Into the Fire

I barely made it for my traditional "Christmas in October" recommended reading selections. Novels of course. But I can think of no better day to mention Christmas, the season for giving. The numbers are down this year, but no less mandantory reading. So, here we go.

Mystery/Suspense/Police Procedural

the mountains bow down by Sibella Giorello

This is the fourth novel in the Raleigh Harmon Series, and it's superb. Do someone on your list a wonderful service by buying them all four of Sibella's novels. You'll score big points with this gift because of both the writing and the stories.

Pattern of Wounds by J. Mark Bertrand

This is the second novel in the Roland March series. The first is Back on Murder. Again, buy both of these novels for full impact and gain great appreciation from those readers who love noir police procedurals with wonderful writing.

Over the Edge by Brandilyn Collins

Who would think a story that reveals so much about Lyme Disease could be so suspenseful? Well, it is. A very exciting (and informative) book by Brandilyn Collins.

The Corruptible by Mark Mynheir

The second novel about crusty PI and former homicide detective Ray Quinn. Well done, unique characters, interesting story in this series.

Thrillers

The Queen by Steven James

One of the premiere thriller writers. The fifth novel in the Patrick Bowers Series. Buy them all. They're worth it.

Speculative

Vigilante by Robin Parrish

This is not my favorite category, but Robin writes an exciting, fascinating story. Recommended for young adults and adults.

Forbidden by Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee

I haven't read this yet, but there are many who have and are excited about it. I'm partial to Tosca's writing, and Ted has a vivid and often scary imagination. The first in a trilogy.

The Resurrection by Mike Duran

An interesting tale of a resurrection that causes all kinds of spiritual awakenings in a small town.

Magical Realism

The Opposite of Art by Athol Dickson 

An exploration in the real and surreal. An imaginative experience with quality writing.

Contemporary

Resurrection in May by Lisa Samson

Quality writing, touching interesting story.

Words by Ginny Yttrup

A redemptive story of a child who's learned to survive horrors no child should ever endure by storing words she doesn't speak.

Women's Fiction with a touch of Romance

beneath the Night Tree by Nicole Baart

The story of a single mom who must reconcile with the father of her child. Touching, meaningful.

The Reluctant Prophet by Nancy Rue

The story of a woman who grudgingly recognizes her place in God's kingdom. Full of quirks and interesting characters who ride Harley's.

Short Stories

Shadow Catalyst by Brayden Hirsch

The fascinating speculative collection by a young writer with a big imagination and grounded writing skills. For young adults and adults. 

Father, thank you for calling people to write stories. Thank you for giving the gift of words and plots. You're the Author of Life. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.