About angels: companions in our search for God by Michael Trainor. St Pauls Publications Australia, 2009 hb 48p $12.95

This small volume by Flinders University theology lecturer Trainor transcends the pretty popularist books about angels. His interests in history and archaeology are evident as he discusses the popularity of angels, their names and qualities, and Biblical stories. He provides applications for daily life and suggestions for contemplation. Ideal for book clubs and study groups.

Outback by Angela Williams. HSM Publishing, 2009 pb 24p $9.95
Have you ever wondered just what the twelve apostles did once the excitement of the Day of Pentecost died down? With detailed research the author has formed a reasonably accurate picture of where each apostle went and how they preached the gospel.

Desolate beauty: poems of love and loss  by Trudy Adams. Ark House Press, 2009 pb 214p $19.95

Fire is a subtle motif throughout this novel, both literally in the events of a hot dry summer, and figuratively in the flammable emotions of the central character, 17 year-old Lizzie. There’s the raw redness of anger, the flickering of young love, the smouldering dislike of her mother, the burn out of hard work, and the constant flaring of emotions. But then there’s also the warmth of friendship with her father, her aunt and an American friend Jill who is a Christian. Lizzie learns about the refining effect of life’s dramas (death, loss, drought and fire), and that her future does is not controlled these tragedies, or by her own mistakes or those of her relatives and friends. This fast paced narrative, with several strong sub-plots, is sure to appeal to adults as well as teens. It’s a great story from a young NSW author.

A Design of Gold by Paula Vince. Apple Leaf Books, 2009 pb 239p $19.95

This novel picks up characters and threads from two of the author’s previous novels ‘Risky way home’ and ‘Picking up the pieces’. Set in Mount Barker SA, the novel centres on several young adults -   Nicola, blaming herself for a tragedy, seeks refuge staying with family friends, while she grapples with guilt and self image issues. Her life then intertwines with Jerome, who has an idealistic fervor to make a difference with his life and Michael who is trying hard to guide his life away from past mistakes.  The characters and plot work well together, with both romance and drama. Themes of Christian mentoring, acceptance and kindness run throughout.

Outback from Baragula by Mary Hawkins. Ark House Press, 2009 pb 261p $19.95

This second book in the Baragula trilogy moves out west to New South Wales station country. Baragula resident Steve Honeysuckle wrestles with his feelings for Davidson Downs resident Jillian Davidson. Unhappy childhood memories deter him from making any commitment. The Christian attitudes of many of the characters come under scrutiny. This romantic plot line is energised by the drama of drought, cattle stealing, life-threatening attacks, hospital emergencies and gambling addiction. Mary Hawkins’ portrayal of the outback is very realistic. The romantic sparring, the nefarious deeds of the villains and the heroes’ effort to foil them are guaranteed to keep you reading to the end - and eagerly awaiting the final book in the trilogy.