Hard to believe we’ve reached the end of another year, hey?

I didn’t read nearly as many books in 2016 as I anticipated or hoped — largely because I took on a number of editing projects this past year. In most of my “free” evening hours, I was editing manuscripts that other self-published authors had written.

Here are the books I did manage to read, as well as the ones I’m currently busy reading, a few books on my TBR list, and links to the books I read in 2014 and 2015.

 

 

Click each title below to read more about the books on Amazon (affiliate links used):

 

The Invention of Hugo Cabret, by Brian Selznick

I read this one to see if it was okay for my kids, and the verdict was “Yes.” I enjoyed both the storyline and the pictures and would recommend it as a middle grade reader.

 

God King, by Joanne Williamson

This was a captivating, well-written story that I read aloud to my kids as part of our homeschooling curriculum. It kept my attention as well as that of all three of my children.

 

The Golden Goblet, by Eloise Jarvis McGraw

The Golden Goblet is among my top three favorite homeschooling books I’ve ever read aloud to my kids. We read it as part of the sixth grade Sonlight curriculum, and it was fabulous.

 

Roots & Sky, by Christie Purifoy

I savored every page of this gem by Christie Purifoy. The writing is stunning and made me want to read small chunks at a time to contemplate and digest the beauty.

 

InSomnus, by Molly Fennig

I had the privilege of reading an advance copy of this debut novel. You’d never tell from the reading, but the author was just 17 years old at the time of writing! Incredible. A compelling YA sci-fi read.

 

Five Minute Friday: A Collection of Stories Written in Five Minutes Flat, compiled by Susan Shipe

This project is dear to my heart because of its many contributors. We have more than 150 writers who bravely shared words in this collection. Its diversity speaks to the heart of the Five Minute Friday community, and to the heart of our God.

 

Waves of Mercy, by Lynn Austin

This was such a fun read, not only because it is set in my home town of Holland, Michigan, but also because I got to meet and interview the author in her home! Definitely a highlight and milestone in my writing career.

 

Craving Connection: 30 Challenges for Real Life Engagement, a collection from (in)courage

It was my pleasure to contribute a chapter to this book. I’m so excited for its January 10th release. I truly believe this collection is going to bless (and challenge) many. Learn more about the book and all 30 contributors at: www.cravingconnectionbook.com

 

Come, Lord Jesus: The Weight of Waiting, by Kris Camealy

Our family read through this Advent devotional by Kris Camealy this December, and it is a winner. Even my husband, who is the first to admit that he is quite picky and easy to please when it comes to Christmas or Advent books, said it was very well done — both from a writing and a theological perspective. Grab a copy now for next December.

 

New Morning Mercies: A Daily Gospel Devotional, by Paul Tripp

My husband gave me this book for Christmas last year, and it was such an encouragement to me during this past year. It seemed that more often than not, God used Paul David Tripp’s words to speak directly to my heart. If you’re looking for a new devotional for 2017, this would be a great option.

 

Books I’m busy reading:

Making Marriage Beautiful: Lifelong Love, Joy, and Intimacy Start with You, by Dorothy Greco

Enjoy: Finding the Freedom to Delight Daily in God’s Good Gifts, by Trillia Newbell

 

Full: Food, Jesus, and the Battle for Satisfaction, by Asheritah Ciuciu

Onward: Engaging the Culture without Losing the Gospel, by Russell Moore

Books on my To Be Read List (including many more!):

The Happiness Dare: Pursuing Your Heart’s Deepest, Holiest, and Most Vulnerable Desire, by Jennifer Dukes Lee

A Cup of Dust: A Novel of the Dust Bowl, by Susie Finkbeiner

Fighting Fear: Awakening Courage to Overcome Fear, by Kelly Balarie

 

… And here are the Books I Read in 2015 and My Top 14 Books of 2014.

 

What about you? What books did you read in 2016? Which were your favorites?

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