New Action-Packed Thriller “Christmas in Havana” Explores Love and Loyalties Amidst International Intrigue
Centreville, VA – Christmas in Havana, the gripping third installment of Stephen Hiemstra’s Masquerade series, is now available. Combining political intrigue, action, and romance, Hiemstra’s latest novel dives deep into the complexities of love and loyalty in the face of personal grief and international crisis.
Luke Stevens, a CIA agent working undercover as a pastor, finds himself haunted by his ex-wife’s death as he eulogizes her. Just when Luke is ready to move forward, North Korean law student Ruth Chǔ (Yong Dae Chû) enters his life. She is secretly entangled in a dangerous game of espionage, working as a courier for North Korea’s Reconnaissance General Bureau (RGB) to support her family. Both Luke and Ruth must navigate their complicated pasts and present loyalties, all while international tensions threaten to boil over.
When China’s plan to invade Taiwan comes to light, with Cuba playing a key role in the diversionary attacks, Luke and Ruth are thrown into a whirlwind of danger. The novel raises the stakes with rogue operatives, international betrayal, and a contract placed on Luke’s life. Despite the chaos surrounding them, Luke and Ruth form a bond, quietly supporting each other as they face impossible choices.
Hiemstra’s skillful writing combines fast-paced action with thoughtful character development. Readers are treated to rapid-fire dialogue and a suspenseful plot that turns on a dime, keeping them on the edge of their seats. As Luke and Ruth struggle with their own personal dilemmas, Hiemstra skillfully weaves in commentary on international politics, hinting at larger global consequences and political missteps.
Praise for Christmas in Havana
“Having traveled to Havana, I can attest to the city’s rich history and intrigue, and Stephen Hiemstra captures this perfectly. Christmas in Havana is a thrilling read filled with action and suspense.”
— Percy M. Burns, Author of Glorious Freedom
“Stephen Hiemstra guides readers through a captivating adventure that reflects life itself, blending action and emotion with ease. Christmas in Havana is a fascinating story of love, loyalty, and survival.”
— Julio Martinez, Senior Pastor, Shadai Phoenix Church
“Christmas in Havana is a powerful conclusion to Hiemstra’s trilogy. It’s a fast-moving drama full of romance, action, and spiritual reflection.”
— Sharron Giambanco, Business Owner and Writer
About the Author
Stephen W. Hiemstra (MDiv, PhD) is a husband, father, and writer with a passion for Christian spirituality and ministry. After a 27-year career as an economist with the U.S. government, Hiemstra transitioned into ministry, serving as a pastor and writer. He has published numerous books, including Called Along the Way and A Christian Guide to Spirituality, and writes regularly on his blog. Stephen holds a Master of Divinity from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and a PhD in Agricultural Economics from Michigan State University.
For more information and to sign up for Stephen’s newsletter,
Visit www.stephenwhiemstra.net
Contact Information:
Contact Person : Stephen W. Hiemstra
Email: t2pneuma@gmail.com
Blog: https://t2pneuma.net
Books: https://t2pneuma.com
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Economy Circle journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
