Archive for the ‘Davis Bunn’s Novels’ Category

‘The Quilt’ Free eBook Download May 22, 2013

Tuesday, May 21st, 2013

The ebook version of my book, The Quilt, will be available for a free download on May 22, 2013.

Download it from your favorite online bookseller:

Click here to view more ebook specials from Bethany House Publishers.

 

Reader Letter: ‘Hidden in Dreams’ Resonates on Multiple Levels

Tuesday, May 14th, 2013

Hannah writes: 

What I find in your books that keeps me coming back (and looking forward to the next—write faster, please!) is that beautiful quality in each of your protagonists, that burning desire to hear the Lord, obey the Lord, and please the Lord.

It speaks deeply to my soul. It takes a certain spiritual discernment to write as you do and it’s completely refreshing. Those nine years spent writing seven novels were not for naught. I’ve just finished Hidden in Dreams, and the week before, Rare Earth. I didn’t realize both were sequels, but the continuation was seamless.

Hidden in Dreams touched me on many levels but I’ll only mention a few:

  • Elena’s desire to know she was “hearing” the Lord correctly. Although the Spirit’s spoken to me many times, not always is the deepest meaning of his words clear. I could relate to Elena.
  • My son, 22, has suffered over five years now with moderate-to-severe headaches brought on by his deep-seated fear of (facing) the future. I found myself wishing I could borrow your Dr. Elena for consultation. I’ve a suspicion she could go places the other counselors have been unable to.
  • Showing the pervasive evil in our present world while acknowledging that God is in complete control and has, in fact, already claimed victory over evil.

Thank you for writing from the heart. With so many Christian publishers following the money and so many authors writing with little depth, you are like a glass of crystal cool water to this thirsty reader!  And I thank God for all he does through you so those of us who read your books can dwell on his goodness more and more!

 

Dear Hannah,

Seldom have I received such a lovely and all-encompassing email. Thank you so much for sharing from the heart, though it was hard to learn of your son’s current issues. I would be happy to share Elena with you, were it only possible.

Political Challenges Minus the Doomsday Mentality, Says Reviewer of ‘Hidden in Dreams’

Tuesday, May 7th, 2013

By Carol Kelley
Guest Reviewer

Hidden in Dreams by Davis BunnI love reading great books, whether reconnecting with an old favorite or discovering something new. Recently I became reacquainted with one of my favorite authors, Davis Bunn. His recent novel, Hidden in Dreams, combines fascinating subject matter and memorable characters with a suspenseful plot. I was hooked from the first chapter!

You can count on Davis Bunn’s books to deliver an action-packed read, and Hidden in Dreams is certainly no exception. The story centers on Dr. Elena Burroughs, professor, psychologist, dream interpretation expert and author. She is hearing alarming reports – numerous individuals scattered across the globe are all experiencing the same disturbing dream.

Then Elena’s own nightmares begin. Could they be legitimate prophetic warnings, or perhaps something more sinister?

Her faith, friendships, and professional principles are all about to be severely tested.

Hidden in Dreams speaks to current economic and political challenges with amazing accuracy, yet without lapsing into a doomsday mentality. As you read, you will find yourself drawn into Elena’s challenge to differentiate between subtle shades of truth and error, and your own powers of discernment will be tested along with hers.

Dream interpretation can be extremely subjective, as Dr. Burroughs knows. She learns to trust her intuition and discern what is true, and also comes to value the prayers and perceptions of trusted friends.

I give Hidden in Dreams a 4 star (out of 5) rating. While I devoured the book eagerly, some of the descriptions and dialogue were a bit clichéd. But I applaud Davis Bunn for writing a well-researched, fast-paced novel about dream interpretation.

This topic is of great personal interest to me. My husband and I both firmly believe that God wishes to communicate with his children; dreams are one way that he can convey truth to us. I appreciate that Bunn outlined some historical and spiritual principles for interpreting dreams, while also emphasizing the importance of exercising sound discernment. In life as in dream interpretation, things are not always as they first appear!

This review was originally published on Carol Kelley’s blog, Global Vision Connection. Reprinted with permission from the author.

‘Perilous Stakes’ in ‘Rare Earth’, Writes Reviewer

Tuesday, April 23rd, 2013

Rare Earth by Davis BunnBy Mary A. Hake
Guest Reviewer

Davis Bunn’s books never disappoint. Intrigue and danger stalk the characters through this suspenseful novel. Marc Royce, whom we met in Bunn’s masterpiece Lion of Babylon, is geared for another wild adventure—this time in Kenya.

Are those dispatched to aid native refugees somehow involved in further disrupting their fragile lives? US and the UN involvement up the perilous stakes, and Royce wonders whom he can truly trust.

Forging ahead amidst chaotic circumstances, Royce works to bring hope and justice to the group he’s sent to assist. Impressed by Charles, the native pastor, and Philip, the wise young head chief, Royce works with them to solve a problem much larger than he expected to uncover. He also falls for the Jewish Christian relief worker, Kitra, whose brother has gone missing.

Bunn, as usual, weaves an involved plot into a fascinating story filled with thought-provoking issues. Philip had dreamed of a hero who would deliver his people, a shujaa. He told Royce that Royce must decide if he was ready for this role. They both knew the true meaning of a real hero—sacrifice. Royce proves his willingness and ability to give his all to the task.

Some violence is involved, of course, but I appreciate the author skipping explicit details.

This book was just announced as a Christy finalist in the Suspense category. Congratulations to one of my favorite authors!

Readers Ask: Have You Trained to be a Secret Agent?

Tuesday, April 9th, 2013

Gary writes:

After reading two books about Marc Royce, I realize that of all your books and characters, he is the clearest picture of the man you have become. His strengths are those that I have pictured of you: take-charge, confidence under pressure, quick assessments with a plan to bring about the right course, spiritual to the core. Reading Lion of Babylon and Rare Earth has been like watching you in your day to day life. Of course, the adventure and danger are truly Marc’s, but the way he handles situations is truly Davis. Thanks so much for your fantastic writing, please don’t quit. I learn so very much about life.

Dear Gary,

While I am immensely grateful for this comparison to a former secret agent, who is trained in hand-to-hand combat and any number of guns, alas, that is not me.

I studied karate, yes. And I have friends on the force who take me out to the firing range and introduce me to their weapons. But I am a neophyte. I do it like I do all research, so there is this level of authenticity to the tale. But what you have described about Marc’s inner realm, that touched me deeply. I would like to think I have some small vestige of these traits.

Reader Question: How Can I Experience God’s Presence in Daily Life?

Tuesday, April 2nd, 2013

Charis writes:

I got a copy of your book, The Presence (TJ Case Series #1), from a friend last Sunday, and it has upset my week.

I am a Christian, have been for nearly 20 years; pastor’s wife right now. Your description of TJ’s relationship with the Lord is almost too true to believe. So easy. Is it really that easy to stay in experience the Presence on a daily basis? I want that.

I think that most of my life has been like Jeremy. And, as Reverend Wilkins said, it takes a strong man to follow the quieter voice of the Lord. I do not possess that kind of strength. But I do know that I want the Presence, quiet or otherwise, every day.

Dear Charis,

There are certain times when I read responses from readers, and feel as though my responsibility as a believer and writer have been met, at least in this person’s heart.

Jeremy does indeed represent for me and many others the disciple’s heart, where things are far from clear, but there is a true conviction that service and support, harmony and strength-giving, are essential elements to coming closer to the divine will.

I personally feel that those who do not hear the divine voice are in fact the stronger, just as the Scriptures tell us, for they follow through faith alone. It can be an arid walk, the path rough, the going sometimes in utter dark save for the heart’s lone candle illuminating just that one next step.

And yet by following His lead, and remaining true in the depths of hardship and yearning, I believe the servant becomes the true recipient of the kingdom. I truly do believe.

Reader Letter: The Maestro

Tuesday, March 5th, 2013

Shari writes:

My question is regarding your book The Maestro. I found a copy of this book at a used book store and of course, bought it.

I had no idea when I first began reading it the impact this book would have on me. It was so strong in pointing out our need to forgive, even the deepest hurt, the bitterest heartache, when we realize we have no control over those relationships (father, mother, siblings, husband, wife, children) we have been placed in the middle of, to change their response toward us…we can’t “get” them to love us, or even accept us for who we are.

I felt Gianni’s pain that you described in the book regarding his father’s rejection of him, and Professor Doktor Schmidt’s demand to stifle his creativity.

The whole book was captivating and real. But most of all, the truth of God’s Word, especially His promise from Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans that I have for you, plans to prosper you, not to harm you; plans to give you hope and a future.”

I am wondering why you don’t list this book in the forward pages of your current books (it’s not even listed on your website)?

Dear Shari,

What a beautiful email, and what a pleasure it was to revisit The Maestro. The reason it is not listed is because it has been out of print now for about ten years. When a book has been out for that long, I tend not to promote it as a title because folks find it so hard to locate. But we have recently heard from Amazon that they want to put all my backlist on their Prime lending site. So all this could change within the next year to eighteen months.

Readers Ask: Where Can I Find a List of All Davis Bunn’s Books?

Wednesday, January 16th, 2013

Fran writes: 

Where on your site exists a list of all of your books?  If you do not have one, would you put one on please.

I’m a huge fan And my husband reads your books also… And now my sister…

Dear Fran,

My website, davisbunn.com, contains a list of all books that are currently in print. As I have been a published author now for 22 years, it is inevitable that some of these books will drop off the publishing schedules. But hard, just the same.

As things continue to change on the e-book front, it looks likely that within the next 24 months virtually all of my books will be made available in that format. As that happens, my site will be updated.

Here is a downloadable PDF of most of my books.

Please visit the Books page on my website for detailed information about my books in print.

Readers Ask About Heirs of Acadia Series

Wednesday, January 9th, 2013

Beverly writes:

Just finished your first book of the Heirs of Acadia series and have started book 2.

It was absolutely amazing! I am in awe of your and Isabella’s writing; never read anyone’s that was as spellbound as yours.

Dear Beverly,

‘Heirs’ is a series that seemed to gain energy and depth as the books came out, something that has only happened with two other series I’ve written, the Priceless Collection (Florian’s Gate, The Amber Room, and Winter Palace) and the final three books Janette Oke and I did together (The Centurion’s Wife, The Hidden Flame, and The Damascus Way). I’m delighted to learn of your connection to these tales, and wish you great reading.

Jennifer writes:

I wanted to contact you on behalf of my grandmother who is technologically deficient! She LOVES your books and was very excited to read The Loyal Renegade.

There was a “teaser” in the back of another book that she had just finished. Our little public library couldn’t find it in any of the libraries in IN. I have scoured the net, but I myself am not the greatest surfer of cyber warehouses so I thought I would shortcut and contact you directly after coming across your information email address.

Can you give me any information on this book?

Dear Jennifer,

The Loyal Renegade was never written. I became caught up in work with Janette Oke on a new series—her last, at least for now, due to her health—and because we did not know how much time we had to work on this, I combined that story and the final in the series into one book, Falconer’s Quest.

Please tell your grandmother that my wife, who lectures at universities in the UK and the US, is almost on the same level as she is when it comes to computer thingies. I have to write out instructions for the TV remote.

**Note: If you’d like to read the Heirs of Acadia series, the books are available from online booksellers and from your local library. Here is a list of all five books in the series, in order:

Book 1: The Solitary Envoy

Book 2: The Innocent Libertine

Book 3: The Noble Fugitive

Book 4: The Night Angel

Book 5: Falconer’s Quest

And here are links to the books in the Priceless Collection series:

   

Reader Enjoys Audio Version of ‘Heartland’

Thursday, January 3rd, 2013

Kay writes: 

I have only had the opportunity to read four of your books, but wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed Heartland. I listened to it, while traveling. I can’t recall the reader’s name, but he did a wonderful job. I felt such a connection with your characters and was very uplifted by your story. Thanks so much for your interesting and inspirational writing.

Dear Kay,

I have never actually listened to the audio version of Heartland; most authors find it difficult because the book has to be shortened in order to fit the time allotted. It is like reading a condensed version of one of our books.

The key to a good version of either is to only take out what is not crucial to the major plot, and the logic of the climax. I am very, very glad to hear they did a good job, both with this edit, and the actual read.

Just in case you are interested, I have done one other book about Hollywood, which I remain intensely pleased with. It is entitled My Soul To Keep, and if you have a chance to read it, I hope you find this a worthy effort.