christfic

Marie Sontag writes youth fiction blending fictional characters with historical people to create a great story. From ancient times to westward expansion to WWII Poland, her books make history come alive. Listen in to what you'll find in her latest series!

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In Difficult Times, People of All Ages Discover Their True Characters

The first time I chatted with Marie Sontag (listen HERE), I learned about her Ancient Elements series and her Whitcomb Discoveries series, but in this episode, we heard all about the exciting WWII series (and a companion graphic novel) she has featuring Polish Boy Scouts.  How cool is that?

Oh, and we learned about what she's doing with the Cold War, too. EEEP!

Underground Scouts by Marie Sontag

Warsaw, Poland

September 8, 1939

Their scoutmaster's chair squeaked as he shifted his weight. "What I am about to ask from all of you is a personal sacrifice on behalf of Poland. Your final decision is, of course, up to you. You must each make your own decision."

A hush filled the room. The Scouts' pale faces betrayed the struggle that plagued them all.

Tadzio broke the spell. "I mean no disrespect, Professor. I don't know why my father had to leave, but since he's gone, my family is my priority."

Squaring her shoulders, Magdalena inched forward on her chair. "And earlier this week my father's brother and his wife were killed when a bomb hit their apartment building in Warsaw." Her voice quivered. "Now, we're also caring for our orphaned 11-year-old cousin, Józefina."

Tadzio nodded. "Since I am the eldest son, my first responsibility is to my family."

"Well spoken, son." Professor Handelsman studied Tadzio over the top of his glasses. "What about the rest of you?"

Tadzio's patrol leader, Andrzej, spoke first. "This is what we've prepared for all summer. The Scout training we received in the Kampinos Forest these past few months-first aid, food storage, water purification, map reading skills, Morse Code, riflery-it all prepared us for this moment. I will give my all for Poland."

Lech smoothed back his thick, black hair. "Andrzej's right. It's time to take a stand."

First Lech, then Andrzej, and finally Lech's younger brother, Stefan, rose to their feet with raised chins, they punched their fists into the air and shouted in unison. "Czuwaj!

Be vigilant! Stay awake! Be prepared!"

Tadzio and Magdalena weren't prepared for their Polish Scoutmaster's challenge. Not until their parents disappeared. A Young Adult historical novel, Underground Scouts brings to light the brave efforts of Polish Boy Scouts and Girl Guides who fought alongside the Polish Underground during World War II.

Learn more about Marie on her WEBSITE (and learn about her group of Christian youth authors) and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

My apologies to Marie for the lateness of her episode. It was supposed to release about the time of my husband's accident, and I just realized it never did!  AAAK!

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What do you get when you mix faith, family, and small towns?  Well with Jessica Kate's latest release, Drive You Crazy, you get a hilarious "loathe to love" romcom in her new Amity Creek series!  Listen in to learn more!

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Jessica Kate, author of A Girl's Guide to the Outback and Love and Other Mistakes, has a fun new small-town romcom series set in Washington State.  I mean, she had me at "romcom" but then when she says it kicks off when a guy our heroine calls Dracula drops a tree on her car, I was 100% all in. Can you blame me?

But while Amity Creek only has one full-length novel (just released), there are a few short novels/stories as well.  

Not only that, but she's just released Three Aussie Kisses and A New Year's Kiss as well!

Drive You Crazy by Jessica Kate

Fans of Emily Henry and Gilmore Girls will adore this swoon-worthy enemies-to-love romance about how faith, family and small towns are never as simple as they seem.

Bubbly newspaper editor Ashley Anderson is ecstatic to finally call this small town in Washington State 'home'—until she accidentally angers her newspaper's biggest advertisers, and they boycott. Her neighbor Justin has the family connections to get the town back on her side—but asking for help from the man she's nicknamed 'Dracula' is a last resort.

Living next door, rebel-with-a-cause teacher Justin Hastings can't escape Amity Creek fast enough. But when a good deed goes awry, it's his fault that Ashley's car is out of action, and they're forced to carpool until he can make things right.

Thrust into one another's daily lives, Ashley and Justin learn that little is black-and-white—not small-town life, not family, and not each other. But there's a fork in the road, and it seems God has these two destined for separate paths. Can the road less traveled ever lead them back to love?

Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in this must-read inspirational romance about the complexities—and the beauty—of true love in all its forms.

Learn more about Jessica Kate on her WEBSITE. Also, follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

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Anyone who knows Nancy C. Williams knows that she can tell a great story.  I've sat around tables listening to her tales for years and never get tired of it.  Listen in to the stories she tells about Siberia, Seabees, wasps (not capitalized), and FedEx.  

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What Do Houses with Chicken Legs Have to Do with Russian MIGs?

Nancy C. Williams has been writing advertising copy and other professional works for over thirty years, but now that she's dipped her toes into fiction, she's got the bug, and she's here to tell us about it.

Her novel, To Love a Falcon, is the latest in the Ever After Mystery Series (the 1940s line) and features the Russian fairy tale "Finist the Falcon."  While you don't need to read the fairy tale to enjoy the novel, it's short and you will get little nuggets out of Nancy's story that you might have missed otherwise.

Nancy drew on her experience going to Siberia for her son's adoption, a story her father-in-law told about WWII, and even her time with FedEx riding in the jump seat (think Tom Hanks and Castaway. Nancy didn't crash, thank goodness!)

Add to that Providential provision in her writing center of a whole display of Russian toys and fairy tales and well... she just had to write this book.  I do not confess to begging her to do it. Nope. No confession here.  *whistles.

To Love a Falcon by Nancy C. Williams

When life already seems bleak, the Russians send her deeper into Siberia.

Aircraft mechanic Katya Morozov longs for her beloved Mikhail, a Russian naval officer, to return from war. But when an unwanted work assignment takes her far from her home into remote Siberia, Katya faces threats—perhaps because she and her father were engaged in covert protection for persecuted Christians.

A chance encounter with charming test pilot, Yuri Sokolov, turns into more than a passing acquaintance...igniting the flames of a conflict between Katya’s faithfulness to Mikhail and her growing attraction to the enigmatic pilot. Will messages from a mysterious woman in the woods give her the wisdom and strength she needs?

Yuri, who has hidden battles of his own, must likewise make a decision—does he follow his dreams or pursue the lovely mechanic who has captured his heart?

To Love a Falcon, a retelling of the Russian fairy tale “Finist the Falcon,” takes readers into the intrigues of Russian operatives, the stark landscape of Siberian winters, and the courage of those who risk death for faith and love.

To learn more about Nancy C. Williams, visit her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

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After tons of research with little information to draw on, Jill Eileen Smith has written a "what could have been" novel that releases February 27th (with a big party on Facebook, too!). Listen in to learn more about The Ark and the Dove.

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What Kind of Woman Gets in a Boat to Avoid a Little Rain? 

After her Daughter of Eden and the story of what might have been with Eve in the Garden, its shouldn't surprise us that Jill Eileen Smith has tackled the story of the flood in The Ark and the Dove. 

Jill talked about her research, her visit to The Ark Encounter, and even the names she chose for the missies on that Ark. We covered what life might have been like (the first cabin fever perhaps?  Vitamin D deficits--again, for the first time?) and then went on to get a peek at what is coming next. Eeep!

Jill also told us about a Facebook event on the 27th of February--games, prizes, and Jill will be there as well.  You can RSVP HERE.

The Ark and the Dove by Jill Eileen Smith

Zara and Noah have walked together with the Creator for their entire lives, and they have done their best in an increasingly wicked and defiant world to raise their three sons to follow in their footsteps. It has been a challenge--and it's about to get much, much harder.

When the Creator tells her husband to build an ark to escape the coming wrath against the sins of humankind, Zara steps out with him in faith. But the derision and sabotage directed their way from both friends and extended family are difficult to bear, as is knowing that everyone she interacts with beyond her husband, her sons, and their wives is doomed to destruction. And when the ark is finally finished and the animals have been shut up inside, Zara and her family embark on an adventure that will test their patience and their faith as they await deliverance and dry ground.

Experience the story of Noah and the flood like you never have before. With bestselling and award-winning author Jill Eileen Smith as your guide, you'll never look at a rainbow the same way again.

You can get The Ark and the Dove at 30% off with free shipping (as of today, anyway!) at BakerBookHouse.com.

Learn more about Jill at her WEBSITE.  

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What do you get when mesh elements of Harry Potter, Indiana Jones, and National Treasure?  How about a YA Fantasy adventure that combines travel (especially in eastern countries and other worlds) with superpowers!  Put out through Tyndale's Wander imprint, the Beacon Hill Series by D. J. Williams sounds crazy exciting, and I am rooting for a streaming series (but there are other possible options, too!) Listen in to learn more!

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You Can Never Have Enough Exciting YA Fantasy, Right?

The Beacon Hill series (or at least the school/friend group) was inspired by D. J. Williams' own youth living in Hong Kong. Add to that extensive travel throughout the world (don't miss his elephant story while on location in Zambia!) and you've got a background that can offer a thrilling ride!  I can't wait to read these books and they're on their way to my house as I type, so eeep!

One thing I noticed when I read the synopsis of Secrets of the Highlands (book two--available and book 3 comes out later this year) is that it reads a bit like a tabletop role-playing game come to life! The whole quest and trying to find a healer thing really caught my eye (having attempted to play said games and failing miserably! LOL).

But D. J. Williams has written more than just the Beacon Hill series. He also has his adult thrillers and a new series he just started working on, so I think we're in for a long, literary ride with this guy. I can't wait to get started.

Hunt for Eden's Star by D. J. Williams

Discover the story of an intrepid, globe-trotting teen and a motley group of friends in a world where choices have epic consequences.

In this new coming-of-age YA fantasy novel full of action-packed adventure, Williams tells the tale of a teen who is thrown into a world of ancient secrets when he discovers a supernatural artifact that protects a weapon of mass destruction. With the help of a diverse group of friends, he embarks on a global adventure, seeking the truth about his sister’s death. He uncovers two clandestine, supernatural societies waging an epic, hidden war that threatens the future of civilization.

As Jack races to collect ancient artifacts critical to the survival of the world, readers are transported to incredible international locales across Asia, including the lush jungles of the Philippines and the high-energy streets of Hong Kong. Themes of addiction, revenge, faith, and friendship emerge as Jack battles literal and psychological demons, and even his own friends and family members, on his quest to thwart the forces of evil.

In this novel, you will find:

• Relatable characters
• Clean and compelling YA fantasy
• The first in a series—more exciting material to come!

D. J. Williams’s suspenseful, page-turning style whisks readers into a wildly exciting, supernatural adventure that grabs hold of the imagination and never lets go.

“Fast-paced action and a rich setting boost the beginning of a promising paranormal saga.” - Kirkus Reviews on Hunt for Eden’s Star

“A blistering, high-stakes, fast-paced supernatural thriller that’s impossible to put down.” - Ryan Steck, author of Fields of Fire

Learn more about D. J. Williams from his WEBSITE and follow him on BookBub and GoodReads.

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Whenever I get a chance to chat with Joanna Davidson Politano, I know I'm going to have a good time, and this time was no exception. With her new book, The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple releasing this April, she has a lot of fun preorder stuff going on that you won't want to miss hearing about, but even better, she shared a lot of interesting information about the earliest days of silent films. Listen in to learn all about it

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Why Historical Research Creates Some of the Best Fiction Ever!

The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple takes place at the beginning of the Edwardian period and showcases England's approach to the silent movie scene. From slapstick ridiculousness to the whole of Cinderella squeezed into three minutes, the shows weren't what you'd expect, but they were exciting and innovative. Joanna has turned that scene into the story of a silent film star who isn't known for telling the truth but does have a sapphire that some think she shouldn't. Add in a rigid police inspector and a lot of mystery, and I think we can safely say that Joanna has done it again!

Plus... we got a hint of what's coming next.  Am I the only one going, "Hmmm... what kind of title will this one get???"?

The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple by Joanna Davidson Politano

Peter Driscoll, an underground investigator to the wealthy, has never met anyone like Lily Temple. The beautiful silent-film actress spins fairy tales and plays frivolous roles in front of the cine-camera, but beneath the costumes and stage makeup is a woman with a quick wit--and a murky past.

Peter has been tasked with locating the legendary Briarwood Teardrop, an exquisite sapphire, which Lily wears beneath her gown. In order to stay close to her and hopefully unravel the mystery of her story--and the sapphire--Peter employs Lily's help on a case, which leads to a useful partnership. But as they are investigating together, Peter is also investigating Lily. The closer he gets to the truth, the more danger they face. And the closer he gets to Lily, the clearer it is that he needs her even more than she needs him.

Award-winning author Joanna Davidson Politano whisks you away to Edwardian England in 1903 for a whimsical and layered tale that treads the crooked line between real and make-believe

Preorder your copy of The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple for 40% off with free shipping from BakerBookHouse.com and then go to Joanna's FACEBOOK PAGE to fill out a form to enter her giveaways!  And don't forget to check out her Reader Group on Facebook.

Also... GoodReads and BookBub are good places to follow authors.

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My most anticipated read of 2024 is Of Love and Treason by debut author, Jamie Ogle. This exploration of St. Valentine's life takes us out of the modern idea of "Valentine's Day" back to Valentine's "day" to see what may have sparked the legend surrounding him. Listen in as we talk about what sparked Jamie's interest in this story and what we can see next from her.

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Why Is Of Love and Treason My Most Anticipated Read of 2024?

Chatting with Jamie Ogle was wonderful.  We talked about books we love, about research, and especially about researching a book with little information out there--there's no proof that Valentine even existed, so... now what?

On top of all that, we also chatted about her next book (March of next year... EEEP!) and where she sees her writing going in the future (hint: she's staying historical!)

Of Love and Treason by Jamie Ogle

Valentine defies the emperor and becomes a hero . . . and the most wanted man in the empire. Compelled by his faith, he has nothing to lose, until a chance encounter with the daughter of a Roman jailor changes everything.

Rome, AD 270. In the wake of the emperor’s marriage ban, rumors swirl that there is one man brave enough to perform wedding ceremonies in secret. A public notarius and leader of an underground church, Valentine believes the emperor’s edict unjust and risks his own life for the sake of his convictions. But as his fame grows, so do fears for his safety.

Iris, the daughter of a Roman jailor, believes regaining her sight will ease the mounting troubles at home. Her last hope rests in searching out Valentine and his church, but the danger of associating with people labeled a threat to the empire is great. Still, as Iris's new friends lead her to faith in God, Iris is drawn to Valentine and they both begin to hope for a future together beyond the treacherous empire.

But when a past debt and a staggering betrayal collide, Valentine, Iris, and everyone they love must fight for their lives . . . and wrestle with trusting a God who can restore sight yet does not always keep His followers from peril.
Discussion questions for book clubs

• Discussion questions for book clubs
• Retelling of the legend of St. Valentine
• First Christian historical romance novel set in ancient times by author Jamie Ogle

Learn more about Jamie Ogle on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

Of Love and Treason releases January 23, 2024.

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Historical fiction author, Karen Baney, recently branched into contemporary with The Air I Breathe and now with her new Vargas Ranch series.  Recently, Falling for a Real Cowboy released, and soon her Falling for a Shy Cowboy will release as well.  Listen in to how she came up with this series and why she branched out into cowboy romance.

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Listening to Karen describe Falling for a Real Cowboy and how she came up with the Vargas Ranch family story, the brand, the family motto--it's all amazing (and available on her website. Just sayin').

This book features a failing romance writer showing up in Arizona to learn about ranch life so she can write cowboy romance and... finding a romance of her own. 

Then we chatted about her upcoming release, Falling for a Shy Cowboy, and the characters in there. A shy cowboy with a speech impediment, a prodigal best friend's sister, and that sister's disabled boy.  

I fully expect to have a battered heart by the time I finish these. Just sayin'.

Falling for a Real Cowboy by Karen Baney

She’s trying to resurrect her career. He’s sworn off women. Will this city-meets-country duo find love where they least expect it?

Dalton J. Vargas the fourth has sworn off love. Women are just a distraction that keep him from running his family’s multi-million-dollar guest ranch near Wickenburg, Arizona. After his father announces an early retirement, the full burden of the ranch rests on his shoulders. When a city-slicker romance author stays at the ranch, Dalton’s perfect world turns to chaos.

River Sloane’s last workplace romance novel flopped—big time. Now her publisher wants her to write a modern-day cowboy romance, which she has resisted for years. When her publisher sends her to a dude ranch in the middle of nowhere Arizona, she must learn about cowboys and ranching to get her career back on track. One hunky cowboy stirs her heart and unexpectedly becomes her muse.

Will she let herself fall in love with the real cowboy or will she return to the life she left behind? Will Dalton open his heart to a new, lasting love?

Find out more about Karen Baney on her WEBSITE and follow her on BookBub and GoodReads.

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Having the chance to chat with a dear friend about her book is always a treat.  So when Denise L. Barela chatted to me about her mystery, Silencing the Siren, I knew we'd have a lot of fun. Boy, did we. From the first ideas on this mystery through the new series she's considering, and where she wants to take her writing in the future, Denise has a lot to share.  Listen in to learn about her writing and how you can listen to her book free!

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Why an Almost Love At First Sight Mystery Actually Works!

Denise L. Barela's debut novel is the seventh in the Ever After Mysteries. These fairy-tale retellings set in the twenties (and now the forties!) feature fun mashups of those beloved tales with some kind of mystery. Denise chose "The Little Mermaid" and went to town combining 1920s New York City and Coney Island with that fairy tale and a freak show attraction that causes all kinds of trouble in various ways.

One thing I liked is how the "love at first sight" aspect of the original story played out in Denise's. She focused on Annabel's character and, being so different from the superficiality he lived with, it drew him in.  No, it's not a romance, but this mystery does have romance in it, and Denise made that tough trope work.

The research Denise did involved widely differing topics--from novelty gifts (doorbells, folks!), to car technology advancements, to just how hard it was to find a map of New York City for the era!

Of course, that sparked a discussion on research for her other book and how she discovered rewritten history ruining her plans for it.  Enter rewrites. Sigh.

Finally, we discussed the sorts of books she wants to write, her conversation with Jaime Jo Wright, and where she plans to take things after she does one more mystery-themed series.  Clue is coming like you've never seen it.

Silencing the Siren by Denise L. Barela

Andrew Grayson thought he had everything… until he met her.

The indulged son of wealthy parents, Andrew has always gotten whatever he wanted almost before he knew he wanted it—clothes, gadgets… even a car! What more could a young man desire?

Enter Annabel Thompson. Freakshow mermaid extraordinaire… in a wheelchair!

Of course, her beauty attracts him. How could it not? Add to that a kind heart, and Andrew can’t help but fall for her.

Annabel’s connection with the freakshow repels his parents and their society friends. They want him to sever all ties with her and his new friends. Oh, and marry the “right” girl with the “right connections.” But he won’t do it. He’ll defy them and marry his little mermaid.

When Annabel turns up missing, declared dead, things don’t add up, Andrew begins asking some difficult questions, the most important being, “What happened to the little mermaid of the Coney Island freak show?”

Find out in this next book in the Ever After Mysteries, combining beloved fairy tales and mysteries. Silencing the Siren offers a retelling of “The Little Mermaid” that will keep you gripped to the edge of your seat as you watch the story unfold.

Learn more about Denise L. Barela on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.  You can listen to Silencing the Siren free on her YouTube Channel.

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The split-time Amish Memories series by Leslie Gould continues with book two, This Passing Hour, releasing in just over a week, and oh wow does this series sound exciting. Listen in as we discuss history, its echoes, and the series that illustrates them through the stories of different plain people through the years.

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Can Anything Be Better than a Gripping Split-Time Story?

Author of numerous bestselling Amish novels, Leslie Gould does something I've never seen before--she writes AMISH split-time!  The influences of World War II on Mennonites and Amish in both Germany and America? Well, how could it not be riveting?

I loved hearing about her research into Nazi sympathies both in America and in Germany and comparing research and other books that use similar situations in different ways. 

Leslie Gould also writes Amish rom-coms!  How cool is that?  And her next series?  Yep, heading back that way.

The Passing Hour by Leslie Gould

After the death of her parents, Mennonite Brenna Zimmerman relocates to the Lancaster County farm of her Old Order Amish grandparents. There, she befriends Rylan Sanders, a disabled veteran, and commits to rising above her own grief to help him as much as she can. But when things take a turn for the worse, Brenna finds herself at a loss for what to do.

As Brenna struggles, her Mennonite friend Johann Mazur, a soldier in the Ukrainian Army, encourages her to distance herself from Rylan. But when she discovers that Rylan's army buddies are withholding secrets that could help with his psychological healing, Brenna is torn between her feelings for Johann and her commitment to help Rylan.

Inspired by the story of her distant relative who served with the Red Cross and supervised German POWs during World War II, Brenna considers her own future and must decide whether she has the courage to give up the comforts she craves for the life she truly wants.

The Passing Hour is available at BakerBookHouse for 40% off with free shipping through 11/27/23!

Learn more about Leslie Gould on her WEBSITE and follow her on BookBub and GoodReads.

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If you've been anywhere on social media in the past six months, you've probably seen the stunning cover for The Warsaw Sisters by Amanda Barratt.  Well, that book is here, it's available, and she and I talk about where she got the idea for the book, her love of WWII fiction, and what she's been reading. Listen in to learn all the things!

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Why Do Stories of Courage and Resilience Inspire Us?

The Warsaw Sisters takes a look at the Polish resistance through the lens of a special sister relationship. Listening to Amanda Barratt talking about her books, this one in particular, shows her great love for history, for strong, courageous people, and for the Lord and how He loves His people well, even (if not especially) in the difficult times.

The movie I mentioned was Jakob the Liar with Robin Williams. Caveat: this is a HARD movie.  An ugly one.  And it should be. But I did have to offer a warning.

The Warsaw Sisters by Amanda Barratt

On a golden August morning in 1939, sisters Antonina and Helena D?browska send their father off to defend Poland against the looming threat of German invasion. The next day, the first bombs fall on Warsaw, decimating their beloved city and shattering the world of their youth.

When Antonina's beloved Marek is forced behind ghetto walls along with the rest of Warsaw's Jewish population, Antonina turns her worry into action and becomes a key figure in a daring network of women risking their lives to shelter Jewish children. Helena finds herself drawn into the ranks of Poland's secret army, joining the fight to free her homeland from occupation. But the secrets both are forced to keep threaten to tear the sisters apart--and the cost of resistance proves greater than either ever imagined.

Shining a light on the oft-forgotten history of Poland during WWII and inspired by true stories of ordinary individuals who fought to preserve freedom and humanity in the darkest of times, The Warsaw Sisters is a richly rendered portrait of courage, sacrifice, and the resilience of our deepest ties.

Don't forget that you can get The Warsaw Sisters from BakerBookHouse.com for 30% off with free shipping.

You can learn more about Amanda Barratt on her WEBSITE. Follow her on BookBub and GoodReads.

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What do you do when a local theater is in danger of falling into disrepair?  Put it in a book. Add some ghosts (okay, so they were already in local lore), split time a bit, and The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater is born as only Jaime Jo Wright can birth a book.  And right there, folks... I think I'll leave the metaphor before it becomes more tortured than it already is!  Meanwhile, listen in as we chat about some missing boys, a missing friend, and the ant-farm-loving side-Kit who is determined to save the day!

Note: apologies for the audio quality on my track. No idea what happened there!

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What Terrible Things Happen When Old Ghosts Meet Modern Skeptics?

Talking with Jaime Jo Wright is always a joy. She has this unique and enviable ability to zero in on truth and hold fast to it while also retaining her love for people and compassion for those who don't know and love Jesus.  That (unfortunately) is a rare gift these days.

Jaime Jo shared some insights into her latest release, The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater, including the lack of Peter Pan influence. (Thank you, Jaime!!!)

But with an opening scene that has a baby falling over a balcony and then the police not finding any baby or her mother, well... things aren't looking good.  Actually, now that I think about it, there are three distinct "missing people" scenes in this book mentioned in this podcast alone. No wait! Four!  Her next book... something about Predicament Avenue (on preorder HERE) has a crime with no body. So there's that!  HA!

We also chatted about her panel at a conference this summer and how she answered a question about why she writes horror.  For her, it's about hope!  Finally, she gave us a few books she's reading, including one she discusses with the author on her podcast HERE.

The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater by Jaime Jo Wright

It promises beauty but steals life instead. Will the ghosts of Barlowe Theater entomb them all?

Barlowe Theater stole the life of Greta Mercy's eldest brother during its construction. Now in 1915, the completed theater appears every bit as deadly. When Greta's younger brother goes missing after breaking into the building, Greta engages the assistance of a local police officer to help her unveil the already ghostly secrets of the theater. But when help comes from an unlikely source, Greta decides that to save her family she must uncover the evil that haunts the theater and put its threat to rest.

Decades later, Kit Boyd's best friend vanishes during a ghost walk at the Barlowe Theater, and old stories of mysterious disappearances and ghoulish happenings are revived. Then television ghost-hunting host and skeptic Evan Fisher joins Kit in the quest to identify the truth behind the theater's history. Kit reluctantly agrees to work with him in hopes of finding her missing friend. As the theater's curse unravels Kit's life, she is determined to put an end to the evil that has marked the theater and their hometown for the last century.

The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater is still 30% off at BakerBookHouse.com

You can find out more about Jaime on her website and follow her at BookBub and GoodReads.

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When I saw the title of today's author's interview, I knew I'd love it. Who wouldn't love a book called On Moonberry Lake?  I mean, come on?  Listen in while Holly Varni chat about the book, the characters, what we'll see in the series and her series podcast!!!

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Why This Author Sold Me on a Whole Series in One Fun Interview

Holly Varni and I chatted for quite a while before we even started recording, and then we just kept chatting like old friends all through the interview. Holly has a warm, engaging personality that I suspect will shine through in her writing.  Before I'd finished talking to her I'd:

1. ordered the book
2. begged for the next one
3. queued up her podcast for more Moonberry Lake goodness.

That's right. Holly has not only kicked off a nice, LONG (we hope) series with a wonderful cast of characters, she also has a podcast with snippets from Moonberry Lake's newspaper so you can keep up on all the gossip from one octogenarian's totally biased perspective.

Learn how Holly started writing this, the author who vets her episode topics, the fun confirmation the Lord gave her by timing the contract offer just perfectly and more!

On Moonberry Lake by Holly Varni

Cora Matthews's life is a mess. A broken engagement and the unexpected death of her mother have left her wondering if things will ever return to normal. Whatever "normal" is.

It certainly isn't what she finds at Moonberry Lake. After she receives her family's dilapidated lakefront lodge as an inheritance--with a surprising condition attached--Cora finds her life overrun by a parade of eccentric neighbors who all have something to say and something to teach her.

As Cora works to put her life back together, she must decide if she is willing to let go of the past, open her heart to love, and embrace the craziest version of family and home she could ever have imagined.

Learn more about Holly Varni on her WEBSITE (where you can find her podcast) and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

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I've been told for a couple of years now that I'd love Katie Powner's books, so I've bought a couple, but now it's time to read it, and I think her most recent release, The Wind Blows in Sleeping Grass might just be the perfect choice for me. Listen in and see why!

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What Do a Pig, a Garbage Collector, and an Elderly Woman Have in Common?

I had a delightful chat with Katie Powner about writing, characters, her love of pigs, and even the Bible story about the demoniac of Gadarenes. Learning where she got the idea for a garbage-collecting prodigal and a pig named Pearl was only the highlight of the conversation. She also talked about her favorite kinds of books to read (she likes those that are still popular after the newness has worn off) and gave us recommendations for which of her books to start with based on the kind of book you're looking for.

The Wind Blows in Sleeping Grass by Katie Powner

For the first time in his life, Pete has everything to lose.

After years of drifting, fifty-year-old Pete Ryman has settled down with his potbellied pig, Pearl, in the small Montana town of Sleeping Grass--a place he never expected to see again. It's not the life he dreamed of, but there aren't many prospects for a high-school dropout like him.

Elderly widow Wilma Jacobsen carries a burden of guilt over her part in events that led to Pete leaving Sleeping Grass decades ago. Now that he's back, she's been praying for the chance to make things right, but she never expected God's answer to leave her flat on her face--literally--and up to her ears in meddling.

When the younger sister Pete was separated from as a child shows up in Sleeping Grass with her eleven-year-old son, Pete is forced to face a past he buried long ago, and Wilma discovers her long-awaited chance at redemption may come at a higher cost than she's willing to pay.

Learn more about Katie Powner on her WEBSITE and follow her on BookBub and GoodReads.

The Wind Blows in Sleeping Grass is also available at 30% off with FREE shipping at BakerBookHouse.com

Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at:

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There's nothing like chatting with an author who immerses herself in her writing in a way you totally get.  Jaimie Engle isn't just a fabulous romance writer, she's also a screenwriter who has a movie that follows the same storyline as the book we're chatting about today.  Listen in as we learn all about how she got started in screenwriting and... how it changed the writing process for her!

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This Book Isn't Just a Great Romance. It's Also a Heartwarming Movie!

I always wondered if screenwriting would be a great way to write a really detailed outline for a book, and the verdict is in. According to Jaimie Engle, the answer is a resounding yes.

But for me, the most exciting story was how she was just talking to a guy about movies, heard what they were looking for, said she'd have something to him, and boom!  Off she went to learn how to do it and get that sucker sold!  Way to go, Jaimie!

Not only that, but she also went the extra mile in publishing her novel. All the bonus and other stuff you can find on her WEBSITE (with the special QR code at the end of the book) are so much fun! Like she has a SONG from the book? WHAT???

Just Jake by Jaimie Engle

Amber Gibson, Entrepreneur

Life is perfect. Amber runs Pops Place, a popular downtown Colorado Springs diner and a staple her parents passed down upon retirement. She also teaches music to underprivileged kids at The Music Center, where they put on a concert during Octoberfest at the Mining Museum each year. Amber’s happy with life just the way it is. Until her ex-boyfriend Jake comes back on the scene.

Jake Collins, Superstar.

Life is perfect. Jake’s a country music sensation discovered on TikTok by manager Marvin Banks. With fawning fans, cash in his pockets, and traveling on tour, Jake’s got it all. Except for the passion to write his next hit. He’s not feeling it anymore and can’t figure out what’s missing. Jake’s sent back home, where he runs into high school sweetheart, Amber Gibson.

Like most second-chance romances, the prospects don’t look promising for Amber and Jake’s reunion tour. But then, he connects with her newest student, Joaquin, a boy with Jake’s same musical talents and abusive father. As Jake’s falling in love with her students, Amber’s falling back in love with him.

He never stopped loving her…but his proposal may not be the one she’s expecting.

You can also watch Just Jake on Up!

Follow Jaimie Engle on GoodReads and BookBub.

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Some days you start an interview and know from the first hello that you've made a new friend. Chatting with Rebekah (not Rachel) Millet about her debut novel, Julia Monroe Begins Again, was just one of those wonderful days.  When you mix a fun woman, hair dye, and a crazy podcaster, things get... interesting. Listen in to see how.

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Is There Anything More Delightful Than a Second-Chance Romance?

When I asked Rebekah what made this book the one that ended up published first, we got to talking about contests, conventions, conversations, and... sorry. Alliteration dies here. One sheets!  I loved the story of Julia Monroe Begins Again's journey to publication. It sounded so fun and familiar.

But I think what I loved most was how she really felt like the Lord said, "Write this one," and "this one" was a forty-something widow's second-chance romance.  Those don't come along every day, but Rebekah Millet not only wrote one, but He made it her debut!

Julia Monroe Begins Again by Rebekah Millet

Samuel was back. It seemed unfair to be blindsided. And in church no less. Shouldn't there be a commandment about that? Thou shalt not step foot inside thy ex's place of worship.

Julia Monroe has just turned forty and has high hopes for a fresh start after the last decade of her life abruptly left her a young widow and a single mom. With both her boys off to college, she can finally focus on expanding her New Orleans-based cleaning business. Julia is ready for new beginnings--but God has other plans. Samuel Reed, the ruggedly handsome Green Beret who shattered her heart over twenty years ago, has returned to town and is the kind of distraction she never saw coming.

After their first interaction in years leaves her mind spinning and her emotions out of control, Julia knows she needs to avoid him if she wants any chance of preventing history from repeating itself, but her meddling best friend keeps throwing them together. And now it seems inevitable that the man who was hard to forget might just be impossible to resist.

Learn more about Rebekah Millet on her WEBSITE. 

Follow Rebekah on GoodReads and BookBub

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If you're ready for the next book in the Missing in Alaska series by Elizabeth Goddard, never fear! Shadows at Dusk releases on October 17, 2023, and Elizabeth came to chat about this book and what to expect from it.  Listen in while we learn about bush pilots and life in southeastern Alaska!

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Would You Only Help Someone if They Promised to Help You, Too?

If you're anxious to travel, perhaps trekking all over Alaska in a bush plane is exactly what you need. Go searching for a missing sister, and find a friend's killer, all while seeing the majestic Alaskan countryside. I don't know about you, but I'm ready to head out right now!  WOOT! You'll find all this and more in Shadows at Dusk.

Shadows at Dusk by Elizabeth Goddard

Montana Detective Trevor West is desperate to learn what happened to his sister, who went missing in Alaska over a year ago, leaving nothing but a few photographs as clues to her whereabouts. At the advice of Police Chief Autumn Long, Trevor enlists the help of an experienced bush pilot. If Carrie James can't help him find the places in the photographs, no one can.

But Carrie has her own agenda. Grieving the death of her closest friend and the only person she could trust, Carrie will help Trevor find his sister on one condition--that he help her track down her friend's killer.

As the two close in on the answers they crave, they'll face dangers and connections they could not have imagined. They'll have to learn to trust one another--and face the dark secrets of the past--if they are ever to discover the truth and bring a killer to justice.

Learn more about Elizabeth Goddard on her WEBSITE or at Missing in Alaska Series.

Follow her on BookBub and GoodReads.

And don't forget the book is 40% off at BakerBookHouse.com.

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Nothing says fairy tale like a sweet western romance by an author like Karen Witemeyer... unless it's a fairytale retelling set in Texas in the late 19th century, right?  Fairest of Heart takes the familiar "Snow White" and turns it on its head with retired cowboys, a self-absorbed actress, a Texas Ranger, and a sweet girl who knows the true Source of her beauty.  Listen in to see all the genius Easter eggs Witemeyer planted in this book.

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Sometimes All a Girl Needs Is a True Change of Heart

I fell in love with the cover of Karen Witemeyer's Head Over Heels a few years back (only to learn it's much older than that, even), and meant to read that book.  I didn't.  #BecauseIdiot. Well, that'll be rectified just as soon as I'm done listening to her first book in a trilogy of fairytale retellings. I loaded it up on my Audible app tonight and wheeeeeeee. Here I go! So much for no new books until October. HA! 

Karen talks about her heart for young women today and how they're taught by every bit of media blasting at them that they need to use their bodies to get what they need or want when the Lord has a better plan. And I can't guarantee it, but I strongly suspect she does it without preaching. SQUEE!

Fairest of Heart by Karen Witemeyer

Once upon a time in Texas . . .

Beauty has been nothing but a curse to Penelope Snow. When she becomes a personal maid for a famous actress whose troupe is leaving Chicago to tour the West, she hides her figure beneath shapeless dresses and keeps her head down. But she still manages to attract the wrong attention, leaving her prospects in tatters--and her jealous mistress plotting her demise.

After his brother lost his life over a woman, Texas Ranger Titus Kingsley has learned to expect the worst from women and is rarely disappointed. So when a young lady found in suspicious circumstances takes up residence with the seven old drovers living at his grandfather's ranch, Titus is determined to keep a close eye on her.

With a promotion hanging in the balance, Titus is assigned to investigate a robbery case tied to Penelope's acting troupe, and all evidence points to Penelope's guilt. But Titus might just be convinced that the fairest woman of all has a heart as pure as her last name . . . if only he can prove it.

You can learn more about Karen Witemeyer and her books on her WEBSITE. Don't forget the book is 30% off on BakerBookHouse.com.  

Follow Karen on BookBub and GoodReads.

And don't forget her Posse Group on Facebook.

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She'erah's Legacy, by Naomi Craig the newest novel in the Yahweh's Legacy series, releases on Tuesday, and boy does it promise to pack a punch!  Nestled in a long line of "begats" is a tasty little morsel about a woman building three cities.  A woman. In the days of the patriarchs. It kind of makes you reconsider what the patriarchy really looked like back then.  Listen in to see what Naomi Craig did with this fascinating person from Old Testament history. (Hint: she wasn't mentioned in my Old Testament Survey class in high school Just sayin'!)

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Why You Should Never Say Biblical Women Didn't Make a Mark on History

Well, there are lots of reasons, but two still-standing cities built by a barely mentioned woman in the middle of a long, genealogical list is um... remarkable.  I have this crazy desire to say, "She is She'erah. See her build!"  (But maybe that's because "She'erah the Builder" isn't as catchy as "Bob the Builder."  You know?)

Naomi and I dove into why she chose this woman for her next book, the research she had to do, the lessons she learned from it and also the lessons her characters did as well.  And as always, she hopes that folks reading She'erah's Legacy will go to God's Word to ensure her research is sound and that they get what the Lord wants them to get from it all.

She'erah's Legacy by Naomi Craig

As tragedy ravages the camp, can She’erah step up and complete the outpost?

She’erah is a woman trying to leave her mark in a man’s world. Her vision and ability surpass her father’s, yet she remains second-in-command as they are tasked to build Pharaoh’s outposts in Canaan. She knows she is worthy of the task, but her clan is skeptical.

The last place She’erah expects support is from her charioteer, but Lateef is the lone voice of encouragement. His integrity and steadfastness are a plumb line in She’erah’s life and she can no longer deny her growing feelings for him.

Acts of sabotage threaten the construction and the shaky foundation of She’erah’s pride. It’s up to She’erah to break generations of rivalry, distrust, and jealousy—if she can learn to rely on the strengths and abilities of those around her to help.

Will she learn to trust God and others before her life’s legacy comes crumbling down around her?

Don't forget to check out the Preorder Special on Naomi's WEBSITE (30% off and FREE shipping) and sign up for her newsletter so you get first news on Thomas's sister!!

Find Naomi also on BookBub and GoodReads.

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There are so many different sects and subsects of the Amish, and that alone can really open up a world of ideas for Amish Fiction authors like debut author, Elly Gilbert. But even within individual Amish communities, people are so very different. How a person's parents interacted with the family, the freedoms allowed or forbidden, the choices of those closest to you--it can all affect how you perceive your life, what you think God wants from you, and what you do when you discover that He might have a different plan after all!  Elly Gilbert's Under the Blue Skies explores some of these things and more!  Listen in to what light-up shoes have to do with Amish men!

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What Do You Do When You're Offered the Chance at a Dream Come True?

Well, Elly Gilbert tells us! She talks about how she'd decided that her bookish pursuit would be to read as many books as she could and review to help authors. Then God offered a different opportunity, and she had to accept the fact that sometimes we don't know what He has planned for us, even when it seems like we're "too old" to do what we might have wanted.

Psst... that's exactly what her characters discovered!  Makes me wonder if her own journey influenced the writing of theirs!

Part of Sunrise Publishing's and Trisha Goyer's Big Sky Amish series, Under the Blue Sky is set in Trisha's Montana Amish world. With each author approaching the books from a slightly different standpoint, you get both edgier stories and traditional Amish romance in one great series.

Stay tuned, Elly has both another book in this series AND... an idea for a small-town, Southern Rom-Com.  Come on!  I want it all. Does that surprise anyone?  Yeah, didn't think so.

Under the Blue Skies by Elly Gilbert

Finding Home. Finding Faith.

A matchmaker for an instant father. Secrets. And friends who just might find a happy ending if his past doesn't destroy everything.

He just wants a fresh start…

Thomas Smucker moved to West Kootenai to escape his past. But when tragedy happens, he suddenly inherits a five-year-old niece…now what?

She’s always wanted a family...

Scarred by a childhood accident, Lovina Graber believes she’ll be single forever, despite her deep longing for a husband and family. And then she meets Thomas, an instant father, who needs a wife.

Lovina to the rescue...she'll find him the perfect Amish woman. Even if she has to ignore the spark between them…

But her secrets could cost him everything.

Thomas wants a wife...but he can't ignore his feelings for Lovina. But when her secret comes out, he'll have to choose between his niece and the woman he suddenly can't live without.

Instant father. Matchmaker. A found family…and unexpected love. But will her secrets--and his past-- destroy everything?

A heartwarming book three in the Big Sky Amish Collection.

Big Sky Amish Collection
Beyond the Gray Mountains
On the Golden Cliffs
Under the Blue Skies (coming soon)

Big Sky Series by Tricia Goyer
Beside Still Waters
Along the Wooded Paths
Beyond Hope's Valley

Learn more about Elly Gilbert on her WEBSITE.

Follow her on BookBub and GoodReads.

Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at:

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