As 2023 winds down, I find myself reflecting on a year rich in literary adventures. From Christian fiction to sweet romance, my journey through books this year has been nothing short of inspiring. Here's a glimpse into my year of reading, one page at a time.
My year kicked off with a deep dive into the works of Mandi Blake and Liz Isaacson, immersing myself in tales of love, faith, and resilience. Titles like "Truth is a Whisper" and "Hope for the Hero" not only entertained but also resonated with my own aspirations as a writer.
In February, I explored 'A Thousand Tomorrows' by Karen Kingsbury, a deeply moving story that intertwines love and challenges in a way that touches the heart. This book, which has also been adapted into a TV show, showcases Kingsbury's talent for crafting emotionally resonant narratives that speak to the struggles and joys of life.
I read the first three books in Kimberly Rae Jordan's Halverson series. This body of work masterfully combines elements of faith, romance, and personal growth. I was captivated by the authentic characters and the seamless blend of inspirational themes with real-life issues."
I also discovered "The Veronica Swift Mysteries" by Ember Mae, with its blend of humor and light suspense, was a delightful departure from my usual reads. Ronnie and her friends are very relatable characters. I laughed out loud and rooted for each individual character in her friend group.
June: A Month of Reflection and Discovery. June brought a shift in my reading as I continued exploring Liz Isaacson's heartfelt stories. "7th Sergeant" and "8th Second Ride" were particularly memorable, blending romance with the rugged charm of cowboy life. A Texas girls dream. Right?
September-November I read the memoir by Jill Duggar "Counting the Cost" with its thought-provoking themes.
As someone who use to watch the show hearing her story was sad on one hand while empowering on the other as she let her voice be heard.
Then I listened to Brittany Spears memoir called "The woman in me."Her journey, as articulated in the book, resonated with themes of empowerment and self-discovery, offering a unique perspective on the complexities of fame, personal struggles, and growth. It was a poignant reminder of the courage it takes to find and embrace one's true self amidst the chaos of the external world."
Needing to lighten the mood after two wonderful but very emotionally charged memoirs I moved back to cozy mystery with the cozy mystery "Death on the Range" by Nikki Haverstock, this was a book set at an archery range and I have heard Nikki talk about her days competing in archery. [She has a second YouTube channel where she discusses reality TV, a guilty pleasure of mine.] She is a very knowledgeable woman about the sport. Being someone who knew nothing about the sport she described everything in such detail I could visualize it all well.
Finally in the month of celebration I wrapped up the year on a light and joyful note with Meg Easton's "The Christmas Clause, a holiday hockey romance that included the sweetest moments between the main female character and not just the love interest but his hockey playing tough guy friends.
Catelyn Meadows Santa Radio Trilogy
was a delightful escape into a world where the magic of Christmas radiates through every page. Meadows' ability to weave heartwarming tales of love, hope, and holiday cheer was truly enchanting. Each book in the trilogy brought its own unique charm, making the entire series a memorable part of my year-end reading experience."
Impact and Reflections: Beyond the PagesEach book I read this year left an imprint on me. They were companions during quiet moments and mirrors reflecting my own experiences and aspirations. The stories of love, faith, and overcoming obstacles echoed my personal journey as a writer and a mother.
Conclusion: A Year Well-Read
As I turn the final page of 2023, I feel grateful for the worlds I've explored and the lessons learned. This year in books has been a testament to the power of stories in shaping our lives and perspectives.
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