Anne's Top Reads of 2017

2017….What a busy year! I would like to say I had unlimited time to sit and read every day but that was not the way it was. I didn’t do much with my photography during the year either, as you probably noticed if you’re a regular around here. What I did do was a lot of traveling (driving, not flying); two trips to MO to see our son, and numerous trips to NC, one in which was in order to help care for my FIL in his last two weeks of life. I also devoted many hours to my women’s Bible study group, church prayer group, and was available to fellowship with and offer help to friends who needed assistance. Reading was a pleasure and privilege but not a priority this past year. I let the ball drop on a couple of books but I’m determined to do better in 2018, Lord willing and life doesn’t swoop down and throw me for a loop.

That being said, I did read some mighty fine books last year. I stepped out and read a few new-to-me authors and was pleasantly surprised by their stories, enough to include them in my Top Reads of 2017. And then there are the familiar authors, that you know when you pick up their book it’s going to be like coming home. They’re on here too!

In no particular order, these are some of my favorites that I requested or was offered a copy from the author or publisher in exchange for a review. I'm doing 12 because Rebecca started it! :-)

Just the Way You Are by Pepper Basham

Basham’s writing talent is simply amazing! It’s been a while since I sat with a book in my hand and just pondered on profound thoughts filling the page.  

Catching the Wind by Melanie Dobson

This story has it all. It encompasses complicated relationships, crafty and cunning characters, and a gentle and beloved faith in God that will lead to forgiveness and reconciliation.  

Maybe It’s You by Candace Calvert

Working together like a well-oiled machine, the compliment of characters is simply amazing. 

The House on Foster Hill by Jaime Jo Wright
(debut novel and a new-to-me writer/author)

If you enjoy stories that make you think twice before turning off the lights, then you will like this book.  

Crown of Souls by Ronie Kendig

Crown of Souls is a global thrill ride suffused with heart pounding, adrenaline driven moments. 

The Captivating Lady Charlotte by Carolyn  Miller

I thought William embodied Colossians 3:12 ~ So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience...  
What's not to love?!     

True to You by Becky Wade

True to You is fabulous! Packed with surprises, the emotional elements in this story stirred my heart and soul and held me spellbound with their rawness and intensity. 

An Uncommon Courtship by Kristi Ann Hunter
I relished my reading time curled up with a hot cup of tea or cocoa, separated from distractions so I could engage deeply with these fabulous characters.    

Heart on the Line by Karen Witemeyer
Fans of historical fiction with strong Christian values, mystery, and romance will enjoy this book.  

Summer on Sunset Ridge by Sharlene MacLaren

MacLaren has long been a must-read author for me. With eloquent strokes of her pen or keyboard, the people of picturesque Sunset Ridge come alive, revealing a community that is far from ordinary. My time spent there was one of learning and wonder and blessing. 

A Mother for His Family by Susanne Dietze
(new-to-me author)

Restoration is a prevalent theme in this story, brought about in a tender way. 

Shine Like the Dawn by Carrie Turansky

Shine Like the Dawn is a beautiful depiction of faith and family and love, radiating a sunburst of emotions that swept this reader deep into the story, making it difficult to come up for air. 

There you have it. These were all wonderfully written narratives that moved my heart and soul!

I'm anticipating equally extraordinary stories in 2018. I hope you'll follow along with Rebecca and I as we share our love of good Christian fiction. 

Have you read any of my Top Reads of 2017? If so, what did you think? Or share a favorite of your own! 
We love book recommendations. :-)

~Happy Reading~

Note: Blogging is a might frustrating at times, especially when I cannot get all the formatting to look the same! I'm the type of person that those 'minor' inconsistencies in spacing and/or sizing drives nuts but I am posting anyway. I am not too HTML savvy, worked on this for hours and just could not figure it out. So please forgive the lousy formatting. TY!