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TEN MUST READ BOOKS

August 19, 2016 By momcafe 43 Comments

My kids are officially back in school, and although I am always quite emotional about sending them off into a new year, I am also a bit relieved and excited to finally have some time to MYSELF. At the beginning of each summer, I anticipate all kinds of time to relax in the summer sun and read all the amazing books stacked on my table, but the reality is- this dream rarely comes true. I wrote a little bit about this dream over on one of my favorite sites- SamwichesPsychMeds.com, and I would LOVE for you to check it out HERE.

To be fair, I can’t blame my book procrastination on friends at the pool, because I’ve learned after several summers with my kids home all day every day- there are very few moments of quiet and those are usually spent catching up on work that needs to be done. This summer was especially busy, so busy in fact, that I only wrote that one particular post and spent the rest of my limited free time editing my soon to be released BOOK!

But now with the kids in school, I finally get time to catch up on all the incredible books many of my beloved and talented friends have written! I want to share them with you, because I can assure you that each and every one of these books is worthy of reading. I know each author personally, and I can attest to their gift with words and the extraordinary mission with their books- all different and unique to their own passion. The following is a list of these books for you to click over and buy, in no particular order. I believe in these writers and I am confident you all will be incredibly blessed by their books!

Here are TEN MUST READ BOOKS FOR YOU!

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TEN MUST READ BOOKS

For all you moms out there, Melissa Mowry, from OneMotherToAnother.com, offers us all an intimate view into her days of motherhood with humor, insight, and honesty through her newly released book -“One Mother To Another”. You will feel like you are having conversations with a best friend, and come away feeling relieved, grateful, inspired, and filled. A total ‘treat me’ book for every mom who needs that kind of friend.

One Mother to Another: This Is Just Between Us by [Mowry, Melissa]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BUY IT HERE: “One Mother To Another.”

For those of you who want a compelling and poignant read, CeeCee James from Joyfullivingafterchildabuse.com, shares her extraordinary story in “Ghost No More: A Story of Child Abuse and Rescue.” In it, she shares details of her tragic childhood, her long journey toward freedom from her sadistic mother, and redemption that ultimately comes from a loving and gracious God. You will be moved to tears, touched in the deepest parts of your soul, and finally, given hope by her witness to the glory of a redeeming God. This book will grip your heart from the very beginning. (One of a series of three, but it can surely stand on its own.)

Ghost No More: A True Story of Child Abuse and Rescue (Ghost No More Series Book 1) by [James, CeeCee]

BUY IT HERE: “Ghost No More”

For those of you who are looking for more Christian inspiration, Jeanie Shaw, from jeaniesjourneys.com, has a huge selection of nourishing books for you to read. I am particularly interested in “Prime Rib: Exploring a Woman’s Value and Purpose”, but she has written many others, including “Understanding Goose- For anyone who has felt different, rejected, or empty.” And “When The Chicken Hits The Fan.”, another encouraging and humorous devotional to inspire and grow your faith. Jeanie has a way of using ordinary everyday moments to broaden our perspective and deepen our faith.

Prime Rib: Exploring a Woman's Value and Purpose by [Shaw, Jeanie]

BUY IT HERE: “Prime Rib: Exploring A Woman’s Value and Purpose.”

For those of you who love romance, this is the PERFECT book for you! Jennie Goutet from aladyinfrance.com, has released her first romantic fiction novel: “The Viscount of Maisons Laffitte.”-A clean modern romance set in France. This story sounds SO good. Who doesn’t need a good romantic fantasy about a seemingly impossible love affair, with a gripping plot? Oh, girls, you know you do!

The Viscount of Maisons-Laffitte: A clean, modern romance set in France by [Goutet, Jennie]

BUY IT HERE: “The Viscount of Maisons Laffitte.”

While we’re talking about Jennie, she also wrote an extraordinary memoir, “Stars Upside Down”, in which she shares an intimate view into her unfolding life events that will keep you captivated through every word. Intertwined in her life journey is God’s enduring and passionate quest for her heart that will leave you inspired and amazed at God’s presence in her life- and perhaps leave you considering His presence in your own? Jennie’s experience with her travels all over the world will impress you, and her honest, raw, and very personal perspective on struggling with addiction, depression, loss, and love- will leave you astounded at her incredible strength and inspired by her ambitious spirit.

Book cover of a sky with stars. Memoir

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BUY IT HERE: “Stars Upside Down.”

For those of you who would like a book on marriage and relationships, Michell Pullium, from michellpullium.com, has just released: “Real Talk: The Little Handbook of Marriage and Relationship Tips.” Michell is full of wisdom in this area, as she has been married to her beloved husband (A pastor) for over 27 years, and is not only a devoted wife and mother but a passionate follower of Jesus. If you need a quick and easy read, that will offer nourishment, encouragement, and guidance in loving your partner- this is for you! I love the questions it answers:

* Why making your home a haven is a must.
* Why you should deal with your insecurities before they deal with you.
* What you’re probably doing that’s draining your relationships.
* The number one way to get what you want out of your marriage.
* How to avoid the red flags that keep you in relationship ruts.
* Why you shouldn’t sit there and die if your marriage/relationship isn’t working.

Real Talk: The Little Handbook of Marriage and Relationship Tips by [Pulliam, Michell]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Real Talk: The Little Handbook of Marriage and Relationship Tips.”

For you gals who would like to be lifted into that heartwarming and fulfilling topic of friendship, this next book is definitely going to take you there. These two precious friends, Lizzi Lewis of Considerings.com and Hasty from Hastywords.com have created a gorgeous poetry journal: “Let Me Love You Anyway”, encapsulating their exquisite love for one another revealing insights into their unfolding friendship through a poem they wrote together. In this rare and beautiful book, you are offered the opportunity to join them in this gift of sharing your own love for a friend through your words and passing it along. Isn’t that lovely? Ah… the glorious gift of friendship all wrapped and woven into this cherished treasure.

“This poem was written from our hearts, one to the other, in support, solidarity, and love, which remains bright and shining between us, even on our darkest days. If friendship is the pinnacle of love, then may we ever enjoy this apex. We believe the sentiments our poem definitely go further than the two of us. We hope you fill this journal with heartfelt words and then… give it to someone you love.” ~ From Lizzi and Hasty

BUY IT HERE: “Let Me Love You Anyway- A Poetic Journal.”

For those of you who suffer from chronic illness, struggle with relentless ongoing pain, or even battle with brokenness in any way, Melinda Means from melindameans.com has a new book coming out August 23rd, titled “Invisible Wounds.” In it, she shares her own incredible journey in enduring the emotional and spiritual turmoil when feeling the burden of surviving her own intense ongoing illness for the last twenty years. This book also includes other women’s stories that reflect their own struggles with physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges they face through their own long-suffering. For the Christian woman who desperately needs guidance, encouragement, and assurance in God’s presence in her life while she suffers in silence, this book will bless you. Melinda has a mission, to use her pain for a purpose- and that purpose is to offer hope to the many women who feel hopeless. COMING SOON.

Invisible Wounds

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check it out HERE: “Invisible Wounds.”

As many of you know, I contributed to MotheringFromScratch.com for over a year and worked with both Melinda and Kathy Helgemo in offering encouragement for moms on their beautiful site. They wrote a book together, full of combined wisdom and insight into parenting and motherhood‘s greatest challenges and joys. This is a Christian parenting book every mom can benefit from, including these topics:

  • explore your personality and examine your strengths and weaknesses in order to find what works for you.
  • tap into the resources surrounding you and get mentoring and support from other moms.
  • push past the fear of change or doing it wrong and allow room for grace in your mothering.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BUY HERE: “Mothering From Scratch: Finding the Best Parenting Style for You and Your Family.”

 

This last book is a heart-rending memoir for anyone who wants to be shaken to your core, moved to tears, and inspired by the power of relentless faith. I think everyone needs to read “Rare Bird: A Memoir of Loss and Love”, by Anna Donaldson. The story of Anna losing her 12-year old son, will break your heart open, tear it to pieces, and put it back together with a fine thread of hope. Her agonizing personal journey into grief and beyond is by far the most compelling book I have ever read. I read it over two years ago, and it still lingers in my soul- and I know it will stay with you too. This book is a must read- yes, she will take you on an incredibly emotional journey, but sometimes it’s the hardest places that bring the greatest growth, right? I promise that you will feel honored to have this intimate view of her crushing world, because, surprisingly, you will take in her breath of hope in a loving God and the power of faith. Anna is an incredible writer and passionate faithful warrior. Her words will pierce your heart and take you deep into hers.

Rare Bird: A Memoir of Loss and Love by [Whiston-Donaldson, Anna]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BUY HERE: “Rare Bird: A Memoir of Loss and Love.”

I am quite confident you will find each of these books to be worth your time and money. I’m honored to have the privilege of sharing them with YOU.

 

 

Author Signature

Filed Under: Encouragement in Expression, Encouragement in Faith, Encouragement in Family, Encouragement in Healing, Encouragement in Laughter, Encouragement in Marriage, Encouragement in Motherhood, Encouragement in Words, Featured Post Tagged With: Books, chronic illness, Encouragement in Faith, Grief, Healing, Illness, Loss, Marriage, motherhood, parenting

Comments

  1. Allie says

    August 19, 2016 at 2:53 pm

    My favorite kid of post – books:). what a great supporter you are for your friends. I have added many to my list. I actually have TWO copies of rare Bird, both given to me as gifts. That book is much loved and very highly reviewed. But Christine, I am so scared to read it. Scared. Its the Same way I feel about When Breathe Becomes Air. I terrified of going to a dark place, you know?

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:49 am

      Yeah, I get it Allie. It is terrifying to go ‘there’… and yes, Anna will take you THERE. But the most beautiful aspect of her book is her relentless faith and incredible writing… it will grip your heart, make you sob, but really? It will fill you. I promise.

      Reply
  2. Jennie Goutet says

    August 19, 2016 at 2:56 pm

    Some of these I have, some I’ve read, all look interesting. Thank you for including TWO of mine. I feel so loved and supported – thank you! xoxo

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:47 am

      They are ALL really great reads, Jennie. And I’m SO GLAD and SO HONORED to share BOTH of your amazing books, lovey! <3

      Reply
  3. Robin says

    August 19, 2016 at 3:23 pm

    Hello Christine! I could relate to your post! Although I am an empty-nester, I still have a tendency to follow a yearly schedule similar to the schedule when our boys were home. I get excited about summer, make tentative plans and set summer goals only to wonder where the time went as September approaches. This summer was no exception. I have a few books still waiting to be read but I completed quite a few books on my summer reading list, which included Own Your Life by Sally Clarkson, Steadfast Love by Lauren Chandler, and Keep Your Love on by Danny Silk. I would highly recommend adding these books to your reading list!

    All the best,
    Robin

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:46 am

      Oooh, those sounds like great picks Robin! I appreciate you sharing them with me! I get the time flying through the summer season… oh do I get it. 🙂

      Reply
  4. Kenya G. Johnson says

    August 19, 2016 at 4:00 pm

    Oops, I thought your book was available. I just sent out another tweet. I just finished Michell’s book so I guess I thought yours was out too. Anyway sweet of you to share all of these links! My Kindle is always in my purse if I leave the house but I read mostly at bedtime. So my reading is off too because during the summer I tend to stay up later and go to sleep as soon as I get in the bed. During the school year I get in the bed pretty much when Christopher goes and that’s my reading time. So I’m looking forward to getting back to it.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:45 am

      Aw no worries, love! I SO appreciate the tweets!! 🙂 I love that schedule for the year- I need to be more intentional with my time after the kids go to bed. I end up scurrying around the house putting it back together again… when I’d much rather be reading!

      Reply
  5. Natalie @ Milk & Honey Faith says

    August 19, 2016 at 4:02 pm

    Wow! That is such a great list. There is nothing like kicking back with a terrific book. My book list is growing to nearly impossible lengths haha and my reading time is next to nil.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:44 am

      I get it, Natalie! Oh, but there are so many good books to read! It’s a treat when we have the time, isn’t it? 🙂

      Reply
  6. Kristi Campbell says

    August 19, 2016 at 4:13 pm

    I’ve been so lucky to have met Anna (Rare Bird). She’s part of the DC LTYM alum and the year I read, the party was at her house. I also got to go to the Rare Bird book launch party – she’s amazing. Now, I must check out your awesomeness at PsychMeds site!!! (but first, I need to take Tucker to the last day of Parkour camp) xoxo

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:43 am

      I’m SO JEALOUS! I would LOVE to meet Anna!! And you were in her HOME?!! So so cool. <3 I bet she is as beautiful in person as she is on the page. 🙂

      Reply
  7. Janine Huldie says

    August 19, 2016 at 5:04 pm

    Seeing as I am an avid reader, this is so my kind of post and am going to be going through to add to my ever growing list now, too. Thanks for sharing Chris!! 🙂

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:14 am

      You read like a NINJA Janine! How do you do it all? HOW? You fly through books and blog posts like a super hero. I am always AMAZED by you, my friend. You are incredible. <3 (Definitely some great picks on this list!)

      Reply
  8. Michell says

    August 19, 2016 at 5:10 pm

    Wow Chris!! I feel so honored (to have you mention my book and to be included among all these wonderful ladies)!! Thank you so much for sharing and for your support my friend! You sure do know how to make a gal feel special!! And you did it in a way, only YOU can…with thoughtful detail! What a wonderful friend you are…love you girlie!! <3 <3 <3

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:13 am

      Aw! I’m so so very glad to support you, dear friend. And I’m incredibly honored to share your book HERE! I’m THRILLED FOR YOU!!

      Reply
  9. Lizzi says

    August 19, 2016 at 8:54 pm

    Awwww Kitty, this is such a beautiful list! Thank you so, so much for including Hasty and I on it, and sharing our journal! And wow…you have some SERIOUSLY talented writer friends! No wonder you’re looking forward to getting to reading and reading and reading as much as you can 🙂

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:11 am

      I am SO INCREDIBLY BLESSED to have so many friends who are gifted writers and authors!! I cannot WAIT to get your book, love. I am going to treat myself (with some b day money!) to buying it SOON. <3

      Reply
  10. Katy says

    August 20, 2016 at 11:57 am

    What a lovely roundup! I wish you a luxurious fall day to read these. Don’t forget your book!! I will shout about it from my social media channels friend. 🙂

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:10 am

      It truly is a great list, Katy! I hope I can find the time to read them ALL! 🙂 And thank you friend, SO MUCH for your support! 🙂

      Reply
  11. My Inner Chick says

    August 20, 2016 at 1:57 pm

    —Love your picks.
    I’ve read “Rare Bird,” which I loved.
    Thank you, sweets, for continually sharing the love. xxxxx

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:09 am

      Wasn’t it incredible? I weeped through every page. She is the most courageous, faithful, strong, and beautiful soul…

      The other books are incredible too. Really honored to share them!

      Reply
  12. Jeanie Shaw says

    August 20, 2016 at 4:33 pm

    Thanks so much for the book “shoutout.” That means a lot. You are such and encourager…lifting up others’ works. I have read a couple of these, and look forward to the others. Thank you for your giving heart!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:08 am

      Absolutely my pleasure, dear Jeanie! <3

      Reply
  13. Live by Surprise (@LiveBySurprise) says

    August 20, 2016 at 6:26 pm

    What a great list of books. Lizzi and Hasty’s book is on my list of books to buy. And yours too.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:07 am

      You are the most supportive friend I know. I’M SO GRATEFUL FOR YOU! <3 <3 <3

      Reply
  14. Debbie says

    August 21, 2016 at 12:56 am

    Christine I am laughing. I know your post is not funny, but I’m retired and I substitute teach now. I thought I was going to get so, so many things done including sitting by our pool and writing. Didn’t happen. So busy with the grand babies and two Bible studies and I rushed to write on my sofa in the morning before the boys arrived. Congratulations on your upcoming book.

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:02 am

      Ha! Debbie, I have a good feeling I will be saying those exact same words someday!! There’s never enough time! 🙂

      Reply
  15. Hillary Savoie says

    August 21, 2016 at 1:28 am

    Thanks for sharing these! Rare Bird sounds amazing! I will have to put it on my list!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:02 am

      DO. IT. You will fall in love with Anna’s incredibly beautiful heart. <3

      Reply
  16. Kelly Smith says

    August 22, 2016 at 2:05 am

    What a fun list! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:01 am

      Thanks for stopping by Kelly!

      Reply
  17. Kelly Russell says

    August 22, 2016 at 12:34 pm

    Oh, I’m going to eat these up with a spoon. Thanks for such a wonderful rundown, makes it so much easier to choose what to read, some I’d head of, some are completely new. Happy reading everyone!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:01 am

      LOVE that sayin’ Kelly! “Eat these up with a spoon” <— SO FUN! I'm totally stealing it, okay? 🙂 Thanks so much for checking the list out- I truly believe every single one of these books is AMAZING.

      Reply
  18. Marie Kléber says

    August 22, 2016 at 12:53 pm

    How nice to be back Chris and to read you! I love knowing about new books, your list sounds fabulous.
    The holidays were great but as you said on your post @SamwichesPsychMeds, with young kids, it’s always difficult to have some “me time”.
    Yet, it’s so good to enjoy free time together as the shcool year can be quite crazy…

    Looking forward discovering some of these books. And Congratulations on Yours! (I’ll answer you this week)

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 28, 2016 at 12:00 am

      I hope you write about your holidays, Marie! I’ve been over to check on you a few times and no new posts yet. Maybe recently? Take your time, hun. Getting back into the swing of things always takes SO much energy and time, doesn’t it?

      Reply
  19. Lori Wildenberg says

    August 22, 2016 at 1:34 pm

    Thanks for listing all these great books here Chrissy!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 27, 2016 at 11:58 pm

      Totally my pleasure Lori! I’m honored to share them. 🙂

      Reply
  20. Maria says

    August 22, 2016 at 1:50 pm

    Thank you for sharing this list and yay to routine and time to yourself!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 27, 2016 at 11:57 pm

      Thanks for coming by to check the list out, Maria! And totally doing the happy dance around here! 🙂

      Reply
  21. Candace says

    August 27, 2016 at 10:23 pm

    I love a good book list, my friend. So many of these look right up my alley. Pinned. I can’t wait to dive into a few of these when my crazy current pile gets under control ;). Thanks for the recommendations, Chris!

    Reply
    • momcafe says

      August 27, 2016 at 11:47 pm

      I know exactly what you mean Candace! Definitely save this list for when you are freed up though. Some amazing books on it! 🙂

      Reply
  22. Tamara says

    August 28, 2016 at 3:52 am

    I can’t believe I missed two weeks of FTSF. Dumb Alaska!
    I have Rare Bird and I’ve been afraid to read it, but I have a feeling I’ll love it.
    And I think I know Mothering From Scratch. Didn’t they used to write a blog? I’m happy for them!

    Reply

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