Who's up for some Medieval Fun?

It's rare to find Christian novels with a medieval setting. For a number of reasons, medieval novels are not "trendy" in the CBA, and even when written by well-established authors, sales numbers are low. The new exception to this rule seems to be in young adult fiction, which of course is why the medieval series I'm working on is intended for a cross-over teen/adult audience. Melody Dickerson has had a lot of success with this genre, and I hope to follow in her footsteps.

Christian medieval novels can also be found through small presses (like my Dance of the Dandelion with WhiteFire) and through self-publishing venues. Recently I discovered an awesome new series that has been self-published by Tamara Leigh. Tamara is a well-established author in both CBA and ABA romantic fiction. I've previously read and enjoyed her novels written for both audiences, and her new series offers the best of these two worlds.

The back cover reads:

12th century England: Two men vie for the throne: King Stephen the usurper and young Duke Henry the rightful heir. Amid civil and private wars, alliances are forged, loyalties are betrayed, families are divided, and marriages are made.

For four years, Lady Annyn Bretanne has trained at arms with one end in mind—to avenge her brother’s murder as God has not deemed it worthy to do. Disguised as a squire, she sets off to exact revenge on a man known only by his surname, Wulfrith. But when she holds his fate in her hands, her will wavers and her heart whispers that her enemy may not be an enemy after all.Baron Wulfrith, renowned trainer of knights, allows no women within his walls for the distraction they breed. What he never expects is that the impetuous young man sent to train under him is a woman who seeks his death—nor that her unveiling will test his faith and distract the warrior from his purpose.

I loved everything about this book. As an author and editor, I have a hard time these days finding a novel that will actually hold my interest. This one kept me riveted. I read it straight through in a day. I loved tough, scrappy Annyn, and the book brimmed with excitement. I personally liked that it was a bit sexy for an inspirational novel, but that it also had a lovely thread of forgiveness and redemption woven throughout. I also found the author's historical research to be very accurate. For those who love the energy of secular romance novels but would prefer something cleaner, this one should make you as happy as it made me.

And for a quick compare/contrast between Tamara's writing and my own...

This novel is fairly different than Dance of the Dandelion. It follows a typical romance formula and includes a lot of action and suspense. My novel follows more of a coming of age format and is focused on character development more than action. In addition, my novel is set almost two centuries later. However, I think both Tamara and I have a lovely flowing writing style full of awesome description. The books are also similar in that they are both very romantic and even a bit edgy for Christian novels.

Comparing it with my still-in-process young adult novel, Dauntless Love, there are many more similarities. I truly hope that I captured the same excitement and energy that Tamara has brought to life in her action-packed novel. Dauntless Love follows the same romance structure and features a heroine in a man's role, just like The Unveiling, and the settings are only about 60 years apart. The heroines even go through similar journeys of giving up on God after tragedies in their lives and finding their way back within the pages of the book. The main difference is, I avoided any overt sensuality and kept the book more innocent for my teen audience, although there is still plenty of romantic tension. While I would not call Dauntless Love "edgy," there is an innate grittiness to the medieval culture that keeps it from being "sweet."

I highly recommend The Unveiling for older teens to adults who like an edgier, more realistic read. It's a lot of fun and will keep you turning pages late into the night.

Captured by Moonlight

Today I am pleased to recommend an amazing book, Captured by Moonlight by Christine Lindsay. If you haven’t read book one of the Twilight of the British Raj series, Shadowed in Silk, you need to check out this award-winning novel as well. If you have already experienced this breathtaking adventure, let me just say, I think Captured by Moonlight (unbelievably enough) might be even better.

Here’s the official blurb.

Prisoners to their own broken dreams…

After a daring rescue goes awry, Laine Harkness and her friend Eshana flee to the tropical south of India…and headlong into their respective pasts.

Laine takes a nursing position at a plantation in the jungle, only to discover that her former fiancé is the owner…but fun-loving Laine refuses to let Adam crush her heart like he had years ago.

Eshana, captured by her traditional uncle and forced once more into the harsh Hindu customs of mourning, doubts freedom will ever be hers again, much less the forbidden love that had begun to flower.

Amid cyclones, epidemics, and clashing faiths, will the love of the True Master give hope to these searching hearts?

First let me mention the facets of both books in this series that I love. The settings and history are amazing!!! I love these peeks at Gandhi’s India rich with spices and colorful silks. They are full of adventure and a realistic depiction of the difficult lives the characters faced. The spiritual elements are beautifully and organically woven into the stories, and truly inspire me. Christine is a topnotch writer in every sense of the word.

Now for a few of the things that I liked even better in book 2. Laine Harkness is a spunky heroine full of courage and conviction. I love that about her. She’s not afraid to take risks and fight for what is right. I also love the even richer setting of the jungle full of exotic plants, animals, and characters. Finally, my favorite character in book one is Eshana, and she moves into a more pivotal role in book two, launching on her own adventure and exploring her own first hints at romance. Eshana faces many trials in this book which push her to the very edge, yet her deep, personal, and even supernatural faith see her through.

Did I help edit this book? Guilty as charged. But I was given a true gem to start with. The story completely engulfed and delighted me, even in the early draft. I have no doubt you will love it as well.

What's New in CBA Historical Romance???

I adore a good historical romance. What could be more fun than exploring a new time and place while falling in love in the process? However, I don’t particularly adore the oh-so-popular prairie romance. So I’ve been very excited to find lots of new CBA historical romances set in time periods I enjoy.

This summer I particularly focused on books set in America from the late 1800s through the early 1900s. Note that each of these books are located in civilized areas with well-educated, cultured heroines. Ahh, how’s that for a nice change? I’ll let you in on the basic plot lines as well as some of the strengths and weaknesses of each as we go along.

Heiress by Susan May Warren – This was my personal favorite of the bunch. It’s a story of two sisters, both wealthy heiresses in the early 1900s, who follow very different paths in life. One marries for money, while the other follows her dreams to the West where she starts her own newspaper. Perhaps better described as a historical novel with romantic elements, the book is full of surprises, twists and turns, and emotional depth, as it follows them through several decades. What I loved about it was that it took a very real look at the difficulties women faced at that time in history rather than play on the fallacy of “the good old days.” It was realistic and gritty with a lovely literary touch. I’ve heard some readers complain about an adulterous situation in the book, however I think this is an important issue, and the author handles it well. I wish she had made a clearer connection between the adultery and the abuse the heroine suffered, but nonetheless, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is willing to look at the hard side of high society life.

Making Waves by Lorna Seilstad – I would call this one a perfect vacation read. It’s certainly the funniest of the bunch. Lighthearted and full of life. The story takes place on a resort in 1895. The sassy, spunky heroine is determined to learn to sail, although she can’t swim. She pulls plenty of Lucille-Ball-worthy stunts, and her inner dialogue is hysterical. I suppose my only issue was that, as with many romances, much of the early tension has to do with the heroine's blind stubbornness. However, as the story progresses, real issues arise as the man her father wants her to marry shows his true colors. I can’t say this story really stuck with me, but I certainly had fun while reading it.

Glamorous Illusions by Lisa Bergren – My favorite part of this book is that it follows the heroine on the grand tour through Europe in 1913. I loved that, including the cruise aboard a Titanic style ship and the gorgeous Edwardian fashions. It’s fun seeing it all through the eyes of a simple farm girl, who has only recently discovered that her real father is the local copper baron and questions the excess around her. This book had plenty of emotional depth as well, because she has also learned that she is an illegitimate child, and she struggles to find her place in the world and in her new family. Only her thoughtful tour guide (a.k.a. handsome hero) seems to understand her and be on her side. This book was well-written and enjoyable, but I had two small complaints with it. One, not being a prairie lover, I felt that the beginning on the farm dragged along for too many pages, although I stuck with it for the promise of the grand tour. Two, I was surprised that while one storyline concluded, there was not much resolution at the end. You have to continue reading the series to see how the romance turns out. However, I liked it enough to keep reading if time allows.

The Rose of Winslow Street by Elizabeth Camden – Last but not least, this book set in Massachusetts in 1879 was by far the most unexpected of the bunch. A Romanian family of refugees claims a house based on an old will while the owners are gone for the summer. That’s a lot of originality right there. Add in that the Romanian hero grows flowers for perfume and that the heroine who is the daughter of a professor has a severe reading disability, and I was totally hooked. As I mentioned, I hate reading the same old same old, and this was entirely fresh. Of course I’m sure you figured out that it’s her house he’s taken, and yet this good-hearted, artistic heroine finds herself drawn to him and his entire family. The book deals with plenty of very real and stirring issues like prejudice, a minor character whose life was devastated by soldiers in Romania, and a heroine who is verbally abused by the father she loves. The climax of this story was unusual, in that the true emotional climax most strongly affected a minor character and took place in her point of view. Yet it was so beautiful and spiritually triumphant, I can’t bring myself to think it should have happened any other way (although I would have liked to have seen more of her POV earlier). If you want a book truly off the beaten path that still falls in the romance genre and has a happily-ever-after, this just might be the one for you.

What historical romances have you read lately? What did you like? What didn't you like?

The History of Love in Three-Quarter Time

I have a confession to make. I’m not really a history person. At least not in the typical sense of dates and facts, rulers and wars. What I love would probably be referred to more as humanities. I enjoy cultures. The art and architecture and literature of a people group. What did they believe? What made them tick? What music did they live their lives to? In my new historical romance novel, Love in Three-Quarter Time, I had the opportunity to fuse some of my favorite cultures into one novel.

Regency Influence

The Regency period generally refers to the reign of the Price Regent in England in the early part of the 1800s. That’s about as much of the history as interests me personally. But oh the culture! Classical music, ballroom dance, card games, drawing rooms, empire fashions, and a feel of unsurpassed elegance. While my book takes place in the frontiers of America where manners and customs are not nearly as strict as in England, since many of my characters have English roots, it still contains a lovely Regency feel.

Perhaps the Regency influence is best seen in the importance of the waltz. At the time, being an expert at dance was a true marker of high society. While the waltz had been popular on the continent of Europe for years, it was considered scandalous by the conservative Brits and their provincial American counterparts. All of that changed in 1816 when the Prince Regent officially introduced the waltz at a ball. I never was able to pin down a date when it came to America, but as it was well established by the 1830s, my guess is that some brave soul must have introduced it shortly after it became popular in Britain.

Southern Plantation Setting

Most of Love in Three Quarter Time takes place on a southern plantation near Charlottesville, Virginia. Of course this allows for a gorgeous Georgian style mansion, balls, tea on the verandahs, and horseback riding through rolling hills. However it also brings up the tricky topic of slavery. While serious historical novels that face slavery head on and show the full ugliness of the institution can occasionally find a place in Christian fiction, in a genre like historical romance, one must tread lightly. For my novel, I chose to have three of my main characters involved in the abolitionist cause. In addition, at the plantation where the novel is set, slaves are treated kindly, like family.

I felt both of these elements were important to provide an enjoyable exploration of this time for my readers. In this way, the reader does not feel the need to excuse the institution for the sake of the characters, nor are they constantly being brought down by the sadness deeply engrained in the Southern lifestyle. However, I do not avoid the ugliness when it’s important to the story. The abolitionist cause does play an important role in the plot, and by the end, I think the readers will have a greater appreciation for those who fought to end the institution of slavery in our country. I also believe that the inclusion of African-American culture in this book brings depth and heart to the situation.

Native American Culture

Being so close to what was still considered the frontier of America in 1817, my novel also explores elements of Native American culture. Perhaps my most exciting find upon researching for this book was the Black Indian tribe. The Black Indians were a mixed race group of people that included many runaway slaves. That might give you a hint as to how I wove this people group into the plot. They adopted the Indian lifestyle and hid themselves away in the mountains of Virginia. The most famous Black Indians were a Monacan tribe near Bear Mountain in Amherst County. I moved my village slightly north to facilitate my story, however the Monacans did reside throughout the Shenandoah Mountains. I use the Indian culture in my story to allow my passionate heroine an opportunity to break free from Regency customs and explore her more earthy side.

My primary spiritual advisor in this book is an enigmatic circuit preacher named Lorimer. Because he’s been called to minister to the slaves and Indians, he has a unique perspective that draws from both cultures as well as the more British Anglican and Methodist teachings. Of course, all of his personal beliefs are based upon his intensive study of the scripture. This brings a very rich and vibrant sort of spirituality to the book that draws Constance closer to Christ, and I hope it will draw my readers closer to him as well. In fact, the reader has the opportunity to explore Christian worship services of all three groups along with Constance.

I had a fun time merging these cultures in my Jane Austen meets Scarlet O’Hara novel! Of course it took a little creativity to blend all of this history together, so please forgive me if I ever let my imagination lead me astray. Overall, I think I managed to capture all three influences, and I think that you’ll have as much fun with them as I did.

Which culture do you know the most about, Regency, Southern Plantation, or American Indian? Which do you like the best? What is your favorite culture?

The Setting for Love in Three-Quarter Time

Stories come to authors in all different forms. Really, the impetus for this story first came from my agent who asked me to write a historical romance novel set in America during the 19th century. From there we narrowed down the setting to Virginia or Pennsylvania, the two states I know the most about. Then after several weeks of prayer, the initial idea came to me in the form of the title, Love in Three-Quarter Time. So I knew it would have something to do with the waltz.

Regency Era Waltz

I wanted it to take place when the waltz first came to America. However, I could only find absolute documentation that the waltz was officially accepted in England in 1816, when it was included in a ball given by the Prince Regent, and that it was well established in America by 1830. From there I chose 1817, figuring some daring Americans probably tried shortly after their British counterparts. And by choosing this time, I was able to give my book that popular Regency flavor.

Next I needed a place for my story. It seemed that it should start in Richmond and move to a gorgeous Southern plantation home nearer the frontier. So I created the fictional White Willow Hall just off the famous Three Notch'd Road which ran through Charlottesville, Virginia. I decided my plantation would be set in rolling hills with a weeping willow, lots of flowers, and a small pond out front. For the architecture, I thought my Beaumont family might have chosen something similar to the nearby Monticello. Oh! And I would include a few scenes at Monticello for an added historical touch.

Monticello

So I went about writing my book, mostly from my imagination and my memories of Charlottesville. I did some online research. But it wasn't until I had already completed the first draft that I had an opportunity to visit while I was in Charlottesville for the Virginia Festival of the Book. It was quite a feat to figure out where Three Notch'd Road ran today, but with the help of the ladies at the Monticello gift shop, I finally figured it out. Then of course it was farther than expected, and I was running out of gas, and my GPS kept taking me to old country gas stations that weren't open.... Suffice to say, it was the next afternoon before I skipped out on the festival and managed to explore Three Notch'd Road west of the town.

Dina at Birdwood Pavilion (Now a Conference Center) on Three Notch'd Road

And it was so worth it!!!! I found a plantation about 3 miles west of town, right where it belonged, that fit my description almost precisely. The willow and pond were more to the right side than in front. The house did not have a rotunda, but the size, red brick, white pillars, and verandas all matched! You can't tell in the picture, but there are about two sets of rolling hills between me and the house. The plantation would have existed at the time of my story, although the house was built a few years later. I was so excited that I went back after the festival with my travel companion, author Christy Barritt, to snap some pictures.

Garden Pavilion at Monticello

But don't forget those few scenes at Monticello as well. I had actually found great online tours, photos, and videos. So there weren't too many surprises for me. I was, however, oddly shocked that it sat on top of the only mountain in the area. Duh! Thus the name. But I didn't realize there were any mountains that far east. My favorite place at Monticello was a spot where I had already set a pivotal scene. This lovely little garden pavilion where Constance and Robbie shared a passionate kiss for the first time in five years.

I had so much fun with the setting of this story. I hope you'll enjoy it too!

What's your favorite historical time and place? Do you enjoy Southern plantations and old mansions? If you could set a book anywhere, where would you choose?

The Fashion of Love in Three-Quarter Time

In just a few short months my new novel, Love in Three-Quarter Time, will be released. The novel takes place in Virginia in 1817. While America was settling in as a nation, off in England this period was known as the Regency Era, an era well-loved by romance fans for the works of Jane Austen. And just as well-loved for its beautiful fashions. As I was choosing the year for my book to take place a number of considerations came into play. One concern was that I wanted my heroine to dress comfortably without the horrors of corsets, hoops, and bustles. That meant Regency fashion. For most of the next hundred years, fashionable women's clothing will be quite unbearable. So enjoy a quick tour of some of the lovely, free-flowing Regency costumes that inspired this book.

Heroine Constance Cavendish will wear this gown in rose instead of yellow for the climactic big ball. She won't be wearing that weird thing on her head though, and knowing Constance, she's sure to loose her gloves by the end of the night.

Constance's mother and her sister Felicity are brought to Charlottesville from Richmond to make special gowns for Mrs. Beaumont and her twin daughters for the occasion. To the left is Mrs. Beaumont's dress. She's the mother of hero Robert Montgomery by the way. And to the right is the gown worn by the twins. Molly's is blue and Dolly's is pink as shown here.

 

Of course they won't always be dressed up. This period is best known for the basic white muslin day dress with an empire waist.

And we can't forget about the men. While their clothing is not quite as fun, it is important as well. Notice that his pants are full length at this time. Also note the hair and the thick mutton chop sideburns, although only my most fashionable fellows will bother with those details.

Robbie Montgomery is more often dressed like a simple farmer than the dandy above. His normal outfit consists of simple brown breeches, a work shirt, and worn Hessian boots. As the story takes place close to the frontier, I also had opportunities to include mountain man and Indian clothing, such as the fringed buckskin outfit below worn by the handsome and quite manly circuit-preacher, Lorimer.

I hope you enjoyed this little tour of the fashion found in Love in Three-Quarter Time, and I hope you'll enjoy the book even more. For more fashion from 1817, check out this great blogpost. http://nineteenteen.blogspot.com/2010/11/fashion-forecast-1817.html

Which outfit shown above is your favorite and why?

Love in Three-Quarter Time - Description

As most of you already know, my new novel, Love in Three-Quarter Time will be the launch title for the new Zondervan First imprint in October. Between now and then, I'll try to give you some teaser info about the story as well as share the process of preparing the book for release. Here is some of the important info about the book that went to Zondervan in my initial proposal. I hope it whets your interest. In case you haven't guessed from the title, the book revolves around the waltz coming to America :)

Title:               Love in Three-Quarter Time

Hook:              The former belle of the ball must teach the dances she once loved and risk her heart in order to restore her family.

Genre:            Historical Romance

Setting:           Charlottesville, Virginia 1817

Verse:             Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. ~ Psalm 25:5

Concept:         Scarlett O’Hara meets Jane Austen

Content: When the belle of the ball falls into genteel poverty, Constance Cavendish must teach the dances she once loved to help her family survive. The opportunity of a lifetime might await her in the frontier town of Charlottesville, but the position will require her to instruct the sisters of the plantation owner who jilted her when she needed him most. Can Constance possibly face Robert Montgomery, her painful past, and the guilt that threatens to destroy her in time to waltz her way to a fresh start?

Theme: The primary theme of the book is letting God lead your dance and learning to live in the flow of the Holy Spirit.

Audience: Women ages eighteen to eighty who love lighthearted historical romance with spiritual depth.

Top Five Reasons to Admire a Viking

Hi, friends. Here is a funny little post I think you will enjoy from my friend and fellow author, Michelle Griep. Be sure to read about her awesome newly released Viking novel at the bottom :)

Top 5 Reasons to Admire a Viking

1. Sweet Texting Skills

The Viking alphabet, the Futhark, is a series of straight lines. Super easy to carve into a stick, a skull, what-have-you. Much of their communication has been unearthed by archeologists, down to shopping lists, threats, and love notes.

2. Viking Men Put Metrosexuals to Shame

Contrary to popular belief, Vikings were a meticulously clean and well-dressed people group. Unlike the English, they didn’t hold any ridiculous superstitions about bathing opening the door to demon possession. Once a week they soaked in their bubble bath and daily combed out their hair. Clothing was bright and fashionable, often incorporating imported silks and furs.

3. Debt Free Living

These people paid their debts and paid them fast—or were kicked out of the country. Everything had a monetary value, even a life. If you killed someone, you had to reimburse the deceased’s family (called wergild).

4. CEO Determination

They knew what they wanted and went after it. Gold and silver, mostly, though land was high on their list as well. And if a Viking showed up on your doorstep, you’d probably better cooperate. They employed ruthless practices such as the ‘blood eagle’ (I won’t go into detail to spare the squeamish at heart, but let’s just say this activity involved surgical skill, bone cracking, and organ removal).

5. Packers Suck

Enough said.

Now that your appetite is whetted for big, beefy Vikings, there’s a book you really shouldn’t pass up. Take a trip back in time and experience these wild and winsome people in UNDERCURRENT…

People go missing every day. Many meet with foul play, some leave the social grid by choice, but others are never accounted for. Such is the fate of successful linguistics professor Cassie Larson. She leads a life her undergrad students hope to attain, until she tumbles into the North Sea and is sucked into a swirling vortex…and a different century.

Alarik, son of a Viking chieftain, is blamed for a murder he didn’t commit—or did he? He can’t remember. On the run, saving a half-drowned foreign woman wasn’t in his plans.

Ragnar is a converted pagan shunned by many but determined to prove his Cousin Alarik’s innocence. He didn’t count on falling in love with Cassie or the deadly presence of evil that threatens his village in Alarik’s absence.

UNDERCURRENT…dare to be swept away. Available now at Amazon or Risen Books

Amazing New Finds in Fiction!!!!

Lately I've been discovering more and more Christian fiction writers of a high literary quality. You've probably heard me go on and on about Lisa Samson and Roseanna White already. Now let me add to that list Tosca Lee, Patti Lacy, and Laura Frantz. Allow me to share a few thoughts on some of their new books.

Jewel of Persia by Roseanna White

Having read Roseanna's first novel, I knew to expect beautiful writing, heart-stopping romance, amazing characters, exquisite insight into history and human psychology, and even interesting philosophical conversations. However, this book came with an unexpected bonus in the form of a spiritual warfare thread reminiscent of Frank Peretti. And the author tied it in seamlessly with actual historical facts from the Greek accounts of their war with Persia. You may think you've read the Esther story, but never like this. It is told from the perspective of Kasia, one of Xerxes many wives and childhood friend of Esther. The glimpse into the struggle of being one wife of many is unique enough, but Kasia is also Xerxes's true love. She is torn between her very real feelings for the hunky king and her heart-ache over his often capricious actions, allowing the author to weave themes of love, forgiveness, and serving God that you won't soon forget. This book has everything. It's on my favorite list already.

Rhythm of Secrets by Patti Lacy

This incredible book will touch your heart. I confess that I struggled with the dense language and shadowy secrets in the beginning. However, due to the lovely musical quality and important themes of racism and legalism, I pressed on. I'm so glad I did. This book gets better and better with each turn of the page. The ending is one of the best I've ever had the pleasure of readng. It weaves an incredible portrait of grace with unexpected twists and turns. Beautifully paced, insightful, deep, and spiritual. You don't want to miss this book.

Havah: The Story of Eve by Tosca Lee
I'm still processing this book. It affected me on a very deep level. The writing style was simply to die for. Much of the novel reads like a gorgeous prose poem. The juxtaposition of explosive joy and unutterable sadness was almost more than my heart could bear. I never dreamed of reading a CBA book with such earthy sensuality. It ministered to my spirit something radical in the realm of sexual politics and the male/female relationship that my subconscious is still working out. All I know for sure is that this book changed my life.

Courting Morrow Little by Laura Frantz

I'm still reading this one, but I've heard so many great things about Laura Frantz. Here's what I've loved so far. Both the writing craft and the artistry of the book are impeccable. And while it is incredibly romantic, it doesn't follow some of the annoying rules of genre romance. We don't even meet the hero for quite a while. There are no overblown "motives" or "goals" driving the book. It's simply the story of a young woman who longs for love, family, security, and meaning like each one of us. And I adore that Laura has a half-breed Indian in a lead role in the story. This is supposed to be a no no in Christian fiction, yet there it is. I've avoided setting a historical in American because this is exactly the sort of plot that appeals to me: slaves, Indians, injustice, complicated relationships and emotions. And I've been told they wouldn't sell. Thanks, Laura, for proving otherwise.

Love, Passion, and Laurie Alice Eakes

I recently finished Lady in the Mist by Laurie Alice Eakes, and I imagine if you google it, you can find lots of reviews online. You can even find a great interview with her hero on Roseanna White’s blog, which I highly recommend.

So, instead of offering just a typical review, I wanted to share some of the thoughts this book stirred for me concerning love, passion, and romance. Let me begin by saying, it definitely gets five stars on the romance chart. The hero is so roguish and charming, he had my heart-racing throughout the book. I dare say I fell in love with Dominick right alongside Tabitha.

I adored the depth of passion between the hero and heroine as well. As I mentioned in several of my shorter online reviews, often when I read Christian romance, I can’t figure out what in the heck the authors are even writing about. I don’t see those can’t eat, can’t sleep, if you walk out that door right now I might just shrivel up and die sort of moments that I relate with the human experience of falling in love. I see two people slowly, gradually moving toward one another, but at the same time, all too easily talking themselves out of the attraction. Which leaves me to ask:

What planet do these people live on???

Now let me be fair, sometimes in a long standing friendship, especially one beginning in childhood, these feelings can come softly. But in general, in my experience, they hit much more like a freight train, or better yet, a steam roller. I don’t know, maybe it’s one of those wiring personality issues. Maybe "thinkers" feel the emotions, but ultimately their thoughts win out. But, I’m not a thinker. I’m a feeler. So even if I thought a guy was wrong for me, even though I might have managed to physically stay away from him, my heart would be killing me. My fingers screaming to graze his cheek. My eyes darting to catch a heated gaze. My lips tingling at the sound of his voice. Yes, the word passion in my tagline is not a typo.

I sensed this sort of passion between Tabitha and Dominick in Lady of the Mist, and was so happy to find it there. We need this sort of realism in Christian fiction. But, of course, as all good Christians who attended Sunday School know, we shouldn’t be guided by our passions. In fact, in my first novel, the hero who represents uncontrolled passion and desire turns out to be devastating for my heroine. With God’s help she is able to escape him and eventually make her way back to the man she’s destined to marry. So why did this passion and desire work so well in Laurie Alice’s book and not in mine.

The situation was entirely different. Tabitha and Dominick were both at a place in their lives where they had given up on God. (no, I’m not taking an easy cop-out here, stick with me for a minute.) They had both hardened their hearts to God for their own reasons and were trying to earn their salvation, a feat no one can attain. In this book, they wanted to harden their hearts to each other just like they had hardened their hearts to God. In fact, Tabitha didn’t want to trust Dominick, just like she didn’t want to trust God. So in their case, opening their hearts to one another actually helped them to soften their hearts to God. They had to trust their feelings and take a step of faith. They had to let go of old hurts and preconceptions in order for their romance to blossom. Not only had God ordained this relationship, he used them to promote healing in each other's lives. (I don’t need a spoiler alert here, right? We all knew from chapter one that they were going to get together. This is a romance novel.)

God gave us marriage, and yes, I’ll say it, sex, as a beautiful physical portrait of the spiritual intimacy he desires to have with us. So do I believe passion and romance belong in a Christian novel? Absolutely. As long as the author is clear to show how God is working through this romance, I believe it offers the best sort of message possible. And Laurie Alice Eakes, skilled author that she is, used it in just this way.

We all need to have that can’t eat, can’t sleep, if you walk out that door I might just shrivel up and die kind of love for our heavenly father. We should long for his touch, seek his gaze, tingle at the sound of his voice. And romantic fiction creates an interesting avenue to express this powerful truth.

The Master's Wall - Amazing Book, Amazing Author

Today I want to introduce you to a novel by an incredible author with an important tale of her own.

First let me say, this book was just amazing! I was a bit surprised to discover the main characters were children, but quickly got the point. This story is about the children of Christian martyrs in Rome and how their lives play out. David, son of Jewish parents, is taken into slavery, yet continues to spread the good news wherever he goes. Alethea is the granddaughter of a rich Roman, the murderer of her father and David's owner. As David makes sacrifice after sacrifice for Alethea, I see the prayers of her deceased father being answered upon the pages of this book through him. It truly touched me. When David grows into an exceptional warrior and Alethea is promised in marriage to a man she doesn't love, the stage is set for adventure and romance. The ending is full of wonderful twists. But through it all the aspect that shines brightest is the stunning portrait of the love of Christ.

I want to make clear that I truly loved this book before moving on. In fact, as an author who reads and critiques three and four books a month, I've become rather impervious to the power of a good story. But by the end, I couldn't put this one down.

Now about Sandi. On the same day this book released, Sandi, a young mother of four, was diagnosed with an agressive form of brain cancer. She had already been battling MS for many years. I imagine a part of her must have been so exhausted and just ready to give up.

I believe God wants only the best for his children, and yet knowing the future, I'm sure he saw this coming. How like our marvelous, loving father to coincide these two important events in Sandi's life to give her encouragement and support during this time. It makes me believe that he must have exceptional plans for her book and for her life.

Because of this coincidence in timing, Sandi is receiving more prayer support than she ever would have otherwise. At the same time, her book is getting the full attention that it well deserves. In addition, her publisher is donating an extra $1 per book to her family over her normal royalties to support them during this difficult time. You can purchase it here.

The best way to support Sandi is to pray for her and to purchase her book. Multiple copies for gifts if you can. Not only will it support her family, but it will boost her spirits tremendously. Nothing blesses an author as much as knowing others have read their work and been touched by the message God has laid on their hearts.

My prayer for Sandi is this: that this situation turn into an amazing testimony of God's healing power and his love for his children. I long to see her ministry as a writer go on for many, many years to come.

Why Do These Hit Me So Deeply?

Last week I had mentally scheduled to do a review of Golden Keyes Parson's third book in her Darkness to Light Series with Thomas Nelson, titled Where Hearts Are Free. I'm not sure quite what it is about Golden's books that always hit me straight in the gut, in a good way. But this one hit me so hard, I needed time to process it before I was even ready to write this post.

I mean, Golden's an adept writer. Her plots are strong, this latest probably the strongest. Her characters are unique and interesting. Her settings pop to life. I loved the French court in books I and II and yet found myself completely charmed by the rolling Pennsylvania countryside and quaint colonial town in book III. While I normally prefer what I would term "literary fiction" to basic romantic historicals, these books have managed to touch me on a very deep, emotional and spiritual level in a way that few others have.

Of course that leaves me wondering, "Why?"

I think what it really comes down to is the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Golden's writing always was and always will be a ministry. She pulls no punches about that. In addition to being a writer, she is also a pastor. Early in her writing career, she focused on nonfiction until she discovered that fiction is even a stronger way to share Biblical truths. And she couldn't be more right about that. I can't imagine that a sermon or a nonfiction book could ever touch me so deeply.

The journey of the main character, Bridget Barrington, sincerely resonated with me. While I'm not the daughter of a rich colonial landowner arranged to marry a scoundrel, I truly related with her struggle to do what was right. She wanted to please her parents and do what was correct in the eyes of society, yet everything in her heart screamed against it. So often I struggle with religious rules and expectations that don't seem to match what God has planted in my heart. So often I struggle to understand the difference between relying on my own strength to do what is right and learning to rest in God's strength. And much like Bridgett would withdraw into her magical hideaway in the woods or into her own imagination, I often find myself seeking to escape rather than facing and dealing with the hard realities in my life.

Just like Bridget, I long to reach that place where my heart is totally free, not only when I'm dancing or in my secret place with God, but all day every day. This book has become a part of my journey, and for that I am eternally grateful.

Sheer Delight - The Healer's Apprentice

Well, I haven't done a book review in a while. In fact, I haven't been completely swept away since The Passion of Mary-Margaret earlier this year. I did read one amazing secular novel in the interim called A Thousand Splendid Suns about the troubled lives of two Afghani women. It's not for the faint of heart, but it will definitely change the way you view the world, and as many of you know, I love that sort of book. I also truly enjoyed What the Bayou Saw by Patti Lacy, which deals with racism, sexual abuse, and the secret's women keep. Not easy books to read by any means, but well worth the effort.

But today I would like to recommend a new novel from Zondervan that is sheer delight: The Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson. Melanie is a friend of mine and fellow medieval author. This book was a real treat, from the medieval German setting, to the fairy tale elements, to the heart stopping romance. I adored everything about it.

When this book arrived in the mail, my fifteen-year-old daughter hi-jacked it and insisted she read it first. She loved it and finished it in under twenty-four hours (oh, to be young again.) The cover is exquisite and the story line compelling. When the former peasant girl falls in love with the betrothed future duke, things kick off to a strong start. The Healer's Apprentice was released as a teen fiction novel, but I think any romance lover will adore this book. I was surprised and pleased that while geared to a younger audience, it did not shy away from tough issues like abuse, attempted seduction, and the corruption of the clergy at that time. While these topics are dealt with delicately, it is good for young women to learn to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves as the Bible instructs.

This book is well executed all around. Great characters, strong plot, good pacing. The story took some fun twists and turns that will be sure to charm you, and the history was accurate and engaging. Most importantly, though, it contained very strong spiritual elements. The hero and heroine must face the forces of darkness and battle them not with their own strength, but through the power of the name of Jesus. They also learn lessons about trusting God, listening to his voice, and their worth in him. Melanie Dickerson portrayed the right and godly sort of love in this book that will stand the test of time.

So if you are looking for a book that will both entertain you and simultaneously enrich your life, I highly recommend The Healer's Apprentice. Great job Melanie. I look forward to more.

Highland Blessings by Jennifer Hudson Taylor

Did you know, that much like in hair, make-up, and music, trends exist in the publishing world? Oh yes, we writers are subject to “What’s Hot, What’s Not” lists as much as aspiring fashion designers.

What’s “Not Hot” in Christian publishing right now? Sci-fi, Westerns, Medievals, to name a few. In fact, I heard a report that the sales figures on Judith Pella’s one and only Medieval was half that of her normal books. Which is very sad for me, having already written one and a half medieval novels. So, I was very excited about the pending release of Jennifer Hudson Taylor’s Scottish Medieval romance, Highland Blessings, by Abingdon Press.

Highland Blessings is set in 1473. Now some may say this is too late in history for a Medieval novel, but the simple fact is, while the Renaissance began in Italy in the 1400s or even earlier, it took much longer to reach other parts of Europe, particularly the Scottish Highlands. All of the cultural elements we associate with the Middle Ages, stone castles, armor, flying pennants, are still firmly in place at this time. Add to that plaids, clan lairds and feuds, and the stage is set for a fun story similar those written by CBA author Kathleen Morgan.

Akira MacKenzie is kidnapped on what should be her wedding day by Bryce MacPherson to keep a promise he made to his dying father, in hopes of settling a long-standing fued between their two clans. He wishes for Akira to wed his brother Evan, Laird of the MacPherson’s, but when Evan is killed, the plan changes.

At first Akira is crushed to be abandoned by her family into the hands of the MacPhersons who detest her, but quickly comes to realize that they are not so different, and begins to suspect that this may have been God’s plan all along. However, Akira and Bryce both have many obstacles to overcome to achieve peace between their clans and trust between one another.

While I felt this story had some small technical issues, overall I enjoyed it very much. By far, my favorite element of this book was the spiritual aspect. Akira is truly a woman of God to be admired. She puts aside hurt and unforgiveness in order to submit herself to God’s plan. In addition, she is open to the spirit of God and known for her prophetic dreams. She speaks them forth boldly despite the danger of being thought a witch in her superstitious culture.

Congratulations to Jennifer Hudson Taylor on her debut novel. Here’s to hoping this is just the start for her career and for Medievals in general. It’s time the market took notice of this exciting and underrepresented time in history.

Take a Trip to the Medieval Period with Seasons in the Mist

 I've spent the last two weeks traveling. Fictional traveling that is. My favorite kind. No layovers. No leg cramps. No time changes. No gastrointestinal disorders. Thanks to the creative mind of novelist Deb Kinnard, I've been enjoying a fanciful trip through the Middle Ages. And I had a top-notch tourguide, 21st century medieval historian, Bethany Lindstrom. So I just had to invite Deb to come and talk more about my favorite time in history.

Here's the basic idea: stranded in 1353 cornwall, American graduate student Bethany Lindstrom knows she must find a way back to her own time or face a life of falsehoods and peril. But with the stern overlord Sir Michael Veryan, she is swept into the intrigues of King Edward's court, which will test their mettle and their faith in God to the limits -- and forever bind their lives together.

Welcome, Deb.  First of all let me ask, why do you write historical novels?

LOL, I suppose for the same reason Sir Edmund climbed Everest--"because it's there." I'm fascinated by the middle ages and have been since I was a teenager, so it seems natural to try to tell some of their stories.

You have also written contemporary novels. What is different about the experience?

Research, mostly. Some facts we take for granted when writing present-day characters and stories are more difficult to get to, when writing in another era. For example, when were forks first used? How did medieval physicians and herbalists use the plants they knew as healing? All sorts of things. The answers are not always easy to find, but always fun to dig into.

I couldn't agree more. Seasons in the Mist is a time travel novel. That fascinates me. I love time travel novels, but I think I would be afraid to tackle one. How did you make this work for a Christian book?

I felt at first that I must "explain" time travel in a Christian context. Then as I got deeper into the story, I realized that some questions, for us in real life as well as for my characters, are unanswered and it's His best judgment for us that they remain so. My hero asks why so many died in the pestilence--this is an answer my 21st century character doesn't have, and I don't have my characters "solve" the question. So it is with time travel. They agree that God is sovereign and He does many things we puny humans cannot comprehend. They leave it at that.

And I admit, you made it work well. I think the smartest thing you did was making the main character a medieval historian. That was a really nice touch. But why did you choose this period?

Because I know it best and love it best. I've written a Regency romance, but better not ask about that one. It stinks, big-time. I don't know the period well enough, and that book remains forever in the bottom drawer.

It's obvious that you really have a grasp on this time. I admire that. For me, it was sort of the opposite, I knew a little about it, but I wanted to learn more. Probably what drew me to it the most, was that I was interested in learning about life before the Reformation. Tell us about the spiritual climate of this time period.

It was an era in England when virtually everyone believed. Imagine, if you can, an age in which reverence and fear of God was universally understood. People in England were either Christian or Jewish. There were few if any who did not know God. Contrast that with the age we live in -- the only answer is "whew!" Granted, some "believers" were nominal and some in their hearts had secretly fallen away. But virtually all people were part of the church and expected to follow the Lord.

Yes, one of the subjects I deal with in my writing is the differences between nominal Christians, corrupt elements in the "church," and true heart felt believers. I discovered that many during this era had instensely personal relationships with Christ. Can you share any interesting or off-beat facts you discovered about this era?

I had to dig quite deeply simply to discover what language they spoke. Did the upper classes speak French? English? How much French did the middle and lower sort of folk understand? Since this was a transitional age, linguistically, those answers were surprisingly difficult to find. I settled with my characters speaking English, with an occasional French or Cornish phrase thrown in, and I think it works.

I found that interesting. I think having a 21st Century protagonist narrating allowed you to dig deeper into the language than I did. I just sort of treated Middle English like a foreign language, but having Bethany there to translate and give us a break with her contemporary thoughts was a big help. I chuckled when she described one of the characters as a surfer dude. Does the book have any themes or messages inspired specifically by this time period?

First and foremost it's a love story, so I didn't intentionally go for deeper truths. However, Bethany is a believer who has left God behind, and I think one of the reasons she must travel in time is to rediscover the bright fire of faith. The reader, I hope, will get the idea that God is infinitely creative about bringing His children to Himself, and loses no opportunity to call us back!

Amazing concept Deb. I think our Inkwell audience will enjoy this trip back in time as much as I did. Thanks so much for visiting with us today.

* Deborah Kinnard started writing at age ten, frustrated because there was no preteen girl with a horse on Bonanza. She earned two degrees in health care and has enjoyed a career that encompasses Spanish translation, volunteer work at a crisis line, years in assorted ERs, and a day job at a big Chicago teaching hospital. Deb keeps busy with reading, playing the guitar, participating in a church outreach team, and skiing in the winter.

You can order Seasons in the Mist at http://amazon.com/ or http://cbd.com/

The Captain's Lady by Louise M. Gouge

My first impression upon picking up The Captain’s Lady by Louise M. Gouge was one of elegance. From the sophisticated cover, to the rich time period filled with elegant silks and powdered whigs, to the graceful writing style ringing of merry old England, everything about this novel bespoke culture and refinement. Steeple Hill Love Inspired Historicals are breaking out of the mold of prairie romances and westerns to explore interesting times and places that are sure to please. This book will easily hold its own among the finest historicals being produced today for the CBA market.

The novel opens in the exquisite London home of Lady Marianne Moberly, daughter of Lord Bennington, during the time of the American Revolution. When Captain Jamie Templeton returns from the colonies for a visit, she is sure they will find a way to marry and be together despite their class differences. However, Lady Marianne has no idea that Captain Templeton has actually been sent by revolutionary forces to spy on her father in hopes of gaining government secrets.

The Captain’s Lady offers adventure, romance, and intrigue. Amidst all of that, it is layered with rich subplots and well-rounded minor characters. The book is a spin off from Ms. Gouge’s first Love Inspired Historical, Love Thine Enemy. While it works well as a stand-alone novel, the reader can also feel the depth of understanding for the connections between the many characters, locations, and situations that comes from an author creating an entire world in which a long-running series can take place. Just beneath the surface of this adventurous romance, lies the sense of an ongoing family saga that provides additional power to the story.

The conflicts in this book are organic to the plot. The tension never feels contrived or forced. The plot itself is well paced and resolves beautifully while still leaving possibilities for future spin offs. In addition to all of these merits, the book has a lovely spiritual tone. The hero and heroine are both true heart-felt believers longing to serve God, yet pulled apart by divided loyalties. In the midst of this, they seek God’s plans day by day and find opportunities to reach out and bless others despite their own crises.

This book is not just for Steeple Hill readers. I think any lover of romances or historicals will enjoy it immensely. The quality of this book is unquestionable. I give it a very high recommendation. Louise M. Gouge has found a new fan.

The Raven Saint by MaryLu Tyndall

MaryLu Tyndall has done it again. The Raven Saint is yet another awesome pirate romance. Fun and adventure on the high seas.

This is the third book of Mary Lu’s Charles Town Belles series. It features a whole different sort of heroine. Grace Westcott is as uptight and prudish as Hope was flighty and sin-ridden and Faith was proud and driven. What a study in contrasts. And as you may imagine, Grace has much to learn in order to overcome her judgmental and legalistic attitude if she is ever going to come to grips with her feelings for the roguish pirate with a heart of gold, Rafe Dubois.

The story opens as Rafe kidnaps Grace in order to sell her to a Spanish don in the Caribbean. Although we quickly come to suspect that Rafe may have some worthy motives hidden behind his abominable actions, Hope has no way of knowing this. The hero and heroine prove an entertaining and often comical contrast. As for Grace, she does her best to find God’s plan in this terrifying situation, and strives to evangelize the pirates around her, but her methods leave much to be desired. All this occurs in the first few chapters and sets the stage for a rollicking adventure.

As usual, MaryLu provides great characters, stunning backdrops, comedy, heart-stopping romance, and plenty of excitement along with strong spiritual messages. For this book she also offers a fun cast of minor characters including Nicole, the charitable prostitute, Father Alers, the backslidden pirate priest, and Annette, a mixed-race slave girl. Annette especially caught my attention. She is bitter from being rejected by both the whites and blacks. For this reason, she delves into ancient ritualistic religion, bringing an interesting dark spiritual contrast to this otherwise light and uplifting book and supplying unexpected scope and depth. I applaud MaryLu for tackling some tough subjects, as Grace is challenged at every turn to examine her motives, her heart, and the nature of true Christianity.

This book concludes the Charleston Belles series with a rousing happily-ever-after and the reunion of the seafaring sisters. If you love romance, history, and pirates, you simply must read it!

To see my review of Blue Enchantress go to: http://awesomeinspirationals.blogspot.com/2009/08/blue-enchantress-review.html

A Stray Drop of Blood by Roseanna White

A Stray Drop of Blood by Roseanna White is a novel of epic proportions that blew me away. It beautifully wove together rich history, complex characters, deep spiritual content, romance, and a mesmerizing story all in an edgy and artistic package. This book is reminiscent of the highly acclaimed Mark of the Lion trilogy by Francine Rivers, yet takes its own unique twists and turns through the Roman Empire and the lives of the early Christians.

Abigail is a dangerously beautiful Hebrew slave girl living in the days of Jesus and the early church. However, she is no typical slave. She is raised and educated as a daughter of the Visibullis house, until the son Jason, a Roman centurion returns home to Jerusalem. Jason has been lured into the sinful lifestyle of the Romans and sees Abigail as a possession to be taken at will.

The story quickly enters deep waters when Abigail struggles through the emotional turmoil of being forced into the bed of the young, handsome, and charming Jason Visibillus. She is torn between guilt, resentment, and her own very natural desires for this man who grows to love her. And this is only the beginning of the tale. Abigail will continue on through many trials, heartaches, journeys, and even a personal encounter with the crucifixion.

This story delves deep into sin and the psychological consequences it creates. The author does not shy away from the dark realities of life. Instead she juxtaposes this darkness with the light of Jesus and the power of His shed blood in a way that is almost palpable and that touched me to the core.

I loved the way author contrasted Greek and Roman philosophy and mythology with Hebrew theology. It has been a long time since I have found a novel this mentally stimulating.

While this is far from the standard genre romance, fans of romantic fiction will enjoy this book for its elaborate look at love in all its many and complicated facets. This story provides plenty of passion and the happily-ever-after romance readers desire.

A Stray Drop of Blood is an excellent example of the benefits of small press publishing. Roseanna was able to break many of the “rules” confining CBA fiction and create something unique, powerful, and memorable. In addition, this book is much longer than the standard CBA historical novel, allowing it the epic scope I so appreciated.

I could go on all day about the elements of this book that I adored. Suffice to say that I give it my highest possible recommendation. This is a story that will stay with me for many years to come.

What do you think about typical Christian books? Would you prefer to read edgier and more artistic Christian fiction?

The Country House Courtship by Linore Rose Burkard

I write this review from a different sort of perspective. Books by Linore Rose Burkard are often touted as, “Inspirational Romance for the Jane Austen soul.” Now if you love Jane Austen, chances are you’ve already discovered Linore and her wonderful books based on that glowing recommendation. But I must confess. It scared me away. I don’t hate Jane Austen. In fact, I love the Regency time period with its elegant fashions, English countryside, and London balls. I quite enjoy any movie based on a Jane Austen novel. And, I do think the books are worth reading for educational purposes. But…I feel like I’m slogging through the formal convoluted language every time I pick one up. I must admit, I have yet to make it to the end of a Jane Austen novel.

For me, pleasure reading they are not.

So it was with some trepidation that began the advanced copy of The Country House Courtship sent to me for this review. By the time I reached the second chapter, I was able to breathe a sigh of relief because I found myself enjoying the book enormously. The language rings of Jane Austen, yet is much friendlier to the modern reader. The omniscient viewpoint made me feel like I was sitting with a friend as they told me a tale and proved a pleasant change from the norm.

I’ve been steeping myself in Christian novels for the last two years. There are a lot of new stylistic rules Christian writers are supposed to follow. For the most part these rules are good, but after reading 50 or so, they become too predictable. By adopting the style of Jane Austen, Linore Rose Burkard offers a refreshing new voice to the CBA market.

Of course this also brings to mind the fact that I was recently taught at a novelist retreat that contemporary authors should never read the classics. Writing has continued developing and growing and has become stronger with time. Reading the classics will cause you to write in a way that is obsolete. Clearly the teacher who said this took an extreme attitude (and trust me, as a former literature instructor I gave him an earful), but he also had a point.

In The Country House Courtship Linore combines the best elements of Regency fiction with the best elements of contemporary writing to delightful effect. I would call these books “Jane Austen Lite,” and I mean that in the best sort of way. There is no slogging or trudging through this book. Readers can enjoy a wonderful Regency style novel that is friendly to a modern day audience.

Beatrice Forsythe is certain her older sister’s marriage to a wealthy member of the ton will secure her own prosperous future. She dreams of going to London for her first season and meeting a handsome man of good fortune. She insists that marriage should be undertaken for practical considerations until she runs into an old acquaintance, Mr. Peter O’Brien.

At age twelve, Beatrice had impetuously promised to marry Mr. O’Brien after her sister broke his heart. Now, she is faced with him once again at Mr. Mornay’s country manor, where he is applying to be the vicar. While she finds him undeniably attractive and honorable, she is more drawn to the fashionable and wealthy Mr. Barton, a new neighbor to Mr. Mornay. He is the sort of man she has always desired to wed.

The author provides plenty of interesting twists and turns as Beatrice must learn what truly matters in life. The book provides insight into human nature and relationships, as well as into man’s relationship with God.

So of course, I highly recommend this book to Jane Austen fans. However, I think anyone who enjoys romance or historical fiction will love this book as well. Great job, Linore. You’ve won me over to this style.

What about the rest of you? Do you love Jane Austen or does she scare you away? Do you have a favorite Jane Austen book or movie?

Books that Move Me

This week I've been pondering the question, "What does it take for a book to truly move me?" I've noticed recently that my motivations for reading might not be typical. Evidently many readers choose books that are comforting and familiar, or go to the other extreme for books that thrill and excite. The typical reader engages a book wanting to "worry" about the main character, knowing that they can expect their "happily ever after" in the end.

I can't say that any of these motivations appeal to me. I read for entirely different reasons. Of course I hope to be entertained, but I also want far more. I long to be moved and changed and shattered in a good way. So again I ask, "What does it take for a book to truly move me?"

1) Take me to a new time or place and introduce me to unexpected characters.
2) Allow me a peek into a person's soul.
3) Let me take a journey with that person.
4) Give me beauty and art that will uplift my soul.
5) Teach me something I didn't already know.
6) Cause me to walk away from that journey with a deeper understanding of God and mankind.

This week I read just such a book, Love's Pursuit, by Siri Mitchell. I first discovered Siri a few years back when I read her comic romance, Kissing Adrien. The book took place in Paris and offered a wonderfully fresh perspective on God and Christianity in a light-hearted way that left me delighted. However, Love's Pursuit, goes to whole new depths.

First the book travels to the little known world of the New England Puritans. I loved this world already from reading Hawthorne. I hoped that Siri would follow up on some of his themes, and she did not disappoint. Once immersed in Siri's fictional world, I met Susannah Phillips, a well-respected and religious young woman, who knows that deep down her soul is dark. She can never live up to the impossibly high standards of her community, no matter how hard she tries. Next comes the intriguing supporting character of Small-hope Smyth, a longtime abuse victim who has been rescued by marriage to a kind man, but still suffers the aftermath of the unimaginable horrors of her childhood. Finally comes handsome Captain Daniel Holcombe, a breath of fresh air from the outside world despite his own troubled past.

Each of these characters give the readers refreshingly honest glimpses into their souls. Siri also wrote with the degree of artistry and excellence that I so crave.

The journey undertaken along with these characters is insightful, romantic, and troubling all at once. As I suspected, the Puritans did not create the utopia they anticipated, but rather a nightmare of rules, conventions, and expectations. A world in which work and stoicism are all that matters, and abuses are overlooked. A world where beauty is most often supressed, and where joy is margainalized.

I learned much about this world, from a deep spiritual perspective to interesting cultural details such as the passing of leaven from generation to generation, weekly nitpickings, and the rearing of unnamed children.

More than any of these factors, though, I was stunned by the new insight I received into the nature and wonder of God. I would have sworn before reading this book that I knew all I could about God's grace, and yet witnessing it through the eyes of Susannah and Small-Hope gave me an even richer understanding, leaving me breathless and in tears.

And did this book have the well-loved happily ever after. I will give you fair warning. No, it didn't. Yet the ending was perfect, and I wouldn't have changed a word.

I count Siri Mitchell as a friend, and I am so thankful that God has brought her into my life.