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I'm Shay! I’m a cookbook author, lifestyle blogger, travel agency owner, wife and mama who loves making every day special for my family.

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Mix & Match Mama

Books ·

2019 BOOKS IN REVIEW!


Okay, I’m editing this post!  I already had it typed out when I published my post yesterday, and now, I’m hopping back on to say THANK YOU!  Oh my word!  You made me cry!  (And I don’t cry!)  I was really just trying to give you a little update, but you all overwhelmed me with your kind words, prayers, love, support and encouragement.  I have no other words than “thank you”.  You have blessed me more than you will ever know. 
Now, back to my VERY favorite post of the year 😉 .
Friends, this is MY VERY FAVORITE POST OF THE ENTIRE YEAR!!!
Eeeeeeeeeeeeks!  I cannot believe it’s finally here!
Whew.
Deep breaths, Shay.
Okay.
I need to calm down and focus.
Today is not only my DECEMBER BOOK REVIEW (where I’ll review the three books I’ve read so far this month), but it’s my 2019 BOOKS IN REVIEW post where I’ll rehash some of my faves, most memorable books from 2019 and then name my TOP 3 BOOKS OF THE YEAR!
Let’s recap just a bit before we start.  Every single time I pick up a book, I think “will this one be one of my favorites” and am always amazed at the end of the year which ones were.
Here is a list of all of my other FAVORITE BOOKS of the year:
2014
#1: What Remains by Carol Radziwill
2015
#1: Bread & Wine by Shauna Niequist
#2: The Royal We by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan
2016
#1: Cancel the Wedding by Carolyn Dingman
#2: It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover
#3: A Hundred Summers by Beatriz Williams
2017
#1: One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid
#2: Unstuffed by Ruth Soukup
#3: The Secret Life of Violet Grant by Beatriz Williams
2018
#1: My Oxford Year by Julia Whelan
#2: Castle of Water by Dane Huckelbridge
#3: The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
If you’re looking for a great book to read, I CANNOT recommend these books enough.  Each and every one of them is simply fantastic and I could re-read all of them again and again.
Now, before we start recapping the 54 books I read in 2019, let’s take a look at the three I finished this December All three of these books came from recommendations YOU gave me in my October and November book reviews and all three were FANTASTIC!  You ladies always know what I should read!!!  I loved each of them starting with…
…Maybe You Should Talk to Someone.  I absolutely loved this witty, engaging, heartwarming, unexpected, funny, sincere, clever and delightful memoir by therapist Lori Gottlieb.  I didn’t want it to end.  In this self-deprecating and honest book, Gottlieb (a therapist) finds herself in therapy and her story comes to life as she talks about the experience of being the patient verses being the one on the other couch in such a laugh out loud, funny way.  One chapter will be about herself as the patient and then the next chapter will be about herself and one of her patients.  She keeps the memoir moving as she toggles back and forth between these two types of relationships.  To be honest, I laughed out loud too many times to count, but I teared up twice as she and two of her patients sort through life.  I thought the added douse of fertility issues and motherhood chapters she weaved in the book were fantastic too.  I want to be her friend.  I want to be her patient.  I want to be the first person to read her next book (gee, I hope she writes another one!).  I think this book is suitable for everyone…whether you’ve been to therapy or not.  It’s more about relationships, vulnerabilities and why we are the way we are (and the pain that sometimes causes that).  I really considered this one to be my THIRD FAVORITE BOOK OF THE YEAR.  In the end it’s not, but that’s how much I enjoyed it.
The second book I read this month was We Met in December.  Awe.  So good.  Where do I begin?  This is the perfect British chick-lit book about a girl who moves into a great big house in London with other flatmates only to discover she has a crush on one of them…in December, of course!   This book was very similar to One Day in December (which I read this time last year) as it’s not Christmas-y, so I absolutely think you can read it any time this next year.  It begins and ends during the holiday season, but the majority of the book is about these people as they go through the year.  I loved all of the British references, I loved the whole cast of characters, I felt for the main character, I liked the many layers, I loved how it was so easy to read, and I was happy every time I picked it up and then set it down.  This was just a delight to read.  Upbeat, charming, adorable.
I will always remember that I read A Woman is No Man.  In fact, it probably should be my third favorite book of the year.  I loved this book that much, but most importantly, this book spoke to me and left a lasting impression on me.  If you want to read a book…I MEAN, REALLY READ A BOOK in 2020 that will make you think, that will open your eyes, that will stick with you for a long time, read this one.  This is a fictional story about three Palestinian women living in Brooklyn…and it’s deep, it’s messy, it’s horrific, it’s sad, it is probably really relatable to many women here in the US, and I’m still reeling from some of it.  The book goes back and forth between two different time periods as three Palestinian women make a life in Brooklyn.  This book is about secrets, shame, depression, violence, abuse, motherhood, sisterhood, hope, education, survival…all of it.  I was very moved by this one and hope many of you pick it up to read.  I even went a little nuts after I finished this book and started reading more about the author and her story…and it was really hard for me to pick up another book as I knew it wouldn’t be the same experience for me as this one was.  Experience.  That’s a good word.  This book was an experience.  Loved it.  Read it.  I’m so happy I ended 2019 on it.
So, that’s what I read in December.  Here is the complete list of the 54 books I read this year…
2019 Reads…
(Just click on the month to read my review.)

January
One Day in December by Josie Silver
The Spy and The Traitor by Ben Macintyre
Verity by Colleen Hoover
Matchmaking for Beginners by Maddie Dawson
The Mother-in-Law by Sally Hepworth
Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty

February
The Tattooist of Auschwitzby Heather Morris
It’s Not Supposed To Be This Way by Lysa TerKeurst
In Pieces by Sally Field
The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory

March
An Anonymous Girl by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
The Accidental Beauty Queenby Teri Wilson
Girl, Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis
Vertical Marriage by Dave and Ann Wilson
I Owe You One by Sophie Kinsella

April
How Hard Can It Be? by Allison Pearson
99 Percent Mine by Sally Thorne
It’s Always the Husband by Michele Campbell
Maidby Stephanie Land

May
Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Slightly South of Simple by Kristy Woodson Harvey
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

June
My Favorite Half-Night Stand by Christina Lauren
The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer
Meet Cute by Helena Hunting
The Secret to Southern Charm by Kristy Woodson Harvey
Summer of ’69 by Elin Hilderbrand
The Southern Side of Paradise by Kristy Woodson Harvey
The Bride Test by Helen Hoang

July
The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren
The Lost Husband by Katherine Center
Surfside Sisters by Nancy Thayer
Make or Break by Catherine Benetto
The Golden Hour by Beatriz Williams

August
Sunset Beach by Mary Kay Andrews
You’ve been Volunteered by Laurie Gelman
The Other Womanby Sandie Jones
Three Womenby Lisa Taddeo

September
Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren
Night Road by Kristin Hannah
Things You Save in a Fire by Katherine Center
A Stranger in the House by Shari Lapena

October
American Royals by Katherine McGee
Becomingby Michelle Obama
Inside Out by Demi Moore
What Happens in Paradise by Elin Hilderband
Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane

November
Let it Snowby Nancy Thayer
Christmas in Paris by Anita Hughes
Christmas Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella
Seven Days of Us by Francesca Hornak

December
Maybe You Should Talk To Someone by Lori Gottlieb
We Met in December by Rosie Curtis
A Woman is No Man by Etaf Rum

So, out of the bunch?  Which ones did I love the most?  Let’s recap a bit before I get to that…

This year might have been my biggest year of highs and lows in the reading department.  I read some really amazing books (A Woman is No Man!) and some horrible books (I’m talking to YOU, Verity!).  My two favorite books of the year were EASY for me to pick.  From the minute I put them down after the last page, I knew “they were the ones”, but that third place spot was harder for me.  I read several that could have easily been my third favorite book of the year.  I know this is going to look excessive, but I truly considered all of these for third place and therefore, want you to consider them too!

Here we go…

A Woman is No Man: Yes, read it.  Today.

Maybe You Should Talk To Someone: The best memoir I’ve read all year!

The Spy and The Traitor: I remember where I was when I read one part of this true story that made me physically shake uncontrollably.  I was so nervous about what was happening in the book that I was reading and shaking.  I loved this one so much that Andrew read it too this year.  Fantastic!

The Mother-in-Law: I adore all Sally Hepworth books, but this one right here, I didn’t see coming.  Brilliant.

Summer of ’69: Awe!  My favorite author, Elin Hilderbrand, almost made it into my TOP THREE (something that’s never happened before!).  I was weary of this one at first as I typically don’t like books set outside of present day, but I loved this one!!  Loved it!

Night Road: I have thought about this novel so many times since I put it down.  Even though it’s a work of fiction, I have put myself in many of the characters’ positions since reading it.  What would I do?  How would I act?  How would I handle that?  This one has long since stuck with me.

American Royals: This absolutely would have been my third favorite book of the year had it had one more chapter.  Or maybe three more?  I loved this story!  I thought it was clever, original and just plain FUN!  The end is abrupt because…apparently, there is a sequel, so that’s what kicked it out of the third spot for me, but if you’re just looking for some great chick-lit, here you go!

Ask Again, Yes: This one has stuck with me too.  I was a little hesitant to dive into this one because it seemed heavier than I normally like, but friends, I loved it.  This story was gripping and raw, and I’m so happy you encouraged me to try it.

So, those are my runners up for third place this year.  You should go ahead and read them ALL!

Now, are you ready to see which three books made my faves?!

Without further ado, MY THIRD FAVORITE BOOK OF 2019 IS…

…DAISY JONES & THE SIX!

Eeeeeeeks!  I loved this one!!!!  Now, we all know I love author Taylor Jenkins Reid (her book One True Loves was my very favorite book of 2017!), but this novel right here was nothing short of an experience!  Between the quirky and original way it was written (interview style, not like an actual novel) to the way the author included original lyrics to music in the story, I found it BRILLIANT!  I thought the characters were interesting, complicated, original, funny, serious, real…all of it.  It took me a hot minute to get the tempo of reading this (because it does not read like any other book), but once I did, I was sucked in.  Part of what makes one of my books “a top three” is how often I recommend it to family/friends/readers and this one right here, I’ve recommended a hundred times. You can read my original review HERE from May, but friends, this is a wild ride with Daisy Jones and The Six that you don’t want to miss!

Okay, this next book immediately jumped to the top of my list and never one time wavered this year.

My SECOND FAVORITE BOOK OF 2019 is…

…THE TATTOOIST OF AUSCHWITZ.

Without any doubts.

Everyone should read this book.

You can read my full review HERE of this book from February, but friends, I cannot say enough things about this true story.  I loved this book so much and talked about it so often that Andrew read this one too in 2019.  This is a terrible story but filled with so much hope and perseverance.  This story is a true testament to what humans are capable of…both good and evil.  I cannot imagine you reading this and not walking away at least a little changed.  It was the kind of story that you felt honored to read.  Love, love, love.

Whew!  How do I follow that?  WITH MY FAVORITE BOOK OF 2019!

The minute I finished this one, it flew to the top of the list and never one time budged.

MY FAVORITE BOOK OF 2019 is…

…THE THINGS WE CANNOT SAY!!

Oh my gosh!  Where do I even begin?!  I loved this novel so much!!  It was the most unexpected book I read all year, and I adored it!!!  You can read my full review HERE, but this fictional story toggles back and forth between WWII and present day…and they’re both equally fantastic.  This story is tragic and beautiful, it’s raw, it’s complex, it’s amazing, it’s surprising, it’s about hope, moving on, letting go, finding out why, accepting the past AND accepting the present…it’s just phenomenal.  When one of your very favorite authors (I’m talking to you, Sally Hepworth!) tells you to read a book YOU READ THE BOOK and because of that recommendation I read and loved this book the most in 2019.  I hope you all read The Things We Cannot Say!

That’s it!  That’s a wrap up and review of all of the books I read this year!  I would venture to say that 85% of them came as recommendations from YOU, so thank you so much!!!

Now, I’m getting my list together of books to read the rest of this month and into January, so here’s what I want to know…WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU READ IN 2019?  That’s going to hopefully help me find my favorite book of 2020.

Thank you for reading with me this year!  Thank you for always making these posts so much fun!!  Thank you, thank you, thank you for everything!  I will see you back here tomorrow for our last What’s Up Wednesday of 2019! xo

To see the complete list of books I read in 2015 (all 63 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2016 (all 62 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2017 (all 62 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2018 (all 61 of them), click here.
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Comments

  1. Erika Slaughter says

    Can I drop off my Christmas cards for you to address today so I can do nothing but read? DEAL?

  2. Taylor says

    Shay I have to say next to this post, my favorite post you did all year was Andrew’s day in the life!! When can we get another Andrew post?! Haha.
    Yes, yes, yes to the Tattooist of Auschwitz. It is a contender for one of the best books I’ve ever read. Have you read the sequel, Cilka’s Journey, yet? It was also so good!

      • Becky says

        Love Your Book Reviews. In part I used them to decide which books I take on vacation. I just returned after a week on the beautiful Norwegian Encore. Oh my what a ship! We had a wonderful relaxing week!

    • Susan says

      Yes, you should definitely read Cilka’s Journey. I liked it better than the Tattooist. It’s heartbreaking but a really good read.

      I’d also recommend The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See. It made me think of your two youngest girls, especially Madeley. As an adoptive mom, I think it’ll really strike a chord with you.

      Happy reading!

  3. Jessica says

    I love your book review post and especially this one!!! I just finished reading The Paris Orphan and it is sooooooo good!!!!!!!! Definitely add it to your list for 2020!

    Continued prayers for you and your sweet girls!!

  4. Jenn says

    So 2019 was a year of the past! All the top three were WW2 and the 60’s. I’m surprised for someone who doesn’t like present day! ?? Thanks for the recs, can’t wait to dive in to some of these!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      ME TOO!!!!!! Bahahaha! Me. Too. I think if anything, this year has taught me that I need to step out of my comfort zone more often. The book I’m currently reading is also not present day, and I was tempted not to read it because of that been then talked myself out of it.

      • Elisabeth Hogue says

        The Tattooist of Auschwitz was my favorite book this year! I just finished the sequel Cilka’s Journey. It was harder to read but still a compelling story!

    • Kristine says

      Love this post! I recently finished The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall and really enjoyed it! It’s about faith, love, and friendship. Would love to hear your thoughts on it!

  5. Eileen says

    Love this post and love that I read your top 3 (2 of them were in my top too!). One of my other favorites of the year was We Came Here to Forget by Andrea Dunlop. So good!

    • Charlotte Place says

      This is my favorite post all year of anybody & everybody, so THANK YOU!
      Just finished Christmas Shopaholc, nearly put it down twice but so glad I stayed with it–loved it!
      My favorite book this year was Giver of Stars by JoJo Motes. Sooo good!
      Merry Christmas & Happy Reading!

  6. Kimberly C says

    The only book that I read this year that wasn’t from one of your book reviews was the Astronaut Wives Club. I loved it! There are several from your book reviews this year that are also on my Christmas list ♥️? I love how much you read and wish I was as disciplined to do the same. I am getting better though about reading in my free time ?
    Happy Tuesday!

    • Kimberly C says

      Also need to ask — where is your plaid robe from you keep wearing in your instastories? It looks like it feel lovely? And perfect for the season ?

  7. Whitney says

    Have you heard they are making Daisy Jones and The Six into a mini-series? They just cast Elvis Presley’s granddaughter as Daisy.

  8. Jerilynn says

    If you haven’t listened to the Tattooist on Audible…OMG! Yo truly must! The narrator is amazing and truly made it feel like a real life experience. So so good!

  9. Carrie Tinsley says

    I highly recommend listening to the Daisy Jones and the Six audio book. Each character is read by a different actor including Jennifer Beals, Judy Greer, and Benjamin Brett. It feels like a real rockumentary. So good!
    Also, you would love The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes. It’s in my to 3 for the year for sure!

    • Suzy Bennett says

      Definitely do the audio. I was fortunate to hear Taylor Jenkins Reid speak about writing the book. Lots of research involved, fascinating!

    • Lynelle Jeppesen says

      Carrie Tinsley- YES. I listened on audio and it was an EXPERIENCE! I loved it. I tell everyone if you loved VH1’s Behind the Music, you would love this book on audio.

  10. Katie says

    Some of my favorites from this year were similar to yours (Daisy Jones, Ask Again, Yes, One Day in December). I’m currently reading The Most Fun We Ever Had and it feels like a Netflix show I’m binge watching as I love the family drama. I also highly, highly recommend Evvie Drake Starts Over- one of my favorites from the year- as well as Beartown (can’t wait to read the sequel), Miracle Creek, and Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating. Good year of reading! I have read way more this second half of the year than ever after getting my Kindle on Prime Day in July!

    • Lindsay D says

      I loved Miracle Creek!!!!!!! I couldn’t get into The Most Fun We Ever Had but maybe I’ll try again. I loved Daisy Jones, Ask Again Yes, was so so on One Day in December. Really loved Evvie Drake Starts Over too.

  11. Dena says

    Snow day here in CT so I’m up early with my coffee and unexpectedly find your 2019 book review! You just made my day! Your great reco’s during the year have inspired me to read 48 books so far! I took up knitting in Oct and haven’t a book since – boo! I REALLY want to make it an even 50 for the year and I have Let it Snow and A Woman is No Man on my table. I love your book reviews – keep it up! Merry Christmas!

  12. Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says

    Had such a great time reading your post! I love your recommendations – your reviews are so thorough and helpful! 🙂
    –
    Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
    http://charmainenyw.com

  13. Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says

    Ahhh this makes me want to sit down and start reading right now! So many good ones!! I really loved Living Danishly by Helen Russell! That’s my top book of the year and I really liked Spoken From The Heart (Laura Bush’s memoir)! Can’t wait to get reading over the holiday break! Sending prayers for you and your girls!! Xo

    Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams

  15. Anne-Marie says

    The Things We Keep was by far my favorite too!
    And We Met In December is $1.99 kindle and A Woman Is No Man is only $2.99!

  16. Crissy Fabian says

    Shay have you read The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society? I think you did a post on the movie but the book is so much better!

  17. Melonie Z. says

    Read Cilka’s Journey by Heather Morris! Cilka is a character from the Tattooist of Auschwitz.

  18. Leah says

    I just finished a fantastic thriller that kept me hooked throughout the whole story! It’s called “The a Turn of the Key” by Ruth Ware!

    I’ve read 65 books so far this year (I’m 5 away from my reading goal) and I would say that book was my favorite book of the year.

  19. Sherry Smith says

    I love this book review! My favorite author used to be Danielle Steele I think I have read almost all her books . That she wrote in the early 90’s. Couldn’t find another author I enjoyed and I found all these lovely books that you suggested. Elin Hilderbrand is now one of my favs!

  20. Brandi says

    I just read one of my top favorites of the year last week and it was so unexpected! Wildflower Hill by Kimberly Freeman. It is surprisingly deep and hits on issues of love, family secrets and racism. The majority of the book takes place in Australia which is fun too!

  21. Beth Miller says

    I’ve read almost 100 books this years and my favorite will be The Flatshare! I’m currently reading Cilka’s Journey which is the sequel to the Tattooist! Emily Ley’s newest book was wonderful too!

  22. Stacy says

    Daisy Jones was my favorite- listened to on Audible during my commute. The voices they chose are so perfect so I recommend listening to this one- it’s fabulous!

  23. Laurie says

    Your top pick is spot on! That book spoke to me on so many levels. I am a Special Ed teacher that works with Autism students and the character’s struggles are authentically documented. This book led me to seek out our families roots as well. Thanks for doing this each month. I can’t wait to read some of your other recommendations!

  24. Marie Curcio says

    I love love loved We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter. It was a true story of a family’s journey through WW2. It read like a fiction novel and I had to keep reminding myself that it was all true.

  25. Lauren says

    This is a fantastic review. I have read many and look forward to reading some I haven’t in 2020. I usually agree with you with all books… except Verity! 🙂

  26. Katherine McEwen says

    I’m so glad you highlighted A Woman is No Man! It’s such an amazing piece of writing, and the writer deserves every accolade. She is actually married to a high school friend of mine and is one of the nicest, most humble people. Also, The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a great read…I actually chose to teach that and Educated this year in my college English class, and my students loved it also—that’s a win!

  27. Lauren Belschner says

    The Things We Cannot Say is my top book of the year too!! Thanks to your recommendation!! Such an incredible story.

  28. Kelly says

    The Things We Cannot Say was the best book I’ve read all year! So grateful for all of your recommendations!

  29. Joanne says

    Educated, The Things We Cannot Say, and Driving Miss Norma would probably be my top 3 picks of the year (though I read 90+ books this year so my favorites book post is narrowed down to my top 12– one for each month of the year).

    • Natashajk says

      I’ve read over 200 books this year and people are always asking me what my favourites are. I like the idea of picking one favourite for each month. I might have to do that. Thanks for the suggestion 🙂

  30. Amanda Wilson says

    My fave book of 2019 was Where the Crawdads Sing. I don’t think I have ever read a book not off your recommendations lol. I can NOT wait untill Christmas break to settle in and get some reading in!! Have you read Angela’s Ashes?

  31. Ashley says

    I think you would love anything by Kate Morton! Similar to Kristin Hannah and some of the other historical fiction books you have liked. Her books go back and forth between present day and past. Ariel Lawhon books are also in this category and are amazing! If you like Christian fiction-try Tessa Afshar-In the Field of Grace is wonderful! For non fiction-Fall and Rise The story of 9/11 by Mitchell Zuckoff was fantastic. Hard to read but incredibly well done. And for your kids-try The Green Ember series by S.D Smith. Its a middle grade series that is SO good! ☺️

  32. Sharon A says

    So many of your favorites are mine too! LOVE book review days!! Off to add a few more to my list! 🙂

  33. Paula says

    Best review! I can’t wait to add to my list.

    Since you are a Kindle lover now, me too btw, do you have certain books you will buy hard back and keep?

    Also…any Bible Study/Devotional recommendations for your self/kids/couples in the new year?

  34. Lisa Bourgeois says

    I LOVE this list!!! I can’t wait to curl up and start to devour some of these. I am currently reading Daisy Jones and The Six & One Day in December…❤️
    Merry Christmas to you and your precious family!
    Xoxo Lisa

  35. Jamie says

    The best book that I read in 2019 is “102 Minutes: The Untold Story of the Fight to Survive Inside the Twin Towers” by Jim Dwyer and Kevin Flynn. It was exceptional, I highly recommend.

  36. Alicia Worth says

    Ms. Shay and family… I loved your vulnerable post and insta-stories yesterday. I have been an avid reader for years. I have 2 under 2 and some days are HARD. You have been honest about some of your hard days or seasons but it was refreshing to be able to pray through the trenches you are currently going through. We are praying for a healthy 2020 for you and your family. Cheers mama! You got this!

  37. Rachel says

    I read so many books from your recommendations and also love the Tattoist of Auschwitz!! But my absolute favorite book of the year was The Girl Behind the Red Rope by Ted And Rachel Dekker. It actually flew to one of my favorite books of all time. So unexpected and so so good. Would highly recommend!!!

  38. Mandi says

    Thank you for all your wonderful book suggestions — I have thought about asking my library to start a book table with all your suggestions. After having a little one, I thought I wouldn’t be able to read for pleasure again (all things Pete the Cat were in my repertoire), but your selections and encouragement have spurred me on — thank you. And prayers for your family’s recovery and medical answers.

  39. Whitney says

    I read “The Things We Cannot Say” at your recommendation and was floored by it. I actually asked for a print copy (I have a kindle) because I loved it so much and need to lend it out to everyone I know. Thank you!!

  40. Beth says

    Blessings to you and your family sweet Shay. What a lot for a momma to deal with! You know…the Christmas season doesn’t end with Christmas…the Christmas season begins with Christmas Day. Before that is our preparation for the coming during Advent. Our family keeps our tree and decor until the Epiphany on January 6; that’s when the “12 days of Christmas” end.

  41. Melissa Terry says

    Your top 3 are in my top list of the year as well. I LOVED The Things We Cannot Say…wow, that was a good one! Thank you for all the great recommendations this year as always. Reading brings me so much joy and I love seeing what others are reading too.

  42. Megan says

    I would recommend What Made Maddy Run by Kate Fagan if you haven’t read that one yet. Heartbreaking story, but very well done.

    • Julie says

      I agree! I read this one and felt the same way. Just grabbed it at the library on a whim but was glad I did. I feel like it is a good one for parents to read.

  43. Ani Martinez says

    Yes! Completely agree with your choice of top 2 books (I haven’t read Daisy Jones, but that will be remedied shortly). The Things We Cannot Say was such a powerful book, it made me cry – tears pouring down my face crying. LOVED it! Looking forward to new recommendations in 2020. Sending prayers of health your way.

  45. Yvonne says

    Shay, thank you so much for your book review! My niece and I always refer to your review if we need a new book to read! We appreciate the time and effort you put into recapping the books! Please consider reading The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez, awesome reviews on Amazon, I really think you would like it!
    Take care, blessings to you and your family this holiday season~

  48. Kathy Lang says

    I look forward to this post all year! It’s like the excitement of Christmas morning when we were kids! ha! I also loved The Things We Cannot Say, So much so, that I read two other books by Kelly Rimmer right after you recommended this one. Me Without You and A Mother’s Confession are so incredibly good, and I highly recommend them!

  49. Allison Ferrell says

    Read the entire Harry Potter series. LOL! No, but I’m serious. Year 1 to Year 7. They are SO SO good, I could read them over and over and over. I have read the entire series through two times and will again soon. They are GOOD!

  50. Allison Ferrell says

    But if you’re not into a children’s series (laughy cry emoji)…. read The Sound of Gravel by Ruth Wariner!

  51. Chelsey says

    Ah! I always love your book reviews and this one did not disappoint…I added several to my “Books To Read” list on Amazon.

    A quick note you might want to share with your readers: The Kindle version of A Woman Is No Man is currently on sale for $2.99!!

  52. Jen Chrysler says

    Praying for your family! I get so excited whenever I wake up and see it’s a book review post- especially the best of the year! I read 60 last year and am going to be a few over 60 for this year. We love a lot of the same books, so I went through my GoodReads to see my absolute favorites that you missed and have to catch up on!!

    The Hunting Party- Lucy Foley (This takes place around NYE, so it’s perfect for this time of year!)
    City of Girls- Elizabeth Gilbert
    Know My Name- Chanel Miller
    Mrs. Everything- Jennifer Weiner
    The Favorite Daughter- Kaira Rouda
    Paper Ghosts- Julia Heaberlin (perfect for us Texas girls!)

  53. Karen says

    A good cry is sometimes the best gift! 🙂 Continued prayers, Shay! It’s encouraging to hear that you have bad days like the rest of us. However, I’m hoping you have a long string of awesome days coming your way!

  54. Susie M says

    I didn’t read close to 54 books this year, but my favorite by far that I read this year was “The Things We Cannot Say”! I couldn’t agree more. So so so so so good.

  55. Erin Smith says

    You’re not alone- this is also MY favorite post of the year. Yay!! Thanks for the book recs! So question- I’m about to be in the car ALOT over Christmas. Any that you think would be particularly good on audio?

  56. Kayla A Bruce says

    I LOVE this post! So many great suggestions. Just downloaded Daisy Jones on Audible to listen to! This year I read 19 books (for 2019) I think my favorites reads of the year were The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan and Bringing up Bebe by Pamela Druckerman. The second is an American woman living in France talking about motherhood– kind of instructional, kind of memoirish. So interesting!

  57. Julie says

    The Things We Cannot Say was absolutely my favorite book of 2019 too! Just amazing. I’m reading “Regretting You” right now, Colleen Hoover’s latest. It’s really good so far and kind of reminds me of ‘Night Road’ in the sense that the main characters are teenagers. I think you would enjoy! I was surprised to find I absolutely loved “Beartown.’ It’s about a small hockey town (but really, more about the families who live there) and it was a cozy read that just sucks you in. Not my typical type of book, but truly enjoyed. Happy reading and I hope the rest of your week gets better-sounds like yesterday was a doozy! Take good care.

  58. Bronte Reed says

    If you want a light/funny/heartwarming book, I recommend Red, White, and Royal Blue. It’s a cute story and easy to get through.

  59. Abbie says

    Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult amazing!!!
    Also I think you would love, Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys. Reminds me of Tattoist of Auschwitz. Her books are amazing! They are fiction but based on true historical events.

  60. Kim says

    The book posts are my favorite every month. You got me reading again now that my children are older (9 and 7 years old). I read 42 books this year, most recommendations from you. Thank you!!

  61. Elyse Hitscherich says

    THESE ARE LITERALLY FAVS OF MINE THIS YEAR! We are very much on the same wavelength!! Thank you for all the suggestions this year!

  62. Jayne says

    My favorites were all non-fiction/memoir. Educated by Tara Westover. I’m Still Here by Austin Channing Brown. The Moment of Lift by Melinda Gates.

  63. Jill says

    Eeeks! I squealed with delight when I saw your favorite of the year because it’s my favorite of the year, too! I have recommended “The Things We Cannot Say” too many times to count! It’s one that I just can’t stop thinking about, even months after reading it. A true gem! LOVE this post of yours…..thanks for always sharing so many great books to add to our TBRs!

  64. Jeanelle says

    I have read/listened to 46 books this year. I hit a wall in November and haven’t read anything yet this month but I plan to get at least one in! My favorite books this year were Daisy Jones and the Six (the audio is fantastic) and The Great Alone (both books I would willingly read again and whose characters I couldn’t stop thinking about.) My #3 spot would be any number of books – Educated, One True Loves, Where the Crawdads Sing, Last Mrs. Parrish, Things You Save in a Fire…so basically every book you’ve ever recommended. Thank you so much for inspiring me to read more – I love it! Saying lots of prayers for you and your family too – so grateful for the bright spot you are here/on Instagram. Thank you for the light you bring to the world and Merry Christmas!!

  65. MelanieL says

    I’m on my 15th book of the year and I’m pretty darn proud of myself for keeping my goal to “read” this year! I’ve gotten a lot of my choices from your favorites and I’ve enjoyed each one! I’m currently reading Cancel the Wedding.
    Thank you for these posts each and every month! Enjoy your day!

  67. Susy says

    Totally down a different path, but so humorous!
    For anyone that loves our National Parks as much as we do. . . . And is married! And hikes!
    Dear Bob and Sue 1, DB&S 2 and Dories Ho!

  68. Ryan Caraway says

    Definitely add We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter to your 2020 list based on your love for The Tattooist of Auschwitz – INCREDIBLE!

  69. Staci Patyrak says

    It is really hard for me to pick favorites looking back at the variety from light to heavy. I’ve read 28 books this year (my goal was two per month). So, I’ll separate into lighter fare and heavy.

    Top three heavy
    3. Beyond Belief: My Secret Life in Scientology and My Harrowing Escape by Jenna Miscavige-Hill
    2. Tattooist of Auchwitz by Heather Morris
    1. This is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel

    Top two light
    2. The Good Luck Girls of Shipwreck Lane by Kelly Harms
    1. You’ve Been Volunteered by Laurie Gelman

    LOVE all of your book reviews!

  70. Stacia Whitney says

    I LOVE all your book reviews because you give me so many good ideas as what to read next. But this post is my favorite of the year!?

    Many prayers for you and your sweet family.

  71. Melanie says

    Maybe You Should Talk to Someone was the biggest surprise of the books I’ve read this year and SUCH a departure from what I normally read. I absolutely loved it…cried like a baby in parts of it and then laughed until I cried in other parts. I hope she writes another one too! Thank you for the list…I’ve got many titles to add to my TBR list. Merry Christmas!

  72. Katie Hahn says

    I look forward to diving into some of these books! Have you read “It’s Not Supposed to be This Way” by Lysa TerKeurst? It’s a Christian based book on how to cope with life’s disappointments big or small. I think it is a great book for everyone and just thought I would recommend!

  74. Laura says

    I read a few of the same books as you this year. I too loved The Tatooist and The Mother in Law. I also really liked The Summer of 69. I always look forward to your reviews.

  75. Patty Anderson says

    Priceless by Tom Davis…very thought provoking and really left me thinking about life and how I spend my time and resources.

  76. Kelsee says

    Out of the 57 book I’ve read so far this year, American Dirt, Where the Forest Meets the Stars, My Lovely Wife, Verity (sorry, Shay haha), and Swear on This Life were my top 5. I’m going to put your top 3 on my to read list because I haven’t read them yet!

    Also make sure you check out Cilka’s Journey. Its by the same author as Tattooist of Auschwitz and it was incredible!

    • Natashajk says

      I read Where The Forest Meets the Stars after reading through the comments on one of Shay’s other posts. It was a beautiful book and I recommend it to everyone! That is definitely a top book for me this year. (And I’ve read over 200 books.)

  77. Kim says

    Thanks for this post! I have been in a bit of a reading slump this month. I think it is the busyness of the holidays making me feel like I don’t have time to read, but over Christmas Break I plan to get into some of the holiday books you mentioned. I just put a couple on hold at the library and added a few more titles to my Amazon wish list. As far as my favorite books of the year, many of them you already mentioned. One that you didn’t that I really liked was Red, White, and Royal Blue. I think since you liked the Royal We and American Royals you might enjoy that one as well.

  78. Lindsay says

    I have found myself only reading books from your recommendations!! The Things We Cannot Say was such an incredible story. I know it was fictional, but I was SOBBING at the end. I loved it. It is so heartbreaking to relive certain events in the past, but also so encouraging to know people are capable of such incredible sacrifices. (I know this one was fiction, but it was a story that felt so real!)

  79. Ashley J says

    The Tattoist of Auschwitz and Daisy Jones were my top 2 as well!!! Loved both! I am currently reading (well, audiobook) Maybe You Should Talk to Someone and love it! I wish she had a podcast I would listen every day! The Things We Cannot Say is next on my list and can’t wait because I love those types of books (re: Lilac Girls and The Nightengale which were favs of 2018). Anyways…did you know Reese is making Daisy Jones into an Amazon Prime series!? So excited! It needs to be out yesterday!

  82. Allison says

    Love , Love that you do this book list! Thank you for the reviews and suggestions. Especially helpful for someone
    that doesn’t get to read that much but has family that does… So I always know a great gift to get them!

    One special request for you in 2020… Can you please put a content rating on the book review at the end?? I have a
    teenage daughter that LOVES to read and it is always hard finding books for her. It’s so helpful to know your
    general rating (G, PG, PG-13 or R) so I know what I can suggest for her! It doesn’t have to be exact, but a general idea is super handy to have! Thanks 🙂 And if anyone has any recommendations that are good clean fun please let me know! She loved American Royals!!

    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year…

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Yes! I always try to make sure I include if it’s R, but yes! I will try and add my own personal ratings to each book.

    • Carly Webb says

      Allison-
      I have a 14 year old girl and I am CONSTANTLY searching out appropriate books for her! A favorite author we found this fall is Ally Carter. She has a lot of different books! Other authors we found are Kasie West, Jenna Welch Evans and Janette Rallison. She also likes The False Prince series, Shadow and Bone series, and the Cinder series.

      I do a lot of searching on Pinterest for “clean teen fiction” and check them out from the public library for her to try. It’s hard because YA can be SO, SO inappropriate these days ?.

  83. Sam says

    I have to post another comment in support of Cilka’s Journey. I didn’t actually love the Tattooist but I loved the second book. Check it out!

  84. Leiah says

    I love referring to your book review posts when I need to pick out a new book! This isn’t book related, but have you watched the Netflix Breaking Bad movie spinoff El Camino yet?? Soooo good

  85. Kelly Rimmer says

    What! Wow! Thank you so much Shay. I’m absolutely honored that you connected with The Things We Cannot Say so much!! You’ve made my day ?

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      No, you WHAT! WOW! YOU made my day!! Thank you so much for commenting!! I absolutely loved your book! It was such a privilege to read that story, and I’m very thankful to YOU. I hope you and your family have a very Merry Christmas! I can’t wait to read what’s coming next!!

  86. Ariel says

    My two FAVORITE books of 2019 were Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens, and Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng.

  87. Tracey Anderson says

    Night Road is one of my favourite books!
    My three favourites this year were
    The Book Thief by Markus Zusak,
    Also like you, The Things We Cannot Say, and finally A Lifetime Of Impossible Days by debut Australian author Tabitha Bird. This book was phenomenal and I’d urge you to fit it in before the end of the year.

  88. Ralinn says

    What a great recap. I’ve read many of the books you listed over the year. The three for December are on my list and will me purchasing soon.

  89. Amanda Glass says

    You must check out This Is Not How It Ends by Rochelle Weinstein. OMG soooo good. All the feels. Merry Christmas and Happy Reading!

  90. Janet says

    Thank you for your monthly book reviews. I have read and enjoyed so many of the ones you have reviewed. I have recommended many of them to friends as well. I enjoy all your posts, but, your book reviews are some of my favorites. You and your girls remain in my prayers and I hope each day finds you gaining more strength and answers to the girls’ issues.

  91. Amanda says

    The things we cannot say is sitting on my nightstand right now! I’m just finishing up Christmas shopaholic. I can’t wait to read it now that I know it was your #1 for the year!

  92. Brooke Johnson says

    We have similar taste in books, I enjoyed so many of the ones you mentioned. Thanks for the great reviews! Other books I loved and recommend are The Storyteller’s Secret, After the End, Cilka’s Journey, The Alice Network, and Dragonfly.

  93. Kate says

    How are you reading all these books? On a kindle or do you actually order all of them? I am inspired to read more – thanks! X

  94. Megan says

    Know My Name by Chanel Miller is sooo good! It’s her story about going through the Brock Turner rape and trial. It just came out in September.
    Also Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson is amazing. Just saw they made this into a movie coming out on December 25th too!

  95. Sarah says

    I highly recommend “Fall & Rise” by Mitchell Zuckoff. It’s about how the events of 9/11 unfolded from the air and from the ground, along with details from family and friends of victims, and survivors of 9/11. Truly an incredible read.

  96. Rayne Osborn says

    Great post! I recommend The Giver is the Stars and The Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek-both were fabulous! They are on the same subject that I knew little about but found fascinating. The characters, story, and writing are wonderful!

  97. Sharon S says

    Highly recommend reading “Paris Letters” by Janice MacLeod
    I just read it it one day along a beach vacation
    Based on the authors year in Paris when she quit her fast life job in LA.

  98. TAMMY MOSS says

    Etaf lives in my hometown and just opened a small, quaint coffee shop. She is so sweet and wonderful!!!
    I am glad you enjoyed her book!!! I will have to tell her my favorite blogger gave her an excellent book review!
    Merry Christmas!

  99. Amanda Clarkson says

    If you loved The Tattooist of Auschwitz you must read Cilka’s Journey! Same author, focusing on a character who was in Tattooist of Auschwitz.

  100. Kelly says

    I read your top two this year – I assume at your recommendation from your monthly posts – and loved them both, too!

    I just finished The Stationery Shop by Marjan Kamali. I think if you liked those other ones so much, you’ll like that one too! It’s a very moving story about a young woman from Iran, and a great romance story (but I told my husband he should read it too – not just chick lit!)

    Thanks for sharing ideas! I’m going to put Daisy Jones on hold at the library!

  101. Alyssa Lindquist says

    You have the best recommendations for books, Shay! I’ve read a lot of what you’ve read but one suggestion, maybe as a summer read, is Montauk by Nicola Harrison. It read like The Secret Life of Violet Grant. Thanks, Shay!

  102. Laura says

    Favorite post of the year!!!! You need to read Cilkas Journey, I think I liked it a tiny bit more than the Tatooist of Aushwitz. Such a beautiful story of women friendship in the most harrowing circumstances. On a lighter note I think you would love Evvie Drake Starts Over. Cute romantic book with a good story. Praying for you and your family. As I have reminded myself this month, this too shall pass.

  103. Kara says

    Your book posts are one of my favorites to read… I have a mile long list of books I want to read- always! Tell me again- what are your reading habits – how do you find your time to read? I’m ve tried different ways over the years to read and I’m always interested in the way others get it all in! I’m an elementary school teacher – my kids are 19 and 21 so that helps! … but like anyone life is still busy.

  104. Ashley says

    To Hell With The Hustle by Jefferson Bethke was an incredible read from this year! I honestly think anyone who reads it can benefit from it!

  105. Susy says

    Better than Fiction 1 and Better than Fiction 2.
    A traveler’s anthology delight by Lonely Planet.
    True travel adventures from great fiction writers!
    And. . . . I read Jesus Calling in 2018 and The One Year Bible in 2019, both your recommendations. What do you recommend for 2029?

  106. Maggie says

    I also read the Tattoist of Auschwitz in February. I was very moved while reading it and like you, I wanted to recommend it to others so I tweeted about it. The official Twitter account of the Auschwitz Memorial responded and asked me to stop recommending the book. I was flabbergasted. I thought the book was intense and moving and thought provoking, but they said it’s a lot more fictionalized than the author would like people to believe. They feel that the book is misleading and not an accurate representation of the holocaust and life and Auschwitz.

  107. Carol says

    I love your book reviews! The Things We Cannot Say was also one of my top reads for the year! I have The Tattooist of Auschwitz in my Audible library, but I haven’t listened to it yet. It will be queued up for January. Thanks for the time you put into these reviews, and Merry Christmas!

  108. Carol says

    Susy, have you read any of Bob Goff’s books? I’ve read both Love Does and Everybody Always (my favorite of the two). I’ve purchased Live in Grace, Walk in Love for my morning devotional in 2020.

  109. Emily says

    Love this post every year! Reading books you recommend has changed my reading game. The Yhings We Cannot Say was hands down my favorite book of the year as well! Thanks for sharing your love of reading with us, it’s so much fun!!

  110. Jessamyn says

    Thanks for the great list! I love book recommendations and marked many down in goodreads. I’d suggest Kindred. It was one of my favorites from the year. Also I just want to point out (as a lover of historical fiction) that your top 3 were all set in different time periods and at least two of your honorable mentions! Maybe you like the genre more than you think…:)

  111. Sarah says

    I know you’ve read and reviewed some of the older books by Bill O’Reilly. His newer books, “Killing England” & “Killing the SS” are good, too!

  112. Caitlin Shoemaker says

    Almost all of the books that I read come from your reviews. I just love them! You introduced me to Beatriz Williams novels and I am eternally grateful!

    Have you read Hillbilly Elegy? An excellent memoir.

  113. Melody says

    Thank you for posting the books you have read. I am always looking for a new book to read. If you haven’t read Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers, please read it. It is the best book I have ever read twice. I couldn’t put it down both times.

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