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  • When I heard about Laurie Christine's Dragon Slayer Bible series, I was so excited. I mean, Bible stories retold as fantasy elements? Listen in and learn what happens with Seth, the third named son of Adam and Eve goes on a quest to find out more about this Chosen One and how to defeat this dragon.

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    My brain is going into over-drive as I consider all the things that Laurie Christine could do with this series. The lineage of Christ's stories told as fantasy as the world falls further from Eden and needs their Savior more each day. All in a world of beasts and dragons and... Oh, my! Buckle up, it's going to be a great ride... um, read!

    And Christmas is coming, so if you've got a kid on your list who has "everything," I bet this is something he didn't know he wanted or something she didn't know she needed.

    Garden of Mysteries by Laurie Christine

    An ancient curse. An invisible dragon. A mysterious prophecy.

    Seth’s parents have secrets they won’t share with him. Why did the King kick them out of the garden and curse the land? And can the curse be broken? Finding answers to Seth’s questions will prove more dangerous than he imagined. Can he discover the truth before the dragon destroys him?

    Frank Peretti meets The Jesus Storybook Bible in this action-packed biblical fiction story that will inspire readers to identify lies of the dragon and to put their trust in the dragon slayer.

    Seth's story takes place in a post-fall world where ferocious beasts lurk in the darkness and thorns and thistles cover the land. When Seth learns of an ancient prophecy about the Chosen One, he sets off on a quest to find the one who will break the curse. But the evil dragon also has a mission—to deceive Seth and turn his heart from the King.

    On his quest for truth, Seth learns what it means to trust the King and to resist the lies of the evil dragon.

    Learn more about Laure on her WEBSITE or at Dragonslayerbible.com and follow her on GoodReads.

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  • When I heard about Karen Witemeyer doing fairy tales in 19th-century Texas, I knew this would be genius. But when I heard about Cloaked in Beauty, a mashup of Little Red Riding Hood and Sleeping Beauty, her genius took on new proportions. Listen in to see why.

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    A girl with a fortune and someone eager to kill her to get it? That might sound familiar, but nope... Witemeyer has taken a whole new take on both fairy tales, and I love it. EEEP!

    Not only that, but we're looking at at least one more book--based on Beauty and the Beast.

    And... we got a sneak peek at her next series... The Secret Society of Spinsters. Is that not the most genius idea ever? I can't wait!

    Cloaked in Beauty by Karen Witemeyer

    In the heart of the Piney Woods of Texas, Letty Hood has spent the last fifteen years of her life hidden away with her grandmother to escape the deadly schemes of an uncle who wants her dead. Now, with her twenty-first birthday on the horizon, she is forced to accept the escort of a stranger and return to Houston in secret so she can claim a birthright that will make her one of the wealthiest women in Texas. If she lives long enough to inherit.

    Pinkerton agent Philip Carmichael has one duty: get the Radcliffe heiress home alive. Expecting a spoiled girl, Philip is surprised to encounter a woman of rare strength with a kind soul and keen wit. As they journey together, Letty's resilience wins his admiration, breaking through his hardened cynicism. Yet the threat to Letty grows more menacing with every mile, and Philip fears that keeping her out of harm's way may be just as impossible as keeping her out of his heart.

    "Little Red Riding Hood" and "Sleeping Beauty" entwine for a romantic fairy tale retelling that explores the power of true love conquering even the darkest of nights.

    You can learn more about Karen Witemeyer and her books on her WEBSITE. Don't forget the book is 40% off with FREE US shipping until 12/16/24 on BakerBookHouse.com.

    Follow Karen on BookBub and GoodReads.

    And don't forget her Posse Group on Facebook.

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  • Beloved Biblical and historical fiction author, Tessa Afshar has a new series beginning, and wow! Persian history comes to life as we get to know Roxannah and how she became not only a cook in Queen Esther's house but also... the queen's friend! Listen in to learn more.

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    This new series focuses on fictional women who could have interacted with Queen Esther and even has "excerpts from the queen's journals" which is a really cool way for readers to get to see Persian culture of the time through a lens that Esther could have had.

    I don't know about you, but I'm already looking forward to the next book. #BecausePottery!

    The Queen's Cook by Tessa Afshar

    In the heart of ancient Persia, the empire's Jewish citizens face an ominous edict that threatens their very existence. Roxannah, the daughter of an impoverished Persian lord, is devastated by the news but feels helpless to come to the aid of her Jewish friends. Desperate to support her family, Roxannah approaches the royal physician, Adin--the man whose kind eyes haunt her--and seeks his help to find employment in Queen Esther's kitchens.

    In the opulent palace of Susa, Roxannah tries to survive the spiteful ploys of the other cooks as she ascends through the ranks. Her loyalty earns her the trust and friendship of Queen Esther, who is navigating dangerous politics with wisdom and grace. When Roxannah and Adin uncover a sinister plot against Amestris, the king's most powerful wife and Esther's archenemy, they find themselves tasked with the impossible job of discovering the culprit. As secrets unravel and alliances are tested, the fate of Esther's reign hangs in the balance.

    Learn more about Tessa on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

    Don't miss the book at 30% off with FREE shipping from BakerBookHouse.com.

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  • Author of historical, Amish, and contemporary women's fiction, Suzanne Woods Fisher has moved from Cape Cod and ice cream to the South and flowers. Listen in to learn what you'll find in this new series of novellas (all available in one book!)

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    "Flowers are in the business of happiness."

    Isn't that the most delightful picture? If that doesn't make you want to read more about flowers, nothing will. And then there's... Capture the Moment-- a national park series coming in MAY!

    A Year of Flowers by Suzanne Woods Fisher

    In this collection of four heartfelt novellas, three former friends have found success in the floral industry, but happiness--and love--remain elusive.

    In An Apology in Bloom, wedding florist Jaime Harper is on a meteoric rise, working for an event company led by a successful and way-too-handsome boss. When a letter arrives from her past mentor with an offer too good to pass up, will she stay or head back to her hometown?

    In A Bouquet of Dreams, Claire Murphy has always dreamed of owning a flower shop, and when her employers hint at retirement, she believes her moment has arrived. But first she must confront her past--and the man who caused her to flee her hometown years ago.

    In A Field of Beauty, Tessa Anderson has found an acre of farmland to start her flower farm and forget the past. She's grateful for the help of two men--her boyfriend, Tyler, and a quiet soil specialist named Dawson. But as the farm finally starts to bloom, Tessa will discover something that challenges everything she's built.

    In A Future in Blossom, Jaime, Claire, and Tessa return to their hometown, finally ready to face each other and their beloved mentor, flower shop owner Rose Reid. As they unite to pull off an extraordinary wedding, amid the flurry of preparations they just may find their way to forgiveness.

    Don't forget that the book is 30% off at BakerBookHouse.com

    And don't forget the fall bundle deal! It sounds AMAZING! You can get that HERE.

    You can learn more about Suzanne from her WEBSITE. Also, follow her on BookBub and GoodReads.

    Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at:

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  • Always ready with a variety of excellent new books for us, Roseanna M. White has two recent releases-- An Honorable Disguise and of course, Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor. Listen in to learn more about these two books and the ones coming next year!

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    I couldn't imagine what on earth would possess someone to call their home, "Sugar Plum Manor," but of course, Roseanna managed to pull that off beautifully.

    With a Nutcracker-inspired story, added to a bit of Tchaikovsky influence, what more could you ask for at Christmas?

    But she also just released her third Imposters book with An Honorable Deception. It's time to get Yates' story, and boy, you don't want to miss out on this one!

    Finally, this July, Roseanna moves into WWII territory with The Collector of Burned Books. If you haven't seen this cover, you MUST. It's stunning, and the story behind it... sign me up!

    Christmas at Sugarplum Manor by Roseanna M. White

    The Nutcracker and Edwardian-Era England combine to weave a magical tale of love and friendship at Christmastime.

    As the beloved stepdaughter of the Earl of Castleton, Lady Mariah Lyons cherishes her home at Plumford Manor, but her idyllic world will be threatened when the estate passes to Cyril Lightbourne, a childhood friend she hasn't seen or heard from in years. Once, Mariah dreamed their friendship would kindle into something more, but that was before she heard Cyril was courting the cruelhearted Lady Pearl. Now Mariah is willing to welcome him as a friend and pray he will be the heir her stepfather needs, but she'll keep her heart locked safely away from anyone with such poor taste.

    Cyril Lightbourne has long avoided returning to Plumford Manor, yet he reluctantly arrives in time for Christmas. When his friendship with Lady Mariah reignites, he finds himself caught between his affection for her and her family's misunderstanding of his attachment to Lady Pearl. Then, more trouble arrives in the form of a Danish lord on a mission to win Mariah's hand by Christmas. Will the magic of the holiday season help lead to the discovery of true love, or will duty to country leave all longing for what could have been?

    Learn more about Roseanna M. White on her WEBSITE (with all the bookish merch) and follow her on BookBub and GoodReads.

    Don't forget that you can still get Christmas at Sugarplum Manor for 30% off with FREE US shipping from Bakerbookhouse.com

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  • The queen of research questions that freak out the experts, Patricia Bradley is back with the final book in the Pearl River series. Listen in and learn what happens in this book and where she's taking us next!

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    Revenge, second chances at a first chance, and a story that hits close to home with our present political climate (and all before it was a thing!), Bradley has a lot going on in this book.

    And... after this, she gave us a hint. We're going back to Logan Point--the setting of her first series!

    Deadly Revenge by Patricia Bradley

    Deputy Jenna Hart has only been working in her sleepy hometown of Pearl Springs for seven months when city officials begin to be targeted by a killer. Twenty years ago, the construction of a dam caused people to lose their land to eminent domain. That wound has not healed with time, and someone bearing a grudge is clearly set on revenge. With the former mayor of Pearl Springs now running for the US Senate, Jenna will have to call in backup to ensure his protection.

    That's where Agent Maxwell Anderson comes in. He and Jenna used to work together in the Chattanooga Police Department, and there was even a smoldering fire of attraction. Now they team up to track down the killer before a big political rally that promises to bring not only the former mayor into the crosshairs but hundreds of civilians as well.

    As the sparks of romance reignite and the threads of the investigation get tangled when another suspect comes into play, Jenna and Max will have to draw on all of their skills to stay alive and prevent the wave of disaster poised to hit the community of Pearl Springs. The question is, can either of them fully trust that the other has their back?

    Learn more about Patricia and her books at PTBradley.com and PatriciaBradleyBooks.com! Don't forget to follow her on BookBub and GoodReads.

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  • Beloved author Robin Jones Gunn is back with another fabulous friendship series. This time, different friends are going off on once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Listen in to see what tea has to do with elephants... and friends.

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    So far it's a three-book series. We NEED more books so read, review, and beg the publisher for more FRIENDSHIP books.

    Tea with Elephants by Robin Jones Gunn

    Ever since they met as teenagers volunteering at a conference center in Costa Rica 20 years ago, Fern Espinoza and Lily Graden have shared a close friendship, even though they live in different states. They can hardly believe it when their teen dream of traveling to Africa together becomes a reality. It's the trip of a lifetime--but life sure isn't what they thought it would be back when they were young.

    Along with their suitcases, each woman brings along emotional baggage that weighs heavily on them. Yet the people they meet and the places they experience have the power to change their hearts--but only if they surrender to the lessons God wants to teach them in this unexpected land of emerald tea fields, graceful giraffes, and rambunctious elephants.

    Pack your bags and get ready for adventure as Robin Jones Gunn invites you on a safari of the heart in this vulnerable exploration of how to move forward in faith even when the future is uncertain.

    Don't forget 30% off with Free US shipping at BakerBookHouse.com

    Learn more about Robin on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

    Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at:

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  • Readers who fell in love with Adelaide in All My Secrets will be excited to read this Christmas novella, Waiting for Christmas. Listen in and see why this book has all the vibes of beloved Christmas classics.

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    I love Christmas, and Gilde-Age stories with their strong contrasts between the wealthy and poverty-stricken offers great fodder for stories, but add in a bit of "fish-out-of-water" and a little mystery, and you've got the makings of a fabulous story.

    Waiting for Christmas by Lynn Austin

    In this hope-filled Gilded Age Christmas novella from bestselling author Lynn Austin, the year is 1901 and the hustle and bustle of the holidays is descending on New York’s Fifth Avenue.

    For the first time in her privileged life, Adelaide Forsythe won’t be swept up in it. She couldn’t be happier about the prospect of a quieter Christmas. That’s not to say her transition from Miss to Mrs. has been without challenge. Though she doesn’t regret marrying for love instead of wealth, she can barely light the hearth or cook more than burnt toast. She feels woefully unprepared to run her own household.

    Then, on the first Sunday of Advent, winter winds bring change through two unlikely means: a young orphan boy, hiding near Adelaide’s front steps, and a seasoned housekeeper who seems too good to be true.

    The boy, Jack, claims he isn’t an orphan at all and is desperate to reunite his family. Adelaide and her husband Howard work tirelessly to solve the riddle of Jack’s story, while Adelaide’s new endeavors open her eyes to a world beyond her past experience—and all the challenge and possibility it holds. As Christmas approaches, small glimmers of wonder light the way toward the answers Adaleide seeks and the most miraculous gift of all.

    The novella length of this delightful work of Christmas fiction about the true meaning of Christmas makes this a great stocking stuffer or host/hostess gift Beautiful hardcover, giftable size Great companion to All My Secrets by Lynn Austin Includes discussion questions for book clubs

    Learn more about Lynn Austin on her website. And don't forget to follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

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  • College in Ireland? Sign me up! Colleen Marie has a fabulous new series with all things Irish and horses. Listen in to learn more.

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    I haven't read a lot of new adult fiction, but Teagan's Treasure is definitely going on my list. I love the idea of a mystery combined with all things horses and Ireland! Woot!

    Teagan's Treasure by Colleen Marie

    Teagan O'Reilly has one goal upon graduation to be accepted into Emerald Isle University's Science Research Internship and spend the summer in Ireland competing for a spot in the university's coveted research program. When her acceptance letter finally arrives, Teagan is more determined than ever to win a spot into the program. She's prepared for everything until she learns her partner is none other than Finn Connolly, her first love and the boy who broke her heart.

    Past feelings reignite as Teagan and Finn travel to Brigid's Crossing in the small town of Cloverdale, Ireland, to begin their internship. Their research project quickly comes to life on the Kavanaghs' horse farm, bringing new life to the farm and Teagan's dreams.

    Teagan soon discovers that the farm is in financial trouble, jeopardizing her meticulously planned research, and needs a miracle to be saved. The rolling hills of the Irish countryside are hiding a secret, and the answer may lie in the legendary tale of the missing Kildare Emerald. When a plot to steal the emerald from the Kavanaghs' land is uncovered, the safety of farm and the chance at the research position lies in the balance.

    As time begins to run out, Teagan is torn between winning the research position and helping the Kavanaghs save the farm. Teagan is forced to decide where her heart lies, but will her choice make her lose everything she's always dreamed of, or will she gain more than she ever imagined?

    Also don't forget about her YA romance, Sadie's Star.

    Learn more about Colleen on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads.

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  • When I say Mesu Andrews is Brave to tackle the subject of David's wives (at least the first six of 'em), I'm not being "punny." That said, she is! As hard as it is to see beloved Bible heroes doing stupid things, firmly convinced it's "of the Lord" when... really? How often do we do the same thing? Listen in to learn why she wrote David and his first two wives the way she did.

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    Tackling the first two wives might be hard enough, but seeing how David might have loved both?

    And if you read the synopsis, you get the hint that David's first wife already had trust in relationships issues. Bring on wife #2??? WHAT?

    With her unwavering dedication to digging out Biblical truth, Mesu Andrews plows into the hard stories that shape the life of the "man after God's own heart."

    Brave by Mesu Andrews

    In the tumultuous world of ancient Israel, Ahinoam--a dagger-wielding Kenite woman--flees her family farm with her unconventional father to join the ragtag band of misfits led by the shepherd-turned-warrior David ben Jesse. As King Saul's treasonous accusations echo through the land, Ahinoam's conviction that David's anointing makes him Yahweh's chosen king propels her on a perilous journey to Moab and back into Judah's unforgiving wilderness, only to encounter more hardship and betrayal.

    Amid the challenges, Ahinoam forges an unexpected bond with David's sister and gains respect among David's army through her knowledge of Kenite metalworking. Though some offer friendship, Ahinoam, scarred by past relationships, isolates to avoid more pain and refuses to acknowledge her growing feelings for the renegade king. As Ahinoam's heart grapples for footing, King Saul's army closes in, and Ahinoam must confront the true meaning of love, loyalty, and courage. Is she brave enough to trust new friends and love Israel's next king?

    You can learn more about Mesu Andrews at her WEBSITE, sign up for her newsletter HERE. and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

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  • One little boy's dream becomes a sister's determination in this beautiful historical romance. Listen in as Amanda Cabot talks about her Sweetwater Crossing Christmas Novella, One Special Christmas.

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    Readers couldn't get enough of Sweetwater Crossing, and Amanda didn't disappoint. Drawing new characters into familiar scenes, she gives us a beautiful look at new hope and joy at Christmastime.

    One Special Christmas by Amanda Cabot

    It will take a miracle to salvage her dreams, but Christmas is the season of miracles, isn't it?

    Fearing this may be her young brother's last Christmas, Greta Engel is determined to make Otto's dream of spending it at the foot of Pikes Peak come true. She'll do anything, even selling a priceless family heirloom, to get them away from Houston and the man who threatened both of them. But the trip to the fabled mountain is more arduous than she'd anticipated and a crisis leaves them stranded in the Texas Hill Country.

    Even though it's only a temporary stay, Greta finds much to like about Sweetwater Crossing, including the opportunity to manage the town's tearoom. And then there's Matt Nelson, the all too handsome man who's running for sheriff. She wants to trust him when he proposes they serve as chaperones to help his brother win the woman of his dreams, but what if she's making a mistake like the one she did in Houston? What if the rumors are right and there's more to Matt's request than he's admitted?

    Greta's head tells her she and Matt can be nothing more than friends, but her heart has other ideas.

    Learn more about Amanda on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

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  • Christian fantasy takes a new twist in Trail to the Lonely Tree. I chatted with Kurt Mahler about his series recently--all the way from the other side of the world. Listen in and see what he did with a story about animals remembering the names that Adam gave them... and what that means!

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    I love the idea of animals remembering the names Adam gave them--and how that would affect mankind. And taking place in Texas? Yes, please!

    A totally new fantasy idea is perfect for book lovers in your life, so don't forget about them for the upcoming holidays.

    The Trail to the Lonely Tree by Kurt Frederick Mahler

    Friendship, courage, and destiny meet in this whimsical magic realism journey.

    Oracle, a jaguar from the Yucatán, arrives in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas because a lost monarch butterfly tells him the story of the last jaguar there. Oracle remembers Eden and the original word Adam spoke to the first of his kind, but others in the Valley have forgotten their names—including Man himself. Oracle begins his quest of restoring the Valley from the perils of loss while searching for the Lonely Tree, the location of the prophetic prayer of the last jaguar from seventy years before. But the path to the Lonely Tree is part of the realm of Man and riddled with “ironthorn” fences. Can Oracle help the animals remember their names given by Adam? Will he become the new Lord of the Valley in answer to the last jaguar’s prayer?

    This poetic and hopeful tale about the mystical jaguar Oracle will stay in readers’ hearts even after the last page and provide clues for navigating life's complexities.

    Learn more about him on his WEBSITE.

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  • Feel like kids need a picture of what Spiritual warfare looks like? R.M. Ruiz shows it in this family saga of missions from God to thwart evil beings and how He prepares them for it. Listen in to learn what's up in Iowa!

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    The cornfields of Iowa may not seem like a place for battle, but don't tell the Chosen Kids that! Amid dealing with troublesome monsters, they also have to work through their own relationships in the process.

    Ruiz has such a heart for children and what they read as well as an obvious love of the Lord and His word.

    Encounter at Ambrose by R.M. Ruiz

    SOMETHING IS LURKING IN IOWA...

    For their third mission, the Chosen Kids find themselves in the Corn State where an evil being carries out a sinister scheme. The family tracks down the creature right away. But when they can’t get close enough to identify the species or figure out its plan, they devise a risky strategy. The day goes from bad to worse when someone calls the cops. Are the kids in over their heads?

    Caiden teams up with big brother Caleb to save the mission. But if things go wrong, is it wise to have a known bully by his side? After a wild ride of shenanigans and mishaps, the siblings make an important discovery. Will they follow the Holy Spirit’s guidance or take their own path?

    When the Chosen Kids set their trap—in the last place Caiden wants to be at nightfall— they may have overlooked one key detail.

    Encounter at Ambrose came out on September

    Don't miss the story of book two and the icy slopes in Episode 234

    Learn more about the series, the characters, and Rosemary at TheChosenKids.com and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

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  • When I read about this anthology and the group that sponsored it, I couldn't contain my excitement. Jenny Gossell signed up for the dream school for aspiring young authors and this anthology shows just how brilliant the program is. Listen in to learn more about her, her book, and the school that helped produce it!

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    I feel like this college alternative is a brilliant idea, and boy do I wish I could have had that opportunity. That said, however, the anthology itself contains a bunch of stories that will appeal to a variety of people.

    Jenny says most fall in the realm of some sort of spec-fic, but... there is a contemporary as well.

    Voices of The Future: Stories of Family and Fearlessness by Multiple Authors

    Discover the next generation of storytellers…
    This inaugural edition of Voices of the Future weaves together short stories of family and fearlessness in a memorable and heartwarming collection. Experience the next generation’s creativity and vision through tales of hope and belonging from rising young creatives.

    Olivia G. Booms “A Book Dragon’s Story”

    Jenny Chasteen “People of the Rain”

    Rachel Elizabeth “Fairies in the Garden”

    Hope Jian “Shattered Echoes”

    Cara Peregrino “The Penny Dragon”

    Madigan Thompson “Obsidian Wings”

    Abi Lyn Voss “The Little Tire Shop”

    Valari Westeren “Symbiosis”

    Amie Woleslagle “Colors of Grief”

    The Author Conservatory is a college-alternative program for gifted writers focused on raising up the next C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. 100% of your purchase goes to help students attend writing conferences where they can pitch their work to agents and publishers.

    You can get a copy of this anthology directly from Jenny on her WEBSITE. and follow her on Goodreads.

    Learn more about the Author Conservatory on their WEBSITE.

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  • I love a good dystopian novel, and New Heroes by E. H. Underhill sounds sooooo good! I am so excited to get my hands on this book! Listen in and see why.

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    I love this idea of a dystopian series.

    The Solar Storm Chronicles: New Heroes by E. H. Underhill

    In the gripping dystopian thriller, "The Solar Storm Chronicles - New Heroes," author E.H. Underhill plunges readers into a world reshaped by solar storms and teetering on the edge of chaos. Protagonist Eric's struggle for survival unfolds against a backdrop of relentless danger and shifting alliances.

    Attacked and pursued, Eric's journey through a dystopian world becomes a visceral experience. As he confronts the harsh realities of this transformed world, Eric forms unexpected alliances with a diverse group of friends, each harboring their own scars from the past.

    "The Solar Storm Chronicles - New Heroes" is a heart-pounding exploration of humanity's resilience in the face of adversity. With its atmospheric setting, complex characters, and moral quandaries, the story delves into the depths of survival instincts and the bonds that form when the world falls apart.

    Immerse yourself in a tale of courage, camaraderie, and the unbreakable human spirit as Eric navigates a dangerous landscape where every decision could mean life or death. Will he overcome the shadows of his past, or will the storm within mirror the chaos outside? Find out in this riveting saga that will leave you on the edge of your seat until the final page.

    Learn more about E. H. on INSTAGRAM and follow him on GoodReads.

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  • Welcome back to the charming community of Moonberry Lake. It's time to get to know the crazy antics taking place in the florist's shop and wow... let's just say I couldn't stop laughing. Listen in to hear what you'll find in The Blooming of Delphinium.

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    Moonberry Lake, Minnesota features such a unique and charming cast of characters in this fabulous series. This second book offers even more amusing and heartwarming moments.

    Don't miss the first interview with Holly Varni HERE.

    The Blooming of Delphinium by Holly Varni

    As far as hidden talents go, Delphinium Hayes is blessed with one of the more unique ones. With the slightest passing whiff, she knows someone's most admirable or weediest characteristic. This peculiar perception never fails to give her an advantage in life--until she meets two men who turn her world upside down.

    Mason McCormack has agreed to help her with a group of seniors who have taken over her flower shop as their hangout. But his assistance is not without its price, and Delphinium agrees to compensate him with beautiful bouquets that seem to possess a bit of dating magic.

    Elliot Sturgis, director of The Gardens Assisted Living Facility, is determined to discover why a group of his residents keeps sneaking over to Delphinium's shop to play poker in the walk-in refrigerator. He soon finds himself as enchanted by Delphinium as everyone else. But his devotion to following the rules and maintaining order does not endear him to the shop's owner.

    Sparks fly as opposites attract and love finds a match in Delphinium's Flora Emporium--even for those who resist it the most.

    Learn more about Holly Varni on her WEBSITE (where you can find her podcast) and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

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  • The Encounter series by D.M. Griffin looks at four women who each had a brief encounter with Jesus and its profound effect on their lives. The final book, Return of the Son just released. Listen in to see what you'll find in the covers of this Biblical fiction novel.

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    Have you ever wondered who the "Widow of Naim" might have been? Griffin takes a look at what could have led up to the heartbreaking moment that led to one of Jesus' encounters with broken people.

    Don't miss her first episode HERE.

    Return of the Son by D. M. Griffin

    Her life was perfect. At least her childhood was. Eve never wanted anything except her father's presence. As a prominent advisor to the evil King Herod, Eve's father was split between his duties to the king and his duties as the only living parent for his daughter. With no heir to claim his family's land, Eve's father did what any loving father would do. He arranged for her betrothal. But this wasn't just any betrothal. Her potential husband was related to the king she despised. With a rough marital journey ahead of her, she tenuously clings to the promises of God.

    Not sharing her father's enthusiasm or respect for the Herodian dynasty, Eve acted like the spoiled child she was upon first meeting her betrothed. With faulty expectations and prejudiced opinions, she did what she could to ruin the marriage before it began. It wasn't until it was almost too late that Eve's eyes were open and she saw the opportunity to experience love for the divine intervention that it was.

    Fraught with political intrigue and personal challenges, would Eve be able to fully surrender to the life God wanted her to live by loving a man she thought she could never love? When that man's shadows chase the family into the future, would Eve's son pay the ultimate price? Or would God intervene there too? Could He? Only a single, unforeseen encounter could answer Eve's impossible question. Does love truly conquer death?

    Learn more about Demi on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub.

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  • After chatting with him about his Barabbas books in the past, readers might expect a new Biblical fiction series, but next up from M. D. House... Fantasy!!! EEEP! Listen in to see what you'll find in this exciting new series!

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    The End Times Convergence series opens with Crossroads of Awakening Memory, a fantasy that deals with multiple worlds serving the same God with portals! The portals are "awakening."

    Add to that a tie-in with end-times expectations, and you've got a fantasy series I'm dying to read!

    Crossroads of Awakening Memory by M.D. House

    To young trainee Rain Barynd, becoming a Council Guard in bucolic New Haven will secure a positive future that involves neither farming nor any real fighting. Impressing his girlfriend’s skeptical parents and overcoming a handful of bullies among the trainees—along with the inexplicable intensity of his trainer, a decorated warrior from the East—are his greatest challenges. Or so he believes.

    A rare and ruthless bandit attack marks the beginning of the mayhem that engulfs Rain’s childhood home and sets him on an unimaginable path that includes … his own magic? Talismans that enable travel to other worlds? Griffons and dragons, ancient nemeses thought to be long extinct? Strange metal beasts that spit bellowing fire? And even elves of fairy tale, as real as the dwarves?

    Amid a besom of chaos and doubt, Rain must work with members of a mysterious ancient order to piece together a growing convergence of clues long prophesied. All while trying to figure out his place in the madness. Only one thing is certain—he is not ready.

    You can learn more about Mike on his WEBSITE. Follow him on BookBub and GoodReads.

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  • The world could always use more fantasy novels, and after my chat with Steven A. Guglich, I'm sure Piercing the Veil is a great addition to the genre. Listen in to learn about how he wrote this series and what's to come.

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    By nature, fantasy novels are about journeys--to places, to things, to ideas... but journeys. Steven Guglich has a new twist on it (well, it's new to me!) with fantasy that explores what happened when magic left the human race and what it will take to bring it back.

    One thing that fascinated me most about his writing process is how he wrote all the backstory and history of everything. Dwarves, gnomes, gods, legends...He created it all so that he'd have it when he needed it to weave into the story but we won't get great, heaping infodumps of world-building. Because worldbuilding is such a huge part of fantasy, but authors too often build within the story instead of tell the story that came from the world they already built.

    Piercing the Veil by Steven A. Guglich

    They say that legends are born, not made.

    But for Jeremy Goodson and Masaru Hagen that is far from the truth. Confronted by something that neither of them can explain, two complete strangers from opposite sides of the world embark on an unforgettable journey that will forge them into living legends.

    It has been almost 4,000 years since magic disappeared from the Earth. Hidden from humanity by the Veil, those who possess magic live in ancient settlements across the globe. Over the centuries, these beings have pierced the Veil, leaving behind glimpses and shadows of the fantastic and arcane. Fueled by distant memories and humanity’s desire for wonder, familiar stories of myths and legends have been passed down for thousands of years in nearly every culture and nation.

    Jeremy Goodson, an average, overweight teacher in New York City finds his entire world turned upside down when a stranger tempts him to leave everything behind and start a journey that will test Jeremy’s mysterious gift and bring magic and hope back to humanity.

    Masaru Hagen, the adopted son of American tech entrepreneurs living in Tokyo, has been guided by an unseen voice all his life. On the eve of his twentieth birthday, the voice leads him across thousands of miles, on a mysterious and perilous mission he alone can undertake.

    But there are principalities of this world that will do whatever they can to stop Jeremy and Masaru and keep magic out of the hands of humanity forever.

    One of these men will bring hope to the world; the other will bring death. The world they once knew will be changed forever, not only for themselves, but for everyone on Earth… and maybe not for the best.

    Learn more about Steven on his WEBSITE and follow him on GoodReads and BookBub.

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  • A chat with Liz Johnson is always a lot of fun, but a chat about another Red Door Inn book? Listen in to learn what you'll find in Meddling with Mistletoe

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    Okay, so we talked about more than Meddling with Mistletoe. Yes, we learned what we'll find in that book, but... we also had to have a chat about Christmas at the Red Door Inn (a personal favorite) and about her new series coming next year!

    Meddling with Mistletoe by Liz Johnson

    Whitney Garrett is preparing to enter culinary school in the spring, but first she has to sell enough homemade pies at the local Christmas markets to pay her tuition. When her oven breaks, Whitney asks Marie Sloan, proprietor of the Red Door Inn, if she can use the inn's kitchen to keep up with her orders. Marie agrees, with a catch: Whitney has to watch the three Sloan children and cook breakfasts for the Red Door in return.

    The inn is busy with holiday guests--including Aretha Franklin Sloan's perpetually single nephew Daniel and Ruby, a businesswoman in town to purchase Aretha's antiques store. Intent on making a Christmas match for the two, Aretha enlists Whitney's help in her schemes. But the deeper Whitney gets, the more she realizes that Ruby is definitely not the right woman for Daniel--and the more she thinks that she just might be his perfect match.

    Cuddle up for some warm holiday cheer as New York Times bestselling author Liz Johnson explores the unforeseen consequences of meddling with mistletoe when love is on the line.

    You can still get Meddling with Mistletoe for 30% off and FREE SHIPPING from BakerBookHouse.com

    Find out more about Liz on her WEBSITE. And follow her on BookBub and GoodReads!

    Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at:

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