These novels offer good stories and interesting characters. They are great choices for a weekend's reading.

A Simple Winter

By Rosalind Lauer

Ballantine, $15

This touching book is the first of a series called "A Seasons of Lancaster" series. "A Simple Winter" introduces readers to the King family, an Amish family living in Lancaster County, Pa.

Adam King meets journalist Remy MacAllister on the train as he returns home following the murder of his parents. Adam is now the head of his family of siblings; Remy has her own issues. She is going back to Philadelphia feeling that she has failed in her attempt to strike out on her own. Her father owns a newspaper, so she will be working there.

A chance conversation with Adam makes her realize that there is something else out there, and a year later, with a chance to do a follow-up story about the murders, Remy makes contact with the family.

It's obvious to everyone that there is a spark there, but can a woman who is not Amish make the commitment to change her life so radically - even for love?

The Strangers on Montagu Street

By Karen White NAL Trade, $15

"The Strangers on Montagu Street" is one of Karen White's mysteries set in Charleston, S.C.

I love all of Karen's books, and I was particularly looking forward to this one, which continues the story of Melanie Middleton, a Realtor with a special gift, and writer Jack Trentholm.

Throughout the series, it's been obvious to everyone but Melanie and Jack that they are destined to be together, but right now they are on the outs. When a teenage girl named Nola comes to town, explaining that Jack is her father from a college romance, Melanie agrees to let Nola stay with her for a while.

Jack, trying to get Nola to like him, buys her an antique dollhouse, which seems to have a sinister side. Melanie and Jack must find out what the secrets are behind the family that owned the home on which the dollhouse is based.

No matter what, Karen White always offers a good read.

A Promise of Safekeeping

By Lisa Dale

Berkley, $15

Lauren Matthews is feeling guilty. She was involved in the prosecution of an innocent man.

Arlen Fieldstone has been released after serving nine years for a murder he didn't commit. Lauren feels she absolutely must confront Arlen to offer a personal apology, but Arlen's best friend, Will Farris, guards his friend zealously. Lauren persists in her quest, determined to earn Arlen's forgiveness, and perhaps something more from Will. It's an enjoyable, well-written book.

Ordinary World

By Elisa Lorello

Amazon Encore, $13.95

This book is the sequel to "Faking It," and continues the saga of Andi Cutrone.

Things have been going well for Andi and her husband, Sam - until Sam is killed by a drunk driver. Andi's life goes downhill fast. She can't seem to get her life together.

When she finally goes through Sam's clothes, Andi discovers that he had purchased tickets for a trip to Rome as an anniversary gift. Even though the tickets have expired, her story resonates with the airline staff, so they agree to honor the tickets.

Her arrival in Rome coincides with that of David, a man she had known in New York. Is she ready to move forward with her life?

That's the $64,000 question.

Contact Faye Dasen at fdasen@thepilot.com.