Home Giveaways 10 Wonderful Books (2015 Edition) and $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

10 Wonderful Books (2015 Edition) and $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

by Jamie

As many of you long time blog readers know, twice a year I post a list of great books I have read and highly recommend. See past lists here, here, here and here.  I am excited to be sharing this years winter reading list with you today! Thanks to those of you who have written in to me,  inquiring as to when the list was scheduled to be posted. I am happy  to know that so many of you enjoy these posts! I surely love putting them together. Don’t tell the recipes, but these book posts are my favorite. 🙂 Reading is such a source of joy to me, as I know it is to many of you as well. We reader-types have to stick together, you know. If you are a member of Goodreads (social media for book lovers), you can follow me by clicking here. Some of the books I read, I don’t ever end up posting about on my blog…not that they aren’t good! I just like to reserve these posts for books I’ve given 4 or 5 stars to. However, I have tried in the past year or so to rate and review almost everything I read (I know, book nerd here…I have a problem, just ask MyHandsomeHusband). You can see all of my ratings and reviews on Goodreads, by clicking here.

(No, this post is not sponsored by Goodreads) 🙂

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Also, I have added this handy picture link (above) to my side bar.  If you click on it, it will take you to a page housing all of my book recommendation lists. Once there, if you click on any of the little icons it will take you to that seasons book list. I hope you find it convenient!

Now, part of the reason I love these posts is the opportunity it gives me to hear from so many of you, and to look through your book recommendations. I have found many a treasured book in the comment section and for that, I thank you! And so, today…

…if you would like to enter the giveaway for the $50 Amazon Gift Card please leave me a comment telling me the title of one (or two or three) books that you have loved reading. It can be anything at all! The giveaway will be open from today (January 29th) to Wednesday Feb 4th at midnight. Winner will be announced on Thursday Feb 5th.

Best of luck to you! And now, without further ramblings, here is this seasons list!

My Name Is Resolute
by Nancy Turner

5 Stars

One of my favorite books of all time is “These Is My Words” by Nancy Turner. “My Name Is Resolute” is her latest novel and while I didn’t love it as much as These is my Words…it’s still really, really smack-down fabulous. I loved the main character and found her devotion to family, forgiving nature and overall growth to be very endearing and inspirational. Turner really knows how to build a strong main character! Additionally, I  loved reading about the early events leading up to the Revolutionary War. If you enjoy historical fiction and an amazing main character, give this book a whirl. It’s pretty long (almost 600 pages), but worth it.

 

 

 

 

  The Scarlet Thread
by Francine Rivers 

  4 Stars

Francine Rivers is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Every thing I’ve read by her, I end up loving and this book was no exception.

I liked the first 300 pages of this book and absolutely LOVED the last 150. There are two story lines. One about a husband and wife who  are having marital difficulties because of lack of communication and stubbornness. The other storyline is about a sweet gal who crossed  the Oregon trail in the mid 1800’s with her husband and family and the trials they experience. Both women struggle with similar issues,  though they live in vastly different time periods. I loved the imagery and meaning behind the “scarlet thread” in the book. Loved the plug  for personal conviction to God, and the ending was really fantastic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Mao’s Last Dancer
by Li Cunix 

 5 Stars

Mao’s Last Dancer is the memoir of a young Chinese peasant boy whose childhood is spent in terrible poverty, but with a loving, wonderful family. At the age of 11, he is randomly chosen by his communist government to apply for Madame Mao’s school of ballet. When he is accepted to the school he is forced to leave his family and to live at the school for 6 years, where he becomes a fabulous ballet dancer.

This book lends an amazing view into the harsh realities of communism, the tremendous value of family unity and love, and the wonderful blessings of freedom and liberty.

This is one of my favorite quotes…

“…love and treasure your wife (spouse) and children with all your heart. It doesn’t matter what happens in the world around you. As long as you have your family, everything will be all right.”

MyHandsomeHusband also read it this past year and loved it.

 

 

 

 

   City of Tranquil Light: A Novel 
   by Bo Caldwell
   5 Stars

This is a beautifully written book about a married couple who choose to live in China as Mennonite missionaries during the early 1900’s. It’s fiction, but based on the authors maternal grandparents real life experiences. I don’t know if it struck a chord with me because I have missionary work on the mind lately (my oldest son will be going on a mission this summer), or due to the amazingly strong, hard working, self-less and kind main characters who were continually striving to better their individual relationships with God and to serve him in the most difficult of situations. I also found it super interesting to learn more about pre-communist China and the culture there.

This would make a great book club read.

One of my favorite quotes…

“My life is colored by unexpected moments of grace, small awarenesses of God’s presence that speak to me of who He is as much as any mountaintop experience.”

 

 

 

 

 

   What Alice Forgot 
   by Liane Moriarty
   5 Stars

Wow, I really loved this book. The main character Alice sustains a head injury and forgets the last 10 years of her life. Her last memories are of being pregnant with her first baby, head over-hills in love with her husband and fresh with all kinds of hope for their future together. Fast forward 10 years and her life is very different than she thought it would be.

I found Alice to be funny and very endearing. I related with her crazy life in so many ways. Hectic schedule, pressure to be the perfect mom, frantically trying to balance activities, community service, PTA, serving healthy meals…we mothers put so much pressure on our selves, don’t we! This book was a wonderful reminder to me that its relationships that matter most. Not how perfectly clean a home is kept or how many team sports our kids play. It’s how we love each other that really counts. Letting go of the small stuff, spending time together, forgiving and forgetting, cherishing the amazing blessing it is to be part of a family.

I am looking at my precious people with a fresh perspective after reading this. Loved it. 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

  I’ll Be Seeing You 
  by Suzanne Hayes and Loretta Nyhan
  4 Stars

This is a charming book about two women who become pen pals during WWII. The whole story is told through their letters to each other, which I loved. It reminded me a lot of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society (one of my favorite books). I enjoyed the sisterhood, friendship and comfort these women were able to bestow on each other. The writing is clever, often funny and very endearing. A great read.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Whistling Past the Graveyard 
 by Susan Crandall
 4 Stars

This is a quick read, with a very endearing, spit-fire red head as the main character and narrator of the book. Set in the South during the 1960’s, one of the main themes is The Civil Rights Movement. But it’s also about motherly love, kindness, finding “family”, growing up and learning to recognize God’s hand in our lives. Loved it. 🙂

One of my favorite quotes…

“My daddy says that when you do somethin’ to distract you from your worstest fears, it’s like whistlin’ past the graveyard. You know, making a racket to keep the scaredness and the ghosts away. He says that’s how we get by sometimes. But it’s not weak, like hidin’…it’s strong. It means you’re able to go on.”

 

 

 

 

 

 Man’s Search for Meaning
 by Victor E. Frankl
 4 Stars

A sweet woman I met this past summer (while we chopped vegetables together at Girls Camp) recommended this book to me, when I told her my favorite book of all time was The Hiding Place. She said Man’s Search for Meaning was her favorite book, and that it was very similar to my favorite. I couldn’t help but give it a whirl. 🙂

The author is a survivor of the Holocaust, this book is his philosophical ponderings on the events that took place while he was imprisoned in a concentration camp. This is the type of book you could read over and over, finding new insights in it each time. His thoughts on the human spirit, its basic needs and ultimate quest for validation and meaning are fascinating. I think of it often.

My only complaint about this book (and the reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5) is that I wished it were told in story form. I wanted more details about what  exactly happened to his wife and parents. It read more like a text book, a study of behavior, really…which was interesting, make no mistake…but the story-lover in me wished for more in that regard. Still, a very worthwhile read.

 

 

 

 

 When Crickets Cry 
 by Charles Martin
 4 Stars

This book is overly wordy at times (I have to admit to skimming the frequent lists of Home Depot tools and painfully specific details of boat repair). It’s pretty predictable and a bit overly coincidental…however, I really ended up liking it a lot. There are parts that are absolutely beautifully written and offer the reader much “food for thought”. It’s packed with famous quotes (from Shakespeare, Hellen Keller, The Bible and others) that I enjoyed very much. I loved reading about the specifics of the human heart, how it works and what is involved in heart transplant surgery. It gave me a better appreciation for the human body and it’s amazing design. Definitely worth reading, a 4 star rating here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Because of Mr. Terupt
   by Rob Buyea
   4 Stars

This is a cute juvenile fiction book about a classroom of 5th graders and their fabulous teacher. I loved that the story was told through the eyes of 7 different kids in the class. It was insightful, heartwarming and inspirational. There were several laugh out loud moments, and many with tears as well. A good reminder to kids (and adults) to be supportive of one another, to stick up for each other and to realize that everyone is facing some kind of battle. Even if it doesn’t show on the outside.

I would recommend it for kids ages 10-13, or for any adults who like a good juvenile fiction book once in a while. 🙂 My daughter Emily read it and couldn’t put it down. There is also a sequel called Mr. Terupt Falls Again. I haven’t read it, but Emily has and loved it more than the first.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Happy Reading! Looking forward to your recommendations!

 

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200 comments

Judy Uhl January 29, 2015 - 3:53 am

One of my all time favorite books is “The five people you meet in heaven” by Mitch Albom. Please enter me for the Amazon gift card!thanks so much~

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Debbie January 29, 2015 - 4:28 am

I, too, love The Hiding Place. My latest endeavor has been to read through the Bible. No matter how long you have attended church and Sunday School, you will gain so much reading the entire Bible on your own. Yes, there are places where you just want to skip over (like the genealogies) but persevere and you won’t be sorry!

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Tami Jacobi January 29, 2015 - 12:03 pm

I always say, can’t do life without the bible!

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Bryn January 29, 2015 - 5:27 am

It was me all along by andie mitchell

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Kelly January 29, 2015 - 6:03 am

Another vote for The Hiding Place as my favorite. Thanks so much for all these reading suggestions and the opportunity to win!

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Shannon Walker January 29, 2015 - 6:10 am

I love to read and have many favorites. The one that sticks out the most for me is “The Pilars of the Earth”

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Kim B. January 29, 2015 - 6:55 am

I’m currently reading, The Hardest Peace by Kara Tippets. Really LOVED Melanie Shankle’s books, Sparkly Green Earrings & The Antelope in the Living Room. Fun giveaway!

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Alison January 29, 2015 - 7:12 am

I’m currently reading “Gone Girl”. I’m just getting into it, but it’s good so far.

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Jamie Spalding January 29, 2015 - 7:19 am

I’m finishing up my Bachelors Degree right now, and so all I have been reading for the last long while are textbooks. Right now I’m stuck reading my textbook on Anatomy. As much as I love Anatomy, I don’t think I’ll recommend the book. 🙂 However, my son is reading American Sniper and loves it. He said it is an extremely emotional book, but probably the best he’s ever read.

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Robin B. January 29, 2015 - 7:22 am

I have read 2 books by Kate Alcott lately, “The Dressmaker” and “The Daring Ladies of Lowell.” Both are historical fiction and are very good but the latter was my favorite. Also “The Mistletoe Promise” by Richard Paul Evans was wonderful, one of his best Christmas book, though they always read way too fast.

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Candy H. January 29, 2015 - 7:30 am

Great list! I can’t wait to read some/all of these. Recently I’ve really enjoyed The Book Thief and The One and Only Ivan.

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Bobbi Jo January 29, 2015 - 7:31 am

My all time favorite book is To Kill a Mockingbird. I have read it at least a dozen times and still pick it up from time to time to go again.

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Andrea January 29, 2015 - 7:51 am

The only book I have read from your list is Whistling Past the Graveyard. I also loved the quote that explains the title. And am now looking forward to finding a few of these.

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Chel January 29, 2015 - 7:55 am

A few recent favorites of mine are
“Chances Are” by Traci Abramson
“The Reluctant Bachelorette” by Rachael Anderson and
“The List” by Melanie Jacobson

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Kirstin January 29, 2015 - 7:56 am

my latest favorite is The Winter Sea!

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Beth January 29, 2015 - 8:05 am

Thank you! Love your book lists as much as your recipes! I’m so happy to see Charles Martin on your list. Chasing Fireflies is my favorite of his. I hope you’ll check it out!

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Barbara January 29, 2015 - 8:09 am

I really liked “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls. The author and I are about the same age and it’s hard to believe what she was living through while I was living a wonderful life in the Midwest!

Thanks for this opportunity, Jamie!!

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Sherry January 29, 2015 - 8:13 am

The husbands secret by Liane Moriarty, great book to read if you liked What Alice forgot

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sara January 29, 2015 - 8:20 am

I’m in the middle of What Alice Forgot and am really loving it! I love that author’s writing and am slowing working my way through all of her books. Some other favorites I’ve read recently:

The Rosie Project and The Rosie Effect, which are about a man with Asperger’s falling in love. Really sweet, and a unique perspective.

Time Expired by Susan Dunlap, which is one in a series of mysteries set in Berkeley, CA where I lived for almost a decade. The city is almost its own character in these books, which I love. 🙂

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Kayle (The Cooking A January 29, 2015 - 8:39 am

I’m really loving the Outlander series!

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Rebecca Hyer January 29, 2015 - 8:53 am

I like the divergent series.

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Erin Cherry January 29, 2015 - 9:21 am

I love a good book list, especially a “clean” book list. I highly recommend The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman by Ernest J Gaines. A fictional story of a black woman in the south who lived through the Civil War up until the civil rights movement of the 1960s

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Valerie January 29, 2015 - 10:00 am

I just finished reading The Bridge of San Luis Rey by Thornton Wilder in my book group and loved it. I plan on reading Our Town to follow it up.

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Amy January 29, 2015 - 10:21 am

I’m currently reading Yes Please by Amy Poehler. It’s hard to not compare it to Bossypants and so far I like Tina’s book better. One of my favorite books, and probably the only one I’ve actually read multiple times, is The Importance of Being Earnest. The movie is fantastic as well.

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Becki Wells January 29, 2015 - 10:31 am

Whistling Past the Graveyard is one of my favorite books too! I also love Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand and Follow the River by James Alexander Thom.

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Tricia H January 29, 2015 - 10:32 am

I love reading “The Virgin River” series by Robyn Carr!

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Leanna January 29, 2015 - 10:33 am

I love anything by Susan Mallery looking forward to the Girls of Mischief Bay that comes out next month.

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Sally Smith January 29, 2015 - 10:34 am

My Antonia by Willa Cather. Hands down, my favorite book. Great descriptions that make you feel so warm.

I teach junior high English. I recently finished Moons Over Manifest by Vanderpool. Wonderful. I want to teach it in the coming years.

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Tara January 29, 2015 - 10:37 am

I love to read when I have time. My all time favorites are written by Nicholas Sparks. I read The Notebook and became hooked. It is still a pleasure when I reread each one.

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P.J. January 29, 2015 - 10:39 am

Where’d You Go, Bernadette?

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Heather King January 29, 2015 - 10:41 am

Crossfire series by silvia day and 50 shades by e.l. James, I know., smut right! I love them all!!! Lol!

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Amanda Ho. January 29, 2015 - 10:42 am

I like to read some devotionals as well as the Bible.

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Tammy Wallis January 29, 2015 - 10:43 am

I recently read “all the light we cannot see” and loved it!!

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Holly Dennis January 29, 2015 - 10:47 am

I’ve loved reading these this year:
You Can Change by Tim Chester & Rescuing Ambition by Dave Harvey

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amy G January 29, 2015 - 10:53 am

I have really enjoyed reading Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand and The Glass Castle and Half Broke Horses by Jeanette Walls. Please enter me in the drawing for the amazon gift card!

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Wendy January 29, 2015 - 10:54 am

I just listened to Delicious by Ruth Reichl and really enjoyed it. My book club is reading To Kill a Mockingbird next month and I’m really looking forward to re-reading it.

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Eileen Jolls January 29, 2015 - 10:58 am

I love You Before Me by JoJo Moyes, and Dancing at the Harvest Moon. Also, The Paris Wife, The Aviator’s Wife–I could go on and on! Oh, and The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran.

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Camille January 29, 2015 - 11:00 am

Thanks for the list! I needed a new book idea!

I just read “Me Before You” by JoJo moyes and really enjoyed it. “Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriaty is good too.

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Ashley C January 29, 2015 - 11:00 am

One of my new favorite authors is Rainbow Rowell. I loved Landline! It is a sweet, easy to read romance with a twist. There is some language in it.

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Stefanie E January 29, 2015 - 11:05 am

My favorite book is The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton.

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Cynthia CP January 29, 2015 - 11:09 am

Not an adult book, but I love reading Magic Tree House books with my kids.

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Karen W. January 29, 2015 - 11:09 am

I have loved reading Jesus Today. Excellent encouragement for someone in struggle.

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Kris January 29, 2015 - 11:13 am

One of my new favorite books is Killing Lincoln. So fascinating to read about the last twelve days of his life.

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Joanne N January 29, 2015 - 11:13 am

I’m currently reading the Bible.

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Debbie Kaiser January 29, 2015 - 11:19 am

I loved The Rosie Project, and am looking forward to reading What Alice Forgot.

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Leslie January 29, 2015 - 11:22 am

Hi Jaimie, Favorite book is the bible of course! Loved the Lord of the Ring series the Fellowship of the Ring was the best.

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Kim January 29, 2015 - 11:26 am

My favorite books are Follow the River, The Poison wood bible by Barbara Kingsolver and The Count of Monte Cristo. I love the Hiding Place as well which is excellent. Another great read was the Secret Daughter by Gowda. Thanks for your great blogs, good food and fun personality.

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Faith January 29, 2015 - 11:30 am

I really enjoyed Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen.
As a matter of fact, I love all of her books.

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susanne January 29, 2015 - 11:31 am

I am pondered this and decided that Unbroken is probably going to be one of my top ten ever read books, but another book that I really loved and gave to my sons is a book called, “Season of Life”.

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Kathy W January 29, 2015 - 11:31 am

I have read “These is my Words” and “Sarah’s Quilt” and really enjoyed them. I also like Jane Kirkpatrick’s “All Together in One Place” and “No Eye Can See.” Thanks for your suggestions.

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susanne January 29, 2015 - 11:35 am

I loved Unbroken and Season of Life.

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