We Hope for Better Things

We Hope for Better Things by Erin Bartels

Thanks to Erin Bartels, debut author, of this wonderful read I had a very Merry Christmas enjoying this great story.  A story that spans 1860's to present day following three leading ladies all somehow related: Mary from the Civil War era, Nora from the 1960s and Elizabeth from present day. he story takes place in either Detroit, MI or Lapeer County, MI.  Elizabeth is a journalist who has been asked to transport some photos to Nora who lives in Lapeer County- her family home.  Elizabeth has also been asked to "get a story" on Nora's past, but in order to learn of Nora's past you have to first start with Mary.  

This historical fiction highlights what occurred in the North during the Civil War.  It shed light on the fact that all Northerners didn't support emancipation or welcome African Americans being treated equal.  Nora's story takes place during "riots of Detroit" era.  Nora falls in love with an African American and this love isn't fully accepted by either family.  

Elizabeth is trying to make a name for herself in journalism, but she gets caught in a story that doesn't end well for her integrity as a journalist.  She leaves Detroit to go and visit her great-aunt Nora who is living by herself ad starting to show possible signs of dementia.  

This story was really engaging and I felt like I was reading a historical fiction mystery.  The mystery was figuring out how all three of these women from different eras were connected.  I love when stories flash back and forth between time periods.  I appreciated that Erin titled each chapter the specific year and place the story was taking place.  However, at times I struggled with keeping straight who was who.  That was the only negative with the story- keeping straight where I was and whose story I was reading.  Hence, I gave Erin's debut novel 4 stars and look forward to reading other books by this author.  

So grateful to be sent this book to review by Revell a division of Baker Publishing Group.  

November Reads

One more month of reading in 2018.  I hit 108 books in November and am looking forward to some new goals for 2019.  Before I get ahead of myself here are November reads. 

Still Me by Jojo Moyes

Me Before You #3- I listed to this book and really enjoyed it- 5 stars.  The audio actress had the nicest English accent.  I found this book , third in the series, to fulfill my reading needs.  Louis finds herself in NYC as an assistant to a wealthy married woman.  The story is multi layered and went along smoothly.  Highly recommend this book for someone looking for a love story/starting over story/finding oneself story.  

The Endless Beach by Jenny Colgan

Another audiobook for the month- 4 stars.  Part 2 of the Seaside Bakery story.  Flora and Joel's relationship is unfolding.  Other relationships are growing too. I like how her books are romance with an edge.  I'm so glad I found Jenny Colgan's books. 

The Minimalist Home by Joshua Becker

Previously  posted.  Go to:  http://imchattynatty.blogspot.com/2018/11/the-minimalist-home.html

to see the post in depth.  I gave it 3 stars.  Thanks to @WaterBrookMultnomah #Partner for sending me this book to read and review.  

The Pearl that Broke Its Shell by Nadia Hashimi

4 star read- book club read for the month.  I like the way the author went back and forth between two women's stories.  Rahima, more present day and Shekiba, Rahima's great aunt, living in the past.  Both women oppressed and struggling, although living generations apart.  They are oppressed by their religion, men, culture and their families.  I thought the ending was abrupt, but otherwise thought it was a well written story- sad at times.  Sometimes I just can't do "sad" over and over. 

 

Dash and Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn

Really fun story which spans the week around Christmas.  I gave it 4 stars.    Lily and Dash, the main characters,  meet through a red notebook left in a bookstore.  As the title states the book is made up of dares.  The story is a mix of mystery and romance on a YA level.  Fun read and listen.  This is the first in the series and  I will be looking forward to the next book.  

Yoga Mind: Journey beyond the physical, 30 days to enhance your practice and revolutionize your life from the inside out by Suzan Colon

This book is proof that some good things come from social media.  I first learned about Suzan Colon from her Instagram feed @suzancolon.  She had an offer to read the first chapter of the book.  If you liked it she encouraged you to order the book.  Well the first chapter hooked me.  The way in which she introduced different yoga philosophy topics/words and her writing being personal made this a 5 star read for me.  I thought I'd be reading about daily yoga poses to practice, instead I read a book about how to incorporate breathing, meditation, and general thoughts, processes, or changes in my thinking to improve my daily living.  The daily prompts are perfect because they are doable in our fast paced lives.  This is a needed read for anyone feeling a little overwhelmed with life these days.  It would make a great Christmas gift.  

All Your Perfects by Colleen Hoover

I can't say much or I'll give away the story.  t is a story about love, friendship, marriage, struggle in real life and the importance of communication.  I enjoyed the author's writing and the way she structured the story.  One chapter named "Now" the next chapter "Then" and so it went back and forth throughout the book.  Part of the books made me tear up.  Other parts were humorous and reminded me of the power of "newness" in a relationship.  If you like a good story pick this one up.  

The Minimalist Home

The Minimalist Home by Joshua Becker

This is a pretty thorough, yet quick, view of how to work through your home in cleaning, sorting, and getting rid of the clutter. I thought it gave a good overview of how to go about the process in a step by step process via specific rooms in the house and even moved to garage and yard tidying. I liked the personal stories and would have liked more from the author on his own personal story of becoming a minimalist. I think this book makes it seem less overwhelming to dive into working on becoming a minimalist home. 

At times the writing seemed dry to me and again the personal perspective would have added some "feeling" to the writing. I thought one of the best parts of the book was the last two chapters "A Small Suggestion" and "This Changes Everything". I also thought the Minimalist Maintenance Guide was a great reminder of how not to fall back into the trap of clutter, buying too much, and thinking your wants are needs. 

Throughout the book there were some great lines. Here are a few that struck me.

pg 17- "Learn how to keep only those things that have a purpose that aligns with your life purpose." 

pg 30- "Never organize what you can discard."

pg 168 - " Today is the day to rid yourself of anything that distracts from your best life."

Thanks to @WaterBrookMultnomah #Partner for sending me this book to read and review. 

October Reads

Last night I was at a basketball game and a friend asked me how many books I read a year.  I told him that my goal for this year was 100 and I had just passed that goal with my October reading- 101 books read.  He said something to the effect of "you must read all the time".  My answer was it's my therapy.  He responded, "it's a way to escape". I agree with the escape, but it is even more.  It is in some ways a way to improve myself through my interest in self-help books.  It is away to learn about history through my love of historical fiction.  Lastly, its a way to believe in perseverance, friendship, family, relationship and love- all through reading both nonfiction, fiction, poetry and good old YA/Children's books. 

Life is sometimes hard from a personal level- challenges of daily living (wife, mom, friend, daughter roles), professional stress (feeling like I'm not making a difference or helping patients get better), and then the bigger picture- these are the things that have been sometimes halting me in living in contentment this past year: politics, gun violence, violence, racism, immigration (those that don't want to welcome), religious questions- the big one "where is God" in all this crazy/chaotic/messy/sad life.

So I read.  I read to model reading as a way to educate myself to my kids.  I read to find some peace in this sometimes broken world.  I read to connect with others.  It never fails to amaze me how I can find myself in conversation with friends/strangers about the books I read or want to read.  It is I believe a way we all could become more connected.  Maybe this could be the answer to the great division our country seems to be experiencing.  So as always- thanks to those who read my blog posts about the books I've read.  I always love to hear comments/feedback/opinions about what you think about my "reads". 

A Place for Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza

This was the Bookies read for our October book club.  I didn't enjoy it- 2 stars.  I found the writing style hard to follow- which is unusual for me- as I normally enjoy the time travel of back and forth among time periods in a book.  However, this book has time travel changes multiple times within a chapter and I felt like I was distracted in trying to keep up with figuring out what time period it was in, instead of actually paying attention to the story.

The story primarily takes place in California.  A story of an American Muslim family.  Main characters Layla, Babb, Amar, Hada and Huss make up this family.  The story covers family life, impact of culture and religion within the family, friendship and love.  I struggled with the patriarchy in the family, subservient nature  the women of the family were supposed to follow and just overall wasn't connected with any of these characters.  

As with book clubs around the world some of my Bookies didn't agree with me and really enjoyed this book- again a reminder that we all take different things from our reading experience.  

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

Overall too much hype about this book.  I liked it, but thought it too predictable- 3 stars.  Hannah Baker commits suicide (Not a give away as you find it out within first pages of book).  The book follows tapes that 13 different people will listen to explaining what part of her story/suicide they played in.  I think it is a good read for Junior High and High school students.  Stories like this get people talking about suicide, mental health, bullying, rape and sexual assault.  I listened to this book on audio and enjoyed it.  Felt like I was listening to a play/movie.  

It's All Under Control: A journey of letting go, hanging on, and finding a peace you almost forgot was possible by Jennifer Dukes Lee

This was another book I took a lot from- 4 pages of notes and several quotes added to my "quote book".  I'd describe this book as a Christian "self-help" book.  How to identify and work on one's control issues, how to work on quieting your life, figure out some of the purpose/plan of one's life, and presence in one's life. 

Jenny does a a great job of introducing her own struggles with God's plan, control issues and figuring out who she is.  I loved how she opened with the following in her intro...

pg xiii "She has lived by fear, instead of by faith.  She worries about things more than she prays about them.  She wants to let go and she doesn't.  Can someone show her where to start? This is her life.  She wants to live it.  She is me.  And maybe she is you too."

A couple of more to good not to share...

pg 13 " I see how you never say no because you can't handle the ideas of disappointing anyone."

pg 36 "We manage our lives instead of living them."

pg 145 "When frustration comes, remember this: The most important work you ever do might out live you."    I took this one to heart in the form of parenting/raising our children.  

pg 153 " A quiet space exposes truth."

4 stars read.

The Year of the Dog by Grace Lin

Great book to read with my 5th grader.  3 stars for this adult- I think she would give it 4.

Pacy and her 2 sisters and their parents live in New Hartford, NY.  The story starts with the Chinese New Year... The Year of the Dog.  It ends with the Chinese New Year.  The story looks at Pacy's present day, but also flashes back to some stories about her parents and grandparents.  Pacy goes by Grace at school and much of this book is about finding new friends, and figuring out who Pacy/Grace is .  My daughter really enjoyed it.  

The Masterpiece by Fiona Davis

Fiona Davis is one of my new found authors this past year.  I am so glad I found her.  She does an amazing job of interweaving two stories into one.  This one stars Virginia, from early 1970's, who is recently divorced, single mom, raising her daughter who has recently dropped out of her freshman year of college.  Virginia has found a job working at the Grand Central Terminal.  During her job she discovers the previous rooms that housed the Grand Central Art School.  Enter Clara Darden, an art teacher, from the 1920's who taught at the art school.  Clara is an illustrator and trying to break into the art world.  Meanwhile flash forward and Virginia is coming to terms with her place of employment being at risk of extinction as the Grand Central Terminal is likely going to end up being bought and converted into a high rise condo building (true story).  How Clara's story influences Virginia's story will be found out for those who chose to read this great book- which I gave 4 stars.  

A Sparkle of Silver by Liz Johnson

I had already posted this review.  Here's that link for those who missed it: http://imchattynatty.blogspot.com/2018/10/a-sparkle-of-silver-by-liz-johnson.html

Thanks again Revell, division of Baker Publishing Group for sending me this book to review.  

The Red Ribbon by Lucy Adlington

5 stars read! This was a new view of a part of historical fiction I love reading about- WWII.  "Birchwood" is the setting for this book.  It is better known as "Auschwitz-Birkenau".  The story follows Ella  "who sews" in the the Upper Tailoring studio.  Ella is one of a few "chosen" whose job is to design clothes and sew those patterns to cloth the elite Germans, including the commandant's wife of Auschwitz- Hedwing Hoss.  The story was just another view of the wrongs that occurred to many (estimated 11 million including 1.1 million children, who died).  It is unknown how many total perished when the camp closed and prisoners were forced to walk away from "Birchwood"- death marched.  

Happily: 8 Commitments of Couples Who Laugh, Love and Last by Kevin Thompson

Another book I previously posted on.  Here is the link:  http://imchattynatty.blogspot.com/2018/10/happily.html

Again thanks to Revell, division of Baker Publishing, for sending me this book to review.  

Well that's all for October.  Looking forward to seeing what the last two months of 2018 reading have to bring.  Happy Reading!

Happily

Happily: 8 Commitments of Couples Who Laugh, Love and Last by Kevin Thompson

Thanks to Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, for sending me this book to review.  I give this book 3.5 stars.  It is a book about marriage and what needs to be done in order to work on marriage to keep it together.  I really enjoyed the beginning of the book as I felt much of the material about marriage was applicable to my life and actually many of the topics could be used in regard to friendships too.  Each chapter is a specific topic and then followed by questions at the end of the chapter to think about and journal on by yourself or with your spouse.  For example, Happily Embrace the Hurt  chapter is about just that- marriage isn't always fun, love, happiness.  There will be some hurt involved.  

pg 56- One of the guarantees of love is loss.

pg 57- To say "I do" is not only vowing to love but agreeing to hurt.

The answer to this "hurt" is "appreciation".  He feels appreciation is vital aspect of marital satisfaction.  

I started to not be in total agreement within the last chapter or two.  I have friends and colleagues that are men and I never think twice about talking to them, hanging out with them and not having my husband present.  The author wrote in regard to "practicing the commitment" ... pg 178 " For example, we won't eat alone with a person of the opposite sex, we won't ride along in a car with a person of the opposite sex, we will share passwords on social media accounts." These "rules" are his and his wife's, but it just made me think there is a lack of trust if you have to have these types of rules.  Not the way I would choose to be committed to my marriage.  Really some good points just the ending was a little not "Me".  

A Sparkle of Silver by Liz Johnson

A Sparkle of Silver by Liz Johnson

This is one of Liz Johnson's Georgia Coast Romance novels. I had never read a book by her and was excited for a beach read while traveling to sunny Newport Beach California.   I enjoyed the two main characters Millie (Camilla) and Ben. Their personalities were complimentary and played off each other well throughout the story. Millie- struggling granddaughter trying to take care of her Grandma Joy, finds work at local Chateau- historical house- working as what I think best could be described as an actress on the "grounds" and actress of tours in the historical home. Ben is working three jobs: history professor, librarian, and security at the Chateau. His need for three jobs is to make amends for past "wrongs". These two meet and find that their is a treasure on the grounds of the Chateau that could help them both solve their financial problems. Not a shocker they don't just team up as "friends". 

The beginning of this book I struggled with - I felt like the writing and story line were disjointed. Halfway through I enjoyed this story much more and found it a good read.

Thank you to Revell Books, division of Baker Publishing Group, for sending me this book to review. 

September Reads

September was a pretty heavy reading month for me.  It, as you will see, was pretty diverse in genres.  Some of these books I already have posted on as I was sent them to review by different publishers.  I will just give a brief recap here- if you want to read more look to older posts.  As always, love to hear what you think- maybe you have read some of these...

I Found You by Lisa Jewell

5 stars on this book.  Lisa Jewell is a new found author, to me, that I really enjoy!  Her books stay with me throughout the day when reading them.  In this book Alice finds a man on the beach who doesn't know who he is or what he's doing there.  The story unfolds from this initial encounter.  However, it is not just Alice's story or the missing man, but Lily's story too.  Lily's husband is missing.  They have been married for two weeks and he doesn't come home one night from work.  Yep, You guessed it their stories are connected.  Lisa does an amazing job unfolding the  story within a story.  Great Read!

The Brave Art of Motherhood: Fight Fear, Gain Confidence, and Find Yourself Again

by Rachel Marie Martin

4 stars.  I was sent this ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) to review in prep for it's release.  I was not disappointed and I took several things away from this read that I think will potentially change my life.  Go here to read the full review.  http://imchattynatty.blogspot.com/2018/09/the-brave-art-of-motherhood.html

The Dinner List by Rebecca Serle

5 dinner guest for Sabrina's birthday dinner.  Her friend Jessica has arranged for the 5 guests, including herself, to be at the restaurant upon Sabrina's entrance.  A little fantasy plays into this story as some of the guests are deceased, ie Audrey Hepburn.  The guests all bring a purpose to Sabrina's life, 30 year old,  story.  The chapters flipped time periods every other.  One was written as present day,/dinner time with actual time as the title of the chapter.  The following chapter was written from Sabrina's past.  Back and forth patterns creates a story of life, love, disappointment, friendship and family.  The author keeps you guessing what the purpose of the  guest are.  I liked the twist that came halfway through the story.  Despite the back and forth time changes I felt the flow of the book was smooth.  4 stars.

Watch Me Disappear by Janelle Brown

Audiobook- 2 stars.  Not one of my favorites.  I liked the premise- mom goes missing off Desloate Trail in CA.  Husband to Billy, missing mom, is ready to move on after Billy has been missing for a year.  He's bitter that he's been left by her and he is failing at keeping things together: finances, house and parenting their teenage daughter Olive.  Olive meanwhile, a junior in high school, is having her own struggles- figuring out where she belongs, friend issues, and the biggest issue is she thinks her mom is still alive.  Sounds good right? Writing and where the story line goes and the way it unfolds just didn't intrigue me.  

The Hidden Staircase by Carolyn Keene

I read this book with my daughter.  Its funny how when you get old a book you loved as a kid just doesn't seem to have the same merit as an adult.  My daughter liked it.  I felt the wording was very antiquated and made me nostalgic for the nights growing up my dad would read to me and my sister before bedtime.  3 stars for the adult- think my daughter would give it 4 stars. 

Thirsty for More: Discovering God's Unexpected Blessings in a Desert Season by Allison  Allen

This was another book that was sent to me by a publisher to review.  I think I pinned to much hope in this book before even opening the first few pages. I've been struggling a little with my faith of late- some big questions like "God, why do you let terrible things happen?  Why is the USA so divided and showing little respect, love, kindness to each other?  Why has a sermon not spoken to me in months?" You get the picture.  Well this book didn't help me out.  If you want to see the full review.  Here is the previous post:  http://imchattynatty.blogspot.com/2018/09/thirsty-for-more-left-me-thirsty.html

2 stars and disappointed.  

Love & Other Train Wrecks by Leah Konen

I had been in a little reading slump with my nonfiction book prior to this one and really was needing to enliven my reading life.  So when I'm in the "reading dumps" I normally go to YA.  This book did the trick.  It stars a girl and a boy who meet on a train.  From that meeting their story unfolds and I was impressed with the twist at the end.  Can't say much more- I'd give the story away.  If you are looking for a book to enliven your reading life this one's a keeper.  5 stars.

Silencing Insecurity: Believing God's Truth About You by Donna Gibbs

Another book sent to me to review.  You'll find the previous post here:   http://imchattynatty.blogspot.com/2018/09/silencing-insecirty-by-donna-gibbs.html

3.5 stars- couldn't give it a higher star rating because I felt it was written to such a limited audience- Christian women.  Think this topic infiltrates many women and men's lives and think if it had been written for broader audience then I would have enjoyed it more.  

Of Mess and Moxie by Jen Hatmaker

Audiobook 4 stars.  Great on audio- read by Jen, herself.  This is the second book I've read by her and I enjoyed this one so much.  This one spoke to me and where I'm at in my life.  She writes with such an authentic voice it is truly believable and genuine.  Some of the book I was laughing out loud and some of the book I wanted to cry.  Her chapters are diverse and cover many facets of a woman's life.  

Girl, Wash your Face: Stop Believing the Lies about Who You are so You can Become Who You Were Meant to Be by Rachel Hollis

5 stars.  Jen Hatmaker has been doing a series on her podcast "For the Love" which is currently "For the Love of Books".  At the end of the podcast she asks the author/guest "What book is saving your life right now?"- Well this is the book that is saving my life right now.  I can't stop thinking about or talking about this book.  I've become a Rachel Hollis fan over a two day course- which took me to finish this book.  I've signed up for her  "last 90 days challenge"- which I'll post on later.  What made this book work for me is how darn honest she was in the writing and telling of her story.  The chapters are titled as "The Lie..." with a statement following that she has told her self.  For instance, "The Lie: I'm Bad at Sex" or "The Lie: I don't know how to be a mom."  She then debunks this "lie" and I felt like a lot of her "lies" were my "lies" also.  She's got some great ideas on how to move forward in life, not forgetting yesterday, but not dwelling on it and looking to what is your best today and tomorrow.  This book seriously built a fire under my butt to make some changes that I've been wanting and dreaming about making.  Here are some of my favorite quotes from the book.

xii "Your life is up to you." 

xvii " It's a life long journey, but I rest in the knowledge that every day I'm learning and growing, which lets me feel at peace with myself."

pg 8 "You become who you surround yourself with." - only taken me about 42 years to get this.

pg 113 "I think embracing  the chaos might be the path to finding peace."

pg 146 " Someone else's opinion of you is none of your business."

pg 158 " I don't believe everything happens for a specific reason, but I do believe it's possible to find purpose- even in the absence of explanation."

You guys it is just such GOOD stuff!  

Happy Reading Friends.  

Silencing Insecirty by Donna Gibbs

Silencing Insecurity: Believing God's Truth About You By Donna Gibbs

 

This book would be at the top of my reading list if I was a part of a Christian women's bible study group or "growth group" within a Christian setting. Donna Gibbs has done a wonderful job of really writing what I think so many women these days are dealing with- insecurity in self.

The book is not just a book, but really a study guide/workbook with some great question sections and verses of the Bible that tie in the themes of each chapter. There was a lot of underlining that went on while I read this book as so many great lines/quotes/ideas spoke to me. Here are a few:

pg. 36 "The problem lies when approval and rejection are given control in our lives. Being overly attached to the approval or rejection of others brings destruction and opens the door for a thief."

Pg55 "Roles will inevitably change. If we're attached to those roles, we'll fell empty and purposeless in their absence...". Great reminder of how if we live life based on roles we may struggle with what happens when that role ends: kids grow up and leave the house, jobs change, relationship with friends/family members change, etc.

pg 75" psychological pain related to insecurities is at the core of all the other struggles we face."

pg 90 " The irony is that our strengths can become our biggest messes."

pg 145 " The formula for wholeness is more like building blocks than it is a formula. Submission of Thoughts leads to Stability of Emotions leads to Purpose in Action culminating in Freedom from Insecurity".

Donna does a great job interweaving Bible passages, Bible stories and Christian perspective throughout her writing. It flowed nicely and didn't feel forced. Despite all the good stuff in this well written book I give this book 3.5 stars as I kept on thinking throughout the reading "what if you aren't a Christian woman"? She addresses this question in a half page, which I appreciate her being up front with in seeing that a reader of her book may not hold the same religious beliefs or any at all. Her answer is spot on with her belief system which she should be applauded for standing by. She writes, "Don't think because you are not a Christian that this discussion doesn't apply to you. It does. Perhaps the enemy is just successful in separating you from God." Totally honest Donna answer, but I found it to be exclusive and not something I personally agree with. So I don't think this book will be at the top of my Jewish, Agnostic, Atheist Friend's TBR, however it would be a great read for any Christian "sister".

Thanks to Revell Publishing a division of Bake Publishing Group for sending me this book to read and review.

Thirsty for more... left me thirsty.

 

Thanks to Revell, division of Baker Publishing, for sending me this book to review. 

I was really looking forward to diving into this book as I have been feeling, myself, like I’m in a spiritual desert. The subtitle- discovering God’s unexpected blessings  in a desert season sounded like exactly what I needed. 

The author had some good points that spoke to me. Here are a few...

Pg 29 “Surrender. Let go. These old things don’t serve you anymore.”

Pg 81 “endings not only are guaranteed but also can be for our good- if we allow them to change the way we live our now. “

Pg 83 “But still, mothering remains a holy challenge- one that requires leaning into the grace of Christ...Remember the closest relationships. Remember the mothering. In the en, this will be the only question on your lips: How well did I love those closest to me?”

In general I think I had too high of expectations for this book. It just didn’t seem to work for me. The flow of the author’s writing and the interwoven scripture readings just didn’t give me a lot to fulfill my needs. She skipped around from various times in her life she was in the desert spiritually. Just when I thought I’d get an answer to my own questions about what one can do at those times the writing would switch to another “desert” example or a bible verse(s). I would lose connection and hence disrupt my reading flow. 

August Reads

I'm finishing listening to an audiobook right now that I'm really not enjoying.  I got too far into it to stop listening and now it just feels like it is "back ground" noise.  It has taken me a long time to be OK with stopping reading/listening to a book.  There are just too many books out there I want to read- really my To Be Read list/pile is OUT OF CONTROL.  So as I listen to this not great book I'm writing you about some pretty great reads (maybe one or two bad ones).  Enjoy!

Bring Me Back by B.A. Paris

WOW... normally I can figure out psychological mysteries, but this one had me guessing until the end.  5 star read.

Layla and Finn are a couple.  They have a fight at a rest stop in France.  Finn leaves the car to "cool off" and when he returns she's gone.  Fast forward 12 years and Finn is now living with and soon to get married to Layla's sister Ellen.  Great characters, story line and best yet I bought into the story.  Don't want to give too much away.  Added bonus Russian nesting dolls make an appearance throughout the book- I've always wanted a set of these. I'll definitely be reading more by B.A. Paris.

Love and Ruin by Paula McLain

3 stars- audiobook.  This is a book about Hemingway and his third wife Martha ("Marty"- journalist and author).  I loved "The Paris Wife" a story about Hemingway and his first wife Hadley.  (Side note if I had another kid and it was a girl I'd fight hard for her to be named Hadley).  I didn't enjoy this book as much.  I thought it lacked the strong character connections of this wife, Marty, as I felt with his first wife Hadley.  Still a very interesting lady.  I like the way Paula knows how to write historical fiction.  I did really enjoy the end of the book during WWII (big surprise).  I would have liked more about this part of the story for "Marty", and possibly even enjoyed more story about what happens to "Marty" post Hemingway.  

The Secret Life of Violet Grant by Beatriz Williams

I am so into historical fiction about leading ladies who are strong, empowering, heroines.  This book was a steal- purchased for $6 at Half Price Book.  Great story!  4 star review (but I keep wanting to give it 5- not sure why I didn't).  This author's style of writing reminded me of Fiona Davis' style.  The chapters in the book take turns going from one leading lady from current era  (mid 1960s) and the next chapter leading with another leading lady from past era (1914- pre WWI).  Vivian, 1960's leading lady, is a journalist and trying to become a respected writer in a male dominated 1960's world.  Vivian receives a suitcase in her mailbox from Zurich of long ago, from an unknown aunt- 1914 leading lady- Violet.  Vivian knew little of her Aunt Violet and their stories intertwine and mirror each other throughout the book. Great read!

 

The Cafe by the Sea By Jenny Colgan

4 stars audiobook.  Such a fun summer read/listen.  Loved the story.  Loved the main character.  she was a typical Jenny Colgan leading lady- "woman in flux".  Flora is not having the best of luck with guys, and is obsessed with her boss.  She returns to her hometown of Mure, per request of her boss working as a paralegal for a client of theirs. This client is demanding and making waves in her little hometown as he is trying to take over land and change the feel of her hometown.  She has some baggage hanging onto her in regard to her last time in Mure- her mother's funeral.  She returns to her family home where her brothers and father are trying to survive.  Among the family reunion she is also trying to do her job, which is challenging in many ways.  As Jenny always is able to do she brings into this story food, family, friends, and love.  Good beach read!

The Daily Question for You and Your Child by Waterbrook 

I already highlighted this book earlier as it was a copy sent to me for review by Waterbrook publishing.  I was very lucky to ask to review this book.  It has been a lovely addition to our dinner time discussion.  Even my 8th grade is enjoying answering the daily questions each page asks.  It will be fun to see if our answers change over the years- three years of questions (same one asked- separate spots to answer the question for each year).  Would be a great memento of raising our children and would be a great gift for anyone getting ready to have a kid or someone who already has one.  

7: An Experimental Mutiny Against Excess by Jen Hatmaker

A christian look at our excessive, over the top living. I gave this book 4 stars.   Jen Hatmaker and her friends (aka Council) take 7 months to participate in an "experimental mutiny against excess". Each month is focused on a different subject: clothes, spending, waste, stress, media, possessions, and food.  I really like Jen's approach.  Although not all the chapters "spoke to me".  For example, I just couldn't get into the waste chapter. Other chapters lit my heart and head on fire (possessions- motivated me to purge my closet and my kid's- several garbage bags of donated clothes later).  I also received the workbook that goes with this book and my plan was to read this book first and then start on the workbook.  I think a needed read for many of us.  She had so many great lines that spoke to me I wanted to share.

pg 4 "See I'm an extremist.  I don't learn lessons easily, subtly, or delicately...If God gives me an inch, I will take a marathon".

pg 6 "Luckily, I married Mr. Responsible who has rescued me from disaster more times than I'd like to admit."

pg 24 " I developed resistance to sermons because so many have been heard but rarely seen."

pg 28 "Ghandi's astute observation: 'I like your Christ.  I do not like your Christians.  Your Christians are so unlike your Christ."

pg 156 " Just because I can have it doesn't mean I should."

The Life Giving Leader by Tyler Reagin

Always thankful to @WaterBoorkMultnomah for sending me this book to review.  Full review can be found in earlier posts- so not going to rehash it again.  It just wasn't a book that gave me much.  I couldn't connect with this author or his writing style.  I felt like it lacked some deep dive in on ideas on how to become and authentic leader.  That is what I was looking for.  2 stars in my book.

An American Marriage by Tayari Jones

Audiobook and three stars.  Loved the way the story was written- quite a bit of it in letter writing form.  Multiple point of view and voices heard throughout the story.  I felt as if I could envision a play on stage while listening to this book.  I didn't like it because it just made me sad.  So nothing was wrong with the writing or the story, I just wanted to get it over because it depressed me.  

Roy Jr. is married to Celestial.  Unluckiness follows them into their marriage and within the first year of marriage Roy Jr. is wrongfully accused of raping a woman.  He is sent to jail and hence why the writing in letter form fits so well to the story line.  I struggled with liking Roy Jr's character as I thought he was hypocritical with his action and thoughts throughout the story. I did like Celestial and really felt for her situation.    I think this book is true to life and sometimes the truth can just bog me down in the reading process and make it not so enjoyable. 

 

The Female Persuasion by Meg Wolitzer

Greer Kadesky's life unfolds throughout this story with added sub stories and players: Faith Frank, Zee, and Corey.  I felt like this was an epic story.  Starting in high school and following Greer through to mid adult life.  It took me awhile to read this story, because I really felt like I had to read every word or I'd miss something.  Although interesting story line I sometimes felt like I had to re-read and meticulously read as not to get confused with course and people of the story.  This type of reading wears my brain out.  I did love how the story evolved, was real and at times gut wrenching.  Superb word usage in telling a coming to life story.  4 stars

A Spool of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler

2  stars audiobook.  This is our book club read for September.  Since I couldn't get the actual book I chose to listen to the audio.  It was a painful book to make through.  If the author and her editor had cut the first part of the book out I think I would have liked this book better.  Better yet if the author would have arranged the book in chronological order instead of reverse chronological order  I found the first half to be like nails on a chalkboard.  I didn't understand the purpose of the book or what the author was trying to bring forward with character development and story line.  I was disappointed, but the book did get better in 2nd and 3rd part.

Not the Boss of Us by Kay Wills Wyma 

Thanks Kay for such a needed read for this time in life I'm in. I'm giving it 4 stars.  a Thanks also to Revell a division of Baker Publishing Group for sending me this copy to review. I already posted a blog post earlier in this month about this book.  It was one of my favorite books I've received to review so far.  A needed read for anyone feeling overwhelmed with life.  See previous post for more detail on this read.

Well that is all folks.  Great month of reading and already 13 days into September reading.  It is a good reading life!

The Brave Art of Motherhood.

The Brave Art of Motherhood. Fighting Fear, Gain Confidence, And Find Yourself Again
By Rachel Marie Martin

 I think someone ( aka God) is trying to tell me something. I am a person who has tons of ideas, dreams, and goals but alas life gets in the way ( or so that is my excuse) and some of those ideas, dreams, goals don’t happen.

This book basically says no excuses. You can make it happen. If not now when? Rachel has done a truly honest job of writing an authentic book about being “brave”. She shares the ugly and hard examples of her own life’s mishaps while showing how she metamorphosed to becoming “brave”. 

There were so many great quotes that spoke to me in the reading of this book. Here are just a few..,

pg 202 

“Today is your day. 

Remember you. Celebrate your story. Show up and try. 

Live a life without excuses. Live with hope. Live with determination. 

Live with joy. Live your kids. Be a friend. Find joy. Be brave. Breathe. 

And start. 

That’s the brave art of motherhood. “

Pg178” The motto of friendship needs to be this: we don’t just stay there in the stuck with one another; we keep moving forward, believing in one another. 

Pg 58 “ Belief is rooted in what we know; it is s law in life. Faith is different. Faith is having hope in a future that does not yet exist. “

Thank you to WaterBrook and Penguin Random House LLC for sending me this book to review. WaterBrookMultnomah #Partner.

Not the Boss of Us

Not the Boss of Us: Putting OVERWHELMED in its place in a do-all, be-all world

by Kay Wills Wyma

A much needed read for me at the time of life I'm in.  I was just telling a friend the other day that I think I'm more anxious/stressed about the beginning of school year  than the kids are.  I get nervous and worried about the new schedules and new "needs" my kids will require  for their academic and extracurricular lives.  How will I get everyone where they need to be, and work, take care of the house, make meals, and have some "fun" time among all of the "have to's".  

This book definitely made me realize I'm not a lone and so many mom's/parents/kids are dealing with the character OVERWHELMED.  I really liked how OVERWHELMED was personified and a player throughout this book.  I felt the book read like a memoir and less self-help.  However, there are some great "Water Station" sections that are big on how-to's throughout the book.  

The book utilized stories and events from Kay's life to highlight how OVERWHELMED can take over or how we can take control and say "no, no, no" OVERWHELMED you won't take over.  Kay's honesty in talking about tough times for her and her children (eating disorders, depression, perfectionism, suicide) made this writing genuine.

Here are a few of my favorite lines from the book (I underlined quite a few throughout the reading of this book).  

pg 23 " We all tend to be a flesh wound away from junior high insecurities"- AMEN!!!

pg 25 "I almost always need to hear whatever I'm telling my kids."-  Again spot on, almost like she is reading my mind.

pg 129 " Because it's actually in the trying not to miss out that we so often do. There is sacred in the ordinary."

pg 194 " One of the gifts of suffering is the detachment from things that we cling to, but don't really matter."

Of note this book does intertwine Christianity, but the way Kay went about this was so easy, not forced or judgmental.  I have really been struggling with some doubts about faith of late.  There are so many things in the world happening that just bring so much suffering, arguments, divisive national state, and are just inhumane .  I have to ask ,"Where are you God in all of this?".  Well the last chapter of this book was just what I needed.  The title alone is a " aha moment".  "Rather Than Be Overwhelmed by Any Trappings of This World, Be Overwhelmed by Hope."  I'll leave you a line that really made me think it's OK to question and doubt.  

pg 209 "The doubt actually increased my faith...Doubt led her to question, which led her to seek and to search and to test which road to travel."

Thanks Kay for such a needed read for this time in life I'm in. I'm giving it 4 starts Thanks also to Revell a division of Baker Publishing Group for sending me this copy to review.  

The Life Giving Leader

The Life Giving Leader by Tyler Reagin

This book, I thought, was going to be a handbook on how to become one's truest, most "authentic" leader, and help give life to others you lead.  I knew it was going to have some Christianity and thoughts on being a Christian leader woven in. I found several lines in the book that spoke to me.  Here are just a couple of them.

pg 50 " Life-giving leadership begins with self-awareness and self-acceptance, nonnegotiable hallmarks of authentic leadership. "

pg 52 "Self-awareness is the foundation for a lifetime of leading well."

pg 59 " You will slow the flow of life if you don't learn to properly control emotions."

pg 97 "Humble leaders attract people."

pg 138 "Choosing what to prioritize serves as one of the most important elements of having a full life."

However, I just couldn't seem to connect with the author's line of writing.  I felt it lacked some deep dive ideas on how to become an authentic leader.  I just kept on feeling like I was reading some great ideas (lines like the one above), but no examples on how to accomplish the suggested subject matter. Or if there were examples I just couldn't connect with them.  The first half of the book seemed redundant to me- great one liners, but not enough meat to hook me into what the author was trying to sell.  The way Christianity was woven into the story line of this book was at times a little abrupt and felt forced.  I also felt the book had a very male, patriarchal voice, maybe I would have been more drawn into the reading if I felt more connected with the "leaders" he was addressing.  

Always thankful for the opportunity to review a book.  This book was sent to me for review by WaterBrook.  Thank you @WaterBrookMultnomah #Partner.

The Daily Question...

The Daily Question for You and Your Child: A Three Year Spiritual Journal

By WaterBrook

 

 

I was lucky enough to be sent this daily journal/question book to review by WaterBrook, #PRHpartner. @WaterBrookMultnomah #Partner

This book is a daily journal in which one question is to be answered by you and your children. It is a way to connect and sometimes stimulate conversation. 

I was a little concerned that this book/questions would be too immature for my oldest- teenager going into 8th grade. I was pleasantly surprised to find the questions are appropriate for all ages. 

My kids the first night we sat down to answer the first question in this daily journal enjoyed it so much we spent 20 more minutes going backwards an answering questions for the days prior. 

The book has a question for every day of the year and three years/cycles in which to go through the questions. It will be fun to see if the answers change with aging of them and me. I love the way this type of book utilizes writing, reading and discussion skills. This would make for a great present for friends and family.

Sad summer is ending...

It has been such a great summer all around.  I've been having so much fun I'm just now finally getting around to sharing my July "reads".  Here in no particular order are the books I read or listened to in July.  It was a month full of travel and family fun and I really thought I was going to get more reading in, but alas time with family and friends prevailed- which isn't a bad thing.

The Great Alone by Kirsten Hannah

This book was a 5 star read for me.  I stayed up until 2 a.m. to finish it and that normally speaks to a book that really has me.  It was 440 pages and I read it in 4 days despite my family and work life- another sign of a good read.

 

It is a story of struggle and adventure in Alaska's wilderness.  The Albrights (Ernt, Cora and Lenora "Leni") move to Alaska for a fresh start.  Her father is a Vietnam POW and the war has changed him and he looks to Alsaka for a new start.  Leni and her mother are brought along for the ride.  No indoor plumbing, water or electricity is what awaits them in their new home.  Luckily they are supported by the community and particularly the Harlan family who live in their own "Alaskan compound".  Family stress, domestic violence, coming of age and finding yourself, "Alaskan" prepared are some of the themes seen early within this story.  Over time the book becomes a book about survival, finding oneself and love.  I think this is some of Kristen Hannah's best writing and storytelling.  Here are a few of my favorite quotes from the book:

 

pg 10 "I need a place where I can breathe again. Sometimes I feel like I'm going to crawl out of my skin. Up there, the flashbacks and shit will stop.  I know it.  We need this."  ~ Ernt

 

pg 124 "You were supposed to be safe in your own home, with your parents. They were supposed to protect you from the dangers outside" ~ Leni





I dare you to read this book and not like it.

Little Beach Street Bakery by Jenny Colgan

My least favorite yet of her stories- three stars.  I listened to this book on audio and found it an easy read/listen.  I just couldn't get into the characters and their relationships.  The main player, protagonist, Polly, recently moved to Pollbearne (small fishing town Cornwall, England).  She is recently single and unemployed.  She decides to start baking bread to keep her mind off things and she ends up turning this baking into a new profession.  She meets some men along the way and hence their is the relationship building end of the story.  It was just OK- sorry Jenny - side note I love so many of her other books so think this one just wasn't for me. 

 

The Ensemble by Aja Gabel

A well written, four star, story about 4 people- the ensemble- a cellist, viola player, and two violin players- Daniel, Henry, Jana and Brit.  I really appreciate the honesty Aja brought to these characters and their story.  She didn't Hollywoodize (I know not a real word- :)) their lives as musicians.  They read as real, imperfect, sometimes even mean/evil people.  The inter connection and relationships among all four read true.  Aja obviously knows music and the life of musicians as that part of the story was almost a story into itself.  Topics like: music agents, competitions and performances, practice time amongst real life schedule, overuse injury due to the physicality of the profession ( I had never thought about this before).  An intriguing read.  Bonus/plus- isn't the cover just beautiful.  I just realized when writing this post that there are four flowers standing out on the cover- hence nod to the four musicians that inhabit this story.

 

 







The Road Back to You: An Enneagram Journey to Self Discovery

by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile

The Enneagram is a personality map and I feel like a big "craze" right now.  It helps a person figure out your personality type (the good, the bad, and misunderstood).  It helped me realize my positive and negative personality traits and how to celebrate/tolerate both.  Great beginner introduction to the Enneagram.  I gave it four stars.

 

 

The Girl who takes and Eye for an Eye by David Lagercrantz

Three stars audiobook.  This is the last/most recent book in the "Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" series.  It was better than the book prior to this one.  However, nothing will ever compare to the first in the series.  Lisbeth Salander is back as the main character.  I always enjoy a strong, independent, intelligent leading lady and Lisbeth Salander doesn't disappoint.  This story starts with Lisbeth Salander in prison.  This part of the story was my favorite part of the book.  I will leave you with that as I don't want to give much more away. 

 

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Great read- gave it 4 stars.  Such a real read.  So real I thought I was reading historical fiction.  Love the years the story spans (1950's to present).  Monique Grant is getting Evelyn Hugo's story and the chance of a lifetime to write the truth and biography of Evelyn Hugo and her seven husbands.  Evelyn is a Hollywood film star who also married 7 different husbands along the way.  This was our read for book club and we had good suggestion and many of the Bookies really enjoyed the story.  Very entertaining read that hits on so many tough subjects from our country's history.  You'll have to read to see if you agree with me.  

 

The War I finally Won by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

Three star audiobook.  This was the second in a series.  I so very much enjoyed the first in the series "The War that Saved my Life" that was so excited to get my listening ears on this one.  Unfortunately I just didn't enjoy it as much.  The story of Ada Smith and her brother continue during WWII.  It was a "flat" read for me.  I thought it was an easy read and appropriate junior fiction- just didn't have the same intrigue or "draw" that the first one had for me. 

 

 

 

Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur

Hard stuff in this little book of poetry.  I gave it five stars as I really didn't even feel like I was reading poetry.  (Side note- I'm not a huge poetry person or so I think, but books like this remind me there are so many different poets out there maybe I do like poetry and need to find the right poets).  Despite the hard subject matter I found the words and writing to be beautiful.  Must read for women and young female teens- probably not a bad idea for some men to pick up too.  An empowering book for high school age girls.  Pencil drawings accompany some of the poetry.  The drawings reminded me of Shel Silverstein drawings, but in a much more adult "light". 

 

 

61 Hours by Lee Child

My husband has been asking me to read a Lee Child- Jack Reacher book.  So I finally gave in and picked this one out.  It was just OK- three stars.  A little slow for my liking in regard to mystery/action story.  I felt the ending was far fetched and not very believable.  My husband said this is what Child's books and character, Jack Reacher, are known for- getting out of the unbelievable.  I enjoyed the character Jack Reacher very much just think I need to try a different story with him in it.  Just not my best pick. 

 

Well that is it.  A fun filled month of travel and many of these went along for the ride.  Love my reading life!