Happy Book Day!
Today is such a HUGE day around here! It’s the MANDA STRONG GALA tonight and friends, we are so excited!!! So, more pics to come about that, but in the meantime, I have my FEBRUARY BOOK REVIEW for you! Today, I have four books for you to read…I have a little book to encourage you, two memoirs and a little chick lit too.
From my home to yours, I’m wishing you the happiest Friday!
This month, I kicked things off with…
… Living Forever Chic…because January left me wanting something HAPPY (if you missed that book review, go HERE)!
This book is actually the sequel to Forever Chic, a book that I read and loved a few years ago, and was exactly what I needed to start the month. You girls know that I love, love, love these little French lifestyle books. Over the years, I’ve read and loved so many of them. I really find them inspiring, encouraging and motivating. If you’re a tired mama wearing stained sweats and holding a crying baby…you might need a little encouragement and/or motivation too. Or maybe you’re an empty-nester with time on your hands and a little sadness in your heart, I think this book would speak to you too. They’re just inspiring. I love a book that makes me want to put it down in order to better myself (whether that’s go for a walk, eat a salad, add on some lipstick, clean out a closet or write a thank you note..just something to make me a better version of myself). Whether you’re like me and have a read a million of these or if this is your first one, I think you’ll find it inspiring too. The author is an American woman who has been living in France for like 30 years and in this book, she shares her little secrets for living her best life. Love. I just love everything about it. I am a big believer that little things add up to a happier day (from lighting a candle to putting on your favorite music, it doesn’t take much to give your mood a little lift). I highly recommend this one.
Well holy cow, Jessica Simpson, I loved your new memoir, Open Book!
If you listened to our podcast, then you know, we loved Simpson’s tell all memoir. Not only did she share #allthedetails about her famous relationships, life and loves, but I also found it very inspiring and raw. I loved when she talked about being a mom and how she really had to get her life in focus and get her priorities straight. I don’t know? Maybe I wasn’t expecting much when I picked it up (so the bar wasn’t set very high) or maybe, it’s just really that good, but either way, read it! Simpson starts at the beginning (way back when she grew up in Texas at the same time I did!) and then the story progresses to present day. I was prepared for her to maybe make some other people look bad in order to make herself look better (cough, cough, Nick Lachey), but instead, I thought she was really vulnerable about her own failures and areas of weakness. Sometimes, you pick up a memoir and it makes you like the celebrity less…for me, I picked this one up and it made me like and respect her so much more. This one was really good and my favorite read so far this YEAR!
Oh, okay. I really don’t even remember how Dancing with a Porcupine ended up on my Kindle, but I am so thankful it did. Here’s the thing, I really try and spread the light and happiness that adoption has brought into our family. I know that when I started researching adoption online, a large percentage of what I found out there was negative and that was really discouraging to me. I mean, listen, I get it…as humans, we typically don’t take to the internet to talk about all the good, but by golly, we’ll take to it when we’re mad to make sure that restaurant/hotel/political candidate/school hears our rage…I get that, so because our adoption story has been so positive, I always want to use that to encourage others because in my heart of hearts, I truly believe in forever families created through adoption. That being said (you knew that was coming, right?), I have had a few friends formally adopt kids (not just foster them but formally adopt them) only to later realize it basically ruined their lives. I don’t understand this AT ALL (just like I don’t understand a lot of things I haven’t personally experienced) but years ago, had to reconcile myself to the fact that this is other people’s truth. I have heard my friends stories, prayed for them and literally held them while they cried, but I don’t think I ever quite “got it” until I read this book here.
Whenever I’m asked what book someone should read as they embark on adoption, I always say Forever Mom by Mary Ostyn (which I just saw is only $2 right now!!), but from now on, I’ll say that one AND THIS ONE TOO. Friends, if you’re considering adoption, READ THIS BOOK. It is awful, scary, depressing, sad, unbelievable and REALITY for so many people. So many of the stories this author told about her own experience adopting three kids were eerily similar to ones my other friends have told me. The thing is, you just don’t know what your experience is going to be like or who your kids really will be, until it’s actually happening…so there is just no 100% way to protect yourself. I honestly think that if you’re considering adoption, you need to read this book and think “could I do that?”. I probably quoted this book and talked more about this book than any other book I’ve read in a year to Andrew and my friends. I couldn’t keep this one to myself. It’s ugly but it’s beautiful at the same time. I am so thankful I read it and hope you do too.
Well, I’ve read approximately 4 billion books exactly like One in a Million and you know what? I’d read a billion more 🙂 . This is just chick-lit at its best. This story is about a young woman in London who, on a bet, has to turn a random guy from her office building “Instagram famous”. It’s cute, it’s funny, it’s easy to read, it’s heartwarming, it is HAPPY and it’s just what this gal needed to end her month. I love the British humor (it always reminds me of Bridget Jones), and the quirky cast of characters. If you’re looking for just a nice, easy to read novel, here you go. It is really cute!
That’s it for FEBRUARY! Now, my goal is to read about 25 books over spring break (kidding, not really, well sort of…), so please, please, please share which ones you think I should upload to my Kindle for my trip. I would love your recommendations!!!
As always, you can see the other book reviews I’ve done so far in 2020 right HERE along with my TOP THREE books of 2019 and a list of every book I read in 2019 🙂 .
Okay…what should I read next??? Please comment and share!!
Happy Book Day!! xo
Taylor says
I am so excited to read Jessica Simpson’s book but of course there are 100 people in front of me at the library..sigh haha. Anyways, I have two recommendations: 1. Good Girls Lie! It’s a mystery/thriller about a private all girls school and I could not put it down. There were multiple twists and turns.
2. American Dirt..now I know there is some controversy regarding the author of this book but wow, I couldn’t put it down. It opened my eyes to life just across the American border and opened my heart as well. I will recommend it to everyone.
Kristen Hardison says
You should listen to the Jessica one on Audible! She reads it herself! I couldn’t stop! So good!
Erika Slaughter says
I agree, Kristen!! The audio version was so good!!
Becky B says
Agree! I loved hearing it from her voice!
Sharon says
“THE PARIS LETTERS” by Janice Macleod. Shay this book has you written all over it.
Sara says
American Dirt! ???? Very well written and eye opening. Best book I’ve read in six months.
Jennifer Nuttall says
Yes I second American Dirt – there’s controversy around the authors background and whether she has the ‘right’ to portray these experiences/characters, but regardless of that it was a raw, great read with a focus on strong, resilient incredible women. And loved Open Book as well! 🙂
Jill L says
Jeanine Cummins brother is a friend of mine. Wow, the struggles she’s gone through after releasing this book have been awful.
meg Flannery says
American dirt. Very well written. It will give you a book hangover.
Christina says
just finished American Dirt and I was a little nervous but WOW! Holy COW- it was riveting and opened a space in my heart I didn’t know needed opening.
Gilda bisbee says
I loved American Dirt. Agree with you on opening my eyes/heart to those that are escaping for their lives & dangers that are involved! Highly recommend!
Jessie says
I loved Open Book! I did the audio version and loved it. I’m reading The Wives now and it’s hard to put down!
Jenn says
I just got American Dirt in my Book of the Month delivery. (By the way this has been one of my all-time favorite teacher gift I’ve ever received!)
Kylie says
Taylor, my library waitlist was long too so I signed up for a free trial of Audible and got Jessica’s book! It was so good on audio and FREE!
Mia says
This Is How It Always Is. I read it for a book club, and I can’t stop recommending it.
Jen says
Josh and hazels guide to not dating – Christina lauren
The kiss quotient – Helen hoang
Maybe in another life – Taylor Jenkins Reid
I’m fine and neither are you – Camille pagan
The friend zone – Abby jimenez
The life of Arthur truluv – Elizabeth berg
Erin says
I loved that Josh and Hazel one!! Christina Lauren has recently becoming one of my very favorites!!
Brooke says
The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez
Alexis Jalovick says
Yes yes yes to The Friend Zone!!!
I also loved The Prenup by Lauren Layne. Such a cute and fun read!
LOVED Say You Still Love Me by K.A. Tucker. Can’t say enough good things about it. Loved the characters and the storyline and all of it! Chick lit with depth.
Jessica says
The Friend Zone was awesome!! Soooo good! I just literally (3 mins ago) finished Wild at Heart, the sequel to The Simple Wild by KA Tucker. They are MUST READS, along w her book mentioned above. SOOOOOOO good, I can’t recommend them enough! 🙂
Narci says
My favorite post of the month!! What a great list!!
Nicole says
Winter in Paradise by Elian Hilderbrand and then the sequel, What Happens in Paradise. I finished the first one last night and had to immediately pick up the second one because the first ended in such a cliff hanger!
CampDallas says
Hand to Mouth: Living in Bootstrap America. This really gave me a new perspective on what so many Americans experience barely living paycheck to paycheck. Now. I thought the end sounded a little preachy, but it was still a very worthwhile read!!
Mary Beth says
Two books I have Loved lately-
Flight Plan by Karen White
Thunder and Rain by Charles Martin
I always look forward to your monthly book review for more ideas☺️
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
That’s good to know about Jessica Simpson’s memoir! I want to read it next!! You read Little Fires everywhere right? It’s a Hulu series next month with Reese Witherspoon and Kerri Washington and I’m here for it!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Kate T says
Good morning! I get so many of book recommendations from you which is amazing. I did have a coworker recommended Other People’s Houses, it looks really good. I will read after I finish The Mother—in-Law.
Kelly Sites says
You 100% for sure NEED to read Saving Cee Cee Honeycut. My favorite book of the year so far (and I’ve read 16 books so far this year). It’s so fun, good, heartwarming, and wonderful. I LOVED Open Book. I had low expectations of that book impressing me, but I agree with all you said about it.
Christina says
oh I LOVED Cee See- gosh I read that years ago and I can still remember it so well!!
Sheaffer Sims says
So I need to listen to Jessica Simpson’s book. Somebody needs to tell me how to do that. 🙂
Pamela Kennedy says
Download Audible. It is a great way to listen to audiobooks. I love listening in the car if I have a long drive.:)
Kelly Sites says
PS- sorry- another book (I’m listening to on Audible and HIGHLY SUGGEST IT) is: Maybe You Should Talk to Someone. Hilarious and so so so good. I love it.
Lynelle says
I read this at the beginning of the month and I absolutely loved it. It and Born A Crime are topping my list for 2020 so far!
Monica :) says
I highly recommend the memoir, The Sound of Gravel by Ruth Wariner. It can be a hard read like Educated by Tara Westover but excellent as well. It’s a must read in memoirs.
Mix and Match Mama says
YES!!! I read it last year and will never forget it!
Bridget says
The holdout!
Lesley McFarland says
I love love this post every month. I will say I’m in the middle of Jessica Simpson’s book and I feel like she is right next to me while I’m reading it. It’s like she is talking to you. Also, I had to rewatch Newly Weds. Greatness!!!!!!
Melissa Terry says
I loved Open Book as well and thought she did a great job of saying what went on without trashing someone else along the way. I don’t read a lot of celebrity memoirs, but I really did enjoy this one.
Letters to the Lost
The Prenup
Meg and Jo
The Secrets We Kept
Lady Clementine
Those have been some recent favorites…happy reading!
Kelsee says
Meg & Jo is in my TBR pile! I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it!!
Kasey says
The last two books I’ve read in my book Club have been great and hit for everyone in the book Club:
Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan
When We Believed in Mermaids by Barbara O’Neal
Kathy says
I also really liked When We Believed in Mermaids by Barbara O’Neal! Just finished it last week.
Amber Webb says
I have read 15 books so far this year (way ahead for my 52 book goal) and some of them have been amazing.
In Five Years by Rebecca Serle is the last one I read. It comes out March 10. It’s by the same author who wrote the Dinner List that I read after your review. This one is even better than that one!
A Good Neighborhood by Therese Anne Fowler is the best book I have read in a long time. It also comes out March 10. It’s going to be a best seller I have no doubt. It is phenomenal.
I’m Fine and Neither Are You was also really good and Followers.
Keeping Lucy was my favorite book I read last year.
Susan Crivella says
Just read Dead Edward it was soooo good! Read what it’s about before you decide to take it on vacation though! But I highly recommend it!0
Mimi says
Yes yes yes! Dear Edward is one of the best books I have read in a long time. So moving and sad and uplifting all at the same time.
Susan Crivella says
Also just started The Wives so far it’s good! I kind a good thriller can’t wait to see how it ends up!
Kim Kiser says
The Wives is such a great book!! My favorite read so far this year!!
Kelley Sawyer says
When crickets cry by Charles Martin. Or long way gone or chasing fireflies. All by Charles Martin. You won’t be disappointed. His character development is fabulous. His stories are unique. Page turners.
Patty says
I agree, Kelley! Charles Martin is a fabulous storyteller and I get sucked right in every single time.
Nikki says
YES, literally anything by Charles Martin!!
votemom says
the forgotten garden by kate morton
Shannon says
I’m reading Jessica Simpson’s memoir now and I can’t put it down. Which, like you, surprised me! Really enjoying it.
Tricia says
The Ultimate Gift by Jim Stovall
Cara P. says
Did you read the kindle version of Forever Chic? I was curious if it was going to be okay on my kindle or if I would prefer the print version. Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
For that one, I bought the print version because I love keeping those on my nightstand and refer to them often.
Sheila DeSpirito says
I read in January The Dearly Beloved- by Cara Wall it has a Christian theme woven into it. Loved this book. Also another Jenna Bush Hager book I read this month is Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano. Highly recommend.
Tanya says
I have been hearing about the Jessica Simpson book everywhere. I can’t wait to read it! If you haven’t already read it, be sure to read The Dearly Beloved…best book I’ve read this year. I’m currently reading Dear Edward, which is excellent so far. Have a great weekend. You can see my latest book post here –> Tanya – The Other Side of the Road
Sara says
For you, Dear Edward (I hope you haven’t already read it! I stink at keeping up) and for your older kiddos, The One and Only Ivan.
Julie says
Love love love your book reviews! For your vacation reading, “Such a Fun Age” was a great book. I also adored Bob Iger (Disney CEO’s) book ‘Ride of a Lifetime.’ I think I highlighted every other sentence because he has such a positive outlook on life and such good advice about how to run your business. Plus, Disney! The ‘Whisper Network’ was very good too. Kind of a mystery and a good read on the strength of women and their friendships. I also enjoyed ‘Home Front’ by Kristin Hannah. It is NOT a light read, but very moving. About a mom who has to leave her husband in charge of her young family while she goes to fight in the war. Makes you really appreciate life! Cannot wait to read “The Two Lives of Lydia Bird” because “One Day in December” remains one of my favorite EVER reads! Have a fantastic trip!
Amy Heinl says
I second Home Front by Kristin Hannah. It was excellent
Lauren says
Keeping Lucy by T.Greenwood! It’s about a little girl who is committed to an “institution” in 1969 because she has Down syndrome and her mother’s fight to rescue her. Eye-opening and amazing!
Taylor says
Look up books by Diane Chamberlain! I have read several and they were all fantastic!
Meghan McClellan says
I am reading Catch and Kill by Ronan Farrow right now and I CANNOT PUT IT DOWN!!! It’s about his reporting/uncovering of the Harvey Weinstein scandal. It’s shocking, maddening, and intriguing! Non-fiction isn’t always my thing, but this book is GRIPPING!
Yvonne says
Hi Shay, thank you for your monthly book review, my niece and I look forward to it every month!! Many of your recommendations are spot on, we appreciate the time you take to do this!
I would love for you to read “The Friend Zone” by Abby Jimenez, it is so good, I really think you would love it!
Have fun at your gala tonight!
Cecily Burk says
You should read Sotah by Naomi Ragen.
It is such a great fiction book!! About a girl who is raised in a Orthodox Jew and is kicked out of her community after she is accused of adultery.
Jenna says
The Simple Wild by KA Tucker. A sequel was just released called Wild at Heart and it’s equally as good. You will love it, I know it!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Thanks for the reviews once again, Shay! Living Forever Chic sounds so cute! 🙂
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Andrea says
I’m recently on a Colleen Hoover kick. I know her books can sometimes be hit or miss but the last two I read have been great reads: Ugly Love and All Your Perfects ($2 on Kindle right now!). I haven’t finished All Your Perfects yet, and must disclaim that it is very deeply rooted around infertility issues and its affect on marriage – a rather heavy topic, but relatable to so many and I think she’s done an incredible job writing about such a sensitive topic.
Jen says
I just finished ugly love and it was sooo good!!!
Robin Ince says
I just finished All Your Perfects last week after seeing that kindle deal too and LOVED it. Favorite book of 2020 so far.
I second Kate Morton’s Forgotten Garden or Tge Secret Keeper, and I think you would love The Road Back to You by Cron and Stabile (on the enneagram). I read it on a family vacation that my entire extended family was present for, and it was so fun for all of the adults to try to figure out our numbers together 🙂
Laurie Birt says
American Dirt, The Girl With the Louding Voice, Know My Name
Jen says
I loved Jessica Simpson’s memoir too! I’m with you in that I really like her a whole lot more after reading it! She has strong convictions and sticks to them! She also seems like an “average person” even though she’s like a billionaire!!! Which I did not know, by the way! I’ve started following her in Instagram now. 🙂
Meredith Shanks says
I felt the same way about Jessica Simpson’s book. Sometimes I’m nervous to read a memoir, because I’ve left so many not liking the person because they only play the victim card. However, I felt like she owned up to her own mistakes in her marriage and in life.
Ashlee Brown says
The Bromance Book Club – Lyssa Kay Adams (married romance, baseball players, so sweet)
Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating – Christina Lauren (so cute and laugh out loud funny. My favorite of theirs)
The Friend Zone – Abby jimenez
Amber Bienkowski says
The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez
Amy says
The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo i really loved. It reminded me a lot of the Family Stone. It was a little long, but I couldn’t put it down. I also loved All The Ways We Say Goodbye by Beatriz Williams.
Jen says
The Holdout by Graham Moore is so engaging! So many hyped up, much-anticipated books are being released these next few months…can’t wait for the upcoming posts!
Shawna Beucler @ Lunchbox Babies says
I read Daisy Jones & The Six this month. May be my favorite book ever! Loved how it was written down loved all of the characters. ❤️
Mix and Match Mama says
Loved that one so much!! 🙂
Jenn says
The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell is really good!!
MAUREEN C WERNER says
Shay, thank you so much for your honesty and for recommending a book like Dancing With Porcupines! I have followed your adoption journey all along and always was so happy that your journey was blessed and all of your experiences were so wonderful. I have 11 adopted children including a sibling set of 5 that just arrived this past December. I love all of my children and really do view them as blessings from God, but it is HARD! Somedays, when the past catches up with a particular child and they treat you terribly even though you have given up so much for them, and you think, “Lord, what have you asked me to do?” But then your 6 year old son, the one who keeps hitting the teachers and running away from the staff at school, the one who will literally only eat PB&J sandwiches for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the one who has therapy appointments 4 nights a week and will not go to sleep at night until you have rocked him for 2 hours and sung This Little Light of Mine until your voice is hoarse….this little boy walks up to me in the school office where I have been summoned AGAIN, takes my hand in his and proudly declares, “This is my MOM! I Love Her!” and I know this is what the Lord has called me to do. And it is worth it! I can’t wait to read the book!! And I love Mary Ostyn’s too!!
Stephanie F Sanders says
Oh my gosh Maureen you are an angel taking that on! YOU need to write a book! I’m sure it would be a best seller. You’re quite an inspiration.
Rebecca says
The Overdue Life of Amy Byler by Kelly Harms- it reads like chic lit but is ultimately a truly moving story about motherhood and the identity struggles it (potentially) creates. So Good!!
Jen says
I read this one and enjoyed it!
Margaret says
An Invisible Thread by Laura Schroff
The storytellers Secret by Dejal Badani
The Life List by Lori Spielman
The silver music box by mina Baites
Then She was Gone by Lisa Jewell
The Pearl that broke its Shell by Nadia Hashimi
The Secret Daughter by Kelly Rimmer
All pretty highly reviewed on Amazon.
Kelsee says
I’m starting Jessica’s book today and cannot wait! I have heard nothing but rave reviews!
This month I read:
Long Bright River: This book has gotten rave reviews, but it was just okay for me. You may like it, so its worth a read!
Live in Love: Lauren Akins’ new memoir is good! Focused on faith and her upbringing. I appreciated the stories and learning more about her and Thomas Rhett’s life and faith.
The New Husband: Another one that I enjoyed. Think thriller. I would recommend it.
In Cold Blood; This was my fiance’s pick for me this month. I have never read it. Very interesting true story. Have you read it?
You Are Not Alone: This was hands down my favorite read of the month! I would highly recommend you read this one!
Kara says
Thank you for recommending Dancing with a Porcupine. I am an adoptive mother and it is very hard at times. You are very blessed to have the situation you have with Ashby and Madeley-from what I read online and talk to other adoptive parents, yours is not the “norm”, but I do feel like God has used that for your encouragement of adoption. My belief is that many children now have a family because your advocacy for adoption and that is ALWAYS a good thing!!! I agree with the two book recommendations-the good and the ugly.
Thank you for sharing your life with the internet.
Katy says
I’m reading and loving Love Lettering right now and think it’d be a great Spring Break read!
Kimberly Austin says
Love your reviews! Have fun on spring break. Here are some really good books to take:
Bringing Down the Duke by Evie Dunmore
Beyond the Point by Claire Gibson
Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain
The Worst Best Man by Mia Sosa
Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson
Meet Me in Monaco By Hazel Gaynor
Get a Life Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert
Morgan says
Single, dating, engaged, married by Ben Stuart! He was the pastor at Breakaway at Texas A&M University! He’s amazing!
Kristy says
Someone Else’s Love Story by Joshilyn Jackson…READ IT READ IT READ IT! And then read all the rest of her books!
Stacey S says
Read In An Instant by Susanne Redfearn. SO good! It’s been my favorite book so far this year. My book club also read The Grace year which I really liked!
Jill says
I recently read and enjoyed After the fall by Clare Mackintosh. I think you might enjoy it too!
Mix and Match Mama says
YES!!! I loved that one!!
Melody Collins says
I always look forward to these reviews! I’m reading Mystic Lake by Kristin Hannah!
Tami Rylaarsdam says
Wishing you a fabulous time tonight! And my fingers are crossed that you are going to Hawaii for spring break this year. It is the best! Aloha~
Kate S says
‘Our stop’ is a British chick lit book I think you’d enjoy it!
Jennifer says
Just finished The Simple Wild by KA Tucker and is a good chick flick book
Kelli says
Everything Happens For a Reason and Other Lies I’ve Believed by Kate Bowler (might be a little heavy for a trip – but so good)
Carol says
****I beseech you(again) **** to read The Invisible Bridge. If you loved the Tattooist and it’s sequel you will LOVE this one.
Mix and Match Mama says
I just added it to my wish list!!
Rita says
I just read The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley and loved it.
Jodi says
We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter. You liked Tattooist of Auschwitz and The Things We Cannot Say so you will like it.
Mindy says
Dear Edward was a really great read.
Also, I feel like you would really enjoy reading Awful Beautiful Life by Becky Powell. True story of a family in Austin, who ran with the who’s who crowd in Austin. She has such an amazing relationship with God to help her get through a tragedy.
A fun suspense thriller was My Lovely Wife.
A light fluffy chic-lit book is My Bookish Life of Nina Hill.
Enjoy reading on your trip!
Madi says
Dear Edward 🙂
I’m loving it so far!
Arika says
I was reading reviews of American Dirt and saw that SO MANY different authors from completely different genres recommend it, including your fave author, Elin Hilderbrand. It made me wonder if it was on your “to read” list. I just finished up The Alice Network (loved) and am currently reading Educated but I think I’ll pick this one up next.
“Why do we read fiction? By immersing ourselves in the lives of fictional characters we gain emotional depth, breadth, and empathy. We become more human. I have never felt more changed―or challenged―by a book than I have by American Dirt. It’s truly a revelation.”
―Elin Hilderbrand, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Summer of ’69
Holley says
I always love your book reviews! When I go to the library with my little one, I always open up your blog to the book review to see if any of the books you’ve listed are there and available! Love it!
Kim M. says
Jennie Allen’s new book Get Out of Your Head is a great non-fiction read!!
Lindsey Bishop says
I loved Julie Andrews’ newest book Home Work! (She reads the audiobook which makes it even better!)
Also: Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes, Waiting for Tom Hanks by Kerry Winfrey, Meet Me In Monaco by Hazel Gaynor, The Kennedy Debutante by Kerri Maher, and The Flight Girls by Noelle Salazar.
Julie says
My Favorite post of the month!! I love your heart about adoption and can’t wait to share the book you recommended with a friend who is fostering twins and is considering adoption. I have read 41 books so far this year and WAY ahead of where I should be but I had surgery in January and have enjoyed myself so much while I have been off work recuperating, I am reading Orphan Train right now and so far enjoying it. I am not huge on the back and forth with stories of two people but I am loving the stories so far. All the best books I have read so far have been recommendations from you I think. lol. I can tell you though A Lie For a Lie by Helena Hunting…. whoa! Love it! It will be a series and A Favor for a Favor was just released like two weeks ago but read A Lie for A Lie first. You will be swooning! I love getting suggestions and filling my to read list from these comments. Also, wanted to ask. Are you not keeping up with Goodreads anymore? I haven’t seen any updates in a while. Pray all goes perfect at the Gala for Manda!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m not. I always forget!!!
Keisha Dawson says
It makes me so happy when I read a book that you’ve read during the month. It’s one less book to add to my TBR pile. I’m over halfway through with Jessica’s book, and I plan to devour the rest of it tomorrow. It is so good!
Tracy says
One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus – so good!
Liz says
Have you read An Unwanted Guest? This book has been really good so far (I am currently reading it). Definitely a fun murder mystery that I want to pick up again and again.
Katrina says
You Were There Too.. I got it from Ashley Spivey!
Brandi Carson says
Love your book reviews. I just finished “Shortcake” by Lucy Watson and I swear I was sad it ended. I laughed, I cried, it’s a wonderful book that I think you’ll enjoy!
Kaysey says
You must read The Bookish Life of Nina Hill. It quirky and great!
Erin Lloyd says
Oh I LOVE THIS DAY!!! BOOK review day is my fav day of the month!! I am glad to hear Jessica Simpson was good. I was wondering. But I am sooo exited to read Dancing with a porcupine. We have adopted our little girl from China and it has not been an easy journey. It has been 6 yeas and it is getting better but it has been way harder than I ever imagined. I think for me I had to deal with the reality that it was not like I pictured in my head. It was not all roses and butterflies like I prayed for years about. I cant NOT WAIT to read this book! Thank you!!!
Aparna says
Hi Shay! Always love your book reviews…just read The two lives of Lydia Bird by the same author of One day in December and loved it! Read it in one go! I think you will like it.
Kimberly Austin says
Have you read any of the books by Rachel Hauck? I think you would really like them. Great faith based stories. I adored The Memory House and I just finished her new one The Fifth Avenue Story Society which I loved as well.
sandi says
I LOVE THESE POSTS! I open my library homepage, scroll through the comments and place books on hold or make notes for ones that I wish to read at a later date. It’s always fun to find a new author. I’ve shared your site with numerous reader friends and we are constantly swapping “you have to read ….!” stories. Thanks to you I always have a book in the car for when I’m waiting on the kids.
Anneli says
I stumbled across your blog and this post on Bloglovi, and I’m glad I did. I haven’t read a book just for fun in a long time. I’ve been on an educational kick for a while now. I’m eyeing One in a Million, even though the Jessica Simpson one sounds really good too… I want something lighter. Thank you for the book reviews!
Joanne says
I love a good memoir! I’ll have to add that Jessica Simpson book to my list.
Natalie says
Hi Shay,
I love your book review . Another subject on your story you had a YSL bag do you know which one it is and what actual color is it? Red or pink? Also, you had Golden Goose shoes on which ones were they
Thanks so much Shay
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s a pink one and my shoes are gold and green, but I don’t know the name.
Michelle says
The Wives, 3/4 of they way through and can’t put it down!
L O R E N says
I lOOOVED Jessica’s book. It made me love her even more. The audible was just as fantastic and I liked hearing her tell the story more so. . . Her voice of uncertainty in her life but then the voice of complete assurance. Amazing.
Tracie says
Know My Name by Chanel Miller. It’s the story of the Stanford rape case in 2015 as told by the victim. I listened to it on Audible as she was the narrator. So powerful and riveting. A must read!!!
Morgan says
Do you ever download the free Kindle books you get as an Amazon Prime member each month? it’s kind of a crapshoot, but sometimes there’s a gem! I’m trying to decide which one to download this month right now….
Meredith says
And then the third one does not come out in forever (insert huge sigh!)