Tag: Fiction

Categories
Down The TBR Hole

Down the TBR Hole #221 – 240

Welcome to Down the TBR Hole #221-240!  What is Down the TBR Hole?  It is where I grab 20 books from my insanely long TBR list on Goodreads and decide if I am keeping or removing the books.  Need to catch up?  Click here to go to the previous post.  As a reminder, here are the rules:

I think this is the first week ever that I am starting with the same number I ended with in the last post.  I’m proud of myself, but I am also struggling because I am not reading books on my TBR list as I should be.  If you follow me on Instagram, you would have seen previously that I am on both a Kindle Unlimited and Black Romance kick right now.  And I haven’t taken the time to add any books that I want to read on my TBR.  I just read them. Kicking off this week with 4,657 books on my TBR list.  Let’s get started.

 

 

 

1. Financially Fearless: The LearnVest Program for Taking Control of Your Money by Alexa Von Tobel

I would love to learn more about this 50/20/30 plan they have, so I am keeping this one.

 

 

 

 

 

2. Live It, Love It, Earn It: A Woman’s Guide to Financial Freedom by Marianna Olszewski

I’ll probably be keeping all the finance books because it is a passion of mine, and I could learn all day long about this topic.  It’s also a plus that it’s a female author.  Keeping this one.

 

 

 

 

 

3. The Laws of Money, The Lessons of Life: 5 Timeless Secrets to Get Out and Stay Out of Financial Trouble by Suze Orman

One of the original people I started to follow when it came to finances (a true OG).  Keeping her on the list.

 

 

 

 

 

4. MONEY Master the Game: 7 Simple Steps to Financial Freedom by Tony Robbins

I’ve heard of Tony Robbins as a motivational speaker but not in the financial world.  But I love that it appears he did his research by reaching out to the experts to write this book. I am keeping this one.

 

 

 

 

 

5. Smart Women Finish Rich: 9 Steps to Achieving Financial Security and Funding Your Dreams by David Bach

I’m not a fan of men who write books for women.  So I am removing this one.

 

 

 

 

 

 

6. The Richest Man In Babylon by George S. Clason

This is one of those classic books but one that I don’t mind reading.  I am keeping this one.

 

 

 

 

 

7. Your Money and Your Man: How You and Prince Charming Can Spend Well and Live Rich by Michelle Singletary

Another OG in the financial world for me.  It’s a major plus that she is a woman of color because until recently, I wasn’t seeing anyone that looked like me in the “famous” financial world (think Dave Ramsey and Suze Orman).  I am keeping this book.

 

 

 

 

 

8. Spend Well, Live Rich by Michelle Singletary

Another one from Michelle Singletary and I have had this book on my list for so long.  I am keeping this one.

 

 

 

 

 

9. Listen, Love, Repeat: Other-Centered Living in a Self-Centered World by Karen Ehman

I believe once upon a time, I was very others-centered.  I regularly did for others, helped others, and put others first.  Somewhere along the way, I gave that up and became super all about me.  There has to be some balance I can achieve.  So I am keeping this one.

 

 

 

 

10. Beyond Jabez: Expanding Your Borders by Bruce Wilkinson

Okay, so apparently this book is a follow up to his original book, Prayer of Jabez (which is also on my list).  Both books are about prayer but the first book, more specifically on 1st Chronicles 4:10.  I had to look up the verse, and it makes me wonder why out of all the prayers in the Bible, this is the one that was chosen to write a book on.  I am removing this one.

 

 

 

 

 

11. Sister Betty! God’s Calling You, Again! by Pat G’Orge-Walker

Oh my goodness, this seems like it would be a funny book.  I haven’t read too many funny Christian books (at least I think this is Christian fiction, but it is for sure African American fiction), so I am keeping this one.

 

 

 

 

 

12. Drawn to Destiny: How to Discover and Bring to Fruition Your True Purpose in Life by Yvonne Capehart

Hmm, so I think the purpose of my life books has come back around as an interest for me.  No telling if that will be the case by the time I get around to reading some of these, but for now, I will keep this one.

 

 

 

 

 

13. What Do I Know About My God? by Mardi Collier

One thing I like about this book is that it speaks about reading the Bible to get to know God.  The other thing is that it includes a study method.  I am keeping this one.

 

 

 

 

 

14. The Pursuit of God: The Human Thirst for the Divine by A.W. Tozer

One of the classics.  A.W. Tozer is one of those Christian authors I always see quoted.  And while I may have removed some of his other books until I know more about him, I know this particular book is one that I want to read.  I am keeping this one.

 

 

 

 

 

15. Let Me Be A Woman by Elisabeth Elliot

I was torn with this book.  While I would love to “learn what it means to be a woman” by starting “with the One who made her.”, a part of me is not wanting to limit my focus on just being a woman.  I’m going to go ahead and remove this one.

 

 

 

 

 

16. The Role of a Lifetime – The Script God Wrote for Women by Claudia Barba

Remember what I just said up above?  This is why I am torn.  Because this study seems more like a book that I would read about God’s role for women.  That means I am keeping it.

 

 

 

 

17. The 21 Tenets of Biblical Feminity: Transforming Girls into Young Ladies by Jerry & Sheryl Ross

My initial thought was, did Jerry throw his wife in as an author because he knew how wrong it was for a man to write about Femininity? Although I wouldn’t mind reading about this topic, it grinds my gears that the primary author is a man.  There are so many books by amazing women that write about this topic.  Removing this one.

 

 

 

18. The Choice is Yours: Life Happens. Walking with God is a Decision. by Terrie Chappell

From personal experience, I’ve learned recently that decision fatigue is a real thing.  I want not to have to make as many decisions on matters and want to be led more by God’s Spirit with things.  That’s also why a primary focus of the Year of Healthy is building habits. I am keeping this one.

 

 

 

 

19. Secrets of a Happy Heart by Debi Pryde

It was a little challenging to find the synopsis for this book, which tells me I added it from a recommendation list.  But it is a study of Titus 2.  That happens to be one of my favorite chapters in the Bible.  I am keeping this one.

 

 

20. What is Modesty by Michelle Brock

Most of my life, I have been a pretty conservative dresser.  I like to be comfortable and am not a fan of showing a ton of skin.  But the older I get, the more I wonder about the balance of being modest and being sexy (which I also enjoy).  I want to look and feel good.  And as much as I love a good pair of ball shorts and a tee, I also love a good dress.  I am keeping this one. (fun fact: I took a 2-second break after getting a message on IG and scrolled for a second and saw a modest apparel company advertised.  👋🏾 Big Brother 🤣)

 

Final Count: Removing 4; Keeping 16

TBR Down to 4,653

Another week’s list that has quite a few books about money and finances, which continue to go in line with January’s Year of Healthy theme.  Have you read any of these books? Did I make a mistake with removing or keeping one?

Categories
Down The TBR Hole

Down The TBR Hole #161-180

Welcome to Down the TBR Hole #161-180!  What is Down the TBR Hole?  It is where I grab 20 books from my crazy long TBR list on Goodreads and decide if I am keeping or removing the books.  Need to catch up?  Click here to go to the previous post.  As a reminder, here are the rules:

I’ve been neglecting my Goodreads account lately, which means I haven’t added too many books, but I’m starting this week off with 4,669 books.  Let’s get started!

1. Ten Tiny Breaths by K.A. Tucker

Romance is my go-to when I need a break from all of the heavy self-help and Christian books I’ve been favoring for the last few years.  I tend to read them very quickly, so it helps when I want to clear my mind and not have to “think” too much.  This plot seems to have plenty of twists and turns and looks like an exciting read, so I am keeping this one.

 

2. One Tiny Lie by K.A. Tucker

A standalone book, but second in the Ten Tiny Breaths series, this one follows the other sister and seems just as interesting as the first.  I go through my spurts with series.  Sometimes I love following the characters and don’t mind reading 2-3 books, and other times I hate the story didn’t finish in the first book.  But my favorite is when each novel can be standalone and follows a character individually.  I am keeping this one.

 

 

3. Four Seconds to Lose by K.A. Tucker

Still in the same series as the two books above, I don’t feel the need to have every book in this series on my TBR list.  If I love the previous two, I will add this one and read it.  With that said, I am removing this one.

 

 

4. Five Ways to Fall by K.A. Tucker

Book four in the above series.  I am removing this one and will add it back if I like the other ones enough.

 

 

5. In Her Wake by K.A. Tucker

This book looks like a prequel to book 1 in the above series.  Here are my thoughts on prequel books.  Most of the time, I don’t like them.  If I read them before book one, I feel like I know too much of the story to enjoy book one since most of the time, the author wrote the prequel afterward.  If I read it after book 1, things tend to start making sense (and this is my preference) but also feels like the author may have just thrown together a quick story from deleted scenes.  My experience has been very hit and miss with prequels.  So I am removing this one.

 

6. Maybe Someday by Colleen Hoover

Another romance that could help break up some of my more substantial reading.  I first heard about Colleen Hoover from her book Verity that was all over the internet this year.  And although I haven’t read it yet (it’s sitting on my Kindle), I heard good things about it.  I also tend to like romances that future music, so I’m keeping this one.

 

7. Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover

Ahhh, the love story where two people think they can be friends with benefits without catching feelings.  These books tend to be very predictable. After all, they will probably fall in love.  And I always find myself yelling at one of the characters, “JUST TELL HIM/HER YOU LIKE HER/HIM ALREADY.”  But it doesn’t stop me from reading them.  I am keeping this one.

 

 

8. November 9 by Colleen Hoover

A romance book about an author? Yes, please.  Keeping this one! (If I finish this tonight, this will be posted on November 9th.  Is that a sign that I should buy and read this book???)

 

9. Confess by Colleen Hoover

Clearly, on this particular day, I was either on a Colleen Hoover kick or working off a recommendation list that had all her books.  A woman looking for a job, finds a guy, and falls in love, but he has a secret.  Can I be honest?  I hate it when someone has a secret and hides it.  It is the same as a lie in my book, and I can’t handle it.  And I will stop reading a book if this happens at times.  It’s just not something I am willing to deal with in my fictional world.  So I am removing this one.

 

10. Collide by Gail McHugh

A girl who seems to overlook the guy who has helped her through her grief and falls for the apparent bad boy.  This always makes me feel bad for the guy ignored.  I am removing this one.

 

 

11. Pulse by Gail McHugh

Welp, now that I read this plot, I know what happens in the first book.  Thank goodness I removed it or that spoiler would suck.  I am removing this one.

 

 

 

12. Sweet Thing by Renee Carlino

Another romance featuring music story.  I will keep this one.

 

 

 

13. Boundaries by Henry Cloud

I touched on my thoughts on this book in a previous Down the TBR Hole post (the marriage one came up).  Someone let me borrow this book and the videos to go with, and I couldn’t get into them.  I am removing this one.

 

 

14. Let’s All Be Brave by Annie F. Downs

Fear is a huge factor in my life.  Add in my obsessive need to worry about the worst-case scenario, and it’s really shocking that I have done anything with my life.  It is something I would like to overcome, so I am keeping this one.

 

 

15. First Comes Love by Emily Griffin

A contemporary fiction book about the choices in life made by the characters and their struggle with where their life is currently and if they made the right decisions.  I am keeping this one.

 

16. I’m Judging You: The Do-Better Manual by Luvvie Ajayi

I had to have this book on my list because it just seemed that she was judging all of the things we judge others for in a comedic way.  I always said I was going to check out her blog since it was so popular, but I never got around to it.  Actually, let me do that now since I will want to link it anyway.  I use to follow her on IG, but I remember having to unfollow her because I didn’t agree with her opinion on something, and it was all she talked about for a while (and no, I have no clue what it was about now).  Either way, I am still interested in the book, so I am keeping it.

17. A Book of Prayer: 365 Prayers for Victorious Living by Stormie Omartian

The Pastor that married Chris and I gifted us with the military edition of Stormie Omartian books, Power of a Praying Wife and Power of a Praying Husband, for our first anniversary.  And although they probably collect more dust than they should, I enjoyed reading and highlighting mine all up.  They are pretty popular books, and I can see why.  I don’t really hear many people talk about her other books, but I am interested in reading more by her.  I am keeping this one.

 

18. Disciplines of a Godly Woman by Barbara Hughes

I’m more wary about books like this nowadays because I’ve learned that looking for a list of things that will make me a Godly woman will get me nowhere.  But seeing that this book actually points you in the direction of first and foremost having a relationship with God and then the outcome of that relationship is your desire to be Godly makes me feel better.  I am going to keep this one on the list for now.

 

19. Breaking Intimidation: Saying “No” Without Feeling Guilty.  Be Secure Without the Approval of Man. by John Bevere

I read his Bait of Satan book, which came highly recommended by so many people, and I didn’t really like it.  I can’t pinpoint if it was just the season I was in, the fact that he was blaming offense on the person who feels the offense or if it was just a bad book.  But I said I would give him one more chance.  I think I have mastered the art of saying no pretty well, though.  So I am removing this one.

 

20. Spurgeon’s Commentary on the Bible by Charles Spurgeon

This isn’t really a book to read but more of a book I would be interested in having amongst my Bible study materials.  I hear so much about Charles Spurgeon that he is a person I want to learn more about.  For now, I am removing this from my list.

 

Final Count: Removing 9; Keeping 11

TBR Down to 4,660

I feel like it took me no time to power through these 20 books! With so many romances, this list is a little different from my usual Down the TBR Hole post.  But that goes to show you, my TBR list is so grand and covers so many different genres.  I am sure you will find plenty of books that may interest you.  Let me know in the comments if you have read any of these books.  Do you think I made a mistake? Let’s chat about it!

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases using the links included in this post.

 

Categories
Down The TBR Hole

Down the TBR Hole #141-160

Welcome to Down the TBR Hole #141-160!  What is Down the TBR Hole?  It is where I grab 20 books from my insanely long TBR list on Goodreads and decide if I am keeping or removing the books.  Need to catch up?  Click here to go to the previous post.  As a reminder, here are the rules:

I am starting with 4,668 books this week on my To Read shelf on Goodreads.  I literally just added two new books, thanks to the YouTube video I am watching in the background while typing this up.  (Edit: before I finished this post, I added another book thanks to my reading last night.  Do you see why I have to do this post every week?  My list is ridiculous!) Let’s get started.

1. The Runaway Bride: Are you living for Jesus or are you running away from Him? by Heather Lindsey

The cover of this book makes it seems like it is going to be a fiction book, but it’s not.  This is entirely the wrong thought, but man, I feel like so many people should read a book about being a Sunday only Christian.  I’ve been there, and although things are far from perfect and let’s be honest, sometimes I feel like I struggle more now, I can’t imagine how people get through Monday through Saturday without the help of Jesus.  Now, with all of that said, I no longer feel like I need a book like this.  So I am going to be removing it.

 

2. The Pressure Trap: Breaking Free from the Pressures of Society to Become Who God Called You To Be by Heather Lindsey

I may need to actually buy this book and read it now because I feel like this has been my issue for the past few months.  With that said, I am keeping it.

 

3. Present Over Perfect: Leaving Behind Frantic for a Simpler, More Soulful Way of Living by Shauna Niequist

I actually own this book and feel like it has been recommended to me a bunch of times.   This is probably a book that I should have read when I was experiencing burnout.  Both when I was traditionally working and when I had my own business.  I do believe this is something that I could still struggle with, so I am keeping it.

4. One Minute Business Woman’s Devotional by Mike Murdock

Obviously, the cover shows how dated this book is, but it was recommended on one of my business lists.  It would be interesting if someone were able to update this based on today’s business world.  Because I feel like it may be dated and this isn’t my current season, I am removing it.

 

5. The Perfect Find by Tia Williams

This seems like a quick, quirky little romance that I wouldn’t mind reading in between my self-improvement books.  Those books can sometimes be a bit heavy, so reading about a woman who is working on a second chance in her career with a side of romance sounds like it would be the break I need.  I am keeping it.

 

6. You and Me Forever: Marriage in Light of Eternity by Francis Chan & Lisa Chan

I will say this with every marriage book on my list. Marriage is hard, and therefore I am keeping this book.  I absolutely love Francis Chan (check out my resource page on him) and have already read a few of his books.  So a book on biblical marriage is a no brainer for me to keep.  I also had this downloaded on Hoopla, but I had read quite a few Francis Chan books by this point and wanted to switch it up.

7. Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus by Ellie Claire

So here is some honesty.  I love buying these journals.  Yet I have not finished one at all.  I barely do them.  One of the goals I want to set for this year to help improve the health of my spiritual life is to add these types of devotionals for me to do each day.  But I do have a ton and don’t need to buy anymore until they are done.  So I will be removing this one.

8. The Meaning of Marriage: Facing the Complexities of Commitment with the Wisdom of God by Timothy J. Keller

Like I mentioned with the marriage book above, marriage is hard, so I will be keeping this one.  I need to read a book on marriage each month.  I’ll probably add this to my list of goals soon.

 

9. Gods at War: Defeating the Idols that Battle for Your Heart by Kyle Idleman

I added this book because I was going through a season where I was allowing some pretty good and Christian things to become idols in my life.  Like going to church each week, serving at church, people, etc. I struggled with seeing these things as idols until I realized that anything that is taking God’s place in my life is an idol.  So I am keeping this one.

 

10. Women Don’t Ask: Negotiation and the Gender Divide by Linda Babcock

There are certain topics that to understand them truly, we need to read the most up to date information.  So while this is still a significant issue in today’s workforce, I would want to read a book a little more recent.  So I am going to remove this one.

 

11. The Career Code: Must-Know Rules for a Strategic, Stylish, and Self-Made Career by Hillary Kerr & Katherine Power

I love a good women’s empowerment and success story.  And I am so thankful that these women are willing to share what worked and didn’t work for them.  This book is apart of a series, and I would like to read them all.  So I am keeping this one.

 

12. Wild and Free: A Hope-Filled Anthem for the Woman Who Feels She is Both Too Much and Never Enough by Jess Connolly

I bounce between feeling like I am doing too much and that I’m not enough to do the things I want to do.  It’s a struggle, and I’ve realized that the more I don’t take care of my mental health, the more I struggle.  I own a copy of this book, and I look forward to reading it.  So I am keeping it.

13. How to Be Here: A Guide to Creating a Life Worth Living by Rob Bell

One verse that has made me realize that I deserve so much more in life is John 10:10b (CSB) “I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance.” This tells me that Jesus gives me an abundant life.  I should be living my life that way.  So because of that, I am keeping this book.

 

 

14. May Cause Miracles: A 40-Day Guidebook of Subtle Shifts for Radical Change and Unlimited Happiness by Gabrielle Bernstein

This is probably one of those books I need to read during my Year of Healthy while I am working on building better habits.  Anything that helps with unlimited happiness is something I need to look into.  I am keeping this one.

15. Adventures for Your Soul: 21 Ways to Transform Your Habits and Reach Your Full Potential by Shannon Kaiser

Another book I should look into reading this year.  I think I tried to listen to the audiobook version, and I prefer to have my self-improvement books in ebook or physical book form because I love taking notes and highlighting.  But I am keeping this one.

16. The Desire Map by Danielle LaPorte

I’m a little torn about this book.  A life planning tool sounds like something right up my ally.  But it seems like this book may be borderline mystic, and those types of books can some times conflict with my faith, and I prefer not to read them.  So I will keep this one and give it a try.  I can always mark it as DNF (did not finish).

 

17. Healthy Happy Sexy: Ayurveda Wisdom for Modern Women by Katie Silcox

The first thing I needed to do was google Ayurveda.  I needed to make sure this wasn’t anything that was going to go against my faith.  I was stumped at first because the first articles that pop up are WebMD, National Institutes of Health, and Johns Hopkins. But when I dig deeper, I see that it has its origins with Hindu gods and is based on holistic healing. I can get down with Holistic healing, but I’m not about to open the door for any other “gods” to have any access to my mind, body, and spirit.  So I will be removing this one.

18. Miracles Now: 108 Life-Changing Tools for Less Stress, More Flow, and Finding Your True Purpose by Gabrielle Bernstein

I stress and worry way too much to be as blessed as I am.  It’s definitely something I want to work on this year. I also like the fact that these are small tidbits of info and practices for someone with only a minute or two.  I am keeping this one.

 

19. 100 Ways to Love Your Husband: A Life-Long Journey of Learning to Love by Lisa Jacobson

Again…marriage=hard.   Any book that I can read that can help me be a better wife, help me understand my husband more, help me love him more, I am all for reading.  I am keeping this one.

 

20. The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay

I read the plot of this book, and my first thought was awww in such a sad way.  Have I ever shared how randomly emotional I am?  I cry very frequently when things get sad in a book, tv show, movie, or with a random thought.  And it’s usually boohoo crying.  It’s terrible but I chalk it up to feeling deeply.  I feel like this book will make me do just that.  So I am keeping it.

 

Final Count: Removing 5; Keeping 15

TBR Down to 4,663

Have you read any of these books?  Think I made a mistake removing one?  Leave me a comment below and let’s chat.

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases using the links included in this post.

Categories
Down The TBR Hole

Down the TBR Hole #115-140

Welcome to Down the TBR Hole #115-140!  What is Down the TBR Hole?  It is where I grab 20 books from my ridiculously long TBR list on Goodreads and decide if I am keeping or removing the books. Why the odd numbers for this one?  Because I had a series last time that added a bunch to my list. Want to see what I ended up doing with them?  Click here to go to the previous post.  As a reminder, here are the rules:

I am starting with 4,672 books this week on my To Read shelf on Goodreads.  Let’s get started.

 

1. Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult

I’ve heard about this author quite a bit, but I honestly didn’t realize that she was a fiction author.  But after reading what the book is about, I am keeping it on the list.

 

 

2. The Good House by Tananarive Due

Another author that I have heard about a lot, and I have always wanted to read one of her books.  This one is bordering on suspense, but the plot sounds really good.  I am keeping it.

 

 

3. Blindness by Jose Saramago

Not exactly sure where this book came from, but I am not a fan of epidemic or apocalyptic books, and this is one of those.  So I will be removing this one.

 

 

4. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins

A very popular book from 2015.  I think it has even been turned into a movie. My best friend said it was an okay read, but she has read better.  I’m going to give the book a chance, especially before I watch the movie.  I’m keeping this one.

 

5. Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly

Can I be honest? I typically don’t like reading books after I have seen the movie.  Which is why it is weird that I would have added this book.  I would probably have loved to have read this book back when I was a math geek.  Not so much now.  I did enjoy the movie, but I am going to be removing this one. (Tangent – I hate when they change the cover of the books to match the movie poster.  No offense to the amazing actresses that played these parts, but what about the original ladies who were on the cover? I’m showing that cover out of respect.)

 

6. Love Warrior by Glennon Doyle Melton

I follow Glennon on Instagram, and her activism is actually what made her interesting to me.  She seems to be carefree, and a different person than her book plots describe (this one in particular).  So I would love to see how she transitioned to this new person.  I am keeping this one.

 

7. Carry On, Warrior: Thoughts on Life Unarmed by Glennon Doyle Melton

Same author as above.  I thought about not keeping this book because it looks like it is based on her website, which is Momastery.com.  I’m not a mom, but it appears she speaks about more things than motherhood.  I am going to be keeping it for now.

 

8. Emma by Jane Austen

This is supposed to be one of the classics, and at one point in time, I thought that I needed to read all of the classics to be a “good” reader.  But since then, I’ve realized I only want to read what interests me.  And most likely, a book from the early 1800s will not interest me at all.  I am removing this one.

 

9. Nappily Ever After by Trisha R. Thomas

I’ve had this book on my list for a while now, and then I saw they made a movie.  I ended up watching the movie (I love Sanaa Lathan) and loved it.  I went through my own freedom pursuit that started with changing the color of my hair.  And man, it will change your perspective.  I am keeping this one.

 

10. Yellow Crocus by Laila Ibrahim

It could be because of recent current events, but I’m not that interested in reading about a black woman (a slave at that) having to take care of a white child.  I’m removing this one.

 

11. Invisible Man, Got the Whole World Watching: A Young Black Man’s Education by Mychal Denzel Smith

I added this book because I am interested in seeing what a man thinks about today’s climate for our black boys.  This book seems to cover the highest that we have had as a race with President Obama’s presidency and the lows to the multiple, senseless killing of unarmed black boys and men.  I am keeping this one.

 

12. Lady Elect by Nikita Lynnette Nichols

I don’t think I need to read about any church drama at the moment.  And I know this is against reader’s law, but the cover doesn’t pull me in at all! I am removing this one.

 

 

13. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

I am not a fan of historical books and think this is another one of those books that everyone talks about like it is a classic.  Or maybe it just has a massive following because I think is has a T.V. show or movie.  I am removing this one.

 

 

14. Written in My Own Heart’s Blood by Diana Gabaldon

Not sure how I randomly went from the 1st in the series to the 8th in the series.  But I removed the previous book, and I am removing this one as well.  But at least I can kind of guess which guy she choose in the first one based on this description.

 

 

15. Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay

The cover was one of the reasons I added this book to my list.  Also, her describing her love for pink was another.  I can’t wait to dive into this book because it seems like it will be full of wit about topics that only women would get the humor of.  I am keeping it.

 

 

16. Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter

This seems like it would make for an excellent episode for some of the shows that I have been watching on Netflix and Hulu.  I just sent it to my best friend to see if she has read it because it seems like her cup of tea.  She said she started it but didn’t finish it.  I’m going to give this one a chance also.  I am keeping it.

 

17. Cross Roads by William Paul Young

His book, The Shack, was terrific, so I wanted to check out his other books.  Reading about someone in business who is a little on the proud side is interesting to me as I can sometimes be this way and have to continually remind myself that it isn’t me, it is God, who deserves the glory.  I am keeping this one.

 

18. Brida by Paulo Coelho

For some reason, I had the Portugal version on my list, so I had to switch it to the English version.  I enjoyed Paulo Coelho’s book, The Alchemist and it is actually one of the triggers that made me start this blog (read about it here).  This book almost seems like the female version.  I am keeping this one.

 

 

19. Utopia by Thomas Moore

A book published in the 1500s.  I know me, and I know this one won’t work.  But it’s another one that is supposed to be a classic about the differences between a perfect world with true freedom and our current society and all its problems.  I am removing it.

 

20. Freeman by Leonard Pitts, Jr.

This is another book based in the 1800s.  The only way I can see this book (and others like it) coming back on my list is if I am explicitly studying the topic of slavery.  So, for now, I am removing it.

 

 

21. Nigger by Dick Gregory

I’m honestly not sure what to expect from this book because Dick Gregory’s life was so diverse with who he was.  But that will make this book all the more interesting.  I’ve been loving memoirs/autobiographies lately, so I am keeping this one.

 

 

22. The Bone Collector by Jeffery Deaver

This sounds like the type of book that I would enjoy, and I see that it is a series.  While writing this, there is a little memory of watching a movie of the same title with my dad.  I’m seeing Denzel Washington.  I looked it up, and sure enough, the movie was based on the book.  I am keeping it.

 

23. Pink Lips & Empty Hearts by Heather Lindsey

I follow Heather Lindsey (and her husband) on Instagram, and they are so inspirational.  I read their book Fighting Together and loved it.  It was a no brainer for me to add her other books to my list.  I’ve heard bits and pieces of her testimony, but it seems like this book gives the full testimony and how she overcame her struggles.  I am keeping this one.

 

24. Dusty Crowns: Dusting Yourself Off and Becoming the Woman God Called You To Be by Heather Lindsey

I know I sometimes struggle with not feeling good enough and working hard to earn God’s love.  This book seems like it would be a reminder that I already have God’s love.  I am keeping this one.

 

25. Silent Seasons: Trusting God When You Don’t Understand by Heather Lindsey

I haven’t had a silent season personally (not that I am aware of), but I have been fascinated recently with the idea of one.  It just seems like, during that time, God is preparing you.  And prepare has been an interesting feeling for me lately.  Also, “when you don’t understand”…is consistently me.  Which is why I am keeping this book.

 

26. The Purpose Room: A Meeting Place Where You Discover, Birth and Accomplish Your God-Given Purpose by Heather Lindsey

I loved how she said she knew her purpose, and she just needed to figure out how she was going to get there doing what she was currently doing (sitting in a cubicle).  Most purpose books are about finding your purpose, and I don’t need that at the moment.  But I am keeping this one since it seems to come from a different approach.

 

Final Count: Removing 9; Keeping 17

TBR Down to 4,663

Have you read any of these books?  Think I made a mistake removing one?  Leave me a comment below and let’s chat.

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases using the links included in this post.

Categories
Down The TBR Hole

Down The TBR Hole #81-100…or more like 114

Welcome to Down the TBR Hole #81-100!  What is Down the TBR Hole?  It is where I grab 20 books from my ridiculously long TBR list on Goodreads and decide if I am keeping or removing the books.  Want to catch up?  Click here to go to the last post.  As a reminder, here are the rules:

I am starting with 4,670 books this week on my To Read shelf on Goodreads.  Let’s get started.

1. The Fire Starter Sessions: A Soulful + Practical Guide to Creating Success on Your Own Terms by Danielle LaPorte

I’ve only heard of Danielle LaPorte’s book The Desire Map, so I am not sure how this book came on my radar.  But after reading some of her points, she sounds like someone I want to know more about.  And this book is something I want to read about.  I am keeping it.

 

2. The Bourne Identity (Jason Bourne, #1) by Robert Ludlum

When I found out that the movies were based on a book, I wanted to read them.  To be honest, I don’t remember reading too many action & adventure books, so this will be a new genre for me.  But I am willing to give it a chance.  I am keeping it.

 

 

3. The Bourne Series (Jason Bourne, #2 – 15) by Robert Ludlum

And here is the rest of the series.  Yes, I have every book on my TBR list. Which isn’t necessary.  I’m going to read the first book and then decide if I want to add the rest to my list.  So for now, I am removing these from my list.

 

4. The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena

This book was recommended by my best friend.  I thought I had it downloaded on Audible, but I just checked, and I don’t.  Even though I don’t always enjoy my besties taste in books, this one sounded interesting.  I am keeping it.

 

5. A Mother’s Reckoning: Living in the Aftermath of Tragedy by Sue Klebold 

I think this book interested me because of the question of how could she have not known what was going on with her son.  My first thought was to remove it because I did immediately think about the fact that her family doesn’t deserve the profits from this book.  But I see a note that shows all the author profits are donated to organizations focused on mental health.  So I am keeping it.

 

6. The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead

Although I am not a fan of most historical fiction, I added this book because it has been making its way on multiple recommendation list. I’ve also heard good things about Colson Whitehead.  For now, I am keeping this one.

 

7. Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates

I’ve heard nothing but positive things about this book and the times that we are in now with the senseless killings of our black boys and the overall campaign to stamp out all things Black Excellence, I think it is more important now than ever to know and understand our history to learn how we can move forward and come together and fight against all of this hate.  I am keeping this one.  By the way, Oprah just announced her revamped Book Club and Ta-Nehisi Coates new book, The Water Dancer, is the current pick.  I’m thinking of downloading the audiobook and joining in the decisions.

 

8. A Brief History of Seven Killings by James Marlon 

I think I added this book after watching a documentary on Bob Marley.  And although this is a fictional account, it still sparked my interest.  I am keeping this one.

 

 

9. Lilith’s Brood by Octavia E. Butler

This seems like a fantasy book, and I don’t like fantasy at all.  I am removing this one.

 

 

10. The Turner House by Angela Flournoy

Not sure how this book ended up on my list, but it seems like an interesting read.  With me normally reading a lot of nonfiction and business books, sometimes I allow fiction books to be my break from my reality.  This being a story about multiple generations coming and going from one house and then having to decide the fate of the home will do just that.  I am keeping this one.

 

11. Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones

Another fiction book I can find myself getting lost in.  In this one, the story of two friends who end up being sisters due to their father’s deception.  I am keeping this one.

 

 

12. Fervent: A Woman’s Battle Plan to Serious Specific and Strategic Prayer by Priscilla Shirer

I struggle with prayer, and that is why I wanted to read this book.  I am pretty sure I started it but ended up distracted when I was working.  One day I will finish it, so I am keeping it.

 

13. White Witch, Black Curse by Kim Harrison

This is an example of me just adding books to my list without paying any attention.  I don’t do witches.  I don’t do witchcraft.  I don’t do curses.  And even before I started really living for Christ, I was the same way.  I just don’t do “magic.”  With that said, I am removing this book and throwing the blood of Jesus it’s way.

 

14. The Bad Cook by Esther Walker

I love to cook so the idea of someone trying out different recipes and not being all that great is funny to me.  Which is how I think the book is meant to be.  I’m keeping this one for the funny stories alone.

 

 

15. The Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

I realized that I tend only to read books that are based in the U.S.  I recently have started to read other books that are based in other countries.  Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is another author that I have heard great things about so I am keeping this one.

 

16. One Night by Eric Jerome Dickey

I read a good amount of Eric Jerome Dickey books when I was in middle and high school (don’t judge me) and enjoyed them.  I added this book because I wanted to see if he still has the same appeal to me as an adult.  Since I still have that question, I am keeping this one.

 

17. Favor, the Road to Success: How to Receive Special Favor with God and People by Bob Buess

This appears to be an older book (published in 1920), and there have been so many books recently on this topic.  Plus it doesn’t appear to be a classic.  I’m not sure I need to read this one, so I am removing it.

 

18. The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl by Issa Rae

While I don’t believe I have had the pleasure of watching any of her shows yet, I have had Issa Rae on my radar for a while now.  I am actually starting to love memoirs lately and prefer to listen to them.  This will definitely be one of them.  I am keeping it.

 

 

19. Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

Again I don’t normally read historical books, but I have heard that this was an amazing book.  I am keeping it.

 

 

20. Queen Sugar by Natalie Baszile

I watched the first couple of shows of Queen Sugar before I took a break from watching TV.  But I decided to add the book that inspired the show to my list.  I still plan on reading it, so I am keeping it.

 

Final Count: Removing 17; Keeping 16

TBR Down to 4,653

Have you read any of these books?  Think I made a mistake removing one?  Leave me a comment below and let’s chat.

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases using the links included in this post.

Categories
Down The TBR Hole

Down the TBR Hole #21-40

Welcome to Down the TBR Hole #21-40.  Have you been feeling inspired to go through your list of books that you have to read?  Or have you maybe found some books that I mentioned to add to your list?  Need to catch up?  Head here to see the last post.  As a reminder, here are the rules:

I am starting this week with 4,678 books.  Not sure how I ended up with more books than I started with last time.  I’m sure this reading slump I am in is not helping.  But of course, there is never a shortage of books to add to my list.  I also skipped last week so let’s double up this week.  Let’s get started.

1. Business Boutique: A Woman’s Guide to Making Money Doing What She Loves by Christy Wright

In a past life, I was all into finance and financial planning and thought that would be my career.  I also owned my own business for a bit. I found Christy Wright by way of Dave Ramsey and started listening to her podcast. I started reading this book, but for whatever reason, I didn’t finish it.  But from what I remember, it was good. I own it on Audible, so I’m keeping it.

2. The Secrets You Keep by Kate White

My best friend recommended this book to me.  I think it took 15 years for me to realize that we no longer have the same taste in books.  She leans heavy into suspense and psychological thrillers while I am more into non-fiction books and romance.  But that doesn’t mean I won’t try and read one of her recommendations.  But I wasted an audible credit on this one. Thirty minutes in and I could go further. I’m removing this one.

3. Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges by Amy Cuddy

This book was recommended to me by an SVP that I admired at my old job.  She continuously kicked butt in a male-dominated world and specifically with a couple of challenging males that I had to work with daily that she had previous experience with.  I’m forever thankful that she took the time out to help mentor me. I started to read this book after she recommended it, but we were so busy my projects took over my life, and I had to put the book down. But I have a physical copy of this book plus the Audible version so I’ll be keeping it.

4. The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement by Eliyahu M. Goldratt 

This was the first book that we were to read as a team at my old job. Recommended by the same SVP from above.  The only problem was my team was crazy busy.  We kept having to move the meeting that we had to talk about the book.  I’m not even sure I had time to finish one chapter. I do remember that it had an interesting concept, and I also happen to own a physical copy and the Audible version.  I think I will be keeping this one.

5. The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg

This book has been on almost every recommendation list for businesses owners that I have come across.  So I downloaded it on Audible.  I feel like building habits is part of my theme for the year, so I am keeping this one.

 

6. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen R. Covey

Like the book above, I have yet to come across a list that didn’t have this book recommended. I think I downloaded this one on Audible at the same time as the last one.  But it’s another one I haven’t had a chance to listen to. It’s a book on habits and fits my theme, so I’m keeping it.

7. God, Are You There? by Kay Arthur

I discovered Kay Arthur last year through Right Now Media and the inductive Bible study method. I instantly fell in love with her style and how her message of just using the Bible to interpret the Bible was so clear. I went on a hunt and ordered a few of her books (as you can tell).  I did read one of them and enjoyed it so I will be keeping this one.

 

8. Lord, Teach Me to Study the Bible in 28 Days by Kay Arthur

While I think I understand already what she will teach in this book because of watching her studies, I am keeping this book since I have a physical copy of it.  I also think it will be a quick read.

 

9. Discover the Bible for Yourself: Helpful Introductions to Every Book, Practical Approaches for Study, Applications for Everyday Life by Kay Arthur

You guessed it; I’m keeping this one.

 

10. Don’t Settle for Safe: Embracing the Uncomfortable to Become Unstoppable by Sarah Jakes Roberts 

First and foremost, I stan for Sarah Jakes Roberts.  If people can stan for musicians and actors, I can stan for a pastor.  What I love about her is she keeps it honest.  She made mistakes, and she had to work through them.  I’ve read another book of hers and probably every sermon she has preached.  Plus I’ve had the pleasure of seeing her teach in person.  I’m keeping this one.

11. Brave Enough to Succeed: 40 Strategies for Getting Unstuck by Valorie Burton

My previous business mentor recommended this book to me.  I’ve never connected with Burton based on what she posts on social media, but I was willing to give this book a chance.  I wonder, would this help me with my reading slump?  I’m feeling kind of stuck.  I’m keeping it.

 

12. Simplify: Ten Practices to Unclutter Your Soul by Bill Hybels

This was the second book that was recommended by my business mentor.  I was a Professional Organizer, so a book about organizing your soul? I’m all for it.  I’m keeping this one.

 

13. Battlefield of the Mind Bible: Renew Your Mind Through the Power of God’s Word by Joyce Meyer

I started to read her book by the same title and knew I wanted to get the Bible as well.  But I have the Bible and was using it when reading the book.  I don’t think it belongs on this list anymore.  I’m going to be removing it and putting it on my read list

 

14. Hebrews Bible Study Book: The Nearness of King Jesus by Lisa Harper

This is a bible study that I started but never finished.  Honestly, the turnoff was I had to either rent the videos or pay a large sum to own the videos.  For some reason, Lifeway has the video studies priced so high that I can’t always justify the cost. It was a good study, and I love Lisa Harper, especially after hearing her in person.  I’m keeping this one with the hopes of one day being able to complete it.

15. Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Home: No-Nonsense Advice that Will Inspire You to Clean Like the Dickens by Thelma Meyer

I went through a phase where I was trying to do a better job at setting the atmosphere of my home. I already loved having a clean house, so I was open to see if there were alternative ways to doing things.  So I felt like I was buying all the cleaning books.  I’m removing it, but it will make some cute decor.

 

16. Clean My Space: The Secret to Cleaning Better, Faster, and Loving Your Home Every Day by Melissa Maker

Another book from my home cleaning phase.  I’m removing it from my list but will keep it for decor.

 

17. How to Start a Home-based Professional Organizing Business by Dawn Noble

I might have mentioned a time or two that I previously had a Professional Organizing business. So although I bought this book while doing my research, I found so much info online that I didn’t need it.  I’m removing it.

 

18. Stronger than the Struggle: Uncomplicating Your Spiritual Battle by Havilah Cunnington

I bought the study for this book after hearing Havilah speak.  I enjoyed the study and wanted to read the book behind it, so I purchased it.  I enjoy listening to her preach, and I expect the same from her books.  I’ll be keeping it.

 

19. Anonymous: Jesus Hidden Years…And Yours by Alicia Britt Chole

A friend recommended this book to me after they enjoyed it.  I haven’t had a chance to start reading it yet, but I do like the concept. I have a physical copy of this book, and I am keeping it.

 

20. Everyday Hope: Holding Fast to His Promise by Katie Orr

Now that I have done a study with Katie (Philippians study), I want to do all of her studies.  She is an amazing Bible teacher.  You will see next week that I have a few of her studies.  I’m keeping this one.

 

Final count: Removing 5; Keeping 15; TBR down to 4,674

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases using the links included in this post.

Categories
Book Review Faith Book Review Family Book Review

Mini Book Review: The Printed Letter Bookshop by Katherine Reay

Title: The Printed Letter Bookshop 

Author: Katherine Reay

Genre: Christian Fiction/Romance

Publisher: Thomas Nelson, Inc.

Rating: Related imageRelated imageRelated image

The Printed Letter Bookshop was a cute story about hard times, friendships, and what a bookshop means to the community.  Madeline doesn’t grow up with her aunt outside of a few visits here and there thanks to a family riff, but she has pretty fond memories of the bookshop.  She is completely taken by surprise when she finds out that the aunt who she shares her name with left her the bookshop and her house after passing away.  Madeline has to battle her conscience of why she didn’t visit her aunt when she was sick all thanks to a childhood belief that she later found out was misrepresented.  Needing a change in her life after being passed over for partner at her law firm for her ex-boyfriend, she decides to move into her aunt’s house and give running the bookshop a chance…to get it primed to sell.

Janet and Claire are employees at the Bookshop for Madeline’s aunt and were close friends while she was sick.  Janet is a bitter woman who has cheated and gone through a divorce and is now suffering the consequences of her choices.  It’s everyone’s fault but her own.  Claire is a previous stay at home mom, who is just looking for a little escape.  But at the expensive of her relationships at home, she is struggling to hold on to her identity while raising teenagers who want nothing to do with her.  Both Janet and Claire are trying to do their best to show Madeline that even though the Bookshop is failing, it can be turned around and saved.

Throw in a potential love story with a gardener who has his own career shift and Madeline is the queen of projecting her issues with where she should be in life and failures onto him, blocking her blessings.  I felt like most of the book didn’t have a point outside of giving extended background information.  75% of the book was laying the foundation for the climax of the story that was easy to predict.  It was nice how friendship pulled the ladies together, and everyone had the chance to learn their lessons. I’m giving this quick, cute story about a bookshop 3-stars.

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases using the links included in this post.

Categories
Book Review Family Book Review

Mini Book Review: With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo

Title: With the Fire on High 

Author: Elizabeth Acevedo

Genre: Young Adult

Publisher: HarperTeen

Rating:Related imageRelated imageRelated imageRelated imageRelated image

Two things before we start.  I, 99% of the time, do not read Young Adult (YA) books, and I, 99% of the time, do not read books that everyone is going crazy over.  I am happy I took a chance on this book because it was worth it.  With the Fire on High tells the story of Emoni, a Philly teenage mom, who is trying to navigate high school while dealing with issues most teenagers don’t have to focus on.  She was able to embrace her culture, handle the tough life she has been given, and owns her decisions, and it was refreshing.  You can’t help but cheer for her every step of the way.

Emoni is strong in her identity and passionate about cooking, which was one way I was able to connect with her.  Her love for her Abuela is evident, and she fights to give Babygirl what she didn’t have growing up.  Small references in the book reminded me of living and visiting family up north.  I caught and understood some of the Philly references thanks to my 15 plus year friendship with the bestie who was born, raised and currently lives there. Acevedo throwing in a reference to Mancala tugged at my heartstrings a bit as that game was part of my childhood and I now have one in my living room.  Overall, this book was a quick read because I couldn’t put it down.  I gave it 5-stars because I was able to connect and feel for Emoni in a way that makes you forget she is a fictional character and not the sister/cousin/friend that she could so easily be.  By the way, I only cried once, which is significant for me since I’m such a wuss.  Now, who wants to come over and cook the recipes that are the book with me?

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases using the links included in this post.