I absolutely love Hunter's writing style, her humor and her heart. And the premise of this series is truly heart-felt, looking after the women who have been cast out from society, whether by choices they made or circumstances that were forced upon them.
A Rumored Fortune by Joanna Davidson Politano (Revell)
Politano is a fresh voice, and I've love how both of her novels have gone in unconventional directions. Besides sporting a fun Gothic feel, this one is full of profound analogies between viticulture and Christianity.
The Lieutenant's Bargain by Regina Jennings (Bethany House), Fort Reno, book 2
Jennings always writes fun romances, but this one is set apart by its deference to the American Indians. Historically there's not a lot of good during that time period, at least in terms of relations between the US government and the tribes, and so this book might be a bit on the rosy side, but I was impressed with the dignity she afforded them, especially one school boy.
I just can't resist Jen Turano's books. They are bubbly, infectious stories that can lift the lowest of spirits, even when sick, miserable, and falling asleep every half hour as I was when I read it (yes, not even a virus akin to Mono can derail my joy of a Turano book).
Sons of Blackbird Mountain by Joanne Bischof (Thomas Nelson); Blackbird Mountain, book 1
Bischof takes a daring and unique approach with a hero who is not only deaf, but also a severe alcoholic. She creates an incredibly inspiring story of overcoming, but it is also a heartbreaking story, and I hope for reconciliation in the sequel.
A Song Unheard by Roseanna M White (Bethany House); Shadows Over England, book 2
A family of thieves-turned-spies, brilliant musicians, a daring mission to war-torn Belgium--how can anyone resist?
A dual timeline book, with both a modern and early 20th century storyline, and both are intriguingly dark and mysterious; both suspenseful and bordering on horror, yet tastefully done. So intricately put together. Mmm.
Fantasy:
Christian fantasy is one of subgenres that hasn't impressed me, until this year--now suddenly two of my 10-ish favorite stories from all of 2018 are Christian fantasy novels.
The Wounded Shadow by Patrick W Carr (Bethany House); Darkwater Saga, book 3
Really, one has to read the whole series to get the full impact of this tale (it's more like three parts of one intense story), but this was a spectacular conclusion. It's one of the best Christian fantasy series--actually, one of the best fantasy series either Christian or secular--that I've read in a long time.
Mark of the Raven by Morgan L. Busse (Bethany House); Ravenwood Saga, book 1
This story absolutely captured me. I didn't expect two spectacular Christian fantasy novels in one year (being as I'm so picky), but I loved it and can't wait to find out what happens next. The Wounded Shadow awed me, while Mark of the Raven captured my heart.
And for an honorable mention . . .A Daring Venture by Elizabeth Camden
Though I didn't love this book as much as the first in the series, it wins for the most thought-provoking book of the year. I don't know how many days I mulled over the morality/ethics in the story, and I still can hardly shower without thinking of it (being as it focuses on water purification). And a book that can inspire me to think about it for even months afterwards is one worth a mention!
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