An additional seven awards were presented to Baker Publishing Group authors

Ada, Mich. (June 5, 2024)—On Wednesday, May 29, Eva Marie Everson presented the 2024 Selah Awards at a gala event held at the Ridgecrest Conference Center in Ridgecrest, North Carolina. This event took place on the final evening of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.

Revell author Cindy K. Sproles was selected as the first place winner in the Historical/Biblical category and also received the Selah Book of the Year award in the Fiction category for This Is Where It Ends. Each year, Selah Book of the Year designations are awarded to the highest-scoring titles in each of the three categories, including Nonfiction, Fiction, and Children.

An additional seven awards were presented to Baker Publishing Group (Bethany House and Revell) authors.

For a complete list of the 2024 Selah Award winners, please visit https://www.blueridgeconference.com/selah-award-winners-2024/.

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Contemporary Romance AND First Novel (First Place in both categories)

Julia Monroe Begins Again by Rebekah Millet
Bethany House; October 24, 2023; ISBN 9780764240959

With her two boys off to college, forty-year-old Julia Monroe intends to expand her cleaning business in New Orleans, but God seems to have other plans. Samuel Reed, the ruggedly handsome Green Beret who broke her heart more than twenty years ago, has returned to town, and he’s determined to win her back.

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General Fiction (First Place)

The Wind Blows in Sleeping Grass by Katie Powner
Bethany House; September 26, 2023; ISBN 9780764242007

Pete is content in his simple life in a remote Montana town, but elderly widow Wilma is busy meddling in Pete’s life to make up for past wrongs. When the sister Pete was separated from as a child shows up, Pete must confront a difficult past, and Wilma discovers her long-awaited chance at redemption may come at too high a price.

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Historical/Biblical (First Place)

This Is Where It Ends by Cindy K. Sproles
Revell; June 27, 2023; ISBN 9780800740795

Widow Minerva Jenkins has lived alone in her small mountain home for 40 years where she has guarded her husband’s deathbed request. When a young reporter comes calling and inquires about a rumored box of gold on her property, an unlikely friendship forms. Will she go to her grave with her husband’s secret, or will the weight of it be the death of her?

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Historical/Biblical (Third Place)

The All-American by Susie Finkbeiner
Revell; July 11, 2023; ISBN 9780800739362

In this 1950s coming-of-age story, two sisters are left reeling when their father is accused of being a member of the Communist party. Bertha finds a haven with the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. Flossie finds herself in an unexpected friendship. Both are about to discover how much good there is in the world—even in the hardest of circumstances.  

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Historical Romance (First Place)

The Maid of Ballymacool by Jennifer Deibel
Revell; February 21, 2023; ISBN 9780800741747

The only home Brianna Kelly has ever known is Ballymacool Boarding School, but when the son of local gentry arrives at the school to deal with his unruly niece, an unexpected discovery uncovers the truth about her past—and the key to her future.

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Mystery/Suspense (First Place)

The Vanishing at Castle Moreau by Jaime Jo Wright
Bethany House; April 4, 2023; ISBN 9780764238345

In 1870, orphaned Daisy Francois takes a housemaid position at a Wisconsin castle and finds that the eccentric Gothic authoress inside hides more than the harrowing tales in her novels. In the present day, Cleo Clemmons uncovers an age-old mystery, and the dust of the old castle’s curse threatens to rise again, this time to leave no one alive to tell its sordid tale.

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Audio Books (First Place)

With Every Memory by Janine Rosche
Revell; June 6, 2023; ISBN 9780800742959

After a tragic accident robs her of the last nine years of memories, Lori Mendenhall comes home to a family completely different than she remembers. As her memory returns and past secrets resurface, it will take all of them to repair what’s been broken and find a new future together.

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The Selah Awards, which began in 1999, recognizes and celebrates excellence in Christian writing in a variety of categories and is organized by the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. Baker Publishing Group offers their congratulations to all the Selah Award winners.

Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, publishes books that help bring the Christian faith to everyday life. Whether through fiction, Christian living, self-help, marriage, family, or youth books, each Revell publication reflects relevance, integrity, and excellence.

Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group, seeks to uplift readers’ families, faith, and free time with our library of industry-leading fiction and bestselling, Christ-centered nonfiction.

Contact: Karen Steele, (616)676-9185 x100, ksteele@bakerpublishinggroup.com

NASHVILLE, Tenn., June 2024—Zondervan Books, an imprint of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, proudly announces Gary Thomas’s award-winning book, When to Walk Away: Finding Freedom from Toxic People (978-031-034-6760), has surpassed 100,000 copies sold across print, digital, and audio formats (including Spanish).

Webster Younce, vice president and publisher of Zondervan Books, remarked, “Reaching this milestone is a wonderful indication of the ongoing impact of Gary’s work. We are proud to be his publishing partner as he continues to create rich, transformative, life-giving material addressing marriage, parenting, and spiritual formation, among other areas.”

When to Walk Away, published in October 2019, draws from biblical and modern stories to equip readers to handle toxic people and live true to their God-given purpose. Using experience from years serving as a pastor, Thomas offers biblical and applicable takeaways for learning the difference between difficult and toxic people, how to find refuge in God when feeling attacked, and how to discern when to walk away from a toxic situation. Additionally, he equips readers to keep a tender heart in unhealthy relationships and encourages them to grow their inner strength and invest in reliable people. He encourages readers to realize that saying no to bad patterns means saying yes to the good work God has planned for them.

When to Walk Away has been highly praised by endorsers such as Focus on the Family president Jim Daly, New York Times bestselling authors Jennie Allen and Jefferson Bethke, and John Townsend, New York Times bestselling author of the Boundaries series and founder of the Townsend Institute for Leadership and Counseling. Townsend says, “Gary Thomas has done a masterful job of showing us how and when to confront toxic people in the right way, how to guard one’s heart, and, most importantly, when to walk away. His comprehensive treatment of the many times Jesus chose to leave a person or a situation provides overwhelming encouragement and help in learning to love well, truth well, and behave well. Highly recommended.”

In addition to its sales milestone, When to Walk Away was the winner of the 2020 Resource of the Year Award from Outreach Magazine in the Counseling and Relationships category.

Gary Thomas has authored twenty books that have together sold more than two million copies. His next title is tentatively slated for release in fall 2025.

For more information or for media inquiries, please contact Amanda Woods at amanda.woods@harpercollins.com.

Gary Thomas’s writing and speaking draw people closer to Christ and closer to others. He is the author of twenty books that together have sold more than two million copies and have been translated into more than a dozen languages. These books include Sacred Marriage, Cherish, Married Sex, and the Gold Medallion-award winning Authentic Faith.  Gary holds a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Western Washington University, a master’s degree in systematic theology from Regent College (Vancouver, BC), and an honorary doctor of divinity degree from Western Seminary (Portland, OR). He serves as a teaching pastor at Cherry Hills Community Church in Highlands Ranch, Colorado.

Zondervan is a HarperCollins company and part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Zondervan is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian communications. The company’s products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200 languages. Zondervan offices are located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For additional information, please visit zondervan.com.

Contact:  Amanda Woods, Publicity Director, Zondervan Books, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Amanda.Woods@HarperCollins.com

Colorado Springs, CO. (June 10, 2024) – In August 2024, NavPress will release Experience the Gospel of Mark and Experience the Wisdom of Proverbs by Andy Klenke. The studies provide 30 and 31 days respectively of reading, learning, and living God’s Word.

Experience the Gospel of Mark helps readers experience the storyline of Jesus and the major themes of the book of Mark. Experience the Wisdom of Proverbs guides readers to wise living through reading a proverb each day and applying its wisdom to everyday life. Both resources are rooted in Scripture, beautifully designed, accessible, and experiential and can be used devotionally, with these features and practices provided for each day

• Know Before You Go—learn the essential context
• Read the Passage—average about 20 verses per day
• After the Passage—explains meaning, themes, and the bottom line
• Experience—engaging questions and interactions
• Takeaway and Pray—personal application that lasts

Experience the Gospel of Mark and Experience the Wisdom of Proverbs release August 6, 2024.

Experience the Gospel of Mark | ISBN: 978-1-64158-907-9
Experience the Wisdom of Proverbs| ISBN: 978-1-64158-915-4
Softcover: $14.99 each | August 6, 2024
NavPress.com

NavPress is a business ministry of The Navigators. With a rich catalog of bestselling books, discipleship resources, and The Message^® Bible, NavPress supports readers as they know Christ, make Him known, and help others do the same.^®  Since 2014 NavPress has been in a publishing alliance with Tyndale House Publishers, one of the largest independently owned Christian publishers in the world. NavPress resources are sold, distributed, and marketed worldwide through Tyndale House Publishers.

Contact:  Zoe Jethani, zoejethani@tyndale.com, 630.784.5408

 

GRAND RAPIDS, MI — On June 6, two Kregel fiction titles were announced as winners in the 2023 Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards.

Within These Walls of Sorrow by Amanda Barratt won Silver in War & Military. Barratt’s meticulous research and lush, award-winning writing shine in this moving look at a group of unsung heroes who fought for hope and humanity in the most harrowing of times. “As superbly written as it is haunting in its truth,” says endorser Kate Breslin.

Hero Debut by Angela Ruth Strong won Bronze in Romance. The second in Strong’s Love Off Script series follows Gemma Bennett in her over-the-top escapades to woo Lieutenant Karson Zellner for her newest screenplay. Other Christian romance authors describe Hero Debut as “a must-read,” “arrestingly delightful,” “witty,” “hilarious,” and “satisfying.”

The full list of winners was announced on the Foreword Reviews website and can be found here.

Since 1998, Foreword Reviews has provided trade book reviews of the best titles from independent presses. In print, and online, its FOLIO award-winning design and editorial content makes the magazine a favorite among librarians, booksellers, and readers—an excellent resource when it comes to purchasing books. Foreword INDIES and the fee-for-review Clarion service complement their online content and print magazine, helping to showcase independent presses and their authors for over twenty-six years.

Kregel Publications is an evangelical Christian publisher that aims to develop and distribute—with integrity and excellence—trusted, biblically based resources that lead individuals to know and serve Jesus Christ.

Contact: Publicity Department, 616-451-4775, publicity@kregel.com, www.kregel.com

JUNE 7, 2024, WHEATON, Ill.—Over the past several years, the Lord has blessed Crossway with significant growth. In the month of May, the not-for-profit ministry closed out a very strong fiscal year with an annual sales increase of almost 30%. While Crossway continues to maintain a strong backlist, the size of the organization’s annual frontlist for books has nearly doubled over the past five years. In addition, Crossway has invested in several new forms of publishing, bringing audio production in-house and launching a number of new podcasts and audio Bibles. Crossway has also focused on the development of curriculum for churches, women, and children, and recently launched a major update to the ESV Bible app for iOS and Android devices, introducing a suite of new features and content designed to help people engage with God’s Word every day. This recent expansion in the scope of Crossway’s publishing program aligns with the ministry’s stated mission and purpose: “To promote, support, and further the ‘Good News’ of the Gospel of Jesus Christ by all available means and methods.”

The recent growth also underscores the ongoing need to be good stewards of every project and author the Lord has entrusted to Crossway. As a result, Crossway’s leadership team recently made several organizational changes to allow the company to continue to scale well.

Matt Tully has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Book and Audio Publishing. Tully has served at Crossway for 11 years, most recently in his role as VP of Marketing and Communications. Crossway EVP of Book Publishing, Justin Taylor, commented, “Matt’s strategic thinking, skill in systems development, and godly leadership will position us for growth as the Lord continues to bless Crossway’s publishing ministry.”

Amy Kruis has been promoted to Vice President of Author Relations and Publicity. Kruis is responsible for ensuring that each author has a positive and enjoyable experience working with Crossway. Amy has faithfully served Crossway for over 15 years with professionalism and a consistent commitment to the highest standards of excellence. Taylor commented further, “These strategic promotions for Matt and Amy are central pillars in a broader book editorial and acquisitions organizational restructure intended to position Crossway to continue to grow and bear fruit in the future.”

Under the Lord’s blessing, the ESV Bible translation continues to gain acceptance—not only in the domestic market but also in English-speaking regions globally. Remarkably, ESV Bible sales have doubled over the last four years. Chief Publishing Officer Don Jones commented, “We rejoice over what the Lord is doing and want to faithfully steward the ESV for future generations.”

In the Bible Publishing area, Erika Allen has been promoted to Vice President of Bible Resources. Allen has faithfully served at Crossway for the past 18 years. Jones noted, “Erika is particularly gifted at connecting with Crossway Bible contributors with grace, clarity, and humility that honors the Lord and faithfully represents Crossway.” In her new role, Allen will be responsible for conceptualizing, initiating, and executing new Bible resources, with a special focus on resources for women.

Crossway is also pleased to announce that Dan Kok has been promoted to serve as Executive Vice President of Business Operations. Kok will capably oversee the Business Operations Division, having faithfully served in this area at Crossway for almost 32 years. Crossway CEO and President Josh Dennis commented, “I am very thankful for Dan. He’s a humble and godly man, bringing wisdom, stability, and business acumen to this role.”

Dennis added, “As Dan Kok steps into his new role, we want to express our deep gratitude to Anthony and Lorraine Gosling for their faithful service to Crossway over the past 11+ years. Anthony and Lorraine have been instrumental in our company’s growth. We are very thankful for their contributions and wish them well as they’ve decided to move on from Crossway and are seeking the Lord’s leading in this next chapter of their lives.”

Gosling commented, “It has been such an honor and a rich blessing to represent Crossway at the highest level in our industry and global ministry spheres. We are so grateful for the opportunity to grow with Crossway this past almost 12 years and to witness God’s abundant blessing firsthand on all that is done in his name.”

In the Communications Division, Dan Bush has been promoted to Chief Communications Officer. Bush has worked for Crossway for 14 years, with a particular focus on Sales, Marketing, and Conferences. Dennis noted, “Dan serves as a gifted ambassador for Crossway and the ESV Bible, faithfully serving our authors and ministry partners with generosity and excellence. We are thankful for the significant contribution Dan has made to the growth and ministry of Crossway during his 14 years of service.”

Aaron Camp has also been promoted to Vice President of Licensing. Camp has worked for Crossway for the past 14 years and has demonstrated a heart for the global church. Bush commented on Aaron’s promotion, “Aaron’s dedication to licensing Crossway’s content serves an extension of Crossway’s publishing efforts, reflecting his commitment to serving the global church through his work and the work of his team.”

Dennis notes, “We are very thankful for each employee at Crossway and are grateful for all that the Lord is doing. The growth and sales represent millions of gospel-centered resources being distributed around the world. Our hope and prayer is that these organizational changes will position Crossway to be even more fruitful in the years ahead. To God be the glory!”

“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20–21)

Founded in 1938, Crossway is a not-for-profit global Christian publishing ministry that publishes gospel-centered, Bible-based content to honor our Savior and serve his church. Crossway seeks to help people understand the all-encompassing implications of the gospel and the truth of God’s word—for all of life, for all eternity, and for the glory of God alone. Crossway is the global publisher of the ESV® (English Standard Version®) Bible, more than 1,000 Christian books, and an extensive list of gospel literature. For additional information, visit crossway.org.

Contact: Lauren Susanto, lsusanto@crossway.org, crossway.org

On Wednesday, May 29, 2024, Eva Marie Everson, on behalf of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference Director and Co-Director, Edie Melson and Edwina Perkins, presented The 2024 Selah Awards on the final evening of the conference. The gala event was held in the Spillman Auditorium at the Ridgecrest Conference Center in Ridgecrest, NC.  Mrs. Everson presented the awards to the following winners:

Articles in Print

Third Place: The $5,000 Walk
Author: Mary Holloman
Publisher: Clubhouse Magazine
Editor: Stephen O’Rear

Second Place: The Sisters Room
Author: Pam Walker
Publisher: Guidepost
Editor: Meg Belviso

First Place: Faith is Spelled R-I-S-K
Author: Annie Yorty
Publisher: Today’s Christian Living
Editor: Michelle Adserias

Articles Online

Third Place: Is Prayer Really That Important?
Author: Leigh Ann Thomas
Publisher: BibleStudyTools.com
Editor: G. Connor Salter

Second Place: How to Explain What the Holy Spirit Is
Author: Melinda Eye Cooper
Publisher: Crosswalk.com
Editor: Tiffany Robbins

First Place: Will You Seek the Face of Christ During Lent?
Author: Maureen Miller
Publisher: Living by Design
Editor: Sarah Koontz

Devotions in an Individual Book

Third Place: Love in a Lunch Box (From Life Lessons for Moms)
Author: Maureen Miller
Publisher: Christian Art Gifts
Editor: Carol Kent

Second Place: (TIE) Peace (From: More Than Just Words)
Author: Sara Cormany
Publisher: Redemption Pes

Second Place: (TIE) Our Shepherd (From: Life Lessons for Moms)
Author: Maureen Miller
Publisher: Christian Art Gifts
Editor: Carol Kent

First Place: Temporary Lane Closure (From: Coffee with God on the Road)
Author: Suzanne D. Nichols
Publisher: Kerysso Press
Editor: Lisa Worthey Smith

Devotions Online

Third Place: Move on From Mom Guilt
Author: Kristen Hogrefe Parnell
Publisher: KHCB Network

Second Place: Is Peace Possible in Motherhood?
Author: Kristen Hogrefe Parnell
Publisher: KHCB Network

First Place: Forgiveness
Author: Rachael M. Colby
Publisher: AlmostAnAuthor.com
Editor: Norma Poore

Essays In Print and Online

Third Place: (Tie) Forgiveness Sets Us Free
Author: Maureen Miller
Publisher: Faith Creativity Life Books
Editor: Michelle Rayburn

Third Place: (Tie) The Ben Test
Author: Rhonda Dragomir
Publisher: Chicken Soup for the Soul
Editor: Amy Newmark

Second Place: My Long Cruise
Author: Becky Alexander
Publisher: Guideposts
Editor: Meg Belviso

First Place: The Awakening
Author: Suzanne Montgomery, M.D.
Publisher: The Indiana Historical Society
Editor: Richard D. Feldman, M.D.

Devotionals

Third Place: Meet Me Where I Am, Lord
Author: Cindy K. Sproles
Publisher: Iron Stream Media
Editor: Susan Cornell
Agent: Bob Hostetler

Second Place: Forty Days with Ezekiel and Friends
Author: Jean Holland
Publisher: Courier Publishing
Editor: Butch Blume

First Place: The Christmas Devotional
Author: Michelle Medlock Adams & Andy Clapp
Publisher: End Game Press
Editor: Victoria Duerstock
Agent: Cyle Young

Short Story in Print & Online

Third Place: Unless You Turn
Author: Samuel L. Blumenthal
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Jennifer Edwards and Dori Harrel

Second Place: The Other Way
Author: Sara Davison
Publisher: The Mosaic Collection
Editor: Deb Elkink

First Place: Cradlesong
Author: Maureen Miller
Publisher: Faith Creativity Life Books
Editor: Michelle Rayburn

Anthologies

Third Place: Good Tidings; A Christmas Anthology
Publisher: The Lady Lits
J. B. Wilson & Sarah Soon, General Editors

Second Place: A Thrill in the Air
Publisher: The Mosaic Collection
Deb Elkink, General Editor

First Place: Dancing in the Rain: Stories to Shelter the Soul
Publisher: The Mosaic Collection
Deb Elkink, General Editor

Children’s Picture & Board Books

Third Place: Mr. OneEars and the Button Which Shall Not Be Pressed
Author: Jason Wallis

Second Place: Good Morning, God Loves You!
Author: Crystal Bowman & Terri McKinley
Publisher: Tyndale Kids
Editor: Debbie King
Agent: Karen Neumair

First Place: (Tie) There’s an Elephant on My Chest
Author: Caris Snider
Publisher: End Game Press
Editor: Victoria Duerstock
Agent: Del Duduit

First Place: (Tie) I Made the Earth
Author: Shannon Cook
Publisher: Wren & Bear Books
Editor: Michelle Medlock Adams
Agent: Blythe Daniel

Children’s Chapter Books

Third Place: The Tree’s Armor
Author: Erin Greneaux

Second Place: Secret of the Lost Dragons
Author: Phyllis Wheeler
Publisher: Motherboard Books
Editor: Bob Shuma, Steve Rzasa

First Place: The Tower
Author: Evonne Krell
Publisher: Answers in Genesis

Children’s Literature

Third Place: Fingerprint Devotions
Author: Sandra Kay Chambers
Publisher: Ambassador International
Editor: Bruce Stouffer

Second Place: Let’s Be Friends
Author: Calyn Daniel & Blythe Daniel
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
Editor: Heidi Picinic
Agent: Blythe Daniel

First Place: Our Daily Bread for Kids
Author: Crystal Bowman & Teri McKinley
Publisher: Our Daily Bread
Editor: Katara Patton
Agent: Karen Neumair

Middle Grade Novels

Third Place: Road Trip Rescue
Author: Becca Wierwille
Publisher: Beloved Chronicles
Editor: Ellen McGinty and Megan Gerig

Second Place: The Mystery of the Radcliffe Riddle
Author: Taryn Souders
Publisher: Sourcebooks Young Readers
Editor: Steve Geck
Agent: Sally Apokedak

First Place: Beneath the Swirling Sky
Author: Carolyn Leiloglou
Publisher: WaterBrook
Editor: Bunmi Ishola
Agent: Keely Boeving

YA Fiction & Nonfiction

Third Place: Becoming Lottie Moon
Author: Emily Hall
Publisher: Violet Skies Publishing
Editor: Denise Weimer & Kathy Ide

Second Place: Offsides
Author: Lori Z. Scott
Publisher: End Game Press
Editor: Hope Bolinger
Agent: Cyle Young

First Place: Fugitive of Talionis
Author: C. J. Milacci
Publisher: Fayette Press
Editor: Jonathan Shuerger

Bible Studies

Third Place: Habakkuk
Author: Ray Fowler
Publisher: Understanding God’s Word

Second Place: Little Strength, Big God
Author: Debbie W. Wilson
Publisher: Leafwood Publishers
Editor: Mary Hardegrel
Agent: PeggySue Wells

First Place: Embracing Joy
Author: Jean Wilund
Publisher: Our Daily Bread
Editors: Rachel Kirsch, Linnae Conkel, and Sarah DeMay

Christian Living

Third Place: Raising Respectful Children in a Disrespectful World
Author: Jill Rigby Garner
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Liz Heaney

Second Place: Hard Pressed but Not Crushed
Author: Patti Davis
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Marissa Earl

First Place: Securely Held
Author: Cheryl Pelton Lutz
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Sue Fairchild

General Nonfiction

Third Place: Not Forgotten
Author: Laura C. Brandenburg
Publisher: WestBow Press
Editor: Jeanette Windle

Second Place: Her Children Arise
Author: Casey Hilty
Publisher: Like Eden Press
Editor: Cynthia Ruchti
Agent: Cynthia Ruchti

First Place: How to Edit Your Novel
Author: Karin Beery
Publisher: Bold Vision Books
Editor: Larry Leech
Agent: Steve Hutson

Inspiration & Gift

Third Place: Finding God in Suffering
Author: Carol Tetzlaff
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Ray Dittmeier

Second Place: Bygone
Author: Hannah Linder
Publisher: Books and Such
Editor: Cynthia Ruchti
Agent: Cynthia Ruchti

First Place: The Story of Good
Author: Victoria Duerstock
Publisher: End Game Press
Editor: Hope Bolinger

Memoir

Third Place: Reckless Yes
Author: Johnna Hensley
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Kathy Ide

Second Place: Suitcases from Heaven
Author: Cindy Seaton Henson
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Tisha Martin

First Place: Breaking the Shadows
Author: Carol Chisolm
Publisher: Redemption Press
Editor: Ray Dittmeier

Contemporary Romance

Third Place: The Amish Spinster’s Dilemma
Author: Jocelyn McClay
Publisher: Love Inspired
Editor: Melissa Endlich

Second Place: Her Scandalous Amish Secret
Author: Jocelyn McClay
Publisher: Love Inspired
Editor: Melissa Endlich

First Place: Julia Monroe Begins Again
Author: Rebekah Millet
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Editor: Jessica Sharpe
Agent: Bob Hostetler

Contemporary Women

Third Place: Reclaiming Christmas
Author: Melissa Sneed Wilson
Publisher: Jan-Carol Publishing

Second Place: Lilac Cottage
Author: Carrie Fancett Pagels
Publisher: Hearts Overcoming Press
Editor: Pegg Thomas

First Place: The Year of Goodbyes and Hellos
Author: Kelly Irvin
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Editor: Becky Monds
Agent: Julie Gwinn

First Novel

Third Place: Ona Mae’s Deli and Bait Shop
Author: Renée Hodges
Publisher: SoShine Press
Editor: Cortney Donelson

Second Place: Heart in the Clouds
Author: Jennifer Mistmorgan
Publisher: Jennifer Richards
Editor: Dori Harrell
Agent: Rachel McMillan

First Place: Julia Monroe Begins Again
Author: Rebekah Millet
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Editor: Jessica Sharpe
Agent: Bob Hostetler

General Fiction

Third Place: Roxie Applesauce
Author: Tonya L. Matthews
Publisher: Haleya Publishing
Editor: Teresa Crumpton

Second Place: Ona Mae’s Deli and Bait Shop
Author: Renée Hodges
Publisher: SoShine Press
Editor: Cortney Donelson

First Place: The Wind Blows in Sleeping Grass
Author: Katie Powner
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Editor: Rochelle Gloege
Agent: Keely Boeving

Historical / Biblical

Third Place: The All American
Author: Susie Finkbeiner
Publisher: Revell
Editor: Kelsey Bowen and Kristin Kornoelje
Agent: Tim Beals

Second Place: Freedom’s Price
Author: Pegg Thomas
Publisher: Spinner of Yarns
Editor: Robin Patchen

First Place: This Is Where It Ends
Author: Cindy K. Sproles
Publisher: Revell
Editor: Jessica English
Agent: Bob Hostetler

Historical Romance

Third Place: Heart in the Clouds
Author: Jennifer Mistmorgan
Publisher: Jennifer Richards
Editor: Dori Harrell

Second Place: Garden of the Midnights
Author: Hannah Linder
Publisher: Barbour Publishing
Editor: Becky Fish
Agent: Cynthia Ruchti

First Place: The Maid of Ballymacool
Author: Jennifer Deibel
Publisher: Revell
Editor: Rachel McRae & Robin Turici
Agent: Cynthia Ruchti

Mystery / Suspense

Third Place: Every Flower of the Field
Author: Sara Davison
Publisher: The Mosaic Collection
Editor: Deb Elkink

Second Place: 26 Below
Author: Kimberley Woodhouse
Publisher: Kregel
Editor: Janyre Tromp
Agent: Tamela Hancock Murray

First Place: The Vanishing at Castle Moreau
Author: Jaime Jo Wright
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Editor: Rochelle Gloege
Agent: Janet Grant

Novellas

Third Place: In Her Sights
Author: Karen Witemeyer
Publisher: Hope & Light Publishing
Editor: Charlene Patterson

Second Place: The Christmas Carving (From: Chiseled on the Heart)
Author: Kelly Goshorn
Publisher: Scrivenings Press
Editor: Regina Rudd Merrick and Susan Page Davis
Agent: Cynthia Ruchti

First Place: Deadly Holiday Hijack
Author: Kate Angelo
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Editor: Lynette Eason and Susan May Warren
Agent: Lynette Eason

Romantic Suspense

Third Place: Expired Vows
Author: Laura Conaway and Lisa Phillips
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Editor: Susan May Warren and Lisa Phillips

Second Place: Amish Wilderness Survival
Author: Mary Alford
Publisher: Love Inspired
Editor: Katie Gowlie
Agent: Rachel Kent

First Place: Facing the Enemy
Author: DiAnn Mills
Publisher: Tyndale House
Editor: Jan Stob
Agent: Janet Grant

Speculative

Third Place: The Quickening
Author: Sarah L. Frantz
Publisher: Sursum Corda Press

Second Place: Window of Time
Author: Erin R. Howard
Publisher: Expanse Books
Editor: Ann Harrison and Linda Fulkerson

First Place: The Secret of Stardust
Author: Heather L. L. FitzGerald
Publisher: Mountain Brook Fire
Editor: Miralee Ferrell and Jenny Mertes

Westerns

Third Place: Accepted
Author: Paula Peckham
Publisher: Elk Lake Publishing
Editor: Cristel Phelps & Deb Haggerty

Second Place: Emily’s Trials
Author: Henry McLaughlin
Publisher: Elk Lake Publishing
Editor: Deb Haggerty & Peggy Ellis

First Place: The Pursuit of Miss Parish
Author: Grace Hitchcock
Publisher: Valmont House Publishers
Editor: Chantelle Mills

Audio Books

Third Place: The Year of Goodbyes and Hellos
Author: Kelly Irvin
Narrators: Jessica Holtant & Jeremy Childs
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Editor: Becky Monds
Agent: Julie Gwinn

Second Place: Defying Fear
Author: Dr. Nancy Meyer
Narrator: Christy Lou
Publisher: Brookstone Publishing Group
Editor: Anita Agers Brooks, Susan Cornell, and Larry Leech

First Place: With Every Memory
Author: Janine Rosche
Narrator: Laura Knight Keating
Publisher: Revell
Editors: Kelsey Bowen & Robin Turici
Agent: Tamela Hancock Murray

Selah Books of the Year

Each year, the Selah Books of the Year are chosen from those books with the highest scores in each of the three categories. This year, the winners are:

Children (Board Books to Young Adult)
I Made the Earth
Shannon Cook
End Game Press

Nonfiction
The Christmas Devotional
Michelle Medlock Adams & Andy Clapp
End Game Press

Fiction
This Is Where It Ends
Cindy K. Sproles
Revell

Ada, Mich. (May 21, 2024)—On Monday, May 20, ACFW board member Kathleen Y’Barbo Turner announced the Carol Award finalists in eleven categories on the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) Facebook page. The Carol Awards are ACFW’s recognition for the best Christian fiction published in the previous calendar year. Nine Baker Publishing Group authors were chosen as finalists.

For a complete list of the 2024 Carol Award finalists, please visit https://acfw.com/acfw-contests/carol-awards/carol-award-finalists/. Winners of the Carol Awards will be announced on Saturday, September 7, during the Awards Gala at ACFW’s conference in New Orleans.

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CONTEMPORARY

He Should Have Told the Bees by Amanda Cox
Revell; August 29, 2023; ISBN 9780800742737; Ebook ISBN 9781493441280; $16.99; Paper
Press Material

Beekeeper Beckett Walsh was living her dream working alongside her father on their small farm until his unexpected death thrusts a new part-owner into her world. Callie Peterson threatens not only her livelihood but her beliefs about the goodness of the man she’d always perceived to be her kind and faithful father.

The Wind Blows in Sleeping Grass by Katie Powner
Bethany House; September 26, 2023; ISBN 9780764242007; Ebook ISBN 9781493443772; $17.99; Paper
Press Material

Pete is content in his simple life in a remote Montana town, but elderly widow Wilma is busy meddling in Pete’s life to make up for past wrongs. When the sister Pete was separated from as a child shows up, Pete must confront a difficult past, and Wilma discovers her long-awaited chance at redemption may come at too high a price.

 

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HISTORICAL

The Warsaw Sisters by Amanda Barratt
Revell; November 7, 2023; ISBN 9780800741716; Ebook ISBN 9781493443420; $17.99; Paper
Press Material

In WWII Poland, two sisters fight against the darkness engulfing their homeland, one by entering a daring network of women sheltering Jewish children and the other by joining the ranks of Poland’s secret army. As Warsaw buckles under German oppression, they must rely on the courage that calls the ordinary to resist.

 

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HISTORICAL ROMANCE

The Sound of Light by Sarah Sundin
Revell; February 7, 2023; ISBN 9780800736385; Ebook ISBN 9781493439645; $17.99; Paper
Press Material

In WWII Denmark, Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt assumes the identity of a common shipyard worker, rowing messages to Sweden for the Resistance. His life depends on keeping his secret hidden—a task that proves challenging when he meets Else Jensen, an American physicist who seems to see right through him.

The Legacy of Longdale Manor by Carrie Turansky
Bethany House; September 26, 2023; ISBN 9780764241055; Ebook ISBN 9781493443710; $16.99; Paper
Press Material

Art historian Gwen Monroe is evaluating paintings at a British estate when she uncovers a connection to the father she never knew through a 100-year-old journal. In 1912, Charlotte Harper struggles with a painful family secret that she can only confess in her journal, which shatters her faith and leaves her wondering if she can ever trust in love again.

 

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MYSTERY/SUSPENSE/THRILLER

What Happens Next by Christina Suzann NelsonBethany House; January 17, 2023; ISBN 9780764240409; Ebook ISBN 9781493440689; $16.99; Paper
Press Material

Popular podcaster and ex-reporter Faith Byrne has made a name for herself telling stories of greatness after tragedy—but her real life does not mirror the stories she tells. When she’s asked to spotlight her childhood best friend’s missing person case on her podcast, she uncovers desperate secrets and must face the truth before she can move forward.

 

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ROMANCE

The Words We Lost by Nicole Deese (A Fog Harbor Romance)
Bethany House; April 11, 2023; ISBN 9780764241185; Ebook ISBN 9781493440719; $17.99; Paper
Press Material

After a meeting jeopardizes Ingrid Erikson’s career, she fears her future will remain irrevocably broken. But when the man who shattered her belief in happily-ever-afters offers her a sealed envelope from her late best friend, Ingrid is sent on a hunt for a hidden package and must confront her past before she can find the healing she’s been searching for.

 

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ROMANTIC SUSPENSE

Under Fire by Lynn H. Blackburn (Defend and Protect #3)
Revell; March 7, 2023; ISBN 9780800737979; Ebook ISBN 9781493439676; $16.99; Paper
Press Material

Special Agent Tessa Reed left her demons in the past, but when she reconnects with USSS Agent Zane Thacker during a presidential fundraiser, one of those old adversaries comes to collect. These best friends must work together to protect the President and guard their own hearts.

Critical Threat by Lynette Eason (Extreme Measures #3)
January 3, 2023; ISBN 9780800737344; Ebook ISBN 9781493439652; $17.99; Paper
Press Material

Working as a behavioral analyst with the FBI puts Grace Billingsley in contact with every sort of evil and every kind of person. But working with the son of a serial killer? That’s a first.

 

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Baker Publishing Group offers their congratulations to all the Carol Award finalists and would like to acknowledge the American Christian Fiction Writers for their ongoing support to inspirational fiction authors.

Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, publishes books that help bring the Christian faith to everyday life. Whether through fiction, Christian living, self-help, marriage, family, or youth books, each Revell publication reflects relevance, integrity, and excellence.

Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group, seeks to uplift readers’ families, faith, and free time with our library of industry-leading fiction and bestselling, Christ-centered nonfiction.

Contact: Karen Steele, (616)676-9185 x100, ksteele@bakerpublishinggroup.com

Evangelical Christian publisher Inter-Varsity Press (IVP UK), based in the UK, has promoted Thomas Creedy to Publishing Director, effective from 1st May 2024. Creedy first joined the IVP team (part of SPCK Group) in 2018 in a combined Marketing and Editorial role, before being appointed as Editorial Director of IVP, and its academic imprint, Apollos, in Spring 2023.

Inter-Varsity Press in the UK (not to be confused with InterVarsity Press in the US) publishes world-leading evangelical authors, including Amy Orr-Ewing, John Stott and Tim Chester, and is committed to producing books that are faithful to the Bible, share the gospel with the world, and equip the church for mission and discipleship. IVP (UK), which also publishes books for an academic audience under its Apollos imprint, fosters a global impact and reach through worldwide distribution licensing and partnerships.

Thomas Creedy will continue to report to Wendy Grisham, Deputy CEO of SPCK, work closely with Joshua Wells, Senior Commissioning Editor, and remain accountable to the IVP (UK) Publishing Board.

Grisham says: “Tom’s excellent leadership in his previous role as Editorial Director proves that he is the right person to head up IVP (UK) as Publishing Director. Tom’s impressive blend of enthusiasm, knowledge, and experience – unusual in someone relatively young – coupled with his deep respect for the history of IVP, incisive awareness of its theological directives, and sensitivity to its wider place in the SPCK Group will all be fantastic assets as he takes on this new leadership position”.

Creedy says: “It’s a genuine honour to have been appointed Publishing Director of IVP (UK), whose mission to publish biblically faithful, evangelical books to serve the global church is one very close to my heart. Having grown up with IVP books on my parents’ shelves and appreciating the balance of deep wisdom and cultural relevance, I’m excited to be part of shaping the legacy as we head towards our centenary in 1928.  IVP’s evangelical distinctives are to remain relevant, globally aware, biblically rooted, and culturally engaged. As we publish deliberately into key areas like culture, mental health and wellbeing, we are also excited to launch some major new series and reference projects in the coming years. I would value your prayers as I seek to serve God’s mission in this role”.

Sue Halliday, Chair of the IVP (UK) Publishing Board, said “it has been a pleasure to get to know Tom over a number of roles and see him develop into a significant leadership role for IVP. He is passionate and thoughtful and cares about the wider mission of IVP, which he is now equipped to hold humbly and boldly. His appointment marks a renewed determination to share UK insight into the larger American market for sound evangelical books; we have new series forthcoming, drawing together global authors and editors, and it enables a strong presence within the SPCK Group for books that focus on being both culturally insightful and faithful to the Bible. As a member of the IVP Board his new post will enable him to play a significant gatekeeping role for the IVP charity within the wider SPCK Group”

Sam Richardson, CEO of SPCK says: “With our increasing momentum in global, digital and core list sales, I am delighted to see Tom step up as IVP Publishing Director. In the years I’ve worked with him, he has made a strong, positive impact internally and externally, and I look forward to seeing where he takes IVP in the future.”

Contact: For further information please contact Emily Beater; ebeater@spck.org.uk, 07494430503 

Carol Stream, IL (May 28, 2024)—The One Year Devotions for Preschoolers by Crystal Bowman has sold over 325,000 copies in the last 20 years. In celebration of this accomplishment, Tyndale House Publishers is releasing a 20th anniversary edition for a new generation of children ages 3–6 to enjoy.

While retaining the adorable illustrations, Bible verses, and rhyming prayers that made this book a success, the easy-to-understand devotions have been updated for contemporary preschoolers. Each page focuses on helping little ones know and love Jesus every day of the year.

Linda Howard, Associate Publisher of children’s and youth at Tyndale House Publishers, stated, “We are grateful for the biblical truth this book has provided to families around the world and excited to continue publishing it for years to come.”

Perfect for reading aloud to young children or as a resource for preschool Sunday school classrooms, the 20th anniversary edition of The One Year Devotions for Preschoolers will release on September 1, 2024.

Crystal Bowman is a former preschool teacher and an award-winning, bestselling author. She has written more than 100 books for children, women, and families. She is also a lyricist, national speaker, and writing coach for children’s writers. More than three million copies of her books have sold internationally, with many of them becoming CBA bestsellers. Her books have been translated into more than a dozen languages.

She has written numerous magazine articles, teacher resources, and Bible study materials. She is a regular contributor to Clubhouse Jr. magazine and has also contributed to several nonfiction women’s compilation books. She has written two dozen books for the I Can Read! brand (Zonderkidz) and is one of the authors of the bestselling Little Blessings series (Tyndale Kids). She has also written for many popular series such as the Berenstain Bears, BOZ the Bear, and the Princess Parables. She and her daughter, Teri McKinley, launched the brand Our Daily Bread for Kids (Discovery House Publishers) and continue to develop more products for young children. Crystal and her husband enjoy spending time with their adult children and eight huggable grandkids.

The One Year Devotions for Preschoolers by Crystal Bowman
ISBN: 978-0-8423-8940-2
Hardcover: $15.99
September 2024
Tyndale.com

Since its founding in 1962, Tyndale House Publishers has been a voice to trust for generations of readers. Today, Tyndale is one of the largest independent Christian publishers in the world. Tyndale’s mission is to make the Bible accessible to as many people as possible in language that they can relate and respond to. Tyndale publishes the Holy Bible, New Living Translation (NLT) and offers nonfiction books that equip readers with Christ-centered insight, counsel, and life-improving stories. In addition, Tyndale publishes fiction from fresh new voices and celebrated authors alike, capturing the imagination of millions of readers. With a deep understanding of the importance of nurturing future generations, Tyndale also publishes children’s products that make God’s Word and wisdom come alive. Tyndale’s independent status allows it to follow its founding model, giving a substantial portion of annual revenue—millions of dollars per year—through corporate donations and the work of Tyndale House Foundation. With every book purchased, Tyndale readers help meet the physical and spiritual needs of people around the world.

Contact: Natalie Wierenga, nataliewierenga@tyndale.com, 630.784.5211

April 2024 — Langham Publishing, the Christian publishing house of Langham Partnership International, announced the launch of their new imprint Langham Academic. With a growing catalogue of over 450 titles authored by Christian scholars, preachers, and leaders from around the globe, the new imprint aims to build upon their global platform for insightful and scholarly work that is faithful to Scripture.  

Since its inception, Langham publishing has focused on providing a curated and peer reviewed range of published PhD theses by Majority World scholars under the banner and imprint Langham Monographs. Following the strategic reorganisation as a result of growth the imprint has now been replaced by Langham Academic. This new imprint will continue to foster the publication of excellent doctoral work in series covering areas such as Old and New Testament, Theology, Christian History and Missiology, but also moves beyond theses to support academic monographs and multi-contributor works.

“In my 35 years involvement with Langham Partnership’s literature ministries, the most fruitful and exciting development has been the shift from merely getting books to the Majority World, to publishing books from and for the Majority World, enabling the global church as a whole to benefit from the theological richness of multiple voices and contexts…Langham Academic amplifies those voices for the blessing of all.” says Rev. Dr. Chris Wright, Global Ambassador for Langham Partnership.

Rev. Dr. Hani Hanna, International Director of Langham Literature, adds: 

“Academic books are vital for effective theological education by serving as a primary, readily available knowledge source. This significance is exponentially amplified through much of the Majority World due to resource constraints. Initiatives like Langham Academic play a crucial role globally by prioritizing contextual relevance in their publications. By engaging with academic theology that speaks to their specific questions and leveraging local insights, seminaries around the world are empowered to enrich their theological discourse. Furthermore, Langham Academic provides a platform for cross-cultural engagement, fostering theological dialogues that transcend geographical boundaries and unite diverse perspectives from around the world.”

New and  upcoming titles in this imprint include Brotherhood in Christ by Oleksandr Geychenko, To Die in Africa’s Dust by Las G. Newman, The Power and Purpose of Blood in God’s Design by Cynthia Hsing-Wei Chang and Integrated Mission by Sarah Nicholl.

Langham Academic joins three other established imprints within Langham Publishing that together serve scholars, students, preachers and church leaders.

To view books found within Langham Academic and to explore the rest of the Langham Publishing catalogue visit langhampublishing.org.

About Langham Publishing
Langham Publishing is a ministry of Langham Partnership whose vision is to strengthen the global church. Through Langham Publishing, we seek to publish books and provide a platform for Christian scholars, leaders, and preachers that represent the global diversity of the church – furthering our understanding of scripture, our mission as God’s people, and our love in Christ.

• Get more information about Langham Publishing.
• Get more information about Langham Partnership. 

For press related questions and information, please contact sophia.soloviy@langham.org.