Most writers are also readers. Here are some of the books I am currently working my way through. A similar post appeared on Janet Sketchley’s blog on January 29 and on my blog February 12. Some of the books are the same; some I’ve added since then.
Do you like how-to books? Memoirs? Novels? Do you carve out regular time for reading or is it hit and miss? Do bookstores and libraries draw you in with an irresistible pull?
As you know, I’m eclectically interested. The same holds true of what I like to read.
Currently, I’m actively reading the following:
A Fool and His Monet by Sandra Orchard
In my opinion, this is Sandra’s best novel to date. It is her first Serena Jones Mystery and I can see this series about a female FBI agent stretching well into the future. I’ve just gotten nicely started, but it’s so much fun! My only complaint … I wish I had more time to read it.
As the Ink Flows: Devotions to Inspire Christian Writers & Speakers
I had already pre-ordered this anthology when I received an email asking if I would like a copy to review. (Thank you to the mystery author who added my name to the list.) I look forward to receiving my physical copy and the ebook I ordered. So cool!
Beyond the Hate by Michael Bull Roberts
What happens when God gets hold of a former gang member and white supremacist? Well, He just may pave the way for said individual to visit the death camps in Germany and the poverty stricken in Africa. Mind-boggling! Is there anything too difficult for the Lord?
Crazy Love by Francis Chan
We are reading this for our small group study at church. I was thrilled to find four of Chan’s books on Kindle for the price of one. I look forward to reading the other three volumes as well. (I also like listening to Chan’s teaching on RightNow Media.)
Eyes Wide Open by Ted Dekker
Have you ever started watching a movie you didn’t really want to keep watching but you couldn’t help it? Yeah, that’s this book. It’s as if I’m trapped in the psych ward with the main characters. I feel desperate and claustrophobic just thinking about it. But that’s probably a good thing. Talk about being drawn into the story!
How Many Lightbulbs Does It Take to Change a Person? by Rhonda Rhea
I “met” Rhonda on Facebook and just knew we’d be terrific friends if we lived closer to one another. When I heard that a group of fun-loving, God-pursuing ladies was popping in and out on Facebook all day every Friday to discuss Rhonda’s book, I jumped at the chance to join them. Rhonda’s lighthearted approach to important spiritual habits is delightful.
Humble, Hungry, Hustle by Brad Lomenick
I came across this teaching via COMPEL Training. This is the most unique leadership book I’ve ever read. I admit when I think of books in this category, I think “dry.” This is far from it. I’m really enjoying it. Even if you don’t usually read leadership books, you may want to check out H3.
The Best Yes by Lysa TerKuerst
Do I say yes too often. <averts eyes and hums> This book helps readers consider why they say yes when they shouldn’t. It equips them to say no in order to prepare for “the best yes.” The author is authentic and genuine and uses examples from her own life. I love that. I highly recommend this book as well.
The End Begins by Sara Davison
Do you fear the day when gathering with other Christians means you’re breaking the law? When you may be accused of crimes you didn’t commit? When you may be hauled off for interrogation? How would you feel holding a child and looking down the barrel of a gun? Would you beg for your freedom? Would you cower and comply? Or would you throw back your shoulders and challenge the one holding the gun? I haven’t gotten far into this novel, but I love the protagonist’s spunk and look forward to reading more.
The Language of Sparrows by Rachel Phifer
From the beginning I knew this novel was going to be unique. It drew me in. This is one of those books that makes me think, “I wish I had more time to read.” How can a mother help when her daughter doesn’t fit in? When she fears her daughter has inherited her late husband’s mental health issues? When her daughter begins to spend time with a solitary older man?
The Red Fish Project by Andrew Gillmore
Andrew is the son of longtime family friends. I was thrilled to offer him encouragement about publishing his first book. (Turns out he’s got it pretty much figured out. His book is quickly rising through the ranks on Amazon.) Andrew loves to live abroad and doesn’t feel at home in “the West.” This book is an honest look at life in different cultures—and I stress the word “honest.” If you are offended by certain topics and the occasional inclusion of “colourful language,” you may not want to read The Red Fish Project. But if you want to know what makes this and other travelers tick, I recommend it.
The Things We Knew by Catherine West
This yet-to-be-released novel by Catherine West doesn’t disappoint … and I knew it wouldn’t. I love being part of Cathy’s street team. Getting the novel before it’s available to the public is definitely one of the best perks. Cathy doesn’t avoid the hard issues of life. Her characters are among the most “real” I’ve ever encountered. Shortly after a new character is introduced I feel as if I know them. Rarely will I laugh out loud and find tears rolling down my cheek when reading the same book, but it wouldn’t surprise me if this happens as I get further into the book. (Time, I need more time to read … or less TV.)
Writing Success by various authors
I rarely pre-order a book, but this one I did. If you write for the CBA (and even if you don’t), you may recognize some of the contributing authors, among them, Karen Ball, James Scott Bell, Mary DeMuth, Tricia Goyer, and Susan May Warren. This book overflows with invaluable information for novice and experienced writers alike.
What are you reading these days?