Tracy Groot. Madman. Moody. 2006.

This is a historical novel about the madman that Jesus healed. You remember: he lived in the tombs, wore no clothing, and generally acted crazy. Jesus healed him by commanding the demons to leave him.

Although we have little way of knowing the truth, the author has created a believable story to explain why this particular man had gone mad. A school had totally disappeared and the story’s main character sets out to find out what happened.

Frankly, I found the book hard to follow. This is partly because I have no interest in philosophy or understanding the Greek and Roman culture at the time of Christ. Perhaps you will find it interesting. It is written from the viewpoint of contemporaries of Jesus Christ and their reaction to what they see Him doing.

Mata Elliott. Forgivin’ ain’t Forgettin’. Walk Worthy Press. 2006.

I am very impressed by this author. She has managed to produce a book about two people falling in love without needing to add sex scenes. She even has them managing to wait until marriage. Both main characters have hurts in their past. Cassidy Beckett was deeply hurt in an earlier relationship. Trevor Monroe is a single father with all the struggles that entails. The love story that develops helps to heal their pasts and leads them towards a Christ-centered marriage.

Tracie Peterson. Under the Northern Lights.. Bethany House. 2006.

This is an excellent mystery and romance all wrapped up in one. The lead character is seeking a criminal that has gone to Alaska. Along the way, she begins falling in love with the criminal’s brother. There are many twists and turns to this awesome story. You’ll learn a bit about life in Alaska before it was one of our 50 states.

Each of the characters struggles through significant odds and has to make decisions that are difficult at best. They also struggle with their faith. To tell you more would be to give away the ending.

Copyrighted by Diana Pederson, 2005-2009