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Moving to the language arts department just gave me a good excuse to READ more books. I’ve always had my nose in a book, but now I can also scope them out for my students! In another exciting twist, my daughter is starting to enjoy some of my favorites. She’s currently fixated on the Maximum Ride series, and actually complimented me by saying, “Mom, you have the best book advice.” Someplace is surely frozen over. Reading book blogs is one of my favorite ways to stay current on all things bookish, so when I found the Top 10 of 2015 hop going around, I wanted to participate. Here are some of the best books I read in 2015. Click on the cover to find it on Amazon. What are your favorites of 2015?
The Secret Sister by Brenda Novak carries a Jodi Picoult-like vibe. Family bonds are questioned and tried through this story. I loved it! (Find it on Amazon)
Just when you think you’ve heard all the retellings, The Golden Braid by Melanie Dickerson comes along. This cool version of Rapunzel will have you swooning. (Just $1.99 for Kindle)
Hiding Places by Erin Healy has a unique perspective from a child’s point of view, but the situations are largely adult in nature. The story builds to a crescendo that only Healy, one of my favorite authors, could direct. (Here it is on Amazon.)
My kids and I listened to The Action Bible on the long commutes to work/school. It focuses on the action-y parts of scripture in a very condensed way. This is a good way to learn about Bible stories without falling asleep. I think it’s a complete steal for the $3.99 Kindle version.
Hannah Both Ways by Rosie Greenway was a pleasant surprise; just check out my review . The love connection, banter between characters, and all around storyline rivaled TFIOS in my heart. I’m kicking myself for giving away my copy….pretty sure I would reread this one. Find it on Amazon.
Normally I’m not big on pioneering books, but The Wood’s Edge had me up late at night, turning pages to find out what would happen. It’s great, in a Last of the Mohicans kind of way. I would choose the paperback version because of its delicious weight — this is not a skinny book.
Before I read The Innocent, it never occurred to me that some people might enter into a church simply to gain housing or sustenance. The Innocent isn’t like the other Amish or Shaker books I’ve read. Find it on Amazon.
As I said in my review, A Cry From the Dust was the biggest “WHOA” book I’ve read since Gone Girl. Seriously, this one had me with wide eyes and frantically flipping the pages. I’d read more by this author.
Allison Pittman takes a detour in her book On Shifting Sand. Unlike her other books, this one deals with some pretty tough topics. I loved the openness with which she documented the story. It’s one to enjoy on a dark, rainy night if you want to wallow in the mood. Find it on Amazon.
Sorry for bumping Esther out of the running, but I had to add this one as soon as I finished it. The Wedding Chapel is a beautiful story-within-a-story that made me totally sigh at the end. Loved it! Check it out on Amazon.
Now, she’s a runner-up…….
You’ve never heard Esther’s story like this before! Angela Hunt is profound in her version of this religious battle, disguised as a political scandal. It might just change the way you see women of the Bible. Check it out on Amazon.
So there you have my list of 10 favorite books of 2015. Have you read any of these titles? What were your favorites of this year, or do you already have a list going for 2016?
I think that I would like to read The Innocent. Looks like a good book!
I haven’t heard of any of these books, but I will have to check them out, they all sounds really good.
I agree with your daughter. I like your book reviews. They are honest and you tell us about the age group for and who might like. I really like that you say if it has adult themes or language. Really helps me choose books for my family. Thank you.
I love to read all types of books. I will have to look into some of these.
These look right up my alley. I need to check my library for these titles!!
Thanks for the nice variety of books to check into. I am always looking for a good book and it is always fun to find new authors to follow.
Thanks for posting this list – I read books so quickly that I’m always looking for recommendations
A cry from the dust sounds right up y alley!! Adding it to my must read list!! I haven’t read too much this year but I did enjoy both Dark Places and Sharp Objects!!
I think I would really like Esther!
Some very intriguing titles here. On Shifting Sand drew my eye!
I just picked up A Cry From The Dust. I love books with a plot twist. Thanks for the recommendation and review!
Let me know what you think of it, Megan!
I think I will check out the Innocent, I love Amish based books! Thanks for sharing your list!
You’re welcome, Cheryl!
I have not had enough time for reading this year. I think I would read the Innocent first. I also like paranormal sories.
I love paranormal stories, too!
Thanks for the suggestions, have heard of just a couple of these books, love finding new authors
So do I, Suzie!
These are some really good books, a couple I plan on getting
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