There is nothing quite so fun as entering an adventure through reading. One of the most exciting series I’ve read in a long time is Nova McBee’s Calculated, Simulated and Activated. All three books are fast-paced, with appealing characters and a plot that kept me turning the pages. Jo River is a heroine you will love. The first book centers on a fight that is close to my heart. These books may be “young adult”, but I gobbled them up in a matter of days (and I’m a slow reader). Rumor has it they will be made into movies. I’ll be in line to see them on the big screen!
The second series is Sensible Shoes by Sharon Garlough Brown published by Intervarsity Press. Sensible Shoes, Two Steps Forward, Barefoot and An Extra Mile, all center on the spiritual growth of four women (and a fifth in the final). These books are well-written, packed with the challenges of life and how walking with God brings us shining through the most trying issues. These novels can be read slowly and savored. I loved the characters and have shared some of their trials and tribulations. Study guides are available for all four books. Great for a book club looking for a serious study.
I also highly recommend America’s Providential History by Mark A. Beliles and Stephen K. McDowell. This book holds compact lessons and is a valuable reminder of the largely forgotten Christian foundations of our great nation. It has also challenged me to keep my eyes open and put my faith into action when and where I can. If we are to remain free, we must give voice to the Truth on which we were built.
If you are looking for an historical novel with romance woven in, I hope you’ll read my Mark of the Lion trilogy. A Voice in the Wind begins with the story of Hadassah, a Jewish slave in Rome, Marcus, a Roman aristocrat, Julie, his hedonistic sister, and Atretes, a German gladiator. An Echo in the Darkness moves the story to Ephesus, and As Sure of the Dawn is the culmination of Atretes fight for freedom and journey to his homeland. Lots of high adventure and biblical lessons in all three.
If you’re interested in a family saga, Her Mother’s Hope and Her Daughter’s Dream covers the lives of four women; an immigrant, a nurse, a 1960s hippy and a young pregnant soldier’s wife facing a life and death decision.