Anyone else lunging toward spring, desperate for sunshine and warmth and flowers? We are nearly there, friends, and as I shake off the winter doldrums, perhaps the only aspect I’ll miss from the most frigid of seasons is the coziness of reading. You know what I’m saying—hands wrapped around a mug of something hot and delicious, feet snuggled in a pair of actual reading socks, a super soft blanket, and a really good book. Sigh. On reflection, I read a stack of fabulous books this winter and I’m here to share six of my favourites with you right now…
“There are many little ways to enlarge your world. Love of books is the best of all.” – Jacqueline Kennedy
I concur, Jacqueline. And I have quite a variety for you—hopefully, something will catch your eye and you’ll add it to your book stack. I’ve included my Amazon affiliate links on the titles in case you want to grab a copy (full disclosure here) which means I get a tiny commission while you pay the regular price for any of the books. Actually, some are currently on sale! Here we go:
MEET ME IN MONACO by Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb (historical biographical fiction)
A talented, sophisticated young French perfumer and a loveable rogue ex-army English photographer were the most unlikely match—but their paths crossed and hearts entwined, thanks to the kindness of iconic actress, Grace Kelly. In this beautiful historic fiction set in 1950s Cannes, Sophie and James navigate complicated pasts and uncertain futures after chance encounters with Grace during her whirlwind romance with Prince Rainier of Monaco. Friendship, love, and tragedy all play their part in this delicious novel, which leaves you longing to take a trip to the south of France, and befriend your very own Grace Kelly!
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THE MAGNOLIA STORY by Chip & Joanna Gaines (biography)
I finally read it! As a huge fan of Joanna and Chip and all things Magnolia, it’s no surprise that I thoroughly enjoyed reading their story. From how they met, their early married years, financial struggles, taking chances, balancing a family, right up until their big break on TV—it’s all fascinating. Their humble honesty and deep love for one another shine through the pages, along with Chip’s signature humour. I found it inspiring and refreshing: a devoted couple of incredibly hard workers raising a family and following where God leads them. I thoroughly recommend this book.
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TOLD YOU TWICE by Kristen Heitzmann (Christian romantic suspense)
Kristen has been one of my favorite Christian authors for years, and this one did not disappoint! I would recommend reading book 1 in the series first for a complete picture, but it’s not essential. Artist Alexis Murphy seems to always fall for the wrong men—until she finds her “perfect on paper” guy, Jeff, and they choose to plan a personalized “Grace Evangeline” wedding. However, when gorgeous actor Bo Corrigan catches her eye, everything changes. Trapped in a web of destruction and danger, their lives are on the line as Bo’s past catches up with him. Full of tension, drama, and heartache, this Christian romantic suspense is a must-read.
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ADORNING THE DARK by Andrew Peterson (memoir/ Christian non-fiction)
This engaging book about “Thoughts on Community, Calling, and the Mystery of Making” is like a cup of encouragement! Part memoir, part handbook for artists of any description, Andrew Peterson draws from his personal experiences as a singer-songwriter and author with honesty, humor, and grace. He delves into the mystery of creating, the gift of community, the importance of perseverance, and so much more. Although this is an absolute gift for those in music or writing spheres, Adorning The Dark is beautifully written for all “creatives”—that is, for everyone!
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AN AMERICAN MARRIAGE by Tayari Jones (literary fiction)
Roy and Celestial are a newlywed African-American couple on the cusp of an exciting life together—he as a young executive, she as an artistic doll-maker. When Roy is arrested and then imprisoned for a crime he did not commit, their love is tested to the limit. A raw, pain-filled story of love, deceit, hope, secrets, and injustice—this well-written book had me hooked from the beginning.
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THE AMBASSADOR’S DAUGHTER by Pam Jenoff (historical fiction)
“If you can’t let go of that fear of making the wrong decision, you will never be able to take the chances you must take to live life fully.” In the aftermath of WWI, Margot Rosenthal is in Paris with her father, a German diplomat, biding her time before returning to her wounded fiancé in Berlin. Unsure of her future, Margot strikes up unlikely alliances—including Georg, a handsome naval officer who causes her world to shift as she questions her loyalties. Lies, pain, trust, and love, all come into play as the fascinating story unfolds.
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I hope this inspires you to curl up with a good book in these final days of winter. As always, I love to hear what you are reading right now—or what you enjoyed recently. Do leave me some recommendations in the comments!
Happy reading,
P.S. If you are looking for something to read hot off the press, my latest Christian romantic suspense The Orphan Beach is now available in paperback and ebook! Read all about it HERE!
Linking up with some fabulous encouragers. Check them out:
