There’s nothing quite like book mail, is there? I thought I’d start 2022 off right by ordering some new-to-me books (from Baker Books and Christian Books). Here’s what I ordered and why:
Jesus Always by Sarah Young: I kept seeing a woman I follow on Instagram posting pages from this book with many meaningful phrases highlighted—phrases that struck me so hard I found myself taking screen shots, and then decided I needed to order the book for myself. Bonus—the cover is as beautiful as the contents.
An Endless Christmas by Cynthia Ruchti: I love Cynthia but am woefully behind on reading her books. When a local friend posted that this book is set in and around Stillwater, MN (one of our favorite nearby towns), I knew I needed to read it. Who says Christmas novellas are only for December?
Pudge & Prejudice by A. K. Pittman: I have been meaning to read this Pride and Prejudice reimagining for some time now (perhaps partly inspired by the extra pudge I’ve been carrying after these last two years). This Booklist quote helped too: “In this retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice set in 1984…Pittman wonderfully reimagines Austen’s classic with a modern twist that features many issues facing adolescents today: body image, social status, romance.”
The London House by Katherine Reay: I’ve fallen behind on Katherine’s books too, but I’ve enjoyed those I’ve read. And since I’m missing London and all-things-England right now, I knew I had to visit London through Katherine’s skilled storytelling.
A Woman Who Trusts God, Finding the Peace You Long For by Debbie Alsdorf: Anyone else longing for peace? A sister-writer I met recently, Christine Trimpe, recommended this book, so I bought it. (Isn’t word of mouth the best?) Christine is also a Christian health coach, so if any of you, like me, want to get healthier physically and spiritually this year, I’d recommend taking a look at her resources and coaching options, starting here. Also, in a fun serendipity, the book’s author Debbie Alsdorf just became an agent with Books & Such, the literary agency who represents me—and now Christine as well. Based primarily on the book of Philippians, Debbie encourages us to live one day at a time, to rejoice and not to worry, and to give thanks to God in all circumstances of life, especially during difficult times. Sounds like just what I need. You too?
I have started reading three of these and so far, so very good. (My good friend snapped up Pudge and Prejudice and The London House to read first). Have you read any of these titles? What books are on your “To Be Read” pile this month? Hope your 2022 is off to a great start!
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I LOVED Reay’s London House last year! Full of old letters, diaries, and interesting things about the fashion industry and the Nazis! 😳😍 I’ve been curious about that Sarah Young title and I too like Jane Austen spin-offs *sometimes* 😉 and am curious about that one! My recent favorite spin-off was about Mary Bennett called The Other Bennett Sister by Janice Hadlow. It was SO good.
Thanks, Amy. Sounds intriguing. I haven’t read The Other Bennett Sister yet. Another for my TBR!
I recently read THE LONDON HOUSE, and I loved it.
Good to know, Robin! Now if only I can prise it from my friend’s hands. 🙂
I am almost done with The London House & like the others, I have enjoyed it a lot, too. I also just read your latest book & loved it! I’m not sure yet what will be next for me, but those will be hard acts to follow. 😀
Thank you, Amy. So glad you loved Shadows of Swanford Abbey!
Hi Julie, I also picked Jesus Always as my devotional for 2022 😃 Isn’t it so beautiful and encouraging? Do you know that there is a newsletter (called “Jesus Calling Daily”) available at Harper Collins where you can get a free daily devotion of one of Sarah Young’s books?
I did NOT know that, Coco. Thanks so much!
Julie, thank you so much for the shout out! I am positive you will be truly blessed by Debbie Alsdorf’s book on peace. And what a small world how we all connected.
Right now I am reading your recent release, and Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker PhD (for all the geeky science), and Hit Hard by Pat and Tammy McLeod (with Cynthia Ruchti). The last one chronicles the story of their son suffering a TBI and their “new” life.
With Joy,
Christine
I’m reading Shadows of the Past by Patricia Bradley. First in a series
I’ve got “The London House” and “Shadows of Swanford Abbey” to pick up at my local branch library! 🙂 Took awhile to get from library vendors but what can you do?
I’ve read all of Katherine Reay’s previous novels so I’m looking forward into her 1st foray into historical fiction.
London House is on my list! And I just added Pudge and Prejudice. And your new one, too. I need to get to it! 🙂
Hi Julie, I listened to The London House in one day. It is so good! I have Pudge and Prejudice on my tbr.