In the cause of freedom, some will give their all.

When Matt Renicker joins the Army, he's determined to give his best for his country and his Lord, even if it means risking everything he loves most. But when tragedy strikes on a routine patrol, more than one heart is left shattered and lamenting.

In the wake of a terrible loss, will those left behind find the strength to go on? Or will the faith, family, and freedom Matt fought to preserve be broken beyond repair?

What's left when the world falls apart?

The only concern on Alli's mind is planning her upcoming trip with her sister—until a bolt from a clear sky turns the world upside down. But as shock and grief close in, Alli comes face to face with others just as devastated by the events as she is, and with even more reason to fear. Can she find a way to share hope with those who need it most?

What can you hide through a window?

Annalyse never expected to make a friend through a window, but her talks with the guy who lives next to the bus stop have become a favorite part of her day. But when a sudden schedule change reveals a secret he hadn't meant to share, is there anything she can do to make things right? Or is their window friendship broken beyond repair?

Some scars can’t be seen. And some can’t be hidden.

Layla Trent’s life is pretty much perfect, except for the little matter of a dog of her own–and maybe a brother. So why does a random nightmare of a princess dress, a hospital, and a stranger who’s definitely not her daddy feel more like an aching wound? And can a broken, glassy-eyed puppy somehow help her release the pain she didn’t even know she was carrying? 

Corporal Andrew Reyes has proven he has what it takes to be the best–a US Army Ranger. But when a double tragedy rocks his world, his resolve is shaken to the core. What’s left for a man to live for when he’s lost everything he ever wanted to be? And is the sudden appearance of a teenage girl with a three-legged therapy dog a cruel joke or a divine appointment?

Some scars can’t be hidden. But some don’t need to be.

No one should be forgotten at Christmas... 

The approaching holiday season brings no joy for Elenora Gregory. Isolated and forgotten, she ekes out a meager existence for herself and her mother, but with no money for even ordinary comforts, a Christmas celebration is far beyond her reach. How can others have so much when her life is so empty?

Amid the whirl of holiday preparations, Edwin Langton can't forget the face of the girl in the red cloak. Enlisting the help of his siblings, he quickly discovers the truth of her need. Can they find a way to make Christmas brighter for the lonely little family?

As the Langtons prepare their surprises, Elenora resigns herself to another cold, lonely holiday. But will their presents be the greatest gift she receives on Christmas Day?

Symphony's umbrella is her trademark - and her shield. Hiding away from a world of trouble and pain, she generally manages to avoid everyone. Until she meets Jack.

Jack's latest job search seems to have stalled, leaving him plenty of time to roam the park and wonder about the young girl with the red umbrella. It's obvious she wants to be alone, but it's just as obvious that she needs a friend.

Will Symphony's secret give new purpose to Jack's apparently aimless life? Can he bring her out of her red cocoon and into the beauty and truth that awaits her? Two lives will be forever changed by the secrets of a red umbrella.

How do you measure the worth of a life?

After EMT Roman Carter is called to a failed abortion, he's forced to battle both his own scars and his inability to stop the evil system that holds so many in its grasp. But could the tiny baby cupped in his hands prove a powerful ally in the fight?

When Amber Gray gets her first glimpse of the baby, she can't believe her eyes. It wasn't supposed to be like this. He wasn't supposed to be whole, or a fighter, or in such obvious pain. With help from Roman and his wife, Amber works to turn her life around and atone for her terrible error. But how could God possibly use her after such an unspeakable act?

As one little life struggles for survival, countless others hang in the balance. Just how far can a tiny miracle reach?

Could God bring peace from such a winding path?

Austin Sparks is doing his best to hold his family together in the wake of his mom's death, but the world continues to spin out of his control. When his dad announces that the family is moving to their grandparents' ranch in South Dakota, it's anyone's guess whether the change will bring healing or just more heartache.

Back on the ranch, Austin finds hope in the familiar surroundings and help in his loving clan of relatives. But can his dad somehow overcome his grief? Will his siblings ever feel at home? And can Austin trust God to guide them all even when the path seems darkest?

Three boys. One choice. No turning back.

Peyton is a rising star in the church who is well on the way to reaching his biggest dreams. Levi is a pastor's son struggling to live up to his faith under pressure from all sides. DaVonte is a kid from the wrong side of town who would be content if he and his friends were just left alone.

When an act of violence presents a sudden decision, each boy's answer will shake the community to its core and shape its future forever. Love and truth face off against fear and pride in this modern extension of one of Jesus' best-known parables.

Benny's coming hadn't changed anything—or had it?

With a new foster kid joining Alex Carson's family, everyone is prepared for changes. So when Benny slips into the tight-knit group with barely a ripple, the family is at once surprised and delighted.

But beneath the surface, deeper waters are stirred as Alex finds herself at odds with Jess over his jokes on the unsuspecting and gullible Benny. Will Jess's teasing and her own insecurities separate Alex from her brother? Or can a surprising source teach them a needed lesson in love?

Could God bring peace from such a winding path?

Austin Sparks is doing his best to hold his family together in the wake of his mom's death, but the world continues to spin out of his control. When his dad announces that the family is moving to their grandparents' ranch in South Dakota, it's anyone's guess whether the change will bring healing or just more heartache.

Back on the ranch, Austin finds hope in the familiar surroundings and help in his loving clan of relatives. But can his dad somehow overcome his grief? Will his siblings ever feel at home? And can Austin trust God to guide them all even when the path seems darkest?

Who would care for three friendless orphans?

Sissy is sure it can’t be as easy to find a family as Aunt Jane made it sound when she dropped them by the side of the road. But she can't bear to break Clint’s childish faith or frighten little Nattie. Does God truly have a place for them?

The last thing Clint Younger expected to pick up on a trip to town was a family of orphans, but he can’t bear to turn them away, especially the eager little boy who shares his name and calls him Daddy. Can he solve the mystery of where they came from? And what about the other children he’s been searching for so long?

A suspicious bill, a coded plea, and the Graham Quartet are ready for action!

Out along the lonely stretches of Old Elm Road, the Graham Quartet feels a mystery brewing. When a string of strange happenings continues to point in the same direction, Elsa, Matt, Selena, and Tim are determined to get to the bottom of things. But are all of these oddities really connected? Or is the Quartet so eager for another mystery that they're making up trouble out of nothing? When their old friend Guy Fox steps in to investigate, things take a startling turn. Will the four siblings have the right clues to piece everything together before the crooks get away?

Will hate and fear drown the song of Christmas love?

Amelia is eagerly anticipating her first Christmas in the west, but she soon finds that her brother-in-law's worry and her sister's exhaustion reach far deeper than the cares of a ranch and a family. A rash of fires and cattle thefts is plaguing the area, and the three young orphans they've sheltered are under suspicion from their prejudiced neighbors.

As hostilities mount, Amelia seizes every opportunity to help and encourage, but how much can one girl do? Will Reverend Brown win the community over to the true spirit of love? And will help arrive before everything they hold dear is destroyed?

“Could you not teach them what you do know?”

Separated from her parents and sent to live with unknown relatives for the summer, Belle Standish clings hard to the promises found in her dear Bible and her beloved hymns. As she grows to love her newly discovered family, she finds much work to be done for her Lord in this neglected field.

But when danger threatens those she loves, Belle's faith and courage are tested in ways she never imagined. Will God's promises hold true even in the midst of the storm? And what can she possibly accomplish with just her one little light?

Can Liberty capture the true spark of the Fourth?

With their roots sunk deep in the Air Force and a patriotic lake community, the Goldman family practically bleeds red, white, and blue. So when their cousin Alec confesses a shocking degree of ignorance about the Fourth of July, the girls decide to give him a crash course on the true meaning of Independence Day.

But Liberty is facing her own struggle with the coming holiday and the fact that her dad's deployment means he'll miss this year's celebration—and her birthday. Will the spirit of patriotism and sacrifice that inspired the founding fathers come to her rescue? And can she show Alec that there's more to the Fourth than fireworks and tea?

Could all these troubles ever lead to something good?

Vonnie Smith is trying hard to keep her spirits up, but with her family far away, her road home blocked for the forseeable future, and her Nan's small business on the brink of failure, it's easier said than done. Even reconnecting with her childhood "triplets" takes a sour turn when one of the boys breaks his leg in a freak accident—right in the middle of the shop!

With Vic and Val on her side, Vonnie is determined to prove that the little ice cream parlor can still turn a profit, but as blow after blow threatens her budding hopes, she can't help wondering where God is in all of the mess. Can she still find purpose when life seems to be crashing in around her? And can she manage to trust God and others when the answers are delayed?

In the cause of freedom, some will give their all.

When Matt Renicker joins the Army, he's determined to give his best for his country and his Lord, even if it means risking everything he loves most. But when tragedy strikes on a routine patrol, more than one heart is left shattered and lamenting.

In the wake of a terrible loss, will those left behind find the strength to go on? Or will the faith, family, and freedom Matt fought to preserve be broken beyond repair?

What secrets lie hidden among the stars?

Ten-year-old Riley Dixon is eagerly anticipating his first spaceflight, even if his dad isn't keen on adventure. But all his exciting dreams for the future are knocked off course when a frightening medical emergency puts their trip on pause.

As he adjusts to life on the busy Etzio spaceport, Riley begins to suspect that there's more to his dad's choices than he knows. But when a surprising encounter brings to light a shocking past, can Riley choose the right course for his future? Or will secrets and silence ruin everything that matters most?

What will it take to move beyond her mission?

Jaelyn Rolfe has grown up with a singular purpose: to end the reign of a brutal dictator and rid the world of her father's terrible legacy. But victory comes with a price, and she soon finds her role in the plot spawning consequences no one anticipated.

Caught unexpectedly between her training and her heart, will Jaelyn find the strength to chart a new course? Can a girl so skilled at deception ever truly earn trust? And when a sudden blow threatens her hard-won triumph, will everything she's fought for be lost forever?

He left his entire world in Iraq. So why did the war follow him home?

Harley Keane and his best friend Nigel were just kids when 9/11 rocked their world and changed their lives forever. When they’re finally old enough to join the Army, all their childhood dreams seem about to come true. But war wasn’t supposed to be like this. A kid’s dream isn’t supposed to become a living nightmare. Fellow soldiers aren’t supposed to bleed out in front of your eyes.

Back home, safe and unwounded, Harley feels anything but. Why would God spare him when so many others were taken? Why won’t the nightmares stop, even when he’s awake? And how long can he hide the truth that threatens everything he has left? When Harley’s invisible scars refuse to stay hidden, will he let anyone close enough to help? And how do you go on with life when “okay” isn’t okay at all?

Something has to change—but what?

To Lawrence and Lenexa Johnson, an invitation to a new summer camp is like a breath of fresh air. What could be better than two weeks of living like real kids—away from stuck-up schoolmates, rigid housekeepers, and absent parents? There’s only one problem: they’ll have hard work getting permission for any camp with “Christian” in its name.

As the twins map out their plan of attack, they have no idea of the ripples that this one small choice will cause. Before they know it, they're presented with more decisions than they’ve ever had to make in their lives—some big, some small, and some with eternal significance. Can Lawrence and Lenexa prove that they’re old enough to make their own choices? And what will those choices be?

Some scars can’t be seen. And some can’t be hidden.

Layla Trent’s life is pretty much perfect, except for the little matter of a dog of her own–and maybe a brother. So why does a random nightmare of a princess dress, a hospital, and a stranger who’s definitely not her daddy feel more like an aching wound? And can a broken, glassy-eyed puppy somehow help her release the pain she didn’t even know she was carrying? 

Corporal Andrew Reyes has proven he has what it takes to be the best–a US Army Ranger. But when a double tragedy rocks his world, his resolve is shaken to the core. What’s left for a man to live for when he’s lost everything he ever wanted to be? And is the sudden appearance of a teenage girl with a three-legged therapy dog a cruel joke or a divine appointment?

Some scars can’t be hidden. But some don’t need to be.

Why is Ella back in town if not for Christmas?

The last person Ford Merrick expects to literally run into in his high-end store is the cousin he hasn't seen in five years. Ella claims everything’s fine, but she refuses to come to the house or join the family Christmas party, retreating instead to a cheap hotel without a word of explanation.

But the Merricks don't give up easily, and an unexpected phone call changes everything. Ford is determined to help his cousin at any cost, but how can he convince her to accept it? And what will it take to open her eyes to the One whose love she’s rejected for so many years?

How do you measure the worth of a life?

After EMT Roman Carter is called to a failed abortion, he's forced to battle both his own scars and his inability to stop the evil system that holds so many in its grasp. But could the tiny baby cupped in his hands prove a powerful ally in the fight?

When Amber Gray gets her first glimpse of the baby, she can't believe her eyes. It wasn't supposed to be like this. He wasn't supposed to be whole, or a fighter, or in such obvious pain. With help from Roman and his wife, Amber works to turn her life around and atone for her terrible error. But how could God possibly use her after such an unspeakable act?

As one little life struggles for survival, countless others hang in the balance. Just how far can a tiny miracle reach?

Is this all the plan God has in store?

Kylie Zeller hasn’t done much with her life since college, unless you count babysitting, house-sitting, and a job that’s easier described than named. So when an old friend fresh from medical school and Switzerland turns up while she’s waiting for her sister’s new baby, his appearance sparks both fond memories and budding regrets for everything she’s missed out on.

With her latest project drawing to a close, Kylie attempts to look to the future, but her plans seem blocked at every turn. Can she learn to trust God’s timing even when His answer is “wait”? Can Mitch help her see that His path for her life may stretch beyond what she can imagine?

Something sinister is afoot, but where?

The arrival of a gun-toting stranger in a little Western town causes quite a stir. Who is this man? What is he after? And most importantly, which side of the law is he on?

Jim Wood likes the look of the area, but before he can think of settling down, he'll have to finish the business that brought him here. With doubt and suspicion on every side, can he find the answers he needs? Or will evil win out before the truth is revealed?

Could God choose to use even her weakness?

Miss Anna Albert is worried. In the months since their son's disappearance, Mrs. Kenagy has grown steadily sadder, while her husband seems to have turned his back on God. But what really happened to Ben? Is there any way to know for sure? And how could a girl with no voice ever help find the answer?

When she confides her troubles to Jim Wood, he offers his assistance in solving the puzzle, but to Anna's surprise, he seems to truly want her help. Is it possible God can use her despite her silence? And might He have plans for her beyond her greatest dreams?

Is something wrong at the Halstead ranch?

Lake Wood can't shake the feeling that trouble is in the wind for his pretty neighbor, Jane Halstead. First her uncle didn't show when he promised, and now suspicious strangers are lurking about her ranch. But is the trouble purely in his own imagination? Or is there real cause for concern?

When odd happenings, jarring revelations, and convenient accidents pile up, Lake enlists the help of his family and friends to get to the bottom of things. But can they find the truth in time to foil the plot? And what more can Lake do to protect the girl he loves?

Hoping. Planning. Waiting.

Everything in her life is wrapped up in the thought of this new sister, coming from so far away. Will the day ever arrive? And if it does, will it be everything they dreamed? In this short poetic narrative, follow along on a young girl's journey as she discovers the true meaning of love, family, and sisterhood.

True excellence comes with a price...

Eva has never doubted her coach's ability, but a startling conversation leaves her mind racing with questions. Are the girls' suspicions true? Why won't Alexei let her compete? And how can she learn to be her best without a better coach?

When her preoccupation leads her into danger, Alexei steps in, and Eva is forced to make a choice. Will she follow a fleeting dream or embrace the lessons her coach can teach?

What difference can one little tree make?

Old Marley is determined to make a proper celebration for young Sonny, Christmas tree and all, but new problems seem to rise at every turn. When the boy takes matters into his own hands, will their plans end in disaster? Or will the elusive tree finally open the door to a true Christmas blessing?

What's left when the world falls apart?

The only concern on Alli's mind is planning her upcoming trip with her sister—until a bolt from a clear sky turns the world upside down. But as shock and grief close in, Alli comes face to face with others just as devastated by the events as she is, and with even more reason to fear. Can she find a way to share hope with those who need it most?

What will she find beyond the border?

When Jessica signs up for a mission trip to work with orphans in China, she knows the experience will stretch her beyond the limits of anything she's experienced before. But she has no idea of the lasting impact the trip will leave for more than just herself. How many lives will be touched when one girl dares to reach beyond comfort?

Peace on earth, good will to men...

Samuel Edmunton isn’t expecting a quiet Christmas Eve with his family to explode into the threat of a range war. But when three beleaguered sheep ranchers seek shelter in his barn, what’s a cattleman to do? Is there a way to restore the peace on earth that his neighbors seem bent on extinguishing?

What kind of doors can a dropped key open?

The Stamper family is shocked when a half-frozen stranger stumbles into their house just before the holidays, but neither Ron nor Lizzie can understand Frank’s harsh reaction. Does his anger truly stem from the sick boy upstairs, or does it have some deeper root? And can anything redeem this Christmas?

Memories. Gifts. And so much more.

When her beloved grandmother suffers a heart attack, Olivia pours her love, fear, and grief into a new quilting project, rekindling the passion they once shared. But only through a very special Christmas does she come to see the true significance of her gifts . . . and the legacy they carry.

A sinister threat. A shocking betrayal. A single rose.

Jan has poured her grief over her brother's death into finishing his work—crippling the terrible system they'd unknowingly helped to build. But when a strange gift beckons her to seek out Kevin's betrayer, will she find the answers she needs? Or will hate and anger shatter everything she holds dear?

Heroes? In these bodies? You've got to be kidding!

All Brady Owen wants from this highly experimental research program is a chance at normalcy, away from the crushing migraines that dominate his life. So when he wakes in the lab with the ability to hear distant sounds, see through walls, and sense microscopic particles with his fingers, his fractured world tips on its axis.

Brady's temporary enhancements land him among a ragtag band of young chronic illness warriors for whom the treatments have had similar effects. But how can a guy be a hero when some days he can't even lift his head from the pillow? And why would God give him a gift that's not even his to control?

Nothing like jumping in at the deep end...

Just weeks after his first encounter with the treatment's...unusual side-effects, it's Brady's turn under the needle again. Rachelle seems confident he can use his new powers for good, but Brady isn't so sure. How do you stop crime with super senses anyway, especially when the world doesn't know your secret?

With the team at his back, Brady makes his first foray onto the streets, but nothing is as easy as it seems. Oh, and did he mention it didn't seem that easy in the first place? Will Brady find a reason to stick with the project, or is this all a dead end?

Is this city big enough for the both of them?

Brady may have finally embraced his new superhero status, but he never asked to be paired up with Dash on a mission day. Sure, the guy’s got some kind of heart under his rough exterior, but he’s not a big fan of sharing, and Brady can’t exactly choose when to schedule his migraines. Oh, and have you ever tried to keep out of the way of a speedster who doesn’t want you around?

Two are supposed to be stronger than one, but Brady can only hope they’ll get through the day without ripping the team apart. Is there something more behind Dash’s rotten attitude? And can any good come from being forced to work together?

Accidents have a way of shaking things loose...

Brady wasn't supposed to worry about Rachelle on her mission days; after all, she's better equipped than anyone to take care of herself on the street. But when a reckless driver plows into Car's sedan, the mechanical damage doesn't even rank on their list of worries.

With Car in critical condition and Rachelle struggling to evade discovery, the rest of the team scrambles for a way to help as Grace's past trauma resurfaces like a flood. But how can Brady comfort her when the story proves far more complex than he knew? And how do you find the courage to hold on when your whole world crashes in?

Of all the times for a real emergency!

As rumors swirl of a young deaf boy lost in a condemned building, the team is dismayed to find that none of them are sick enough to take on the job. Rachelle counsels patience, but that's easier said than done with a child's life on the line and tantalizing superpowers sitting just out of reach.

When Harper defies orders and triggers a flare on purpose, the fallout spreads to Brady as well. But why should a mission they chose for themselves be any worse than normal? And when things inevitably slip sideways, will the powers they trusted be enough to get everyone safely home?

How could the doctor go this far?

As the newest member of the team, Brady shouldn’t be surprised that he’s not the last. But nothing prepared him to face a panicked teen with the lung capacity to bring the building down around their ears.

Marcus Robinson is sweet, friendly, likeable—and way too young to bring into the group without letting his family in on the secret. Will his unique strengths be enough to earn him a place in the den? Or will the risks to the rest of the team prove insurmountable? 

What difference could a little snow make? 

The Tilman family is all settled in for a cozy Christmas at home, with no fears for the threatening snow. But when the roads become impassable and stranded travelers flock to their door, cozy quickly becomes crazy! When the storm stretches longer than anticipated, can a crowd of strangers come together to make a meaningful Christmas?

Don't forget the fireflies...

Serenity Darling has it all—a great job, a good salary, clients clamoring for her work. So why is her happiness and contentment steadily slipping away?

As the frantic pace threatens to consume her life, will Serenity see the danger before it's too late? And could a childhood scene hold the answers she needs?

Might all her years of faithful service finally be rewarded?

The arrival of the winter robins is always a high point in Miss Kate Hamilton’s life. With her sister’s children grown and no word from her brother’s family in the east, the little feathered visitors are her one remaining comfort. But as she ponders her solitary existence and wonders if her purpose is finished, an unexpected meeting rocks her quiet world. Will Miss Kate finally receive a glimpse of how God’s purpose has worked through everything?

Mystery shimmers in the summer air...

Mr. and Mrs. Cutlass are anticipating a hot, dull summer on the ranch, but when their niece and nephew arrive from the city with a young guest, all fear of dullness evaporates. The children are charmed with ranch life and intrigued by the mysterious recurring puddle under the pump and some strange findings in the hayloft. Will they discover a friend or an enemy at the end of the trail?

Some words don't need to be said...

When little Katie becomes distraught at the idea of parting from her big brother, Ethan makes her a special promise. But as new seasons and challenges arise, will their pact be strong enough to quiet Katie's fears? How can she truly be sure they'll never have to say goodbye?

Would one mistake leave two hearts broken forever?

When a young neighbor volunteers to help with her chores, Amber little expects the sweet friendship that blossoms between them. Pedro is always cheerful, thoughtful, and brimming with life--until a single accident threatens to ruin everything. Can Amber overcome her own hurt and show him the true significance of her grandfather's cherished mug?

What was she to do with this restlessness? 

Miss Lacey's mood is as gray as the dripping autumn sky, but she won't let herself dwell on the reason. When an unexpected visitor throws the quiet house into a flutter, Miss Lacey is more than glad to distract herself from her churning thoughts. But when her guest's arrival fails to settle the nagging question in her heart, will she finally face the truth she's evaded for years?

Can anything save her from the trial ahead?

Hannah Reeve knows her cousin’s coming engagement ought to be cause for joy, but Beatrice’s cruel thrusts and the secrets of her own traitorous heart threaten to ruin more than just her composure. Will Hannah find a way to keep her serenity while the kindest man she knows offers his hand to her greatest tormenter? Or does this dreaded evening have something else in store?

"Dearest Paul...do tell me what I should do!"

With her adored older brother away in the West, Lucy is hovering on the brink of despair. How can she ever stay cheerful and good without Paul's help and guidance?

Paul knows the answer to his sister's troubles, but convincing her is another matter. When their letters prove too slow to prevent calamity, can he lead her to his own source of help?

"Oh, what change a day can make!"

Lucy's life has never looked brighter than since her recent engagement, and she pours out her raptures as usual in letters to her older brother. But clouds are gathering beyond her vision, and her commitment is soon to be tested in ways she never expected.

When the storm unleashes its fury, can Paul help her find her way? Or will her chance for happiness be lost forever?

What makes a real hero?

Henry Rader isn’t looking to be a hero when he and his dog head out to earn some money for their struggling family. And when little acts of kindness pop up along their path, he’s just glad to have Indie along to help. But when the town can’t stop buzzing about the mysterious pair, will those small offerings open the door to a miracle Henry never imagined? 

Has she found the perfect gift?

Magdalen Morris is more than content with her quiet life in the small town of Homewood. But when a rich stranger makes her the offer of a lifetime, Magda can’t turn down the chance to make a real difference for her sister’s family. Will she have the courage to face Christmas miles from home in a big city? Or is this sacrifice truly what her family wants most?

“The light shines in the darkness...”

As a child growing up on her grandparents’ ranch, Brinlee never imagined running it by herself, much less converting it into a refuge for innocent children fleeing a brutal war. And she never would have believed how much one toddler’s sunny little presence could brighten her lonely road. With all the suffering and pain surrounding them, will Joy’s influence reach farther than she knows? 

What's so special about an ordinary girl?

Everything in Allissa's life is average and invisible—except her Daddy. Handsome, witty, brave, and strong, he's everything she is not. But of all the people in the world, he treats her like she's truly special.

When a routine day takes a startling turn, Allissa learns that her Daddy's love goes far deeper than she ever imagined. Why would he give up so much for her? Does she truly have worth beyond what she sees? And could there be more love waiting for her, even if she's just Allissa?

Does hope have a price tag?

Jolie and Elliana have a problem. Or at least, Mama and Stephen do, and that’s just as bad. The little girls don’t quite understand why talking about “more gages” makes Mama so sad and Stephen so worried, but they’re determined to find a way to help. Can a handful of change and a heart full of hope somehow spark the miracle they need?

How'd I ever be the great man Ma wanted if I didn't take time for my lessons?

Everyone knows that Dan is destined for greatness. But when his teacher insists that he put schoolwork above everything else, his heart is torn. Is personal ambition worth the cost to his family? Or does a better lesson await beyond the pages of his schoolbooks?

What can I give him, poor as I am...

Brianna wants nothing more than to give Jesus a gift for Christmas, but what does a wheelchair-bound girl have to offer when she's already given her heart? Her little recorder provides a sudden inspiration, but surely cheering up one passerby isn't much of a gift.

But the ripples of her song stretch farther than she knows, reaching neighbors, friends, and strangers alike. How many lives will be touched by the echo of a simple Christmas tune?

Was Danna the only one I'd been blind to all these years?

Returning home from a disastrous ski trip, Jake is quick to trace Mel's hand in the welcoming touches scattered throughout his apartment. But when a closer look reveals more than she intended to show, Jake's world is turned upside down. Can he somehow prove to Mel that he's woken up at last, or has he lost the chance forever?

How had she gotten herself into this mess? 

Eagerly anticipating her first Junior Ranger camping trip, Sharon doesn't want to waste time for anything—even her uncle's Bible reading. But when a mission of mercy strands her alone in the woods, her plans for the night are ruined. Will the other Junior Rangers find her before something terrible happens? And can Sharon remember God's promises when there's nothing left to cling to?

Was it even possible to fix this mess?

Still reeling from the sudden wreck of her career, the last thing Julie wants to do is visit her brother in juvenile detention. But when Colton’s plight brings her face to face with her own failures, Julie’s well-ordered world is rocked to its core. Is there any way to get her life back on track? And what will she do about Colton?

No one should be forgotten at Christmas... 

The approaching holiday season brings no joy for Elenora Gregory. Isolated and forgotten, she ekes out a meager existence for herself and her mother, but with no money for even ordinary comforts, a Christmas celebration is far beyond her reach. How can others have so much when her life is so empty?

Amid the whirl of holiday preparations, Edwin Langton can't forget the face of the girl in the red cloak. Enlisting the help of his siblings, he quickly discovers the truth of her need. Can they find a way to make Christmas brighter for the lonely little family?

As the Langtons prepare their surprises, Elenora resigns herself to another cold, lonely holiday. But will their presents be the greatest gift she receives on Christmas Day?

How did my desperate strategy end up here?

All Savannah Murphy signed up for was babysitting her brood of nieces and nephews for the day. She didn't plan on all-out war breaking loose at naptime, and she certainly wasn't prepared to deliver cards to the one person on the church's shut-in list who couldn't possibly appreciate them. But can Anson forgive her awful blunder? Or will the slip have farther reaching consequences than either of them anticipate?

These weren't the Christmas surprises they expected... 

Christmas chaos at the Melson house usually involves wrapping paper and toys, not a broken window and a bare space under the tree. After a morning of questioning officers and chattering children, Amanda resigns herself to a very un-Christmasy day. But can the heroes on the Pineville police force find a way to save the family's Christmas?

Alone and unloved—did anyone care? 

All she wants for Christmas is to be free of the cold and snow. But when a wrong turn sends her on an unexpected detour, Mercy finds the kindness of strangers warming her in body and soul. Could the Providence her parents believed in truly have provided this for her?

What will it take to guard her dearest treasure?

Blenwyn Osheen is no stranger to hard work and trouble, but the children's fascination with their father's anxious forebodings is a problem she doesn't know how to solve. And so is the kind surgeon who insists on treating her like an equal instead of a servant.

When a particularly disastrous day rocks their world, is there anything Blenwyn can do to protect the family she loves as her own? Can she somehow stop the children's headlong rush into danger? And when a hand is reached out to help her, will she choose to trust her head or her heart?

Symphony's umbrella is her trademark - and her shield. Hiding away from a world of trouble and pain, she generally manages to avoid everyone. Until she meets Jack.

Jack's latest job search seems to have stalled, leaving him plenty of time to roam the park and wonder about the young girl with the red umbrella. It's obvious she wants to be alone, but it's just as obvious that she needs a friend.

Will Symphony's secret give new purpose to Jack's apparently aimless life? Can he bring her out of her red cocoon and into the beauty and truth that awaits her? Two lives will be forever changed by the secrets of a red umbrella.

Abandoned and alone—or are they?

After Marick's ship is wrecked on a barren planet, companionship is the least of his worries. But when he rescues a strange girl from a watery death, their lives will change in ways neither could have predicted. As unseen dangers threaten, the two must band together for survival, and in the process, uncover the secrets hidden in the forbidden world—and each other.

Anything's better than spending Christmas alone...isn't it?

Sidney has the perfect Christmas plan for herself and her brother, involving motorcycles, a road trip, and a dear pair of relatives waiting at the end. Lance isn't so sure it's the wisest idea—cold and snow aside, his sister has to face up to their painful past at some point. But when an unexpected complication forces old scars to the surface, will Sidney's plan end up ruining or saving their Christmas?

Bryson was finally home and safe—wasn't he?

All Madison wants is to be with her brother, whose recent brush with death has made him more precious to her than ever. But despite repeated assurances that he's fine, an undercurrent of tension leaves her wondering what secrets lie beneath the surface.

Alone with Bryson on her first night home, can Madison find the truth behind the shadows that lurk in her brother's eyes? Or will he succeed in shutting out the help he needs most?

What will it take to save Miss Christmas?

Christine only wanted a quiet place to spend the holiday she's grown to detest. She certainly didn't expect to find her face plastered on every storefront–or the crowd of eager young children who seem to think her synonymous with the season itself. But will their holiday joy be enough to revive her own? Or is their beloved Miss Christmas gone forever?

Ten children. Two families. One chance.

Convincing onlookers that her best friend Mikyah Byrd is truly more like a brother seems like a never-ending task to Jenna Denton. But when calamity strikes the Byrd household, her family's help becomes more crucial than she ever imagined. Will the Dentons' love and commitment be enough to keep their unusual family intact? Or will a perfect storm of troubles separate them forever?

Is their common love strong enough to defy the future?

Anna Ellington is at the end of her rope. Drowning in debt from her mother’s final illness and with HALEY, the world’s latest artificial intelligence, obliterating her job prospects, an unusual want ad may be her only salvation—if the stranger on the other end truly wants her beloved antique typewriter. To her surprise, Lev Morozov is nothing like she expected, and he offers her more than she could have dreamed. But when a hidden truth comes to light and the specter of HALEY once more raises its head, can their growing trust weather the storm?

Will hidden wounds mar the meaning of the day?

Anna is relishing her carefree vacation in a small southern town, miles away from the pervading influence of HALEY. So much so that when the old-fashioned Independence Day festival beckons, she's willing to sacrifice her own self-consciousness to join in Lev's wholehearted recognition of all the holiday stands for. But neither has imagined just how the noisy customs will strike a heart still wounded from the tragedies of the past. Can they find the true significance of the Fourth beneath the roar of its celebration?

How far would you go to help an enemy?

Anna and Lev are enjoying a rustic fall hike when a rainstorm forces them into proximity with a testy teenager. When River’s disdain for technology in general and HALEY in particular provokes unexpected violence, Anna is more than ready to banish the troublesome acquaintance from her thoughts. But when the teen’s impetuous temper leaves her gravely injured, neither Anna nor Lev can abandon her to her fate. What will they be willing to risk to rescue the girl who’s wronged them?

If only I could start the day over...

Kale Greene’s life was never perfect, but his last few days with the Taylor family have been better than most. Or they were until today. Now he’s ruined everything, and for more than just himself.

When yet another attempt to make things right falls through, will it mean a fitting end or a new beginning? Can anything fix a day that’s gone so completely wrong?

How far can a promise reach?

Since aging out of the foster care system, Stephen's life has gone from bad to worse. As he wrestles with a bleak present and a grim future, an unexpected encounter with a girl and her kitten changes everything. But will his improvised rescue end in disaster, or does God have other plans?

Why on earth had he ended up here?

When Tommy awakes in a soft bed, he knows two things for sure: this isn't his home, and Diego is nowhere in sight. But why was he found on this side of town? What could have caused his injuries? And how can he possibly find the answers when he's not even allowed out of bed?

The kind doctor promises to look into things and urges him not to worry, but will Tommy's secret prove more than either of them bargained for?

What can you hide through a window?

Annalyse never expected to make a friend through a window, but her talks with the guy who lives next to the bus stop have become a favorite part of her day. But when a sudden schedule change reveals a secret he hadn't meant to share, is there anything she can do to make things right? Or is their window friendship broken beyond repair?

Could an old, familiar hymn light the way to home and rest?

Arthur Fowler has finally found the answers to the questions that drove him west twelve years ago, but new obstacles lie in his path. Will his wounded leg hold for the long journey home? Will his family still be there when he reaches it? And what will they say to the return of their long-lost prodigal? As he nears the end of his quest, Arthur finds hope in his mother's favorite hymn and the promises it contains.

Who holds the key to Woodbreak's hidden past?

When Ryan and Robin decide to search out the history of their family's ranch, their quest leads them to an old box filled with curious artifacts. Who was the mysterious Anna? What brought her west? And what connection does she have to the strange name carved into the log?

A peek into Anna's diary reveals a few answers but even more questions. Is there anyone who can show them the truth of Woodbreak?

Heroes? In these bodies? You've got to be kidding!

All Brady Owen wants from this highly experimental research program is a chance at normalcy, away from the crushing migraines that dominate his life. So when he wakes in the lab with the ability to hear distant sounds, see through walls, and sense microscopic particles with his fingers, his fractured world tips on its axis.

Brady's temporary enhancements land him among a ragtag band of young chronic illness warriors for whom the treatments have had similar effects. But how can a guy be a hero when some days he can't even lift his head from the pillow? And why would God give him a gift that's not even his to control?

Nothing like jumping in at the deep end...

Just weeks after his first encounter with the treatment's...unusual side-effects, it's Brady's turn under the needle again. Rachelle seems confident he can use his new powers for good, but Brady isn't so sure. How do you stop crime with super senses anyway, especially when the world doesn't know your secret?

With the team at his back, Brady makes his first foray onto the streets, but nothing is as easy as it seems. Oh, and did he mention it didn't seem that easy in the first place? Will Brady find a reason to stick with the project, or is this all a dead end?

Is this city big enough for the both of them?

Brady may have finally embraced his new superhero status, but he never asked to be paired up with Dash on a mission day. Sure, the guy’s got some kind of heart under his rough exterior, but he’s not a big fan of sharing, and Brady can’t exactly choose when to schedule his migraines. Oh, and have you ever tried to keep out of the way of a speedster who doesn’t want you around?

Two are supposed to be stronger than one, but Brady can only hope they’ll get through the day without ripping the team apart. Is there something more behind Dash’s rotten attitude? And can any good come from being forced to work together?

Accidents have a way of shaking things loose...

Brady wasn't supposed to worry about Rachelle on her mission days; after all, she's better equipped than anyone to take care of herself on the street. But when a reckless driver plows into Car's sedan, the mechanical damage doesn't even rank on their list of worries.

With Car in critical condition and Rachelle struggling to evade discovery, the rest of the team scrambles for a way to help as Grace's past trauma resurfaces like a flood. But how can Brady comfort her when the story proves far more complex than he knew? And how do you find the courage to hold on when your whole world crashes in?

Of all the times for a real emergency!

As rumors swirl of a young deaf boy lost in a condemned building, the team is dismayed to find that none of them are sick enough to take on the job. Rachelle counsels patience, but that's easier said than done with a child's life on the line and tantalizing superpowers sitting just out of reach.

When Harper defies orders and triggers a flare on purpose, the fallout spreads to Brady as well. But why should a mission they chose for themselves be any worse than normal? And when things inevitably slip sideways, will the powers they trusted be enough to get everyone safely home?

How could the doctor go this far?

As the newest member of the team, Brady shouldn’t be surprised that he’s not the last. But nothing prepared him to face a panicked teen with the lung capacity to bring the building down around their ears.

Marcus Robinson is sweet, friendly, likeable—and way too young to bring into the group without letting his family in on the secret. Will his unique strengths be enough to earn him a place in the den? Or will the risks to the rest of the team prove insurmountable? 

"Dearest Paul...do tell me what I should do!"

With her adored older brother away in the West, Lucy is hovering on the brink of despair. How can she ever stay cheerful and good without Paul's help and guidance?

Paul knows the answer to his sister's troubles, but convincing her is another matter. When their letters prove too slow to prevent calamity, can he lead her to his own source of help?

"Oh, what change a day can make!"

Lucy's life has never looked brighter than since her recent engagement, and she pours out her raptures as usual in letters to her older brother. But clouds are gathering beyond her vision, and her commitment is soon to be tested in ways she never expected.

When the storm unleashes its fury, can Paul help her find her way? Or will her chance for happiness be lost forever?

What will it take to guard her dearest treasure?

Blenwyn Osheen is no stranger to hard work and trouble, but the children's fascination with their father's anxious forebodings is a problem she doesn't know how to solve. And so is the kind surgeon who insists on treating her like an equal instead of a servant.

When a particularly disastrous day rocks their world, is there anything Blenwyn can do to protect the family she loves as her own? Can she somehow stop the children's headlong rush into danger? And when a hand is reached out to help her, will she choose to trust her head or her heart?

What will it take to move beyond her mission?

Jaelyn Rolfe has grown up with a singular purpose: to end the reign of a brutal dictator and rid the world of her father's terrible legacy. But victory comes with a price, and she soon finds her role in the plot spawning consequences no one anticipated.

Caught unexpectedly between her training and her heart, will Jaelyn find the strength to chart a new course? Can a girl so skilled at deception ever truly earn trust? And when a sudden blow threatens her hard-won triumph, will everything she's fought for be lost forever?

What will it take to rid the world of a tyrant?

Inger Stein is no stranger to heartbreak and struggle, but when a trio of battered resistance fighters seek refuge at her door, her world is destined to change again forever. Can she convince her town that the sacrifice they ask is worth the hope they offer? Or will resentment and suspicion snuff out the country's chance for freedom?

A short story, previously published as part of Hope

with Scraps and Sketches, a collection of short short stories tracing the progress of the resistance through the eyes of each of the Quiet Valor heroines

Is their common love strong enough to defy the future?

Anna Ellington is at the end of her rope. Drowning in debt from her mother’s final illness and with HALEY, the world’s latest artificial intelligence, obliterating her job prospects, an unusual want ad may be her only salvation—if the stranger on the other end truly wants her beloved antique typewriter. To her surprise, Lev Morozov is nothing like she expected, and he offers her more than she could have dreamed. But when a hidden truth comes to light and the specter of HALEY once more raises its head, can their growing trust weather the storm?

Will hidden wounds mar the meaning of the day?

Anna is relishing her carefree vacation in a small southern town, miles away from the pervading influence of HALEY. So much so that when the old-fashioned Independence Day festival beckons, she's willing to sacrifice her own self-consciousness to join in Lev's wholehearted recognition of all the holiday stands for. But neither has imagined just how the noisy customs will strike a heart still wounded from the tragedies of the past. Can they find the true significance of the Fourth beneath the roar of its celebration?

How far would you go to help an enemy?

Anna and Lev are enjoying a rustic fall hike when a rainstorm forces them into proximity with a testy teenager. When River’s disdain for technology in general and HALEY in particular provokes unexpected violence, Anna is more than ready to banish the troublesome acquaintance from her thoughts. But when the teen’s impetuous temper leaves her gravely injured, neither Anna nor Lev can abandon her to her fate. What will they be willing to risk to rescue the girl who’s wronged them?

Who holds the key to Woodbreak's hidden past?

When Ryan and Robin decide to search out the history of their family's ranch, their quest leads them to an old box filled with curious artifacts. Who was the mysterious Anna? What brought her west? And what connection does she have to the strange name carved into the log?

A peek into Anna's diary reveals a few answers but even more questions. Is there anyone who can show them the truth of Woodbreak?

Something sinister is afoot, but where?

The arrival of a gun-toting stranger in a little Western town causes quite a stir. Who is this man? What is he after? And most importantly, which side of the law is he on?

Jim Wood likes the look of the area, but before he can think of settling down, he'll have to finish the business that brought him here. With doubt and suspicion on every side, can he find the answers he needs? Or will evil win out before the truth is revealed?

Could God choose to use even her weakness?

Miss Anna Albert is worried. In the months since their son's disappearance, Mrs. Kenagy has grown steadily sadder, while her husband seems to have turned his back on God. But what really happened to Ben? Is there any way to know for sure? And how could a girl with no voice ever help find the answer?

When she confides her troubles to Jim Wood, he offers his assistance in solving the puzzle, but to Anna's surprise, he seems to truly want her help. Is it possible God can use her despite her silence? And might He have plans for her beyond her greatest dreams?

Is something wrong at the Halstead ranch?

Lake Wood can't shake the feeling that trouble is in the wind for his pretty neighbor, Jane Halstead. First her uncle didn't show when he promised, and now suspicious strangers are lurking about her ranch. But is the trouble purely in his own imagination? Or is there real cause for concern?

When odd happenings, jarring revelations, and convenient accidents pile up, Lake enlists the help of his family and friends to get to the bottom of things. But can they find the truth in time to foil the plot? And what more can Lake do to protect the girl he loves?

Savor the warmth of the season with this special collection of twelve short stories from Rebekah A. Morris's Christmas Collection!

The holidays can bring unexpected stress--a ruined school play, a Christmas Eve break-in, or a crowd of stranded motorists. But they're also packed with opportunities for family togetherness--for healing old wounds, rediscovering simple pleasures, and reviving old traditions. They're full of chances to show love to strangers--a college friend sharing a family celebration, a lonely child looking for shelter from the cold, or an immigrant family bravely trying to make a home. And above all, they're a time of miracles--an unplanned meeting in a blizzard that mends a broken family, an open door that ushers in an unexpected reunion, and a set of unforeseen delays that result in a perfectly-timed rescue.

Whether your holiday ideal involves snowballs and sledding, shows and singing, or sacrifice and sharing, you're sure to find it here, along with a large serving of the true meaning of Christmas!

Twenty-five short reads inspired by themes from the Christmas story

Celebrate the true spirit of the season with this collection of five-minute holiday stories. Perfect to pair with your morning coffee or binge-read while curled up with a favorite blanket on a snowy afternoon!

From a stately mansion to a rough barn, from a cheerful fireside to a lonely mountain road, from a chaotic church pageant to the grim aftermath of war, no heart is without its burden. But no trouble is too deep to be touched by the light of love and the warmth of Christmas.

Come home to a small-town Christmas through the ages...

The close-knit community of Homewood, Minnesota might not even be a dot on most maps. But from its earliest settlement to the present day, a warm Christmas welcome and a shining Moravian star have been its hallmarks of the holiday.

Step into the bustle of preparations as a young orphan travels an unexpected path to the Christmas he’s longed for and a boisterous flock of cousins learns the eternal secrets of the Christmas fruit bowl. Follow a wintery road with a widowed mother in the shadow of war and a generous aunt trying her best for her family as they search for a place where they truly belong. Slip into the fire glow next to a lonely stranger with a terrible secret and a hometown girl trying to escape past hurts, and watch Christmas light and love warm even the coldest places.

With so many ways to celebrate the season, one reason undergirds them all—and the Christmas stars of Homewood never tire of telling His story!

Hoping. Planning. Waiting.

Everything in her life is wrapped up in the thought of this new sister, coming from so far away. Will the day ever arrive? And if it does, will it be everything they dreamed? In this short poetic narrative, follow along on a young girl's journey as she discovers the true meaning of love, family, and sisterhood.

True excellence comes with a price...

Eva has never doubted her coach's ability, but a startling conversation leaves her mind racing with questions. Are the girls' suspicions true? Why won't Alexei let her compete? And how can she learn to be her best without a better coach?

When her preoccupation leads her into danger, Alexei steps in, and Eva is forced to make a choice. Will she follow a fleeting dream or embrace the lessons her coach can teach?

What's left when the world falls apart?

The only concern on Alli's mind is planning her upcoming trip with her sister—until a bolt from a clear sky turns the world upside down. But as shock and grief close in, Alli comes face to face with others just as devastated by the events as she is, and with even more reason to fear. Can she find a way to share hope with those who need it most?

What will she find beyond the border?

When Jessica signs up for a mission trip to work with orphans in China, she knows the experience will stretch her beyond the limits of anything she's experienced before. But she has no idea of the lasting impact the trip will leave for more than just herself. How many lives will be touched when one girl dares to reach beyond comfort?

Three boys. One choice. No turning back.

Peyton is a rising star in the church who is well on the way to reaching his biggest dreams. Levi is a pastor's son struggling to live up to his faith under pressure from all sides. DaVonte is a kid from the wrong side of town who would be content if he and his friends were just left alone.

When an act of violence presents a sudden decision, each boy's answer will shake the community to its core and shape its future forever. Love and truth face off against fear and pride in this modern extension of one of Jesus' best-known parables.

Benny's coming hadn't changed anything—or had it?

With a new foster kid joining Alex Carson's family, everyone is prepared for changes. So when Benny slips into the tight-knit group with barely a ripple, the family is at once surprised and delighted.

But beneath the surface, deeper waters are stirred as Alex finds herself at odds with Jess over his jokes on the unsuspecting and gullible Benny. Will Jess's teasing and her own insecurities separate Alex from her brother? Or can a surprising source teach them a needed lesson in love?

Memories. Gifts. And so much more.

When her beloved grandmother suffers a heart attack, Olivia pours her love, fear, and grief into a new quilting project, rekindling the passion they once shared. But only through a very special Christmas does she come to see the true significance of her gifts . . . and the legacy they carry.

What difference could a little snow make? 

The Tilman family is all settled in for a cozy Christmas at home, with no fears for the threatening snow. But when the roads become impassable and stranded travelers flock to their door, cozy quickly becomes crazy! When the storm stretches longer than anticipated, can a crowd of strangers come together to make a meaningful Christmas?

Don't forget the fireflies...

Serenity Darling has it all—a great job, a good salary, clients clamoring for her work. So why is her happiness and contentment steadily slipping away?

As the frantic pace threatens to consume her life, will Serenity see the danger before it's too late? And could a childhood scene hold the answers she needs?

Who would care for three friendless orphans?

Sissy is sure it can’t be as easy to find a family as Aunt Jane made it sound when she dropped them by the side of the road. But she can't bear to break Clint’s childish faith or frighten little Nattie. Does God truly have a place for them?

The last thing Clint Younger expected to pick up on a trip to town was a family of orphans, but he can’t bear to turn them away, especially the eager little boy who shares his name and calls him Daddy. Can he solve the mystery of where they came from? And what about the other children he’s been searching for so long?

Some words don't need to be said...

When little Katie becomes distraught at the idea of parting from her big brother, Ethan makes her a special promise. But as new seasons and challenges arise, will their pact be strong enough to quiet Katie's fears? How can she truly be sure they'll never have to say goodbye?

Would one mistake leave two hearts broken forever?

When a young neighbor volunteers to help with her chores, Amber little expects the sweet friendship that blossoms between them. Pedro is always cheerful, thoughtful, and brimming with life--until a single accident threatens to ruin everything. Can Amber overcome her own hurt and show him the true significance of her grandfather's cherished mug?

What was she to do with this restlessness? 

Miss Lacey's mood is as gray as the dripping autumn sky, but she won't let herself dwell on the reason. When an unexpected visitor throws the quiet house into a flutter, Miss Lacey is more than glad to distract herself from her churning thoughts. But when her guest's arrival fails to settle the nagging question in her heart, will she finally face the truth she's evaded for years?

What makes a real hero?

Henry Rader isn’t looking to be a hero when he and his dog head out to earn some money for their struggling family. And when little acts of kindness pop up along their path, he’s just glad to have Indie along to help. But when the town can’t stop buzzing about the mysterious pair, will those small offerings open the door to a miracle Henry never imagined? 

What's so special about an ordinary girl?

Everything in Allissa's life is average and invisible—except her Daddy. Handsome, witty, brave, and strong, he's everything she is not. But of all the people in the world, he treats her like she's truly special.

When a routine day takes a startling turn, Allissa learns that her Daddy's love goes far deeper than she ever imagined. Why would he give up so much for her? Does she truly have worth beyond what she sees? And could there be more love waiting for her, even if she's just Allissa?

Can Liberty capture the true spark of the Fourth?

With their roots sunk deep in the Air Force and a patriotic lake community, the Goldman family practically bleeds red, white, and blue. So when their cousin Alec confesses a shocking degree of ignorance about the Fourth of July, the girls decide to give him a crash course on the true meaning of Independence Day.

But Liberty is facing her own struggle with the coming holiday and the fact that her dad's deployment means he'll miss this year's celebration—and her birthday. Will the spirit of patriotism and sacrifice that inspired the founding fathers come to her rescue? And can she show Alec that there's more to the Fourth than fireworks and tea?

What can I give him, poor as I am...

Brianna wants nothing more than to give Jesus a gift for Christmas, but what does a wheelchair-bound girl have to offer when she's already given her heart? Her little recorder provides a sudden inspiration, but surely cheering up one passerby isn't much of a gift.

But the ripples of her song stretch farther than she knows, reaching neighbors, friends, and strangers alike. How many lives will be touched by the echo of a simple Christmas tune?

Was Danna the only one I'd been blind to all these years?

Returning home from a disastrous ski trip, Jake is quick to trace Mel's hand in the welcoming touches scattered throughout his apartment. But when a closer look reveals more than she intended to show, Jake's world is turned upside down. Can he somehow prove to Mel that he's woken up at last, or has he lost the chance forever?

Could all these troubles ever lead to something good?

Vonnie Smith is trying hard to keep her spirits up, but with her family far away, her road home blocked for the forseeable future, and her Nan's small business on the brink of failure, it's easier said than done. Even reconnecting with her childhood "triplets" takes a sour turn when one of the boys breaks his leg in a freak accident—right in the middle of the shop!

With Vic and Val on her side, Vonnie is determined to prove that the little ice cream parlor can still turn a profit, but as blow after blow threatens her budding hopes, she can't help wondering where God is in all of the mess. Can she still find purpose when life seems to be crashing in around her? And can she manage to trust God and others when the answers are delayed?

Was it even possible to fix this mess?

Still reeling from the sudden wreck of her career, the last thing Julie wants to do is visit her brother in juvenile detention. But when Colton’s plight brings her face to face with her own failures, Julie’s well-ordered world is rocked to its core. Is there any way to get her life back on track? And what will she do about Colton?

In the cause of freedom, some will give their all.

When Matt Renicker joins the Army, he's determined to give his best for his country and his Lord, even if it means risking everything he loves most. But when tragedy strikes on a routine patrol, more than one heart is left shattered and lamenting.

In the wake of a terrible loss, will those left behind find the strength to go on? Or will the faith, family, and freedom Matt fought to preserve be broken beyond repair?

How did my desperate strategy end up here?

All Savannah Murphy signed up for was babysitting her brood of nieces and nephews for the day. She didn't plan on all-out war breaking loose at naptime, and she certainly wasn't prepared to deliver cards to the one person on the church's shut-in list who couldn't possibly appreciate them. But can Anson forgive her awful blunder? Or will the slip have farther reaching consequences than either of them anticipate?

These weren't the Christmas surprises they expected... 

Christmas chaos at the Melson house usually involves wrapping paper and toys, not a broken window and a bare space under the tree. After a morning of questioning officers and chattering children, Amanda resigns herself to a very un-Christmasy day. But can the heroes on the Pineville police force find a way to save the family's Christmas?

Symphony's umbrella is her trademark - and her shield. Hiding away from a world of trouble and pain, she generally manages to avoid everyone. Until she meets Jack.

Jack's latest job search seems to have stalled, leaving him plenty of time to roam the park and wonder about the young girl with the red umbrella. It's obvious she wants to be alone, but it's just as obvious that she needs a friend.

Will Symphony's secret give new purpose to Jack's apparently aimless life? Can he bring her out of her red cocoon and into the beauty and truth that awaits her? Two lives will be forever changed by the secrets of a red umbrella.

Anything's better than spending Christmas alone...isn't it?

Sidney has the perfect Christmas plan for herself and her brother, involving motorcycles, a road trip, and a dear pair of relatives waiting at the end. Lance isn't so sure it's the wisest idea—cold and snow aside, his sister has to face up to their painful past at some point. But when an unexpected complication forces old scars to the surface, will Sidney's plan end up ruining or saving their Christmas?

Bryson was finally home and safe—wasn't he?

All Madison wants is to be with her brother, whose recent brush with death has made him more precious to her than ever. But despite repeated assurances that he's fine, an undercurrent of tension leaves her wondering what secrets lie beneath the surface.

Alone with Bryson on her first night home, can Madison find the truth behind the shadows that lurk in her brother's eyes? Or will he succeed in shutting out the help he needs most?

What will it take to save Miss Christmas?

Christine only wanted a quiet place to spend the holiday she's grown to detest. She certainly didn't expect to find her face plastered on every storefront–or the crowd of eager young children who seem to think her synonymous with the season itself. But will their holiday joy be enough to revive her own? Or is their beloved Miss Christmas gone forever?

Ten children. Two families. One chance.

Convincing onlookers that her best friend Mikyah Byrd is truly more like a brother seems like a never-ending task to Jenna Denton. But when calamity strikes the Byrd household, her family's help becomes more crucial than she ever imagined. Will the Dentons' love and commitment be enough to keep their unusual family intact? Or will a perfect storm of troubles separate them forever?

He left his entire world in Iraq. So why did the war follow him home?

Harley Keane and his best friend Nigel were just kids when 9/11 rocked their world and changed their lives forever. When they’re finally old enough to join the Army, all their childhood dreams seem about to come true. But war wasn’t supposed to be like this. A kid’s dream isn’t supposed to become a living nightmare. Fellow soldiers aren’t supposed to bleed out in front of your eyes.

Back home, safe and unwounded, Harley feels anything but. Why would God spare him when so many others were taken? Why won’t the nightmares stop, even when he’s awake? And how long can he hide the truth that threatens everything he has left? When Harley’s invisible scars refuse to stay hidden, will he let anyone close enough to help? And how do you go on with life when “okay” isn’t okay at all?

Some scars can’t be seen. And some can’t be hidden.

Layla Trent’s life is pretty much perfect, except for the little matter of a dog of her own–and maybe a brother. So why does a random nightmare of a princess dress, a hospital, and a stranger who’s definitely not her daddy feel more like an aching wound? And can a broken, glassy-eyed puppy somehow help her release the pain she didn’t even know she was carrying? 

Corporal Andrew Reyes has proven he has what it takes to be the best–a US Army Ranger. But when a double tragedy rocks his world, his resolve is shaken to the core. What’s left for a man to live for when he’s lost everything he ever wanted to be? And is the sudden appearance of a teenage girl with a three-legged therapy dog a cruel joke or a divine appointment?

Some scars can’t be hidden. But some don’t need to be.

Why is Ella back in town if not for Christmas?

The last person Ford Merrick expects to literally run into in his high-end store is the cousin he hasn't seen in five years. Ella claims everything’s fine, but she refuses to come to the house or join the family Christmas party, retreating instead to a cheap hotel without a word of explanation.

But the Merricks don't give up easily, and an unexpected phone call changes everything. Ford is determined to help his cousin at any cost, but how can he convince her to accept it? And what will it take to open her eyes to the One whose love she’s rejected for so many years?

How do you measure the worth of a life?

After EMT Roman Carter is called to a failed abortion, he's forced to battle both his own scars and his inability to stop the evil system that holds so many in its grasp. But could the tiny baby cupped in his hands prove a powerful ally in the fight?

When Amber Gray gets her first glimpse of the baby, she can't believe her eyes. It wasn't supposed to be like this. He wasn't supposed to be whole, or a fighter, or in such obvious pain. With help from Roman and his wife, Amber works to turn her life around and atone for her terrible error. But how could God possibly use her after such an unspeakable act?

As one little life struggles for survival, countless others hang in the balance. Just how far can a tiny miracle reach?

If only I could start the day over...

Kale Greene’s life was never perfect, but his last few days with the Taylor family have been better than most. Or they were until today. Now he’s ruined everything, and for more than just himself.

When yet another attempt to make things right falls through, will it mean a fitting end or a new beginning? Can anything fix a day that’s gone so completely wrong?

How far can a promise reach?

Since aging out of the foster care system, Stephen's life has gone from bad to worse. As he wrestles with a bleak present and a grim future, an unexpected encounter with a girl and her kitten changes everything. But will his improvised rescue end in disaster, or does God have other plans?

Is this all the plan God has in store?

Kylie Zeller hasn’t done much with her life since college, unless you count babysitting, house-sitting, and a job that’s easier described than named. So when an old friend fresh from medical school and Switzerland turns up while she’s waiting for her sister’s new baby, his appearance sparks both fond memories and budding regrets for everything she’s missed out on.

With her latest project drawing to a close, Kylie attempts to look to the future, but her plans seem blocked at every turn. Can she learn to trust God’s timing even when His answer is “wait”? Can Mitch help her see that His path for her life may stretch beyond what she can imagine?

What can you hide through a window?

Annalyse never expected to make a friend through a window, but her talks with the guy who lives next to the bus stop have become a favorite part of her day. But when a sudden schedule change reveals a secret he hadn't meant to share, is there anything she can do to make things right? Or is their window friendship broken beyond repair?

What difference can one little tree make?

Old Marley is determined to make a proper celebration for young Sonny, Christmas tree and all, but new problems seem to rise at every turn. When the boy takes matters into his own hands, will their plans end in disaster? Or will the elusive tree finally open the door to a true Christmas blessing?

Peace on earth, good will to men...

Samuel Edmunton isn’t expecting a quiet Christmas Eve with his family to explode into the threat of a range war. But when three beleaguered sheep ranchers seek shelter in his barn, what’s a cattleman to do? Is there a way to restore the peace on earth that his neighbors seem bent on extinguishing?

What kind of doors can a dropped key open?

The Stamper family is shocked when a half-frozen stranger stumbles into their house just before the holidays, but neither Ron nor Lizzie can understand Frank’s harsh reaction. Does his anger truly stem from the sick boy upstairs, or does it have some deeper root? And can anything redeem this Christmas?

Might all her years of faithful service finally be rewarded?

The arrival of the winter robins is always a high point in Miss Kate Hamilton’s life. With her sister’s children grown and no word from her brother’s family in the east, the little feathered visitors are her one remaining comfort. But as she ponders her solitary existence and wonders if her purpose is finished, an unexpected meeting rocks her quiet world. Will Miss Kate finally receive a glimpse of how God’s purpose has worked through everything?

Mystery shimmers in the summer air...

Mr. and Mrs. Cutlass are anticipating a hot, dull summer on the ranch, but when their niece and nephew arrive from the city with a young guest, all fear of dullness evaporates. The children are charmed with ranch life and intrigued by the mysterious recurring puddle under the pump and some strange findings in the hayloft. Will they discover a friend or an enemy at the end of the trail?

A suspicious bill, a coded plea, and the Graham Quartet are ready for action!

Out along the lonely stretches of Old Elm Road, the Graham Quartet feels a mystery brewing. When a string of strange happenings continues to point in the same direction, Elsa, Matt, Selena, and Tim are determined to get to the bottom of things. But are all of these oddities really connected? Or is the Quartet so eager for another mystery that they're making up trouble out of nothing? When their old friend Guy Fox steps in to investigate, things take a startling turn. Will the four siblings have the right clues to piece everything together before the crooks get away?

Can anything save her from the trial ahead?

Hannah Reeve knows her cousin’s coming engagement ought to be cause for joy, but Beatrice’s cruel thrusts and the secrets of her own traitorous heart threaten to ruin more than just her composure. Will Hannah find a way to keep her serenity while the kindest man she knows offers his hand to her greatest tormenter? Or does this dreaded evening have something else in store?

"Dearest Paul...do tell me what I should do!"

With her adored older brother away in the West, Lucy is hovering on the brink of despair. How can she ever stay cheerful and good without Paul's help and guidance?

Paul knows the answer to his sister's troubles, but convincing her is another matter. When their letters prove too slow to prevent calamity, can he lead her to his own source of help?

"Oh, what change a day can make!"

Lucy's life has never looked brighter than since her recent engagement, and she pours out her raptures as usual in letters to her older brother. But clouds are gathering beyond her vision, and her commitment is soon to be tested in ways she never expected.

When the storm unleashes its fury, can Paul help her find her way? Or will her chance for happiness be lost forever?

Will hate and fear drown the song of Christmas love?

Amelia is eagerly anticipating her first Christmas in the west, but she soon finds that her brother-in-law's worry and her sister's exhaustion reach far deeper than the cares of a ranch and a family. A rash of fires and cattle thefts is plaguing the area, and the three young orphans they've sheltered are under suspicion from their prejudiced neighbors.

As hostilities mount, Amelia seizes every opportunity to help and encourage, but how much can one girl do? Will Reverend Brown win the community over to the true spirit of love? And will help arrive before everything they hold dear is destroyed?

Has she found the perfect gift?

Magdalen Morris is more than content with her quiet life in the small town of Homewood. But when a rich stranger makes her the offer of a lifetime, Magda can’t turn down the chance to make a real difference for her sister’s family. Will she have the courage to face Christmas miles from home in a big city? Or is this sacrifice truly what her family wants most?

“Could you not teach them what you do know?”

Separated from her parents and sent to live with unknown relatives for the summer, Belle Standish clings hard to the promises found in her dear Bible and her beloved hymns. As she grows to love her newly discovered family, she finds much work to be done for her Lord in this neglected field.

But when danger threatens those she loves, Belle's faith and courage are tested in ways she never imagined. Will God's promises hold true even in the midst of the storm? And what can she possibly accomplish with just her one little light?

Does hope have a price tag?

Jolie and Elliana have a problem. Or at least, Mama and Stephen do, and that’s just as bad. The little girls don’t quite understand why talking about “more gages” makes Mama so sad and Stephen so worried, but they’re determined to find a way to help. Can a handful of change and a heart full of hope somehow spark the miracle they need?

How'd I ever be the great man Ma wanted if I didn't take time for my lessons?

Everyone knows that Dan is destined for greatness. But when his teacher insists that he put schoolwork above everything else, his heart is torn. Is personal ambition worth the cost to his family? Or does a better lesson await beyond the pages of his schoolbooks?

How had she gotten herself into this mess? 

Eagerly anticipating her first Junior Ranger camping trip, Sharon doesn't want to waste time for anything—even her uncle's Bible reading. But when a mission of mercy strands her alone in the woods, her plans for the night are ruined. Will the other Junior Rangers find her before something terrible happens? And can Sharon remember God's promises when there's nothing left to cling to?

No one should be forgotten at Christmas... 

The approaching holiday season brings no joy for Elenora Gregory. Isolated and forgotten, she ekes out a meager existence for herself and her mother, but with no money for even ordinary comforts, a Christmas celebration is far beyond her reach. How can others have so much when her life is so empty?

Amid the whirl of holiday preparations, Edwin Langton can't forget the face of the girl in the red cloak. Enlisting the help of his siblings, he quickly discovers the truth of her need. Can they find a way to make Christmas brighter for the lonely little family?

As the Langtons prepare their surprises, Elenora resigns herself to another cold, lonely holiday. But will their presents be the greatest gift she receives on Christmas Day?

Alone and unloved—did anyone care? 

All she wants for Christmas is to be free of the cold and snow. But when a wrong turn sends her on an unexpected detour, Mercy finds the kindness of strangers warming her in body and soul. Could the Providence her parents believed in truly have provided this for her?

Something has to change—but what?

To Lawrence and Lenexa Johnson, an invitation to a new summer camp is like a breath of fresh air. What could be better than two weeks of living like real kids—away from stuck-up schoolmates, rigid housekeepers, and absent parents? There’s only one problem: they’ll have hard work getting permission for any camp with “Christian” in its name.

As the twins map out their plan of attack, they have no idea of the ripples that this one small choice will cause. Before they know it, they're presented with more decisions than they’ve ever had to make in their lives—some big, some small, and some with eternal significance. Can Lawrence and Lenexa prove that they’re old enough to make their own choices? And what will those choices be?

Why on earth had he ended up here?

When Tommy awakes in a soft bed, he knows two things for sure: this isn't his home, and Diego is nowhere in sight. But why was he found on this side of town? What could have caused his injuries? And how can he possibly find the answers when he's not even allowed out of bed?

The kind doctor promises to look into things and urges him not to worry, but will Tommy's secret prove more than either of them bargained for?

Could an old, familiar hymn light the way to home and rest?

Arthur Fowler has finally found the answers to the questions that drove him west twelve years ago, but new obstacles lie in his path. Will his wounded leg hold for the long journey home? Will his family still be there when he reaches it? And what will they say to the return of their long-lost prodigal? As he nears the end of his quest, Arthur finds hope in his mother's favorite hymn and the promises it contains.

Who holds the key to Woodbreak's hidden past?

When Ryan and Robin decide to search out the history of their family's ranch, their quest leads them to an old box filled with curious artifacts. Who was the mysterious Anna? What brought her west? And what connection does she have to the strange name carved into the log?

A peek into Anna's diary reveals a few answers but even more questions. Is there anyone who can show them the truth of Woodbreak?

Something sinister is afoot, but where?

The arrival of a gun-toting stranger in a little Western town causes quite a stir. Who is this man? What is he after? And most importantly, which side of the law is he on?

Jim Wood likes the look of the area, but before he can think of settling down, he'll have to finish the business that brought him here. With doubt and suspicion on every side, can he find the answers he needs? Or will evil win out before the truth is revealed?

Could God choose to use even her weakness?

Miss Anna Albert is worried. In the months since their son's disappearance, Mrs. Kenagy has grown steadily sadder, while her husband seems to have turned his back on God. But what really happened to Ben? Is there any way to know for sure? And how could a girl with no voice ever help find the answer?

When she confides her troubles to Jim Wood, he offers his assistance in solving the puzzle, but to Anna's surprise, he seems to truly want her help. Is it possible God can use her despite her silence? And might He have plans for her beyond her greatest dreams?

Is something wrong at the Halstead ranch?

Lake Wood can't shake the feeling that trouble is in the wind for his pretty neighbor, Jane Halstead. First her uncle didn't show when he promised, and now suspicious strangers are lurking about her ranch. But is the trouble purely in his own imagination? Or is there real cause for concern?

When odd happenings, jarring revelations, and convenient accidents pile up, Lake enlists the help of his family and friends to get to the bottom of things. But can they find the truth in time to foil the plot? And what more can Lake do to protect the girl he loves?

Heroes? In these bodies? You've got to be kidding!

All Brady Owen wants from this highly experimental research program is a chance at normalcy, away from the crushing migraines that dominate his life. So when he wakes in the lab with the ability to hear distant sounds, see through walls, and sense microscopic particles with his fingers, his fractured world tips on its axis.

Brady's temporary enhancements land him among a ragtag band of young chronic illness warriors for whom the treatments have had similar effects. But how can a guy be a hero when some days he can't even lift his head from the pillow? And why would God give him a gift that's not even his to control?

Nothing like jumping in at the deep end...

Just weeks after his first encounter with the treatment's...unusual side-effects, it's Brady's turn under the needle again. Rachelle seems confident he can use his new powers for good, but Brady isn't so sure. How do you stop crime with super senses anyway, especially when the world doesn't know your secret?

With the team at his back, Brady makes his first foray onto the streets, but nothing is as easy as it seems. Oh, and did he mention it didn't seem that easy in the first place? Will Brady find a reason to stick with the project, or is this all a dead end?

Is this city big enough for the both of them?

Brady may have finally embraced his new superhero status, but he never asked to be paired up with Dash on a mission day. Sure, the guy’s got some kind of heart under his rough exterior, but he’s not a big fan of sharing, and Brady can’t exactly choose when to schedule his migraines. Oh, and have you ever tried to keep out of the way of a speedster who doesn’t want you around?

Two are supposed to be stronger than one, but Brady can only hope they’ll get through the day without ripping the team apart. Is there something more behind Dash’s rotten attitude? And can any good come from being forced to work together?

Accidents have a way of shaking things loose...

Brady wasn't supposed to worry about Rachelle on her mission days; after all, she's better equipped than anyone to take care of herself on the street. But when a reckless driver plows into Car's sedan, the mechanical damage doesn't even rank on their list of worries.

With Car in critical condition and Rachelle struggling to evade discovery, the rest of the team scrambles for a way to help as Grace's past trauma resurfaces like a flood. But how can Brady comfort her when the story proves far more complex than he knew? And how do you find the courage to hold on when your whole world crashes in?

Of all the times for a real emergency!

As rumors swirl of a young deaf boy lost in a condemned building, the team is dismayed to find that none of them are sick enough to take on the job. Rachelle counsels patience, but that's easier said than done with a child's life on the line and tantalizing superpowers sitting just out of reach.

When Harper defies orders and triggers a flare on purpose, the fallout spreads to Brady as well. But why should a mission they chose for themselves be any worse than normal? And when things inevitably slip sideways, will the powers they trusted be enough to get everyone safely home?

How could the doctor go this far?

As the newest member of the team, Brady shouldn’t be surprised that he’s not the last. But nothing prepared him to face a panicked teen with the lung capacity to bring the building down around their ears.

Marcus Robinson is sweet, friendly, likeable—and way too young to bring into the group without letting his family in on the secret. Will his unique strengths be enough to earn him a place in the den? Or will the risks to the rest of the team prove insurmountable? 

A sinister threat. A shocking betrayal. A single rose.

Jan has poured her grief over her brother's death into finishing his work—crippling the terrible system they'd unknowingly helped to build. But when a strange gift beckons her to seek out Kevin's betrayer, will she find the answers she needs? Or will hate and anger shatter everything she holds dear?

“The light shines in the darkness...”

As a child growing up on her grandparents’ ranch, Brinlee never imagined running it by herself, much less converting it into a refuge for innocent children fleeing a brutal war. And she never would have believed how much one toddler’s sunny little presence could brighten her lonely road. With all the suffering and pain surrounding them, will Joy’s influence reach farther than she knows? 

What secrets lie hidden among the stars?

Ten-year-old Riley Dixon is eagerly anticipating his first spaceflight, even if his dad isn't keen on adventure. But all his exciting dreams for the future are knocked off course when a frightening medical emergency puts their trip on pause.

As he adjusts to life on the busy Etzio spaceport, Riley begins to suspect that there's more to his dad's choices than he knows. But when a surprising encounter brings to light a shocking past, can Riley choose the right course for his future? Or will secrets and silence ruin everything that matters most?

What will it take to guard her dearest treasure?

Blenwyn Osheen is no stranger to hard work and trouble, but the children's fascination with their father's anxious forebodings is a problem she doesn't know how to solve. And so is the kind surgeon who insists on treating her like an equal instead of a servant.

When a particularly disastrous day rocks their world, is there anything Blenwyn can do to protect the family she loves as her own? Can she somehow stop the children's headlong rush into danger? And when a hand is reached out to help her, will she choose to trust her head or her heart?

What will it take to move beyond her mission?

Jaelyn Rolfe has grown up with a singular purpose: to end the reign of a brutal dictator and rid the world of her father's terrible legacy. But victory comes with a price, and she soon finds her role in the plot spawning consequences no one anticipated.

Caught unexpectedly between her training and her heart, will Jaelyn find the strength to chart a new course? Can a girl so skilled at deception ever truly earn trust? And when a sudden blow threatens her hard-won triumph, will everything she's fought for be lost forever?

What will it take to rid the world of a tyrant?

Inger Stein is no stranger to heartbreak and struggle, but when a trio of battered resistance fighters seek refuge at her door, her world is destined to change again forever. Can she convince her town that the sacrifice they ask is worth the hope they offer? Or will resentment and suspicion snuff out the country's chance for freedom?

A short story, previously published as part of Hope

with Scraps and Sketches, a collection of short short stories tracing the progress of the resistance through the eyes of each of the Quiet Valor heroines

Abandoned and alone—or are they?

After Marick's ship is wrecked on a barren planet, companionship is the least of his worries. But when he rescues a strange girl from a watery death, their lives will change in ways neither could have predicted. As unseen dangers threaten, the two must band together for survival, and in the process, uncover the secrets hidden in the forbidden world—and each other.

Is their common love strong enough to defy the future?

Anna Ellington is at the end of her rope. Drowning in debt from her mother’s final illness and with HALEY, the world’s latest artificial intelligence, obliterating her job prospects, an unusual want ad may be her only salvation—if the stranger on the other end truly wants her beloved antique typewriter. To her surprise, Lev Morozov is nothing like she expected, and he offers her more than she could have dreamed. But when a hidden truth comes to light and the specter of HALEY once more raises its head, can their growing trust weather the storm?

Will hidden wounds mar the meaning of the day?

Anna is relishing her carefree vacation in a small southern town, miles away from the pervading influence of HALEY. So much so that when the old-fashioned Independence Day festival beckons, she's willing to sacrifice her own self-consciousness to join in Lev's wholehearted recognition of all the holiday stands for. But neither has imagined just how the noisy customs will strike a heart still wounded from the tragedies of the past. Can they find the true significance of the Fourth beneath the roar of its celebration?

How far would you go to help an enemy?

Anna and Lev are enjoying a rustic fall hike when a rainstorm forces them into proximity with a testy teenager. When River’s disdain for technology in general and HALEY in particular provokes unexpected violence, Anna is more than ready to banish the troublesome acquaintance from her thoughts. But when the teen’s impetuous temper leaves her gravely injured, neither Anna nor Lev can abandon her to her fate. What will they be willing to risk to rescue the girl who’s wronged them?

What difference can one little tree make?

Old Marley is determined to make a proper celebration for young Sonny, Christmas tree and all, but new problems seem to rise at every turn. When the boy takes matters into his own hands, will their plans end in disaster? Or will the elusive tree finally open the door to a true Christmas blessing?

Savor the warmth of the season with this special collection of twelve short stories from Rebekah A. Morris's Christmas Collection!

The holidays can bring unexpected stress--a ruined school play, a Christmas Eve break-in, or a crowd of stranded motorists. But they're also packed with opportunities for family togetherness--for healing old wounds, rediscovering simple pleasures, and reviving old traditions. They're full of chances to show love to strangers--a college friend sharing a family celebration, a lonely child looking for shelter from the cold, or an immigrant family bravely trying to make a home. And above all, they're a time of miracles--an unplanned meeting in a blizzard that mends a broken family, an open door that ushers in an unexpected reunion, and a set of unforeseen delays that result in a perfectly-timed rescue.

Whether your holiday ideal involves snowballs and sledding, shows and singing, or sacrifice and sharing, you're sure to find it here, along with a large serving of the true meaning of Christmas!

Peace on earth, good will to men...

Samuel Edmunton isn’t expecting a quiet Christmas Eve with his family to explode into the threat of a range war. But when three beleaguered sheep ranchers seek shelter in his barn, what’s a cattleman to do? Is there a way to restore the peace on earth that his neighbors seem bent on extinguishing?

What kind of doors can a dropped key open?

The Stamper family is shocked when a half-frozen stranger stumbles into their house just before the holidays, but neither Ron nor Lizzie can understand Frank’s harsh reaction. Does his anger truly stem from the sick boy upstairs, or does it have some deeper root? And can anything redeem this Christmas?

Memories. Gifts. And so much more.

When her beloved grandmother suffers a heart attack, Olivia pours her love, fear, and grief into a new quilting project, rekindling the passion they once shared. But only through a very special Christmas does she come to see the true significance of her gifts . . . and the legacy they carry.

What difference could a little snow make? 

The Tilman family is all settled in for a cozy Christmas at home, with no fears for the threatening snow. But when the roads become impassable and stranded travelers flock to their door, cozy quickly becomes crazy! When the storm stretches longer than anticipated, can a crowd of strangers come together to make a meaningful Christmas?

Twenty-five short reads inspired by themes from the Christmas story

Celebrate the true spirit of the season with this collection of five-minute holiday stories. Perfect to pair with your morning coffee or binge-read while curled up with a favorite blanket on a snowy afternoon!

From a stately mansion to a rough barn, from a cheerful fireside to a lonely mountain road, from a chaotic church pageant to the grim aftermath of war, no heart is without its burden. But no trouble is too deep to be touched by the light of love and the warmth of Christmas.

Will hate and fear drown the song of Christmas love?

Amelia is eagerly anticipating her first Christmas in the west, but she soon finds that her brother-in-law's worry and her sister's exhaustion reach far deeper than the cares of a ranch and a family. A rash of fires and cattle thefts is plaguing the area, and the three young orphans they've sheltered are under suspicion from their prejudiced neighbors.

As hostilities mount, Amelia seizes every opportunity to help and encourage, but how much can one girl do? Will Reverend Brown win the community over to the true spirit of love? And will help arrive before everything they hold dear is destroyed?

Has she found the perfect gift?

Magdalen Morris is more than content with her quiet life in the small town of Homewood. But when a rich stranger makes her the offer of a lifetime, Magda can’t turn down the chance to make a real difference for her sister’s family. Will she have the courage to face Christmas miles from home in a big city? Or is this sacrifice truly what her family wants most?

Come home to a small-town Christmas through the ages...

The close-knit community of Homewood, Minnesota might not even be a dot on most maps. But from its earliest settlement to the present day, a warm Christmas welcome and a shining Moravian star have been its hallmarks of the holiday.

Step into the bustle of preparations as a young orphan travels an unexpected path to the Christmas he’s longed for and a boisterous flock of cousins learns the eternal secrets of the Christmas fruit bowl. Follow a wintery road with a widowed mother in the shadow of war and a generous aunt trying her best for her family as they search for a place where they truly belong. Slip into the fire glow next to a lonely stranger with a terrible secret and a hometown girl trying to escape past hurts, and watch Christmas light and love warm even the coldest places.

With so many ways to celebrate the season, one reason undergirds them all—and the Christmas stars of Homewood never tire of telling His story!

What can I give him, poor as I am...

Brianna wants nothing more than to give Jesus a gift for Christmas, but what does a wheelchair-bound girl have to offer when she's already given her heart? Her little recorder provides a sudden inspiration, but surely cheering up one passerby isn't much of a gift.

But the ripples of her song stretch farther than she knows, reaching neighbors, friends, and strangers alike. How many lives will be touched by the echo of a simple Christmas tune?

No one should be forgotten at Christmas... 

The approaching holiday season brings no joy for Elenora Gregory. Isolated and forgotten, she ekes out a meager existence for herself and her mother, but with no money for even ordinary comforts, a Christmas celebration is far beyond her reach. How can others have so much when her life is so empty?

Amid the whirl of holiday preparations, Edwin Langton can't forget the face of the girl in the red cloak. Enlisting the help of his siblings, he quickly discovers the truth of her need. Can they find a way to make Christmas brighter for the lonely little family?

As the Langtons prepare their surprises, Elenora resigns herself to another cold, lonely holiday. But will their presents be the greatest gift she receives on Christmas Day?

These weren't the Christmas surprises they expected... 

Christmas chaos at the Melson house usually involves wrapping paper and toys, not a broken window and a bare space under the tree. After a morning of questioning officers and chattering children, Amanda resigns herself to a very un-Christmasy day. But can the heroes on the Pineville police force find a way to save the family's Christmas?

Alone and unloved—did anyone care? 

All she wants for Christmas is to be free of the cold and snow. But when a wrong turn sends her on an unexpected detour, Mercy finds the kindness of strangers warming her in body and soul. Could the Providence her parents believed in truly have provided this for her?

Anything's better than spending Christmas alone...isn't it?

Sidney has the perfect Christmas plan for herself and her brother, involving motorcycles, a road trip, and a dear pair of relatives waiting at the end. Lance isn't so sure it's the wisest idea—cold and snow aside, his sister has to face up to their painful past at some point. But when an unexpected complication forces old scars to the surface, will Sidney's plan end up ruining or saving their Christmas?

What will it take to save Miss Christmas?

Christine only wanted a quiet place to spend the holiday she's grown to detest. She certainly didn't expect to find her face plastered on every storefront–or the crowd of eager young children who seem to think her synonymous with the season itself. But will their holiday joy be enough to revive her own? Or is their beloved Miss Christmas gone forever?

Hoping. Planning. Waiting.

Everything in her life is wrapped up in the thought of this new sister, coming from so far away. Will the day ever arrive? And if it does, will it be everything they dreamed? In this short poetic narrative, follow along on a young girl's journey as she discovers the true meaning of love, family, and sisterhood.

True excellence comes with a price...

Eva has never doubted her coach's ability, but a startling conversation leaves her mind racing with questions. Are the girls' suspicions true? Why won't Alexei let her compete? And how can she learn to be her best without a better coach?

When her preoccupation leads her into danger, Alexei steps in, and Eva is forced to make a choice. Will she follow a fleeting dream or embrace the lessons her coach can teach?

What difference can one little tree make?

Old Marley is determined to make a proper celebration for young Sonny, Christmas tree and all, but new problems seem to rise at every turn. When the boy takes matters into his own hands, will their plans end in disaster? Or will the elusive tree finally open the door to a true Christmas blessing?

What's left when the world falls apart?

The only concern on Alli's mind is planning her upcoming trip with her sister—until a bolt from a clear sky turns the world upside down. But as shock and grief close in, Alli comes face to face with others just as devastated by the events as she is, and with even more reason to fear. Can she find a way to share hope with those who need it most?

What will she find beyond the border?

When Jessica signs up for a mission trip to work with orphans in China, she knows the experience will stretch her beyond the limits of anything she's experienced before. But she has no idea of the lasting impact the trip will leave for more than just herself. How many lives will be touched when one girl dares to reach beyond comfort?

Three boys. One choice. No turning back.

Peyton is a rising star in the church who is well on the way to reaching his biggest dreams. Levi is a pastor's son struggling to live up to his faith under pressure from all sides. DaVonte is a kid from the wrong side of town who would be content if he and his friends were just left alone.

When an act of violence presents a sudden decision, each boy's answer will shake the community to its core and shape its future forever. Love and truth face off against fear and pride in this modern extension of one of Jesus' best-known parables.

Benny's coming hadn't changed anything—or had it?

With a new foster kid joining Alex Carson's family, everyone is prepared for changes. So when Benny slips into the tight-knit group with barely a ripple, the family is at once surprised and delighted.

But beneath the surface, deeper waters are stirred as Alex finds herself at odds with Jess over his jokes on the unsuspecting and gullible Benny. Will Jess's teasing and her own insecurities separate Alex from her brother? Or can a surprising source teach them a needed lesson in love?

Could God bring peace from such a winding path?

Austin Sparks is doing his best to hold his family together in the wake of his mom's death, but the world continues to spin out of his control. When his dad announces that the family is moving to their grandparents' ranch in South Dakota, it's anyone's guess whether the change will bring healing or just more heartache.

Back on the ranch, Austin finds hope in the familiar surroundings and help in his loving clan of relatives. But can his dad somehow overcome his grief? Will his siblings ever feel at home? And can Austin trust God to guide them all even when the path seems darkest?

Savor the warmth of the season with this special collection of twelve short stories from Rebekah A. Morris's Christmas Collection!

The holidays can bring unexpected stress--a ruined school play, a Christmas Eve break-in, or a crowd of stranded motorists. But they're also packed with opportunities for family togetherness--for healing old wounds, rediscovering simple pleasures, and reviving old traditions. They're full of chances to show love to strangers--a college friend sharing a family celebration, a lonely child looking for shelter from the cold, or an immigrant family bravely trying to make a home. And above all, they're a time of miracles--an unplanned meeting in a blizzard that mends a broken family, an open door that ushers in an unexpected reunion, and a set of unforeseen delays that result in a perfectly-timed rescue.

Whether your holiday ideal involves snowballs and sledding, shows and singing, or sacrifice and sharing, you're sure to find it here, along with a large serving of the true meaning of Christmas!

Peace on earth, good will to men...

Samuel Edmunton isn’t expecting a quiet Christmas Eve with his family to explode into the threat of a range war. But when three beleaguered sheep ranchers seek shelter in his barn, what’s a cattleman to do? Is there a way to restore the peace on earth that his neighbors seem bent on extinguishing?

What kind of doors can a dropped key open?

The Stamper family is shocked when a half-frozen stranger stumbles into their house just before the holidays, but neither Ron nor Lizzie can understand Frank’s harsh reaction. Does his anger truly stem from the sick boy upstairs, or does it have some deeper root? And can anything redeem this Christmas?

Memories. Gifts. And so much more.

When her beloved grandmother suffers a heart attack, Olivia pours her love, fear, and grief into a new quilting project, rekindling the passion they once shared. But only through a very special Christmas does she come to see the true significance of her gifts . . . and the legacy they carry.

Heroes? In these bodies? You've got to be kidding!

All Brady Owen wants from this highly experimental research program is a chance at normalcy, away from the crushing migraines that dominate his life. So when he wakes in the lab with the ability to hear distant sounds, see through walls, and sense microscopic particles with his fingers, his fractured world tips on its axis.

Brady's temporary enhancements land him among a ragtag band of young chronic illness warriors for whom the treatments have had similar effects. But how can a guy be a hero when some days he can't even lift his head from the pillow? And why would God give him a gift that's not even his to control?

Nothing like jumping in at the deep end...

Just weeks after his first encounter with the treatment's...unusual side-effects, it's Brady's turn under the needle again. Rachelle seems confident he can use his new powers for good, but Brady isn't so sure. How do you stop crime with super senses anyway, especially when the world doesn't know your secret?

With the team at his back, Brady makes his first foray onto the streets, but nothing is as easy as it seems. Oh, and did he mention it didn't seem that easy in the first place? Will Brady find a reason to stick with the project, or is this all a dead end?

Is this city big enough for the both of them?

Brady may have finally embraced his new superhero status, but he never asked to be paired up with Dash on a mission day. Sure, the guy’s got some kind of heart under his rough exterior, but he’s not a big fan of sharing, and Brady can’t exactly choose when to schedule his migraines. Oh, and have you ever tried to keep out of the way of a speedster who doesn’t want you around?

Two are supposed to be stronger than one, but Brady can only hope they’ll get through the day without ripping the team apart. Is there something more behind Dash’s rotten attitude? And can any good come from being forced to work together?

Accidents have a way of shaking things loose...

Brady wasn't supposed to worry about Rachelle on her mission days; after all, she's better equipped than anyone to take care of herself on the street. But when a reckless driver plows into Car's sedan, the mechanical damage doesn't even rank on their list of worries.

With Car in critical condition and Rachelle struggling to evade discovery, the rest of the team scrambles for a way to help as Grace's past trauma resurfaces like a flood. But how can Brady comfort her when the story proves far more complex than he knew? And how do you find the courage to hold on when your whole world crashes in?

Of all the times for a real emergency!

As rumors swirl of a young deaf boy lost in a condemned building, the team is dismayed to find that none of them are sick enough to take on the job. Rachelle counsels patience, but that's easier said than done with a child's life on the line and tantalizing superpowers sitting just out of reach.

When Harper defies orders and triggers a flare on purpose, the fallout spreads to Brady as well. But why should a mission they chose for themselves be any worse than normal? And when things inevitably slip sideways, will the powers they trusted be enough to get everyone safely home?

How could the doctor go this far?

As the newest member of the team, Brady shouldn’t be surprised that he’s not the last. But nothing prepared him to face a panicked teen with the lung capacity to bring the building down around their ears.

Marcus Robinson is sweet, friendly, likeable—and way too young to bring into the group without letting his family in on the secret. Will his unique strengths be enough to earn him a place in the den? Or will the risks to the rest of the team prove insurmountable? 

A sinister threat. A shocking betrayal. A single rose.

Jan has poured her grief over her brother's death into finishing his work—crippling the terrible system they'd unknowingly helped to build. But when a strange gift beckons her to seek out Kevin's betrayer, will she find the answers she needs? Or will hate and anger shatter everything she holds dear?

What difference could a little snow make? 

The Tilman family is all settled in for a cozy Christmas at home, with no fears for the threatening snow. But when the roads become impassable and stranded travelers flock to their door, cozy quickly becomes crazy! When the storm stretches longer than anticipated, can a crowd of strangers come together to make a meaningful Christmas?

Don't forget the fireflies...

Serenity Darling has it all—a great job, a good salary, clients clamoring for her work. So why is her happiness and contentment steadily slipping away?

As the frantic pace threatens to consume her life, will Serenity see the danger before it's too late? And could a childhood scene hold the answers she needs?

Might all her years of faithful service finally be rewarded?

The arrival of the winter robins is always a high point in Miss Kate Hamilton’s life. With her sister’s children grown and no word from her brother’s family in the east, the little feathered visitors are her one remaining comfort. But as she ponders her solitary existence and wonders if her purpose is finished, an unexpected meeting rocks her quiet world. Will Miss Kate finally receive a glimpse of how God’s purpose has worked through everything?

Who would care for three friendless orphans?

Sissy is sure it can’t be as easy to find a family as Aunt Jane made it sound when she dropped them by the side of the road. But she can't bear to break Clint’s childish faith or frighten little Nattie. Does God truly have a place for them?

The last thing Clint Younger expected to pick up on a trip to town was a family of orphans, but he can’t bear to turn them away, especially the eager little boy who shares his name and calls him Daddy. Can he solve the mystery of where they came from? And what about the other children he’s been searching for so long?

Twenty-five short reads inspired by themes from the Christmas story

Celebrate the true spirit of the season with this collection of five-minute holiday stories. Perfect to pair with your morning coffee or binge-read while curled up with a favorite blanket on a snowy afternoon!

From a stately mansion to a rough barn, from a cheerful fireside to a lonely mountain road, from a chaotic church pageant to the grim aftermath of war, no heart is without its burden. But no trouble is too deep to be touched by the light of love and the warmth of Christmas.

Mystery shimmers in the summer air...

Mr. and Mrs. Cutlass are anticipating a hot, dull summer on the ranch, but when their niece and nephew arrive from the city with a young guest, all fear of dullness evaporates. The children are charmed with ranch life and intrigued by the mysterious recurring puddle under the pump and some strange findings in the hayloft. Will they discover a friend or an enemy at the end of the trail?

Some words don't need to be said...

When little Katie becomes distraught at the idea of parting from her big brother, Ethan makes her a special promise. But as new seasons and challenges arise, will their pact be strong enough to quiet Katie's fears? How can she truly be sure they'll never have to say goodbye?

A suspicious bill, a coded plea, and the Graham Quartet are ready for action!

Out along the lonely stretches of Old Elm Road, the Graham Quartet feels a mystery brewing. When a string of strange happenings continues to point in the same direction, Elsa, Matt, Selena, and Tim are determined to get to the bottom of things. But are all of these oddities really connected? Or is the Quartet so eager for another mystery that they're making up trouble out of nothing? When their old friend Guy Fox steps in to investigate, things take a startling turn. Will the four siblings have the right clues to piece everything together before the crooks get away?

Would one mistake leave two hearts broken forever?

When a young neighbor volunteers to help with her chores, Amber little expects the sweet friendship that blossoms between them. Pedro is always cheerful, thoughtful, and brimming with life--until a single accident threatens to ruin everything. Can Amber overcome her own hurt and show him the true significance of her grandfather's cherished mug?

What was she to do with this restlessness? 

Miss Lacey's mood is as gray as the dripping autumn sky, but she won't let herself dwell on the reason. When an unexpected visitor throws the quiet house into a flutter, Miss Lacey is more than glad to distract herself from her churning thoughts. But when her guest's arrival fails to settle the nagging question in her heart, will she finally face the truth she's evaded for years?

Can anything save her from the trial ahead?

Hannah Reeve knows her cousin’s coming engagement ought to be cause for joy, but Beatrice’s cruel thrusts and the secrets of her own traitorous heart threaten to ruin more than just her composure. Will Hannah find a way to keep her serenity while the kindest man she knows offers his hand to her greatest tormenter? Or does this dreaded evening have something else in store?

"Dearest Paul...do tell me what I should do!"

With her adored older brother away in the West, Lucy is hovering on the brink of despair. How can she ever stay cheerful and good without Paul's help and guidance?

Paul knows the answer to his sister's troubles, but convincing her is another matter. When their letters prove too slow to prevent calamity, can he lead her to his own source of help?

"Oh, what change a day can make!"

Lucy's life has never looked brighter than since her recent engagement, and she pours out her raptures as usual in letters to her older brother. But clouds are gathering beyond her vision, and her commitment is soon to be tested in ways she never expected.

When the storm unleashes its fury, can Paul help her find her way? Or will her chance for happiness be lost forever?

What makes a real hero?

Henry Rader isn’t looking to be a hero when he and his dog head out to earn some money for their struggling family. And when little acts of kindness pop up along their path, he’s just glad to have Indie along to help. But when the town can’t stop buzzing about the mysterious pair, will those small offerings open the door to a miracle Henry never imagined? 

Will hate and fear drown the song of Christmas love?

Amelia is eagerly anticipating her first Christmas in the west, but she soon finds that her brother-in-law's worry and her sister's exhaustion reach far deeper than the cares of a ranch and a family. A rash of fires and cattle thefts is plaguing the area, and the three young orphans they've sheltered are under suspicion from their prejudiced neighbors.

As hostilities mount, Amelia seizes every opportunity to help and encourage, but how much can one girl do? Will Reverend Brown win the community over to the true spirit of love? And will help arrive before everything they hold dear is destroyed?

Has she found the perfect gift?

Magdalen Morris is more than content with her quiet life in the small town of Homewood. But when a rich stranger makes her the offer of a lifetime, Magda can’t turn down the chance to make a real difference for her sister’s family. Will she have the courage to face Christmas miles from home in a big city? Or is this sacrifice truly what her family wants most?

Come home to a small-town Christmas through the ages...

The close-knit community of Homewood, Minnesota might not even be a dot on most maps. But from its earliest settlement to the present day, a warm Christmas welcome and a shining Moravian star have been its hallmarks of the holiday.

Step into the bustle of preparations as a young orphan travels an unexpected path to the Christmas he’s longed for and a boisterous flock of cousins learns the eternal secrets of the Christmas fruit bowl. Follow a wintery road with a widowed mother in the shadow of war and a generous aunt trying her best for her family as they search for a place where they truly belong. Slip into the fire glow next to a lonely stranger with a terrible secret and a hometown girl trying to escape past hurts, and watch Christmas light and love warm even the coldest places.

With so many ways to celebrate the season, one reason undergirds them all—and the Christmas stars of Homewood never tire of telling His story!

“Could you not teach them what you do know?”

Separated from her parents and sent to live with unknown relatives for the summer, Belle Standish clings hard to the promises found in her dear Bible and her beloved hymns. As she grows to love her newly discovered family, she finds much work to be done for her Lord in this neglected field.

But when danger threatens those she loves, Belle's faith and courage are tested in ways she never imagined. Will God's promises hold true even in the midst of the storm? And what can she possibly accomplish with just her one little light?

“The light shines in the darkness...”

As a child growing up on her grandparents’ ranch, Brinlee never imagined running it by herself, much less converting it into a refuge for innocent children fleeing a brutal war. And she never would have believed how much one toddler’s sunny little presence could brighten her lonely road. With all the suffering and pain surrounding them, will Joy’s influence reach farther than she knows? 

A cozy Christian contemporary dystopian short story 

What's so special about an ordinary girl?

Everything in Allissa's life is average and invisible—except her Daddy. Handsome, witty, brave, and strong, he's everything she is not. But of all the people in the world, he treats her like she's truly special.

When a routine day takes a startling turn, Allissa learns that her Daddy's love goes far deeper than she ever imagined. Why would he give up so much for her? Does she truly have worth beyond what she sees? And could there be more love waiting for her, even if she's just Allissa?

Does hope have a price tag?

Jolie and Elliana have a problem. Or at least, Mama and Stephen do, and that’s just as bad. The little girls don’t quite understand why talking about “more gages” makes Mama so sad and Stephen so worried, but they’re determined to find a way to help. Can a handful of change and a heart full of hope somehow spark the miracle they need?

How'd I ever be the great man Ma wanted if I didn't take time for my lessons?

Everyone knows that Dan is destined for greatness. But when his teacher insists that he put schoolwork above everything else, his heart is torn. Is personal ambition worth the cost to his family? Or does a better lesson await beyond the pages of his schoolbooks?

Can Liberty capture the true spark of the Fourth?

With their roots sunk deep in the Air Force and a patriotic lake community, the Goldman family practically bleeds red, white, and blue. So when their cousin Alec confesses a shocking degree of ignorance about the Fourth of July, the girls decide to give him a crash course on the true meaning of Independence Day.

But Liberty is facing her own struggle with the coming holiday and the fact that her dad's deployment means he'll miss this year's celebration—and her birthday. Will the spirit of patriotism and sacrifice that inspired the founding fathers come to her rescue? And can she show Alec that there's more to the Fourth than fireworks and tea?

What can I give him, poor as I am...

Brianna wants nothing more than to give Jesus a gift for Christmas, but what does a wheelchair-bound girl have to offer when she's already given her heart? Her little recorder provides a sudden inspiration, but surely cheering up one passerby isn't much of a gift.

But the ripples of her song stretch farther than she knows, reaching neighbors, friends, and strangers alike. How many lives will be touched by the echo of a simple Christmas tune?

Was Danna the only one I'd been blind to all these years?

Returning home from a disastrous ski trip, Jake is quick to trace Mel's hand in the welcoming touches scattered throughout his apartment. But when a closer look reveals more than she intended to show, Jake's world is turned upside down. Can he somehow prove to Mel that he's woken up at last, or has he lost the chance forever?

How had she gotten herself into this mess? 

Eagerly anticipating her first Junior Ranger camping trip, Sharon doesn't want to waste time for anything—even her uncle's Bible reading. But when a mission of mercy strands her alone in the woods, her plans for the night are ruined. Will the other Junior Rangers find her before something terrible happens? And can Sharon remember God's promises when there's nothing left to cling to?

Could all these troubles ever lead to something good?

Vonnie Smith is trying hard to keep her spirits up, but with her family far away, her road home blocked for the forseeable future, and her Nan's small business on the brink of failure, it's easier said than done. Even reconnecting with her childhood "triplets" takes a sour turn when one of the boys breaks his leg in a freak accident—right in the middle of the shop!

With Vic and Val on her side, Vonnie is determined to prove that the little ice cream parlor can still turn a profit, but as blow after blow threatens her budding hopes, she can't help wondering where God is in all of the mess. Can she still find purpose when life seems to be crashing in around her? And can she manage to trust God and others when the answers are delayed?

Was it even possible to fix this mess?

Still reeling from the sudden wreck of her career, the last thing Julie wants to do is visit her brother in juvenile detention. But when Colton’s plight brings her face to face with her own failures, Julie’s well-ordered world is rocked to its core. Is there any way to get her life back on track? And what will she do about Colton?

In the cause of freedom, some will give their all.

When Matt Renicker joins the Army, he's determined to give his best for his country and his Lord, even if it means risking everything he loves most. But when tragedy strikes on a routine patrol, more than one heart is left shattered and lamenting.

In the wake of a terrible loss, will those left behind find the strength to go on? Or will the faith, family, and freedom Matt fought to preserve be broken beyond repair?

No one should be forgotten at Christmas... 

The approaching holiday season brings no joy for Elenora Gregory. Isolated and forgotten, she ekes out a meager existence for herself and her mother, but with no money for even ordinary comforts, a Christmas celebration is far beyond her reach. How can others have so much when her life is so empty?

Amid the whirl of holiday preparations, Edwin Langton can't forget the face of the girl in the red cloak. Enlisting the help of his siblings, he quickly discovers the truth of her need. Can they find a way to make Christmas brighter for the lonely little family?

As the Langtons prepare their surprises, Elenora resigns herself to another cold, lonely holiday. But will their presents be the greatest gift she receives on Christmas Day?

What secrets lie hidden among the stars?

Ten-year-old Riley Dixon is eagerly anticipating his first spaceflight, even if his dad isn't keen on adventure. But all his exciting dreams for the future are knocked off course when a frightening medical emergency puts their trip on pause.

As he adjusts to life on the busy Etzio spaceport, Riley begins to suspect that there's more to his dad's choices than he knows. But when a surprising encounter brings to light a shocking past, can Riley choose the right course for his future? Or will secrets and silence ruin everything that matters most?

How did my desperate strategy end up here?

All Savannah Murphy signed up for was babysitting her brood of nieces and nephews for the day. She didn't plan on all-out war breaking loose at naptime, and she certainly wasn't prepared to deliver cards to the one person on the church's shut-in list who couldn't possibly appreciate them. But can Anson forgive her awful blunder? Or will the slip have farther reaching consequences than either of them anticipate?

These weren't the Christmas surprises they expected... 

Christmas chaos at the Melson house usually involves wrapping paper and toys, not a broken window and a bare space under the tree. After a morning of questioning officers and chattering children, Amanda resigns herself to a very un-Christmasy day. But can the heroes on the Pineville police force find a way to save the family's Christmas?

Alone and unloved—did anyone care? 

All she wants for Christmas is to be free of the cold and snow. But when a wrong turn sends her on an unexpected detour, Mercy finds the kindness of strangers warming her in body and soul. Could the Providence her parents believed in truly have provided this for her?

What will it take to guard her dearest treasure?

Blenwyn Osheen is no stranger to hard work and trouble, but the children's fascination with their father's anxious forebodings is a problem she doesn't know how to solve. And so is the kind surgeon who insists on treating her like an equal instead of a servant.

When a particularly disastrous day rocks their world, is there anything Blenwyn can do to protect the family she loves as her own? Can she somehow stop the children's headlong rush into danger? And when a hand is reached out to help her, will she choose to trust her head or her heart?

What will it take to move beyond her mission?

Jaelyn Rolfe has grown up with a singular purpose: to end the reign of a brutal dictator and rid the world of her father's terrible legacy. But victory comes with a price, and she soon finds her role in the plot spawning consequences no one anticipated.

Caught unexpectedly between her training and her heart, will Jaelyn find the strength to chart a new course? Can a girl so skilled at deception ever truly earn trust? And when a sudden blow threatens her hard-won triumph, will everything she's fought for be lost forever?

What will it take to rid the world of a tyrant?

Inger Stein is no stranger to heartbreak and struggle, but when a trio of battered resistance fighters seek refuge at her door, her world is destined to change again forever. Can she convince her town that the sacrifice they ask is worth the hope they offer? Or will resentment and suspicion snuff out the country's chance for freedom?

A short story, previously published as part of Hope

with Scraps and Sketches, a collection of short short stories tracing the progress of the resistance through the eyes of each of the Quiet Valor heroines

Symphony's umbrella is her trademark - and her shield. Hiding away from a world of trouble and pain, she generally manages to avoid everyone. Until she meets Jack.

Jack's latest job search seems to have stalled, leaving him plenty of time to roam the park and wonder about the young girl with the red umbrella. It's obvious she wants to be alone, but it's just as obvious that she needs a friend.

Will Symphony's secret give new purpose to Jack's apparently aimless life? Can he bring her out of her red cocoon and into the beauty and truth that awaits her? Two lives will be forever changed by the secrets of a red umbrella.

Abandoned and alone—or are they?

After Marick's ship is wrecked on a barren planet, companionship is the least of his worries. But when he rescues a strange girl from a watery death, their lives will change in ways neither could have predicted. As unseen dangers threaten, the two must band together for survival, and in the process, uncover the secrets hidden in the forbidden world—and each other.

Anything's better than spending Christmas alone...isn't it?

Sidney has the perfect Christmas plan for herself and her brother, involving motorcycles, a road trip, and a dear pair of relatives waiting at the end. Lance isn't so sure it's the wisest idea—cold and snow aside, his sister has to face up to their painful past at some point. But when an unexpected complication forces old scars to the surface, will Sidney's plan end up ruining or saving their Christmas?

Bryson was finally home and safe—wasn't he?

All Madison wants is to be with her brother, whose recent brush with death has made him more precious to her than ever. But despite repeated assurances that he's fine, an undercurrent of tension leaves her wondering what secrets lie beneath the surface.

Alone with Bryson on her first night home, can Madison find the truth behind the shadows that lurk in her brother's eyes? Or will he succeed in shutting out the help he needs most?

What will it take to save Miss Christmas?

Christine only wanted a quiet place to spend the holiday she's grown to detest. She certainly didn't expect to find her face plastered on every storefront–or the crowd of eager young children who seem to think her synonymous with the season itself. But will their holiday joy be enough to revive her own? Or is their beloved Miss Christmas gone forever?

Ten children. Two families. One chance.

Convincing onlookers that her best friend Mikyah Byrd is truly more like a brother seems like a never-ending task to Jenna Denton. But when calamity strikes the Byrd household, her family's help becomes more crucial than she ever imagined. Will the Dentons' love and commitment be enough to keep their unusual family intact? Or will a perfect storm of troubles separate them forever?

He left his entire world in Iraq. So why did the war follow him home?

Harley Keane and his best friend Nigel were just kids when 9/11 rocked their world and changed their lives forever. When they’re finally old enough to join the Army, all their childhood dreams seem about to come true. But war wasn’t supposed to be like this. A kid’s dream isn’t supposed to become a living nightmare. Fellow soldiers aren’t supposed to bleed out in front of your eyes.

Back home, safe and unwounded, Harley feels anything but. Why would God spare him when so many others were taken? Why won’t the nightmares stop, even when he’s awake? And how long can he hide the truth that threatens everything he has left? When Harley’s invisible scars refuse to stay hidden, will he let anyone close enough to help? And how do you go on with life when “okay” isn’t okay at all?

Something has to change—but what?

To Lawrence and Lenexa Johnson, an invitation to a new summer camp is like a breath of fresh air. What could be better than two weeks of living like real kids—away from stuck-up schoolmates, rigid housekeepers, and absent parents? There’s only one problem: they’ll have hard work getting permission for any camp with “Christian” in its name.

As the twins map out their plan of attack, they have no idea of the ripples that this one small choice will cause. Before they know it, they're presented with more decisions than they’ve ever had to make in their lives—some big, some small, and some with eternal significance. Can Lawrence and Lenexa prove that they’re old enough to make their own choices? And what will those choices be?

Some scars can’t be seen. And some can’t be hidden.

Layla Trent’s life is pretty much perfect, except for the little matter of a dog of her own–and maybe a brother. So why does a random nightmare of a princess dress, a hospital, and a stranger who’s definitely not her daddy feel more like an aching wound? And can a broken, glassy-eyed puppy somehow help her release the pain she didn’t even know she was carrying? 

Corporal Andrew Reyes has proven he has what it takes to be the best–a US Army Ranger. But when a double tragedy rocks his world, his resolve is shaken to the core. What’s left for a man to live for when he’s lost everything he ever wanted to be? And is the sudden appearance of a teenage girl with a three-legged therapy dog a cruel joke or a divine appointment?

Some scars can’t be hidden. But some don’t need to be.

Why is Ella back in town if not for Christmas?

The last person Ford Merrick expects to literally run into in his high-end store is the cousin he hasn't seen in five years. Ella claims everything’s fine, but she refuses to come to the house or join the family Christmas party, retreating instead to a cheap hotel without a word of explanation.

But the Merricks don't give up easily, and an unexpected phone call changes everything. Ford is determined to help his cousin at any cost, but how can he convince her to accept it? And what will it take to open her eyes to the One whose love she’s rejected for so many years?

Is their common love strong enough to defy the future?

Anna Ellington is at the end of her rope. Drowning in debt from her mother’s final illness and with HALEY, the world’s latest artificial intelligence, obliterating her job prospects, an unusual want ad may be her only salvation—if the stranger on the other end truly wants her beloved antique typewriter. To her surprise, Lev Morozov is nothing like she expected, and he offers her more than she could have dreamed. But when a hidden truth comes to light and the specter of HALEY once more raises its head, can their growing trust weather the storm?

Will hidden wounds mar the meaning of the day?

Anna is relishing her carefree vacation in a small southern town, miles away from the pervading influence of HALEY. So much so that when the old-fashioned Independence Day festival beckons, she's willing to sacrifice her own self-consciousness to join in Lev's wholehearted recognition of all the holiday stands for. But neither has imagined just how the noisy customs will strike a heart still wounded from the tragedies of the past. Can they find the true significance of the Fourth beneath the roar of its celebration?

How far would you go to help an enemy?

Anna and Lev are enjoying a rustic fall hike when a rainstorm forces them into proximity with a testy teenager. When River’s disdain for technology in general and HALEY in particular provokes unexpected violence, Anna is more than ready to banish the troublesome acquaintance from her thoughts. But when the teen’s impetuous temper leaves her gravely injured, neither Anna nor Lev can abandon her to her fate. What will they be willing to risk to rescue the girl who’s wronged them?

How do you measure the worth of a life?

After EMT Roman Carter is called to a failed abortion, he's forced to battle both his own scars and his inability to stop the evil system that holds so many in its grasp. But could the tiny baby cupped in his hands prove a powerful ally in the fight?

When Amber Gray gets her first glimpse of the baby, she can't believe her eyes. It wasn't supposed to be like this. He wasn't supposed to be whole, or a fighter, or in such obvious pain. With help from Roman and his wife, Amber works to turn her life around and atone for her terrible error. But how could God possibly use her after such an unspeakable act?

As one little life struggles for survival, countless others hang in the balance. Just how far can a tiny miracle reach?

If only I could start the day over...

Kale Greene’s life was never perfect, but his last few days with the Taylor family have been better than most. Or they were until today. Now he’s ruined everything, and for more than just himself.

When yet another attempt to make things right falls through, will it mean a fitting end or a new beginning? Can anything fix a day that’s gone so completely wrong?

How far can a promise reach?

Since aging out of the foster care system, Stephen's life has gone from bad to worse. As he wrestles with a bleak present and a grim future, an unexpected encounter with a girl and her kitten changes everything. But will his improvised rescue end in disaster, or does God have other plans?

Why on earth had he ended up here?

When Tommy awakes in a soft bed, he knows two things for sure: this isn't his home, and Diego is nowhere in sight. But why was he found on this side of town? What could have caused his injuries? And how can he possibly find the answers when he's not even allowed out of bed?

The kind doctor promises to look into things and urges him not to worry, but will Tommy's secret prove more than either of them bargained for?

Is this all the plan God has in store?

Kylie Zeller hasn’t done much with her life since college, unless you count babysitting, house-sitting, and a job that’s easier described than named. So when an old friend fresh from medical school and Switzerland turns up while she’s waiting for her sister’s new baby, his appearance sparks both fond memories and budding regrets for everything she’s missed out on.

With her latest project drawing to a close, Kylie attempts to look to the future, but her plans seem blocked at every turn. Can she learn to trust God’s timing even when His answer is “wait”? Can Mitch help her see that His path for her life may stretch beyond what she can imagine?

What can you hide through a window?

Annalyse never expected to make a friend through a window, but her talks with the guy who lives next to the bus stop have become a favorite part of her day. But when a sudden schedule change reveals a secret he hadn't meant to share, is there anything she can do to make things right? Or is their window friendship broken beyond repair?

Could an old, familiar hymn light the way to home and rest?

Arthur Fowler has finally found the answers to the questions that drove him west twelve years ago, but new obstacles lie in his path. Will his wounded leg hold for the long journey home? Will his family still be there when he reaches it? And what will they say to the return of their long-lost prodigal? As he nears the end of his quest, Arthur finds hope in his mother's favorite hymn and the promises it contains.

Who holds the key to Woodbreak's hidden past?

When Ryan and Robin decide to search out the history of their family's ranch, their quest leads them to an old box filled with curious artifacts. Who was the mysterious Anna? What brought her west? And what connection does she have to the strange name carved into the log?

A peek into Anna's diary reveals a few answers but even more questions. Is there anyone who can show them the truth of Woodbreak?

Something sinister is afoot, but where?

The arrival of a gun-toting stranger in a little Western town causes quite a stir. Who is this man? What is he after? And most importantly, which side of the law is he on?

Jim Wood likes the look of the area, but before he can think of settling down, he'll have to finish the business that brought him here. With doubt and suspicion on every side, can he find the answers he needs? Or will evil win out before the truth is revealed?

Could God choose to use even her weakness?

Miss Anna Albert is worried. In the months since their son's disappearance, Mrs. Kenagy has grown steadily sadder, while her husband seems to have turned his back on God. But what really happened to Ben? Is there any way to know for sure? And how could a girl with no voice ever help find the answer?

When she confides her troubles to Jim Wood, he offers his assistance in solving the puzzle, but to Anna's surprise, he seems to truly want her help. Is it possible God can use her despite her silence? And might He have plans for her beyond her greatest dreams?

Is something wrong at the Halstead ranch?

Lake Wood can't shake the feeling that trouble is in the wind for his pretty neighbor, Jane Halstead. First her uncle didn't show when he promised, and now suspicious strangers are lurking about her ranch. But is the trouble purely in his own imagination? Or is there real cause for concern?

When odd happenings, jarring revelations, and convenient accidents pile up, Lake enlists the help of his family and friends to get to the bottom of things. But can they find the truth in time to foil the plot? And what more can Lake do to protect the girl he loves?