Every writing class I’ve taken has reinforced the notion that good writers are voracious readers. The best way to learn how to tell good stories is to read them. And one of the best parts of being a writer is getting to know other writers and expanding my list authors to look for. Here are a few books I’ve read and enjoyed from authors I have met and come to adore as friends.
Mary L Hamilton
Worthless Treasures
Mary’s tale of Di, a professional organizer who goes on a quest to rehome “treasures” her mother leaves behind, will give you all the feels.The death of her mother leaves Diamond Lange with a short list of treasured items she must pass on to others. At a time when she questions her own worth, Di must dig through a cluttered house to find the items that have no value whatsoever including a piano that can’t be tuned and a rag doll missing half its hair. It’s sweet, heartwarming, a touch sad at times, but ultimately a feel-good story of family and the value we place on the objects in our lives. https://maryhamiltonbooks.com/mystery-and-suspense-womens-fiction/
Allison Nance
Deep Cries Out
This is a must read for anyone who has battled debilitating illness, depression, or loss. Aimee Rojas has faced all three. As Aimee grapples with the physical and mental effects of her illness, she has no idea her healing will involve the love of a man whose past is just as complicated as her own, and the surfacing of a lie which might not only end her career, but her life. My heart broke for Aimee, but I cheered for her as she found healing in friendships, the ocean, and in God’s provision. https://www.allisonrnance.com/books
Paula Peckham
Protected
If you like westerns, this action-packed historical romance is right up your alley. When disaster strikes a wagon train bound for San Antonio, eighteen-year-old Abby is left to care for the children on her own until Manny, a young cowboy, agrees to help them on their journey. A lie threatens friendship forming between Abby and Manny and endangers the wagon train’s safety. https://paulapeckham.com/my-book-table/
D’Ann Mateer
At Every Turn
Alyce loves two things—Jesus and racing cars. When she pledges an impossible sum of money to missionaries in Africa, she’ll have to come up with a way to raise the funds. (spoiler alert: it’s racing) This historical romance checks all the boxes and opened my eyes to the early days of race cars, which I found fascinating. https://www.dmateer.com/books/at-every-turn/
Charlsie Estess
When the Ocean Roars
A UFC fighter has met his match when he falls for his opponent’s sister. While their attraction threatens his professional career, a natural disaster threatens their very existence. Set in Japan, Charlsie’s sweet romance juxtaposed against the world of Ultimate Fighting is a unique premise I enjoyed. https://www.charlsieestess.com/
