Summer Reading

Although I write contemporary romance, and I read many contemporary romance, historical romance, and romantic suspense novels, I also enjoy books in other genres.

Biblical Fiction

Ahoti: A Story of Tamar by Miriam Feinberg Vamosh and Eva Marie Everson

2 Samuel 13 introduces us to King David’s beautiful daughter Tamar, the sister of Absolom, David’s favorite son. She is left a prisoner in her brother Absolom’s house after her reputation is shattered by her half-brother Amnon’s sexual abuse.

Have you ever wondered what happened to Tamar? Here is one possibility.

Ahoti, meaning my sister, is a work of fiction based on historical resources and legend. It introduces Tamar as a king’s daughter longing for her father’s love, a young woman abused by her half-brother and betrayed by the brother she trusts. The reader is taken on Tamar’s journey as she is accused of being an accessory to Amnon’s murder and runs for her life. With her maid and surrogate mother Mara, she searches for a new identity and a place of safety that she can call home. I admire the women’s resourcefulness and courage in a man’s world. As a healer and adopting the persona of a wisewoman, Tamar helps many people overcome physical and mental distress, and she influences current events.

This book brings biblical times to life, but don’t expect a sweet tale. Tamar’s life isn’t easy. Yet, in the darkest moments, Tamar finds faith and hope and the strength to go on.

Contemporary Fiction

Changing Tides by Sue A. Fairchild

This is a contemporary novel that takes the reader on a journey through grief. The viewpoint character is a man. Gabe’ s heart is closed to life, love, and God after his wife’s death. Each day is a struggle as memories and longing engulf him. I’ve not experienced the loss of a spouse, but I believe Sue has drawn an authentic picture of a man working through the stages of grief. You can’t help but love Gabe’s dog Daisy and his wonderful friends who never give up on him. Like the movement of the ocean tides, Gabe’s life becomes more purposeful. He realizes that other people suffer losses and survive, and he rediscovers his faith. Changing Tides is different from the books I usually read, but it was well worth reading.

Historical Fiction

This Is Where It Ends by Cindy K. Sproles

Beginning with the title, this Selah Award winner is a wonderful book to read. A bit of mystery, interesting and wonderful characters, and a picture of Appalachian life add to the attraction.

How often do you get to see life through the eyes of a 94-year-old mountain woman? Minerva Jenkins, lonely and isolated, knows she’s nearing the end of her life. Despite the hardships, she loves her mountain home. Strong and resilient, she only fears dying alone.

When Del Rankin suddenly appears claiming to be a reporter looking for a good story, the reader, like Minerva, suspects he has ulterior motives. Then there’s the secret and the box belonging to her husband Stately that Minerva promised her husband she’d protect from the time of her marriage at fourteen. Minerva knows the secret is in the box, but she’s never opened it. Stately’s been dead thirty years. The question she asks now is, how long does a person keep a secret?

With the arrival of Del, Minerva’s lonely life opens up to love, family, and friendship. But along with Del comes trouble in the form of Del’s friend Colton.

Beth E Westcott