My Top 10 Books of 2020 // my favourite reads the year

I know it's a little late for this kind of post but better late than never right?

Usually picking out favourites from a year's worth of reading is a slightly daunting thing & its hard to narrow down the list. But this time, the ten books that did make this list stood out from all the rest and it was easy to pick my very favourites.

All of these books are so dear to my heart & I already cannot wait to reread all of them!

So without further ado, here are my top ten reads of 2020 in the order in which I read them.

Mary Barton by Elizabeth Gaskell // 4 stars

"Mary Barton, the heroine of Elizabeth Gaskell's novel, is beautiful but has been born poor. Her father fights for the rights of his fellow workers, but Mary wants to make a better life for them both. She rashly decides to reject her lover Jem, a struggling engineer, in the hope of marrying the rich mill-owner's son Henry Carson and securing a safe future. But when Henry is shot down in the street and Jem becomes the main suspect, Mary finds herself hopelessly torn between them. She also discovers an unpleasant truth - one that could bring tragedy upon everyone and threatens to destroy her."

If someone asked me what book made me fall in love with classic literature, I would answer with Mary Barton.

This was the very first book I read in 2020 & it was also my first Gaskell book. 

I must say it was a brilliant book to begin the year with! I adored it so much that it has made its way onto my list of all-time favourites.   

To summarize Mary Barton in my own words, it follows the story of a young woman, Mary Barton, and other wonderful characters through a period of immense poverty and suffering of the working classes in the 1840s and how it affects each of them as well as how each person deals with it.

Mary's father John Barton, becomes more and more resentful towards the rich and well off classes under whom he and many others are employed. He continues to become embittered against the richer classes until he is driven to act in a drastic way that is to have deep repercussions on all those around him.

Without her father's knowledge, since it would greatly displease him, Mary is courted by the son of a rich mill-owner, Harry Carson, who represents everything that John Barton resents. (see my full Goodreads review)

This book completely exceeded all my expectations and I highly recommend you pick it up if you haven't before. It's such an underrated classic in my opinion! 

Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier // 5 stars

"On a trip to the South of France, the shy heroine of Rebecca falls in love with Maxim de Winter, a handsome widower. Although his proposal comes as a surprise, she happily agrees to marry him. But as they arrive at her husband's home, Manderley, a change comes over Maxim, and the young bride is filled with dread. Friendless in the isolated mansion, she realises that she barely knows him. In every corner of every room is the phantom of his beautiful first wife, Rebecca, and the new Mrs de Winter walks in her shadow."

Another first for me and one that did not disappoint! I read it during lockdown in Autumn & it was the perfect gothic read as it felt both cosy & chilling at the same time.

Rebecca is a very gripping novel that captures you from the first page and doesn't let go until the last sentence.

Chapter by chapter, I was slowly drawn in by the intriguing plot, the beautiful descriptions that made you feel as though you were there, the mystery and the slight suspense as things lead up to a climax. (see my full Goodreads review)

It was so good and I'm hoping I enjoy the rest of her novels just as much.

If you have never read a Daphne du Maurier book, this is a great one to start with! 

The Murder on the Links by Agatha Christie // 5 stars 

"On a French golf course, a millionaire is found stabbed in the back…

An urgent cry for help brings Poirot to France. But he arrives too late to save his client, whose brutally stabbed body now lies face downwards in a shallow grave on a golf course.

But why is the dead man wearing his son’s overcoat? And who was the impassioned love-letter in the pocket for? Before Poirot can answer these questions, the case is turned upside down by the discovery of a second, identically murdered corpse…"

Last year I decided to start reading through all Agatha Christie's Poirot novels in the order in which Goodreads arranged them. So The Murder on the Links was my second one and I loved it so, so much!

Firstly, I don't understand how Agatha Christie can pack so much into a short 200-something page book! The rollercoaster ride she takes you on in this book is crazy and keeps you turning the pages until the very end. 

I adored how Poirot & Hastings interacted in this book, there where several humorous moments between them and also some rather endearing ones.

The ending was shocking but that is all I am going to say on that matter.

All in all, this book is phenomenal and shall always be one of my very favourite Poirot mysteries.

(read my full review here)

Mind Games by Nancy Mehl // 5 stars

"Kaely Quinn's talents as an FBI behaviour analyst are impossible to ignore, no matter how unorthodox her methods. But when a reporter outs her as the daughter of an infamous serial killer, she's demoted to field agent and transferred to St. Louis.

When the same reporter who ruined her career claims to have received an anonymous poem predicting a string of murders, ending with Kaely's, the reporter's ulterior motives bring his claim into question. But when a body is found that fits the poem's predictions, the threat is undeniable, and the FBI sends Special Agent Noah Hunter to St. Louis.

Initially resentful of the assignment, Noah is surprised at how quickly his respect for Kaely grows, despite her oddities. But with a brazen serial killer who breaks all the normal patterns on the loose, Noah and Kaely are tested to their limits to catch the murderer before anyone else--including Kaely herself--is killed."

There were several things I especially liked about this book that set it apart from the other suspense fiction I've read but I'll put one right here (if you'd like to read my full review, click here).

The thing that impressed me the most was the prominent faith content.

Usually, in books similar to this, a somewhat cliche and cheesy Christian message is simply slipped in somewhere in the story as though just to make it qualify for being labelled as Christian fiction (in my experience anyway).

This wasn't the case with Mind Games. Kaely has several conversations with Noah about her faith and the writer also points out Kaely's own struggles and how she depends on Christ to help her through even the darkest of times.

I desperately need to get my hands on the next two books in the series! 

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers // 5 stars

"California's Gold Country, 1850. A time when men sold their souls for a bag of gold and women sold their bodies for a place to sleep. Angel expects nothing from men but betrayal. Sold into prostitution as a child, she survives by keeping her hated alive. And what she hates most are the men who use her, leaving her empty and dead inside.

Then she meets Michael Hosea, who obeys God's call to marry Angel and love her unconditionally. Slowly, day by day, he defies Angel's every bitter expectation until, despite her resistance, her frozen heart begins to thaw.

But with her unexpected softening come overwhelming feelings of unworthiness and fear. And so Angel runs. Back to the darkness, away from her husband's pursuing love, terrified of the truth she can no longer deny: Her final healing must come from the One who loves her even more than Michael Hosea does . . . the One who will never let her go."

How does one even begin to talk about this book? I finally read it after hearing Jenna (@jennavanmourik) rave about it countless times and I quickly discovered why it has captured so many reader's hearts over the years.

It writing sucked me in from the very beginning and I was so engrossed in the story from then on.

I loved the characters in this book. They all felt very raw and real and I became quite attached to them by the end of it all. 

This was an emotional rollercoaster of a book but I am sure it will touch your soul in one way or another! (read my full review)

The Freja Peachtree Series (3 books) // 4 stars

"For the first ten years of Freja's life, she and her mother Clementine have roamed the Arctic in search of zoological wonders. Happy, content, together. Freja and Clem. Clem and Freja. But now, everything is changing, and Clementine must send Freja away to live with her old friend Tobias, a bestselling crime writer and, quite possibly, the most absent-minded man on earth. Tobias isn't used to life with a child, and Freja isn't used to people at all, but together they'll stumble into an Italian adventure so big that it will change things forever."

What a sweet & delightful series this was!

Freja Peachtree and her mother Clemintine, share a strong bond. Clemintine is Freja's entire world until one day when they must be separated for a time.

That's when Freja is placed in the care of the absent-minded, best-selling crime writer Tobias Appleby and an adventure unfolds as they take a trip to Rome and become tangled up in a mystery and Italian culture. It was funny, had me smiling and giggling and feeling warm and fuzzy.

There are three books in this series and they are all equally sweet & endearing. 

The Girl, the Dog and the Writer in Rome (review)

The Girl, the Dog and the Writer in Provence (review)

The Girl, the Dog and the Writer in Lucerne (review)

Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie // 5 stars

"The tranquillity of a cruise along the Nile is shattered by the discovery that Linnet Ridgeway has been shot through the head. She was young, stylish and beautiful, a girl who had everything – until she lost her life.

Hercule Poirot recalls an earlier outburst by a fellow passenger: ‘I’d like to put my dear little pistol against her head and just press the trigger.’ Yet in this exotic setting,’ nothing is ever quite what it seems…" 

I read this along with some friends & it was such a fun experience to discuss who we thought had done it and throw our suspicions around. 

Death on the Nile was set up so well and we get to meet the characters and become familiar with them in the opening chapters of the book before any of the real action begins.

I just love Poirot and his interactions with all the passengers on the steamer on its way down the Nile.

He can be compassionate and feeling when it is needed, and I love seeing this aspect of his personality.

I had the inkling that I knew who did it, as I had seen the David Suchet movie adaptation but I only finally remembered who it was during the final few chapters. I was still surprised and amazed when the killer was revealed! (my review)

Greenglass House by Kate Milford // 4 stars 

"It’s wintertime at Greenglass House. The creaky smuggler’s inn is always quiet during this season, and twelve-year-old Milo, the innkeepers’ adopted son, plans to spend his holidays relaxing. But on the first icy night of vacation, out of nowhere, the guest bell rings. Then rings again. And again. Soon Milo’s home is bursting with odd, secretive guests, each one bearing a strange story that is somehow connected to the rambling old house. As objects go missing and tempers flare, Milo and Meddy, the cook’s daughter, must decipher clues and untangle the web of deepening mysteries to discover the truth about Greenglass House—and themselves."

As you can see, I got into middle-grade fiction last year. I picked this up after I'd heard several people talk about it on YouTube and Instagram. I read it around Christmas time and even though its summertime when we celebrate Christmas, I loved feeling those cosy white Christmas feels through reading this book.

"The smells of baking ham and pies and bubbling cranberry sauce with orange drifted through the first floor to mingle with the pine and bayberry and peppermint scents of the candles."

The mystery was so well done and there was such a variety of characters to read about. 

I can't wait to read the rest of the series and revisit Greenglass House!

Bonus mentions:

Those are my top ten, but here are a few honourable mentions I wanted to add.

~ The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis 

I read this entire series for myself for the first time last year and thoroughly enjoyed them.

~ Passion & Purity by Elisabeth Elliot 

Such a good book & it really helped me during a particular season of my life last year. 

~ Kingdom's Dawn (Kingdom #1) by Chuck Black 

I began this series and really enjoyed the allegorical storytelling. 

~ Good Wives by Louisa May Alcott

I enjoyed this book but not quite as much as Little Women, which will al be dear to my heart!

Have you read any of my top ten books? What did you think?

keep blooming,

Hannah

Afternoon Tea Book Tag

Hello darlings!

As usual I wasn't actually tagged to do this tag but I found it somewhere and thought it would be fun to do. And it is about time I did another one, which it was I always say!
I love that it combines food and books together because I for one do enjoy having a snack and a cup of tea while I read sometimes.

I think book tags are fun and also a great way to share books that I have read and remind me of books I should reread as you will see!

So, without further ado, let's begin!


Tea - a book you find comfort in

I'd have to say Little Women, and I happen to be rereading it right now. I always find the story so lovely and heart-warming so I love to return to it in movie or book form often!

Scones - something hearty/a big delicious book

I don't often go for big, thick books and this is one of the only bigger books I have read. But I wound't have it any other way because I really enjoyed this one and it even gave me a mini book hangover! Talking about it now makes me want to pick it up again soon...

Clotted Cream - a book you didn't like at first but ended up loving
For this prompt, I have to say a series instead of just one book and it may be a bit surprising!
I love this series now but at the beginning, Christy got on my nerves. But as I carried on through the books, she grew up and matured and I enjoyed them more. Now me and my sister like to fangirl about all the sweet or funny moments.

Finger Sandwiches - a book you like but that's not quite satisfying
I'm going to say Worth the Wait by Karen Witemeyer. I quite enjoyed the whole Ladies of Harper Station series (however cliche it may be!) and I was wanting a story about Ben and Victoria since I was first introduced to them. So when I discovered that there was a novella about them I was pleased.
Unfortunately, though I was glad to have at least a small story on them, it was so short that it didn't quite satisfy my reading appetite.

Jam - your favourite pair/characters who are just sweet together
This is hard! But I think I'm going to go with Mary & Jem from Mary Barton by Elizabeth Gaskell.
Theirs is one of those love stories in which one of the parties has always loved the other but never confessed it. Jem has secretly admired Mary since they met as children and though their story has many ups and downs, I 'd say the ending is quite satisfactory and sweet.

Six Petit Fours - a favourite short story book
I am not sure if this prompt is meant to mean a book of short stories or just a short book. But I am going to say its the later because I don't often read short story collections.

An Eagle in the Snow by Michael Morpurgo is my pick for this prompt. Morpurgo's books are so wonderful yet so short. Yet he manages to write such compelling little stories that stick with you.
I must reread this one soon!

Strawberries & Cream - a dynamic duo
Using Little Women again...because for this prompt I think I'll say Jo & Laurie. I do think that Laurie and Amy make a good couple and don't truly believe Jo and Laurie would have made a good couple. But there is no denying that that have something special between them that is quite endearing.


Your favourite tea cup - a beautiful character too pure for this world
Beth...from Little Women! Sorry, but she was the only one that came to mind and I think we can all agree that her quiet spirit and pure, kind heart is simply beautiful.

What are your thoughts on my answers for this tag?
Do you enjoy eating and reading combined or is that a no-no for you?

keep blooming,

Autumn Reads

Hello darlings!

I love reading all year round but in the colder months, I feel like its a much more common activity.
You can sit there all snuggled up with a hot cup of tea, coffee, hot chocolate (or what ever else you fancy) and be transported to another world.

I am quite seasonal reader. With the changing of the seasons come the changing of my reading tastes.
In Autumn, I gravitate to mystery novels, old favourites, classics and comfort reads.

So I am putting together a list of some of the books that I feel fit that description.
Not all of these will be ones that I have read, though the majority will be as I don't like to suggest books that I have not read. I mark titles that I have read with a *.



Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier {currently reading}

The Mysterious Affair at Styles by Agatha Christie

Mary Barton by Elizabeth Gaskell*

Return to the Hundred Acre Wood by David Benedictus*

The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak*

By the Shores of Silver Lake by Laura Ingalls Wilder*

The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

North & South by Elizabeth Gaskell

The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer

Brambly Hedge: Autumn Story by Jill Barklem*

The Secret of Pembrooke Park by Julie Klassen*

Thin Ice (Men if Valor #2) by Irene Hannon*

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott* {currently rereading}

My Cousin Rachel by Daphne du Maurier

What are your favourite cosy reads?

keep blooming,

My Top 10 Favourite Books of 2019

Hello darlings!

It's that time of year again, time to talk about my favourite books of the year.
These aren't necessarily book that were published in 2019, but just my favourite books that I read this year.
Most of these books came to mind fairly easily when I was looking over my 2019 reading stats on Goodreads.
I had a pretty good year of reading in 2019. I read a lot of good books and wasn't majorly disappointed in any of them.
But some definitely stuck out as my favourites and I am going to tell you which ones they were now.

This list is in no particular order, because I could never rank them.

1. Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin

I read this twice this year, so that says something! I really enjoyed this book and I think its the perfect read if you feel like your quiet time needs a boost in the New Year. It is short, easy to read and full of helpful tips & advice.

2. The Secret of Pembrooke Park by Julie Klassen

My first Julie Klassen book and one of my favourite reads of the whole year to be sure! I loved the mystery in this, the characters, the romance and the whole package. 

It was a chunky read but honestly I didn't mind because it was so good and I even had a slight book hangover afterwards!

I can't wait to read more of Klassen's books next year and probably reread this one because I have my own copy now.

3. The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman

After watching the movie adaptation for this book (actually filmed in New Zealand), I was of course interested in reading the book. The movie itself was emotional and beautiful, but the book only exceeded in making me emotional, even to the point of shedding tears!

The story is such a heartbreaking one but so well written and and though there are a few inappropriate comments (within their marriage thankfully) that I could have gone without, I do recommend this book to those of you who love a beautifully written, heart breaking historical read!

4. Heart on the Line by Karen Witemeyer

I read the Ladies of Harper's Station series throughout this year and while I loved the series as a whole and enjoyed reading the other women's love stories, this one was my favourite.
Amos was a different hero to what we are used to seeing and his relationship with Grace that grows throughout this book is just the sweetest.
I love that they first communicate through telegraph messages, much like texting today only much cuter!

5. Love Defined by Kristen Clark & Bethany Baird

The second book on my top 10 in the Christian non-fiction genre. I read more of this genre in 2019 and I hope to read even more in 2020 because they a faith building and encouraging to read.

I have a review on this wonderful book, which I'll link here.

6. Land of Silence by Tessa Afshar

I was introduced to the genre of Biblical Fiction this year by Jenna van Mourik (I highly suggest you look her up on her Instagram, Blog and Youtube channel, all @jennavanmourik!) and she raved about Land of Silence so I had to pick it up and I soon found out that her praises were not for nothing.
This book is so, so good and I am eyeing up Tessa Afshar's other books now...

7. Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations by V. Joy Palmer

I finally got to reading this book this year and I really enjoyed the story & Palmer's fun, quirky writing style. Also, the topic of being content with singleness was addressed in this story which is rare in the Christian fiction genre.
I cannot wait till her third book gets released! 

8. The Secrets of Paper and Ink by Lindsay Harrel

Another new-to-me author that I discovered this year was Lindsay Harrel. I have a written a review here on this blog so I'll leave that linked here.

9. In My Father's House by Ann Rinaldi

Ahh, just thinking about these books, especially this one, makes me want to read them again!

This lovely book had been sitting on my shelf for quite some time before I finally decided to pick it up this year. I shared all my fangirly thoughts on in a review here on my blog not long ago so if you are curious you can check that out.

10. Kind is the New Classy: The Power of Living Graciously by Candace Cameron Bure

I listened to an audio book of this book read by the one and only Candace Cameron Bure and I really enjoyed it. She writes about her own life experiences and her career, all while presenting the message of kindness in a simple and inspiring way.



I would happily go and reread most of these book right now, that's how much I enjoyed them!
Have you read any of these? What was one of your favourite reads of 2019?

keep blooming,

Christmas Gift Guide for Young Ladies

Hello darlings!

With Christmas fast approaching, I thought it would be fun to compile a few gift ideas for the special girls in your life!
I have to be honest with you and say that I love giving & receiving gifts both equally.
It is fun to pick out something for someone you love, carefully wrap it up and then present it to them at Christmas time.

I do love homemade gifts and think that they are a great option that shows extra thought in your gift. But I am here today to share some fun things I have found that I think would make wonderful Christmas presents!

Let's go!


Disclaimer:
Many of these will be New Zealand stores so if you live outside of NZ, I apologize if you can't find it in your country. But most of these things(or similar versions) should be available at a range of stores worldwide.



1. ESV Journaling Bible Elegant Grace Print from Manna Christian Store
A beautiful journaling Bible like this one would be a great gift for a girl in your life who loves studying the Bible and who has an artistic side.

2. Little Letter Necklace in Silver or Gold from Sophie Store
I myself would love to get one of these sweet little letter necklaces! It's small, special and slightly personal because you can pick out their initial.

3. Love Defined by Kristen Clark & Bethany Baird from Amazon
If you know a girl who loves to read, get her this wonderful book! It's full of practical and biblical advice and perspectives on romantic relationships.

4. Sol Cup Reusable Glass Coffee Cup from Oh Natural
If your friend is a coffee lover, a pretty & reusable coffee cup would be perfect for her. This one is gorgeous with its pink accents and bound to make whoever you gift it to happy.

5. Emma Block Lady Cyclist A5 Notebook from Emma Block's Etsy Store
A small notebook with a darling cover illustration by Emma Block would be great for the girl ho can't get enough stationary. Pair this with a cute pen, and maybe a pencil case for a cute gift to give your stationery fanatic!

6. Kind Is The New Classy by Candace Cameron Bure from Amazon
Another great read that any of your friends or women in your life are bound to love! Candace Cameron Bure's book talks about the lack of kindness in this world and how women can put kindness into practice in their lives.

7. Canvas Tote Bag : Woodland from kikki.K
I would personally get this tote bag as a way of holding other smaller gifts inside it. Imagine the delight on that special girls face when she pulls all the little hand-picked goodies out of this adorable tote bag (gift wrapping that is also part of the gift!).

8. Burt's Bees Holiday Spa Collection from Burt's Bees
Girls, be honest, we all would love a gift like this! Pamper your girlfriend by gifting her this lovely spa set from Burt's Bees. Maybe you could have a spa day together at a later date and create a memory too!

9. Tickets to a concert or event
Does your friend or sister have a favourite band? Or maybe she would love to go see a ballet? Get tickets for the two of you to go and do this together. Not only will she loves it but you will share the experience and make memories.

10. Velvet Knotted Headband - Baby Pink
For the girl that you know loves a good accessory, gift her this beautiful velvet headband!


I hope these ideas help you find the perfect gift for the girls in your life that are special to you.
Personally, I would love to receive any of these!

Merry Christmas!


keep blooming,
Hannah, xo




(Blogger wouldn't let me add my usually signature at the end so this will have to suffice.)

In My Father's House ~ Book Review

Hello darlings!

Guess what?
It is time for another book review because this week I finished reading this little (but amazing) book and I simply had to share my thoughts with you!


I've had this book sitting on my bookshelf for ages! My mum suggested I get it at a book sale once.
But last week I decided to read it and I am so glad I did (and wondering why I never read it sooner!).


Side Note: I apologize if my format for book reviews keeps changing. I am trying to figure out what works for me & this blog! I hope you enjoy this book review nevertheless!



Synopsis
"Many of the fiercest battles of the Civil War were fought in the home. Oscie Mason knows this all too well.
The first shots of the war were fired on her front lawn--a sign of things to come.
Oscie's a proud daughter of the Old South, but her stepfather, Will McLean, thinks the world of her childhood must change. 
Oscie won't accept anything he has to say. And the tension between them is about to explode.
To escape the war, Will Mc Lean moves the family to a quiet town called Appomattox.
But the war will follow them there, as sure as the hurtful battles will continue in Oscie's home, and in her heart. Can Oscie call a truce--or will all that she cherishes become a casualty of war?"


First, I have to comment on Rinaldi's writing. It was fantastic!
So simple and easy to read, yet to gripping and beautiful. All the characters were portrayed in a very real way and their imperfections weren't covered up.

My favourite characters were Oscie Mason and Will McLean.
I loved reading about their interactions and how their relationship grew as the story progressed.
It was also nice to e another type of relationship (in this a stepfather & daughter relationship) be the centre of the story rather than a romantic relationship.
I loved Oscie's spirit, McLean's will to do the right thing and care for his family.


The story itself is based on the real-life McLean family, whose front yard was where the first shots of the war were fired and later in their parlour where the war came to an end.
When I discovered that most of the characters in this book were real it only made me more fascinated and in love with this book!
It made me look into Wilmer McLean (Will McLean in the book) on the Internet and whet my appetite to find more stories set around the Civil War.
In my online search, found a photo of Osceola (Oscie) Mason's gravestone, which I found fascinating!


Throughout this book, if you pay attention, are some themes of forgiveness & healing which only make this story even more wonderful.

There are may amazing quotes in this book too. I will share a few of my personal favourites!

~ ~ ~ ~

"He had to put down the sacks of sugar and coffee then. Because, though he could hold off a mob at the depot with no trouble, even he couldn't kiss a girl with his arms full of contraband."

(This had me smirking!)

~ ~ ~ ~

"He looked down at my hand which he still held in his own.  'You're betrothed to a soldier,' he said.

'I told you not to give your heart to a soldier, Oscie.'

'They keep hearts best,' I said. 'Or so I've found.'

He was struck speechless then."

~ ~ ~ ~

"He was baiting me and enjoying it. He knew I was up to it. And, though he wouldn't tolerate sass, 

he expected me to give as well as I was getting. But something else was happening here, also. I was asking him to let me go. The way a girl asks her father. And he was getting ready to release me.

The way a father does, when he knows a girl's grown. But it wasn't any easier for him than I suspect it would have been for mt own daddy. Part of being grown up, I knew, meant I had to leave him with something. It wasn't anything he hadn't earned. And he was waiting for it."

~ ~ ~ ~

I sincerely hope that by now I have convinced you that you should go read this book RIGHT NOW!

It is truly a wonderful book. 

Now I am, of course, aching to read more of Ann Rinaldi's books...

keep blooming,

   

The Secrets of Paper & Ink ~ Book Review

Hello darlings!

Today I am delighted to bring you a review of a new favourite book of mine!

A while ago I saw this book popping up everywhere on bookstagram but for some reason, I thought nothing of it.
Then a few weeks ago I spotted it at our local library and thought I may as well give it a go.
I am so glad that I read it.
I can't wait to read more books by this author but for now, I'll share my thoughts on this book!

Synopsis
"As a counsellor, Sophia Barrett is trained to help people cope with their burdens. But when she meets a new patient whose troubles mirror her own, she realizes she hasn't dealt with the pain of her recent past. After making a snap decision to get away for the summer, Sophia moves overseas to an apartment above a charming bookstore in Cornwall, England.
She is hopeful she will find peace there surrounded by her favourite thing: great literature.
Bookstore owner Ginny Rose is desperate to save her business without asking for help from a husband who's decided to take a break from their marriage.
Ginny never imagined she'd be solely responsible for keeping afloat her husband's dream, but the unexpected friendship with her new renter has her feeling more optimistic.
Between the two of them--and Ginny's brother-in-law, William-- the bookstore might stand a chance.
Then Sophia finds a notebook in the bookstore that contains journal entries from Emily Fairfax, a governess who lived in Cornwall more than 150 years ago. Sophia learns that Emily harboured a secret passion for becoming an authoress--as well as a deep love for her childhood friend, Edward, whose station she dared not dream to touch.
Eager to know more of Emily's story, Sophia goes on a quest--dragging Ginny and William--to discover the heart of the woman behind the beautiful entries. Soon Ginny's need to save the bookstore becomes more than a way to save her marriage, and Sophia finds new purpose of her own.
Together they find that sometimes both heartache and hope can reach across the centuries."



The Pros
Reading this book made me feel like I was wrapped in a cosy blanket, sipping a hot cup of tea.
I actually already feel like rereading it and that doesn't happen often!
At first stepping back and forth between Sophia, Ginny and Emily's stories was a little confusing but once I got into it I followed along easily.
I love a good historical so it was nice to have part of the story set in the 1800s. I could have happily stayed in Emily's story for the whole book but the way that all three women's lives intertwined was quite beautiful.

This book was actually kind of refreshing to read because while there was still a hint of romance in the plot, it wasn't the focal point. The story focuses more on healing, hope and friendships.

I loved the setting in Cornwall, England. It is my dream to visit England someday!
It was so bookish, being set around a bookshop, Sophia is an avid reader (along with William), the search for Emily Fairfax through clues in her journal and her dream to be an authoress.
I loved this aspect of the whole book!

One quote that stuck out to me was this one:
"We must embrace that story and remember that who we are is not defined by the ups and downs of our lives--the failure OR the successes. Nay, we are instead defined by Whose we are."



The Cons
The spiritual content was lacking in my opinion. The author just scratched the surface of something that could have gone a little deeper and could have put her point across a little clearer and stronger.

One comment was made that didn't really need to be there but it was about a married couple so it wasn't impure.


In conclusion, I loved this story. I hugged the book when I was finished because it was that sort of book.
I cannot wait to read Lindsay's other books, in fact, I already have the ebook for After The Tide, written by her!

If you love stories about friendships, books and healing then this book is for you! And if you love split time novels and stories about writers and books, then this book is also for you!


keep blooming,

Books I can't Wait to Dive Into

Hello darlings!

I was going through my old posts in search of inspiration for future posts when I came across this post where I listed a few books I couldn't wait to read and I thought I'd do that again.
I am proud to say that I have actually read all of the books on that post, and I am hoping that in a few months I can say the same for the books I am about to share with you.

The Hope of Azure Springs by Rachel Fordham

If you have been around here for awhile you will have noticed that I love a good historical novel and this one looks right up my alley!
I have heard great things about this book and the author in general so I'm curious to read her writing.
The cover of this book is lovely too, so that helps!

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

I have sadly never read this series but I am hoping to change that soon!

The only reason I have held of for a while is so that I can finish reading some of the series I am currently going through and then start this one.

I adore the movie and enjoyed them multiple times so I can't wait to experience the books too!

Beholding and Becoming: The Art of Everyday Worship by Ruth Chou Simons

First of all, this looks like a gorgeous book on the outside, but the topic also intrigues me. 

I love books that are beautifully presented and this looks like exactly that.

I cannot think of much else to say about it except I would love to get my hands on a copy soon!

Daughter of Rome by Tessa Afshar

I was sold on Tessa Afshar's writing as soon as I read Land of Silence, also by her. 

I am looking forward to reading her new book, Daughter of Rome and all of her other books!

Biblical fiction fascinates me and I have enjoyed it since first trying it out this year.

The Heart Between Us by Lindsay Harrel

I am currently reading The Secrets of Paper and Ink by Lindsay and I am really enjoying it so I think I'll be trying out some of her other books as well (especially the one set in New Zealand!).

I've got to say that I love this cover and the story sounds lovely too. 

So these are a few of the books on my TBR that I am looking forward to reading and exploring.

Are any of these on your TBR? Or have you read any of these?

keep blooming,

Book Recommendations ~ a few of my favourite books

Hello darlings!

There has been a distinct lack of bookish posts on this blog I am about to change that.
I am going to try to answer the question that we book worms dread, and that is (drumroll please!)....... "What is your favourite book?"

Of course, I have a few! One simply cannot choose only one favourite book.
So today I am going to try and narrow down my large list of favourite reads to just a few very good ones I 'd like to recommend!

(And these are by no means in any order.)

Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentiss

Genre: Classics/Christian Fic/Historical Fic

When I first began listening to this book as an audiobook, I had no idea how much I would love it. I believe it is right up there with Little Women on the list of books that all girls and young women should read! It is written in journal entries and at times almost feels like a devotional. There are so many lessons in this book and I can't recommend it enough.
I must share this slightly comical quote with you!
"Oh, speak plainly by all means! I am quite sick and tired of having the truth served up in pink cotton and scented with lavender."

A Rose for the ANZAC Boys by Jackie French

Genre: YA/Historical

I reread this again this year and I loved it just as much, if not more, than when I read it the first time(a few years ago now).
Stories set during one of the World Wars always fascinate me, even though they were sad times.
This book follows a young woman named Midge as she and her friends set up a canteen for the soldiers who pass through the railway station.
She goes on to do much more than she ever expected. I just love this story!

The Beautiful Pretender by Melanie Dickerson

Genre: Romance/Christian Fic/Fairy Tale

I actually recommend you read this whole series beginning with book one, The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest, but since this middle book is my favourite out of the three I going to talk about this one today!
First off, doesn't it just have a gorgeous cover? It is a fairy tale retelling set in the Medieval time period.
I love the characters and how in each book we get to revisit the characters from the previous book.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

Genre: Historical Fiction

Every time I think about reading this book again I get all excited! I'm planning to save it for Summer because it seems to fit with the season.
I saw the movies before I read this and while the movie is great, the book is better.
I am drawn to stories about African American's (or coloured people in general) and their lives through history. (I should maybe write a post about that!) The Help is fabulously written and the characters are really well done too. My favourites would have to be Minny and Celia!

Love in Disguise by Carol Cox

Genre: Historical/Christian Fic

If you can't tell, I love historical books. This is another of my favourites. It is a mystery with a hint of romance. I like that the romance doesn't overpower the rest of the plot.
Ellie Moore becomes a Pinkerton agent and goes undercover disguised as two different women. As the reader, you will worry that she will be discovered before she can solve the mystery keep you turning the pages until the end!

Let Me Be A Woman by Elisabeth Elliot

Genre: Christian Living/Nonfiction

I like this book because each chapter is short and are great to read before bed and Elisabeth Elliot has so much wisdom to share!

This book is full of wisdom on marriage, womanhood, discipline, and the Christian life. I wrote on my Goodreads that I thought it best suited to someone who is engaged or close to being married, but really any woman should read it.

I'd like to reread it in the near future!

Those are just a few titles I wanted to recommend to you if you are on the hunt for your next read.

Let me know if have already read some or which ones you'll be adding to your TBR!

keep blooming,