Becky Wade – författare

From elite marathoner and Olympic hopeful Becky Wade comes the story of her year-long exploration of diverse global running communities from England to Ethiopia-9 countries, 72 host families, and over 3,500 miles of running-investigating unique cultural approaches to the sport and revealing the secrets to the success of runners all over the world. Fresh off a successful collegiate running career-with multiple NCAA All-American honors and two Olympic Trials qualifying marks to her name-Becky Wade was no stranger to international competition. But after years spent safely sticking to the training methods she knew, Becky was curious about how her counterparts in other countries approached the sport to which she'd dedicated over half of her life. So in 2012, as a recipient of the Watson Fellowship, she packed four pairs of running shoes, cleared her schedule for the year, and took off on a journey to infiltrate diverse running communities around the world. What she encountered far exceeded her expectations and changed her outlook into the sport she loved.Over the next twelve months-visiting 9 countries with unique and storied running histories, logging over 3,500 miles running over trails, tracks, sidewalks, and dirt roads-Becky explored the varied approaches of runners across the globe. Whether riding shotgun around the streets of London with Olympic champion sprinter Usain Bolt, climbing for an hour at daybreak to the top of Ethiopia's Mount Entoto just to start her daily run, or getting lost jogging through the bustling streets of Tokyo, Becky's unexpected adventures, keen insights, and landscape descriptions take the reader into the heartbeat of distance running around the world. Upon her return to the United States, she incorporated elements of the training styles she'd sampled into her own program, and her competitive career skyrocketed. When she made her marathon debut in 2013, winning the race in a blazing 2:30, she became the third-fastest woman marathoner under the age of 25 in U.S. history, qualifying for the 2016 Olympic Trials and landing a professional sponsorship from Asics.From the feel-based approach to running that she learned from the Kenyans, to the grueling uphill workouts she adopted from the Swiss, to the injury-recovery methods she learned from the Japanese, Becky shares the secrets to success from runners and coaches around the world. The story of one athlete's fascinating journey, Run the World is also a call to change the way we approach the world's most natural and inclusive sport.

They’ve helped orchestrate the perfect day for countless couples. Now twelve new couples will find themselves in the wedding spotlight in the second Year of Weddings novella collection.Love Takes the Cake: A September Wedding Story by Betsy St. AmantCharlotte Cantrell is always the baker; never the bride. When Will, a regular at Charlotte’s bakery, catches her attention, she can only hope that he is the reliable man this single mother has always hoped to find. The problem is that he’s regularly stopping in to buy cookies for another girl. But when Charlotte is hired to bake a host of wedding goodies for a difficult bride and finds out Will is the best man, she has the perfect opportunity to get to know him better—and find out how serious Will is about this other girl in his life.The Perfect Arrangement: An October Wedding Story by Katie GanshertAmelia Woods is a small-town wallflower and the proud owner of Forget-Me-Nots, a quaint flower shop. Her love life has always been a bit lackluster—until she ends up in an embarrassing fender-bender with handsome Nate Gallagher. Meanwhile, Amelia’s younger brother, William, has proposed to his girlfriend. Amelia would be excited except she has evidence that the fiancée is not who she says she is. It seems Nate is the only one available for any advice-giving, and he’s good at it—and pretty fun to talk to too. As Amelia works to craft the perfect flower arrangements for other people, she begins to wonder if real love is better than the dream. And if it is, will Nate still be interested when he learns who she is?Love in the Details: A November Wedding Story by Becky WadeWhen Josh returns to his hometown of Martinsburg, Texas, to help his best friend get married, he didn’t intend to run into church wedding coordinator—and ex-girlfriend—Holly. He can’t help but pine after the girl he never got over. Holly broke up with Josh years ago in an attempt to ensure his future success. But she loved him then and still loves him now. As she helps him plan his best friend’s wedding, she longs to be with Josh but doesn’t feel worthy of his big-time lifestyle when she is more comfortable in her smalltown world. Will Josh and Holly be able to keep things as they are when their true feelings threaten to surface at every turn?

2014 Carol Award Winner for Romance ● 2014 Inspirational Reader's Choice Award Winner for Long ContemporaryWhen Meg Cole's father dies unexpectedly, she's forced to return home to Texas and to Whispering Creek Ranch to take up the reins of his empire. The last thing she has the patience or the sanity to deal with? Her father's Thoroughbred racehorse farm. She gives its manager, Bo Porter, six months to close the place down. Bo knows he ought to resent the woman who's determined to take from him the only job he ever wanted. But instead of anger, Meg evokes within him a profound desire to protect. The more time he spends with her, the more he longs to overcome every obstacle that separates them and earn her love.Just when Meg realizes she can no longer deny the depth of her feelings for Bo, their fragile bond is broken by a force from Meg's past. Can their relationship--and their belief that God can work through every circumstance--survive?

2015 INSPY Award Winner2015 Inspirational Reader's Choice Award Winner (Now Known as Faith, Hope, & Love Reader's Choice Award)Ty Porter has always been irresistible to Celia Park. All through high school--irresistible. When their paths cross again after college--still irresistible. This time, though, Ty seems to feel exactly the same way about Celia. Their whirlwind romance deposits them at a street-corner Las Vegas wedding chapel. The next morning they wake to a marriage certificate and a dose of cold reality. Celia's ready to be Ty's wife, but Ty's not ready to be her husband. He's a professional bull rider, he lives on the road, and he's long planned to settle down with the hometown girl he's known since childhood. Five and a half years pass. Celia's buried her dreams so that she can afford to raise her daughter. Ty's achieved all of his goals. Or thought he had, until he looks again into the eyes of the woman he couldn't forget and into the face of the child he never knew he had.How much will Ty sacrifice to win back Celia's trust and prove to her that their spontaneous marriage can still become the love of a lifetime?Praise for Becky Wade"Definitely one for the keeper shelf!"--USA Today on Undeniably Yours"A sweet contemporary romance that will make for the perfect summer read."--Novel Crossing on Undeniably Yours"A feisty heroine, romance, and comedy make this a fabulous debut and Wade an author to follow."--Library Journal on My Stubborn Heart"A perfect 5 out of 5 stars...can't wait to find more from Becky in the near future. This is a must-read for your summer love stories!"--Reviews from the Heart blog on My Stubborn Heart

2016 RITA Award FinalistFormer Marine Jake Porter has far deeper scars than the one that marks his face. He struggles with symptoms of PTSD, lives a solitary life, and avoids relationships.When Lyndie James, Jake's childhood best friend, lands back in Holley, Texas, Jake cautiously hires her to exercise his Thoroughbreds. Lyndie is tender-hearted, fiercely determined, and afraid of nothing, just like she was as a child. Jake pairs her with Silver Leaf, a horse full of promise but lacking in results, hoping she can solve the mystery of the stallion's reluctance to run.Though Jake and Lyndie have grown into very different adults, the bond that existed during their childhood still ties them together. Against Jake's will, Lyndie's sparkling, optimistic personality begins to tear down the walls he's built around his heart. A glimmer of the hope he'd thought he'd lost returns, but fears and regrets still plague him. Will Jake ever be able to love Lyndie like she deserves, or is his heart too shattered to mend?Praise for Becky Wade"I wasn't ready for this story to end, but when it did, I sighed the happy/longing sort of sigh that romance readers know so well..."--USA Today on Undeniably Yours"They are a couple you'll be rooting for to have their Texas fairy-tale ending."--Romantic Times on Undeniably Yours"I adored this book. It was hilariously funny, heartwarming, and too cute! I laughed. I cried. It made me smile countless times."--Will Bake for Books blog on Meant to Be Mine

2017 Christy Award WinnerGray Fowler, star NFL tight end, is being pursued by a stalker, so his team hires a protection agency to keep Gray under the watch of a bodyguard at all times. When Gray meets Dru Porter, an agent assigned to him, he's indignant. How can an attractive young female half his size possibly protect him?But Dru's a former Marine, an expert markswoman, and a black belt. She's also ferociously determined to uncover the identity of Gray's stalker. And she's just as determined to avoid any kind of romantic attachment between herself and the rugged football player with the mysterious past. But the closer they get to finding the stalker, the closer they grow to each other. As the danger rises, can Dru and Gray entrust their hearts--and their lives--to one another?

Winner of the 2018 Christy Award Book of the YearAfter a devastating heartbreak three years ago, genealogist and historical village owner Nora Bradford has decided that burying her nose in her work and her books is far safer than romance in the here and now.Unlike Nora, former Navy SEAL and Medal of Honor recipient John Lawson is a modern-day man, usually 100 percent focused on the present. But when he's diagnosed with an inherited condition, he's forced to dig into the secrets of his past and his adoption as an infant, enlisting Nora to help him uncover the identity of his birth mother. The more time they spend together, the more this pair of opposites suspects they just might be a perfect match. However, John's already dating someone and Nora's not sure she's ready to trade her crushes on fictional heroes for the risks of a real relationship. Finding the answers they're seeking will test the limits of their identity, their faith, and their devotion to one another.

Winner of the Contemporary Romance category of the Christy AwardWinner of the Romance category of the INSPY AwardFamously beautiful model Willow Bradford is reveling in the peace and quiet of her hometown right up until the moment she comes face-to-face with her ex-boyfriend, Corbin Stewart. Former NFL quarterback Corbin is forceful, charming, and accustomed to getting what he wants . . . except where Willow is concerned. He's never been able to forget her, but Willow makes it crystal clear she's unwilling to risk her heart again. When a decades-old mystery in Corbin's family brings them together, will the heartbreak in their past and the complications in their present keep them from falling for one another all over again?Becky Wade is a native of California who attended Baylor University, met and married a Texan, and now lives in Dallas. A favorite among readers of Christian contemporary romance, Becky has won a Carol Award, an Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, and an INSPY Award. Learn more at www.beckywade.com."This contemporary romance novel is full of love, happiness, and second chances. A lovely story of the dynamics of sibling relationships that are centered around faith and family with a decades old mystery that needs solving, and a chance to rekindle with an old flame all wrapped up in a remarkable love story that is sure to touch your heart. . . . Falling for You is a love story with a mysterious twist that makes this a page turner you do not want to miss!" --Fresh Fiction"The moderate pace and suspense of the second installment of the Bradford Sisters series keeps you reading to discover what happens next. . . . We encounter and sympathize with both characters as they work out their personal internal struggles. This book will stay with you for a long time."--RT Book Reviews

Finalist in the Contemporary Romance category of the Christy AwardFinalist in the Romance category of the INSPY AwardBritt Bradford and Zander Ford have been the best of friends since they met thirteen years ago. Unbeknown to Britt, Zander has been in love with her for just as long.Independent and adventurous Britt channels her talent into creating chocolates at her hometown shop. Zander is a bestselling author who has spent the past eighteen months traveling the world. He's achieved a great deal but still lacks the only thing that ever truly mattered to him--Britt's heart.When Zander's uncle dies under mysterious circumstances, he returns to Merryweather, Washington, to investigate, and Britt is immediately there to help. Although this throws them into close proximity, both understand that an attempt at romance could jeopardize their once-in-a-lifetime friendship. Britt is determined to resist any change in their relationship, but Zander finds it increasingly difficult to keep his feelings hidden.As they work together to uncover his uncle's tangled past, will the truth of what lies between them also finally come to light?"Wade's pleasing finale to the Bradford Sisters series follows Britt, the youngest sister. . . . Britt's sisters return as strong support characters. Wade will delight readers with mouthwatering descriptions of chocolate and cozy scenes of friendship. Series fans will find this a fitting conclusion."--Publishers Weekly

In Kristi Ann Hunter's "Legacy of Love," Sarah Gooding never suspected returning a brooch to an elderly woman would lead to a job . . . and introduce her to the woman's grandson, a man far above her station.In Karen Witemeyer's "Gift of the Heart," widow Ruth Albright uses the family brooch as collateral for a loan from the local banker. But the more she comes to know the man behind the stern businessman, the more she hopes for a second chance at love.In Sarah Loudin Thomas's "A Shot at Love," Fleeta Brady's rough-and-tumble childhood means she prefers hunting to more feminine activities. She never expected her family's brooch might be how a fellow hunter turns her attention from competition to romance. In Becky Wade's "Because of You," Maddie Winslow has spent years in love with a man whose heart was already spoken for. When a church Christmas project brings them together and she stumbles upon an old family brooch, might it finally be her turn for love?

Kate Donovan is burned out on work, worn down by her dating relationships, and in need of an adventure. When her grandmother asks Kate to accompany her to Redbud, Pennsylvania, to restore the grand old house she grew up in, Kate jumps at the chance.Upon her arrival, Kate meets Matt Jarreau, the man hired to renovate the house. Kate can't help being drawn by both his good looks and something else she can't quite put her finger on. He's clearly wounded, yet Kate sets her stubborn heart on bringing him out of the dark and back into the light . . . whether he likes it or not. When the stilted, uncomfortable interactions between Kate and Matt slowly shift into something more, is God finally answering the longing of her heart--or asking her to give up more than she ever dreamed?

Winner of the Contemporary Romance category of the Christy AwardWinner of the Romance Category of the Kipp Book AwardLoving her is a risk he can't afford . . . and can't resist.When acclaimed Bible study author Genevieve Woodward receives an anonymous letter referencing her parents' past, she returns to her hometown in the Blue Ridge Mountains to chase down her family's secret. However, it's Genevieve's own secret that catches up to her when Sam Turner, owner of a historic farm, uncovers the source of shame she's worked so hard to hide.Sam has embraced his sorrow, his isolation, and his identity as an outsider. He's spent years carving out both career success and peace of mind. The last thing he wants is to rent the cottage on his property to a woman whose struggles stir his worst failure back to life. Yet can he bear to turn her away right when she needs him most?"Wade launches the Misty River Romance series with this crafty mix of tragedy, intrigue, and romance. . . . Wade's endearing love story will appeal to readers of Susan May Warren."--Publishers Weekly

The one woman he wants is the one he cannot have.Former foster kid Sebastian Grant has leveraged his intelligence and hard work to become a pediatric heart surgeon. But not even his career success can erase the void he's tried so hard to fill. Then he meets high school teacher Leah Montgomery and his fast-spinning world comes to a sudden stop. He falls hard, only to make a devastating discovery--Leah is the woman his best friend set his heart on months before.Leah's a math prodigy who's only ever had one big dream--to earn her PhD. Raising her little brother put that dream on hold. Now that her brother will soon be college bound, she's not going to let anything stand in her way. Especially romance . . . which is far less dependable than algebra.When Leah receives surprising results from the DNA test she submitted to a genealogy site, she solicits Sebastian's help. Together, they comb through hospital records to uncover the secrets of her history. The more powerfully they're drawn to each other, the more strongly Sebastian must resist, and the more Leah must admit that some things in life--like love--can't be explained with numbers.

2023 Carol Award WinnerHis promise will cost him far more than he imagined.Guilt has defined Luke Dempsey's life, but it was self-destructiveness that landed him in prison. When his friend and fellow inmate lay dying shortly before Luke's release, the older man revealed he left a string of clues for his daughter, Finley, that will lead her to the treasure he's hidden. Worried that she won't be the only one pursuing the treasure, he gains Luke's promise to protect her until the end of her search.Spunky and idealistic, Finley Sutherland is the owner of an animal rescue center and a defender of lost causes. She accepts Luke's help on the treasure hunt while secretly planning to help him in return--by coaxing him to embrace the forgiveness he's long denied himself.As they draw closer to the final clue, their reasons for resisting each other begin to crumble, and Luke realizes his promise will push him to the limit in more ways than one. He'll do his best to shield Finley from unseen threats, but who's going to shield him from losing his heart?

From three bestselling authors come sweet stories about love, friendship, and happily ever after.A Brush with Love by Rachel Hauck (also published in A Season to Wed)Ginger emerges from the pain of a childhood tragedy with a gift for bringing out the beauty in others. Despite her prestigious partnerships and clients, Ginger can’t help feeling like she’s on the outside looking in. But Ginger will have to rally her confidence when she’s asked to be the “beauty-maker” for the Alabama society wedding of the decade.Then her high-school crush Tom Wells Jr. also returns to town and asks her for a haircut, Ginger’s thinly veiled insecurities threaten to keep her locked away from love. Despite Tom’s best efforts, Ginger can’t forget how he disappeared on her twelve years ago and broke her heart. Can she ever trust him again?Love in the Details by Becky Wade (also published in To Have and to Hold)Eight years have passed since Holly last saw her high school sweetheart, Josh. Now his best friend’s wedding has brought Josh back to Martinsburg, Texas.  His duties as best man and Holly's as the church's volunteer wedding coordinator link them together. She never told him the true reason for their breakup all those years ago, but it’s hard to keep the secret as feelings reemerge. And with those feelings comes the fear that held her back the last time.Not a day's gone by since Josh parted from Holly that he hasn't thought about her. He doesn't want to make himself vulnerable to her again, but the more time he spends with her, the harder it is to deny the love he still has for her. As the wedding approaches, both Holly and Josh will have to decide if they want to risk everything for love.An October Bride by Katie Ganshert (also published in Autumn Brides)Emma Tate has just ended an engagement. So when she suddenly announces that she’s engaged—again—this time to her lifelong buddy Jake Sawyer, every busybody in town is talking about it. Of course, no one but Jake and Emma know the real reason they’re getting married: so Emma’s dying father will have a chance to walk her down the aisle.But while Jake and Emma move forward with their plan and frantically organize an October wedding, it becomes clear that their agreement has a few complications—the biggest being their true feelings for each other. With dubious friends, ecstatic parents, and nosy neighbors, Emma and Jake have a lot to contend with if they’re going to pull this off. The real question is who wants this wedding more, Emma’s dad or Emma?