I took an unscheduled sabbatical in August. I didn’t even realize it until the month was almost over!
The truth is, I was exhausted from the pace of our January-July. And I was waiting on the last look-over of my manuscript before I can move to audio book production. And languishing in the extreme heat. I found enough energy to write my blogs and newsletters, but mostly I’ve work on a puzzlea and read. A lot.
All of that explains why this month’s post is, well, a tad long. 😂
A few overall observations. First, I did finish my quick read through the Bible this month. No need to review that. Second, I listened to the most books ever this month—because I could listen and do other things like work on my puzzle or clean out and organize drawers or cabinets! All of them had a good narrator, too. Third, I read two physical books this month, which is a ton for me, too. But both had me turning pages as fast as I could!
So where to start? I’m torn, so I think we’ll alternate between contemporary and historical!
The Burning Side by Sarah Damoff
Y’all. I read this (physical) book in two days. Two! I started on Saturday mid-morning and finished at dinner time on Sunday. It wrecked me in all the best ways. I literally could not stop turning pages. And tears. So many tears—both happy and sad. I really like Sarah’s first book. This one? Wow. (FYI—A few mild curse words, 1 f- near the end, and a couple of PG-13 quick sex scenes.)
The Cromarty Library Circle by Shona Maclean
Unlike her (S.G. Maclean) other books, this is not historical suspense. But I loved it all the same. She is an amazing writer and this ensemble story about one year in a small town north of Inverness made me feel like I was living there with those people! It also made me want to go back to Scotland and visit Cromarty! I don’t typically read physical books quickly, but I did with this one. Especially as it became apparent everyone weren’t as they appeared . . . (FYI–maybe half a dozen mild curse words.)
The Sowing Season by Katie Powner
I’ve enjoyed all of Katie’s books that I’ve read, but this might be one of my favorites. I fell in love with the curmudgeonly Gerrit who had a softer heart than he let on. If you like contemporary stories of multi-generational friendships, try this one. The audio version was really nice.
Whispers at Painswick Court by Julie Klassen
Regency romance and mystery! I love Julie’s books, and this one was great. I finished it in three days! Even though I thought I knew “who did it”, she kept me second-guessing myself until the end. The narrator was a good in this audioversion.
The Fifth Avenue Story Society by Rachel Hauck
It’s been some years since I’ve read a Rachel Hauck book. She is such a great storyteller. And I do love ensemble stories like this one. Five people brought together by a mysterious invitation and their lives are changed because of it. Contemporary fiction with lots of love stories! The narrator did a great job.
Mists over the Channel Islands by Sarah Sundin
World War II on Jersey. So, so good. The characters were amazing and I loved both the history and the romance.
Defender by Michelle Sass Aleckson
Sixth book of the Heroes of Renegade—and it was great! Definitely one of my favorites in the series.
To Dance with a Duke by Gabrielle Meyer
Oh. My. I enjoyed the first book in the Dollar Princess series, each book based on a movie musicals, but I LOVED this one! She absolutely captured the Seven Brides for Seven Brothers vibe in this one. Pure delight. And also a mystery. I’ve already pre-ordered the next book!
Through Water and Stone by Karen Barnett
Zion National Park is the setting for this dual timeline novel. Both the historical and the contemporary story captured me equally. One twist and turn after another. She does this so well!
Every Word Unsaid by Kimberly Duffy
Somehow I missed this final book in the Dreams of India series! It was on my kindle but I hadn’t read it. Really, really good. Loved the insight into India but also Gussie’s spiritual journey.
The Stories We Carry by Robin W. Pearson
Books that celebrate books and bookstores always appeal to me. But I confess that this story fell a bit short of my hopes for it. However, it was compelling enough for me to want to finish it. And I did find myself wanting good for the characters.
A Lass Beloved by Nichole Van
Sigh. A swoon worthy romance set in the Highlands—actually set on the same peninsula as The Cromarty Library Circle! Isn’t that crazy? Nichole’s books are closed door romances but she always has a few mild curse words sprinkled though the book. Still, I love my trips to Scotland through her books.
Shadow by Susan May Warren
The final book of Heroes of Renegade—and it was a doozy! Definitely my favorite of the series. And a twist that crossed my mind but then I dismissed it.
The Lawyer and the Laundress by Christine Hill Suntz
My first book by this author—and I listened to it. I picked it up because it was about a lawyer, but it was more than that. It involves a piece of Canadian history I didn’t know about! What a great surprise! (I only wish all audiobooks included the author’s note, because I wanted to know more about the history!) Good story. Well written. I will definitely add her next book to my list.
Whew! Are you still here? A long list, but a good one. And oh, how I’ve loved the relaxation of days of reading after so much travel and so many people. I know I’ll have to reenter real life soon, but for now, this has been bliss.
I don’t think next month’s list will be quite so hefty, but then again . . . 😏
Have you read any of these? Are they on your To Read list?