What I’m reading

I’m such a book nerd. I love to read and usually have two or three books going at once. I’m always looking for new books and authors and thought I would share what I’ve just finished reading, what I’m reading now and what’s next on my bookshelf.

Just Finished

The Fringe Hours: Making Time For You by Jessica N. Turner

Finding time to do the things I love, like reading, is a challenge. Fringe Hours shares practical tips to help you discover pockets of time throughout your day to do the things that bring you joy and renew your spirit. This book helped me identify time each day that I use to listen to podcasts, read or create. Finding time for myself always felt selfish, but Jessica Turner beautifully explains that taking time to nourish ourselves is essential and makes us better in every aspect of our lives. I can’t recommend this book enough.

For the Love: Fighting for Grace in a World of Impossible Standards by Jen Hatmaker

I adored this book. Jen Hatmaker is a pastor’s wife, mom to five kids, author, speaker and wild woman. In this book, she talks about letting go of perfection, embracing “good enough” and covers the oh-so-serious topic of leggings as pants. Each chapter is a self-contained essay, but the topics flow together well. It’s a quick read and had me laughing out loud and ready to start a supper club.

Foreign Eclairs: A White House Chef Mystery by Julie Hyzy

Sometimes you need a little escapism. Julie Hyzy’s novels are just that for me. The White House Chef series has just enough mystery to keep me guessing, without the gore of other murder mystery novels. There is a sweet romance thread throughout the series, but nothing that will make you blush. The books take you behind the scenes of Washington DC and offer a peek into life in the kitchens of the White House. This series is my favorite way to take a mental vacation.

Reading Now

Rising Strong by Brene Brown

Brene Brown’s TED talk on vulnerability and shame took my breath away and changed the way I relate to others. I’ve just started Rising Strong, but I’m hooked and can’t wait to see what lessons she has to share about getting up after a fall.

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

I feel like Brene Brown and Elizabeth Gilbert just go hand in hand. I love that the authors are friends and encourage each other on social media. I remember a friend sharing Gilbert’s book, Eat, Pray, Love, with me, whispering “it will change your life” as she placed the well-worn paperback in my hand. That book really showed me you don’t have to do what is expected of you and that sometimes the best life is lived outside expectations. Big Magic tackles creativity and I love what I’ve read so far (just the first chapter!). I look forward to diving into this one.

What’s Next

One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are by Anne Voskamp

I first heard about this book from a friend. She shared how it helped her find the everyday blessings in her life and discover joy in the routine. It sounded like a great perspective so I picked it up the last time I was at the used bookstore.

Audacious by Beth Moore

I love Beth Moore. I have attended her Tuesday night Bible studies for years (and may have cried a little when she stopped doing them) and have read most of her books over the years. I gave this book as a gift this Christmas and was delighted to receive it as well. This one won’t sit on the shelf for long.

So that’s what’s on my bookshelf these days. What are you reading?

The links above are Amazon Affiliate links. When you make a purchase after having clicked an affiliate link, I may receive a small percentage of the sale with no additional cost to you. Your prices remain the same and you’ll help financially support Outrageously Wonderful.