“There is no friend as loyal as a book.”
Ernest Hemingway

Dear Readers,

After a busy June, July is buzzing by quicker than I would like. We unplugged last week, spending time with family, celebrating good news and being together. I thought I would read more, instead, I found myself soaking in memories. Simple days of being together, sharing stories, desserts (oh yes!), copious amounts of coffee, and laughter. 

Let’s get to my bookshelf and what I read in June! 

Allie and Bea by Catherine Ryan Hyde

This was a sweet story, similar to A Man Called Ove. Older, homeless woman picks up a teenager whose life has come unraveled due to circumstances beyond her control.

The characters are complex and interesting, with a story urging you to turn the pages. Be prepared for laughter and tears.

I enjoyed this book and recommend it for a light, summer read!

 

The Dry by Jane Harper

The Dry was Modern Mrs. Darcy’s book club pick, stretching my typical reading. I was quickly drawn in and loved the book!

“A small town hides big secrets in The Dry, an atmospheric, page-turning debut mystery by award-winning author Jane Harper.” Amazon 

It begs to be said Jane Harper is a sweetheart! I will read her books based on her personality alone!

 

Humble Roots by Hannah Anderson

I bought this book based on two things: the word humble and it’s set in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.

“Humble Roots reveals how cultivating humility-not scheduling or increased productivity-leads to true peace. By remembering who you are and WHO you aren’t, you can discover afresh your need for God and the rest that comes from belonging to Him.” from the book cover.

I. Love. This. Book. It is marked, highlighted, and full of post it notes. A sign of a well loved book!

Our Souls At Night by Kent Haruf

“A spare yet eloquent, bittersweet yet inspiring story of a man and a woman who, in advanced age, come together to wrestle with the events of their lives and their hopes for the imminent future.” from Amazon

I loved this story, though I knew from the beginning it could not be wrapped up in a neat bow, I still loved every part of this book.

 

 

Beach House for Rent by Mary Alice Monroe

I read everything Mary Alice Monroe writes! My love for her words began with Beach House Memories, and has continued.

“Bestselling author Mary Alice Monroe returns to her beloved Isle of Palms to tell the poignant, charming story of two women, one summer, and one very special beach house.” from Amazon

Monroe’s books are summer breezes and sounds of ocean waves. I adore them.

 

If you’ve been reading my Bookshelf posts for a while, you know I always put a disclaimer at the beginning. Listing the books in the order I read them, not in order of preference. Until now. Why? This next book, Fredrik Backman’s Bear Town!

Bear Town by Fredrik Backman

Where to start? Bear Town was an MMD book club pick with the added bonus of a phone interview with Fredrik Backman himself.

I would have quickly abandoned Bear Town, with seemingly too many characters, a violent sport, and atrocious language. But I stuck with it.

Bear Town is relevant in today’s society. I feel so strongly about the content, it will stay with me a long time. I suspect I will find myself years from now, pondering this story.

Backman’s storytelling of an event that will feel familiar, especially in light of today’s current events, will keep you coming back for more. It is well written. Thoughtfully done. A must read.

That wraps up June’s Bookshelf! I would love to know what you are reading! You can do that by commenting below or contacting me directly here.

Gifts of Grace

I’m blessed to serve you in this place, to share with you the Gifts of Grace as I journey through the wilderness. I picture you across the table, hands wrapped tightly around your cup, sharing life, and laughter, and tears. As I share with you my own daily struggles, I long to hear what yours may be. Sharing the realness of life. You can do that by commenting below or reaching out to me here.

You are welcomed here! Sign up here and receive new posts directly in your inbox. 

In case you missed these posts:

You can find a small sampling of my favorite podcasts here

Steady: What Keeps Me Steady

Generations Lost: Have we given up too soon?

Worth the Investment

Leveling the Ridges-Beauty in Painful Places