Source: ACFW New Releases: May 2016

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Amish Romance:

Amish Firefighter by Laura Hilton — Banished from home and blamed for a barn fire at her new residence, Abigail Stutzman is desperate to prove her innocence. But God doesn’t seem willing to help. Volunteer firefighter Sam Miller is determined to atone for his past. When local barn fires escalate, everyone suspects arson. And since the Miller family are among the victims, Sam means to see the perpetrators are brought to justice. When Abigail and Sam meet at the site of a barn burning, the emotional intensity rivals the warmth of the flames. Soon, they must decide whether this fire is one they should feed or extinguish. And they’ll discover that the truth can prove more dangerous than a blazing inferno. (Amish Romance from Whitaker House)

Biblical Fiction:

Land of Silence by Tessa Afshar — Before Christ called her daughter . . .Before she stole healing by touching the hem of his garment . . .Elianna is a young girl crushed by guilt. After her only brother is killed while in her care, Elianna tries to earn forgiveness by working for her father’s textile trade and caring for her family. When another tragedy places Elianna in sole charge of the business, her talent for design brings enormous success, but never the absolution she longs for. As her world unravels, she breaks off her betrothal to the only man she will ever love. Then illness strikes, isolating Elianna from everyone, stripping everything she has left. No physician can cure her. No end is in sight. Until she hears whispers of a man whose mere touch can heal. After so many years of suffering and disappointment, is it possible that one man could redeem the wounds of body . . . and soul? (Biblical from Tyndale House)

Contemporary Romance:

Kiss the Bride Novella Collection by Robin Lee Hatcher, Melissa McClone, and Kathryn Springer — Picture Perfect Love by Melissa McClone: Attorney Ashton Vance is the one that got away, but he wrongly blamed wedding photographer Jenna Harrison for ruining his political aspirations. Even if Jenna can forgive him, dare he hope for a second chance at her love? I Hope You Dance by Robin Lee Hatcher: Groomsman Grant Nichols and former rodeo queen Skye Foster are no match on paper. But when the male kitchen genius and the rodeo queen-turned-dance-tutor step onto the dance floor, they create a melody all their own. Love on a Deadline by Kathryn Springer MacKenzie: Newspaper social events writer “Mac” Davis is charged with covering the celebrity wedding of her high school nemesis. The only highlight of the job is spending time with Ethan Channing, the bride’s older brother—and Mac’s first crush. (Contemporary Romance from Zondervan)

An Informal Introduction by Heather Gray — An ICU nurse and a state trooper find their lives crossing paths professionally and personally. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

The Cowboy’s Twins by Deb Kastner — Hardened cowboy Jax McKenna finds twin girls on his doorstep, and only new-to-the-area Faith Duggan, who needs horse-whispering Jax’s assistance with her new mustang rescue, can help make Jax the daddy he longs to be. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Rescue Me by Sandy Nadeau — First Responder Ronnie Spencer has a no-dating-firefighters rule. She lost her father to a fire, and won’t risk the heartbreak of losing someone else. But when Steve McNeal returns, Ronnie’s heart is tested. How can she swear off dating a firefighter when she has to work with the one man she used to love? When the unthinkable happens, Ronnie has doubts. How can a loving God allow tragedy to stalk her life again? As her faith wavers, Ronnie must decide. Will their blossoming relationship be quickly extinguished by the very thing she feared, or will Ronnie trust God and allow her heart to be rescued–even if that means giving it to a firefighter? (Contemporary Romance from Harbourlight Books [Pelican])

Falling for the Hometown Hero by Mindy Obenhaus — After returning home wounded from an IED attack, former soldier Kaleb Palmer is hailed as a hero. But survivor’s guilt makes him feel like a fraud. He hopes setting up a business in Ouray, Colorado, will give him a purpose and help him forget. But his new office manager has her own plans. Grace McAllen brings light and hope wherever she goes, and she’s getting Kaleb to open up. As she helps him make Mountain View Jeep Tours a success, Kaleb realizes a happy ending is in reach, if he can convince Grace to stay in town–and his life–forever. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Her One and Only by Becky Wade — When NFL super star Gray Fowler is threatened by a stalker, his team hires a professional bodyguard to ensure his safety. But when Gray’s “protection” turns out to be a woman half his size, he’s indignant. Will Dru Porter–a former Marine and expert markswoman–prove herself worthy of the job? And meanwhile, who’s going to guard Gray’s heart? (Contemporary Romance from Bethany House [Baker])

Historical Romance:

Sofi’s Bridge by Christine Lindsay — Can Sofi trust Neil, whose gentle manner brings such peace to her traumatized sister and such tumult to her own emotions, and can Neil, the gardener, continue to hide from Sofi that he is really Dr. Neil Galloway, a man wanted for murder? (Historical Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])

Anchor in the Storm by Sarah Sundin — For plucky Lillian Avery, America’s entry into World War II means a chance to prove herself as a pharmacist in Boston. She loves the wartime challenges of her new job but spurns the attention of society boy Ens. Archer Vandenberg. As Arch’s destroyer battles U-boats along the East Coast, Lillian uncovers a black market drug ring. Arch and Lillian work together on the investigation, but can he ever earn her trust and affection? (Historical Romance from Revell [Baker])

His Prairie Sweetheart by Erica Vetsch — After being jilted at the altar, Southern belle Savannah Cox seeks a fresh start out West and accepts a teaching position in Minnesota. But between her students’ lack of English, the rough surroundings and sheriff Elias Parker’s doubts and distrust, Savannah’s unprepared for both the job and the climate. However, she’s determined to prove she can handle anything her new town throws her way. Elias gives it a week–or less–before the pretty schoolteacher packs her dainty dresses and hightails it back home. But no matter how many mishaps he has to rescue her from, Savannah doesn’t give up. Yet the real test is to come–a brutal blizzard that could finally drive her away, taking his heart with her… (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Mystery/Thriller/Suspense:

Murder Comes by Mail by A. H. Gabhart — Deputy Sheriff Michael Keane must desperately try to protect those he loves when a serial killer threatens all he holds dear in Hidden Springs. (Cozy Mystery from Revell [Baker])

The Progeny by Tosca Lee — Emily Jacobs is the descendant of a killer. Now, she’s become the hunted in a 400-year-old war between the offspring of “Blood Countess” Elizabeth Bathory, the most prolific female serial killer of all time, and a secret society dedicated to erasing every one of her posterity. She’s on a quest that will take her to the secret underground of Europe and the inner circles of three ancient orders–one determined to kill her, one devoted to keeping her alive, and one she must ultimately save. (Supernatural Thriller from Howard [Simon & Schuster])

Medical Judgment by Richard L Mabry, MD — Someone is after Dr. Sarah Gordon. They’ve stalked her, then set a fire at her home, and she has no idea what will come next. Her late husband’s best friend and a recovering alcoholic detective are trying to solve the mystery before it’s too late, but both appear to be vying for her affection as well. Sarah finds herself in constant fear as the process plays out. The questions keep mounting. Who is doing this? Why are they after her? What will they do to her? Will it mean her death? And, meanwhile, whom can she trust? (Medical Thriller from Abingdon Press)

Romantic Suspense:

Sins of the Past by Lynette Eason, Dee Henderson, and Dani Pettrey — In Dee Henderson’s “Missing,” a Wyoming sheriff is called to Chicago when his elderly mother goes missing. Paired with a savvy Chicago cop, the two realize her disappearance is no accident and begin a race against the clock. In Dani Pettrey’s “Shadowed,” adventure, romance, and danger collide when a young fisherman nets the body of an open-water swimming competitor who may actually be a possible Russian defector. Lynette Eason’s “Blackout” delivers the story of a woman once implicated in a robbery gone wrong. The loot has never been found–but her memory of that night has always been unreliable. Can she remember enough to find her way to safety when the true culprit comes after her? (Romantic Suspense from Bethany House [Baker])

Medusa’s Hands by Monica Mynk — When Megan’s friend goes missing, she has to team up with her alcoholic stepbrother to save her from a human trafficking scheme. (Romantic Suspense from Mantle Rock Publishing)

Women’s Fiction:

Home to Chapel Springs by Ane Mulligan — Trouble comes to Chapel Springs in the form of a homeless author, a heartbroken daughter, and a theatre ghost. (Women’s Fiction from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas)

All About Mercie by Sharon Srock — Scottlyn Rich is sixty-seven days from her wedding to Grant Weber, but she feels more orphaned and adrift than ever. Until her mother walks through the door. Grant Weber has spent two years earning Scottlyn’s trust and can’t believe how easily she accepts her mom’s excuses. There’s something off about Jocelyn Rich and he’s determined to find answers even if it costs him everything. Will Scottlyn allow deception to derail her future, or will she take hold of wisdom and realize that her life truly is all about Mercie? (Women’s Fiction from A Blonde and a Prayer Books)

The Mercie Collection by Sharon Srock — The Mercie Collection is three novellas in one. For Mercie’s Sake: A teenage victim of rape is disowned by her family when she refuses to abort the child she carries. Determined to raise her baby, she finds refuge with a widowed school teacher harboring sorrows of her own. Begging for Mercie: College student Scottlyn Rich is about to celebrate her daughter’s first birthday when she receives news that the young man who raped her has died in prison. His grieving mother wants custody of Scottlyn’s child. Can God find a way to bring peace to both women, or will someone end up begging for Mercie? All About Mercie: Scottlyn Rich is weeks away from her wedding to Grant Weber, but she feels more orphaned and adrift than ever. Until her mother walks through the door. Grant Weber has spent two years earning Scottlyn’s trust and can’t believe how easily she accepts her mom’s excuses. He’s determined to find answers even if it costs him everything. Will Scottlyn allow deception to derail her future, or will she take hold of wisdom and realize that her life truly is all about Mercie? (Women’s Fiction from A Blonde and a Prayer Books)

Source: ACFW New Releases: April 2016

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Contemporary Romance:

A Twist of Faith by Pepper Basham — A high class speech language pathologist and an unrefined cattle farmer cause sparks in this modern retelling of the beloved classic My Fair Lady. (Contemporary Romance from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas)

Coast Guard Sweetheart by Lisa Carter — Second Chance Sailor When coast guard officer Sawyer Kole is stationed again in Kiptohanock, Virginia, he’s ready to prove to Honey Duer that he’s a changed man–and the right man for her. But it’s not smooth sailing when a hurricane blows their way. To save the family inn she’s restored to perfection, Honey will ride out the storm. But can she handle the turbulence of seeing Sawyer again? Years ago he walked away, taking her dreams of love. Now as Hurricane Zelda barrels down, Honey may have no choice but to trust Sawyer to save her life and–just maybe–her heart. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Better than Fiction by April W Gardner and Michelle Massaro — While creating a fictional romance, a novelist dissatisfied with her marriage falls prey to an emotional affair with her spiritual, sensitive friend, Curtis, who inspires her handsome hero. Meghan Townsend imagines the whole thing as harmless…until it isn’t. Under Meghan’s skillful pen, her characters, a 1916 heroine and a reckless racecar driver, embark on a thrilling, adventurous romance. But she finds that writing those love scenes with Curtis’s face in mind takes her heart places it shouldn’t go. Will she realize in time that real life can be better than fiction? (Contemporary Romance from Plaited Press)

Close to You by Kara Isaac — A disgraced scholar running from her past and an entrepreneur chasing his future find themselves thrown together–and fall in love–on a Tolkien tour of New Zealand. (Contemporary Romance from Howard [Simon & Schuster])

Historical:

Counted With the Stars by Connilyn Cossette — Sold into slavery by her father and forsaken by the man she was supposed to marry, young Egyptian Kiya must serve a mistress who takes pleasure in her humiliation. When terrifying plagues strike Egypt, Kiya is in the middle of it all. To save her older brother and escape the bonds of slavery, Kiya flees with the Hebrews during the Great Exodus. She finds herself utterly dependent on a fearsome God she’s only just beginning to learn about, and in love with a man who despises her people. With everything she’s ever known swept away, will Kiya turn back toward Egypt or surrender her life and her future to Yahweh? (Historical from Bethany House [Baker Publishing])

Historical Romance:

Stitching a Life in Persimmon Hollow by Gerri Bauer — Living with her aunt and uncle, housekeeper Josefa longs for the glamorous life of a fashion designer far beyond her small town. But her dreams alarm her Tia Lupita, who fears Josefa’s ambitions are unrealistic for a girl of her station. When Lupita announces a plan for Josefa to move away from Persimmon Hollow to live with distant relatives in Texas and prepare for an arranged marriage, the headstrong beauty knows she has to make an audacious choice. And when a decision arises between two suitors, will she choose a rich man who could give her all the outward trappings she desires, or a quiet carpenter who has fewer material goods but a bigger heart? (Historical Romance from Franciscan Media)

The Lady and the Mountain Call by Misty M. Beller — Trapper Reuben Scott planned only a quick visit to his parents’ homestead to tan his winter hides, but the strange woman standing at his mother’s stove is a shock. And then this Cathleen Donaghue tells him his father’s dead and his mother is losing her mind. The sad news may bring an end to the life he’s loved–trapping, living in the wild freedom of these mountains, no one demanding he measure up. But he’ll do anything for his family, even deal with this city woman since she seems to connect with his confused mother. When tragedy strikes Cathleen’s family, this impassive mountain man may be the only one with the skills to save her. But can she trust him with her heart, too? (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Where the Heart is Romance Collection by Andrea Boeshaar, Carol Cox, Rhonda Gibson, Sally Laity, Claire Sanders, Connie Stevens, Pamela Kaye Tracy, Erica Vetsch, and Jane West — Journey along with nine women who find themselves on the move out of their comfortable lives and into the unknown as they set up new homes, take on new jobs, seek out loved ones, and encounter romance. Will their faith endure the hardships, and will love form when life is in transition? Written by nine inspirational romance authors who have a passion for American history and faith. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Mail Order Mix-Up by Christine Johnson — When school teacher Pearl Lawson sees an ad for a mail-order bride, she leaps at the opportunity to find a husband for her best friend. Roland doesn’t know how an ad seeking a wife for his brother found its way into print. But now he has to handle the hopeful applicants–women who think he’s the future groom. Not to mention the feisty, matchmaking schoolteacher who is just as determined not to marry as he is. Will this mix-up push Roland and Pearl to forget their plans of staying single and allow love into their lives? (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Losing Lincoln by Stephenia H. McGee — Among the thousands of captured and hopeless Confederates in Elmira prison, Annabelle searches to find the one man who could be the key to saving her inheritance. Matthew will do everything in his power to protect the woman he loves–even if it means keeping her from the truth. Especially given his ties to a desperate madman seeking vengeance. In the final dark days of war, Matthew sets his hopes on Annabelle. She could be the lighthouse that guides him out of the ever encroaching sea of chaos. But first they must allow love and trust to overcome their prideful hearts. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Rumors and Promises by Kathleen Rouser — Sophie Biddle, an heiress on the run with a child in tow, seeks to start over in a small town that doesn’t like secrets. Reverend Ian McCormick has come to Stone Creek to escape past mistakes and prove himself a worthy servant of God and his congregation. They are drawn together by their love for music and her child, Caira, who Sophie tries to pass off as her little sister. Will the scandals of her past destroy his hope for their future? (Historical Romance from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas)

The Reluctant Duchess by Roseanna M. White — Lady Rowena Kinnaird may be the heiress to a Highland earldom, but she has never felt good enough. After a shocking attack, she’s willing to be forever an outcast if it means escaping Loch Morar. While Brice Myerston, the Duke of Nottingham, has never shied away from manor-born ladies, the last thing he needs right now is the distraction of Lady Rowena’s desperate situation. When Rowena’s father tries to trap Brice into marrying his daughter, Brice makes a surprising decision. Rowena wanted to escape the Highlands, but she’s reluctant to marry a notorious flirt. And when she learns that Brice is mixed up in dangerous business with a stolen treasure, she feels pushed directly into the path of everything she was trying to avoid. (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Romantic Suspense:

Silence in the Dark by Patricia Bradley — Two years ago, Bailey Adams broke off her engagement to Danny Maxwell and fled Logan Point for the mission field in Chihuahua, Mexico. Now she’s about to return home to the States, but there’s just one problem. After Bailey meets with the uncle of one of the mission children in the city, she barely escapes a sudden danger. Now she’s on the run–she just doesn’t know from whom. To make matters worse, people who help her along the way find themselves in danger too–including Danny. Who is after her? Will they ever let up? And in the midst of the chaos, can Bailey keep herself from falling in love with her rescuer all over again? (Romantic Suspense from Revell [Baker Publishing])

Picture Perfect Murder by Rachel Dylan — When photographer Lily Parker escapes an attack, she doesn’t want any help from the FBI agent who is convinced she’s a serial killer’s latest obsession. But after one of her photographs is found at a murder scene, it’s clear that Special Agent Rex Sullivan was right. Lily, a former CIA agent, isn’t used to relying on others, but she won’t survive without Rex at her side. And Rex quickly sees that Lily isn’t a typical victim in need of his protection, but a valuable partner who can help him bring down a madman. With the murderer growing bolder, Rex has to convince Lily to trust him with her safety–or she could become the killer’s next victim. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

What Happened on Beale Street by Mary Ellis — When a talented musician is found dead in Memphis, Nate and Nicki are determined to find their friend’s killer with a list of suspects longer than the Mississippi River. (Romantic Suspense from Harvest House)

Reunion Mission by Virginia Vaughan — Lured into a dark classroom, high school teacher Claire Kendall stumbles over the body of a dead student–and into the clutches of the killer. Certain she’s about to die, Claire is shocked when DEA agent Matt Ross bursts in and rescues her. The former army ranger who broke her heart ten years ago is back in town to bust a drug trafficking ring operating at the school. With Claire being framed for the young informant’s murder, she has to put aside their past and trust her handsome ex to keep her safe. But someone is dead set on bringing their hometown reunion to a permanent end. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Speculative:

Tainted by Morgan L Busse — A young woman discovers she can control the laws of science, but every time she does, she kills a part of her soul. If she doesn’t find a cure soon, her soul will die and she will become something else entirely. After a devastating personal loss, Stephen Grey leaves the World City Police Force to become a bounty hunter. He believes in justice and will stop at nothing to ensure criminals are caught and locked up. However, when Kat Bloodmayne shows up in his office seeking his help, his world is turned upside down. Together they search World City and beyond for a doctor who can cure Kat. But what they discover on the way goes beyond science and into the dark sphere of magic. (Speculative from Enclave Publishing)

A Desperate Escape by JC Morrows — The palace is scrambling to recover from a brutal assault . . . the country is in disarray . . . and the royal security team is on edge like never before. Kayden entered the palace under a lie . . . a lie that has now been exposed. Now Prince Dvarius has to decide what to do with his reluctant assassin. (Speculative from S&G Publishing)

The Xerxes Factor by Anna Zogg — USF special agent Kelli Layne has one goal in life—find the girl who was abducted on her watch. Confident and self-sufficient, she doesn’t need anyone. Including God. When she is nearly killed, she is forced to question her ideology. Only one person believes Kelli wasn’t involved in the kidnapping, fellow agent Jayden Song. He risks his career to help her follow the clues to Xerxes IX, an alien planet with a humanoid population. To rescue the missing girl, Kelli and Jayden have no choice but to become fugitives from the law. Can they save the child without forfeiting their own lives? (Speculative from Next Step Books)

Thriller/Suspense:

The Tenth Plague by Adam Blumer — Water turns to blood. Flies and gnats attack the innocent. Marc and Gillian Thayer’s vacation resort becomes a grisly murder scene, with a killer using the ten plagues of Egypt as his playbook for revenge.
When their friend turns up dead, Marc and Gillian put their vacation on hold, enlist the help of a retired homicide detective, and take a closer look at the bizarre plagues as they escalate in intensity. Meanwhile, a stranger is after the Thayers’ newly adopted baby. Will they uncover the truth behind the bitter agenda before the tenth plague, the death of the firstborn son? (Thriller/Suspense from Kirkdale Press)

Source: ACFW New Releases: March 2016

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Contemporary Romance:

The Nanny’s Secret Child by Lorraine Beatty — She had a chance to be a nanny for the child she gave up at birth, and couldn’t say no. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

The Goodbye Bride by Denise Hunter — Lucy Lovett can’t remember the last seven months of her life. She doesn’t remember leaving her fiancé Zac Callahan, moving to Portland, Maine, or getting engaged to another man. All she remembers is loving Zac more than life itself. Zac was just beginning to get his life back on track after Lucy left him with no explanation. And now she’s back–vulnerable, homeless, and still in love with him. Has he been given a second chance with the only woman who stirs his passion and haunts his dreams? Lucy knows she must unlock those missing months and discover why she threw everything away. And Zac knows that if he follows his heart he’ll win back the love of his life–but if Lucy’s memory returns, his would-be bride might say goodbye forever. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

The Red Door Inn by Liz Johnson — Marie Carrington is hoping to find safety and sanctuary on Prince Edward Island, where she reluctantly agrees to help decorate a renovated bed-and-breakfast before it opens for prime tourist season. Seth Sloane didn’t move three thousand miles to work on his uncle’s B&B so he could babysit a woman with a taste for expensive antiques and a bewildering habit of jumping every time he brushes past her. He came to help restore the old Victorian–and to forget about the fiancée who broke his heart. The only thing Marie and Seth agree on is that getting the Red Door Inn ready to open in just three months will take everything they’ve got. Can these two wounded souls find hope, healing, and perhaps a bit of romance on this beautiful island? (Contemporary Romance from Revell [Baker Publishing])

A Glimmer of Hope: A Novella Prequel to Isle of Hope by Julie Lessman — Lacey Carmichael is a wounded girl serving up trouble. Jack O’Bryen is a pastor’s kid bent on serving God. But can they find a glimmer of hope for a future together? (Contemporary Romance from Julie Lessman LLC)

General:

Grace in the Flames by Michelle Massaro — Three people. One God of Grace. John Douglas thought he knew the future God had for him–raise a family and grow old with his bride, Hannah. But then a deadly house fire incinerates his faith, destroying the man he’d been. Worship leader Jenni Dupont conquered her demons years ago and has the scars to prove it. But temptation strikes when her world is shattered, and this time she’s not sure if God can carry her through. Bar waitress April Johanson lives with the secret trauma of an abusive past. Desperate to stay off the streets of Vegas, she’ll do whatever is necessary to pay the rent. When their lives intersect, God will ask them to do the impossible. To love Him even if… (General from Harvest House Publishers)

Historical Mystery:

Dressed for Death by Julianna Deering — Drew and Madeline Farthering attend a Regency-era house party but end up with a murder mystery to solve when one of the guests dies from a drug overdose. Then the dark question arises of whether the death is an accident or murder. Drew is shocked when the police arrest someone he’s trusted and admired since his childhood–someone who’s been smuggling drugs into the country for years. Questioning his own ability to see people as they really are, Drew doesn’t know who to trust, and he’s not ready for the secrets he’s about to uncover–or the danger he’ll bring down on everyone he holds dear. (Historical Mystery from Bethany House [Baker Publishing])

Historical Romance:

The Cowboy’s Bride Collection by Susan Page Davis, Vickie McDonough, Susanne Dietze, Nancy J. Farrier,Miralee Ferrell, Darlene Franklin, Davalynn Spencer, Becca Whitham, and Jaime Jo Wright — Ride onto the open range alongside cowboys and cowgirls who embrace the adventures of living in the Old West from Kansas to New Mexico, Colorado to Texas. Whether rounding up cattle or mustangs, training horses, fending off outlaws, weathering storms, competing in rodeos, or surviving drought these cowboys work hard each day. But when hardheaded men have their weaknesses exposed by well-meaning women will they stampede away or will a lasting love develop? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

The Marriage Bargain by Angel Moore — Lily Warren’s new hat shop is her ticket to self-reliance…until a fire threatens to destroy her dreams. And when Edward Stone–her landlord and the town blacksmith–bursts into her private rooms to rescue her, Lily’s reputation is tarnished. So Edward proposes a solution that could save her good name–even as it puts her independence at risk. With an orphaned niece who needs a mother, Edward believes a marriage of convenience is the answer to his and Lily’s problems. But he didn’t plan on developing feelings for his new wife. Perhaps it’s time for the wary blacksmith to try forging something truly precious–a real family… (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Mystery:

A Fool and His Monet by Sandra Orchard — Despite her mother’s pleas to do something safer–like get married–Serena Jones has joined the FBI Art Crime Team and is learning how to go undercover in hopes of catching the art thief who murdered her grandfather. When a local museum discovers an irreplaceable Monet missing, Jones leaps into action. The clues point in different directions, and her boss orders her to cease investigating her most promising suspect. But determined to solve the case and perhaps discover another clue in her grandfather’s murder, she pushes ahead, regardless of the danger. (Mystery from Revell [Baker Publishing])

Romantic Suspense:

The Stronghold by Lisa Carter — Drug violence, revenge killings, and kidnapping are nothing new along the U.S.-Mexican border. But now teenage girls are disappearing from the Apache reservations of Arizona and New Mexico. Apache tribal cop Pilar To-Clanny and FBI Special Agent Alex Torres have a long and tumultuous history. When someone close to them disappears, Pilar and Alex must risk everything to rescue the child, including facing the unresolved issues of the past, and venture into the no-man’s land of the drug cartels. Can Pilar and Alex work together to stop a sadistic killer before he strikes again? On a quest to rescue those they love, who will rescue them? (Romantic Suspense from Abingdon Press)

Protecting Her Daughter by Lynette Eason — After someone attempts to abduct her daughter, single mom Zoe Collier flees to a remote ranch for safety. But when the would-be kidnappers follow them to Wrangler’s Corner, Zoe must figure out why somebody wants Sophia. Local vet Aaron Starke is determined to help Zoe investigate–and to keep his intriguing new neighbors safe. Zoe’s used to relying on her own wits to survive. But quick-witted, caring Aaron is just the type of man she needs in her corner. And he might be her partner for keeps…if they can find the truth without losing their lives. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Women’s Fiction:

Breaking Free by Jennifer Slattery — Women’s ministry leader and Seattle housewife, Alice Goddard, and her successful graphic-designer husband appear to have it all together. Until their credit and debit cards are denied, launching Alice into an investigation that only leads to the discovery of secrets. Meanwhile, her husband is trapped in a downward spiral of lies, shame, and self-destruction. Can they break free from their deception and turn to the only One who can save them? And will it be in time to save their marriage? (Women’s Fiction from New Hope Publishers)

Source: ACFW New Releases: February 2016

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Amish Romance:

Joshua’s Mission by Vannetta Chapman — Joshua Kline travels from his farm in Oklahoma to offer aid to an Englisch town on the gulf coast of Texas after a category 4 hurricane has ravaged the area. He brings his brother with him, hoping to keep Alton from another brush with the law. Joshua is pleasantly surprised when he hears that Becca Troyer, the bishop’s granddaughter, plans on joining their team. What will Joshua find when he arrives in Texas? A lack of electricity, certainly, which poses little problem for the Amish volunteers as they help restore order from destruction. But a budding romance? A call from God? And a possible healing of his relationship with Alton? (Amish Romance from Harvest House Publishers)

An Amish Market: Four Novellas by Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, Kelly Irvin, and Vannetta Chapman — All the color and variety of a quaint Amish shop in a charming collection of novellas by four of your favorite authors. Love Birds by Amy Clipston: Ellie Lapp takes a liking to Lloyd’s beautifully carved wooden birds, not to mention the young man himself, when she convinces this friend of her deceased brother’s to sell his creations in the gift shop where she works. But will his family’s plans for him come between their budding relationship? A Bid for Love by Kathleen Fuller: Every week, confirmed bachelor Ezra buys Hannah Lynne’s home-churned butter at the local market, barely glancing her way, despite her hope to the contrary. But when Ezra bids an exorbitant amount to win the quilt she had her heart set on, Hannah Lynne can’t stop wondering if Ezra is finally in the market for love. Sweeter Than Honey by Kelly Irvin: Shattering a jar of pickled beets in Bee County’s Combination Store was embarrassing enough without Isabella’s receiving a frosty reaction from the handsome store manager, Will Glick. But she soon learns Will’s heart is in pieces. Now, Isabella finds herself longing to be the one to repair it and renew his faith in love. Love in Store by Vannetta Chapman: Stella Schrock and new employee David Stoltzfus, a recent widower, have to work together to solve the mystery of strange events happening at the Old Amish Mill, and in the process they may find God has more in store than they imagined. (Amish Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

Biblical:

The Prophetess: Deborah’s Story by Jill Eileen Smith — Outspoken and fearless, Deborah has faith in God but struggles to see the potential her own life holds. As an Israelite woman, she’ll marry, have a family, and seek to teach her children about Adonai–and those tasks seem to be more than enough to occupy her time. But God has another plan for her. Israel has been under the near constant terror of Canaan’s armies for twenty years, and now God has called Deborah to deliver her people from this oppression. Will her family understand? Will her people even believe God’s calling on her life? And can the menace of Canaan be stopped?
(Biblical from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

Children’s:

Samantha Sanderson Without a Trace by Robin Caroll — Sam Sanderson dreams of becoming an award-winning journalist like her mother, so she’s always looking for articles to publish in her middle-school paper, where she secretly hopes to become chief editor. With a police officer for a father, Sam is never short on writing material. When Sam’s friend Tam Lee goes missing, all clues seem to point to something sinister in Sam’s opinion. Sam must decide whether to trust law enforcement’s opinion that Tam’s a run-away or follow her heart and poke around for more clues? (Children’s from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

Hope Girl by Wendy Dunham — With the discovery of her birth father, 12-year-old River has to decide if she should continue living with Gram, who has been her family for the past ten years, or with her father, who she’s over-the-moon to have just met but knows little about. And when River is diagnosed with a condition that could impact her future, she feels overwhelmed and bewildered. That’s when River asks God for help and decides to trust him with her dreams. (Children’s from Harvest House Publishers)

Contemporary Romance:

Island Hope by Kimberly Rose Johnson — Metal sculptor Hope Michaels gave up on art when her creativity was zapped by another and buries herself in an electrical contracting job on Wildflower Island. She never imagines her best friend and employer, Piper, would turn matchmaker. When a lonely widower is promoted to manager of the Wildflower Resort, his new responsibilities complicate his relationship with his teenage daughter. Seeking advice from a feisty-but-sweet newcomer, he never expects things to only get more complicated. (Contemporary Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)

General:

Renovating the Richardsons by Virginia Smith — In the small town of Goose Creek, Kentucky, Millie Richardson is renovating a drafty Victorian house into a B&B while her husband, Al, busily writes checks for the renovations. Also, the new vet, Susan, has finally found acceptance from the town–not to mention a hunky new boyfriend, Justin. But things never stay quiet for long in Goose Creek. The inner-county softball game is coming up, and Millie volunteers Al as team manager. But the softball team is a disaster. If they’re not going to embarrass themselves in front of the whole of Franklin County, Al needs Justin to play. But Justin lives just outside the city limits, and the rules say that players must live in town. As if that weren’t enough to keep the town gossips busy, a massage therapist opens up shop in town. Imagine–a massage parlor!–in Goose Creek! No decent Creeker will stand for it. It’s up to Al and Millie–again–to save the day. (General from Harvest House Publishers)

Historical Romance:

The Love Is Patient Romance Collection by Janet Lee Barton, Frances Devine, Lena Nelson Dooley, Vickie McDonough, Darlene Franklin, Jill Stengl, Connie Stevens, and Erica Vetsch — Enjoy the slow dance through the courtship of nine historical couples in the American west, including the territories of Arizona and Wyoming. Just at a time in life when they have nearly given up on finding love, romance enters their lives. But will it be true love, and will it be worth the wait? Find out in this delightful collection written by eight bestselling authors of inspirational romances. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

A Sweet Misfortune by Maggie Brendan — Rachel Matthews isn’t one to rely on others to take care of her. Destitute and alone, she still wants to make her own way and her own money–even if she’s forced into the life of a dance hall girl. Horrified by her circumstances, Rachel’s brother sends a friend–the widely admired cattle baron John McIntyre–to rescue her, then sets off to earn enough money to buy back the family ranch. But when months pass without her brother’s return, Rachel isn’t sure she can take one more day in John McIntyre’s home–especially once she discovers that he’s the one who holds the deed to her family’s ranch. (Historical Romance from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

A Spy’s Devotion by Melanie Dickerson — After suffering a battlefield injury, wealthy, well-connected British officer Nicholas Langdon returns home to heal—and to fulfill a dying soldier’s last wish by delivering his coded diary. At a ball hosted by the powerful Whilhelm family, Langdon meets their beautiful and intelligent ward, Julia Grey. Honoring propriety, he keeps his distance—until the diary is stolen and all clues lead to Julia’s guardian. As Langdon traces an evil plot that could be the nation’s undoing, he grows ever more intrigued by the lovely young woman. And when Julia realizes that England-and the man she is falling in love with—need her help, she finds herself caught in the fray. (Historical Romance from Waterfall Press, an imprint of Amazon Publishing)

The Express Rider’s Lady by Stacy Henrie — Delsie Radford’s father may have kept her and her sister apart, but Delsie refuses to miss her sister’s wedding-even with only eighteen days to get there. And she’s found the perfect escort in Pony Express rider Myles Patton. Myles can’t believe it when a pretty socialite hires him to take her cross-country through dangerous territory. He’s sure she’ll give up soon, but the longer they ride together, the more Myles notices the toughness and kindness beneath Delsie’s refined exterior. And though they may be worlds apart…they might just be perfect for each other. (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

The Texan’s Engagement Agreement by Noelle Marchand — It’s been five years since Adelaide Harper broke Chris Johansen’s heart-and their long-distance engagement. But when she steps off a train in Peppin, Texas, and strolls back into Chris’s life, he can’t help but panic. To avoid his parents’ plan to arrange a marriage for him, he’s let his family believe he and Adelaide are still engaged. Adelaide is facing her own troubles with a matchmaking mama and a parade of aggravating suitors. So pretending to let Chris court her could help them both. Surely after five years, there’s no need to worry their time together could reignite a long-buried love…is there? (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Northern Light by Annette O’Hare — The Yankees took her fiancés life, but when a wounded Union soldier washes ashore, needing her help, will she learn to love again or will hate cost him his life? (Historical Romance from White Rose Publishing (Pelican)

Romantic Suspense:

Rocky Mountain Pursuit by Mary Alford — Everyone believes agent Jase Bradford is dead-everyone but Reyna Peterson. Only he can protect her now that someone wants the information her CIA husband died to secure. As the one member of their spy team not killed, Jase must remain in the shadows. Yet when Reyna leads the enemy right to his mountain refuge and blows his cover, Jase risks his life for hers. As his best friend’s beautiful widow scales the walls around his heart, whether out of loyalty or love, he makes it his duty to secure her safety. But when their pursuers trap them in the snowy Colorado mountains, will it become his final mission? (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Always Watching by Lynette Eason — The bodyguards of Elite Guardians Agency have more than just skill and prowess in common–they’re also all women. When it becomes clear that popular psychiatrist and radio personality Wade Savage has a stalker, his father secretly hires Elite Guardians in order to protect his son. But when Wade’s bodyguard is attacked and nearly killed, agency owner Olivia Edwards must step in and fill the gap. Olivia’s skills are about to be tested to the limit as Wade’s stalker moves from leaving innocent gifts at his door to threatening those closest to him. Olivia has the feeling that she’s next on the list. And to complicate things even further, she realizes that her heart may be in as much danger as her client. (Romantic Suspense from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

Navy SEAL Security by Liz Johnson — Wounded navy SEAL Luke Dunham’s only goal is returning to active duty…until he rescues his physical therapist from a lethal attack. Now he’ll risk everything-even his recovery-—to keep Mandy Berg’s attacker at bay. Mandy’s been burned before when she trusted the wrong man. And she knows better than to develop feelings for one of her patients. Yet how can she help falling for a man who does not hesitate to put his strength, his skill and his very life in harm’s way to keep her safe? Relying on anyone feels dangerous…but turning away Luke’s protection could be deadly. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Pandora’s Deed by Monica Mynk — Savannah Barrett fled her Dreyfus home to escape childhood bullies, and planned to stay away for good. Body image struggles have led her to give up so much of herself to empty relationships, she believes no one could desire her for more. Geoff Spencer, her former tormentor, is the man who could love her anyway. He cleaned up his life, stopped bullying, and found Christ. When she inherits his farm, she returns to claim the property and face her dreadful past, never expecting to claim his heart. But the property transfer unearths a mystery that some would prefer to stay buried and plants Savannah in the path of a psychopath who’d rather dispose of her rather than expose the past. (Romantic Suspense from Mantle Rock Publishing)

Cold Shot by Dani Pettrey — In college, Griffin McCray and his four best friends had their lives planned out. But one of them vanished before graduation and their world–and friendships–crumbled. Now Griffin is a park ranger at Gettysburg, having left life as a SWAT-team sniper when a case went bad. The job is mostly quiet–until the day he captures two relic hunters uncovering skeletal remains near Little Round Top. Griffin just wants the case to go away, but charming forensic anthropologist Finley Scott determines that the body is modern–a young social justice lawyer missing since spring–and all evidence points to the work of an expert sniper. When of Griffin’s former friends, FBI agent Declan Gray, takes over the case, past and present collide. Griffin soon realizes he’ll need to confront some of the darkest days of his life if he–and those he cares about–are going to escape a downward spiral of murder that crosses continents. (Romantic Suspense from Bethany House [Baker] Publishing)

Speculative:

The Last Apostle by Dennis Brooke — What if John, the last living apostle of Jesus Christ, was still alive and well… and living in Seattle? In A.D. 100, John is restored to the body of his youth and sent on a mission with a warning: to never reveal his true identity. Fast-forward to modern day Seattle, where both friends and foes are on the verge of discovering who he truly is-an event that will trigger the end times. (Speculative from Made for Grace)

Far and Near by Amanda G. Stevens — Marcus, Lee, Austin, and Violet are starting over. Texas is supposed to be their sanctuary. But the Constabulary isn’t ready to relinquish their worst offenders, legal jurisdiction or not. They’ve sent agents in undercover, and Marcus is the assigned target of one who has personal reasons to bring him back dead or alive. Marcus and Lee are ready to be whole again, to secure a home here–together. But wholeness and home might not mean what they thought. Stopping the Constabulary hunters will require more than Marcus knows how to give, and God is about to use him again in a way he doesn’t expect. (Speculative from David C. Cook)

Thriller/Suspense:

Voice in the Wilderness by H. L. Wegley — As catastrophes drive the US into martial law, all eyes are on America, waiting to see what emerges. KC Banning, network specialist, discovers President Hannan’s tyrannical plans and is branded a terrorist, sending her fleeing the Beltway to find her childhood soulmate and protector, Brock Daniels. Brock, a writer and man of faith, gives CPR to a dying nation through his blog, which is read by military members still loyal to the Constitution. But starting a grassroots insurgency while reconciling KC’s and Brock’s broken relationship proves difficult. When Hannan sends Special Forces to kill Brock and KC, starting a war in the Central Oregon desert, reconciliation, like staying alive, might be impossible. (Thriller/Suspense, Independently Published using Trinity Press International)