INSPY Winners Announced

Congratulations to the following winners of the INSPY Awards, the Blogger's Award for Excellence in Faith Driven Literature.

Crossing Oceans by Gina Holmes, General & Literary Fiction

Evolving in Monkey Town by Rachel Held Evans, Creative Nonfiction

She Walks in Beauty by Siri Mitchell, Historical Fiction

The Knight by Steven James, Thriller/Suspense/Crime Fiction

Green by Ted Dekker, Speculative Fiction

Plain Paradise by Beth Wiseman, Amish Fiction

Sons of Thunder by Susan May Warren, Romance/Romantic Suspense

Once Was Lost by Sara Zarr, Young Adult Fiction

The Best of 2010 - Books That Sing

Drum roll please ...

It's time for the Pièce de résistance ...

... for those novels that leap above others in not only plot and character, but in conveying a deeper message using prose that has a distinct rhythm and melody. I love authors who use symbolism, both obvious and covert. I love flowing narrative descriptions that paint scenes so vivid you can imagine you're living inside the setting.

If you love to read beauty in fiction, then you'll love these stories. When I grow up, these are the kind of books I want to write.

Resurrection in May by Lisa Samson - a spirited college graduate takes a mission trip to Rwanda where she learns to serve others ... until she witnesses the genocide of the people she grew to love. She returns back to Kentucky, her innocence gone, but a sweet elderly farmer takes her under his wings and tries to resurrect her faith. Lisa Samson is well known in Christian circles for providing a unique vision of life and faith and she always makes the reader think beyond their own little world. If you want to be challenged, pick up a Lisa Samson novel.

A Season of Miracles by Rusty Whitener - A little league team asks an autistic phenom to join their team and so begins their season of miracles. I fell in love with this book from the first line and that love never relinquished. Rusty Whitener realistically captures the essence of a group of preteens. One minute I was laughing, and the next I wanted to cry. If you want to read a book that speaks to the heart, read A Season of Miracles.

The Miracle of Mercy Land by River Jordan - A strange book mysteriously appears in a newspaper office, a book that gifts the reader with insights into townspeople's lives, past, present, and future. Reading this book was like reading a work of art. River Jordan has a poetic way with words as she weaves a plot line that digs into our hearts and teaches each of us a little something of ourselves.

Courting Morrow Little by Laura Frantz - Morrow Little's life is torn apart when a Shawnee raid kills her mother and baby sister, and her brother is presumably kidnapped by the Shawnee. Years later, as a young woman of marrying age, Morrow's father wishes her to marry a young man from the nearby settlement, but Morrow only has eyes for the Shawnee warrior. Is she betraying her family by falling for him? Laura Frantz's stories are more like journeys that whisk the reader along a meandering path. I love that her stories are unpredictable and non-formulaic. She's an artist with the pen, composing symphonic prose that carries the story along, while painting scenes in vivid color.

Rugged Reads

As I glance through the listing of all the books I've read this past year, I notice half of my favorites are written by men. Now considering that women comprise the majority of Christian fiction writers, I find that interesting.

I love mystery/suspense/thriller type of books that have a million loose threads to weave together. It's nice to have a little romance thrown in, but in edge-of-the-seat reading, I don't want romance to be the major storyline. In my opinion, male writers are better at this than women.

I also enjoy a story with a sports background as games can be a telling metaphor for life. Again, I usually prefer the male voice when it comes to sports stories.

My husband and I even enjoy many of the same books, so it's with his help that I put this list together (in no particular order) for those searching for a gift for that special man in their life.

A Season of Miracles by Rusty Whitener - A team of little leaguers learn life lessons when they ask an autistic phenom to join their team. This is a must-read for everyone. Fathers. Sons. Even mothers and daughters. It's beautifully written. One moment you're laughing and the next you're crying. This may be my favorite read this year.

Tomorrow We Die by Shawn Grady - After attempting to save a man's life, a paramedic wishes to honor the dying man's wish and is thrown into a mystery that may just cost him his own life. This is Shawn Grady's (a real life firefighter and EMT) second novel and I was thrilled to see his writing growth from book one to book two. It's a fast-paced story with intriguing characters.

Back on Murder by J. Mark Bertrand - When an evangelist's daughter turns up missing, a burned out homicide detective follows his gut and searches for her where no one else can imagine and he won't back down no matter the cost. This is Bertrand's solo debut novel (he co-authored Beguiled with Deeanne Gist) and it's a phenomenal debut. If you like Micheal Connelly's Harry Bosch stories, be sure to give Back on Murder a try.

Blaze of Glory by Major Jeff Struecker and Alton Gansky - A string of female suicide bombers sends a special ops team overseas to stop the bombings and to thwart possible heads-of-state assassinations. In this sequel to Certain Jeopardy, Struecker (of Black Hawk Down fame) and Gansky capture the reader with non-stop action.

The Bishop by Steven James - In book #4 of the Patrick Bowers series (see The Pawn review on this blog), James once again keeps readers guessing as an FBI Special Agent tracks the murderer of a congressman's daughter. If you love jolts of adrenaline, then you'll have to read this series by Steven James. James stories are always complex and he excels in misdirection. In my opinion, James is by far the best writer of thrillers in Christian fiction, if not all fiction.

Hero's Tribute by Graham Garrison - Dying from cancer, a hometown hero (for his high school football excellence and decorated military service) asks a reporter, whom he's never met, to deliver the eulogy at his funeral. As the reporter digs into the hero's life he discovers secrets that may greatly alter the town's opinion. In a time when we herald sports figures and Hollywood celebrities as heroes, Garrison, in his debut novel, helps us discover the true definition of Hero.

Danger Close by Lt. William G. Boykin and Tom Morrisey - A highly decorated Army special forces veteran is asked to go undercover in Afghanistan to stop a potential mass terrorism plot in the United States. But in order to save the country, he is asked to leave behind family and friends and all he knows. Forever. Readers of Vince Flynn should enjoy this peek into the world of secret ops that gives the reader a glimpse of the lives of unheralded men and women who sacrifice all for their country.

Enemies Among Us by Bob Hamer - A cowboy FBI undercover agent is given the assignment of tracking a terrorist cell in Los Angeles. This is an adrenaline laced, detailed, and intricate novel, written by a veteran FBI Agent. Hamer also shows the delicate balance between work and marriage. Hamer's solid debut novel should appeal to both Christian and general market fiction readers.

Blackout by Jason Elam and Steve Yohn - In this third book of the Riley Covington series, football star and special ops veteran Riley Covington races to detonate electromagnetic pulse bombs that could render the United States without power. They're too late to stop the first. Will they be on time for the second? Fans of football and military action will enjoy this novel.

Not Only For Teens

Teens may be the most difficult group of readers to find books for. As a parent, we want to encourage them to read, but when we see what's out there in the general market and in Christian fiction, it can be very discouraging.

I have three teens right now and they all complain about lack of choice, especially in Christian fiction. My daughter's a lot like me in that she doesn't want the "fairy tale" story. She wants gritty realism but doesn't care for the books available in the general market as they're too explicit. She loves Melody Carlson books and she enjoyed Bill Myers' Forbidden Doors series. My oldest son has discovered Frank Peretti and Ted Dekker. I can't get my youngest son past his Star Trek and Star Wars books yet, but at least he's reading.

So, if you're looking for a good books for teens to read, you may have to search a bit. I went to the experts, my kids, and got a few suggestions.

Nightmare by Robin Parrish - This novel isn't aimed at teens but when a book begins in an amusement park funhouse, you'll immediately catch the teen's interest. To quote my sixteen year old son, "Nightmare is a psychological thrill ride with mystery and suspense hidden behind every page." I think that says it best.

Dark Star by Creston Mapes - Imagine the world of Mick Jagger or Steven Tyler and you've got the protagonist in Dark Star: Confessions of a Rock Idol and Full Tilt. The music scene is a huge draw for teens which makes Mapes books instantly intriguing. My daughter had this to say about Dark Star: "It has to be one of my favorite books I've ever read. I'm really into music, so the fact that Everett Lester is a rock star is really interesting to me. This book shows what can happen when you're on drugs, when you mess with a psychic, and what you feel like living your life without God. I would recommend this book to anyone over the age of 13. It's amazing." And my daughter has passed this book around to all of her friends.

Jerk, California by Jonathan Friesen - Sam Carrier has Tourette's Syndrome and all his life  he's been subjected to name calling and bullying. He'd give anything to just be still, then maybe the beautiful Naomi would finally notice him. If your teen is looking for a book that's more challenging, that encourages them to think deeper, whose prose has a poetic quality, then check out Jonathan Friesen. (Parents love his novels too.)

What books do your teens like to read? Or, what would they like to see  at your local Christian bookstore or in your church library? Parents want to know.

On a side note, if you're interested in hearing the true testimony of a rock star, check out this video of Alice Cooper.

Not Vegetarian Fare

I love books with meat, stories that dare to touch on taboo subjects in the Christian market or deal with those topics from a different angle. These novels aren't safe, feel good stories, but gritty, see-what-God-can-do-with-our-dirt type of story. Give me a book that shows God's redemption in broken, filthy lives, and you'll have me hooked.

The problem is finding those books in today's market, but I have read a few this  year that are worth the mention.

Exposed by Ashley Weis tackles a subject that has become a big problem in today's society: pornography. What would yo do if you discovered your spouse was hooked on pornography? Where is God when that happens? And being a Christian doesn't make someone immune to the lure. And what about the young women on the screen? Aren't they children of God too? Ashley Weis gently and poignantly addresses all aspects of pornography's snare in Exposed. No, it's not an easy read, but it's an important one.

Never Without Hope by Michelle Sutton. Christian fiction is replete with stories about women whose husbands commit adultery. Typically, those stories are one-sided and paint the husband as a no-good, cheating, dead-beat dad and the story is about a woman who rises above her victimhood. But, rarely is adultery shown as an issue caused by both spouses, and rarer yet does the story deal with the adulterous wife. In Never Without Hope, Michelle Sutton breaks all those stereotypes. The story is about a woman who commits adultery, but Sutton's careful to show both the wife's and the husband's side of the issue, and that's what gives this story teeth.

Priceless: A Novel on the Edge of the World by Tom Davis. Human trafficking is one of the most dire problems our society faces in today's world and it's growing rapidly. In Priceless, Tom Davis puts a face on those involved in trafficking: the girls enslaved in it and the warriors who fight to free those caught. It's obviously a difficult read and it's an eye-opener. But, Davis also shows God's glowing power of redemption among all the ugliness.

A Reader's Christmas List

So far this year I've completed 127 books. At that rate, I should read about 10 more by the end of the year. I've read thrillers, literary, historicals, biographies, even romance. (Sorry, no bonnet). So, if you're looking to give a good book this year, I have a few suggestions.

Each day this week I'll be offering Wish List Ideas in a few different categories. I'd love you to stop on by and offer your own suggestions.

To kick off the week, I'm giving Shameless Plugs to writer friends who are all very gifted. Ironically, three of the books are historical and one is romance. I don't typically read either genre, but my friends have gotten me to stretch my tastes and I thank them for that.

Making Waves - debut novel by Lorna Seilstad. A witty historical romance set in Lake Manawa, Iowa (by Council Bluffs.) It's a story about a spunky debutante who falls for a sailing instructor rather than the wealthy but boring suitor her parents chose for her. The story takes place at what used to be a water resort/amusement park for the wealthy. Lorna gave me a tour of current-day Lake Manawa. Nothing remains of the resort. I love that Lorna has brought this historical site back to life in this fun story.

White Roses and White Doves - debut series from Shannon Taylor-Vannatter. Like many readers, I have a pre-conceived notion about romance novels so I tend to avoid them. Give me gritty, thought-provoking works please. But Shannon dispelled those notions. Her characters are broken human beings living authentic lives. Her first series takes place in the city of Romance, Arkansas. Another great setting.

The Famous One by Nicole Petrino-Salter. Chronicles the life of a troubled young man propelled into super stardom, a man who earned everything, but still felt empty ... until he found the only thing, The One who could fill that hole. I love Nicole's raw characters and her genuine portrayal of people's lives. Like to read something emotionally honest? Then check out The Famous One.

Courting Morrow Little by Laura Frantz. Morrow Little doesn't think she can ever forgive the Shawnee for tearing apart her family, but then she is drawn to one of their warriors. Is she betraying her family by falling for this man? Laura Frantz deftly avoided the sophomore slump in this novel. I loved her first book The Frontiersman's Daughter as it was more than a simple historical novel. It was a literary journey. In Courting Morrow Little, Laura takes the reader on another sweeping journey with her trademark symphonic prose. I can't wait to get her next book, The Colonel's Lady.

The Girl in the Gatehouse by Julie Klassen. After a scandal, a young woman is banished to a life of seclusion in a distant relative's gatehouse and puts a crimp in a military captain's perfectly formed plans. The story takes place following the Napoleonic wars. I'll admit I haven't read this yet as it doesn't come out until tomorrow, but like Laura Frantz, Julie has a musical way with words and she tells a unique story. Barring a blizzard, I'll be in line to get my autographed copy.

Fairy Tale or Gritty Reality ... Part 2

This seems to be a common question recently as writers are torn between writing their passion and writing for the market.

It's a struggle I've faced as well. I love to read novels that show authentic, messy lives, about people who are hurting. God can do so much with broken people, His redemption message seems so much clearer.

In today's economy, the reader wants stories that whisk them away from today's hurts. For an author to have financial success, they almost have to write about brighter, happier topics. So, what does a writer do?

I've read a few blog posts recently that have addressed this and have given me much to think about.

In the November 18th post on the Novel Journey blog, Athol Dickson writes about Trouble in a Writer's World. As always, he offers excellent insights.

Literary agent Rachelle Gardner addresses authors being Torn in her November 17th post on her Rants & Ramblings blog.

As for my opinion? Well, after writing one novel with the market in mind, I've decided to Surrender and go back to writing my passion. While my first readers and critique partners have enjoyed my attempt at romance, the story feels flat to me.

Last week I wrote a new scene for a novel I'd completed about three years ago, a scene about a 17 year old Christian boy facing the siren's temptation of a girl eager to give herself away. As I wrote it, I was energized. I could literally feel the young man's conflict and I couldn't leave the computer until the scene was complete, some 3000 words later. Not once did I experience that while writing the romance. When we're passionate about what we're writing, we can't stop. More importantly, the reader can feel our passion.

I read that above-mentioned scene aloud to my 18 year old daughter and her boyfriend. She was incensed that my male character didn't once think about his girlfriend's personality. But, my daughter's boyfriend? He said it was spot on. That's how teenage boys often think. He wasn't proud of that fact, but he was being honest. Now, he wants to read more. Why? Because that scene was authentic and passionate. If we want to reach people, we have to be real with them and meet them on their level. That's what I intend to do.

So, what's your take? What do you think authors should write?

Fairy Tale or Gritty Reality ...

With the economy struggling as it is, the Christian reading market is longing for stories they can get lost in, books that offer escape from the struggles of life. They want the happily-ever-after fairy tales where the handsome hero marries his princess. So, what's an author to do when their passion lies in writing the gritty tales of life? When they want to write books that teach about life's injustices, stories that compel the reader to think?

In today's Novel Journey blog, When the World Wants Happy Endings, Mary DeMuth eloquently ponders this question.

What do you think as a reader? A writer? Should authors write to the market or their passion?

The Miracle of Mercy Land

by River Jordan

Waterbrook Press
352 pages

Like Reading a Work of Art

Mercy Land was “born in bolt of lightning on the banks of Bittersweet Creek.” So begins Mercy’s life. A down-to-earth, traveling preacher’s daughter in the 1930s, raised in an Alabama town that was barely a town. Mercy leaves home for the bright lights of Bay City and eventually lands a job at the newspaper with newspaper veteran, Doc Philips. For years she trains under the wing of the steadfast owner/editor.

Then the strange book appears at the newspaper office. Not just any book, but one that gifts the reader with insights into the lives, past and present, of Bay City residents, and may give the reader the ability to right the past’s wrongs. But is that a blessing or a curse?

Upon the mysterious arrival of the book, Doc decides to retire and he hires a stranger, John Quincy, a man with Hollywood looks, to take his place. A man Mercy is dangerously drawn to.

The lives of Mercy, Doc, and John weave together and apart until the purpose of the book is revealed, in the process exposing the reader as well.

Have you ever read a book that, when you reach the end, you hold that story in your hand and believe you’re holding a masterpiece? That’s how I felt when I completed The Miracle of Mercy Land. It’s an amazing work of art. I love River Jordan’s Southern prose. The story flows quickly with dancing eloquence, and your heart bleeds right along with the characters’. All throughout, Jordan gives readers peeks inside our own soul. In the end we discover maybe the story isn’t so much about Mercy Land, but ourselves.



Credit: Chris Blanz

 Meet River Jordan

River Jordan is a critically acclaimed novelist and playwright. Her fourth novel, The Miracle of Mercy Land, a southern mystical work set in 1938 features a protagonist full of moxie and a ‘backbone of worthy’ in this suspenseful story about love, mystery, and the choices we make. Jordan’s first non-fiction narrative, Praying for Strangers, An Adventure of the Human Spirit arrives from Penguin/Berkley in Hardcover April 5, 2011. She speaks around the country on the “Power of Story,” and produces and hosts the radio program, Clearstory on 107.1 FM from Nashville, TN where she makes her home.

http://www.riverjordan.us/

White Roses

debut novel by Shannon Taylor Vannatter
(White Rose Trilogy #1)

Heartsong Presents
174 pages

More Than Romance

Back cover:
Grayson can't seem to move on.

Pastor Grayson Sterling loves his wife. The problem is, Sara was killed by a hit-and-run driver two years ago. Grayson knows he needs to move on, that the continuing depth of his grief is not healthy for him or his young son. Desperate, he convinces his church to hire Mark Welch as associate pastor to relieve him of some of his load. When Adrea Welch arrives at his church with her brother, Grayson cannot deny his attraction to her.

For years, florist Adrea Welch has been artfully arranging white roses for Sara Sterling. Now those flowers are carried to the cemetery by a faithful, grieving husband. How can Adrea be so attracted to a man still devoted to his dead wife?

When secrets from Adrea's past collide with their budding relationship, both she and Grayson must learn to lean on God's abiding wisdom.

Review:

As a Literature major, I’ll be the first to admit that I tend to be snobbish in my literary tastes. While I love strong romantic elements in a story, I typically cringe at the thought of reading straight romance. Give me lyrical prose or action/adventure or messy contemporaries, but please no romance. I want more than that.

Well, God has a way of opening my eyes.

A few years back I was blessed to be placed in a critique group with two other excellent writers: Shannon Taylor Vannatter and Lorna Seilstad. (You can find my review of Lorna’s debut novel, Making Waves, in a previous posting.) Lorna writes historical romance, and Shannon, contemporary romance.  Both Shannon and Lorna proved to me that you can write a sweet romance AND include authentic, broken lives.

White Roses begins in Romance, Arkansas, on February 14. The heroine, Adrea Welch, is a floral designer who dreads this day every year as it's the anniversary of the day she and her ex-fiancé were to be married. A marriage called off when she caught him with another woman shortly before the wedding. Ouch.

As Adrea’s arranging flowers at a church for a wedding, she meets Pastor Grayson Sterling, a man who still grieves the death of his wife Sara. A few years back, Sara was killed by a hit-and-run driver. Grayson still remembers her every year with a bouquet of white roses. Unknowingly arranged by Adrea.

When reading a romance, you already know the basic storyline. Girl meets boy. They fall in love and live happily-ever-after. What you don’t know is how Girl gets to that fairy-tale ending, and it’s the journey that makes the story worthwhile. Shannon Vannatter is an engaging storyteller who isn’t afraid to take unexpected paths in her works; she isn’t afraid to include broken people. Her characters are real, their lives complex, their faith genuine.

Her stories are more than romance.

So, thank you Shannon, for educating this literary snob and teaching me the diversity of story.

Meet Shannon

Central Arkansas author, Shannon Taylor Vannatter is a stay-at-home mom/pastor’s wife/writer. Like Janette Oke, she views her work as a ministry and her books as paper missionaries. Vannatter hopes to entertain Christian women and plant seeds in the non-believer’s heart as her characters struggle with real-life issues. Their journeys, from ordinary lives to extraordinary romance through Christ-centered relationships, demonstrate that love doesn’t conquer all, Jesus does.

White Rose Trilogy
White Roses, now available in stores
White Doves, currently available through Heartsong Presents. In stores, April 2011.
White Pearls, available through Heartsong Presents, Jan 2011, in stores, July 2011

http://www.shannonvannatter.com
http://www.inkslingerblog.com
http://www.inkspirationalmessages.com

They Almost Always Come Home

debut novel by Cynthia Ruchti

Abingdon Press
300 pages

Beautiful Blend of Page-Turning Story and Character Discovery

For years Libby Holden has languished in a lifeless marriage. More than anything she longs to escape it. Maybe then her heart will pump breath into her life once again.

But then her husband Greg fails to return from a solo canoe trip to the Canadian wilderness. Is he lost? Hurt? Dead?

Or did he find a way to escape their marriage before she did?

Needing to know the truth, Abby sets out to find him, taking along her father-in-law and best friend. Will the wilderness provide the answers her life desperately needs?

~~~~~
I’ve actually read this book twice. The first time was several months ago when I received They Almost Always Come Home as an advanced reader copy. I dove into the book and was so intrigued by the storyline that I couldn’t put the book down. I simply had to find out what happened to Greg. That’s a good thing right? Every author dreams of writing a page-turner.

The problem was, by rushing through the story I failed to take time to appreciate Cynthia Ruchti’s excellent writing voice. I failed to appreciate the complexity of Libby's and Greg’s relationship.

So, I had to read it again, and waited for a time when I could savor each carefully chosen word. Cynthia’s unique prose is beautiful and befitting of the wilderness she’s describing. It's easy to visualize yourself canoeing the Canadian waters.

And while you're in the wild, the reader journeys deep inside the character’s skins. You feel every sensation, and hear each thought. I love Libby’s honesty and I appreciate her sarcastic wit and her confused feelings. On one hand, she’s worried about her husband. Is he injured? Will he ever be found? On the other hand, Libby's certain that Greg had the guts to walk away from their dead marriage before she did. She says, “I’m angry that he left me when I was about to leave him.” It’s a duality of feelings Libby doesn’t know how to reconcile. As for her faith, it’s very human. Libby’s not some “super Christian” with inauthentic faith that leaves the reader rolling their eyes.

This may be Cynthia Ruchti’s debut novel, but it reads like it was written by a seasoned veteran. I can’t wait to read more from her.

BIOGRAPHY

Cynthia Ruchti is the current president of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), which she’s served in various volunteer capacities since shortly after she became a member in 2002. In her role as president of ACFW, Cynthia writes a monthly “From the President” column for ACFW’s Afictionado ezine. For two years she was one of four humor columnists for Afictionado’s“Let There Be Lite.” In 2007, she was the recipient of the ACFW Member Service Award. In 2008, Cynthia won second place for Women’s Fiction in ACFW’s prestigious Genesis Contest.

Her next work will be released in a four-story compilation, A Door County Christmas.

http://www.cynthiaruchti.com/

I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy from Abingdon Press for review purposes only, but I enjoyed the book so much, I had to buy a store copy.

INSPY Shortlists Announced

The INSPYs, the Bloggers' Award for Excellence in Faith-Driven Literature, has just released their shortlist for the 2010 INSPY Awards. These titles are the top in Christian writing, both fiction and non-fiction. I've read many and am thrilled to see some of my favorite novels and authors listed. So if you're looking for a book that's different, something that challenges, the INSPY shortlist is the perfect place to start.

INSPY Shortlist

The Famous One

by Nicole Petrino-Salter

Pleasant Word
364 pages

A Search for Meaning in the Seemingly Perfect Life

Have you ever wondered what it would be like if Tom Cruise became a born-again Christian? What about Steven Spielberg? Angelina Jolie? Can you imagine the witness they would have? The stories they could tell through movies? Personally, I’ve always wanted to see what Spielberg could do with This Present Darkness.

And don't you ever wonder why there is so much dissatisfaction in Hollywood when the stars have everything? Why do so many actors try to anesthetize their seemingly perfect lives by abusing drugs and alcohol?

With a concept similar to that of Creston Mapes’ Rock Star Chronicles (Dark Star and Full Tilt--about a Mick Jagger-like rock star who is pursued by God), I wonder if Nicole Petrino-Salter had those questions in mind when she penned The Famous One.

Joey Parr, Jr.’s life begins in turmoil. His parents continuously fight and eventually divorce. All too often, the quiet, deep-thinking, emotive child is left alone. Loneliness becomes his familiar companion. It follows him through his teen years, and he chases it with drugs, booze, and sex, but the emptiness refuses to leave him alone.

Then he’s discovered by a Hollywood bigwig and Joey is propelled into stardom. Still, fame and wealth do little to alleviate the loneliness. Even when he starts a family, something is missing. But what? He’s got everything anyone could ever dream of having. Shouldn’t he be fulfilled?

In The Famous One, Nicole Petrino-Salter digs into the heart of a man who’s continuously searching for meaning in his life. Even when he has everything, there’s a hole, a sense of worthlessness. Salter deftly takes us through Joey’s entire life. We see him grow and change, but it’s so subtle the reader is unaware that it’s happening. And on this journey, we learn to love this passionate man and root for him even when he’s making terrible choices.

Now that’s excellent storytelling.

A Conversation with Nicole

You told me this is a book of your heart. Could you elaborate further on that? What compelled you to tell Joey Parr's story?

The character of "Sarah" makes this small portion of the story somewhat autobiographical, but, no, I didn't write a screenplay and get to present it to an actor. I did in fact watch a film with an actor I'd heard of but had never seen his work. Immediately following the movie the Lord planted the burden for his soul into my heart. The intensity of the prayer for this man lasted two full years before the Lord eased it away. During the initial prayer for this actor The Famous One came to be.

As I was reading this I kept imagining who "Joey Parr" would be in real life. Did you have someone in mind for Joey? Errol? Colleen?

Joey Parr is based on a real actor. When I researched the information for the making of a film in the Hollywood environs, I also read a book about the particular actor just to get a feel for him and understand who he was as a person. Joey is purely fictional, but I tried to capture the essence of the heart of the man without imitating his life. Beyond him the characters aren't based on specific people. It would be great fun to cast them, though.

Biography

Nicole Petrino-Salter was born and raised a city girl in Seattle, Washington. She loved horses from the time she could talk which is probably why the Lord allowed her to work in the Thoroughbred racing industry for over 30 years. Prior to that she attended the University of Washington for a year taking primarily literature classes. After watching a film starring a British actor, she worked for a year and dashed off to Europe to find him. On her final day in London, she saw him and he said good morning to her. She returned to the U but realized it was too much like school and finally found her home with horses at the racetrack.

Nicole loves the Lord Jesus Christ who rescued her and set her free. She's married to the handsomest man in the world, has two adult sons, and three grandchildren.

Nicole's blog: http://hopeofglory.typepad.com/

Making Waves

As a writer as well as a reader, I’m blessed to have two incredible critique partners. We’ve been working together for two and a half years and, in that time, we’ve all seen our fiction writing skills grow exponentially. But more importantly, I’ve gained two beautiful, encouraging friends. I am thrilled to highlight their debut novels here. So yes, I’m admitting my bias up front and am gladly giving them shameless plugs.

Shannon Taylor Vannatter’s book, White Roses, was released by Heartsong Presents in May to their book club readers and will be in stores come this November, just in time for Christmas. I’ll be reviewing her book in October so keep watching for it.

____________________________________________



Making Waves
(Lake Manawa Summers Series #1)

debut novel by Lorna Seilstad

Published by Revell

363 pages

Romance Sprinkled with Humor

Lorna Seilstad’s Making Waves released this September and is already receiving rave reviews. The story begins in 1895 with spunky Marguerite Westing being courted by boring Roger Gordon, a very wealthy man chosen by her mother. The first paragraphs start you laughing with Marguerite’s sarcastic wit, and your smile doesn’t fade as you follow Marguerite’s journey. She falls in love with sailing--not a womanly thing to do in 1895--but more so, she falls for the handsome sailing instructor, Trip Andrews. Does she follow her heart and chose Trip? Or, to save her family’s fortune, will she be forced to marry Roger?

I absolutely love the subtle wit Lorna infuses throughout this story. Oftentimes when people write with humor, it’s evident they’re trying too hard. The laugh lines appear tacked on or forced. Not so with Making Waves. Wit flows naturally from the characters, particularly Marguerite, so keep a tissue handy.

One of my favorite parts of this novel is the setting. It takes place in Lake Manawa, Iowa a water resort community near Council Bluffs. Back in the late 1800’s and early 1900s, it was a real place where the wealthy tented for the summer. The resort area offered water shows and activities. It had dance and gambling halls. It even offered a water carnival that was modeled after the World’s Fair. Sadly, today you see no signs of this resort, but with Lorna’s multi-sensory descriptions she brings the area back to life so history can live on.

Award-winning author Lorna Seilstad has called Iowa home her whole life. She received her B.S. in Education from Lubbock Christian University. After her first child was born, she quit teaching and became a professional wiper. “I wiped noses, tears, skinned knees, baby's bottoms, and counter tops every day. But at nap time, I wrote." Today, she writes historical fiction with a generous dash of humor. Making Waves is her debut novel and the first in the Lake Manawa Summers Series. She and her husband have three children.

http://lornaseilstad.com/
http://inkspirationalmessages.com/

Making Waves is the first novel in a three book series (Lake Manawa Summers series). A Great Catch comes out the summer of 2011, and Summer of Dreams (working title) releases the summer of 2012.

What Would You Change in Christian Fiction?

Here's another intriguing discussion regarding the future of Christian fiction, initiated by Nicole Petrino-Salter on her Into the Fire blog: http://hopeofglory.typepad.com/into_the_fire/2010/08/change-from-the-inside-out-day-one.html

It's refreshing to see and hear people dialogue honestly about this important topic.

The Future of Christian Fiction

Thanks to a post by Mike Duran (Eric Wilson's Open Letter to Readers, Writers, and Publishers of Christian Fiction) at Novel Journey, I discovered this thought-provoking piece written by Eric Wilson, "Is it Time for Christian Fiction to Die?" As someone who continuously searches for Christian fiction that dares to get messy, I found many of Wilson's observations all too true. I'm not seeking the end of Christian fiction, but I do hope that it opens its doors to authors who dare to challenge readers and not just offer escape.

Back on Murder

(a Roland March Mystery)

by J. Mark Bertrand

Bethany House
384 pages

Crime Drama That Towers Above Others in Christian Market

Roland March is a Houston homicide detective who seems to be headed out of the force. He’s lost the respect of his fellow officers and doesn’t seem to care. But then he’s given one last opportunity to prove himself when an evangelist’s daughter goes missing. His gut tells him her disappearance is tied to recent multiple murders at a drug house, but the facts don’t point in that direction. The case becomes personal to him, and he won’t back down until he uncovers the truth, regardless of what it costs.


Review:

I love a good crime novel. Michael Connelly’s Harry Bosch stories are among my favorites. But, in the world of Christian fiction, where Amish and romance stories reign, finding novels that even shadow Connelly’s quality are rare. J. Mark Bertrand, in his first solo effort (He wrote Bequiled with Deeanne Gist), has proven himself more than capable. He’s penned an intriguing mystery, one that keeps the reader guessing to the end. He layers it with details that show he understands not only police procedure, but how it affects their thought process and their home life.

Bertrand also uses a couple of literary devices that I typically don’t care for. Back on Murder is written in first person using present tense, which if not written very well, will draw the reader out of the story. More and more authors are attempting to write in present tense as it theoretically makes what happens more immediate, but what they succeed in doing is jarring the reader from the story. My internal editor can’t help but edit the story to the more common past tense. Not once did that happen in Back on Murder. Bertrand used the device with expertise so that the reader doesn’t automatically say to themselves, “This is present-tense.” You’re just reading his unique voice.

I look forward to reading more from J. Mark Bertrand.

Blaze of Glory

by Major Jeff Struecker
and Alton Gansky

B&H Books
400 pages

Page-Turning Military Suspense

A string of female suicide bombers sends Sergeant Eric Moyer and his Special Operations team overseas to stop the bombings and to thwart a possible attempt to assassinate several heads-of-state. Thus begins the non-stop action in Blaze of Glory by Major Jeff Struecker and Alton Gansky.


In Struecker’s and Gansky’s sophomore effort together, they succeed in penning a book even better than their first (Certain Jeopardy). Not only does the reader experience continuous action, but the authors flesh out their characters more in this second novel. With Struecker’s experience as an Army Ranger, the reader knows the storyline is believable. The emotional tension is as intense as the firefights. You’ve got one soldier who proposed right before the team gets the call, and another soldier whose battle with post-traumatic stress disorder is more terrifying to him than a gun fight. His uncontrolled flashbacks may jeopardize the safety of the entire unit. This is more than page-turning adventure. You really care about the people involved.

If you’re looking for a great story, one that’s set apart from the majority of books on the Christian bookshelves, then pick up Blaze of Glory.

***

Major Jeff Struecker now serves as an Army Chaplain. He is probably best known for his role in what has become known as Black Hawk Down. Besides his novel collaborations with Gansky, Struecker penned a biography, The Road to Unafraid (review also posted on this blog), another very worthwhile read. http://www.jeffstruecker.com/

Alton Gasky is the author of thirty books, 24 of which are suspense or supernatural suspense novels. When he’s not writing, he provides writing services through his business, Gansky Communications, and he often speaks at writing conferences around the country. http://www.altongansky.com/

2010 Christy Award Winners

Christy Awards are given annually for books that achieve excellence in Christian fiction. The winners were announced last night in St. Louis, Missouri.

Congratulations to the winners and thank you for advancing Christian fiction.

Contemporary Romance
Breach of Trust by DiAnn Mills (Tyndale House Publishers)

Contemporary Series, Sequels & Novellas
Who Do I Talk To? by Neta Jackson (Thomas Nelson)

Contemporary Standalone
The Passion of Mary-Margaret by Lisa Samson (Thomas Nelson)

First Novel
Fireflies in December by Jennifer Erin Valent (Tyndale House Publishers)

Historical
Though Waters Roar by Lynn Austin (Bethany House Publishers: a Division of Baker Publishing Group)

Historical Romance
The Silent Governess by Julie Klassen (Bethany House Publishers: a Division of Baker Publishing Group)

Suspense
Lost Mission by Athol Dickson (Howard Books: a Division of Simon & Schuster)

Visionary
By Darkness  Hid by Jill Williamson (Marcher Lord Press)

Young Adult
North! or Be Eaten by Andrew Peterson (WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group)

Enemies Among Us

by Bob Hamer

Fidelis Books
336 pages

Gritty and Fast-Paced Realism in Debut Action/Thriller

I love action/thriller novels. Vince Flynn and Michael Connelly are a few of the authors whose books I won't miss. But, while I love Flynn & Connelly, the problem is, they're not exactly suited for the church library shelves. While there are action/thrillers in Christian fiction, it's rare to find comparable works, books that will intrigue across the religious line. Steven James is probably the best at appealing cross-genre and Tim Downs takes a close second.

Enemies Among Us, by veteran undercover FBI Agent Bob Hamer, leaps that barrier, and the book's even endorsed by Vince Flynn. Enemies is the action-packed story of Matt Hogan, a "cowboy" undercover agent who is given the assignment of tracking a terrorist cell in Los Angeles. This adrenaline-laced novel is highly detailed and intricately woven together. Hamer takes the reader inside Matt Hogan's life and mind-set. We experience the job's lethal dangers, plus we see the difficult balance required to maintain a happy marriage.

Albeit, the novel wasn't perfect. Some of the dialogue was stodgy, and at times the description stalled the action, but all-in-all I was very pleased with the book and Bob Hamer has definitely been added to my list of must reads.

2010 Christy Award Finalists Announced

Each year, Christy Awards are given to writers whose novel has demonstrated excellence in Christian fiction. I look forward to reading this list every year, hoping to see my favorite books, and wondering which ones I've missed reading.

I'm pleased to see that the nominees include a number of books I reviewed over the past year, several of which are on my all-time favorite reads list. To revisit those reviews, just click on the title: Daisy Chain by Mary DeMuth, The Passion of Mary-Margaret by Lisa Samson, The Familiar Stranger by Christina Berry, Scared by Tom Davis. Two additional finalists, June Bug (a modern day retelling of Les Miserables) by Chris Fabry and Fireflies in December (poignantly portrays the horror of prejudice in the 1930's) by Jennifer Erin Valent are on my all-time favorite reads list. (see my Highly Recommend Reading list in the sidebar)

Of course, there are always a few additional titles I believe are worthy of a Christy: White Picket Fences by Susan Meissner is a story that peeks beyond the pristine fences of a normal family and finds that fences only mask the truth, and The Frontiersman's Daughter by Laura Frantz.

So, if you love to read and are looking for the novel that goes deeper, that's willing to challenge you and provoke thinking, then check out the Christy Awards.

For a complete list of finalists, visit Inkspirational Messages.

A Symphony of Words

As a reader, one element I continuously look for in a book is lyrical prose, where the words flow together creating a beautiful melody. Admittedly, such works are difficult to find. Athol Dickson is one such author whose stories transcend plot and character. When you read them, you feel like you've heard a Bach masterpiece.

In the Novel Journey blog, (Forgotten Beauty - March 4, 2010) Athol Dickson talks about beauty in writing, how that is rarely mentioned when discussing craftsmanship. If you, too, desire more from a story, if you seek prose that plays like a symphony, I recommend reading his eloquently said post. http://noveljourney.blogspot.com/2010/03/forgotten-beauty.html.

The Pastor's Wife

by Jennifer AlLee

Published by Abingdon Press (2010)
288 pages

A Story of Marriage Restoration

Six years after walking out on her marriage to her pastor husband, Nick Shepherd, conditions of a will force Maura Sullivan to move back in with him.

For six months.

For six months she’d have to live with him in the parsonage, albeit separate bedrooms, and face the church and community who adore her husband. Maura and Nick agree to the conditions knowing full well the intention of the deceased was to reunite them. Maura knows that will not happen. Her secret insures it can’t happen.

Review:

This Valentine’s Day, it’s only fitting to provide a review of a romance. Now, The Pastor’s Wife isn’t what you’d term a normal romance, after all, the couple is still married. And there’s an odd rule in the romance novel world that says “romance” only occurs between a non-married couple.

I beg to differ.

That’s part of what makes this book an enjoyable read. As the reader, we witness a rekindling of a flame long thought burned out. We see two people assess their past behavior and get a glance into their spouse’s point-of-view. As in real-life marriages, both husband and wife make mistakes, and when true repentance happens, marriages long gone cold can be reignited & restored.

In her sophomore novel, Author Jennifer AlLee does a good job of showing the unique challenges facing pastors and their spouses. How does a pastor serve his congregation fully and not neglect his wife? How does the spouse live up to the church’s expectations, and does she sacrifice her own needs along the way? I also like that the author includes Nick's perspective. All too often, in Christian fiction, the husband's point-of-view is ignored leaving the story one-sided. Jennifer deftly avoids this trap making for a deeper, more satisfying read.

Introducing Jennifer AlLee

As a child, Jennifer AlLee lived above a mortuary and had to be very quiet when services were going on downstairs, which solidified her life-long love of books and writing. Jennifer now resides in the grace-filled city of Las Vegas with her husband and teenage son.

A Chat with Jennifer:

Your book’s topic is unique. What inspired you to write it?

I served as a church secretary for many years which definitely gave me a unique perspective on the lives of a pastoral family. I worked at two different churches. One was a large denominational church, the other much smaller and non-denominational. But the lives of the pastors were quite similar. There’s always another meeting to go to, or one more person that needs counseling. People feel very possessive about their pastors. This usually manifests itself in positive ways, but sometimes it crosses a line. You have to watch out for that. And the pastoral family faces challenges no one really thinks about. They basically live in a glass house and are expected to be active members of every church activity, whether they’re interested in it or not.

When I was working on the original concept for this novel, I thought about the pastors’ wives I’ve known over the years. They’ve handled themselves with amazing grace under pressure. But what if another woman couldn’t? What if a young woman thinks she knows what she’s getting into, but the reality of losing who she is and becoming a “pastor’s wife” is more than she can handle? What if some other tragedy pushes her over the edge? Would she run? And what would happen if she had to return to the scene of her heartbreak years later? All those questions eventually became The Pastor’s Wife.

As a pre-published author, I’d like to know what advice you have for aspiring writers.

From a craft standpoint, there are two things you can do to become a better writer: read and write. Read books about the craft of writing and read other books in your genre. But don’t stop there. If you write sweet romances, stretch yourself and pick up a thriller. If you write historicals, try out a sci-fi or fantasy novel. Great writing is great writing, regardless of the subject matter. You can learn a lot by reading broadly.

For personal well-being, I would encourage every writer, no matter what stage you’re at, to have a support system. This includes belonging to a writer’s organization. I’m a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, which has been a huge blessing to me. Through it, I’ve cultivated friendships with other writers, including my best friend who is also my critique buddy. It’s great if your family supports your writing, but trust me, you need to have people you can go to who “get” you.

Thank you, Jennifer, for stopping in today. It was a joy getting to know you.

For more information on Jennifer AlLee

Read the first three chapters of The Pastor's Wife here: http://issuu.com/abingdonpress/docs/pastors_wife

Contact Jennifer in cyberspace:
website - http://www.jenniferallee.com/
personal blog - http://jenniferallee.blogspot.com/
group blog - http://inkwellinspirations.blogspot.com/

Abingdon Press provided this book for review purposes only.