It is always a bittersweet moment when I reach the final words of a delightful and much-loved series, and Julie Klassen’s memorable “Tales from Ivy Hill” is definitely no exception. “The Bride of Ivy Green” is the final installment of the trilogy published by Bethany House, and allows readers one last visit to the beloved little town of Ivy Hill and all its inhabitants. If you have already enjoyed “The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill” and “The Ladies of Ivy Cottage”, you will be delighted with this satisfying, and oftentimes surprising, final installment. Continue reading
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Many women around the world have found hope, encouragement, and inspiration from the messages of Lysa TerKeurst’s numerous books. Her newest release from Thomas Nelson Publishers is entitled “It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way: Finding Unexpected Strength When Disappointments Leave You Shattered”, and is undoubtedly her most raw and transparent book to date. In these pages, Lysa helps us process a question that we all ask at some point in our lives; “What do you do when God’s timing seems questionable, His lack of intervention hurtful, and His promises doubtful?” Sound familiar? Then you’ve come to the right place. 
With her new release from Thomas Nelson publishers, Tamera Alexander once again reminds her readers precisely why she is a bestselling author – her stories are masterfully written with powerful themes and unforgettable characters, often revolving around true historical events. “With This Pledge” is undoubtedly her most heart-wrenching work to date, yet also one of her most beautiful, as it contrasts the unimaginable horrors of the Civil War with the promise and hope of God’s unending and never-failing love. While it will take courage to read this incredible story, the rewards that it offers by helping us deepen our empathy, faith, and hope, are more than worth it. 
Do you enjoy Christian Historical Fiction with a western setting and a flair for humor? I know I do! Regina Jennings’ newest novel from Bethany House is the second in her “Fort Reno” series, and is entitled “The Lieutenant’s Bargain”. Although recurring characters from “Holding the Fort” appear regularly, this is a story all it’s own – with plenty of sweet romance, a taste of wild west danger, a dose of laugh-out-loud humor, and some thought-provoking themes about faith, trust, idols, and love. It is also set during the Christmas season, making it a fun story to read in December. 
Dr. Caroline Leaf’s newest book makes the ideal New Year’s gift, both for yourself and for your loved ones. “Switch On Your Brain Every Day: 365 Readings for Peak Happiness, Thinking, and Health” is a new release from BakerBooks, and makes fantastic daily reading material for anyone who has enjoyed Dr. Leaf’s previous works, such as “Switch On Your Brain” and “The Perfect You”. It could also certainly be enjoyed and learned from even if you haven’t read these titles, but the greatest benefit will be gained if you are familiar with the concepts of Dr. Leaf’s Switch On Your Brain 5-Step Learning Process. 
When it comes to Romantic Suspense, I have pretty strict criteria that the novel must meet before it earns a place on my “keeper” shelf. “In Too Deep” is the second story in Lynn H. Blackburn’s “Dive Team Investigations” series from Revell Publishers, and it is one that I am happy to say meets all of my expectations. 
John Eldredge is one of my go-to authors for spiritual development books. I was absolutely thrilled to see a year-long devotional as his newest book: “Restoration Year: A 365-Day Devotional”. 
Adulting. . . You’ve probably heard the word, and perhaps read a humorous joke or cartoon about the concept of becoming an adult in today’s world. But have you ever questioned how to actually ‘Adult’ (a verb) in a responsible and God-honoring way that will lay a solid foundation for the rest of your life? Or, have you ever asked the question “I’m an adult…NOW WHAT?” If either of these questions applies to you, a new release from BakerBooks written by pastor Jonathan “JP” Pokluda with Kevin McConaghy is definitely one that should be added to your TBR list. 
The American Civil War is the setting of many novels, but have you ever read a story from the Amish perspective of the War Between the States? Jan Drexler’s new release from Revell Publishing, entitled “The Sound of Distant Thunder”, combines historical research with a compelling personal saga as it explores this very question: how can a group of people, who are nonresistance-based due to religion, live conscientiously in times of war and especially when the draft (compulsory recruitment) is brought into play? 
Critics are claiming that Kelly Irvin’s new release from Thomas Nelson is romantic suspense at it’s best. “Tell Her No Lies” is definitely a well-written and hair-raising ride from start to finish, packed with twists and turns that readers will never see coming. If you enjoy novels that leave you breathless as you flip the pages faster and faster, desperate to find out how it all unravels, this book is definitely one to consider… However, you should also be forewarned that there is plenty of violence, and even descriptive murder scenes, that may prove troubling if you aren’t expecting them. 