Summertime Reading to the Rescue!
Just when we are beginning to emerge from our safe havens, the Arkansas heat is arriving to chase us back inside. As is our custom, we are providing some suggestions to help you with planning an escape- in the pages of a good book.
First, let’s highlight some Arkansas authors. There are so many to choose from. These four will get you started on the bounty that is produced by some local friends.
If any of you frequent Hot Springs Village, you may know our first author, Suzanne Bratcher. She chose the Ouachita region to be her home several years ago, and brings her familiarity with her former home in Arizona to her mysteries. First was The Copper Box, and now the Silver Lode. They center around an antique dealer who moved to a historic mining town with dark secrets. In the process of solving mysteries, our heroine comes to terms with her own past and her future.
From the Southeast corner of our state, author Candace West writes about the Arkansas Ozarks. Her first book Lane Steen centers around a girl who has had a very difficult upbringing, held back both by the poverty of the turn of the last century, and an abusive father. After being introduced to family members she has lost contact with, her life changes completely, and she begins to be hopeful for the future. Ms. West’s new book, Valley of the Shadows deals with forgiveness and a new start for the whole family.
A very prolific author from a little north and east of the Ouachita area has some new additions to her modern-day cowboy romance selections. Hill Country Redemption tells the story of a rodeo star who has come home to East Texas to begin his career as a stock contractor. He must regain the trust of his former sweetheart, who has also come home to start a new family rodeo. Complicating and connecting their relationship is the heroine’s sweet little girl, who steals the cowboy’s heart. Romance and rodeo make a great mix!
Ms. Vannatter has a new book called The Cowboy’s Missing Memory that comes out this month. Look for it where you buy your favorite Love Inspired books. This author has a reputation for captivating her audiences and entertaining us on those hot, dusty days.
If you enjoy a good cozy mystery, try Pocket Change, by debut author Debbie Archer of Walnut Ridge. The adventure starts when a new bookstore opens in the fictional town of Pocket, Arkansas. Scheduled just before Halloween, the store owner and her Mom decide to add a real coffin to their decor. The salesperson guaranteed it had never been used. But what’s the fun in that? Excitement and intrigue mixed with a healthy dose of humor make this story a delight from start to finish.
This annual list has picked up a few traditions over the years. One is to suggest a book set in the winter time. Getting lost in the magic of Christmas can provide the perfect escape from the heat, and give us hope for the celebrations coming up soon.
The Wedding Dress Christmas by Rachel Hauck continues her tradition of presenting stories with links from the past to the present. At the center of this one is a beautiful wedding dress that seems to be waiting for the perfect bride. This story, set in a southern town at Christmas time features a beautiful young lady and a former beau who provide the right amount of friction to heat up the story. No worries, though. As with all of the romances I recommend, there is nothing too steamy. Good clean, interesting stories with a dash of magic are Ms. Hauck’s specialty.
Another favorite author, Cynthia Ruchti writes fascinating fiction with a very non-traditional premise. My latest discovery, Miles from Where We Started, highlights a young couple who are at a tipping point in their marriage. The young man’s job is to use modern technology to promote products on social media. The latest idea is to pick up on the public’s fascination with tiny houses on wheels to travel across country in a very compact tear-drop camper .All is well, until the man’s boss and partner is forced to back out just before the adventure starts. Needing a companion on his journey, the man invites his reluctant wife, and agrees to take along a teenager who has been staying with his boss. Adventures abound around every corner in the tight confines of the tiny turtle-shell. Think On the Road with Charles Kuralt meets Home Alone. An unforgettable journey for sure.
Last, but not least, a book that is very near to my heart. Turn, Turn, Turn,
compiles several of your favorite columns from these pages, and adds some new observations. It is sold on Amazon, but as a special offer to you, my loyal fans, I would love to mail you a copy. Just drop me a note in care of Ouachita Life, or send me an email at jennycarlisle@sbcglobal.net. The cost of each copy is $8.00, with no charge for shipping. I hope it provides comfort and a few smiles to brighten your days.
Stay healthy, and enjoy the rest of your summer!
Great article, Jenny. Thanks for the mention. Someday we’ll see your novels in print.
Thanks for being such an important part of my journey. You are a friendly inspiration, and an inspiring friend!