UNSEEN 99 Cents Today

Life for Jake Paris is stable and ordinary--until a mysterious old woman pays him a visit and he begins to have encounters with unruly children everywhere he goes—children only he can see. 

When Jake's estranged sister, Holly, finds herself the target of a national serial killer who has chosen her son as his next victim, Jake begins to wonder if there is a connection. Could these children be the ghosts of the killer's victims?

As the kidnapper's plan unfolds, Jake uncovers a startling secret about the unseen children that will change his life forever--and Holly discovers just how far she is willing to go to save her son. Unseen is a riveting story of rescue, restoration, and romance that will leave you thinking long after the last page has been turned.



Find out why readers who hate this book read it all the way to the end. This is one pro life story you will never forget.


AMAZON REVIEWS

"Hileman is a marvelous storyteller with a perspective unlike any other author I've come across... Every life is precious. If you don't know that now, you will after reading this book."

"There is a spiritual edge to the book that is both subtle yet poignant, allowing you to hear truth without it being overbearing or offensive. In fact, its downright lovely... I read Unseen, and turned around and read it a second time..."

"Unseen has it all: a fascinating plot that grabbed my attention from page one, a great pace that kept the pages turning and a deep richness that still has me thinking."

"This is a must read! John has really captured my heart with this story."

"I do not normally read murder mysteries, but loved this one. No grisly, gruesome details, great character development, just a little bit of romance. Loved the ending."

"The cover caught my attention first, then the synopsis was intriguing but when I started this book it spoke for itself. Grabbing my interest immediately I became involved with the characters. Seeing ghost children, a kidnapped child, an unusual friend and a drama queen for a girlfriend...where would this story end? My first book by this author but I will be searching for others."

"Suddenly you are transported into a world of unborn babies and you realize the depth of the truth about abortion. This pro-life thriller is an excellent read and I highly recommend it."

"From beginning to end this book's characters, storyline and rich message kept me page turning all day. Beware: the dishes will just have to wait!"

"...read Unseen!! You'll find yourself clenching your teeth and staying up late, all while contemplating the way you view life and the importance of a mother's role to her children."

"This book powerfully touched every raw emotion within me..."

"John Hileman has done it again! His latest creation is riveting, page turning, and thought provoking."

"What more can I say!! This is the only book I have ever read in one day!!"

"A story with substance...well-scripted, emotionally challenging and fulfilling"

Dee Henderson: Full Disclosure

Full Disclosure by Dee Henderson
Review by Heather Harden

For five years I’ve been eagerly anticipating a new book from author Dee Henderson. But when my copy of “Full Disclosure” finally arrived I was hesitant to start reading. Would it live up to my expectations? Short answer: yes!

“Full Disclosure” is trademark Henderson-page turning romantic suspense with characters you keep caring about long after the book is done.

I was intrigued by the synopsis:

The Lady Shooter, a hired gun responsible for dozens of murders, has managed to keep her trail cold. Though she’s long been inactive, Special Agent Paul Falcon refuses to give up the hunt. Then, Midwest Homicide Investigator Ann Silver seemingly appears out of nowhere and drops the best lead on the case that he’s had in years. But Ann leaves him with more than just good evidence—he also has a strong desire to get to know this clever cop better. Is he prepared for both the case’s and Ann’s secrets?

A woman bad guy who for years has slipped out the grasp of the FBI’s top cop. The heroine of romance novel who is comfortable single and not looking for marriage. That alone was enough to start me reading.

“Full Disclosure” is one of those rare books that doesn’t need a genre label beyond excellent book. Henderson’s sharp dialogue, meticulous detail and genuine emotion are enough to draw in any reader regardless of what kind of story you’re looking for. Guys you’ll enjoy Henderson’s books, I promise! Don’t let the romance label turn you off. And for romance readers, don’t let the suspense label scare you. Though if you’re prone to bad dreams, don’t read this title too close to bedtime.

“Full Disclosure” is Christian fiction but this is a book that you can give to anyone who’s just looking for a good read. The spiritual aspect of the story is seamlessly woven into the plot. The character’s faith journey is a natural extension of their life. I would recommend “Full Disclosure” to fans of James Patterson, Nora Roberts, Karen Kingsbury, or Nicholas Sparks.

While Henderson sticks to the same formula of danger, romance and faith that has won her awards and loyal readers, this latest novel shows that Henderson isn’t afraid to take chances in her writing. Both the suspense and romantic plots dig deeper than any of Henderson’s previous titles. The maturity of Ann and Paul is reflected in their romance and in their relationships with family, coworkers, and God.

As a bonus, readers of Henderson’s O’Malley series will appreciate catching up with Lisa, Kate and the rest of the family. Ann also reveals a fun surprise that will please longtime fans while sending new readers of Henderson’s books looking for the rest of her titles. My favorite Dee Henderson titles are “The Truth Seeker” or “True Devotion” but you can read first chapters of all her books at www.deehenderson.com.

Some books I read it one sitting. But I took my time to savor each page of “Full Disclosure.” I hope it doesn’t have to hold me over for another five years, though!



More reviews from Heather Harden can be read at Our Advocate: http://ouradvocate.wordpress.com/


DEE HENDERSON BOOKS AT AMAZON

Nikki Arana: Thriller

The Next Target by Nikki Arana
Review by Mary A. Hake

The title of this riveting novel may sound like a mystery thriller. In a way it is, but not as you might expect. The Next Target delivers a behind-the-scenes view of a radical Muslim plot to turn America into an Islamic nation. Muslims who dare to explore or accept Christian truths face threats and even death. Set in California, this story feels too true and will open your eyes to what could actually be occurring right now.

A young female student in Austia’s English language class is the victim of an honor killing because she turned to Christ. Zaki, a new Muslim employee at the Career Center, prompts suspicion. Is he trying to learn more about Austia’s true purpose behind teaching Muslim women to speak English? Austia’s husband had been killed trying to share Christ in his Kuwait homeland. Will his widow also become a casualty in this spiritual battle?

Nikki Arana’s powerful tale works its way into your heart. I believe this is a life-changing book that will make readers think about the potential of current issues and how they could make a difference. It has made me more aware of how Muslims think and motivates me to pray for their eyes to be opened to God’s truth.


BOOKS BY NIKKI ARANA

Romantic Suspense: Camy Tang

Protection for Hire by Camy Tang
Review by Heather Harden
Heather Harden runs the blog Our Advocate 


I’ve been told by more than one person (Mom and Amber) that I can be obnoxious when I predict the ending of TV crime shows and chick flicks.

Once you know the formula it’s easy to know the ending long before the last commercial break.

I’m a bookworm and to me books are far better than TV. So when I’m reading I crave a book that keeps me eagerly turning (or tapping) the pages until the last sentence. My standards for books are much higher than TV shows.

Camy Tang must have taken a cue from her days in the lab when she came up with the formula for “Protection For Hire.” She took the basic ingredients of romantic suspense and added in a kick of her trademark wasabi to create a five-star recipe that will keep you coming back for more!

Tessa Lancaster is a Japanese American with deep family ties. From the age of sixteen Tessa is known on the streets as a violent and ruthless enforcer for the Japanese Mafia (yakuza) until she sacrificed her freedom to protect the family. Fresh out of prison after serving seven years for a crime she didn’t commit, Tessa is free to return to “the family”-literally-the yakuza run by her Uncle Teruo. While in prison, Tessa is set free spiritually, encountering Christ and becoming a Christian.

Tessa sets out on a straight career path, channeling her skills into serving as a bodyguard for wealthy socialite Elizabeth St. Amant and her three-year-old son. But being from the upper crust doesn’t preclude Elizabeth from having problems. The socialite comes with a lot of baggage, including an abusive ex-husband and a missing fortune.

Tessa is grittier than most heroines-she’s trained in martial arts and we get to see her put her skills to the test against a variety of bad guys. She doesn’t doubt her ability to keep her charges safe but she’s going to have a harder time guarding her own heart. The case forces her to work closely with Elizabeth’s lawyer, Charles Britton. Tessa unknowingly lets her guard down to the man who led the charge to lock her up and throw away the key for her supposed crime.

The pair must try to survive assassins, gang rivalries, and exasperating family in their search to give Elizabeth her life back.

It’s not only evil that Tessa is battling. She faces temptation in the form of a disappointed mother, an angry sister and eager uncle who still see Tessa the same as they always have. Tessa must decide whether to handle things herself, the way she did when her life revolved around the yakuza, or fully follow Christ.

I was surprised that one of my favorite characters was Uncle Teruo. Tang does an excellent job of slowly growing his character into a man much deeper than just a caricature of the organized crime boss.

The first few chapters are heavy on description-though it’s integral to the plot and informative about the Asian mob community. The book quickly progresses to a page turning read with strong dialogue, an engrossing plot and characters you’ll care about.

Fans of books by Dee Henderson, Terri Blackstock and Irene Hannon, and fans of female detective including Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series and the Sunny Randall series by Robert B. Parker will enjoy “Protection For Hire.”

Heather Harden is a children’s librarian at a small town library in eastern North Carolina (where the kids make her feel like a super hero--just call her Library Girl.) She always has something in her hand: a book, a pen to write with, a crochet hook, a smartphone, chocolate--and a dust rag and broom when she must. She has worked for her local newspaper and as a freelance journalist. She has a heart for volunteer work in her community. Her favorite organization is Susan's Kids (www.susanskids.com), a Christian charity which provides spiritual and physical support for children in need across the world. For more reviews check her blog at http://ouradvocate.wordpress.com/

BOOKS BY CAMY TANG AT AMAZON

Erin Healy: Supernatural Mystery

Review By Lisa Norsworthy
The Promises She Keeps by Erin Healy



Chase is a 30-year-old autistic man with a savant-like talent for drawing, and a knowledge of trees. He awakes to the voice of his father--who has been missing in action for over ten years--telling him to draw a certain tree.

Porta Cerrato, an aging woman adept at witchcraft, opens an art gallery in Chase’s hometown, and uses her evil craft to influence people, while searching for a person she believes has the key to eternal life.

When Chelsea, Chases’s devoted twin sister, brings Chase on his usual walk over the same route one Saturday, she is shocked to see him deviate from his usual routine and enter Porta’s gallery. The pictures he is being told to draw all have recipients and Chase eerily knows who they are and why they need them.

In the meantime, Porta’s son, Zac, comes to know a young woman with cystic fibrosis. Because she knows her lifetime is limited, she is obsessed with becoming famous so she will not be forgotten.

All of these lives converge into a suspenseful, supernatural story of evil, greed, and the quest for eternal life. But, ultimately, it is child-like love, perception, and loyalty that are victorious. It can be difficult to find a story with supernatural elements that are not contrary to scripture but this tale unfolds in a way that doesn’t leave the Christian reader uncomfortable. Because a main theme of this story was the desire for eternal life, I was left wishing the author had emphasized that Jesus was the only true answer especially in Promise’s quest.

Erin Healy developed the characters nicely, and the uniqueness of this thriller was engaging. I look forward to Healy’s next work.



Book at Amazon by Erin Healy, alone and with Ted Dekker.

        

Supernatural Christian Thriller

Review by Teisha Priest
Visit Teisha's blog at http://www.teishknits.com/

David chance sees messages. They tell him what will happen. One of the messages saved his life, but now they are directing him to take action that could end up costing him his life. Are these messages from the dead? Is it some genetic mutation? Or, could it possibly be God speaking to him? David is just an ordinary guy with a family, but these messages have landed him in the middle of a conspiracy. Will David follow them regardless of the cost? I don’t want to say too much because I don’t want to give the story away! If you enjoy supernatural thrillers, drama, intrigue and action then Messages is right up your alley.

In the very first chapter, David begins seeing messages in the words around him. The story takes off from there and continues its fast pace through to the end. There are enough clues to give us a hint of what’s really going on, but enough twists to still keep us guessing. I stayed up late two nights because I was so intrigued by the story that I couldn’t put it down! The main character is the type of “average-Joe” that most of us can identify with. David is not a believer, but the messages that have embroiled him in extraordinary circumstances also lead him to search for answers.

The book is as much about his spiritual journey as it is about his quest to unravel a terrorist plot. Messages fits into the “speculative fiction” genre, as does John’s first novel, VRIN: ten mortal gods. Even so, it will appeal to those who enjoy dramatic thrillers as well. Messages is a solid second novel for John, and we’ll definitely be watching for his third! If you missed John’s first book, VRIN: ten mortal gods, then you can read my review here. Both of his novels are available through Amazon in Kindle and paperback formats. To keep up with what John is writing, visit his blog.


Interview with Teisha Priest for CFBR

Christian Fiction Book Reviews: You’ve written two novels that have been published so far. Was the writing process pretty much the same for both books, or did you find it different the second time?

John Michael Hileman: Most of VRIN took place in a Fantasy world of my own creation. It's pretty easy to write about a world that doesn't exist. No one can say, "Hey! There aren't any stairs in front of the Blah Blah Blah museum!" When you're writing about a man hunting for a dirty bomb in the streets of Boston, you need to have a working knowledge of Boston and the surrounding area. Since part of my childhood was in the suburbs of Boston, I have a good idea of how things work. The internet filled in the blanks.

CFBR: What drew you to the speculative fiction genre as a writer?JMH: I like being able to create scenes no one has ever created before. Speculative fiction offers a canvas for that kind of out of the box thinking. Plus, alternate realities allow you to examine the principles and precepts of God from another perspective.

CFBR: What has the publishing process been like for you?JMH: Lots and lots of waiting. Writing a book is merely the beginning of a vast journey. If you set foot on the road, prepare your heart to enjoy the walk, because there aren't' many rest stops on the way.

CFBR: What’s been the most difficult part of the writing/publishing process for you?JMH: Overcoming doubt. When I started as a writer, I wanted success, and I feared failure. God has shown me that success is not in the quantity of people who love you, but in the quality of people who love you. It is fair to say, my readers have given me more than I could ever give them. I no longer wonder if I was meant to write, because I have a stack of e-mails from dear friends, who remind me how important what I do is.

Just last night I got a letter from a concerned mother who asked whether or not my latest novel would transform the heart of her Atheist son. I shared this insight. A stonecutter was once asked, "which strike of the hammer broke the stone?" The stonecutter replied, "The first. The last. And every one in between." I don't know if my book will be the strike that breaks her sons hard heart, but knowing that I am partnering with someone of such great character, gives value to the work I put in to writing it.　

CFBR: There has been the suggestion that Christian authors should not write any sort of fantasy/science fiction type novels. What are your thoughts on the topic?JMH: I don't think most Christian outright object to fantasy and science fiction. It is more of a cautious apprehension--at least towards science fiction. As Christians we must guard our minds against the enemy of our souls. He is continually pleading his case through all forms of media. He wants to sow seeds of doubt in our minds, and turn us away from the truth. Since truth is so important, most Christians stick to stories that are grounded in reality. Most science fiction starts with a premise that is a lie, like: in thousands of years mankind will take to the stars and meet other life forms. This premise is silly and fanciful as Gene Roddenberry wrote it. But Christian authors tend to put Biblical truths into everything they write. As soon as you turn Star Trek into an Allegory, you've lost your Christian readers. They cannot take the story as pure fiction, because you've injected the real God into it.

As for Fantasy, that is more of a witchcraft/magic issue. God tells us to avoid such things. And yet, most fantasy stories have some form of it mentioned.

I believe science fiction and fantasy are like firearms. They are only as dangerous as the person wielding them. I don't know about you, but I'm thankful police carry firearms.

CFBR: What are your favorite books? The ones you read over and over.JMH: I did most of my heavy reading before I was right with the Lord. The only books I read over and over--lately-- are mine.

CFBR: When you write, do you prefer background music or quiet?JMH: I like it quiet. I'm easily distracted.

CFBR: Any words of wisdom for aspiring speculative fiction authors?JMH: Tread carefully. You will be accountable for your actions.

CFBR: Do you have any other novels on the horizon that we should be watching for?JMH: Yes I do. But I can't tell you about it. It's super duper top level secret stuff. All I can say is, I've been working on it for the past eight years, and it has one overriding theme: the holiness of God.

CFBR: We will be looking forward to it! Thanks for the interview John!Both Messages and VRIN: ten mortal gods are available through amazon in Kindle and paperback format.