NEW RELEASES

THESE BOOTS WEREN'T MADE FOR WALKING

Willing to make the necessary sacrifices–even skipping the occasional latte–to ensure career success, 31-year-old Cassidy Cantrell "invests" in a chic pair of boots, certain they'll make a spectacular impression and help seal the deal on a long-anticipated promotion from her Seattle employer.

But the boots prove to be the high fashion edge of a life slump.

This sassy and hilarious novel leads readers on a romp through the wilds of relationships, romance, career, and spirituality, revealing that, while God's plans may look drastically different than our own, it'll always be a perfect fit.

WaterBrook Press
ISBN 978-1-4000-7313-9
Read an excerpt

"Melody Carlson has crafted a brilliant, kick-up-your-heels, laugh-out-loud winner. Welcome to the Chick Lit side of the bookshelf, Sisterchick. Keep 'em coming!" –ROBIN JONES GUNN, best-selling author of the Sisterchicks novels and the Christy Miller series

Praise for Melody Carlson
"... any story by Carlson is worth encountering."
–BOOKLIST

"Melody Carlson's style is mature and bitingly funny, and her gift for connecting our heart to the character's plight also connects us to the complicated human condition and our need for one another."
–PATRICIA HICKMAN, best-selling author of Fallen Angels and Sandpebbles

"Melody Carlson never fails to drag us out of our Christian easy chairs and right into the coals of the confusing culture in which we all find ourselves. She never fails to reveal that place of compassion within each of us. Excellent."
–LISA SAMSON, author of The Church Ladies and Tiger Lillie

From Publishers Weekly
"...a fun specimen of Christian chick lit...introduc[ing] a charming new protagonist, Cassidy Cantrell...a terrifically likable character, and readers will enjoy following her exploits.

ON THIS DAY

As One Marriage Begins,
Five Others Are Put to the Test.

Drawn to Lakeside Inn from a variety of locations as diverse as they are, Elizabeth Anderson, Suzette Burke, Ingrid Campbell, Margaret Simpson, and Laura Fairbanks–the bride's aunt, family friend, bridesmaid, grandmother of the bride, and sister of the groom–seemingly share little more than their collective joy for the couple marrying at the mountain resort. During the course of one unforgettable day, however, each woman reaches a point of reckoning in her own most intimate relationship.

As their stories unfold, the women of necessity turn to one another–upholding each other through the pain of postpartum depression, doubts about an upcoming wedding, the discovery of a husband's affair, reflections on the ups and downs of life as a war bride, and plans to end a 25-year marriage. Through it all, their connection with one another deepens and grows, as does their understanding of themselves and of the healing power of love, perseverance, and friendship.

WaterBrook Press
Read an excerpt

"Carlson deftly plays point and counterpoint among these intriguing women of contrasting backgrounds and desires. Personalities carry the story with much under the surface."
--Romantic Times

"The choice of a wedding setting is perfect, since what woman doesn't re-evaluate her marriage or dating relationship when attending another woman's Big Event? As Margaret says, "I suppose weddings do that to us, make us remember when we were young brides." The faith touches are extraordinarily light and fit seamlessly into the text. Carlson also throws in a few nice twists that will catch the reader by surprise, and doesn't feel that she has to tie up the loose ends for every character. This is a fun, enjoyable read that should appeal to women of all ages."
--FaithfulReader.com

"...Any story by Carlson is worth encountering."
--Booklist

'Fans of this popular CBA author will enjoy this yarn..." --Library Journal

"The story progresses seamlessly as it moves from character to character..."
--Publishers Weekly

This book is quintessential Melody Carlson who is, by the way, one of my favorite authors. Written in a sensitive, clear fashion, it captures, with poignancy, the nuances of life experienced by women at different ages. This story illustrates the commonality of the feminine experience, the role of faith, and coming to terms with the stress of being a woman, at any age. I really enjoyed this book and its message. This is a must read, especially for fans of Melody Carlson.
--The Romance Readers Connection

THE CHRISTMAS BUS

It's only two weeks before Christmas and Edith Ryan is disappointed to learn that none of her children are coming home to Christmas Valley for the holidays. Her large house, which doubles as the The Shepherd's Inn the rest of the year, will feel so empty without them. and it's too late to open the Inn for Christmas reservations--surely everyone else has their plans made by now. In a town where Christmas is a way of life all year long, going through the holidays alone is just about enough to bring her to tears.

Suddenly, Edith knows what she has to do--she'll invite strangers to book those rooms usually reserved for family during the week of Christmas. When the guest list shapes up to include a cantankerous old woman and a mysterious young couple with a broken-down hippie bus and a baby on the way, Edith wonders if she made the right choice. Will it blow up in her face? Or could she be entertaining angels unaware?

Revell

This is an enjoyable, quick Christmas story that will delight readers. Melody Carlson can always be counted upon to craft a story that delves into the lives of her colorful characters. In THE CHRISTMAS BUS she gives us a beautiful glimpse into small town life, the power of spiritual belief, and the rewards of helping others. This is a perfect story to read at holiday time and should not be missed.
--The Romance Readers Connection

MY SON, THE SAVIOR: A MOTHER'S STORY
A Novella

Captures Mary's story as she grew from a young, vulnerable girl to a grown woman witnessing Jesus's agonizing death and then, miraculously, his resurrection. It imagines Mary's deepest emotions and richest experiences as the mother of God's own Son.

Readers will feast on this poignant tale rife with motherly love, deepening faith, worry and despair, and ultimately eternal hope as envisioned by one of today's most beloved authors. My Son, the Savior is a faith-inspiring gift for a loved one-ideal for Mother's Day, Easter, or any time readers want to lift up and encourage a friend.

Revell

"Poignantly told, Mary's struggle resonates with the human heart as we walk through a world twisted by sin and the rebellious will of man. Carlson's gifted pen brings Mary and other biblical characters to three-dimensional life.
--Romantic Times

"...readers of Biblical fiction will discover some new insights through Carlson's portrayal of the mother of God."
--FaithfulReader.com

BACK HOME AGAIN

The sleepy town of Acorn Hill is in for a surprise when the three Howard sisters reunite after the death of their father. Each has inherited a share of his worn-down Victorian house, and they dream of turning the family home into a bed-and-breakfast.

But these three women are as different as siblings can be--can they survive living together, let alone going into business together? It looks like their dream may be headed for disaster. Only by learning to work together, trusting in God and accepting a little help from their friends can the three sisters see Grace Chapel Inn open its doors.

GuidepostsBooks
Read an excerpt

"Between these cozy book covers you will enjoy a delightful visit with the three Howard sisters of Acorn Hill. They are sure to bring you a smile."
--Robin Jones Gunn, bestselling author of The Glenbrooke novels.

"Acorn Hill, Pennsylvania, is a place you want to move to, just so you can lift your kitchen curtain and watch the lively Howard sisters in action down the street. If you have a sister, you'll know what I mean."
--Cathie Pelletier, author of The Weight of Winter.