Welcome to Hidden Treasure Novels recommended readings. We are committed to imprinting and recognizing works that deal with change - how it impacts lives, and organizations. Whether under this imprint or others, regardless of format or genre, these works consider that change. Some are fanciful, others instructive.
The Hidden Treasure of Dutch Buffalo Creek ,the debut award winning novel that launched this enterprise, speaks to the impact of change in the lives of an entire family. A sequel novella, Neverborn exposes how some of those family members deal with the most devastating types of change.
More about those books is available at the Beginnings tab on this website. In this Recommend list you’ll find information about other stories written by the company founder, and more books created under the HTN imprint. Scroll down and you’ll discover additional works that we highly recommend.
The Hidden Treasure of Dutch Buffalo Creek ,the debut award winning novel that launched this enterprise, speaks to the impact of change in the lives of an entire family. A sequel novella, Neverborn exposes how some of those family members deal with the most devastating types of change.
More about those books is available at the Beginnings tab on this website. In this Recommend list you’ll find information about other stories written by the company founder, and more books created under the HTN imprint. Scroll down and you’ll discover additional works that we highly recommend.
|
The Hidden Treasure of Dutch Buffalo Creek
|
Neverborn
by Jackson Badgenoone
by Jackson Badgenoone
|
A synopsis of books published under the pseudonym of Jackson Badgenoone is available at the Beginnings tab on this Hidden Treasure Novels website.
|
|
The Cranny by Vincent James Vezza
|
|
|
The Cranny is a short story prequel to The Hidden Treasure of Dutch Buffalo Creek.
Imagine seeing the world through the eyes of another species. Then imagine hearing their voices.An aging man in this story has no problem with such imaginations. He learns to embrace the change. This story is written by Vincent James Vezza, founder of the HTN imprint, and a Regional Representative for the North Carolina Writers' Network Metro North Region, Vincent also manages the "Trail Tales" column referenced in the BLOG section of this HTN website. |
The Monarch and the Moth by Vincent James Vezza
|
|
|
The Monarch and the Moth is a short story about change and how it affects lives, young and old.
Imagine seeing the world through the eyes of another species. Then imagine hearing their voices. Young children in this story have no problem with such imaginations. They learn to embrace the change that comes with the gift of life. This story is written by Vincent James Vezza, founder of the HTN imprint, and a Regional Representative for the North Carolina Writers' Network Metro North Region, Vincent also manages the "Trail Tales" column referenced in the BLOG section of this HTN website. |
Additional works from contributing Hidden Treasure Novels authors and artists.
Hidden Treasure Novels began with the publication of an award-winning debut novel, followed by a sequel novella and a short story prequel.The author of those stories and founder of this enterprise also manages a newspaper column that encourages aspiring authors to publish the hidden treasure in their stories. Some of those stories are featured in the Trail Tales section of the Hidden Treasures blog at this website. Purchase links are provided on this page.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases books purchased through Amazon.Those books are identified on this page by the Amazon logo, a photo of the book with title and price, and a Shop now button.
Plain & Fancy, by Sharon K. Upton
|
This coloring book features designs by our artist, Catherine Anne, who was in her early 90’s when she began her interest in drawing. She simply drew an X one day, and it soon became a quaint design. She drew many more designs in that fashion, beginning most of them with an X. A few of her drawings are in their originality. The remaining images were created by merging two of her originals with photo editing software. Catherine doesn’t like to take credit for the blended works, but they wouldn’t exist without her originals.
Sharon is a published contributor to the Trail Tales column that appears in a regional publication and is featured each month in the blog on this website.To learn more about Sharon, click on our blog and then on Sharon's name. Her next hidden treasure is a novel that speaks to the mom she honors in Plain & Fancy. |
A Quest for Love,
An Otherworldly Infatuation, by Thomas J. Doonan
|
This short story reveals the character of a man who comes up short of aspirations to find true love in his lifetime.His quest for companionship and love has led him through twenty years of frustration. Entities fleetingly seen, and experienced, tug on his heart to complete the wholeness of his life. The work bounces from serious to whimsical, using quirky slants on societal expectations.The Foreword to the book sets expectations. "Bartholomew (Bart) Hunter, the principal character in this story, reminds me of a young man whom I met many years ago. He too was stunted by superficial emotions and an inability to connect with people. Female readers, don't be too quick to judge Bartholomew. Your best friend might have dated someone like Bart. Male readers, don't be Bart. All readers, consider that time is limited, our walk on this planet brief. Don't be afraid to search for the hidden treasure buried deep within every soul."
Thomas J. Doonan is a published contributor to the Trail Tales column that appears in a regional publication and is featured each month in the blog on this website. He is also an active member of the North Carolina Writers' Network and former NCWN Regional Representative. He is an author of two short stories, and a novella planned for 2019. |
Waiting Room Frenzy, by Thomas J. Doonan
|
Perhaps an ideal setting to contemplate change, consider the Waiting Room of a health care facility. Waiting Room Frenzy is a whimsical tale of four hours of implausible human behavior in a Surgical Waiting Room as told by two long time participants, siblings Rebecca and Tobias. Their observations chronicle dozens of vignettes of farcical activity as families amuse themselves passing time, while their loved ones are under the knife.
Thomas J. Doonan is a published contributor to the Trail Tales column that appears in a regional publication and is featured each month in the blog on this website. He is also an active member of the North Carolina Writers' Network and former NCWN Regional Representative. He is an author of two short stories, and a novella planned for 2021. |
The Coroner Takes a Ride, by Chuck Thurston
|
This is the first title in the genre of mystery-thriller to find a home under the Hidden Treasure Novels imprint. The characters could emerge from the stories of any local newspaper. Woodrow “Woody” Stanton, is the 63 year old retired Chief of Police of West Hepzibah, a small valley town in the North Carolina mountains. He plays some golf, counsels his successor, and babysits his eleven-year-old autistic great-nephew. As the plot unfolds, each character confronts the change that happens in their part of the world.
Chuck Thurston is a published contributor to the Trail Tales column that appears in a regional publication and is featured each month in the blog on this website. He is also an active member of the North Carolina Writers' Network and former NCWN Regional Representative. He is an author of two short stories, and is planning two additional novels in the "Coroner" series. |
Other books aligned to our mission - recognizing that "change happens!"
Business and personal development..
Yes, You Can Do This, by Claudia Reuter
|
|
|
Claudia Reuter left a promising corporate career to raise her two young children but realized, when re-entering the workforce, that the gap in her resume looked like a gap in ambition - not a purposeful plan. Instead of leaning into a corporate career and fighting the structures and system designed by and for men decades ago, or leaning out and giving up income, Claudia took a different path. That decision ultimately led to success in the corporate world and at home. In "Yes, You Can Do This!" Claudia shares her own reasons for starting a business and makes it a call to action for women to consider entrepreneurship so that they can create businesses with the rules they want and change the playing field for others, making a significant impact in the world. More than a "how-to book" on building a business, "Yes, Your Can Do This!" provides clear examples and practical resources to help others create the life they want through entrepreneurship. Change Happens! How you deal with it determines your walk.
|
Remarkable Presentations, by John Lowe
|
|
|
After 25 years of successful executive selling, John decided to share his expertise in developing and delivering compelling business presentations with the world. He currently consults with businesses regarding their sales and marketing messaging, and coaching their teams and executives on developing and delivering differentiated value proposition messaging.
At Apple Computer, Inc. John and the founder of HTN helped to bring about change in the way information is delivered in the educational arena. More information about this author is available in the blog post on this site. |
A Passion for Presenting, by John Lowe
|
|
|
We all make presentations every day. Some are professional in nature, propelling our careers forward. Some are community-focused, helping to support cause and projects which we care about. Others are quite informal, more personal in nature, perhaps even one-on-one. What they all have in common is they represent an opportunity for us to represent ourselves and our ideas to someone. This book shares the insights of some very interesting people as they discuss how the power of personal communications impacts their circle of influence. Their stories are compelling and their lessons are invaluable. Those interviewed include; J. Mark McVey on performing, Bob Timberlake on art,Rufus Edmisten on politics, Ty Boyd on motivation, Jean-Luc Doumont on science, and Paddy Hirsch on economics.
At Apple Computer, Inc. John and the founder of HTN helped to bring about change in the way information is delivered in the educational arena. More information about this author is available in the blog post on this site. |
Ramblings of a Common Man: Everyday Poetry, by John Lowe
|
|
|
Ramblings is a collection of poetry reflecting on life. It was written by a traveler on the path of human existence, observing what came his way. It is offered with gratitude, respect, and honor, with the hope of providing a flicker in the imagination, a spark for the senses and a slight embrace to the heart.
At Apple Computer, Inc. John and the founder of HTN helped to bring about change in the way information is delivered in the educational arena. More information about this author is available in the blog post on this site. |
MOVING FORWARD IN MID-CAREER: A Guide to Rebuilding Your Career after Being Fired or Laid Off, by John Henry Weiss
|
|
|
Losing a job is one of the most devastating events one can experience. For trauma, it ranks up there with divorce, loss of a loved one, or permanent personal injury, and it happens more often that one would think. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 50,000 workers are fired or laid off each day. That is over 18,000,000 workers each year.
Moving Forward in Mid-Career is a guide for workers who have been fired or laid off and are in process of rebuilding not only their careers, but also their personal identities independent of a job title. At Apple Computer, Inc. John and the founder of HTN helped to bring about change in the way information is delivered in the educational arena. More information about this author is available in the blog post on this site. |
0PERATION JOB SEARCH: A Guide for Military Veterans Transitioning to Civilian Careers, by John Henry Weiss
|
|
|
Operation Job Search is the ultimate guide for US military veterans seeking employment after discharge. It provides information about the civilian workforce, rubrics for navigating one’s career, and a list of essential resources to consult during the job search. Also included are sections dedicated specifically to suggestions and resources available to female veterans.
Weiss explains that hiring managers and human resources directors hire veterans who make the effort to build a professional relationship. He discusses the importance of leaving the house and meeting employers. At Apple Computer, Inc. John and the founder of HTN helped to bring about change in the way information is delivered in the educational arena. More information about this author is available in the blog post on this site. |
WELCOME TO THE REAL WORLD: A Complete Guide to Job Hunting for the Recent College Grad, by John Henry Weiss
|
|
|
Are you still looking for that perfect job six months after graduating from college? Are you also still firing off hundreds of resumes from your parents’ house with little or no results? Then you need the real-world advice of executive recruiter John Henry Weiss. In Welcome to the Real World, Weiss provides much-needed guidance to recent college graduates seeking their first jobs in the real world of work.
Weiss explains that companies do not hire resumes. They hire candidates who make the effort to build personal relationships. At Apple Computer, Inc. John and the founder of HTN helped to bring about change in the way information is delivered in the educational arena. More information about this author is available in the blog post on this site. |
The BIG BOOK of JOB-HUNTING HACKS: Editors of the American Library Association, Brenda Bernstein, and John Henry Weiss
|
|
|
In "The Big Book of Job-Hunting Hacks" , experienced job-hunting professionals offer detailed advice on every step of the job-hunting process. From how to navigate the interview process, to how to create the perfect resume, this book will help you stand out from your competitors.With a new introduction by John Henry Weiss, president of a recruitment firm, that contextualizes the current state as a result of COVID-19, this book offers hundreds of practical tips for those laid-off, fired, or new to enter the workplace. Whether you're entry-level or nearing the peak of your career, this book is for you. At Apple Computer, Inc. John and the founder of HTN helped to bring about change in the way information is delivered in the educational arena. More information about this author is available in the blog post on this site. Change Happens! How you deal with it determines your journey.
|
Business Essentials for Writers by James P. Nettles
|
What started as a few side conversations, articles and blog posts grew into a website, and eventually into Author Essentials. With the support of the writer community, James P. Nettles published a great reference guide for anyone looking to publish their work. Business Essentials for Writers is a must read for writers.
James has presented at several of the monthly gatherings of the North Carolina Writers' Network Metro North Region. Some of his presentations are available at the Hidden Treasure Novels YouTube channel, visit "Lessons Learned." |
Observations, outreach, reconciling the present, imagining the future, books published by NCWN Metro North Region writers, authors in the ACFW NC Region, & beyond.
Friends of Orion, a novel by Regina Calton Burchett
|
Friends of Orion lets the reader experience what it might be like to read minds, and to share that experience with others.Ben, a new resident in Rockport, meets others for the first time who also have telepathy and is guided in developing his skills - and manners - by a surprising friendship with a hawk, Orion. Rosanna is a brave and spunky eleven year old. The need to be secretive about their skills is the main theme for much of the beginning, until the people who present a threat enter their sphere. The threat is to the people we’ve come to care about, as well as to the country and even the world. The second half of the book is a suspenseful page-turner. Would love to read a sequel to Friend of Orion! Or two. Or three.
Regina Burchett has a gift for seeing the world around her - whether it be city, country or sky - and magnificently recreating the beauty she sees." Informed Collector September 18, 2014, Regina is an active member of the North Carolina Writers' Network Metro North Region. Learn more about Regina at https://www.reginaburchett.com/ |
Senior Scribbles, Second Dose by Chuck Thurston
|
Senior Scribbles will delight readers of any age. At HTN, we believe that Change Happens!
Chuck Thurston places a spotlight on those changes in a collection of humorous observations.""If Senior Scribbles Unearthed were a car it would be a 1950's Nash Metropolitan --America's first sub-compact-- with a 2013 Corvette V-8 hidden inside. Thurston is one of those rare writers who, like Mark Twain, leads you off in one direction only to deliver you somewhere else, and it is always somewhere you find fascinating. Mostly you find it fascinating because, though Thurston seems to be writing about himself, he turns out to be writing about you. And doing so with such generous respect for the reader that you feel both welcome and in awe, as though you've been invited into someone else's home, and through its windows is new world.” Hesh Kestin, author, “The Lie”, "The Siege of Tel Aviv.” Chuck is a published contributor to the Trail Tales column that appears in a regional publication and is featured each month in the blog on this website.He is also an active member of the North Carolina Writers' Network and former NCWN Regional Representative. |
Senior Scribbles Unearthed by Chuck Thurston
|
The first of Chuck Thurston's Senior Scribbles; a collection of his newspaper columns -- principally from the Transylvania Times of Brevard, NC. Stories funny, poignant and quirky from childhood, career and family life. "Thurston's breezy essays are delightful. Full disclosure: I've been reading them one at a time as they were published locally in North Carolina over the past years. At that time my only problem was that each piece was over all too soon -- I wanted to keep reading these wonderful prose reflections. Now, gratefully, I have a whole book of them! Lively, insightful, witty and wise, these gentle pieces will add a smile to your day." -- Peter Orton, Director , IBM Center for Advanced Learning.
Chuck is a published contributor to the Trail Tales column that appears in a regional publication and is featured each month in the blog on this website.He is also an active member of the North Carolina Writers' Network and former NCWN Regional Representative. |
The Dutchess The Knight and The Leprechaun by Heidi Thurston
|
Talk about change! A widow in her middle years, Anna Thornberg has recovered from the loss of her long-time husband Robert, a caring and cheerful Irishman who harbored a secret dark side. Anna’s best friend, Reenie, decides that Anna needs a man in her life and, by reading an old high school diary, discovers the identity of Anna’s first love. Ultimately the two are put in contact with one another and the beginning of a pilgrimage of love rekindled begins, a love that spans two continents and many decades.
Author Heidi Thurston is a longtime member of the North Carolina Metro North Region. She is also an early contributor to the Trail Tales column. |
Confessions of an Anesthesiologist by William Cottrell
|
Change happens in every industry, and the pace is pronounced in the medical profession. Author William Cottrell reveals that,"a key part of this story is the history of how new intraoperative monitors, improved alarms and safety upgrades on anesthesia machines along with better drug and syringe labeling in the 1980's dramatically decreased the risks associated with general anesthesia. Doctor Cottrell weaves a story that also includes how change impacted his personal life. In these "confessions" he deals with a number of important issues; the changes in his medical practice, political and economic changes at the local and national level, personal and family instability, and lastly his own struggle to search for meaning and logic to these events. I think anyone who struggles in their career can relate to the need and sense of satisfaction in gaining that insight.
William is a contributor to the Trail Tales column that appears in a regional publication and is featured each month in the blog on this website. He is also an active member of the North Carolina Writers' Network. |
Greenbrier Chronicles by William Cottrell
|
Greenbrier Chronicles is the story of how the author became aware of critical environmental issues, from his early childhood through 40 years of medical practice, to his early years of retirement.His search for a Personal Legend comes to an inevitable conclusion: Climate change and environmental welfare are issues no one should ignore.As an added treat, this story centers primarily in the beautiful Greenbrier Cove of East Tennessee, his family's favorite vacation locale. William exposes several contentious issues. The result is raw insight into the most important dilemma facing out country in the 21st century, one that's being played as a chess game without the people's knowledge.
Dr. Cottrell is a contributor to the Trail Tales column that appears in a regional publication and is featured each month in the blog on this website. He is also an active member of the North Carolina Writers' Network. |
Falling Through the Ceiling, by Audrey and Dr. Larry Jones
|
Change Happens! These stories offer the real-deal reality of living with a house full of ADHD, including the ups, downs and chaos of what happened and the consequences of such. The authors, a married couple of 45 years, offer experience, practical insight and what they learned from counselors, research and their own mistakes to assist people coping with children and adults who are affected by ADHD. Sharing their personal life challenges with the effects of ADHD, this is a real, sometimes painful, story written to help families recognize and navigate to controlling chaos and unlocking the gifts of ADHD in their children and themselves.
Larry and Audrey are active members of the North Carolina Writers' Network and were featured guest speakers at the regional meetings. More information is provided "In the News" section of this website, drop down menu from "Resources." |
The Complete Single Mother by Andrea Engber
|
Change happens to everyone. It presents special challenges for the single mother. Being a single mother isn't easy--but with The Complete Single Mother, Third Edition, it just got easier. Long the most popular source of encouragement and advice for single moms, this engaging, enlightening guide explores such important issues as:
The HTN founder has worked with author Andrea Engber for a number of years. Her story is a must read for every woman who has walked this walk. |
The Second Coming: The Arrival, by Alberto Perez
|
Who can predict what change will happen in the future. Author Alberto Perez, shares his imagination with readers through a series of recently published novels. They all share a vision consistent with the HTN motto that "Change Happens!"
Some are calling the disappearance of millions the Rapture, while others refer to the event as a brutal alien invasion set on eradicating the human race.The planet finds itself facing an apocalyptic nightmare. Author Alberto Perez is a frequent contributor to the HTN Trail Tales column, and former Regional Representative for the North Carolina Writers' Network. Learn more about Alberto Perez at www.albertoperez.com or join him on Twitter @albertoperezmba and Facebook. |
The Second Coming: The Gathering, by Alberto Perez
|
Its 2047, and the event Christianity prophesied as the rapture has taken place. The Harem – referred to by us as ‘Angels’– and the Helem – known to us as ‘Demons’ are locked in mortal combat. Angels are now targeting all the good souls left behind by the rapture. But the Demons quickly scrimmage to counteract their influence. The planet finds itself facing a gruesome aftermath. Demons quickly start their web of propaganda. And within days, every media source worldwide explains the rapture as nothing more than a brutal alien invasion set on enslaving the Human race. Author Alberto Perez is a frequent contributor to the HTN Trail Tales column, and former Regional Representative for the North Carolina Writers' Network. Learn more about Alberto Perez at www.albertoperez.com or join him on Twitter @albertoperezmba and Facebook. |
The Second Coming: The Trials, by Alberto Perez
|
The world has been successfully corralled under the whip of the Anti-Christ. And the Devil continues to increase its efforts to neutralize the spread of Jesus’s message of hope, peace and love on the planet. Yvette, Winnie, Akachi and nine other unlikely souls are selected by Jesus Christ himself to minister to the lost. The fruits of their labor have yet to be measured. Nevertheless, their outreach message has not gone unnoticed.
Hordes of additional Demons are sent against the devotees to generate spiritual conflict from within. Hilily, the Dominion Archangel assigned to protect Jesus’s new selected disciples rallies twelve young Saints to serve as Guardians. Author Alberto Perez is a frequent contributor to the HTN Trail Tales column, and former Regional Representative for the North Carolina Writers' Network. Learn more about Alberto Perez at www.albertoperez.com or join him on Twitter @albertoperezmba and Facebook. |
You Can't Be THAT by Susan Wright Beard
|
For as long as she can remember, Annie Adams has had one deep desire – to be the pastor of a church. And for as long as she’s had that dream, people have told her, “You can’t be that.” But at Covenant Baptist Church, Annie finds a group of bold, forward-thinking worshipers who share her vision of inclusiveness and who are willing to work with her to discover what the church should look like today. While serving her new congregation, Annie struggles to balance the possibility of romance with her ministry. But the demands of serving a congregation leave her little time or energy for a romantic relationship, even though there are two men who seem interested. This award-winning novel introduces characters who strive, both individually and as a group, to resolve real-life issues in their daily lives and in their faith.
Author Susan Wright Beard was a contributor to the HTN Trail Tales column, and member of the North Carolina Writers' Network. Her story lives on through her books. You can learn more about Susan, a dear friend and colleague, at the BLOG section of this HTN website. |
Savvy Seniors by Susan Wright Beard
|
Senior Citizens: “There are a lot of us around, and we’re not going away. Non-seniors who love us and our society that must help care for us need to understand our experiences. Pay attention to what we say and do because we are savvy, and we have a lot to offer this world.”* Savvy Seniors is about older folks who are not ready to sit on the front porch and watch the world go by. It’s become harder now, but after more than 40 years of being productive citizens, they’re not going to stop living. A group of active seniors at Covenant Church decides to tackle the problems many seniors face head on. They pull out the silent issues and publicize them for others to see -- loneliness, isolation, boredom, depression, and suicide.
Author Susan Wright Beard was a contributor to the HTN Trail Tales column, and member of the North Carolina Writers' Network. Her story lives on through her books. You can learn more about Susan at the BLOG section of this HTN website. |
Historical Fiction..
Priscilla series
Engaging in the Game of Politics, by Dr. M.J. Simms-Maddox
|
This prequel portrays a bright, carefree, and enterprising African American young woman who is almost always getting into a spot of trouble. Priscilla is her name. Called "PJ," "Missy," and "Miss Prissy" by family and close friends, she is self-centered, spoiled, and sheltered; and she hardly ever sees herself the way that others see her. She is also strongly bound to her father-a Methodist minister and consummate politician. And although Priscilla has four other sisters and one brother, her father has raised her differently than the others, especially from the other girls.
Dr. M.J. Simms-Maddox is an active member of the North Carolina Writers' Network Metro North Region. She is also a contributor to the Senior Savvy Trail Tales Column and is featured in the Blog section of the Hidden Treasure Novels website. |
Priscilla series
Mystery in Harare, by Dr. M.J. Simms-Maddox
|
In this, the middle story in the trilogy, Priscilla has resigned her post as the legislative aide in the Ohio Senate and set up a public relations firm. She prefers projects of substance, "earthy," as she calls them, such as the national premiere of the documentary Mandela. She also meets and agrees to marry a minister, something she'd vowed she would never do. Meantime, she continues her relationship with the senator, professionally, such that he is now considered a member of her extended family. Therefore it'd been due to the death of her loving father, Nelson, that Priscilla's family had agreed that the senator might serve as Liza's escort at the wedding.
Dr. M.J. Simms-Maddox is an active member of the North Carolina Writers' Network Metro North Region. She is also a contributor to the Senior Savvy Trail Tales Column and is featured in the Blog section of the Hidden Treasure Novels website. |
Priscilla series
Three Metal Pellets, by Dr. M.J. Simms-Maddox
|
In this the third installment in the Priscilla trilogy, it is time for Priscilla to become the woman she was meant to be. It is fall, 1987, one year after Priscilla's time in Africa. She has resumed her PR business in Columbus, Ohio, where she waits and waits for something of substance to come across her desk. Then, one day, she receives a handwritten note that reads: "Interested in spearheading the marketing campaign for the next president?"
Dr. M.J. Simms-Maddox is an active member of the North Carolina Writers' Network Metro North Region. She is also a contributor to the Senior Savvy Trail Tales Column and is featured in the Blog section of the Hidden Treasure Novels website. |
Guiding Missal by Nancy Panko
|
In 1944, a U.S. Army baker volunteers as a forward observer to carry out covert operations behind German lines in World War II. In the early 1960s, a focused nineteen-year-old Airman is responsible for decoding critical top secret messages during the height of the Berlin Crisis. In 1993, an army sniper overcomes a debilitating condition only to fight for survival in the streets of war-torn Mogadishu, Somalia, when a Blackhawk helicopter is shot down. Yet, when each of these men face a crisis, this very special prayer book, My Military Missal, provides the comfort and encouragement of divine power. Based on actual events, Guiding Missal’s timeless journey of faith, patriotism and miracles will touch your heart as the missal and the men call out to God for guidance, protection, and a safe return home.
This story has special meaning to the HTN founder. He found comfort from a similar missal that encouraged his family, reminding them that while 'change happens' God is forever faithful. |
Sheltering Angels by Nancy Panko
|
The angels...regard our safety, undertake our defense, direct our ways, and exercise a constant solicitude that no evil befall us." -John Calvin.
Most hard-working families living in the shadow of the Lyon Brook Railroad Bridge are oblivious to the angels in their midst. However, Betsy Emig, a child on a nearby farm is born with an unusual gift - she can see and communicate with her guardian angel. Her young parents assume their precocious daughter has an imaginary friend until the three-year-old repeatedly tells them what she sees during incidents of undeniable angelic intervention. Butch and Mary Emig evolve as parents raising five children, one with unique abilities.This story has special meaning to the HTN founder. He lived in many of the place settings referenced by author Nancy Panko, and has himself considered the presence of angelic beings in his writing. |
Additional inspiring works.
Remind Me Today, a Daily Devotional by Wanda Hood
|
|
|
The HTN founder had the privilege of meeting with Wanda Hood at a Christian conference. Her book inspires readers to cope with change through faith based guidance. In this daily devotional, the author shares her most vulnerable and poignant every-day moments with courage and humor, each experience examined with simple but revealing Scripture, knowing that her spiritual growth, and yours, is not found in the good times, but in our darkest days. From the author:
"This book offers a daily spiritual reflection on life's victories, joys, trials, frustrations, heartaches, illnesses, grief and any other experiences you may have. You may not encounter the same ones I chronicled, but some will strike a chord and bring to your mind what you have already lived through and offer some thoughts on what may lie ahead on your path." |
An Unexpected Arrangement by Heidi McCahan
|
He needed a fresh start,but twin babies weren’t part of the plan…
Hoping to start over, Jack Tomlinson intends to leave his hometown—until twin babies are dropped on his doorstep. He needs help, and the best nanny he knows is Laramie Chambers. As they bond over the babies, Jack can’t help but feel drawn to Laramie. But proving he’s not just her friend’s irresponsible brother could be a bigger challenge than suddenly becoming a dad. The HTN founder had the privilege of meeting author Heidi McCahan during an ACFW NC chapter meeting. As the father of twins, Vincent was immediately drawn to one of Heidi's earlier works, "The Firefighter's Twins" also featured in this Recommended books by HTN. We encourage you to learn more about Heidi and her entire library of works. |
The Firefighter's Twins by Heidi McCahan
|
One single dad plus twin toddlers
A formula for her new family? Since his wife left, fireman Shay Campbell has focused on work and his twin toddlers. But the lovely Natalie McDowell is making him rethink that decision. She’s great with his boys, and they adore her. But he can’t go through losing someone again. Will a dream job offer win Natalie’s heart, or does it belong to Shay and the twins? The HTN founder had the privilege of meeting author Heidi McCahan during an ACFW NC chapter meeting. As the father of twins, Vincent was immediately drawn to,"The Firefighter's Twins" and several of her other works.. |
CzechMate by Felicia Bridges
|
Nicole Wise loves her new life in Prague almost as much as she loves telling people about Jesus. But when an election upset changes the balance of power in the formerly communist country, Nicole’s outspoken attempts at evangelism lead to her parents’ arrest on espionage charges. Teaming up with Jakub, a handsome, young Romani Czech, who has grown up homeless, Nicole and her little brother, Adam, evade corrupt authorities by hiding out in underground tunnels of the ancient city while hoping to find evidence of their parents’ innocence. Their last resort is to make the proof public in a desperate bid to save them before it’s too late. When Nicole and Adam’s parents are caught in a standoff between political forces that threaten to erupt into a bloody civil war, Nicole finds herself standing alone against an army, faith her only defense. The HTN founder had the privilege of meeting author Felicia Bridges during an ACFW NC chapter meeting. We encourage you to learn more about Felicia and her works.
|
Bolivia Knight by Felicia Bridges
|
Peter, the oldest of seven children born to missionaries in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, resents the idea of leaving the only home he’s known to go to college in the States. His parents insist he needs to leave the shelter of the familiar in order to discover a real and vibrant faith of his own. When he stumbles on evidence of a murder and reports it to the police, he launches his family and his best friend, Kasey, into a world of drug smuggling and human trafficking which threatens the lives of everyone he loves. Peter’s temper lands eighteen-year-old Kasey in the hospital where they meet Esperanza, a sixteen-year-old victim of Hector, the same villain who threatens Peter and his family. The stakes are higher than ever. Esperanza is desperate to escape not only the vicious traffickers but her own dependence on the drugs they used to control her. Peter confronts his own darkest emotions and the consequences of his choices. He must decide between defeating the cartel through powers darker than Hector himself or trusting God to provide victory through the love of Christ.
|
Kenya Quest by Felicia Bridges
|
Grace Holder has spent seventeen years held captive by fear but longing to seize life with the zeal of her best friend, Jessica. When Jessica returns from a mission trip to Kenya and challenges Grace to fully trust God, Grace must prove to her friend, and to herself, that she can overcome fear and live by faith. She sets out to experience all the excitement her friend described by following in her footsteps to serve in Mombasa but discovers there is more to fear than her imagination conjured. The harsh realities of living in poverty jeopardize her faith, and her own prejudices threaten to undermine the work. Meanwhile, her heart is torn between falling for the mysterious medical student, Erasto, and keeping her usual safe distance from a risky relationship. When her new friend is hospitalized in the midst of a medical strike, Grace and Erasto must pitch in to care for those in need. And just when she is most vulnerable, news from home leaves her broken and hopeless. Can she climb out of the pit of fear and learn to trust God even when life doesn’t make sense?
|
A Mother's Homecoming by Lisa Carter
|
The children she never thought she’d know…
She’d put the past behind her… But her secret has just returned. Charmed by the two-year-old twins in her toddler tumbling class, Maggie Arledge is shocked to learn they’re the children she gave up for adoption. And when Bridger Hollingsworth—the uncle caring for the boys—needs an emergency nanny, she fits the bill. But with sparks flying between her and Bridger, can she let herself get attached…and risk exposing secrets from her past? The HTN founder had the privilege of meeting author Lisa Carter during an ACFW NC chapter meeting. As the father of twins, Vincent was immediately drawn to several of her works. Multi-published, Daphne and Carol-award winning author Lisa Carter likes to describe her romantic suspense novels as "Sweet Tea with a Slice of Murder." |
Cassie's Secrets by Seralynn Lewis
|
The HTN founder had the privilege of meeting author Seralynn Lewis during an ACFW NC chapter meeting.
In a recent Lessons Learned interview, Seralynn shared that this stand alone novel is also the first of several books in the Women of Worthy series. Cassie's Secrets reveal the impact of profound change. Where secrets go, distrust follows. Can two lonely people let go of past hurt and learn to trust again? Single mom, Cassie Verano, and her two young daughters move to small-town Worthy, Ohio to be near her brother and his family. She longs to raise her daughters without her ex-husband’s family’s controlling interference, and live in peace. |
KEEN by Laura L. Zimmerman
|
You must walk the darkness to find the light.
Half-faerie Caoine has no control over the banshee lament she sings each night, predicting the death of others. A senior in a brand new high school, she expects the same response she's received at every other school: judgment from fellow students over her unusual eyes and unnaturally white skin and hair. However, when Caoine arrives at West Lincoln High, for the first time in her life she finds friends. Real friends. The HTN founder has the privilege of working with author Laura L. Zimmerman, a member of the NCWN Metro North Region, and the ACFW NC chapter. Laura is a frequent contributor to the Trail Tales column, and featured at the BLOG on this HTN site. Her debut novel will satisfy a Y/A reader, but older readers will relate to this story that reveals another dimension to our motto that 'Change Happens!' |
Panama Deception by Jennifer Haynie
|
Alex Thornton is a disgraced former covert operative who struggles to redefine herself and put the events that led to her downfall in the past. Jabir al-Omri is her former comrade who abandoned Alex four years before in her moment of greatest need and now grapples with his hidden love for her as well as the guilt and remorse of a torn friendship.When Melanie, Alex’s best friend from high school and guest of honor for a vacation in Costa Rica, fails to meet her and two classmates at the airport in Costa Rica, they journey to Panama to find her, only to discover she’s fallen prey to kidnappers. Now, Alex must join forces with Jabir, who finds himself trapped in a web of lies as he struggles to carry out his mission for the CIA while regaining Alex’s trust. Their race against the clock to save Melanie before it’s too late leads them into danger that not only threatens to destroy their restored friendship but also Alex and the lives of her friends.The HTN founder had the honor to meet with Jennifer Haynie at the ACFW NC Chapter.
|
Historical
In the Web of History by Olga Gladky Verro
|
The HTN founder had the honor to meet with the author of this wonderful book at a North Carolina Writers' Network conference. Her story brings new meaning to our HTN motto, Change Happens!
In the Web of History is an engaging odyssey of a family--one of millions at that time--caught in the whirlwind of catastrophic historical events and wars sweeping across 20th century Russia and the Soviet Union. It is up-close, intensely personal account of Russian and Soviet Union history as lived, documented, and remembered in detail by the family members who, from the Russian Revolution, the savage bitterness of Civil War, the Bolshevik dictatorship, and Stalin's persecutions, became pawns of history. It describes the events with verifiable historical accuracy and evokes novel-like response in the reader. In the Web of History begins with the introduction of the humble origins of the two families and their peaceful life in the Southern province of Old Russia, Ukraine. The family odyssey begins at the turbulent times in their country--World War One, Revolution and Civil War. |
Nikita Krushchev's Teacher by Olga Gladky Verro
|
The HTN founder had the honor to meet with Olga Gladky Verro, the author of this wonderful book at a North Carolina Writers' Network conference. Nikita Khrushchev's Teacher memoir is intertwined with history as lived, documented, and remembered by Antonina G. Gladky, one of the millions of women, caught in the whirlwind of catastrophic historical events of the twentieth-century Russia and the Soviet Union. The events, written and narrated, tell with the authentic voice her life story that is personal in detail and historical in scope. It documents how Russian Revolution, Civil War, Communist Party and Bolshevik totalitarian dictatorial regime, and Stalin's bloody terror shaped her fate. The story begins with the peaceful life of Antonina ancestors in Old Russia and her happy childhood growing up in a small provincial town in southeastern Ukraine. Antonina's family tragedy struck at the time when she was starting her independent life as a teacher.
|
George Washington's 1791 Southern Tour by Warren L. Bingham
|
|
|
Newly elected president George Washington set out to visit the new nation aware that he was the singular unifying figure in America.
The journey's finale was the Southern Tour, starting in March 1791. The long and arduous trek from the capital, Philadelphia, passed through seven states and the future Washington, D.C. But the focus was on Virginia, the Carolinas and Georgia. The president kept a rigorous schedule, enduring rugged roads and hazardous water crossings. His highly anticipated arrival in each destination was celebrated with countless teas, parades, dinners and dances. Author Warren Bingham reveals the history and lore of the most beloved American president and his survey of the newly formed southern United States.The HTN founder had the honor to share a book signing event with fellow author Warren L. Bingham. |
Promises Unfulfilled by Ben Callahan
|
This narrative is a chronological history of the first Lutheran institution of higher learning in the state of North Carolina. Although several individual North Carolina Lutheran congregations established their own private academies during the Church's first 110 years in the state, it was not until 1855 that the North Carolina Lutheran Synod opened its first "high school of a collegiate character".
Ben Callahan was born the year his parents moved to Mt. Pleasant, NC, the location of the school which he describes in "Promises Unfulfilled." Living within site of the "old College on the Hill" he spent his childhood among former students and teachers from the College. His book embraces the changes encountered by students and staff over the course of several decades. He also records the impact of the institution on the picturesque village nestled in the Carolina Piedmont. In recent times, the College buildings were acquired by the Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society (ECHS) that repurposed them as a regional museum.The HTN founder had the honor to interview Ben at the ECHS. |
Seasonal
Christmas Birds by Katherine R. Bates
|
|
|
Perhaps nothing represents change more than the migration and life cycle of birds. HTN founder and author references this natural beauty in his writing. He had the honor to meet fellow author and artist Kathleen R. Bates at a book signing. Kathleen describes her book by saying, "beautiful birds, common and rare, familiar and exotic, inhabit this fully illustrated national award-winning book. They represent part of a 40-year tradition of original art paired with the artist's personal messages which invite the reader, in sometimes unexpected ways, to pause and consider the meaning, not just at Christmas, but for all seasons."
|
