Wednesday, January 10, 2018

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! :-)



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.  


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


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 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.
 

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. 


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!
 

12 comments:

  1. What a great list of wonderful books! It is wonderful to see your picks, and also read your thoughts about each book too. 2017 was a busy year for you with all the travels and sounds like you are very busy in your church too, which is a wonderful thing! I hope you get some extra cozy time this winter for reading :) Hugs to you today Anne!

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    1. hey Marilyn, Thanks for commenting! Hope you're staying warm. Each book title goes to the review of that book, if you haven't read the reviews or need a reminder. I hope I get some extra time to read too! That would mean life slowed down a little and there are no 'emergencies'. :-) Love to you, my friend!

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  2. We do have such similar reading tastes, Anne!

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    1. I know!!!! It's like we're kindred spirits. :-) xoxo

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  3. Of course, I love this list! I am reading "Crown of Souls" right now and have had a difficult time putting it down!

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    1. Oh Rebecca!!! CoS is SOOOOOOO good!!! I loved it! Might be my fav of all year but you know, there are so many good ones. ;-) You're probably finished with it already. :D

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  4. Wonderful list, Anne! And what a treat to see Shine Like the Dawn listed with those other great books! Blessings and happy reading to you!

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    1. Thanks for stopping by, Carrie! I appreciate the time you take to interact with your fans. Always a pleasure to read your books! Happy New Year!!!

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  5. Woweeee! How did "I" make your list? I am so excited and thrilled. Thank you. You have an awesome list of favorite reads there. :)

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    1. Oh Sharlene, Your book blessed my heart to the point where I started a prayer journal using quotes from the book! Truly, this is a beautiful story you've written!!!

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  6. Oohhh! Thanks Anne for including The Captivating Lady Charlotte among so many wonderful reads. I’m so glad you enjoyed William ❤️

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    1. Carolyn, Appreciate you taking time out of your busy day to leave a comment. Oh yes! William is a wonderful hero. :-)

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I am so delighted that you've taken time to come by and comment. Blessings for a joy-filled day!

1 Corinthians 1:3 ~ Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.