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✨ February Reads ✨

➡️ Full reviews of all of these can be found in my 2025 reading highlight!!

⭐5 Stars

•The Worry Free Parent by Sissy Goff
•Evidence Not Seen by Darlene Deibler Rose
•Volumes 4 & 5 & 6 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower
•Endurance by Alfred Lansing

⭐ 4 Stars

• Burning of Rosemont Abbey by Naomi Stephens
• The Indigo Heiress by Laura Frantz
• Midnight on the Scottish Shore by Sarah Sundin

⭐ 3 Stars

• Gospel Mom by Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler
• A Game of Hearts by Joanna Barker

👋🏽 What was your favorite read in February?

✨ February Reads ✨

➡️ Full reviews of all of these can be found in my 2025 reading highlight!!

⭐5 Stars

•The Worry Free Parent by Sissy Goff
•Evidence Not Seen by Darlene Deibler Rose
•Volumes 4 & 5 & 6 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower
•Endurance by Alfred Lansing

⭐ 4 Stars

• Burning of Rosemont Abbey by Naomi Stephens
• The Indigo Heiress by Laura Frantz
• Midnight on the Scottish Shore by Sarah Sundin

⭐ 3 Stars

• Gospel Mom by Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler
• A Game of Hearts by Joanna Barker

👋🏽 What was your favorite read in February?

✨ Feature Friday ✨

A series of posts where I feature new or favorite things we enjoy!

👏🏽 Since I was a teenager, I have read and enjoyed many of Lysa Terkuerst's books (I think I have read almost all of them)! ☺️ She has inspired me in my Christian walk and with her personal testimony.

➡️ Her newest release, "I Want to Trust You, but I Don't", focuses on "moving forward when you're skeptical of others, afraid of what God will allow, and doubtful of your own discernment".

I'm so excited to dig into this book!

✨ I love this quote: "Having your trust broken can be life altering, but it doesn't have to be life ruining."

👋🏽 Have you read any of Lysa's work?

.

.

Thank you to @frontgatem for my gifted copy of this book! As always, this review is honest and my own! 💕

✨ Feature Friday ✨

A series of posts where I feature new or favorite things we enjoy!

👏🏽 Since I was a teenager, I have read and enjoyed many of Lysa Terkuerst's books (I think I have read almost all of them)! ☺️ She has inspired me in my Christian walk and with her personal testimony.

➡️ Her newest release, "I Want to Trust You, but I Don't", focuses on "moving forward when you're skeptical of others, afraid of what God will allow, and doubtful of your own discernment".

I'm so excited to dig into this book!

✨ I love this quote: "Having your trust broken can be life altering, but it doesn't have to be life ruining."

👋🏽 Have you read any of Lysa's work?

.

.

Thank you to @frontgatem for my gifted copy of this book! As always, this review is honest and my own! 💕

✨ Two new releases I enjoyed in January ✨

👏🏽 The Indigo Heiress by Laura Frantz

This story is set in 1774 and follows our main character, Juliet Catesby, who lives on her family plantation in Virginia. Juliet discovers her father has arranged for one of his daughters to marry a business benefactor from Glasgow, Scotland. Juliet thinks it will be her younger sister.

➡️ Quick Takes:
⭐Rating: 4/5
🤐 Language: Mild - uses of "by jove" and "Hades"
🔥 Spice: A few kisses and closed door romance
👋🏽Content: Death, loss, grief, mental illness

This was my first book by Laura Grant and I thoroughly enjoyed it! The story was set between Virginia and Scotland. It was fun to experience both settings within the same story!

The faith content was okay....it could've maybe been portrayed as a little more personal, instead of just quoted here and there.

Overall, I loved the cast of characters and the storyline was great!

👏🏽 Before the King by Heather Kaufman

"Joanna's wealthy family aspires to Herod's inner circle, but when her father's esteemed position in the Sepphoris Sanhedrin is threatened, her family harbors a dark secret. Entangled in the complexities of aristocratic life and an impending arranged marriage, Joanna is caught between her own desires and maintaining appearances. When tragedy strikes, Joanna grapples with a new future that challenges her sense of duty and hope for love."

Quick Takes:
⭐Rating: 4/5
🤐 Language: None
🔥 Spice: Closed door
➡️ Content: Deaths of family members, chronic illness

I read Heather's first Biblical fiction book, Up from Dust, and really enjoyed it, so I was excited to read this next one.

Joanna's story was heartbreaking, yet full of themes of redemption, healing, and hope. I really enjoyed this book!

The reason I gave it four stars is because it felt like there were a few threads of the story left unresolved. It just fell flat in a few areas. Just personal preference.😊

👋🏽Have you read either of these?

.

Thank you to @bethanyhousefiction and @revellfiction for gifting me these books to review. As always, these reviews are honest and my own.

✨ Two new releases I enjoyed in January ✨

👏🏽 The Indigo Heiress by Laura Frantz

This story is set in 1774 and follows our main character, Juliet Catesby, who lives on her family plantation in Virginia. Juliet discovers her father has arranged for one of his daughters to marry a business benefactor from Glasgow, Scotland. Juliet thinks it will be her younger sister.

➡️ Quick Takes:
⭐Rating: 4/5
🤐 Language: Mild - uses of "by jove" and "Hades"
🔥 Spice: A few kisses and closed door romance
👋🏽Content: Death, loss, grief, mental illness

This was my first book by Laura Grant and I thoroughly enjoyed it! The story was set between Virginia and Scotland. It was fun to experience both settings within the same story!

The faith content was okay....it could've maybe been portrayed as a little more personal, instead of just quoted here and there.

Overall, I loved the cast of characters and the storyline was great!

👏🏽 Before the King by Heather Kaufman

"Joanna's wealthy family aspires to Herod's inner circle, but when her father's esteemed position in the Sepphoris Sanhedrin is threatened, her family harbors a dark secret. Entangled in the complexities of aristocratic life and an impending arranged marriage, Joanna is caught between her own desires and maintaining appearances. When tragedy strikes, Joanna grapples with a new future that challenges her sense of duty and hope for love."

Quick Takes:
⭐Rating: 4/5
🤐 Language: None
🔥 Spice: Closed door
➡️ Content: Deaths of family members, chronic illness

I read Heather's first Biblical fiction book, Up from Dust, and really enjoyed it, so I was excited to read this next one.

Joanna's story was heartbreaking, yet full of themes of redemption, healing, and hope. I really enjoyed this book!

The reason I gave it four stars is because it felt like there were a few threads of the story left unresolved. It just fell flat in a few areas. Just personal preference.😊

👋🏽Have you read either of these?

.

Thank you to @bethanyhousefiction and @revellfiction for gifting me these books to review. As always, these reviews are honest and my own.

✨ Thank you to @flycitymall for this gifted 5-tier rotating shelf! I was needing a new shelf for all of my TBR (to be read) books. And no, this definitely isn't all of them. 😉

This shelf was so easy to build, it only took me around 40 mins (with the help of my one-year-old), and it is super sturdy! ☺️ I love that it rotates and holds so many books (up to 100). The 5-tier shelf can also be made into four or three tiers instead.

➡️ I'd love to know, how many books are in your TBR? 😊

If you're looking for a beautiful bookshelf to help hold your books, comment LINK and I'll send you the details! 💕

✨ Thank you to @flycitymall for this gifted 5-tier rotating shelf! I was needing a new shelf for all of my TBR (to be read) books. And no, this definitely isn't all of them. 😉

This shelf was so easy to build, it only took me around 40 mins (with the help of my one-year-old), and it is super sturdy! ☺️ I love that it rotates and holds so many books (up to 100). The 5-tier shelf can also be made into four or three tiers instead.

➡��️ I'd love to know, how many books are in your TBR? 😊

If you're looking for a beautiful bookshelf to help hold your books, comment LINK and I'll send you the details! 💕

🌟 March Picture Book List 🌟

Looking for some fun picture books to read this month?

I have created a free book list PLUS a printable calendar of some of our favorite books to read in March!

➡️ The printable calendar is a great tool to take along on your library trip!

This month we will be reading some of our favorite animal stories, historical picture books, and a few silly reads! 🤗 As always, the list includes several true stories - because those are always our favorites!

Comment "March" to receive the link straight to your DMs!

🌟 March Picture Book List 🌟

Looking for some fun picture books to read this month?

I have created a free book list PLUS a printable calendar of some of our favorite books to read in March!

➡️ The printable calendar is a great tool to take along on your library trip!

This month we will be reading some of our favorite animal stories, historical picture books, and a few silly reads! 🤗 As always, the list includes several true stories - because those are always our favorites!

Comment "March" to receive the link straight to your DMs!

✨ Who's joining me in March? ⤵️

Although the voting was close, this book had the most votes from you for the March group. I am so glad! I read this book once a year because it is so dear to my heart! 😊

➡️ The Book: Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes

*Swipe through to see the description of the book!

👋🏽 I am hosting the group read along exclusively on the FABLE App! It is a fantastic platform to chat about the book as we read together!

How to participate:

.• Download the Fable app and create an account

• Join my book club

• Comment and engage along with others in the group as we read.

• Feel free to read at your own pace

If you'd like to join, comment "March" below and I'll send you all the details! 💕

I'm excited to read along with you! 🤗

✨ Who's joining me in March? ⤵️

Although the voting was close, this book had the most votes from you for the March group. I am so glad! I read this book once a year because it is so dear to my heart! 😊

➡️ The Book: Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes

*Swipe through to see the description of the book!

👋🏽 I am hosting the group read along exclusively on the FABLE App! It is a fantastic platform to chat about the book as we read together!

How to participate:

.• Download the Fable app and create an account

• Join my book club

• Comment and engage along with others in the group as we read.

• Feel free to read at your own pace

If you'd like to join, comment "March" below and I'll send you all the details! 💕

I'm excited to read along with you! 🤗

✨ Do you have beginner readers who aren't quite ready for chapter books?

Bridge books (or early readers) are a fantastic way to build confidence in young readers as they navigate their way to the world of chapter books!

🥳 Bridge books are like short chapter books only with lots of illustrations, easy wording, and very short sentences.

We have so many favorite stories, but some of my son's favorites are:

⭐ Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel

⭐ Billy and Blaze by C.W. Anderson

➡️For a list of all of these and LOTS more, comment "BRIDGE" and I'll send it straight to your inbox!

👏🏽Do you have a favorite bridge book?

✨ Do you have beginner readers who aren't quite ready for chapter books?

Bridge books (or early readers) are a fantastic way to build confidence in young readers as they navigate their way to the world of chapter books!

🥳 Bridge books are like short chapter books only with lots of illustrations, easy wording, and very short sentences.

We have so many favorite stories, but some of my son's favorites are:

⭐ Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel

⭐ Billy and Blaze by C.W. Anderson

➡️For a list of all of these and LOTS more, comment "BRIDGE" and I'll send it straight to your inbox!

👏🏽Do you have a favorite bridge book?

✨ Transitioning from Picture Books to Chapter Books

Picture books will always hold a special place in my heart, and I feel like we should never truly stop reading them to our kids. 💕

However, the chapter book stage is also a LOT of fun and opens a whole new world of stories and adventure.

But how do we get there and help our children to be prepared to listen to longer stories?

Here are a few simple tips that have helped us:

🌟 Attention spans are something that need to be flexed gradually. Just like a muscle, we need to strengthen and stretch our attention spans with longer reading times and stories. Less screen time helps with this!

🌟 Reading picture books that are longer and use larger words. Kids can understand more than we give them credit for sometimes.

🌟 Using early readers (also known as "bridge" books). These help bridge the gap between picture books and chapter books.

🌟 Chapter books with LOTS of illustrations. We have been reading chapter books for years and we (yes, we😄) still enjoy illustrations.

✨ What helped you make this transition?

✨ Transitioning from Picture Books to Chapter Books

Picture books will always hold a special place in my heart, and I feel like we should never truly stop reading them to our kids. 💕

However, the chapter book stage is also a LOT of fun and opens a whole new world of stories and adventure.

But how do we get there and help our children to be prepared to listen to longer stories?

Here are a few simple tips that have helped us:

🌟 Attention spans are something that need to be flexed gradually. Just like a muscle, we need to strengthen and stretch our attention spans with longer reading times and stories. Less screen time helps with this!

🌟 Reading picture books that are longer and use larger words. Kids can understand more than we give them credit for sometimes.

🌟 Using early readers (also known as "bridge" books). These help bridge the gap between picture books and chapter books.

🌟 Chapter books with LOTS of illustrations. We have been reading chapter books for years and we (yes, we😄) still enjoy illustrations.

✨ What helped you make this transition?

✨Books about Compassion ✨

As I think about celebrating Valentine's Day this week, I have been processing what it means to share compassion to those around us. This was a fitting book topic! 💞

👏🏽Our absolute favorite books from this list:

💕 Boxes for Katje - Showing compassion to others

💕 The Long Road Home - A picture of how God shows compassion to us

👋🏽 Need a list? Comment "Compassion" below and I'll send you a link to my free book list that includes all of these titles PLUS more!

➡️ Do you have a favorite book featuring compassion?

For more book suggestions, check out my friend's posts:

@treasuredhourbookshop
@agoodbookhunt
@juiceboxhomeschool
@brittsbookbin

✨Books about Compassion ✨

As I think about celebrating Valentine's Day this week, I have been processing what it means to share compassion to those around us. This was a fitting book topic! 💞

👏🏽Our absolute favorite books from this list:

💕 Boxes for Katje - Showing compassion to others

💕 The Long Road Home - A picture of how God shows compassion to us

👋🏽 Need a list? Comment "Compassion" below and I'll send you a link to my free book list that includes all of these titles PLUS more!

➡️ Do you have a favorite book featuring compassion?

For more book suggestions, check out my friend's posts:

@treasuredhourbookshop
@agoodbookhunt
@juiceboxhomeschool
@brittsbookbin

✨ Do you have kids that still enjoy picture books but are ready for longer stories?

I love this stage because it is a prequel to many amazing stories and adventures with chapter books!! 💞

👏🏽 Long-form picture books (or picture novellas) still include my favorite thing - which is the illustrations! But the text is longer, deeper, and richer.

➡️ Need a list? I got you. Comment "LIST" and I'll send you the list of the books shown in this reel PLUS a lot more!!! 😍

✨Do you have a favorite longer picture book?

✨ Do you have kids that still enjoy picture books but are ready for longer stories?

I love this stage because it is a prequel to many amazing stories and adventures with chapter books!! 💞

👏🏽 Long-form picture books (or picture novellas) still include my favorite thing - which is the illustrations! But the text is longer, deeper, and richer.

➡️ Need a list? I got you. Comment "LIST" and I'll send you the list of the books shown in this reel PLUS a lot more!!! 😍

✨Do you have a favorite longer picture book?

✨ Friday Feature ✨

A series of posts where I share new releases or family favorites on Fridays. 😉

👏🏽The Book:

A Long Road Home by Sarah Walton and illustrated by Christina Yang

✨ The Synopsis:

In this creative retelling of the parable of the Prodigal Son, the youngest son, Wander, was willing to give up everything for his independence - including a relationship with his father and brother G Goodness.

With his father’s cash in hand, he left for the alluring towns of Perfection, Prosperity, and Popularity. Each new town brought a brief sense of happiness, but eventually, as the excitement wore off, he was overcome by a deepening sense of emptiness. It was then that Wander remembered his father’s words, “Wherever you go, my son, I want you to remember that I love you with a never-ending love.”

👋🏽 My Thoughts:

I have a soft spot in my heart for the parable that Jesus tells of the lost son. So when I saw this book, I knew I had to read it! 💞 It did not disappoint!

Filled with beautiful storytelling that is reminiscent of Pilgrim's Progress and illustrations that you don't want to stop enjoying, this book is brilliant from beginning to end. I found myself wishing there was a sequel so that I could continue reading! ☺️

⭐Suggested Ages:

Since this story is more of a long-form picture book (longer, deeper text), I would suggest it for ages 6-8.

➡️ Have you read this one?

** Thank you to @crosswaybooks for this gifted book. As always, the thoughts and content of this honest review are my own.

✨ Friday Feature ✨

A series of posts where I share new releases or family favorites on Fridays. 😉

👏🏽The Book:

A Long Road Home by Sarah Walton and illustrated by Christina Yang

✨ The Synopsis:

In this creative retelling of the parable of the Prodigal Son, the youngest son, Wander, was willing to give up everything for his independence - including a relationship with his father and brother G Goodness.

With his father’s cash in hand, he left for the alluring towns of Perfection, Prosperity, and Popularity. Each new town brought a brief sense of happiness, but eventually, as the excitement wore off, he was overcome by a deepening sense of emptiness. It was then that Wander remembered his father’s words, “Wherever you go, my son, I want you to remember that I love you with a never-ending love.”

👋🏽 My Thoughts:

I have a soft spot in my heart for the parable that Jesus tells of the lost son. So when I saw this book, I knew I had to read it! 💞 It did not disappoint!

Filled with beautiful storytelling that is reminiscent of Pilgrim's Progress and illustrations that you don't want to stop enjoying, this book is brilliant from beginning to end. I found myself wishing there was a sequel so that I could continue reading! ☺️

⭐Suggested Ages:

Since this story is more of a long-form picture book (longer, deeper text), I would suggest it for ages 6-8.

➡️ Have you read this one?

** Thank you to @crosswaybooks for this gifted book. As always, the thoughts and content of this honest review are my own.

This is such an impossible question! 🫣

But I had to ask. ☺️

Here are mine:

⭐Fiction: The Queen's Cook by Tessa Afshar
⭐Nonfiction: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
⭐Christian Nonfiction: Gracelaced by Ruth Chou Simons
⭐Christian True Story: Defying Jihad by Esther Ahmed

➡️What are yours?

This is such an impossible question! 🫣

But I had to ask. ☺️

Here are mine:

⭐Fiction: The Queen's Cook by Tessa Afshar
⭐Nonfiction: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
⭐Christian Nonfiction: Gracelaced by Ruth Chou Simons
⭐Christian True Story: Defying Jihad by Esther Ahmed

➡️What are yours?

✨ Illustrator Spotlight ✨

➡️Astrid Sheckles @astridsheckelsart

Today for #livingbooklegacy we are sharing about a favorite Illustrator.

I was recently introduced to Astrid's illustrations and have since enjoyed finding more of her work!! 💞

Her artwork is gorgeous and pulls you right into the pages of the story! 😍

Pictured here:

⭐ The Fish House Door
⭐ Hector Fox and the Giant Quest (definitely hoping to collect this whole series)

👏🏽 Who is your favorite Illustrator?

For more illustrator highlights check out my friend's posts:

@agoodbookhunt
@thisnewday_
@treasuredhourbookshop
@juiceboxhomeschool
@thesewildknights
@playinghomeschool

.

#astridsheckles #islandportpress #picturebooks #illustratorhighlight #illustratorsofinstagram

✨ Illustrator Spotlight ✨

➡️Astrid Sheckles @astridsheckelsart

Today for #livingbooklegacy we are sharing about a favorite Illustrator.

I was recently introduced to Astrid's illustrations and have since enjoyed finding more of her work!! 💞

Her artwork is gorgeous and pulls you right into the pages of the story! 😍

Pictured here:

⭐ The Fish House Door
⭐ Hector Fox and the Giant Quest (definitely hoping to collect this whole series)

👏🏽 Who is your favorite Illustrator?

For more illustrator highlights check out my friend's posts:

@agoodbookhunt
@thisnewday_
@treasuredhourbookshop
@juiceboxhomeschool
@thesewildknights
@playinghomeschool

.

#astridsheckles #islandportpress #picturebooks #illustratorhighlight #illustratorsofinstagram

✨ First Read Aloud Chapter Books ✨

This is one of my favorite book lists to share because I have so many amazing memories reading these to my boys!! 💕

These are perfect for ages 4-6 (but older ones may enjoy them as well)! 😊

➡️ If you want a free list of all of these PLUS a ton more, comment "FIRST" and I'll send you the list!!

👋🏽 What is one of your favorite first chapter books?

.

.

#chapterbooks
#firstchapterbook
#earlyreading #readaloud #readalouds #firstreaders

✨ First Read Aloud Chapter Books ✨

This is one of my favorite book lists to share because I have so many amazing memories reading these to my boys!! 💕

These are perfect for ages 4-6 (but older ones may enjoy them as well)! 😊

➡️ If you want a free list of all of these PLUS a ton more, comment "FIRST" and I'll send you the list!!

👋🏽 What is one of your favorite first chapter books?

.

.

#chapterbooks
#firstchapterbook
#earlyreading #readaloud #readalouds #firstreaders

✨ My favorite places to buy books ⤵️

• BookOutlet.com - this website isn't safe for me! 🫣☺️ But it is usually the first place I check for books.

• Pango Books - I really enjoy this app!

• Thriftbooks - After having a few rough experiences with their quality, I don't use them as much as I used to, but their customer service is spectacular!

• Don't sleep on eBay! - It is a fantastic resource to find books.

• Mercari and Amazon used books are a little more hit and miss, but I do utilize them from time to time.

• Amazon does run sales periodically throughout the year and often will have discounts on books. Creating a wish list on Amazon is an easy way to find sales you're looking for quickly!

• BookFinder.com - this website is a fantastic resource if you're searching for a specific book and don't feel like doing a ton of shopping around. It will find the places the book is available and you can compare cost, shipping, condition and more!

✨Bonus: Thrift stores!!! I love a good thrift haul! 💕

➡️ Where do you mostly shop for books?

.

#bookstagram #booksonabudget #homelibrary #buildyourlibrary #shopforbooks

✨ My favorite places to buy books ⤵️

• BookOutlet.com - this website isn't safe for me! 🫣☺️ But it is usually the first place I check for books.

• Pango Books - I really enjoy this app!

• Thriftbooks - After having a few rough experiences with their quality, I don't use them as much as I used to, but their customer service is spectacular!

• Don't sleep on eBay! - It is a fantastic resource to find books.

• Mercari and Amazon used books are a little more hit and miss, but I do utilize them from time to time.

• Amazon does run sales periodically throughout the year and often will have discounts on books. Creating a wish list on Amazon is an easy way to find sales you're looking for quickly!

• BookFinder.com - this website is a fantastic resource if you're searching for a specific book and don't feel like doing a ton of shopping around. It will find the places the book is available and you can compare cost, shipping, condition and more!

✨Bonus: Thrift stores!!! I love a good thrift haul! 💕

➡️ Where do you mostly shop for books?

.

#bookstagram #booksonabudget #homelibrary #buildyourlibrary #shopforbooks

📚 Spy any favorites? ⤵️

Five Favorite Picture Books we read and loved in January:

✨ Working Boats by Tom Crestodina

✨ The Man Who Didn't Like Animals by Deborah Underwood

✨ When Beavers Flew by Kristen Tracy

✨ The Knight and the Dragon by Tomie dePaola

✨ Togo by Robert J. Blake

➡️ What is a favorite picture book you read in January?

.

.

#picturebooks #picturebooksofinstagram #favoritepicturebook #readalouds #readaloudfamily #readaloud

📚 Spy any favorites? ⤵️

Five Favorite Picture Books we read and loved in January:

✨ Working Boats by Tom Crestodina

✨ The Man Who Didn't Like Animals by Deborah Underwood

✨ When Beavers Flew by Kristen Tracy

✨ The Knight and the Dragon by Tomie dePaola

✨ Togo by Robert J. Blake

➡️ What is a favorite picture book you read in January?

.

.

#picturebooks #picturebooksofinstagram #favoritepicturebook #readalouds #readaloudfamily #readaloud

✨January Reads ✨

➡️ Full reviews of all of these can be found in my 2025 reading highlight!!

⭐5 Stars

•The Light in Hidden Places by Sharon Cameron
•Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
•Volumes 2 & 3 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower

⭐ 4 Stars

• Before the King by Heather Kaufman
• The Sentinels of Andersonville by Tracy Groot
• Volume 1 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M Lion by Beth Brower

⭐ 3 Stars

• Collision of Lies by Tom Threadgill
• The Common Rule by Justin Earley

⭐ 2 Stars

• Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys - A low review due to the content and the audience it's intended for.

⭐ One book I wish I had stopped reading:

• The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon - I know everyone loves this book, and while I enjoyed the writing style, I did not enjoy the content.

➡️ I also had three DNFs (which isn't super uncommon for me as a mood reader, but these were for specific things):

•The Hidden Storyteller by Mandy Robotham - I didn't love that the main character was away from her husband and enjoying another man's company.

• Artifice and Bluebird by Sharon Cameron - Tons of swearing in the first and the second felt very empty to me.

👋🏽 What are you hoping to read in February?

.

.

#booksforwomen
#BookLoverMom
#BookishMom
#bookreviews
#christianfiction
#christianbookstagram

✨January Reads ✨

➡️ Full reviews of all of these can be found in my 2025 reading highlight!!

⭐5 Stars

•The Light in Hidden Places by Sharon Cameron
•Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
•Volumes 2 & 3 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower

⭐ 4 Stars

• Before the King by Heather Kaufman
• The Sentinels of Andersonville by Tracy Groot
• Volume 1 of the Unselected Journals of Emma M Lion by Beth Brower

⭐ 3 Stars

• Collision of Lies by Tom Threadgill
• The Common Rule by Justin Earley

⭐ 2 Stars

• Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys - A low review due to the content and the audience it's intended for.

⭐ One book I wish I had stopped reading:

• The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon - I know everyone loves this book, and while I enjoyed the writing style, I did not enjoy the content.

➡️ I also had three DNFs (which isn't super uncommon for me as a mood reader, but these were for specific things):

•The Hidden Storyteller by Mandy Robotham - I didn't love that the main character was away from her husband and enjoying another man's company.

• Artifice and Bluebird by Sharon Cameron - Tons of swearing in the first and the second felt very empty to me.

👋🏽 What are you hoping to read in February?

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#booksforwomen
#BookLoverMom
#BookishMom
#bookreviews
#christianfiction
#christianbookstagram

❤️ Valentine's Day Books ❤️

👏🏽 Our Favorites:

• Somebody Loves You, Mr. hatch by Eileen Spinelli

• The Day it Rained Hearts by Felicia Bond

• A Village of Valentines by James Stevenson

• One Zillion Valentine's by Frank Morell

• Love Is by Diane Adams

• Little Blue Truck's Valentine by Alice Schertle

• A Friend Who Forgives by Dan Dewitt

• Valentine by Voice of the Martyrs

• The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross by Carl Laferton

• The Love Letter by Anika Denise

• The Valentine Bears by Eve Bunting

• One More Hug by Megan Alexander

➡️ Have you read any of these?

✨ For more book suggestions, check out the posts from my #livingbooklegacy friends:

@playinghomeschool
@thesewildknights
@treasuredhourbookshop
@agoodbookhunt
@juiceboxhomeschool
@letthemlovelearning
@livingbrighthomeschool
@homewithmytinies

❤️ Valentine's Day Books ❤️

👏🏽 Our Favorites:

• Somebody Loves You, Mr. hatch by Eileen Spinelli

• The Day it Rained Hearts by Felicia Bond

• A Village of Valentines by James Stevenson

• One Zillion Valentine's by Frank Morell

• Love Is by Diane Adams

• Little Blue Truck's Valentine by Alice Schertle

• A Friend Who Forgives by Dan Dewitt

• Valentine by Voice of the Martyrs

• The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross by Carl Laferton

• The Love Letter by Anika Denise

• The Valentine Bears by Eve Bunting

• One More Hug by Megan Alexander

➡️ Have you read any of these?

✨ For more book suggestions, check out the posts from my #livingbooklegacy friends:

@playinghomeschool
@thesewildknights
@treasuredhourbookshop
@agoodbookhunt
@juiceboxhomeschool
@letthemlovelearning
@livingbrighthomeschool
@homewithmytinies

✨ Spy any favorites? ⤵️

You asked, so I created a master list of favorite board books, which includes all of these and many more!! ☺️

If the time ever comes where my kids are too grown up for board books it's going to be hard to let go! 😭

➡️ Comment "Littles" to receive the list straight to your inbox!

📚 What are some of your favorite board books?

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#boardbooks #boardbooksforkids #kidsbookstagram #kidsbooksofinstagram #booksfortoddlers #booksforbabies #readaloudfamily

✨ Spy any favorites? ⤵️

You asked, so I created a master list of favorite board books, which includes all of these and many more!! ☺️

If the time ever comes where my kids are too grown up for board books it's going to be hard to let go! 😭

➡️ Comment "Littles" to receive the list straight to your inbox!

📚 What are some of your favorite board books?

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.

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#boardbooks #boardbooksforkids #kidsbookstagram #kidsbooksofinstagram #booksfortoddlers #booksforbabies #readaloudfamily

✨ Who's joining me in February? ⤵️

I asked you to vote between two books for February and this is the book you chose! ☺️

➡️ The Book: The Burning of Rosemont Abbey by Naomi Stephens

This is a Christian historical suspense that was released last fall. I'm so excited to read it! 👏🏽

👋🏽 This month I will be hosting the read along exclusively on the FABLE App! I have been trying it out for the last several months and really like it. It allows for a more cohesive group experience!

If you'd like to join, comment below and I'll send you all the details! 💕🤗

I'm excited to read along with you!

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#christianbookclub #booksforwomen #womenwhoread
#bookclubfirwomen #christianfiction #readalong

✨ Who's joining me in February? ⤵️

I asked you to vote between two books for February and this is the book you chose! ☺️

➡️ The Book: The Burning of Rosemont Abbey by Naomi Stephens

This is a Christian historical suspense that was released last fall. I'm so excited to read it! 👏🏽

👋🏽 This month I will be hosting the read along exclusively on the FABLE App! I have been trying it out for the last several months and really like it. It allows for a more cohesive group experience!

If you'd like to join, comment below and I'll send you all the details! 💕🤗

I'm excited to read along with you!

.

.

#christianbookclub #booksforwomen #womenwhoread
#bookclubfirwomen #christianfiction #readalong

❄️ February Book List ❄️

Looking for some fun picture books to read this month?

I have created a free book list PLUS a printable calendar of some of our favorite books to read in February!

➡️ The printable calendar is a great tool to take along on your library trip!

These stories include topics like compassion, family, adventures, and true stories (because those are our favorite). 🤗

Comment "February" to receive the link straight to your DMs.

✨What books are you reading?

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#februarybooks #picturebooksofinstagram #readalouds #readingtogether #booksforjanuary #februarypicturebooks #februarybooklist #readaloudfamily

❄️ February Book List ❄️

Looking for some fun picture books to read this month?

I have created a free book list PLUS a printable calendar of some of our favorite books to read in February!

➡️ The printable calendar is a great tool to take along on your library trip!

These stories include topics like compassion, family, adventures, and true stories (because those are our favorite). 🤗

Comment "February" to receive the link straight to your DMs.

✨What books are you reading?

.

.

#februarybooks #picturebooksofinstagram #readalouds #readingtogether #booksforjanuary #februarypicturebooks #februarybooklist #readaloudfamily

✨ Give or take minutes (or half hours) 😆⤵️

👏🏽 When I was still in school, I read all of the time. Literally. I would even try to clean with a book in my hand. 😁

As I became a mom and then began homeschooling, I found my time eaten up by other things. I found that even though I was still reading aloud to my kids, I missed reading books for my own enjoyment and relaxation.

➡️ One habit I have adopted is the simple practice of reading for 15 mins in the morning, 15 mins in the afternoon, and 15 mins in the evening.

Sometimes this is shorter, sometimes longer (mostly longer), but it's that simple.
You should try it too! 😍

✨ When do you find time to read? ⬇️

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#readinghabits #BusyMomReads #MomLifeBalance
#ReadingForMoms #MomTime #BookLoverMom #BookishMom #MomReadsToo #LiteraryMama

✨ Give or take minutes (or half hours) 😆⤵️

👏🏽 When I was still in school, I read all of the time. Literally. I would even try to clean with a book in my hand. 😁

As I became a mom and then began homeschooling, I found my time eaten up by other things. I found that even though I was still reading aloud to my kids, I missed reading books for my own enjoyment and relaxation.

➡️ One habit I have adopted is the simple practice of reading for 15 mins in the morning, 15 mins in the afternoon, and 15 mins in the evening.

Sometimes this is shorter, sometimes longer (mostly longer), but it's that simple.
You should try it too! 😍

✨ When do you find time to read? ⬇️

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.

#readinghabits #BusyMomReads #MomLifeBalance
#ReadingForMoms #MomTime #BookLoverMom #BookishMom #MomReadsToo #LiteraryMama

❄️ Winter Read Alouds ❄️

Today for #livingbooklegacy my friends and I are sharing favorite winter chapter books! 💕

Winter is such a cozy time to curl up with a good book!
Here are a few of our favorites:

✨ A Long Road in a Short Day by Gary D. Schmidt

✨ The Very, Very AFar North and Just Beyond the Very, Very Far North by Dan Bar-el

✨ Heartwood Hotel The Greatest Gift by Kallie George

✨ Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard Atwater

✨ More Adventures of Geraldine Woolkins by Karin Kaufman

✨Bonus Books: Farmer Boy and little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder

➡️ What books would you add?

For more books suggestions, check out my friend's posts:

@playinghomeschool
@thisnewday_
@alearningwewillgo
@juiceboxhomeschool
@treasuredhourbookshop

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#winterchapterbooks #winterreadalouds #winterbooks #kidlit #winterbooksforkids #readaloudfamily

❄️ Winter Read Alouds ❄️

Today for #livingbooklegacy my friends and I are sharing favorite winter chapter books! 💕

Winter is such a cozy time to curl up with a good book!
Here are a few of our favorites:

✨ A Long Road in a Short Day by Gary D. Schmidt

✨ The Very, Very AFar North and Just Beyond the Very, Very Far North by Dan Bar-el

✨ Heartwood Hotel The Greatest Gift by Kallie George

✨ Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard Atwater

✨ More Adventures of Geraldine Woolkins by Karin Kaufman

✨Bonus Books: Farmer Boy and little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder

➡️ What books would you add?

For more books suggestions, check out my friend's posts:

@playinghomeschool
@thisnewday_
@alearningwewillgo
@juiceboxhomeschool
@treasuredhourbookshop

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.

#winterchapterbooks #winterreadalouds #winterbooks #kidlit #winterbooksforkids #readaloudfamily

✨ Winter Picture Books ✨

I just updated and added to my winter picture book list and it's a beauty! Seasonal picture books are some of my favorites! ☺️

A few of our favorite winter stories:

❄️ Big as now by Jonathan Bean
❄️ Blizzard by John Rocco
❄️ Mr. Magre Learns to Ski by Chris van Dusen
❄️ Rescuing Titanic by Flora Delargy

✨If you're wanting some amazing stories to read during this winter, comment "Winter" and I'll send you the link to my book list!

➡️ Do you have a favorite winter picture book?

** Also, please excuse the sentence typo in my reel. 🫣 I don't have time to change it so here's to real life! 🥂🤗

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#WinterReadsForKids #KidsWinterBooks #SnowyStories
#WinterBookList #CozyReading #WinterPictureBooks #KidsBooksForWinter

✨ Winter Picture Books ✨

I just updated and added to my winter picture book list and it's a beauty! Seasonal picture books are some of my favorites! ☺️

A few of our favorite winter stories:

❄️ Big as now by Jonathan Bean
❄️ Blizzard by John Rocco
❄️ Mr. Magre Learns to Ski by Chris van Dusen
❄️ Rescuing Titanic by Flora Delargy

✨If you're wanting some amazing stories to read during this winter, comment "Winter" and I'll send you the link to my book list!

➡️ Do you have a favorite winter picture book?

** Also, please excuse the sentence typo in my reel. 🫣 I don't have time to change it so here's to real life! 🥂🤗

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#WinterReadsForKids #KidsWinterBooks #SnowyStories
#WinterBookList #CozyReading #WinterPictureBooks #KidsBooksForWinter

✨ Looking for some clean fiction to read this year? ⤵️

Look no further! 👏🏽

I put together a list of all of my favorite clean fiction reads and I want to share it with you!!

If you have read most of what I've shown you in this reel, don't worry! This list is full of my FOUR and FIVE star reads from years worth of reading! 💞

These books have been vetted and read through a Biblical lens, meaning no bedroom scenes and minimal language.

➡️ Comment "Fiction" below and I'll send the list to your inbox!

💫What are some of your favorite clean fiction reads? ⤵️

✨The books in this reel:

• The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower

• If I Run by Terri Blackstock

• Counted With the Stars by Connilyn Cossette

• When the Day Comes by Gabrielle Meyer

• Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes

• Born of Gilded Mountains by Amanda Dykes

• The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip by Sara Brunsvold

• The Queen's Cook by Tessa Afshar

• Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate

• The Italian Ballerina by Kristy Cambron

• A Midnight Dance by Joanna Davidson Politano

• The Light in Hidden Places by Sharon Cameron

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#cleanfiction #booksforwomen #wholesomereads #inspiringreads #womenwhoread #fictionforwomen #cleanfictionforher #cleanfictionbooklist

✨ Looking for some clean fiction to read this year? ⤵️

Look no further! 👏🏽

I put together a list of all of my favorite clean fiction reads and I want to share it with you!!

If you have read most of what I've shown you in this reel, don't worry! This list is full of my FOUR and FIVE star reads from years worth of reading! 💞

These books have been vetted and read through a Biblical lens, meaning no bedroom scenes and minimal language.

➡️ Comment "Fiction" below and I'll send the list to your inbox!

💫What are some of your favorite clean fiction reads? ⤵️

✨The books in this reel:

• The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower

• If I Run by Terri Blackstock

• Counted With the Stars by Connilyn Cossette

• When the Day Comes by Gabrielle Meyer

• Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes

• Born of Gilded Mountains by Amanda Dykes

• The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip by Sara Brunsvold

• The Queen's Cook by Tessa Afshar

• Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate

• The Italian Ballerina by Kristy Cambron

• A Midnight Dance by Joanna Davidson Politano

• The Light in Hidden Places by Sharon Cameron

.

.

#cleanfiction #booksforwomen #wholesomereads #inspiringreads #womenwhoread #fictionforwomen #cleanfictionforher #cleanfictionbooklist

✨ January Read Along Discussion Post ✨

This is the halfway discussion post for January read along:
Anne of Green Gables!

If you are halfway or more through the book, this post is for you! 😁 If you're not quite there yet, I suggest reading through chapter 19 and coming back once you're there!

The final discussion post will be January 31.

✨✨

I've listed three questions in the comments below to begin the discussion. Please feel free to respond, reply, and create your own comments for any insights you'd like to add! 💕

✨ January Read Along Discussion Post ✨

This is the halfway discussion post for January read along:
Anne of Green Gables!

If you are halfway or more through the book, this post is for you! 😁 If you're not quite there yet, I suggest reading through chapter 19 and coming back once you're there!

The final discussion post will be January 31.

✨✨

I've listed three questions in the comments below to begin the discussion. Please feel free to respond, reply, and create your own comments for any insights you'd like to add! 💕

Hey friend! 👋 Welcome to This New Day!

My name is Sonya! I'm married to my wonderful husband and am a second-generation homeschool mom to three (two boys ages 8 and 5 and a baby girl who is one). 😊

A few random things about me:

➡️ Mood reading is what I do best and I'm usually overly-optimistic about how many books can be read.

➡️ I enjoy eating food I didn't cook! 🤗

✨ What you'll find in this space:

• Book reviews: Due to time restraints, these will MOSTLY happen in my stories this year (saved in a highlight) and will look like mini reviews.

However, they will still include all of the usual content warnings and honest thoughts. Helping you make informed choices for your family is important to me.

• Book Lists: I enjoy creating topical book lists! I am hoping to create at least one new list each month. I have many available in my website for you to check out!

• Homeschool: I understand it's nice when an account has a niche. But for us, books and homeschool go hand-in-hand. You can't have one without the other. 😉 I enjoy sharing the books we use for studying various topics (especially history).

• Read Along: Each month I am planning on choosing a book that we can read and chat about together!

✨ My hope is that everything I share points to Christ. The reviews I write, the thoughts I share, and the books I choose are all filtered through a Biblical lens.

I am still learning how to balance time and this app, but I hope you will stick around to chat about books! It's my favorite thing to do! 💗😉

🎧 I'm currently listening to:

The Light in Hidden Places by Sharon Cameron - it has been excellent! 👌🏽

📖 I'm currently reading:

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery for our January read along!

• Before the King by Heather Kaufman - releasing this month!

• The Common Rule by Justin Whitmel Earley - his book, Habits for the Household, is one of my favorites!

🎇 I would love to hear from you! What are you reading right now?

✨Also, stop by say hi to my book friends from #livingbooklegacy:

@treasuredhourbookshop
@agoodbookhunt
@juiceboxhomeschool
@letthemlovelearning
@thesewildknights

Hey friend! 👋 Welcome to This New Day!

My name is Sonya! I'm married to my wonderful husband and am a second-generation homeschool mom to three (two boys ages 8 and 5 and a baby girl who is one). 😊

A few random things about me:

➡️ Mood reading is what I do best and I'm usually overly-optimistic about how many books can be read.

➡️ I enjoy eating food I didn't cook! 🤗

✨ What you'll find in this space:

• Book reviews: Due to time restraints, these will MOSTLY happen in my stories this year (saved in a highlight) and will look like mini reviews.

However, they will still include all of the usual content warnings and honest thoughts. Helping you make informed choices for your family is important to me.

• Book Lists: I enjoy creating topical book lists! I am hoping to create at least one new list each month. I have many available in my website for you to check out!

• Homeschool: I understand it's nice when an account has a niche. But for us, books and homeschool go hand-in-hand. You can't have one without the other. 😉 I enjoy sharing the books we use for studying various topics (especially history).

• Read Along: Each month I am planning on choosing a book that we can read and chat about together!

✨ My hope is that everything I share points to Christ. The reviews I write, the thoughts I share, and the books I choose are all filtered through a Biblical lens.

I am still learning how to balance time and this app, but I hope you will stick around to chat about books! It's my favorite thing to do! 💗😉

🎧 I'm currently listening to:

The Light in Hidden Places by Sharon Cameron - it has been excellent! 👌🏽

📖 I'm currently reading:

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery for our January read along!

• Before the King by Heather Kaufman - releasing this month!

• The Common Rule by Justin Whitmel Earley - his book, Habits for the Household, is one of my favorites!

🎇 I would love to hear from you! What are you reading right now?

✨Also, stop by say hi to my book friends from #livingbooklegacy:

@treasuredhourbookshop
@agoodbookhunt
@juiceboxhomeschool
@letthemlovelearning
@thesewildknights

✨ Friday Book Feature ✨

A post series where I share new releases or recent family favorites on Fridays. 😉

👏🏽 The Very Best Bible Stories picture book series from @thegoodbookcompanyusa

With short, interactive text and colorful illustrations, these books are perfect for your littlest kiddos! 💞

✨ Currently, the series includes the stories of Creation, Moses, Delilah, Esther, Daniel, Jonah, Easter, Christmas, and the newest addition, Joshua.

➡️ For links to these and, all of my other favorite discipleship books for kids, comment "Discipleship" and I'll send the link straight to your inbox!

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#thegoodbookcompanyusa #theverybestbiblestories #biblestoriesforkids #readtoyourkids #readalouds #discipleshipbooksforkids #kidlit #discipleshipresources #kidsdiscipleship

✨ Friday Book Feature ✨

A post series where I share new releases or recent family favorites on Fridays. 😉

👏🏽 The Very Best Bible Stories picture book series from @thegoodbookcompanyusa

With short, interactive text and colorful illustrations, these books are perfect for your littlest kiddos! 💞

✨ Currently, the series includes the stories of Creation, Moses, Delilah, Esther, Daniel, Jonah, Easter, Christmas, and the newest addition, Joshua.

➡️ For links to these and, all of my other favorite discipleship books for kids, comment "Discipleship" and I'll send the link straight to your inbox!

.

.

.

#thegoodbookcompanyusa #theverybestbiblestories #biblestoriesforkids #readtoyourkids #readalouds #discipleshipbooksforkids #kidlit #discipleshipresources #kidsdiscipleship

✨ Ask the Kids - Favorite Books from 2024 ✨

It's always fun to ask my boys what books they have enjoyed most! Today for #livingbooklegacy we are sharing our kid's favorites - my boys each chose two book series to share!

🎇 Both boys agreed that the Mansoul Chronicles from @lithoskids is their overall favorite book from last year!

🎇 My Five-year-old's other favorites:

• The World According to Humphrey series by Betty G. Birney

• Little Pilgrim's Big Journey series (but he especially enjoyed part three)

🎇 My eight-year-old's other favorites:

• Mice of the Herringbone series and Mice of the Westing Wind series by Tim Davis

• His favorite independent reads were the Billy and Blaze series by C.W. Anderson.

🎇 My One-year-old's favorites include any books right now, but her favorites based on how often she brings them to me, would be:

• Usborne Zoo Sounds

• Fergus Barnaby Goes on Vacation by David Barrow

➡️ Have you read any of these?

For more book fun, check out my friend's posts:

@playinghomeschool
@treasuredhourbookshop
@agoodbookhunt
@juiceboxhomeschool
@blessedwithmotherhood

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.

#livingbooks #chapterbooks #favoritebooks #readtoyourkids #kidlit #readaloudsforkids #kidsbookstagram

✨ Ask the Kids - Favorite Books from 2024 ✨

It's always fun to ask my boys what books they have enjoyed most! Today for #livingbooklegacy we are sharing our kid's favorites - my boys each chose two book series to share!

🎇 Both boys agreed that the Mansoul Chronicles from @lithoskids is their overall favorite book from last year!

🎇 My Five-year-old's other favorites:

• The World According to Humphrey series by Betty G. Birney

• Little Pilgrim's Big Journey series (but he especially enjoyed part three)

🎇 My eight-year-old's other favorites:

• Mice of the Herringbone series and Mice of the Westing Wind series by Tim Davis

• His favorite independent reads were the Billy and Blaze series by C.W. Anderson.

🎇 My One-year-old's favorites include any books right now, but her favorites based on how often she brings them to me, would be:

• Usborne Zoo Sounds

• Fergus Barnaby Goes on Vacation by David Barrow

➡️ Have you read any of these?

For more book fun, check out my friend's posts:

@playinghomeschool
@treasuredhourbookshop
@agoodbookhunt
@juiceboxhomeschool
@blessedwithmotherhood

.

.

#livingbooks #chapterbooks #favoritebooks #readtoyourkids #kidlit #readaloudsforkids #kidsbookstagram

✨ Are there any you would recommend?

This was such a fun list to put together! I don't often plan out my reading, but I wanted to make a list of books that I want to make sure I get to this year! 💞

👋🏽 This list doesn't include any new releases that I'm looking forward to!

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#booksforwomen #christianbooks #christianbooksforwomen #christianfiction #christiannonfiction #booklist
#25in2025

✨ Are there any you would recommend?

This was such a fun list to put together! I don't often plan out my reading, but I wanted to make a list of books that I want to make sure I get to this year! 💞

👋🏽 This list doesn't include any new releases that I'm looking forward to!

.

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#booksforwomen #christianbooks #christianbooksforwomen #christianfiction #christiannonfiction #booklist
#25in2025

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The Hike

Aug 13, 20221 min read

This post may contain affiliate links, so I receive a small commission when you purchase through them. Thank you for supporting This New Day and our little family.

FROM THE BOOK:

Wren, El, and Hattie are off! These three explorers set out to conquer their forest. Lyrical and joyous, this adventure captures the highs and lows of a hike with friends - detours, discoveries, beauty, and all.

PURCHASING OPTIONS:

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