Novel Anticipation - January 2012

My January book wish list is a bit light, but that's okay. The kids have had more days off of school than they've had on, plus I'd really like to complete my current work-in-progress by mid-February. So, that leaves little time for reading.

That said, a couple of my favorite authors release novels this month: Chris Fabry and Dale Cramer. If you enjoy stories told with a lyrical quality, ones that bend toward literary writing, then I highly recommend by Fabry and Cramer. Both authors also know how to knit stories that speak to the heart.

Now, admittedly, I don't read Amish novels, but Cramer comes from a different angle. His Levi's Will is a phenomenal book. So, even if you're not an Amish reader, I'd recommend giving The Captive Heart a try.

NOT IN THE HEART

by Chris Fabry

Truman Wiley used to report news stories from around the world, but now the most troubling headlines are his own. He's out of work, out of touch with his family, out of his home. But nothing dogs him more than his son's failing heart.

With mounting hospital bills and Truman's penchant for gambling his savings, the situation seems hopeless . . . until his estranged wife throws him a lifeline-the chance to write the story of a death row inmate, a man convicted of murder who wants to donate his heart to Truman's son.

As the execution clock ticks down, Truman uncovers disturbing evidence that points to a different killer. For his son to live, must an innocent man die? Truman's investigation draws him down a path that will change his life, his family, and the destinies of two men forever.

THE CAPTIVE HEART

The Daughters of Caleb Bender Series #2

by DaleCramer

Bandit troubles intensify as Caleb Bender's family tries to settle into their new life in 1920s Paradise Valley.

When El Pantera kidnaps Rachel and leaves her brother, Aaron, for dead, Jake Weaver and the Mexican native Domingo pursue the bandit leader to his mountain stronghold in a hopeless rescue attempt. Jake and Domingo manage to escape with Rachel, with the bandits hot on their trail.

In a desperate attempt to avoid recapture, Domingo puts himself squarely in harm's way, giving Jake and Rachel time to get away. This is not the quiet life Caleb Bender envisioned when he led his family out of Ohio.

What is a father to make of his daughter's obvious affection for a man outside the fold? And how will a pacifist Amishman like Caleb respond to the events that threaten his family and their way of life?