After retiring from twenty-five years on the bench, former chief judge Belvin Perry Jr. reveals a rare and disturbingly vivid firsthand perspective of the most gruesome death penalty cases in which he played a key role, including the infamous Casey Marie Anthony, who was dubbed “America’s Most Hated Mom” after her shocking acquittal.The Velvet Hammer is the gripping, true-crime memoir of former Chief Judge Belvin Perry Jr., who sentenced some of Florida’s most evil and notorious mu...

This authoritative resource examines the significant influence parents have on children's developmental outcomes and the challenges of modern-day parenting. Highlighting the pivotal role parents play throughout their child’s lifespan, this important book guides students through the complexities of raising children in the twenty-first century.Key features include the analysis of the dynamics between parents and children across generations and cultures, a comparison of the historical...

In Wells Landing, Oklahoma's warm and welcoming Amish community, there's always hope for a new beginning—and a second chance . . .Five tumultuous years have changed Titus Lambert in every way. Back then, Titus was preparing to marry his longtime sweetheart, Mandy Yoder. Then came the unthinkable—a tragic car wreck that left Titus serving time for vehicular manslaughter.Titus isn't sure he belongs in this peaceful place anymore, but he must make amends. When...

As the most joyous of seasons comes to the Amish community of Wells Landing, Oklahoma, one young woman gets a chance to start again—and rediscover the gift of true love . . .Families rejoicing together, caroling parties full of cheer, and church get-togethers brimming with delicious cooking and warm fellowship. Ivy Weaver would give anything to be a part of Christmas in Wells Landing. But one reckless mistake made her an outsider, and it's all she can do now to ten...

The Lord is the foundation of every lasting marriage—and when husbands and wives pray for each other, God's power can work miracles!Marriage is the most beautiful relationship two people can share, but it can be endlessly complicated. The pressures of modern life can make it seem hard to find the deep and lasting happiness we deserve —some days it even seems impossible!But when we turn our hearts and prayers to God, He can take away all obstacles, and grant us the true, pass...

United by faith, and bonded by their quilting circle, the Amish women of Wells Landing, Oklahoma, are there for one another through all life's joys and challenges . . .Youngest quilter Clara Rose Yutzy is planning her wedding to her longtime beau—which is why she resolutely ignores newly warm feelings for her best friend, Obidiah. But Obie is certain God intends them to be together. With the Lord's help, he'll prove to Clara Rose how much he loves her . . ....

Renewed faith and happiness await three generations of women in this heartwarming series from Amy Lillard, set in the Oklahoma Amish community of Wells Landing . . .With her daughter newly married, widow Charlotte Burkhart should have been content to find a companion for her later years in Amish widower Glenn Esh. Yet, Charlotte longs for more than life has offered her thus far. When she discovers a baby on her doorstep, the child seems like the miracle Charlotte's...

Life isn't always as simple as it seems for the Amish community of Wells Landing, Oklahoma. Neither is love . . .Everyone in town knows that Sarah Yoder is enamored with Jonah Miller, even though he’s been with his girlfriend, Lorie, for years. But all that changes when Lorie runs off with another man. Inconsolable, his faith in love shattered, Jonah resists everyone's attempts to ease his pain—until the unexpected happens one night.Jonah is filled with con...

Emily Ebersol is the bishop's daughter, and everyone—including Emily—assumes that she'll marry a faithful Amish man and live out her days within the community. But her childhood sweetheart, Luke Lambright, fell in love with racing cars during his rumspringa and decided to leave Wells Landing. Emily prays for his return, but as the months go by, she begins spending time with another young man—a man who may not be as exciting as Luke, but perhaps he's exactly what she needs....

An author’s talents may seem obvious and indisputable as they move words and ideas into gathered phrases and stories.But where do these ideas and stories come from? A lonely thought that suddenly gathers form? An inspiration from a Muse? A suggestio

In this sweet and steamy box set of nostalgic romcoms, five found family friends make their mark in the small southern town dubbed the Hollywood of the South, even as they drift apart, fall in love, and come together again.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Bursting with nineties pop culture references, complex characters, and delightful storytelling!” – Goodreads reviewI’ll Stand By YouCan five friends grow up without growing apart?W...

An investigation of how the trauma of shipwreck affected American values and behaviorA Sea of Misadventures examines more than one hundred documented shipwreck narratives from the seventeenth to the nineteenth century as a means to understanding gender, status, and religion in the history of early America. Though it includes all the drama and intrigue afforded by maritime disasters, the book's significance lies in its investigation of how the trauma of shi...