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Dear Reader, ready for a rollicking good romance? Then hang tight. You're about to meet my latest character, Caroline Spencer--a hilarious single mom who's up for almost any adventure, including chaperoning a bunch of boisterous teenagers on their class trip to Mexico!What Caroline's not up for is Blaine Madison-a fellow chaperone and single parent. Now trust me, honey, when I say this guy is tall, dark, and take-you-breath-away. But just as our leading lady is falling in love, two of the teen-agers get caught up in an international smuggling ring. One is Blaine's daughter-and the other one is Caroline's.Kids will be kids, crooks will be crooks, and hearts will be hearts, but love trumps all.Enjoy the lift of laugher, Linda Windsor

Brought together across time by a love of story, three women in England fight to defy expectations, dream new dreams, and welcome love into their lives. As a counselor, Sophia Barrett is trained to help people cope with their burdens. But when she meets a new patient whose troubles mirror her own, she realizes she hasn't dealt with the pain of her recent past. After making a snap decision to get away for the summer, Sophia moves overseas to an apartment above a charming bookstore in Cornwall, England. She is hopeful she will find peace there surrounded by her favorite thing: great literature. Bookstore owner Ginny Rose is desperate to save her business without asking for help from a husband who's decided to take a break from their marriage. Ginny never imagined she'd be solely responsible for keeping afloat her husband's dream, but the unexpected friendship with her new renter has her feeling more optimistic. Between the two of them—and Ginny's brother-in-law, William—the bookstore might stand a chance. Then Sophia finds a notebook in the bookstore that contains journal entries from Emily Fairfax, a governess who lived in Cornwall more than 150 years ago. Sophia learns that Emily harbored a secret passion for becoming an authoress—as well as a deep love for her childhood friend, Edward, whose station she dared not dream to touch. Eager to know more of Emily's story, Sophia goes on a quest—dragging Ginny and William with her—to discover the heart of the woman behind the beautiful entries. Soon Ginny's need to save the bookstore becomes more than a way to save her marriage, and Sophia finds new purpose of her own. Together they find that sometimes both heartache and hope can reach across the centuries.'A historical mystery and sweet modern day story entwine to offer a message of healing, hope and second chances set in charming Cornwall.'—Rachel Linden, author of The Enlightenment of Bees“In a delightful weaving of past and present, Lindsay Harrel creates authentic characters around a moving story that both inspires and encourages. The Secrets of Paper and Ink is about broken people, second chances, hope, and—my personal favorite—the incredible power of story.” —Heidi Chiavaroli, Carol award-winning author of Freedom's Ring and The Hidden Side“In The Secrets of Paper and Ink, Lindsay Harrel explores the power of love—and how it influences us to make choices that bless others, as well as ourselves. Or sometimes, we can do just the opposite and make choices that harm us and others—all the while calling it love. Harrel pens an honest, true-to-life novel that's woven through with the Truth that offers hope when our decisions—or the decisions of the ones we love—wreck our dreams for happily ever after.” —Beth K. Vogt, Christy-award winning author

The uplifting conclusion of The Christmas List, a heart-warming account of the power of encouragement and appreciation, is based on a true story that circulated on the Internet. A nun told her fourth-grade students to write their names on a piece of paper and then pass the paper to the next person, who was to write a sentence of appreciation about the person named at the top. When the exercise was done, each student had twenty-four comments of admiration and appreciation - one from each classmate.The Christmas List follows James Engler, who returns home to Iowa one Christmas, after his fiancee calls off their marriage, and discovers that his best childhood friend, Mike, has just been killed in the Gulf War. When Mike's parents reveal at a memorial service that Mike had carried his fourth-grade list with him, most of James's former classmates confess that they, too, kept their lists as a reminder, even in the worst of times, of their admirable traits and that they were appreciated.James also renews his acquaintance with his former classmate Sarah, who wrote on his list,'You are a great guy and some day I'm going to marry.'And she does.

Shakespeare's famous comedy, A Midsummer Night's Dream, gets a modern retelling in a lighthearted rom-com that proves'the course of true love'(and the merging of families, for that matter)'never did run smooth.'Fans of Jenny Proctor and Courtney Walsh will get swept away in this romance about second chances.Helena's a'fly by the seat of her pants'kind of girl. Amelia's got her perfect life planned down to the minute. How will they ever get through their parents'wedding--let alone a life as stepsisters--without ripping each other apart?Twenty-seven-year-old Helena Crosby is over her mom Nora's wedding--and it hasn't even happened yet. For months, Helena's been dreading the day she and Nora would become part of The Perfects, aka the Maddox family, led by oldest perfect daughter Amelia. Her complete opposite in every way, Amelia owns a house, runs her father's architecture firm, and is engaged to her also perfect (and dreamy) fiancé Gage, all before the age of thirty. Helena has no idea how she's going to fit into this family with their fancy traditions and strict timetables. Thankfully, her best friend Landon is joining the festivities as her emotional support plus one--and the perfect buffer between her and her new family.Amelia Maddox has spent months planning the perfect wedding week for her dad Steve and his bride-to-be Nora. She'd planned for every consistency... except for her new free spirited stepsister's deadly shellfish allergy, her brother's insistence on blowing up his life, and an unexpected guest on Helena's arm. A guest she hasn't seen in years. A guest who held her heart years before her fiancé Gage ever did... her ex Landon Blake. But no matter--Amelia's kept the Maddox family together since her mother died a few years ago. She's not going to be thrown by Landon's deep blue eyes and sun-bronzed forearms and the way he makes her feel all warm and cozy, like she's come home to herself. Nope. She has duties to attend to: being the best daughter, sister, fiancée, boss, and wedding coordinator. And she's going to bring her Eldest Daughter Energy to it all and push down those inconvenient feelings, no matter what.Through a whirlwind week of wedding activities and a few near disasters, both Amelia and Helena realize that sometimes the blueprints for the perfect family and relationship look better on paper than in real life--and that family isn't only made of the people you're born with. Family is also made of the people we choose over and over again.This heartwarming and hilarious rom-com is a low-spice, high-energy romp with sailing disasters, a rogue pet parrot, and two mismatched couples. Think 27 Dresses meets Shakespeare on the beach! Perfect for book clubs, with its themes of love, family, and second chances, the book includes discussion questions to help get the conversation started.

Flight attendant Taylor Tippett had just finished beverage service and was sitting in the back of a Boeing 737 when she had a revelation: How can I show kindness to these passengers if I can't show it to myself? She grabbed a tiny notepad and a Sharpie and wrote a simple message that would change her life:'Be kind to yourself.'Before she had time to think about it, Taylor taped the note to a window, posted a picture, and then left the slip of paper in a seat-back pocket for someone on the next flight to find. What started as a personal project to encourage herself and others soon became a viral sensation.In Words from the Window Seat, Taylor shares stories of her travels, daily life, and interactions with people of all kinds, anchoring each chapter around a note she's left for a stranger to find. As she takes you from Chicago to Paris to Barcelona on planes, trains, and even a skateboard, you'll:Learn how to embody love through little acts of kindnessDiscover the small moments of magic in the everydayFind ways to embrace your authentic selfWith charm, inspiration, and plenty of whimsy, Taylor reminds us that even in a weary world, it's possible to celebrate the beauty in each person's unique story--and make an impact that goes deeper than you'll ever know.Praise for Words from the Window Seat:'These pages will empower you to explore the many opportunities we have each day to encounter light and share love with others while traveling. Whether traveling by air or traveling through life. This book is an encouragement to be present in the everyday, no matter what comes your way.'--Morgan Harper Nichols, bestselling author of All Along You Were Blooming

A USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestseller!Learn how to fight better and end your arguments with your partner feeling closer, more loved, and better understood.We take our cars in for oil changes. We mow our lawns and pull weeds. Why don't we do maintenance on our marriages? This relationship is the most important one we will ever have, so why not get better at it?For the last several years, Penn and Kim Holderness of The Holderness Family have done the hard maintenance and the research to learn how to fight better. With the help of their marriage coach Dr. Christopher Edmonston, they break down their biggest (and in some cases, funniest) fights. How did a question about chicken wings turn into a bra fight (no, not a bar fight or a bra fight)? How did a roll of toilet paper lead to tears, resentment, and a stint in the guest bedroom?With their trademark sense of humor and complete vulnerability, Penn and Kim share their 10 most common Fight Fails and how to combat them. Throughout the book, they offer scripts for how to start, continue, and successfully close hard conversations. Couples will emerge equipped to engage and understand, not do battle—and maybe laugh a little more along the way.In Everybody Fights, couples will learn how to:Use'magic words'for healthy conflict resolutionAddress unspoken and unrealistic expectationsBanish the three Ds of unhealthy communication—distraction, denial, and delayCarry individual baggage while helping your partner deal with theirsPenn and Kim want you to know you're not alone. Everybody fights. Marriage is messy. Marriage is work. But marriage is worth it. Fight for it!

Beloved writer Sean Dietrich—also known as Sean of the South—will warm your heart with this rich and nostalgic tale of a small-town sheriff, a mysterious little girl, and a good-hearted community pulling together to help her.Folks in Moab live for ice cream socials, baseball, and the local paper's weekly gossip column. Sheriff Winston Browne has watched over Moab with a generous eye for a decade, and by now he's used to handling the daily dramas that keep life interesting for Moab's quirky residents.But just after Winston receives some terrible, life-altering news, a seemingly mute runaway with no clear origin arrives in Moab. The residents do what they believe is right and take her in—until two suspicious strangers arrive and begin looking for her. Suddenly Winston has a child in desperate need of protection—as well as a secret of his own to keep.With the help of Moab's goodhearted townsfolk, the humble and well-meaning Winston Browne still has some heroic things to do. He finds romance, family, and love in unexpected places. He stumbles upon adventure, searches his soul, and grapples with the past. In doing so, he just might discover what a life well-lived truly looks like.Sometimes ordinary people do the most extraordinary things of all.Praise for The Incredible Winston Browne:“Sean Dietrich has written a home run of a novel with The Incredible Winston Browne. Every bit as wonderful as its title implies, it's the story of Browne—a principled, baseball-loving sheriff—a precocious little girl in need of help, and the community that rallies around them. This warm, witty, tender novel celebrates the power of friendship and family to transform our lives. It left me nostalgic and hopeful, missing my grandfathers, and eager for baseball season to start again. I loved it.” —Ariel Lawhon, New York Times bestselling author of I Was Anastasia“Make no mistake. [The Incredible Winston Browne] is a classic story, told by an expert storyteller.” —Shawn Smucker, author of Light from Distant StarsStand-alone historical novel set in the 1950sIncludes discussion questions for book clubsAlso from Sean Dietrich: Stars of Alabama

It's never too late to start over. The Summer House weaves Lauren K. Denton's inviting Southern charm around a woman's journey to find herself in a small beach town—with a little help from the local retirement community.Lily Bishop wakes up one morning to find a good-bye note and divorce papers from her husband on the kitchen counter. Having just moved to Alabama for his job only weeks before, Lily is devastated. New to town and knowing no one, Lily finds herself in desperate need of a job and a new place to live. When Lily hears that a hair stylist is needed at small retirement community, she decides to apply.Rose Carrigan built the small retirement village of Safe Harbor years ago—just before her husband ran off with his assistant. Now she runs a tight ship, making sure the residents follow her strict rules. Rose keeps everyone at arm's length, including her own family. But when Lily shows up asking for a job and a place to live, Rose's cold exterior begins to thaw.Lily and Rose form an unlikely friendship, and Lily's salon soon becomes the place where the colorful residents share town gossip and a few secrets. Lily soon finds herself drawn to Rose's nephew, Rawlins—a single dad and shrimper who's had some practice at starting over—and one of the residents may be carrying a torch for Rose as well.Neither Lily nor Rose is where she expected to be, but the summer makes them both wonder if there's more to life and love than what they've experienced so far.The Summer House is a: Cozy novel full of charm and heart that's perfect vacation reading Celebration of new beginnings, friendship, and family Sweet, clean romance set on the Gulf Coast“The perfect summer read! Situated on the Alabama Gulf Coast, you'll feel the sun, taste the salt, and linger with new friends—you won't want to leave. And with lyrical prose and rich characters, The Summer House is a beautifully poignant reminder that we are never too young to find a good place to stand nor too old to start over.”—Katherine Reay, bestselling author of The Printed Letter Bookshop and Dear Mr. Knightley

In this stunning sequel to The Sons of Blackbird Mountain, Aven and Thor's love story continues—and an age-old feud endangers the Norgaard family in ways no one could have ever imagined. Aven Norgaard understands courage. Orphaned within an Irish workhouse, then widowed at just nineteen, she voyaged to America where she was wooed and wed by Thor Norgaard, a Deaf man in rural Appalachia. That the Lord saw her along the winding journey and that Aven now carries Thor's child are blessings beyond measure. Yet while Thor holds her heart, it is his younger brother and rival who haunts her memories. Haakon—whose selfish choices shattered her trust in him. Having fled the Norgaard orchard after a terrible mistake, Haakon sails on the North Atlantic ice trade, where his soul is plagued with regrets that distance cannot heal. Not even the beautiful Norwegian woman he's pursued can ease the torment. When the winds bear him home after four years away, Haakon finds the family on the brink of tragedy. A decades-old feud with the neighboring farm has wrenched them into the fiercest confrontation on Blackbird Mountain since the Civil War. Haakon's cunning and strength hold the power to seal many fates, including Thor's—which is already imperiled due to a grave illness brought to him at the first prick of warfare.Now Haakon faces the hardest choice of his life. One that shapes a battlefield where pride must be broken enough to be restored, and where a prodigal son may finally know the healing peace of surrender and the boundless gift of forgiveness. And when it comes to the woman he left behind in Norway, he just might discover that while his heart belongs to a daughter of the north, she's been awaiting him on shores more distant than the land he's fighting for. This inspirational historical romance can be read as a standalone but is best enjoyed as a follow-up to The Sons of Blackbird Mountain by Christy Award–winning author Joanne Bischof. Book length: approximately 109,000 words. Includes a reading group guide and a note from the author. “Bischof's effortless prose and emotionally driven scenes captivate the reader from beginning to end. Characters so real you begin to believe they are. The Norgaard brothers and their families will steal your heart. Beautifully eloquent, this grace-filled tale is one not to be missed.” —Catherine West, author of Where Hope Begins “Laced with lyrical prose, Daughters of Northern Shores is a story of redemption that gripped me from its first moments. I savored every gorgeous detail, and the characters continue to live with me even now. Bischof is a master at enfolding readers in her story world and bringing them along in a journey of the heart.” —Lindsay Harrel, author of The Secrets of Paper and Ink

Can God use ordinary people to change the world? Join Jeannie Marie, bestselling author and advocate for global outreach, as she teaches us how to follow Jesus to the nations in our neighborhood and around the world.In the middle of diapers, dishes, papers, or presentations, deep down, we all long to live a life of purpose. In Across the Street and Around the World, Jeannie Marie shows us we can change the world right where we already live, work, play, and study--by learning to grow genuine, spiritually deep friendships with people from other countries, cultures, and faiths.In her refreshing'you-can-do-this-too'style, Marie leads us by the hand with clear steps, try-it sections, and beautifully crafted prayers. She gently guides us away from common cultural missteps so we can offer Jesus in a winsome way, while honoring culture, faith, and family.Across the Street and Around the World will give you the tools you need to:Engage the world at your doorstep--specifically refugees and international students in your communityIntentionally cultivate discipleship relationships so that you're encouraging our cross-cultural friends to follow Jesus ChristGain global experience, education, and exposure while building a bridge from the nations in your neighborhood to the ends of the earthWith confidence, courage, and compassion, Jeannie will teach you to start small, start soon, and start somewhere you already are.Praise for Across the Street and Around the World:'Jeannie Marie shares a lifetime of invaluable experience with the rest of us. Her book is a treasure trove of insights and practical resources for engaging the nations in our own backyard and to the ends of the earth!'--David Garrison, author of Church-Planting Movements and Wind in the House of Islam'A book to pay attention to—whether you are an individual thinking through your life's purpose, a church leader trying to ensure you lead on mission, or a mission leader navigating these days where everything is changing in your world. Jeannie is adding her experienced and articulate voice to the call for us all to have a fresh look at our efforts to bring the good news of Jesus to the billions who have never heard it or seen it lived out. If you are also serious about that mission, this is a must-read for you.'--Andrew Scott, president and CEO of Operation Mobilization USA and author of Scatter

Is it really possible to simplify your life? The answer is a resounding'yes,'if you know the necessary steps to unclutter your life and lifestyle. Get the inside scoop from professional organizer Marcia Ramsland and begin to solve your life management issues like a pro. With fast-paced, step-by-step instructions, Marcia walks you through refreshing new ways to manage your daily schedule, your life at home and at work, and special seasons of your life such as parenting, the holidays, and transitions.Simplify Your Life reveals do-able tips and practical systems using Marcia's trademark'PuSH'Sequence?an acronym for Project, you (the key component), System, Habit?which not only gets you organized but help you stay that way. Tips include how to:Create the illusion of a clean home in just minutes each dayPredict a pending time crunch... and sail through itDissolve any paper pile by answering three key questionsPower through projects you never get around toLearn how to put things back together when everything falls apartOffering practical solutions designed to change your life immediately, this simplified style of living gives you and your loved ones more time to do the things you really enjoy?starting today.

After discovering a collection of letters written by his father, who he thought was dead, Abel Shifflett decides to run away—accompanied by Willie, his adult friend who is mentally disabled but extremely protective of him. But their journey is ill-fated from the start. Will Abel find the home—and father—he's always longed for?All Abel wants is a little bit of magic in his life. Enough money so his mom doesn't cry at night. Healing for his broken body. And maybe a few answers about his past.When Abel discovers letters to him from the father he believed dead, he wonders if magic has come to the hills of Mattingly, Virginia, after all. But not everything is as it seems.With a lot of questions and a little bit of hope, Abel decides to run away to find the truth. But danger follows him from the moment he jumps his first boxcar, forcing Abel to rely on his simpleminded friend Willie—a man wanted for murder who knows more about truth than most—and a beautiful young woman they met on the train.From Appalachia to the Tennessee wilds and through the Carolina mountains, the name of a single small town beckons: Fairhope. That is where Abel believes his magic lays. But will it be the sort that will bring a broken boy healing? And is it the magic that will one day lead him home?An achingly perfect tale of love, friendship and faithIncludes discussion questions for book clubs Other books by Billy Coffey: Snow Day, Paper Angels, The Devil Walks in Mattingly, and In the Heart of the Dark Wood

The Nashville Scene created “Calling All Kids... The Nashville Write-Off” in 1996 as a way to inspire young writers. This year, the weekly paper asked its budding authors to address the following topic: “My Favorite Things to Do in Middle Tennessee.”Entry forms were run in the Scene over several weeks, and were also distributed at various malls, pizza joints, and at least one optometrist's office. Soon, essays were flooding our offices. After a panel of judges was convened to review the works, one grand prize winner was selected from each age category (ages 6–12, and 13–18), and a number of honorable mentions were selected as well.The winners were announced at the Southern Festival of Books, and they were awarded cash prizes. The winners were also assured of having their work published. This book, in fact, is a compilation of the winning works.

It's 1885 and five preachers sit around a campfire out West, trading stories of unlikely couples they've seen God bring together. This is one of those stories...She's the best writer the paper has ever had. He's her new editor. And she doesn't like it one bit.Molly Everton is the outspoken daughter of the town's newspaper publisher. She had the best education her father's money could buy and she's a better writer than he is. So when her father passes her over for the position of editor and gives the job to an outsider from back East, she's furious. But a smart girl like Molly knows she can drive the new guy out of town with little trouble if she plays her cards right...Jack Ludlow came out West for adventure and wide open spaces, not romance. And he's not intimidated by the beautiful daughter of his new employer. At first he's just trying to prove to her he is the right man for the job—but before long he's set on stealing her heart.“Robin's stories are always an adventure of the heart! She is one of the premier storytellers of our day.'—Karen Kingsbury, best-selling author

Page-turning romantic suspense set amid the gorgeous beauty of Hawaii and the impending danger of a volcano. A brainy—and perpetually single—volcanologist, Annie Tagama works alongside her father at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. But despite her pedigree, Annie has lost her passion or volcanology. She's quietly grieving the mysterious loss of her brother in the Middle East.When Annie discovers that her brother might still be alive—and in trouble—she shakes off her malaise and joins forces with Mano Oana, the unnervingly handsome family friend she had always blamed for her brother's death.As Annie and Mano investigate—and find that they have a lot more in common than tragedy—an evil force gathers strength on the main island. An ancient cult has reemerged—and Annie's little sister is somehow involved. As the old religion bubbles to the surface like lava, the old practices are not far behind... including human sacrifice.Annie and Mano are desperate to find her brother and save her family from destruction before the ancient evil smothers them all in an earth-shattering eruption.This full-length romantic suspense can be read as a standalone, but is also part of the Aloha Reef Series.Book one: Distant EchoesBook two: Black SandsBook three: Dangerous DepthsBook four: Midnight SeaIncludes discussion questions.'Wow! Reading Colleen Coble's Black Sands is like taking a romantic excursion to Hawaii's rugged shoreline. Coble brings the setting to life, draws engaging characters, and spins an intricate web of intrigue.'--Denise Hunter, author of The Convenient Groom and Summer by the Tides'Filled with the spirit of aloha and page-turning twists and turns, Black Sands is romantic suspense at its thrilling finest. A can't-put-down read!'--Linda Windsor, award-winning author of Paper Moon'No one take you to a setting like Colleen Coble, and what better place to be than the Black Sands of Hawaii? Reading the book was like a cool dip in the balmy ocean—under the lurking shadow of a volcano in shark-infested waters. Enjoy, but beware!'--Kristin Billerbeck, author of The Theory of Happily Ever After

Lonestar SanctuaryThough tragedy has wrecked her life, Allie Siders holds on to the hope that her five-year-old daughter, Betsy, will speak again. But with a stalker out for revenge, all Allie can think about now is their safety. She heads to the peaceful Bluebird Ranch, nestled in Texas hill country. Ranch owner Elijah DeAngelo eagerly welcomes the duo. But Rick Bailey—the ranch foreman—hasn't decided to let his guard down. Promises made long ago soon force Rick and Allie to work together to escape danger.Lonestar SecretsShannon Astor returns to southwest Texas to serve as the town's veterinarian—and to get her life back on track. Then she catches a glimpse of Jack MacGowan, the man who ruined her life years before. Even more shocking is the sight of Jack's five-year-old daughter Faith, who bears an uncanny resemblance to Shannon's own daughter Kylie. Could Faith be the daughter that Shannon has believed to be dead for all these years?Lonestar HomecomingGracie Lister escapes with her daughter to the West Texas country where her family fell apart years ago. There, Lieutenant Michael Wayne gives Gracie the refuge she needs and a job caring for his two children. When Gracie's ex-fiancé catches up to her, her impulse is to flee the danger—and the father she lacks the courage to confront. Together Gracie and Michael must find the strength they need in each other to protect their newly forged family.Lonestar AngelFive years ago Eden and Clay Larson's baby was stolen and never found. The tragedy ended their young and rocky marriage. Now Eden's moved to a new town to rebuild her life. But Clay arrives and delivers news: he never signed their divorce papers. And Clay has been searching for Brianna all this time. He believes he's found her in Bluebird, Texas, at a youth ranch. All five little girls there are the right age. Eden and Clay sign on as counselors, but as danger closes in, Eden, Clay, and all their young charges are in jeopardy. As they fight to save their family, Eden realizes that God has been fighting for them all along.All is CalmThe Bluebird Ranch is the perfect place for Lauren Everman to hide. As the witness to a murder, she needs protection and the ranch's owners offer her sanctuary. She lends a hand with the foster kids who visit the ranch to learn how to ride horses. Little Carly is her first student. Brendan Waddell is recovering from a gunshot wound at Bluebird Ranch. His friends'welcoming home is the perfect place for him to rest during the holiday season. Lauren intrigues him, even though she says she's not interested in romance. When Lauren and Brendan conspire to give young Carly a happy Christmas, love blooms. But first the couple must race against time to find the killer before he strikes again.

Johnnie Gabriel knows a thing or two about cooking for Southerners. The author of two cookbooks, Cooking in the South and Second Helpings, does it every day at Gabriel's, her restaurant and bakery in Marietta, Georgia. In How to Cook Like a Southerner, Gabriel isn't just sharing her recipes; she's taking her Southern expertise to the next level, offering step-by-step photos for 35 of the most iconic Southern dishes, curating and testing over one hundred recipes from some of the best and most gracious cooks in the South, and offering tips to help you dress up even the most basic recipes for special occasions.The art and science of cooking has come a long way, creating a gadget for everything from zesting fruit to cutting paper-thin slices of vegetables, but creating delicious Southern food for your family and friends doesn't require fancy gadgets and high-tech kitchen appliances. Johnnie Gabriel says all you need is a cutting board, a sharp knife, a rolling pin, and a seasoned cast iron skillet, just like her mama did. And because classic Southern dishes were created to use the meats and vegetables that were available in the region, the recipes in How to Cook Like a Southerner call for ingredients you can find at your local grocery store or farmers'market. No speciality stores or online searches needed.Making a homemade pie crust for the first time? Let Johnnie show you how. Do you wonder what the difference between a blond, peanut butter, and coffee roux is? How to Cook Like a Southerner will guide you through each level. Wanna learn the tricks Southern grandmothers use for creating the best fried chicken, cornbread, buttermilk biscuits, field peas with snaps, macaroni and cheese, fried green tomatoes, and country fried steak? They're all here.So stock up on cornmeal, buttermilk, and sugar and put on your favorite apron. It's time to learn How to Cook Like a Southerner.

In the days before the attack on Pearl Harbor, America was largely focused on the war in Europe, but when planes dropped out of a clear blue sky and bombed the American naval base and aerial targets in Hawaii, everything changed in an instant. December 1941 takes you into the moment-by-moment ordeal of a nation waking to war.In December 1941, bestselling author Craig Shirley celebrates the American spirit while reconstructing the events that called it to shine with rare and piercing light. Shirley puts readers on the ground and the thick of the action.Relying on daily news reports from around the country and recently declassified government papers, Shirley sheds light on the crucial diplomatic exchanges leading up to the attack, the policies on the internment of Japanese people living in the U.S. after the assault, and the near-total overhaul of the U.S. economy to prepare for war.Shirley paints a compelling portrait of pre-war American culture--from the fashion and the celebrities to common pastimes. His portrait of America at war is just as vivid, highlighting:The surge in heroism, self-sacrifice, mass military enlistments, and national unityThe prodigious talents of Hollywood and Tin Pan AlleyTroubling price-controls and rationing, federal economic takeover, and censorshipFeaturing colorful personalities including Franklin Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, U.S. Secretary of State Cordell Hull, and General Douglas MacArthur, December 1941 highlights a period of profound change in American government, foreign and domestic policy, law, economics, and business, chronicling the developments day by day through that singular and momentous month.December 1941 features surprising revelations, amusing anecdotes, and heart-wrenching stories, and also explores the unique religious and spiritual dimension of a culture under assault on the eve of Christmas. Before the attack on Pearl Harbor, the closest thing to war for the Americans was uncoordinated, mediocre war games in South Carolina.Less than thirty days later, by the end of December 1941, the nation was involved in a battle for the preservation of its very way of life--a battle that would forever change the nation and the world.

Growing up is hard to do—especially when, technically, you're already grown up. You yearn for the days when you could play with your toys and retire to your bedroom for a much needed nap. You were fed, you were clothed, but now you're left to figure it all out on your own. Now that you're twenty-something, there are so many things that you need to do, and seemingly, no one to tell you how... until now. Launch Your Life is a practical guide to navigating life's twists and turns, and to achieving success in all you do. You'll social network with the best of them, write a killer resume, land an interview, and transition into the working world with ease. You'll also deal with changing relationships with friends and family, you'll pray hard, grow in your faith, and you'll even learn to turn your failures into future successes. With Launch Your Life you'll be prepared, organized, and ready to set yourself up for a smooth transition into your new life of independence. Features include: Two interior pockets to keep papers, receipts, and notes scribbled on napkins Blank calendar and note pages to jot notes and juggle appointments Plastic slots to hold business cards Chapter dividers to help you quickly find what you need A built-in elastic band to help you keep it all togetherAs one who is passionate about doing life and ministry with young adults, I'm always looking for resources to recommend. Launch Your Life made me stand up and cheer with excitement as there is nothing like it out on the market. The helpful checklists as well as the tell-it-like-it-is honest truth about LIFE will guide and direct young adults to do what the book promises: launch into adulthood, fully prepared. I can't recommend this book enough. If you are ready to jump into the real world, Launch Your Life by Kenny Silva is a must read.~Sarah Francis Martin, author of Stress Point: Thriving Through Your Twenties In A Decade Of Drama

Nine-year-old Leah's invisible friend seems harmless enough...until she begins to paint the future. Suddenly, the townspeople are divided between those who see her as a prophet and those who fear the danger she represents. Caught in the middle is Leah's agnostic father, who clashes with a powerful town pastor over Leah's prophecies and what to do about them.Leah is a child from Away, isolated from her peers because of her stutter. After her family moves to Mattingly, she begins painting scenes that are epic in scope, brilliant in detail, and suffused with rich, prophetic imagery. When the event foreshadowed in the first painting dramatically comes true, the town takes notice.Leah attributes her ability to foretell the future to an invisible friend she calls the Rainbow Man. Some of the townsfolk are enchanted with her. Others fear her. But there is one thing they all agree on—there is no such thing as the Rainbow Man.The town minister is unraveled by the notion that a mere child with no formal training may be hearing from God more clearly than he does.While the town bickers over what to do with this strange child, the content of Leah's paintings grows darker. Still, Leah insists that the Rainbow Man's heart is pure.Then a dramatic and tragic turn of events leaves the town reeling and places everyone's lives in danger. The people of Mattingly face a single choice: will they cling to what they know... or embrace the things Leah believes in that cannot be seen?Supernatural standalone novel Includes discussion questions for book clubs Other books by Billy Coffey: Snow Day, Paper Angels, The Devil Walks in Mattingly, and In the Heart of the Dark Wood

Ethan and Sophie long to share a future together. But the secrets they're not sharing could tear them apart.Sophie Caldwell has returned to Hickory Ridge, Tennessee, after years away. Despite the heartaches of her childhood, Sophie is determined to make a home, and a name, for herself in the growing town. A gifted writer, she plans to resurrect the local newspaper that so enchanted her as a girl.Ethan Heyward's idyllic childhood was shattered by a tragedy he has spent years trying to forget. An accomplished businessman and architect, he has built a majestic resort in the mountains above Hickory Ridge, drawing wealthy tourists from all over the country.When Sophie interviews Ethan for the paper, he is impressed with her intelligence and astounded by her beauty. She's equally intrigued but fears he will reject her if he learns about her shadowed past. Just as she summons the courage to tell him, Ethan's own past unexpectedly and violently catches up with him, threatening not only his life but their budding romance.“Pure Southern delight! Dorothy Love weaves a stirring romance... that uplifts and inspires the heart.” —Tamera Alexander, best-selling author of The Inheritance and A Lasting Impression

One day in the life of Christ.Call it a tapestry of turmoil: A noisy pictorial in which the golden threads of triumph knot against the black, frazzled strings of tragedy.Call it a symphony of emotions: A sunrise-to-sunset orchestration of extremes. One score is brassy with exuberance -- the next moans with sorrow.Whatever you call it -- call it real. Author Max Lucado calls it'the second most stressful day in the life of our Savior.'Before the morning becomes evening Jesus has reason to weep, then run, then shout, the curse, then praise, then doubt. Within a matter of moments his world is turned upside down.Sound familiar? The pink slip comes. The doctor calls. The divorce papers arrive. The check bounces. The life that had been calm is now chaotic. The world that had been serene is now stormy. Assailed by doubts. Pummeled by demands.If you've ever wondered if God in heaven can relate to you on earth, then read and re-read this pressure-packed day in the life of Christ. It is the only day, aside from the crucifixion, that all four gospels recorded. Lucado has interwoven their accounts in such a way that you will be assured that God knows how you feel.And you will be assured that within every torrent there is a calm center -- a place you can stand when your world gets windy. The Eye of the Storm.

A map, written in code and hidden in the gospel of Matthew, reveals a truth so explosive it could rock the foundations of Christianity—or lead to its rebirth. A cleric appears out of the rain-spattered darkness, bearing a mysterious message: A long-lost map with the power to transform men is on the verge of being discovered. Thrown headlong into a global chase, author David Murrow must race to find the map before it falls into the wrong hands and disappears forever. The Map, which begins as an action thriller and then transitions into a modern-day parable, reveals the path every great man – including Christ himself – has walked. In this dynamic follow-up to the best-selling Why Men Hate Going to Church, Murrow cleverly translates the masculine spiritual life into an actual, ink-on-paper map. Then he shows men where to find the map in the New Testament and how to walk its ancient paths today.

Without a TraceBree thinks a plane crash took the lives of her husband and young son, but her son Davy survived the accident. Can she find him before it's too late?It's been months since the crash. K-9 search-and-rescue worker Bree Nicholls knows the chances of finding her husband and son in the vast wilderness of Michigan's Upper Peninsula grow more remote by the day. But her heart and her faithful dog, Samson, demand she keep searching.Deep in the woods a young boy wakes in a tiny cabin. He's being nursed back to health by a reclusive woman, but he can't figure out why she calls him by a name he doesn't recognize. Or why she's calling herself his mother. He wants to leave, but as winter sets in, his very life depends on her care.Meanwhile, Bree's relentless determination to find her family has uncovered a violent crime. With the help of Park Ranger Kade Matthews, she discovers the violence may be linked to the plane crash that took her family. Could solving the crime bring her peace with her own loss? Or, more incredibly, reunite her family?Set in the untamed beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the Rock Harbor novels draw readers into the life and adventures of a canine search-and-rescue team as it unravels the secrets of an enchanting wilderness.“Colleen is a master storyteller.” —Karen Kingsbury, New York Times Best-Selling AuthorThe Blue Bottle ClubFour friends gathered in a cold, dusty attic on Christmas day to make a solemn pact.“Our dreams for the future,” they whispered, placing tiny pieces of paper into a shimmering blue bottle.But that event happened in 1929, and it is decades later when local news reporter Brenna Delaney stumbles upon that bottle... and into the most meaningful story of her career.Life has taken those four girls'dreams of love, fame, and faith on a path fraught with seduction, betrayal, and loss. Little has turned out as expected—and yet every choice, every tear has led each of them to a special place.Brenna's search will uncover the secrets of that Blue Bottle Club... and her own life will never be the same.“A beautiful novel about friendship and the power of faith to renew our dreams.” —Angela Hunt, author of Magdalene

They were willing to pay the ultimate price to help the people they'd come to love.March 15, 2004?Carrie McDonnall and her husband, David, had just spent the day surveying refugee camps. They were in a hurry to reach the safety of their home before nightfall. Suddenly, the crowded street they were on became eerily quiet. And then, out of nowhere came an explosion of bullets and shrapnel...Within hours their tragedy was all over the news. But who was this couple? And what motivated them to risk their lives working in a land torn by centuries of conflict? Here is Carrie and David's captivating story of falling in love with God, with each other?and with the Arab Muslims they were called to serve.This is not only the spell-binding account of a day turned tragic by terrorists-a day that made headlines around the world?but the greater story that the papers never tell: of the mysterious Middle East and its warm-hearted people. As you are transported to this ancient landscape, watching modern events unfold, you'll read of God's Love Story for people everywhere. You'll also witness Carrie's journey toward healing, and discover the renewed reason for hope that we all can have in troubled times.

A comprehensive guide to traveling with your furry (or feathery or scaly) friend, whether across town or across the world.Never leave your pet behind again!Life is much more fulfilling when you take your pet with you. Whether around town or around the world, well-behaved pets are welcome many places. If your pet is of the fur, feather, or scale variety, within the pages of this indispensable guide you will:discover a bounty of pet-friendly solutions, destinations, hotels, and airlineslearn the dos and don'ts of car, taxi, subway, plane, and bus travelfind out what vaccinations and papers your pet will need for traveling abroadget the scoop on how to create a first-aid kit for your pet, and much more!Gayle Martz, former flight attendant and founder of the Sherpa Pet Trading Company, uses her years of experience to create this useful guide to traveling with your pet.

The essence of the Christian life is Jesus-and when everything you do is aimed at glorifying Him, the life-changing consequences are limitless!In this new trade paper edition, best-selling author Franklin Graham and Ross Rhoads offer thirty compassionate yet uncompromising devotionals that will inspire and challenge readers to embrace a life devoted to Jesus. Insightful and personal, All For Jesus helps readers develop the qualities of focused, wholehearted discipleship, while showing how to fully embrace a life lived all for Jesus.

'Martin understands the power of story and he uses it to alter the souls and lives of both his characters and his readers...'--Patti Callahan Henry'Colorful, memorable characters; Southern regional flavor that's drop-dead accurate; and lyrical, intelligent writing make Chasing Fireflies an exceptionally good read.'--Aspiring RetailWhen paramedics find a malnourished six-year-old boy near a burning car that holds a dead woman, they wonder who he is--and why he won't speak. From the New York Times bestselling author of The Mountain Between Us and The Water Keeper comes a story of self-discovery, healing, and hope.On a stifling summer day, an old Chevy Impala ignored the warning signals and was annihilated by the oncoming train. What no one realized until much later was that the driver had paused just before entering the tracks and kicked a small boy out of the car. A small boy with broken glasses who is clutching a notebook with all his might... but who never speaks.Chase Walker was one of the lucky ones. He was in foster care as a child but finally ended up with a family who loved and cared for him. Now, as a journalist for the local paper, he's moved on and put the past behind him. But when he's assigned the story of this young boy, painful, haunting questions about his own childhood begin to rise to the surface.And as Chase Walker discovers, learning the truth about who you are can be as elusive--and as magical--as chasing fireflies on a summer night.Chasing Fireflies is an emotional, powerful story of family, finding your place in the world, and healing.

Four-plus years of classes, tests, research papers, pop quizzes, bottomless cups of coffee, and tons of late night studying have culminated in a gathering of family and friends to celebrate the graduate's solemn-and joyous-march across the platform to receive the coveted'parchment.'But today's graduate, faced with fabulous opportunities and a world of uncertainty, wonders,'What does the future really hold for me?'Follow Your Dreams weaves together true-life stories, practical advice and principles, quotes, Bible verses, and a healthy dose of humor to encourage graduates to face their bright new future with a renewed sense of faith and optimism.The theme of Follow Your Dreams is developed around these topical sections of keen interest to graduates: Expressing Gratitude for Where You've Come From; Celebrating Who You Are as a Person; Cultivating Your Gifts; Feeding Your Soul; Overcoming Adversity; and Living with Faith.

July Fourth: New York CityHundreds of thousands line the banks of the East and Hudson Rivers awaiting the nation's largest fireworks display. Soon the sky will explode in cascading showers of silver and gold. Everywhere, faces will turn skyward in wide-eyed wonder.Then the sky will grow dark again—but it will not be empty. The air will be filled with clouds of smoke and specks of debris will rain down everywhere. Some will pick bits of paper from their children's hair. Some will brush away still-burning sparks or embers. And some will absentmindedly scratch at the tiny, biting specks that dot their necks and arms.Will the beginning of the show mark the beginning of the end?That's what FBI agent Nathan Donovan must decide. When he is forced to enlist the help of ex-wife Macy Monroe, and expert in the psychology of terrorism, the fireworks really begin—but she may be the only one who can help him stop the Plague maker in time.“Plague Maker is a novel that can proudly be shelved beside any [book] featuring Crichton or Clancy and hold its own.”—www.infuzemag.com

In this book, cats share their observations about how funny and cute YOU are.If you get upset when your person touches your tail one day, and then the next day you like it when they touch your tail, they're going to wonder why you're messing with their heads like that. Excellent. Your job is done.People say a thousand years ago cats were worshipped as gods. That implies this is no longer the case. Aren't people CUTE when they're in denial?People make a big fuss when you unravel the entire roll of toilet paper. Well, if you can think of a way to spin that thing for, like, five minutes WITHOUT unrolling it, I'd like to hear it.Cats are complex creatures and humans could learn a lot from the fickle and aloof way the feline mind works. Cat lovers will enjoy this and cat haters will have all their fears confirmed—your cat is smarter than you, is better than you, and is plotting something sinister. Includes illustrations!

By God's design, romance is supposed to be the flame in the fireplace of marital intimacy. Yet far too many Christian couples feel cheated because their marriage produces as much spark as a book of wet matches. Others have neglected to fan the flames of passion for so long that they have lost hope of experiencing romance. Rekindling the Romance, now available in trade paper, is organized into short, biblically-based chapters. Packed with practical insight, this tastefully candid and inviting resource provides the Christian couple with the keys to unlock their relational and sexual intimacy.

Best-selling author and trusted Bible teacher Henry Blackaby, along with his son Richard, President of Canadian Baptist Seminary, demonstrates through the life of Joshua how God prepares those He chooses for spiritual leadership.In Created to Be God's Friend, Henry Blackaby explored the life of Abraham, and in Chosen to Be God's Prophet, he examined God's work through Samuel. In Called to Be God's Leader, now in trade paper, readers will see how God applies leadership principles in the life of the great biblical leader Joshua. What did God have in mind when He saw Joshua as a young slave in Egypt? How did He mold and shape Joshua to prepare him for service? Through Joshua and numerous examples from their own lives, the authors create a picture of God's ways, offering deep insight that readers can apply to their own lives. Purpose, Obedience, Faith, Character, and Influence are among the themes that are included in this book; key truths are emphasized at the end of each chapter.

In My Big Fat Greek Diet, Dr. Nick Yphantides teaches readers the powerful 7 Pillars of Weight Loss, which features medically safe, practical how-tos anyone can apply, whether they need to lose 10 or 300 pounds. Analyzing components of a variety of diets, Dr. Nick assists readers in customizing a weight-loss program to their specific needs and lifestyles.Topping out at 467 pounds, Dr. Nick was known in San Diego as a big man with a big heart. When a battle with cancer inspired him to focus on his own health, he embarked on a lifestyle change that would drop him to a svelte 200 pounds. His book, now in trade paper, will inspire and equip readers to design a program that allows them to experience their own weight-loss miracle!

Every book by best-selling author Charles R. Swindoll shares one quality-the rare ability to touch the reader with positive and assuring words of encouragement. This book is a collection of some of the most uplifting thoughts on paper from one of the most beloved and personable authors of our day. In a world touched by storms, conflicts, and heartache, Encouragement for Life reminds us where we can find the Eternal Source of encouragement and hope.

Is it really possible to simplify your life? The answer is a resounding'yes,'if you know the necessary steps to unclutter your life and lifestyle. Get the inside scoop from professional organizer Marcia Ramsland and begin to solve your life management issues like a pro. With fast-paced, step-by-step instructions, Marcia walks you through refreshing new ways to manage your daily schedule, your life at home and at work, and special seasons of your life such as parenting, the holidays, and transitions.Simplify Your Life reveals do-able tips and practical systems using Marcia's trademark'PuSH'Sequence?an acronym for Project, you (the key component), System, Habit?which not only gets you organized but help you stay that way. Tips include how to:Create the illusion of a clean home in just minutes each dayPredict a pending time crunch... and sail through itDissolve any paper pile by answering three key questionsPower through projects you never get around toLearn how to put things back together when everything falls apartOffering practical solutions designed to change your life immediately, this simplified style of living gives you and your loved ones more time to do the things you really enjoy?starting today.

The New Life Journal helps you to begin. Not only will this beautifully designed book inspire you to put pen to paper, it will provide the tools you need to work through your feelings. Each section explores a different emotion such as fear, loneliness, despair, and depression. Thought-provoking questions will help you write about your deepest hurts and fears and replace those negative feelings with love, courage, forgiveness, compassion, and peace.

When 24-year-old Savannah learns her mother arranged for her to win a fiction contest, she decides that her mother's drastic meddling calls for drastic countermeasures.Though first place in a fiction contest guarantees that 24-year-old Savannah Phillip's novel will be published, she soon discovers that her mother—Savannah, Georgia's most charming, if diva-like citizen—is behind her literary win. So, mortified and furious, she resolves to give up her dreams of literary fame.Savannah rejects the coveted publishing contract and returns to her hometown, to prove to her parents, her city, and herself, that she is someone who shouldn't be messed with. Someone who's someone, without her mother's assistance. Someone who can write an unforgettable story all by herself, thank you very much. Following in the footsteps of her career hero, a columnist for The Savannah Chronicle, Savannah gets a job at the paper and sets out to take the journalism world by a storm.Her very first assignment is a quest for truth, investigating what appears to be a rigged beauty pageant. Journey with Savannah as she forges new dreams, uncovers the heartache of loss, and comes to terms with her unique calling.Charming contemporary fictionPart of the Savannah series:Book 1: Savannah from SavannahBook 2: Savannah Comes UndoneBook 3: Savannah by the SeaIncludes discussion questions for book clubs

Dads have a special way of relating to children. They tend to rough-house and tease children more than moms do. It is usually a father who teaches a child how to shoot a free throw, catch a frog, or fix a broken bicycle chain. Knowing how to do these things raises a child's self-esteem, increases self-confidence, and fosters self-reliance because they expand a child's ability to cope with and understand the world. Each of the 101 secrets in this wonderful gift book is explained in short descriptions accompanied by a drawing and a fact or tip. Many of these skills involve a simple secret to do them successfully. Knowing these secrets will enable any dad to look like a hero to his children. Included are instructions for... How to fly a kite How to find the north star How to skip a rock How to make a paper airplane How to tie a necktie How to change a spark plug How to carve a whistle How to bait a hook How to pitch a tent How to identify five icky things under a rock Which properties to buy in Monopoly How to tell how tall a tree is How to whistle with a blade of grass How to photograph lightning'The perfect gift for any father, grandfather, or mother who wants to teach children skills that will increase self confidence, raise self-esteem, and foster self-reliance.'- Nashville Lifestyles

This charming hardcover mini-book includes entries from all three volumes of Life's Little Instruction Book™ and other books by H. Jackson Brown, Jr. on the subject of What Really Matters. In addition, it features new material written and complied exclusively for this volume.Distinctive in beauty and presentation, the'Treasure Book'series is elegantly designed and printed on the finest paper. They are the perfect gift for those times when you want something more meaningful than a traditional greeting card.

Four friends gathered in a cold, dusty attic on Christmas day to make a solemn pact.“Our dreams for the future,” they whispered, placing tiny pieces of paper into a shimmering blue bottle.But that event happened in 1929, and it is decades later when local news reporter Brenna Delaney stumbles upon that bottle... and into the most meaningful story of her career.Life has taken those four girls'dreams of love, fame, and faith on a path fraught with seduction, betrayal, and loss. Little has turned out as expected—and yet every choice, every tear has led each of them to a special place.Brenna's search will uncover the secrets of that Blue Bottle Club... and her own life will never be the same.“A beautiful novel about friendship and the power of faith to renew our dreams.”—Angela Hunt, author of Magdalene

Discover the extraordinary depth and wisdom of the Bible for yourself!For over 50 years, The Open Bible has been a trusted resource for exploring and understanding Scripture. Join the millions who have navigated the treasures of God's Holy Word with a powerful collection of topical tools, outlines, cross-references, articles, and more. With this time-tested Bible, you can trace the interconnected themes from Genesis to Revelation, easily find key teachings, and appreciate the beauty of this divinely inspired 66-book masterpiece.Features include:Topical Index to the Bible—This easy-to-navigate feature quickly displays the scriptural connections between more than 8,000 names, places, concepts, events, and doctrines.Concordance—Quickly find the Bible verses you're looking for with over 3,500 word entries with over 9,300 Scripture references.The Visual Survey of the Bible—The detailed 24-page visual overview of the Bible unfolds the people, events, and themes of scripture at a glance. Life application notes crystallize central spiritual truths.Bible Book Introductions—Extensive at-a-glance outlines plus a detailed overview of the overview help broaden your perspective of each book.How to Study the Bible—Expert advice for both personal and family Bible study, plus helpful principles of Bible interpretation.Over 200 Word StudiesOver 40 Charts, Maps, and IllustrationsStarred Messianic Prophecies—420 stars in the OT and NT denoting prophecies about JesusThe Christian's Guide to the New Life—A complete doctrinal overview of Scripture divided into 32 “Christian Guides,” supported by hundreds of scripture references.And more: The Scarlet Thread of Redemption,, Read Your Bible Through the Year, 60 Days Through the Story of Scripture reading plan, Between the Testaments, Teachings and Illustrations of Christ, Prophecies of the Messiah Fulfilled in Christ, The Parables of Jesus Christ, The Miracles of Jesus Christ, A History of the Twelve Apostles, The English Bible and Its Development, The History of the Red Letter Bible, Facts about the Bible, The Laws of the Bible, Detailed Maps, A Harmony of the Gospels, and still more.