Book Reviews: H-Titles

Both a thriller and a Jewish woman's memoir, Hadassah takes readers to ancient Persia (now known as Iran), into the inner sanctum of the palace and back out into the war zones of battle and political intrigue. This gripping drama of a simple peasant girl chosen over many more qualified candidates to become Esther, Queen of Persia, captures the imagination and fires the emotions of men and women alike. (Biblical/Fiction)

Ahab is dead, the victim of his own pride. His widow, Hannah, and their son must make a new life outside of the familiar whaling community of Nantucket. Planning a trip to Europe, they first visit friends in Boston. There, Hannah meets the kind and warm Captain Lazarus, and the dashing Captain Longwood. But Hannah also has another encounter that shakes the very foundation of all she believes—slavery. Before she can proceed to Europe, or even consider remarrying, Hannah must face her own convictions. Does God have a path laid for Hannah’s life that goes beyond her own plans and desires? What will she learn about God’s forgiveness, and her own past as part of Ahab’s legacy? (Inspirational/Historical

Mona's dream is about to come true: she has bought an old Victorian house to transform into the Footstep of Heaven Bookstore and Coffee Shop in the lovely lakeside town of Deep Haven. With the help of her best friend, Liza, and the ruggedly mysterious handyman, Joe Michaels, Mona is ready to make a perfect life for herself. But when disaster threatens her dream, Mona turns to her handyman for more than just household solutions. As Mona and Joe reach out to each other and to God, they find that some fairy tales have surprise endings. (Inspirational/Contemporary/Romance)

Someone was lurking in the woods behind the isolated old cabins Janna McAllister was fi xing up. Who was he? And what could he want with a single mother who hadn't set foot in Wyoming in years? Janna was suddenly grateful for her unexpected new lodgers: deputy sheriff Michael Robertson and his teenaged son. The strong, silent type, Michael made her feel safe—especially when human remains were found on the property. The cold case threatened to remain unsolved. Until Janna unwittingly found a clue that would tempt a killer to come out of the woodwork. (Inspirational/Romantic Suspense)

"The life of a woman today isn't really all that different from that of Mary and Martha in the New Testament", says Joanna Weaver. Like Mary, they love Jesus and long to sit at his feet...but the daily demands of a busy world just won't leave them alone. And like Martha, they love Jesus and really want to serve him...but they also struggle with weariness, resentment, and feelings of inadequacy. Then comes Jesus, right into the midst of a busy Mary/Martha life—and he extends the same invitation he issued long ago to the two sisters of Bethany. Tenderly he invites women to choose "the better part"—a joyful life of living-room intimacy with him that flows naturally into "kitchen service" for him. How can women make that choice? That's the whole point of the unique and insightful new book by Joanna Weaver, Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World. Its fresh approach to the familiar Bible stories and its creative, practical strategies are designed to show how all of us -- Marys and Marthas alike -- can draw closer to our Lord, deepening our devotion, strengthening our service, and doing both with less stress and greater joy. (Inspirational/Christian Living)

On her way to completing a degree in forensic science, Gabby St. Claire drops out of school and starts her own crime scene cleaning business. “Yeah, that’s me,” she says, “a crime scene cleaner. People waiting in line behind me who strike up conversations always regret it.” When a routine cleaning job leads her to find a murder weapon the police overlooked, she realizes that the wrong person is in jail. But the owner of the weapon is a powerful foe . . . and willing to do anything to keep Gabby quiet. With the help of her new neighbor, Riley Thomas, a man whose life and faith fascinate her, Gabby plays the detective to make sure the right person is put behind bars. Can Riley help her before another murder occurs? (Inspirational/Suspense)

One of gospel music's most beloved author/lyricists reveals the inspiration behind her best-loved Gaither Christmas songs and shares cherished family holiday traditions.

Powerful imagery creates a 'you are there' immersion in the story of the post-Flood world. Kacy Barnett-Gramckow fans raved about her extraordinary job of moving the Flood off the Sunday School flannelgraph board and into life in the Heavens Before. Now, she continues to flesh out the Bible's brief account of the rise of Nimrod and the Babel rebellion with scintillating characters and a wealth of imaginative detail. (Biblical/Fiction

Though he'd found his life's calling ministering to London's underclass, Dr. Ian Russell hadn't yet found his life's mate. Then the former army surgeon encountered the enchanting stage actress Eleanor Neville. Ian's good works and strong faith set him apart from other men Eleanor knew. But despite his fascination with her glittering world, Eleanor feared her notorious past would end their future together before it had even begun. Could true love and faith overcome all obstacles and make their lonely hearts as one? (Inspirational/Historical/Romance)

The moment GloryAnn Cranbrook met her new patient at the children's clinic, she broke a rule by getting attached. But at least she felt something, unlike her handsome boss, Dr. Jared Steele. The man who'd once cared enough to open the clinic now refused to perform the technique he'd become famous for. The technique that could save the boy's life. Why? And could GloryAnn—and the child who needed them both—change his stubborn mind? Inspirational/Contemporary/Romance)

Eight years ago, Jillian Rodgers left Sam Lawson at the altar with no explanations or goodbyes. Now Jillian is back in town to care for her sick mother. Can she and Sam start over?

Young Noah has found life good and wholesome...until he steps outside his village and discovers a world of temptation. Drawn by a beautiful woman yet repulsed by the pagan practices of her tribe's dark worship, his inner struggle keeps him in torment. Noah strains to hear the voice of God—through the warnings of a prophet, through the kind teachings of his grandfather Methuselah, through the loving concern of his family, and ultimately through personal confrontation. The message he receives is terrifying. Will he find the courage to obey? (Biblical/Fiction)

For teachers in need of refreshment and all who owe a debt of gratitude to their teachers, this collection of inspiring stories brings long overdue honor to the unsung heroes who teach, coach, and mentor. Each narrative will remind you of why you’re in the classroom while energizing you for a new day. As you read these true stories from a variety of authors, including Barbara Johnson, Elmer Towns, Bob Benson, Cecil Murphey, Tracie Peterson, Penelope Stokes and many more, be prepared for touching moments and gentle reminders that God will carry you, as He is the constant source of strength. (Inspirational/Nonfiction)

Emma Garrett serves her boarders at Hill House with homespun wisdom and absolute faith in God. When tragedy strikes close to home is Emma wise enough to save Hill House?

Determined to single-handedly help all people in trouble, a young paramedic and a bruised doctor learn that trusting in God and working together will allow them to achieve more than they ever could alone.

Trusting in the Most High, young Annah, who's been mistreated by her own family, marries Shem. She then joins her strange new family in their solitary faith that will ultimately separate them from an ancient world--a world fast approaching the catastrophe of the Great Flood. (Inspirational/Biblical/Fiction)

Can Betsy reclaim her confidence while reconciling her clerical robe with high heels and the right shade of lipstick? This is a fun-loving look at a single girl's life on the other side of the altar. (Inspirational/Humor)

Jason Boyer Just Got an Inheritance to Die For. The fortune wasn't supposed to befall him. Jason Boyer had known all along his father's business empire would pass to different hands. Which suited him just fine. The money was crooked and the power corrupt. But when an accident claims the old man's life, everyone is stunned by the unveiling of the will. With the passing of the Boyer crown, power-hungry politicians and shady business partners all try to force Boyer's hand. Fighting the temptation of influence and riches, he simply wants to be a better man than his father—but attempting to stand for what’s right soon brings murderous consequences. As those closest to him are endangered—and news emerges that his father’s accident may be something more sinister—Boyer finds himself fighting for his soul…and his life! (Inspirational/Suspense)

Did you ever wish your child came with an instruction booklet? Have you had to “eat your words” as you’ve transitioned from pre-parent to the parenting role? New Moms, you’re not alone! Experience is a wonderful teacher. Help! I’m a New Mother, is filled with advice and hints from the author herself as well as other mothers from all walks of life including Liz Curtis Higgs, Kathy C. Miller, Ranee McCollum, Carolyn Pizzuti, Gayle Roper, Linda E. Shepherd, Francine Rivers and many more. From feedings and schedules to color and wardrobe hints, Scheidies covers the gamut of new-mom wonders, offering comfort, encouragement, and practical, creative applications with a time-tested “been-there-done-that” approach. (Inspirational/Nonfiction/Parenting)

While investigating an old kidnapping case, private investigator Logan Malloy works undercover and soon realizes that his colleague, Becky Tate, is the victim he's searching for. (Inspirational/Romantic/Suspense)

Penniless widow Laura McKay was determined to succeed on her own, but when an arsonist threatened her deaf daughter's safety, she was compelled to rely on firefighter Ryan Flanagan, the high school football hero who'd never noticed her as a shy underclassman. Physically fearless and an expert at avoiding romantic commitment, Ryan had nearly become his own worst enemy. But in the flames there's only one enemy: time, which just might be running out for Laura, unless Ryan's courage...and love...can withstand the test of fire. (Inspirational/Contemporary/Romance)

Devastated by her sister's death, E.R. doctor Cheyenne Allison retreats to an isolated farm in Hideaway, Missouri. But a dangerous vandal terrorizes the town, and Cheyenne becomes his latest target. Will Hideaway prove her sanctuary, or her undoing? (Inspirational/Romantic/ Mystery/Suspense)

Dr. Susan Rose tumbles into a crevasse when her horse balks and discovers a young man chained in the darkness. As she tries to learn the cause of his amnesia, dark possibilities emerge–could he be a fallen demon, " bound with everlasting chains for judgment" ? (Inspirational/Suspense)

Suspense, mystery, and danger pervade the four stories of this romance collection. As love blossoms for four women, threatening situations also arise. Laurel's resolve is tested when a cyber stalker begins sending menacing E-mails. Gerri goes undercover as a housekeeper in an attempt to vindicate her wrongfully accused grandfather. Shelby travels to her vacant childhood home in Louisiana to find the key to recurring migraines. Stephanie works to restore an old church only to be warned by mysterious lights to leave things as they are. Should they proceed with their dangerous tasks? Can they trust their hearts to guide them? (Inspirational/Contemporary/Romance)

Kylie has always been the proverbial " good girl," and she's all set for the happily-ever-after with Matthew in their small rural Wisconsin town. But then a faded photograph arrives, and all the peace and security Kylie has ever known fly out the window. A soul-shaking quest to learn the truth about her mother's past leads Kylie to discover God's grace-along with grandparents she didn't know existed. The stunning discoveries also force Kylie to make some hard decisions. In learning who her mother was, she must now determine who she is herself-and where, or if, Matt fits into that picture. (Inspirational/Contemporary/Romance)

While reluctantly working at her familys Amish country inn, a young woman learns to conquer her fears and turn to God for the courage to survive. At the same time, she is able to accept help and love from a handsome mystery boarder. (Inspirational/Romantic/Suspense)

The New Kit Shannon legal thriller, set in 1906 Los Angeles. This time, Kit takes on the railroads--only to find a web of deceit that is greater than anything she's ever experienced!

Raised in the U.S. foster care system, Audrey MacMurray is driven to learn the truth of who she is and where she came from. Her search leads her to her ancestral home: the romantic Kennerith Castle in Scotland. Within its walls, she learns, are stories of women--her ancestors--who defied the conventions of the day, living with faith, courage, and passion. As a handsome genealogist helps Audrey discover these brave women in her family tree, will she find the pride and self-worth she longs for? Can Audrey live with the same faith, courage, and passion? These unique " novels within a novel" provide a rich, multi-generational story of God's love...a legacy of faith you'll long remember. (Inspirational/Historical/Romance)

With her mother newly settled in Paris, Liz Davis returns to Omaha to oversee the family business and estate. Her well-ordered world soon begins to unravel, however, when she finds troubling information stored on her deceased father's computer. (Inspirational/Romance)

Anna Jensen's love isn't enough. After all, with one former beau married and another dead, Anna knows there must be something wrong with her. August Nilsson is consumed with envy for his older brother. Gustaf has everything August has ever wanted - a wife, a child, and a home. And before it all, Gustaf had courted Anna - the same woman who captured August's heart upon his arrival in Minnesota. Will these two allow the Lord to speak truth into their hearts? Will August be able to overcome his feelings of inferiority to Gustaf? Will Anna ever see herself through August's eyes, instead of believing herself to be merely his brother's castoff? (Inspirational /Historical/Fiction)

Marywood provides a good, Christian education for girls but a greedy lawyer threatens the school's existence. To maintain its trust fund income, Marywood must field a softball team but a careless comment by their new coach commits the team to winning the league championship! Can twelve mismatched girls steadfast Bobbi, bubbly Cathy, rebellious Sugar, snobby Vanessa, brainy Lauri, fretful Victoria, and others become champions to save their school? This first installment of the Hits & Misses series follows traditional manga style with black-and-white artwork. It promises great fun for late elementary to tweenage girls and shows how important love, loyalty, and faith are to success in life. (Inspirational/Juvenile/Fiction)

When a star NFL quarterback and his ex-wife reconcile, they make some surprising discoveries about each other, their newfound faith, and how that faith impacts their life together. (

The " war to end all wars" is over, but the Cold War is just beginning. Cameron works as a foreign correspondent for her father’s newspaper while she continues to try to obtain a Soviet visa in order to join her husband, Alex, who is not allowed to leave Russia. Blair is in Washington D.C., where husband, Gary, works for the State Department. Jackie is in California, struggling to cope with widowhood and single motherhood. All three are experiencing private heartaches that severely test their faith when Cameron’s visa is suddenly approved. Blair and Jackie decide to join her in a clandestine search for their stepbrother. Danger and intrigue, courage and faith explode in a powerful conclusion in this Daughters of Fortune saga, book 4. (Inspirational/Historical/Women/Fiction)

Bran ap Brychan finds his world ripped from its foundation as invaders topple his father's kingdom and send the young prince fleeing into the forest. Readers will be spellbound with this entirely fresh take on this legendary figure. (Inspirational/Historical/Fiction)

When blizzards trap a young, pregnant woman and her children on a ranch in Montana, the twists and turns of life and nature teach her that the hope within--Jesus Christ--is the only hope that lasts. (Inspirational/Women/Fiction)

Born and raised in two vastly different worlds, pastor Hosea Stevens and former prostitute Angela Warren are nevertheless drawn to one another, teaching each other a strong life lesson about love and forgiveness. (Inspirational/Contemporary/Romance)

After Cocoa Tanner’s husband is murdered, she moves from Chicago to Grand Rapids, Michigan to be near her family. Determined to rely only on herself, and not on God, Cocoa is finally starting to make her dreams come true. The grand opening of her coffee shop, Common Ground, arrives and business is even better than expected. Now she’ll be able to provide for herself and her three-year-old daughter Brianna. A series of frightening events soon proves that someone is watching Cocoa’s every move. She must discover if it’s possible to trust God, even with her life. (Inspirational/Contemporary/Romance)

HOT FLASHES AND COLD CREAM

Laura V. Hilton 12/2005

Midlife isn't a crisis for Clair Hayden until the day a former classmate fails to recognize her. With an empty nest, a body heading south, and a marital spark that seems to be sputtering, she knows she has to do something. She learns that even while she's " wasting away" on the outside, with God's help she's being renewed inwardly day by day. (Inspirational/Mom-lit)

HOT FLASHES AND COLD CREAM

Laura V. Hilton 12/2005

When the going gets tough, the tough hit the beach. After years of being single, Lily's about to head down the aisle again. But just as she's about to take the plunge, she gets cold feet–ice cold. To calm her pre-wedding jitters, Lily and her girlfriends take off on a getaway to Siesta Key, Florida. Harkening back to younger days, they stalk Donny Osmond, get tattoos (henna!), and turn the heads of local studs. But not far from any of their minds are the challenges of midlife: grown children coming home to roost, husbands in midlife crisis mode, and–could it be?–a first-time pregnancy at forty-five. The " girls" all have their baggage in tow, but the salty air and laughing with friends is just what the doctor ordered–if they can weather the hot flashes until wedding bells ring!

This anthology features three uplifting, romantic novellas by three award-winning, bestselling African-American authors that revolve around love and life in small-town church choirs and the alumni of one choir in particular. (Inspirational/Romance)

While single women might think their biggest errors have to do with bad first dates, Hammond addresses the real top-ten mistakes single women make that impact their faith, relationship with God, security, happiness, and love lives. (Inspirational/Nonfiction/Christian Living)

Unique insights into dealing with the difficult personalities we all encounter at home or work. This updated, expanded edition of a classic provides fresh direction, encouragement, and skills for those in need of help with a difficult person. (Inspirational/Christian Living/Relationships

We all want to know how to make love work for us, yet satisfying love is elusive. We often get the same frustrating results in our relationships that we find when we don't read the instructions before installing a computer or using a new appliance. This is the must-read owner's manual for anyone looking for answers and lasting love! This complete guide to assembly, maintenance, accessories, tech support, and troubleshooting offers practical biblical principles, equipping you with tools for transforming your relationships and challenging you to try new approaches to old problems. So jump in! If you're willing to do the work, you'll find love working for you.

Set against the opulent and self-serving world of Versailles in the latter part of the seventeenth century, The Huguenot depicts the contrasts of wealth and poverty from a worldly standpoint as well as a spiritual one. Although the details of the story are fiction, it is based on factual information involving the first Crockett in the lineage of the famous frontiersman, Davy Crockett. (Inspirational/Historical/Romance)

Thanks to one little white lie, Chloe Caldwell's family believed she was dating her handsome boss, and they'd just invited Luke Hunter to a family celebration. Chloe intended to set the record straight. Until Luke handed her plane tickets for two...and it looked as if her prayers had been answered. But being back with her family and their homespun values made Chloe question what she wanted in life. Especially when se learned Luke's real reasons for coming. And it wasn't until she glimpsed the loving man this hard-edged executive could be that Chloe discerned God's plan. Could He now help her guide Luke back to his faith--and into her loving arms?

The most devastating hurricane in America's history--the Galveston hurricane of 1900--serves as the dramatic backdrop to this compelling story of a man's journey to freedom from his past. (Inspirational/Historical/Fiction)