Amid open fields and empty pews, small towns can crush big dreams. Abandoned by his no-good father and forced to grow up too soon, Noble Burden has set his dreams aside to run the family farm. Meanwhile, James Horton, the pastor of the local church, questions his own calling as he prepares to close the doors for good. As a severe storm rolls through, threatening their community and very livelihood, both men fear losing what they care about most . . . and reconsider where they truly belong.

Fleshing out the births and deaths of fifteen post-Civil War communities

In this emotional second-chance romance, a man haunted by his past can't deny the pull to his longtime friend, and they'll soon have to heal their wounds together.

Thanks to his skills with difficult horses, trainer Matthew Tredway has traveled all over the world. And his new gig? The Last Chance Ranch. But after a chance glance at the ranch's hot little blond cook, Matthew's libido is immediately set to sizzle Chef Aurelia Smith has been trying to tempt the ranch hands with mouth-watering concoctions, with less-than-stellar results. But when Matthew is sent in to intervene, his attraction to Aurelia boils over. Before long, they're cooking up a storm, in and out of the bedroom. But Aurelia knows that while she might have led her horseman to bed, she can't make him stay....

The small New England town of Dorsetville is filled with quirky, loveable characters much like those who populated Andy Griffith’s Mayberry. Dorsetville is all aflutter. The housekeeper at St. Cecilia’s rectory, Mrs. Norris, has quit in a huff, and the rectory is beginning to look like a college dorm. Father Dennis could lend a hand, but since his cooking show, The Fat Friar, has gained popularity, he’s become, well, moody. Nellie Anderson and Harry Clifford are about to tie the knot—that is if someone can find the missing wedding invitations. Bungling Deputy Hill has been left in charge since the sheriff is sick, but will the town survive in the meantime? Meanwhile, Father James is helping an ex-convict learn to resume his life. Valerie Kilbourne, a single mother, needs money for a very expensive operation for her twin daughters. And Lori Peterson, who has had her share of tragedies, will be asked to face another. Katherine Valentine’s keen insights into human nature and extraordinary sense of humor make for characters you’ll want to know for years. From the Trade Paperback edition.

Following the murder of their childhood friend, Grace Ann, Ellott—a single, 40-something librarian—and her roommate, Rosie—a divorced mother of three—confront the effects of her death and the flux of their own lives. Set in North Alabama and Birmingham, this richly detailed mystery unfolds a story of obsession, past loyalties, love, murder, and saving grace. Old Time Music, hits from the '60s, and the spirit of Elvis provide a harmonious backdrop.

And Grace Will Lead Me Home is gift for new and seasoned journal writers alike. Using the insights of pilgrimage theology and practice, this guide serves faithful integration for students and others involved in service learning, study abroad, and immersion programs. The prompts spur expanded awareness and description so writers notice the breadth of their experience. Bible verses and quotations from pilgrims across the ages support journaling with perspective, wisdom, and wit. The progression of the guide encourages attentiveness before travelers depart, validates the disconcerting reality of culture shock and liminal spaces, and then supports claiming God's presence and gifts in new discoveries and transformations. And Grace Will Lead Me Home has been tested by undergraduates and seminarians, pastors and lay leaders in a myriad of travel and service opportunities. Journal writers consistently acclaim that the guide serves both breadth and depth in writing and reflection.