Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Back, Amanda Cabot

Talkshow Thursday: 

Welcome Back, Amanda Cabot

I am very pleased to welcome back Amanda Cabot to my blog. I love her stories, and she is a fellow tea drinker! Grab your favorite hot beverage and meet this lovely author.

What is your favorite thing about being a writer?

There are actually two things that I love about being a writer. The first is being able to escape into a world that I’ve created. The second is having readers tell me that my stories touched their hearts and helped them through a difficult time in their lives. That’s worth more than the largest royalty check!

How did you learn how to write?

By reading. That may sound strange, but reading what would now be considered classics taught me how to structure a sentence and how to plot a book. It also instilled a lifelong love of books in me. As Thomas Jefferson famously said, “I cannot live without books.”

What does your writing space look like?

I have two desks. Does that sound strange? One is for handwriting, which is how I outline my

manuscripts and then edit them once they’ve been keyed into Word and printed. (Yes, I’m old-school and like to work with hard copy.) The second desk houses my computer. The highlight of the room is the wall in front of my monitor which has three shelves with framed covers of my books. Seeing them there provides me the inspiration I need when I’m in the middle of the first draft, my least favorite part of the whole writing process.

What was your inspiration for the story?

The Sisters of the Heart trilogy started because I was intrigued by the idea of three very different women living together and becoming as close as blood sisters. The year Sophia, Victoria, and Olivia spent in Europe forged their friendship and created ties that were only strengthened once they returned to the States.

What sort of research did you do for your story, and was there an exceptionally interesting tidbit you knew you had to include?

Since my heroine’s father is imprisoned for embezzlement, I needed to learn where he might have been incarcerated. That led me to Eastern State Penitentiary, which was considered the foremost example of “modern” correctional facilities. I was appalled by how far they took solitary confinement, even putting hoods over the prisoners’ heads when they left their cells so that they would not see another human being. That’s not my idea of enlightened punishment.

If you were to write a spin-off book about one of your secondary characters, which one would you choose and why?

What a great question. Although I hadn’t thought about a fourth book in the series, Charlene Scott deserves a chance at redemption. Who knows? Thanks to your asking the question, she just might get her own book.

What is your advice to fledgling writers?

Three things. First, read extensively in the genre you want to write. Secondly, attend writers’ conferences to hone your craft. Thirdly—and most importantly—never give up.

What is your next project?

The predictable answer would be the third of the Sisters of the Heart books, and I will be working on that soon, but since readers hated to leave Sweetwater Crossing, I’m going to give them another Sweetwater book. Although the majority of my books are set in the nineteenth century, Beyond the Melody takes place right after World War II. I’m having so much fun bringing that pivotal time in American history to life. Melody is scheduled for release in early July.

BOOK BLURB:

A woman whose life is in shambles. A man who’s fighting for his future. A decades-old mystery. Carr

Valley will never be the same.

Victoria Holton has it all, or so it seems: beauty, a doting father, betrothal to one of Philadelphia’s most eligible bachelors. But all that ends the day her father is imprisoned for embezzlement. Suddenly penniless and shunned because of her father’s crime, she flees to Carr Valley, hoping to find refuge with Sophia, her sister of the heart.

With her life upended, Victoria longs to find a new purpose, but what can she do? She wishes she could solve a decades-old mystery that’s haunting a newfound friend, but the only clue leads nowhere. Her attempts at housekeeping in Sophia’s hotel are laughable, and despite a number of would-be suitors, she has no intention of marrying. The only man who interests her is one she could never consider, for if there’s one thing Victoria knows, it’s that she is not meant to be a minister’s wife.

Pastor Peter Mulholland has never doubted his calling to the ministry … until now. Even though he can’t please everyone, he refuses to let the deacons’ demand that he marry determine his future. He knows the kind of wife they expect him to choose, and it’s not a woman like Victoria. Besides, what does he have to offer her? Perhaps his critics are right, and it’s time for him to leave Carr Valley.

But then a stranger arrives and the whispers begin.

Purchase link: https://amzn.to/4quiSr3

About Amanda:
From the age of seven, Amanda Cabot dreamed of becoming a published author, but it was only when she set herself the goal of selling a book by her thirtieth birthday that the dream came true. A former director of Information Technology, Amanda has written everything from technical books and articles for IT professionals to mysteries for teenagers and romances for all ages. She is now the bestselling author of more than forty novels and a variety of novellas. Her books have been honored with starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Library Journal and have been finalists for the ACFW Carol Award, the HOLT Medallion, and the Booksellers’ Best. For her, a day is incomplete unless it includes books and at least one pot of tea.

Social Media Links
www.amandacabot.com
https://www.facebook.com/amanda.j.cabot
http://amandajoycabot.blogspot.com/

Photo credits:

Author photo and book image: Courtesy Amanda Cabot

Jail Cell: Pixabay/Ichigo121212

On Tour: A Year in the Room

On Tour: A Year in the Room

About the Book

Book: A Year in the Room (The Reluctant Pilgrim Book 2)

Author: Steven Rogers

Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction

Release Date: October 23, 2024

Reluctant pilgrim Ben Cahill steps off a flight from Israel facing an unrelenting list of challenges—a fractured family, no job, no place to live, and a dubious grip on his newly-found sobriety. He has no plans for the next steps in his life.

Ben starts over, settling into a small, rented room and working three part-time jobs. As his first year of recovery unfolds, Ben fights an unrelenting spiritual war against his personal demons and the consequences of his past actions.

Can a chain-smoking, no-nonsense grandmother, a retired navy cook, a crusty old Scotsman, and an unexpected pilgrimage to the legendary Scottish Island of Iona, clear away the wreckage of Ben’s life and lead him to hope? Join Ben on his journey in this sequel to the award-winning novel Into the Room.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Steven Rogers is a Christian author of the “Reluctant Pilgrim” series. His most recent novel, A Year in the Room, was published in November 2024. The book is a sequel to his debut novel, Into the Room, which was published in 2021. In addition to other awards, both books were finalists for the American Christian Fiction Writers’ Carol Awards.

Steven loves the process of writing, especially exploring characters that are either broken or facing unfamiliar situations. They are usually ordinary people confronting their internal demons and the challenges of day-to-day living. He also enjoys bringing his stories to a happy, or at least hopeful, ending.

Steven serves as the Director of Royalty Management and Acquisitions Editor at Elk Lake Publishing, Inc. In addition to writing, Steven is a speaker and enjoys sharing his journey of faith and exploring how God’s word applies in the modern world.

Steven, a proud father of three adult children and one incredibly lucky son-in-law, is happily married to his wife of thirty-nine years, Kathy. They live in Richmond, Virginia.

More from Steven

When I first began writing, I was trying to become the next Stephen King. I was inventing serial killers, violently murdering people, and using time travel as a plot concept. At the time, I didn’t know there was a robust and far-reaching Christian Fiction market.

Things changed in 2017 while I was on a flight to Israel. Somewhere over the Atlantic Ocean, I had the thought, I wonder what would happen if I were an alcoholic who has just been released from rehab, and I HAD to take this trip? I quickly invented my character, Ben Cahill, and took him on the tour with me.

When we got back home, my wife asked what I’d been writing in my journal during our visit to The Holy Land. After I explained, the following exchange took place:

Her: “You may have a book there.”

Me: “That’s not my genre.”

Her (using much gentler language): “You’re not published yet; you don’t have a genre.”

To make a long story short, the result of this conversation was my first novel, Into the Room.

A Year in the Room is Book 2 in my “Reluctant Pilgrim” series. I wrote the book because I was compelled to continue telling Ben Cahill’s story and explore an alcoholic/addict during the first year of recovery.

Many writers fall in love with their characters. I am no different. Writing about Ben has been a blessing for me. His story has significantly impacted my personal spiritual journey, taught me to forgive, and brought me closer to God. I will be forever grateful for his impact on my life.

Interview with Steven: 

What is your favorite thing about being a writer?

I consider writing a mission and a book can only impact one person at a time. As a result, my favorite thing about being a writer is meeting readers and discussing my books. There’s something about the personal connection and hearing what people did or didn’t like about my stories that is both fulfilling and educational. I especially enjoy learning that my story had a positive impact on one of my readers.

My most blessed moment was when a reader of A Year in the Room said, “I actually think I’m a better man for having read this story.” To know that my writing had a positive impact on someone was a compliment beyond anything I could have dreamed of receiving.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

I have a whole presentation on this topic and could talk about it all day long. The most surprising thing I learned was how much my writing impacted my personal faith journey and changed the way I viewed life.

Writing about my protagonist, Ben Cahill, and his struggles with alcoholism taught me to forgive others. It helped clear my heart of resentment, anger, and guilt directed towards the alcoholics/addicts in my life. In addition, walking with Ben through the story helped me to understand better God’s grace and His love for all of us. I genuinely believe that, if these books had never been published, telling Ben’s story would have changed my life.

Can you share a real-life event that inspired your writing?

While A Year in the Room is fictional, the story reflects my own experiences observing alcohol and drug abuse in others. This perspective was forged by living with those around me suffering from the disease, witnessing their recovery, and addressing the impacts those addictions had on me and my life. My journey has led me to do extensive research into the mind of the alcoholic/addict and the reality of alcoholism/addiction as a family disease. No one escapes untouched. I’ve tried to reflect this perspective through the story.

What questions do you ask yourself when preparing to write a new book?

I begin with three questions. First, what is the story I want to tell? Second, have I already told this story? Three, has someone else told the story?

Once I’m satisfied with these three, I ask myself the big question— “Are you vulnerable enough to dig into your soul and expose some of your demons?” To truly impact a reader, an author must be willing to let themselves be seen on the page. This does not mean writing an autobiography or detailing specific events in your life. What it does mean is confronting your emotions and/or behaviors. For example, in writing about my protagonist Ben Cahill’s alcoholism, I had to face my own actions, faults, and addictions, working them, directly and indirectly, into Ben’s personality and the plotline. This is not easy to do, but I believe it makes for an authentic story.

What was the best money you spent as a writer?

Before submitting the manuscript of my first novel, Into the Room, to agents, editors, or publishers, I invested in a professional editor. She provided invaluable feedback and style recommendations. She also requested a few additional scenes that strengthened the story. Once we were completed, she helped me find my publisher, Elk Lake Publishing, Inc. I will forever be grateful to Michele Chynoweth for her counsel and advice.

How do you come up with story lines/book topic?

My ideas primarily come from two mental exercises. First, I constantly ask myself, “I wonder what would happen if?” About ten percent of the time, I get a story idea. Secondly, I mentally practice writing by trying to describe the space around me using imagery and “showing versus telling.” Sometimes my mind wanders further than I planned, and I end up with a short story, sketch, or character I’ll later insert into a longer work.

What was your favorite childhood book and why?

First, I’ll tell you about the childhood book that had the most significant impact on my life. When I was in second grade, my father grew tired of me watching TV and dragged me to the local library, enrolling me in their summer reading program. For each book I read, I received a paper feather to glue onto a picture of a Native American headdress. The first book (something about a swimmer in a neighborhood pool) did not impress me at all. However, the second, The Reluctant Pitcher by Matt Christopher, flipped a switch in my brain, and I became a lifelong lover of reading fiction. Since that eventful summer, I’ve always been reading novels and exploring new authors. I often wonder if my passion would have developed without the experience of reading Mr. Christopher’s books as a seven-year-old boy.

My favorite childhood book was Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. For me, the story was magic, filled with amazing adventures and unforgettable characters. I used to roam the woods behind my house pretending I was Tom. Also, this was the first book I ever bought with my own money. I can still remember the Saturday morning my parents and I stopped at a flea market in Fall River, Massachusetts, when I dug some change out of my pocket to buy an old hardcover copy issued in 1928. The book still sits on my bookshelf today.

Blog Stops

Inspired by Fiction, February 6

Simple Harvest Reads, February 7 (Author Interview)

Books Less Travelled, February 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, February 8

Artistic Nobody, February 9 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, February 10

Guild Master, February 11 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 12

Fiction Book Lover, February 13 (Author Interview)

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, February 14 (Author Interview)

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 15

A Reader’s Brain, February 16 (Author Interview)

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 17 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 17

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, February 18 (Author Interview)

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, February 19 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Steven is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/AqCbw/a-year-in-the-room-celebration-tour-giveaway

On Tour: Plague of Lies

On Tour: Plague of Lies

About the Book

Book: Plague of Lies

Author: Marbeth Skwarczynski

Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction

Release Date: January 6, 2026

Plague of Lies

The man who taught him how to live was living a lie.

Scott Andrews was content to be a rule-follower, happily attending church and youth group while planning a future with his beautiful girlfriend, Cindy. He and his friends planned to change the world. But when his mentor is exposed as a fraud, Scott’s life turns upside down. He’s forced to grow up, but unlike the man who betrayed him, Scott is determined to live honestly.

Lauren spent her life believing she was a mistake. Then, on her eighteenth birthday, a letter arrives from the father she’s never met. It seems out of character for a deadbeat dad who wanted nothing to do with her. But with the letter in hand, Lauren’s life suddenly has a purpose. She’ll confront the man and demand to know why he abandoned her so many years before.

It’s time for the truth to come out.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Like many writers, I began as a reader. My favorite authors were those whose styles were realistic and relatable, so when I began creating my first novel in my thirties, I knew that, above all, I wanted my stories to connect with readers.

My first foray into writing was a book about the biblical character Ruth. I spent years rewriting and shelving the book before finally submitting it to Elk Lake Publishing. They loved the book, and helped me prepare it for publication. Now, my work of biblical fiction, Princess of Moab: A Novel of Ruth, is finished and ready to find its readership.

I also have a contemporary Christian fiction series called The Rose Collection. These timely novels spotlight healing after spiritual abuse. I keep my characters grounded in the real world, so while they grow, learn, and seek solutions, they must also confront the detritus of the past. I write what I know, whether firsthand or through close observation, infusing the joy, happiness, and humor that come with spiritual freedom and love. The Rose Collection goes further than the deconstruction of broken spirits to the reconstruction of rescued souls.

My non-fiction book, The Women Who Set the Precedents: An Exploration of the Bible’s Bill of Rights for Women, is a deep dive into the prophecy of Bathsheba. Each chapter explores the life of a biblical woman as she embodies the principles of empowerment, intelligence, and spiritual maturity mentioned in the iconic, but often misapplied, last chapter of Proverbs.

More from Marbeth

I wrote Plague of Lies during school holidays while teaching at my church’s Christian school and raising two teen boys. Some of the conflict in the novel was inspired by the sudden appearance of a youth pastor from another school (my sons played against that school in basketball and football). He joined our church and was immediately placed in leadership positions. Later, it came out that he was fleeing from a bench warrant.

My story follows the fallout after a beloved church leader and mentor is exposed as a fraud and shuffled off to another church. I wanted to explore what happened to one of the students left behind as he attempts to pick up the spiritual pieces of his life.

While the book contains some heavy subject matter, it also offers hope, encouragement, and relatable main characters.

Scott Andrews, a seventeen-year-old who is blindsided by his mentor’s moral failing, has a failing of his own. But, instead of running away, he repents and becomes determined to live his life with complete honesty.

Eighteen years later, the fallout of the lies and betrayal continues as Lauren Andrews-Gianni reconnects with her long-lost father and learns the truth about her birth, why Scott walked away, and how he remembered her during their forced separation.

The rebuilding of Scott and Lauren’s relationship is the crux of the book and serves as a picture of how our Heavenly Father is preparing a home for us

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 4

Simple Harvest Reads, February 5 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, February 6

Artistic Nobody, February 7 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 8

Guild Master, February 9 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 9

Leslie’s Library Escape, February 10

Fiction Book Lover, February 11 (Author Interview)

Lots of Helpers, February 12

A Reader’s Brain, February 13 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 14

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 15 (Author Interview)

Books Less Travelled, February 16 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, February 16

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, February 17 (Author Interview)

Interview with Marbeth:

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Marbeth is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/vm5xP/plague-of-lies-celebration-tour-giveaway

Talkshow Thursday: Welcome David Mathews

A GUEST BLOG POST

By David Mathews

I have enjoyed writing since I was old enough to correctly hold a #2 pencil, but my first book wasn't published until I was 60 years young. I guess that makes me a bit of a procrastinator; however, in my own defense, I've made up for lost time since then! God has gifted me with a rather active imagination, and I desire to use that to encourage others and to glorify Him. My motivation comes from 1 Peter 4:10, “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” My latest Christian fiction novel is Pig-Sty High: When Pigs Fly, a lighthearted, humorous, small-town tale with an uplifting spiritual message.

When Jason Wisniewski moves to Piggottsville, Arkansas, to start his teaching career, he never expected to find a town so much in need of a pick-me-up. Taking on the role of history teacher and football coach, Jason quickly realizes that he may have bitten off more than he can chew. Even the people in the community see the high school as a joke, and their attitude is rubbing off on the misfit students of Piggottsville High. But sometimes, it takes just one person to believe that a pig can fly before it will. Determined to turn things around for his new hometown, Jason decides to take on the impossible—with the help of the God of the impossible. As he sets about on changing things for the better, Jason will have to face his own fears and deal with an unlikely lot of football players, who may not be winners but can certainly tell you a thing or two about pigs! In a world focused on negative things, Pig-Sty High brings humor into some serious topics and helps the reader to lighten up a little bit when things get tough.

Here is an excerpt from Chapter 6: There's a Skunk in My Classroom!

“Does anyone else notice that?” I asked, sniffing again. “What’s that smell?”

“It’s Skunk!” someone blurted out.

“Skunk!” My adrenaline shot through the roof. “There’s a skunk in here? Everyone, stay calm! I want

you all to slowly get up and walk quietly out of the room. Leave your books and backpacks where they are.” I waved them toward the door, but they weren’t budging. Instead, they were laughing. “Quickly now! I don’t want anyone to get sprayed or bitten. Wild animals can be dangerous!” They were rolling on the floor. I stopped and stared at my class. “What’s going on here? What’s so funny?”

“It’s not a wild animal, Mr. Wisniewski,” Jackson Pressley answered, laughing so hard he could barely form the words. “It’s Willard!”

That was just swell! First guns, then paint, then matches. Now a skunk named Willard. In my classroom, no less! I was beginning to wonder if I’d ever make it to graduation alive. “All right, then; so where’s the skunk?” I demanded firmly. “Would somebody please tell me where this Willard is?”

“He’s right there, teacher.” Jimmy Dean pointed to a scrawny boy slunk down in the corner desk, which had been pulled apart from the others. His hair was a tangled, sandy-brown mop, and his face and arms looked like he hadn’t bathed in years. He was dressed in a soiled T-shirt and filthy jeans full of holes that weren’t meant to be fashion statements. His formerly white tennis shoes were a grimy gray color, and his untied, frayed laces posed a major tripping hazard. He eased up his hand and waved at me.

Purchase Link: https://books2read.com/u/bzl022

Social Media Links:

Website: www.davidjmathews.com
Email: davidmathews.author@yahoo.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davidmathews.author
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/David-Mathews/author/B07G3K4S4K

Photo credits:

Author photo and book image: Courtesy of David Mathews

Social Media Icons: Pixabay/Thomas Ulrich

Movie Monday: Road to Utopia

Movie Monday: Road to Utopia

Released in the U.S. on February 27, 1946, Road to Utopia, fourth in the seven-movie “Road to…” series, was filmed in late 1943 and early 1944. As one site put it, viewers probably would have enjoyed watching during the tense time between Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge, but Hollywood had other plans.

Starring Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, and Dorothy Lamour, Road to Utopia is told in flashback after Chester (Hope) and Sal (Lamour) during a visit by their friend Duke (Crosby) and reminisce about their days in the Alaskan Klondike when the three searched for gold. Various villains chase them for their map while Chester and Duke compete for Sal’s love.

With the usual silly dialogue and slapstick action, Road to Utopia adds innuendo (especially a moment at the end) that surprisingly got past the Motion Picture Production Code as well as the quirky gimmick of Robert Benchley popping in to break the “fourth wall” and offer comments. The plot is thin and includes talking animals and a cameo appearance by Santa Clause.

The film is directed by Hal Walker who directed four of the Road movies and some of Dean Martin’s

and Jerry Lewis’s pictures. A fun fact is that Walker was born in Ottumwa, Iowa (hometown of M*A*S*H character Radar O’Reilly). One source indicates it was the Hope, Crosby, and Lamour trio that convinced studio executives to hire Walker for the series.

By the time she’d been selected as a lead in the Road movies, Lamour had more than a dozen movies under her belt. Crosby and Hope were also film veterans with Crosby’s Hollywood career starting in 1930 and Hope’s a few years later. The supporting cast is filled with characters actors long forgotten but who were well-known at the time. One, Jerry Colonna, would accompany Bob Hope in countless USO tours in the decades following WWII.

Written by Johnny Burke (lyrics) and Jimmy Van Heusen (music), the film’s soundtrack was popular, and “Personality” charted at number nine, and the Johnny Mercer and The Pied Pipers version hit number one. The critics loved the movie and were effusive with their praise. Tenth in the list of top-grossing movies of 1946, Road to Utopia received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay but lost to the British melodrama The Seventh Veil.

Have you seen this classic?

_________________________

Shetland Sunset (Coming 03*06*26):

Bonded by a cause but an ocean apart, will their love survive a world war?

After months in Norway helping his cousins with their fishing business, American Askel Westgard seems trapped when the Germans invade until he has a chance to get back at the Occupiers as part of the Shetlandsgjengen, or Shetland gang, a group of fishermen who transport weapons and equipment from Shetland to Norway under cover of darkness. Unfortunately, the beautiful Norwegian woman he’s just met refuses to join him in safety. Will he ever see her again?

Distraught when the Germans overrun her beloved Norway, Tonje Bondevik refuses to take the occupation sitting down. She joins the fledgling resistance movement, deriving great satisfaction distributing the underground newspaper and performing acts of sabotage…until the day the Nazis come looking for her, and she must flee for her life. Perhaps she should have listened to the handsome Norwegian-American when he offered to take her to Shetland.

Pre-order Link: https://books2read.com/u/4AWqJk

Sources:
https://paramount-pics.fandom.com/wiki/Road_to_Utopia
https://obscurehollywood.net/road-to-utopia-1945.html
https://www.classicmoviehub.com/facts-and-trivia/film/road-to-utopia-1946/
https://laurasmiscmusings.blogspot.com/2025/12/tonights-movie-road-to-utopia-1945-kino.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Road_to_Utopia

Photo credits:
Movie poster: By http://www.impawards.com/1945/road_to_utopia.html. Fair use.
Crosby and Lamour movie still: Courtesy Paramount Pictures
Hope and Crosby movie still: Courtesy Paramount Pictures

Fiction Friday: New Releases in Christian Fiction

 

February 2026 New ReleasesMore in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website

Children’s Middle Grade /Chapter:

The Cowbird’s Truth by Erin Greneaux -- What happens when the most dangerous enemy turns out to be yourself? Maya and Everly continue their quest to find the missing Virtue Gems, and this time, their greatest challenge may be each other. When the evil Deceptra offers them surprising help, including a powerful stone, the sisters must decide whether they can trust her. (Children’s/Middle Grade, Independently Published)

Apple Butter Adventure by Jennifer E. Tirrell and Lisa M. Pritchard -- Join four preteen cousins as they take their first steps toward becoming the kind of young men and women who can be trusted--brave, responsible, and ready to help--right here in the first book of a brand-new mystery series. (Children’s/Middle Grade, Turtledove Publishing)

The Case of the Midnight Mystery by Becca Wierwille -- In this Christian mystery for kids, a girl and her canine sidekick must figure out why strange things keep happening at wilderness camp—in the middle of the night. (Children’s/Middle Grade, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:

Mesmerize by Darlene M. Corbett -- She gave him up but hope to win him back through stories. Set against the backdrop of Las Vegas, Boston, and Dubai, a dazzling romance comes to life. Can a storyteller win back the love of her life through tales sprinkled with faith and love. (Contemporary Romance from WordCrafts Press)

A Texas Easter Blessing by Mindy Obenhaus -- After his marriage fails, single father Ryder Sinclair returns to his hometown with his young son to care for his ailing mother. He’s surprised to run into his teenage crush, Kendall Hunt, whose career as a professional chef has been shaken by scandal. As the two work together to save an Easter event usually hosted by Ryder’s mother, Kendall finds herself longing for this sense of family with Ryder and little Shepard. But when she has a chance to go back to the life she once knew, will she choose the dream she’s spent years chasing…or the new dream that has taken hold of her heart? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Hearts on the Fly by Toni Shiloh -- Jabari Hall has spent his entire life chasing victory on the ice--but one devastating hit leaves him benched, not just from hockey but from the future he thought he had. Now, as he struggles with deteriorating eyesight, his well-meaning teammates set him up on a date, hoping it will cheer him up--only the date they choose is none other than Val Elliott, his ex's sister. Val never expected to be sitting across from Jabari, especially after the way he broke her sister's heart. But when Jabari opens up about his diagnosis, Val's guarded heart softens, and she offers him a listening ear. What begins as a simple friendship quickly turns into something more. (Contemporary Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing Group])

Historical Biblical:

A Deeper Well by Jill Eileen Smith -- In ancient Israel, soon after Nessa is of marriageable age, her father gives her to a wealthy widowed friend, capitalizing on her beauty to bring in the highest bride-price he can find. Nessa is devastated, as she had begged to marry Lavi, who returned her love and saw more in her beyond her appearance. But Nessa's betrothal leads to Lavi's departure, compounding her grief, and she can never forget her forbidden first love. (Historical/Biblical from Revell [Baker Publishing Group])

Historical Romance:

Mail-Order Baroness by Misty M. Beller -- Five sons of an English duke, all raised in the Rocky Mountains…James Balfour, the charming middle son of an English duke, is determined to prove he’s capable of taking leadership of his family’s Montana ranch as the next deadly winter approaches. With the household stretched to its limits, James crafts a clever plan to hire Rose Prescott—his childhood best friend—and to right an old wrong. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Ambush of the Heart by Mary Connealy -- As Owen Riley and his fellow Marshals escort Delaney Bridger, her brother, and an escaped prisoner to Fort Russell, a gang of outlaws ambushes them, bringing death and devastation to their party. With their lives on the line and the outlaws in pursuit, Owen directs the rest of his battered group to seek hiding at a remote ranch. After the attack leaves her brother Boone seriously injured, Delaney helps Owen, nursing Boone and a wounded Marshal back to health while danger looms ever closer. Despite the threat at their heels, romance sparks between Owen and Delaney as they fight for survival on their perilous trek to the fort. Can they overcome the obstacles and find a future together? (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing Group])

Undercover Wish by Danielle Grandinetti -- CHICAGO, Ill., 1892—Stunt reporter Ali Di Stasio will risk anything to expose the truth and protect her fellow orphans, including rummaging through trash bins and putting herself in the crosshairs of the dangerous elite. After living on the streets, she knows every corner of her city, which means she can stay one step ahead of the cops, the powerful men who’d love to silence her before she can reveal their secrets, and the occasional wealthy bachelor wandering through her alleyways, lost and in danger of being mugged. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

To Find Where She Belongs by Robin Lee Hatcher -- Guilt followed her across an ocean. Grace called her home. Desperate to leave Hooke Manor, Keely Boyle does what she feels she must in order to flee England for America, hoping to make a new life with the help of a man who befriended her years before. But when she arrives at Eden’s Gate, a large cattle ranch in the shadows of the Tetons, it is William Overstreet who offers her a fresh start. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Risky Business by Kimberly Keagan -- An American heiress. A British barrister with a need for speed. The London social season that changes everything. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

The Caregiver at Wounded Knee by Debby Lee -- Rose Rushing Water, an Oglala Sioux trained back East in nursing, is torn between two brothers--one who seeks to appease the government and one who fights to cling to the old ways at all costs. Tribal policeman Nathaniel Gray Cloud struggles to keep peace on the reservation and support his sister, who is also desperate to hold on to family traditions. Can Rose and Nathaniel find a peace that comes only from God, or will they lose their families and their lives as tensions reach a boiling point at Wounded Knee Creek, South Dakota? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Texas Reclaimed by Sherry Shindelar -- Cora Scott is determined to hold onto her family's Texas ranch and provide a stable home for her young half-brother, Charlie, despite the mounting challenges of post-Civil War frontier life. But when a scheming creditor threatens to seize their land, she must accept help from Ben McKenzie, a former Yankee soldier sent by her late brother. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Mists Over the Channel Islands by Sarah Sundin -- In World War II, Dr. Ivy Picot risks her life to treat men who have escaped from the German forced labor camps in her native Jersey. But when Dutch engineer Gerrit van der Zee sneaks maps of fortifications off the island, it could cost them both everything they love. (Historical Romance from Revell [Baker Publishing Group])

Mining for Love by Candice Sue Patterson -- Petite, fierce, and respected by the men who work for her, Daisy Connelly rules her rare watermelon tourmaline mine in Newry, Maine, with an iron will. When profits begin to vanish and the local sheriff refuses to intervene, Daisy realizes someone is stealing from her—and that remaining an unmarried woman may make her an easy target. So she does the unthinkable. Daisy proposes a marriage of convenience to private investigator Samson Gray, hoping a sudden husband will draw the culprit into the open. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Romantic Suspense:

Deadly Rodeo Threat by Sami A. Abrams -- A trail of missing women...leads him right into a killer’s trap. When his twin sister disappears, Navy SEAL Logan Russell’s search for her leads him deep into the woods, where he finds her best friend in the clutches of a masked assailant. Sheriff Isabelle Sinclair is determined to solve Lisa’s mysterious disappearance the night of her last rodeo—and someone will do anything to keep her from digging too deep (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired Suspense [Harlequin])

Deadly Currents by Elizabeth Goddard -- Investigative journalist Cressida arrives in Hidden Bay after a worldwide journey to finish her late father's manuscript on shipwrecks. As she tries to discover the story behind the "ghost ship" Specter's Bounty, her only lead is a name her father left behind--Evelyn Monroe. As Cressida uncovers more about the ship, she quickly realizes that her research has placed her in the crosshairs of dangerous forces. (Romantic Suspense from Revell [Baker Publishing Group])

Asher by Melanie D. Snitker -- Nova Sheridan’s world is shattered when a corporate conference becomes a hunting ground. With two of her colleagues murdered and a mysterious package left in her care, she finds herself in the crosshairs of a ruthless killer. Unsure of who to trust, Nova turns to her old college friend, Asher Durham, a seasoned security specialist. As they navigate a web of deception and danger, Nova and Asher must rely on their wits and each other to survive. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

A Royal Request by Paige Edwards -- A forged signature. A splintering romance. And a stalker who won’t quit until death do they part. Anabelle thought the flowers were from her boyfriend... She was wrong. (Romantic Suspense from Balquidder Books)

Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:

The Restitching of Camille DuLaine by Lindsay A. Franklin -- When Emlyn DuLaine accidentally bridges multiple storyworlds, she must untangle their collapsing realities—and rescue her long-lost sister Camille from a storybook trap—before a plan seventeen years in the making shatters the universe for good. (Speculative/Fantasy from Enclave Publishing [Oasis Family Media])

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

On Living Stone by Heather Kaufman -- An unexpected romance and the gift of two sons, James and John, leave Salome hopeful and resolved to prove herself as a mother. Salome’s dreams are challenged, however, when her sons answer the call to follow Jesus of Nazareth. (Biblical/Historical)

Threads of Grace by Tara Baisden -- When a January storm sends her new landlord to her door because of a roof leak, quilt shop owner Melanie Harper has no idea that this quiet, guarded doctor will unravel every careful protection she has spent years stitching around her heart. (Contemporary Romance)

Katie’s Cowboy by Ruth Kyser -- Following in his father’s footsteps, C.J. Morgan is an FBI agent. Growing up, that was all he ever wanted to be. But when his grandfather passes away and C.J. returns to Bluecreek Ranch, he’s filled with doubts about his future. Then C.J. meets Katie Jo MacAllister… (Contemporary Romance)

Rebuilding His Trust by Jenna Mindel -- Meredith and Jace, who've guarded their hearts because of past hurts, find the greatest gift of love. (Contemporary Romance)

The Lies We Trade by Kristine Delano -- A high-powered Wall Street career, a beautiful family in a quiet suburban neighborhood―she seems to have everything. Which means she has everything to lose. (Contemporary Suspense)

Through Smoke and Secrets by Rebecca Hemlock -- A century-old secret. A relentless enemy. One Locket that was never meant to be found. (Crime Suspense)

Severed Ties by Taylor S. Newport -- He’s left the past where it belongs. But then it comes knocking at his door. (Military Suspense)

Where Men Stand by Charlene Amsden -- On his first day out of prison, Martin "Kage" Kincaid has to decide if he is going to live up to the Biblical principles he learned, or choose to walk away and let injustice prevail. (Romantic Suspense)

Love on the Frontier Trail by Shannon McNear, Andrea Byrd, Pegg Thomas, Susan F. Craft, Denise Farnsworth, Megan Soja -- Journey across the rugged wilds of early America in a sweeping collection of historical romances where danger presses close, faith lights the way, and courage opens the door to unexpected love. (Historical Romance)

A Guest Post by Dieta Scheidecker

A Guest Post

By Dieta Scheidecker

In the fall of 2023, something started stirring. I kept reading about the fire of God. Scripture was jumping out at me, creating a dialogue that kept getting longer and longer.

Then one day, Isaiah 35:8 came to life. A Highway of Holiness.

I saw a vision of a road with deep ditches on either side. I saw forks in the road where it split into smaller paths. I saw it winding through prairies, forests, and mountains. Then I saw a girl walking on the road. Sometimes alone, sometimes with others, not all of them friends. Some would come and go, others never to return. And finally, I saw that only the main road went to a magnificent, light-filled castle. All the other little offshoots wandered away to nothing.

This vision haunted me. A deep yearning to do something with it burned inside me. One night, the words of a friend set it afire. “Just write it. It doesn’t matter where you begin. Just start, the rest will come.”

The next day, The Fire and The Serpent series was born.

Isaiah 35:8 was the catalyst for the story, but Holy Spirit is the true author. I had concepts from scripture and knew the main character would be tied to me personally. As for how the storyline worked out, that was a total surprise.

God challenged me on a lot of the ideas. Or I should say, I challenged Him! “Lord, this will offend people.

Is this how You want to be portrayed? Are You sure this is where it’s supposed to go? Does this even make sense?”

Then the hidden layer under the main story began to emerge, and it became two stories in one. The surface story about a girl struggling with identity. The deeper layer about the Trinity and the age-old battle between good and evil.

What started as a narrative turned into a journey. Not just for the characters, but for me. I became the main character. Her insecurities, doubts, and fears were mine as well. And through a crazy trek in a world one layer away from ours, I began to heal and let go.

This story was never about building a fantasy world or writing an interesting tale. It was about wrestling with Truth, discovering identity in Christ, and letting go of offense.

It was an invitation to surrender my doubts and let God speak in ways I could not—through His fire.

The Fire and The Serpent- Book One: Sojourners

2025 Independent Author Network Book of the Year Finalist Awards (Christian/Religious Fiction & Spiritual Fiction)
2025 Readers’ Favorite Finalist Award (Christian Fiction)

 
“Ahhh, my dear girl,” the creature croons. “I have been waiting for one such as you. How fascinating that my adversary has chosen someone so… insignificant. Who would have thought…”

An invitation to travel a path many have chosen to abandon…
A calling hidden in the weakest vessel….
An enchanting enemy with a wicked agenda…
A king who isn’t all he appears to be…

The path before Kenna is one few choose to follow. Darkness is seeping into the hearts and minds of the people, whispering lies and twisting the truth. Nothing is as it seems. To follow the Path of the King is to risk everything she thought she knew—about the world and about herself. This journey is more than a test of strength; it’s a test of identity. Kenna thought she knew who she was, but it was all a lie.

Purchase Links:
https://amzn.to/3YULVba(print & ebook)
https://bookshop.org/shop/Dieta (print only) 

https://books2read.com/u/4Xpgoe (ebook only)

About Dieta: 

Dieta Scheidecker is a Wisconsin-based author, worship leader, and songwriter. Inspired by stories that stir the soul and challenge the mind, she brings a reflective voice to fantasy adventure and speculative fiction. Her award-winning debut novel, SOJOURNERS, launched her THE FIRE AND THE SERPENT series, which explores spiritual truth through allegory, suspense, and action. Her short story IN THE BETWEEN offers a powerful glimpse into the emotional and redemptive themes that shape her work.

Dieta is also the founder of Spoken Flame Company, a Christian-based coaching,and editing service dedicated to helping authors bring their stories to light.
When she’s not writing, reading, or creating music, you’ll find her exploring the outdoors—hiking rugged trails, camping off-grid, or chasing mountain views out West, always searching for the next spark of inspiration.

Social Media Links:
Website: https://www.spokenflamecompany.com/authorpage
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DietaScheideckerAuthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dietascheideckerauthor/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DietaScheideckerAuthor/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/55249664.Dieta_Scheidecker
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/dietascheidecker

Photo credits:

Author photo and book image: Courtesy Dieta Scheidecker

Notebook and Fountain Pen: Pixabay/Pexels