lumber companies begin to invade their remote valley deep in the Smoky Mountains. (Romance from Harvest House).

The Tempted Soul by Adina Senft — A childless Amish woman is tempted by medical technology to betray her beliefs. (Contemporary Women’s Fiction from Faith Words (Hachette).

Antique Dreams by Amber Stockton — Fulfilling a deathbed promise, Aaron Stone encourages Lillian Bradenton to bring life back to a boarded-up bookstore, but before he can make good on his promise, he is called away to settle a family emergency, leaving Lillian to wonder if she’s lost him forever. (Historical Romance from Heartsong Presents).

Forsaken Dreams by Mary Lu Tyndall — Forsaken Dreams launches readers on a romantic adventure as Colonel Blake Wallace leaves the war-torn South behind to build a utopian society in Brazil. But will unexpected dangers on the ship and the secret of one captivating lady keep him from beginning anew? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing).

Ring of Secrets by Roseanna M. White — Love has no place in a world of spies. (Historical Romance from Harvest House).

February 2013 New Releases in Christian Fiction

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

Angelguard by Ian Acheson — In a war that transcends time … A new offensive is launched … Hidden dark forces are advancing … Heaven’s warriors respond … One man finds himself at the center of the conflict … Can he stop the unthinkable occurring? (Supernatural Thriller from Monarch – Lion Hudson).

Heart of a Rancher by Renee Andrews — After having his heart broken in the past by a city girl, John Cutter isn’t quick to fall for the new city girl in town, but when he does, he falls hard…and then he learns her secret. (Romance from Love Inspired).

A Home for Lydia by Vannetta Chapman — A Home for Lydia centers again on the Plain community of Pebble Creek and the kind, caring people there. As they face challenges to their community from the English world, they come together to reach out to their non-Amish neighbors while still preserving their cherished Plain ways. (Contemporary Romance from Harvest House).

The Reluctant Earl by C.J. Chase — Alone in a gentleman’s bedchamber, rummaging through his clothing – governess Leah Vance risks social ruin. Only by selling political information can she pay for her sister’s care. And the letter she found in Julian DeChambelle’s coat could be valuable-if the ex-sea captain himself had not just walked in. As a navy officer, Julian knew his purpose. As a new earl, he’s plagued by trivialities and marriage-obsessed females. Miss Vance’s independence is intriguing-and useful. In return for relaying false information, he will pay her handsomely. But trusting her, even caring for her? That would be pure folly. (Historical Romance from Love Inspired).

Detection Mission by Margaret Daley — K-9 officer, Lee Calloway, finds a woman running for her life, scared, injured, and no idea who she is. Lee vows to protect her until her memory returns, but someone is desperate to make sure that doesn’t happen. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired).

Catherine’s Pursuit by Lena Nelson Dooley — The search for her sisters will become a spiritual journey for the entire family. (Historical Romance from Realms – Charisma Media).

Love Comes to Paradise by Mary Ellis — Nora King follows her heart to a turbulent new land, only to discover one cannot escape the past…or true love if God wills it to be. (Contemporary Romance from Harvest House).

A New Home for Lily by Suzanne Woods Fisher and Mary Ann Kinsinger — Lily Lapp is moving with her family to Pennsylvania to join a new Amish community. In this small town where changes–and newcomers–are greeted with suspicion, Lily must adjust to a new school, new friends, and Aaron Yoder, an annoying boy who teases her relentlessly. Still, there are exciting new developments, including an attic full of adventure and a new baby brother. But why, Lily wonders, can’t God bring her just one sister? (Middle-Grade/Chapter book from Revell).

Beyond the Valley by Rita Gerlach — Will his love be enough to find her again within the wilds of the Maryland frontier? Book 3 in the Daughters of the Potomac series. (Historical Romance from Abingdon).

Groom by Arrangement by Rhonda Gibson — The wrong groom could be the perfect match. (Historical Romance from Love Inspired).

Torn Loyalties by Vicki Hinze — Madison McKay doesn’t trust anyone. When Madison is framed for a security breach at a top secret military facility, she’s forced to put her life in ex-military special investigator Grant Deaver’s hands. But after she discovers that he’s been deceiving her, everything will be torn apart unless Grant can convince her to trust him with her life…and her heart. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired).

Love’s Journey Home by Kelly Irvin — Love’s Journey Home is the story of how the families of Bliss Creek’s Amish community learn to be still and listen for the Lord’s direction and then act on faith that His plan will lead them to a long awaited new life. (Romance from Harvest House).

Shattered by Dani Pettrey — Deputy Landon Grainger loves the McKenna family, but he’s also sworn to find the truth. Piper McKenna is trying to convince him her brother is innocent of murder. The two head deep into Canada’s rugged backcountry–and unexpected complications. Not only does their long friendship seem to be turning into something more, but this dangerous case is becoming deadlier with each step. (Romantic Suspense from Bethany House).

The Magistrate’s Folly by Lisa Karon Richardson — The magistrate didn’t know if his greatest folly was condemning her, or trying to rescue her. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing).

When the Heart Heals by Ann Shorey — A young woman tries to put the past behind her and find her place in a new town and a changing world. (Historical Romance from Revell).

Rebekah by Jill Eileen Smith — Can love heal the rift between two souls? (Historical/Biblical from Revell).
Hide and Seek by H.L. Wegley — He expected security breaches, but the conspiracy she uncovers sends them running for their lives. (Romantic Suspense from Harbourlight Books).

Congo Dawn by Jeanette Windle — When a multinational corporation with unlimited funds hires on a private military company with unbridled power, how far might they be willing to go with the planet’s ultimate “conflict mineral” up for grabs? Especially in a Congolese rainforest where governmental accountability is only too cheaply for sale. (Thriller/Suspense from Tyndale).

Firefly Island by Lisa Wingate — Big city career lady Mallory must decide fast whether to move to an isolated Texas Ranch with a man she recently started dating, well, two males actually, Daniel’s son Nick is part of the package deal. (General Contemporary from Bethany House).

Flora’s Wish by Kathleen Y’Barbo — If you like your historical romance Southern with a dash of steam punk, don’t miss the first novel in the Lives of Will Tucker series: A revenge-bound Pinkerton agent with a pocketful of inventions cannot seem to stop “Fatal Flora” Brimm from reaching the altar with prospective groom number five, but the arrest warrant Agent Lucas McMinn carries in his pocket for Flora and her fiancé just might. (Historical Romance from Harvest House).

January 2013 New Releases in Christian Fiction

I have fallen behind in my weekly author spotlights, but I'll be resuming tomorrow to get caught up. In the meantime...

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

Mind of Her Own by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer — Who knew making dinner could change your life? (Contemporary Women’s Fiction from Tyndale House).

Waiting for Morning by Margaret Brownley — If Molly’s purple attire doesn’t blind you, her dazzling smile will. She doesn’t just sing to cattle, she puts on a whole show with dancing and all. If only she wasn’t so stubborn about her brother’s care. Or so suspicious of a certain handsome doctor… (Historical Romance from Thomas Nelson).

Waiting for Spring by Amanda Cabot — In the second of the Westward Winds series, a young widow discovers danger and love in 1886 Cheyenne. (Historical Romance from Revell).

A Daughter’s Redemption by Georgiana Daniels — Inheriting her estranged father’s property isn’t the reason Robyn Warner wanted to come back to Pine Hollow. She thought she’d make amends with her father-but his sudden death made that impossible. And when she learns the identity of the handyman fixing the run-down cabins, Robyn is ready to flee Pine Hollow again. (Romance from Love Inspired).

Where Treasure Hides by Johnnie Alexander Donley — Gifted artist Alison Schuyler and British officer Ian Devlin fall in love on the eve of war. But Alison’s spurned Nazi suitor has his own plans for her future. Will Alison and Ian hold onto their love despite the forces against them, or is it their fate to be separated forever? (Historical Romance from Tyndale House).

Choices of the Heart by Laurie Alice Eakes — In this gripping story of trust, deception, and bittersweet loss, you’ll discover the true meaning of choices of the heart. (Historical Romance from Revell).

Vanished by Irene Hannon — A tenacious reporter… A dubious PI… A secret that will shatter lives…. (Romantic Suspense from Revell).

Claiming Mariah by Pam Hillman — In light of her father’s death, Mariah Malone sends a letter that will forever alter the lives of her family. When Slade Donovan, strong willed and eager for vengeance, shows up on her front porch, Mariah is not ready to hear his truths: her father’s farm, the only home she’s ever known, was bought with stolen gold.. Though Mr. Frederick Cooper, a local landowner, promises to answer her financial woes if she agrees to be his bride, Mariah finds herself drawn instead to the angry young man demanding her home. (Historical Romance from Tyndale House).

A Horseman’s Hope by Myra Johnson — Four years after his girlfriend, Shana, became pregnant, Ryan still can’t believe he’s a father . . . and can’t imagine being anything else. His daughter is the light of his life. Now if only Shana could embrace motherhood and the three become a real family. . . . (Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents).

Denali Dreams by Ronie Kendig and Kimberley Woodhouse — Vast and rugged, Denali National Park brings adventure and love into the lives of four courageous women. Will cancer survivor Karon reach Mt. McKinley’s summit? Will heiress Jolie survive against the terrain and an assassin? Will flightseeing tour guide Deline save her stalling business? Will love conquer all for ranger Deanna? (Romantic Suspense from Barbour Publishing).

Lily’s Plight by Sally Laity and Dianna Crawford– Amid threats of impending Indian attacks, two people find themselves facing an entirely different challenge…forbidden love. (General Historical from Barbour Publishing).

A Mother’s Promise by Anna Schmidt — The third and final book in the Women of Pinecraft series. Set in the Amish/Mennonite community of Pinecraft on the Gulf Coast of Florida readers have fallen in love with these strong women who meet life’s challenges with faith and courage. (General Contemporary from Barbour Publishing).

Path of Freedom by Jennifer Hudson Taylor — 1850 – When Quakers Flora Saferight and Bruce Millikan embark on the Underground Railroad, they agree to put their differences aside to save the lives of a pregnant slave couple. With only her mother’s quilt as a secret guide, the foursome follows the stitches through unknown treachery. As they begin their perilous journey, they hope and pray that their path is one of promise where love sustains them, courage builds faith, and forgiveness leads to freedom. (Historical Romance from Abingdon Press).

Doctor to the Rescue by Cheryl Wyatt — A former Air Force combat doctor and single dad returns from deployment to raise his daughter and enters a childcare barter with a neighbor that lends to unexpected blessings. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired).