Top Ten Books I Read This Summer

September 15 already?! How?! Somehow I still can’t comprehend we are already in the fall season – maybe because Texas does not believe in fall in September, nope, we have to wait until November…if we’re lucky…to get some temperatures less than 70! This summer has been intense — I finished up my clinical rotations, officially earned my master’s degree, and passed my certification exam! Even with all that, reading is my happy place, so I managed to grab some books while studying at the library these past few months. Since I haven’t done a quick lit post with Anne at Modern Mrs. Darcy for a while, I thought I would share my top ten reads from the summer. I would love to know what you’re currently reading and make sure to click on over to Anne’s site to see even more great titles!

Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover

I loved this incredible debut about beating the odds, the deep ties of family, and the power of education. Be careful, you may forget this is a true story as it is completely immersive. A must read especially if you loved The Glass Castle.

Everybody Always: Becoming Love in a World Full of Setbacks and Difficult People by Bob Goff

Please run to your local bookstore or click over to Amazon and buy this book. We had the honor of hearing Bob speak last year at my in-laws church, and he is just as genuine and hilarious in person as he is in writing. This challenging, Jesus centric book made me laugh, cry, and gave me so much to think about. I believe if we do focus on becoming Love like Jesus did, so many things will fall into place.

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

This book has been on my list for ages, and it did not disappoint. Oh my goodness, what a sweet, beautiful, encouraging read. I loved all the characters and felt like I was living Augie’s story with him. A lovely reminder to look beyond outwards appearances and be kind to everyone.

The Girl Who Wrote in Silk by Kelli Estes

A story that spans hundreds of years, families impacted by decisions by ancestors long ago, and a challenging look at how racial divisions still affect us today. Highly recommend this book for the characters, the writing, and the lessons.

The Sound of Glass by Karen White

Karen White is a well known author that I just discovered. I’m working my way through her collection of titles, but I really enjoyed this one this summer. The characters are richly drawn, the story grabs your attention, and the themes of love, loss, and healing are ones we all can relate to.

Everything Happens for a Reason and Other Lies I’ve Loved by Kate Bowler

In her early 30s with a young son, theologist and historian Kate Bowler was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Her memoir is a triumphant missive of reconciling her faith and diagnosis written with raw and honest prose. Loved this book and this conversation Annie F. Downs had with Kate.

Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler

Nope, no announcements or ulterior motives for posting this book. It was recommended to me a long time ago, and I picked it up on sale this summer…I wish I would have years ago. Whether you are a young teenager, trying to conceive or not, or in menopause, I think this book is so helpful!! As women, we are taught that our complex reproductive system and hormones make us unpredictable and “moody,” and it is out of our control. Consider this book a comprehensive education and rebuttal to these lies. Weschler celebrates the amazing things about women’s bodies and encourages you to get to know yours better.

The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill by Julie Klassen

I discovered Julie Klassen this past year, and I think I’ve read all of her current novels already 🙂 If you’re looking for a modern day Jane Austen with a little more mystery, I can’t recommend Klassen enough. This is the first book in her most recent series “Tales from Ivy Hill” and I love her character development and the promise of unveiling secrets throughout.

Water from My Heart by Charles Martin

Another author I recently found and have eagerly read all of his titles my library has. Martin’s character development and descriptive writing are unmatched. So far, in each one of his books I have read, I adore the characters and am so sad when the book ends!! This book is about far reaching consequences, seeking forgiveness, and the rising after the pain. Other Martin favorites – When Crickets Cry and Unwritten (although all his have been so good!).

The Cookie Cure: A Mother-Daughter Memoir of Cancer and Cookies by Susan and Laura Statchler

A sweet yet realistic look at the devastation of a cancer diagnosis, and a celebration of the strength and fight to live. The summary of this book — there’s nothing quite like a mother’s love. I know this firsthand and couldn’t help but relate to the authors’ beautiful relationship.

Fall Releases I’m Looking Forward To:

Indestructible by Allison Fallon — preordered this one after this incredible conversation with the author
The Clockmaker’s Daughter by Kate Morton — anything Morton writes, I’m reading! Excited for her latest!
Remember God by Annie F. Downs — another preorder; if you’re not listening to Annie’s podcast, please do!
The Ministry of Ordinary Spaces by Shannon Martin — Martin’s second book, looking forward to it after loving her first – Falling Free
The Wondering Years by Knox McCoy – Knox is the co-host of two of my favorites podcasts – “The Popcast with Knox and Jamie” and “The Bible Binge.” If his book debut is half as funny as he and Jamie are on air, it will be a must read!

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What have you been reading lately?

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All book reviews/what I’m reading lists: READ

—>This is a link-up with Modern Mrs. Darcy – find more great books to add to your TBR list by reading other bloggers’ posts here <—