Favorite Books of 2019: Non-Fiction

It's been a great year for books! Click on any title to read my original review, or click on the cover if you're interested in purchasing it.

"A Cloud By Day, A Fire By Night" by A.W. Tozer
This book truly brought strength to me—it was a good word when I really needed one. It proceeded to make the rounds to several friends at church, all of whom said it could have been written for them as well. Highly recommended!

"Strong, Brave, Loved" by Holley Gerth
This 60-day devotional is about who God wants us to be as women: fierce yet vulnerable warriors for His kingdom. Tender toward Him, active in our faith. I thought it was quite excellent.

"When Life Doesn't Match Your Dreams" by Jill Eileen Smith
A noted Biblical fiction author takes a look at lessons we can learn from 12 different women in the Bible. There is some extrapolation because often we aren't told too many details about these women, but God's heart toward them—and toward us—remains the same.

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"Summer To Remember" by Tara Grace Ericson

One phone call changes everything for Danielle Washington. Just when she has reached the end of her hope, she learns that her estranged aunt in Indiana is in need of care—and also someone to run her bakery. As a skilled baker who just lost her job due to downsizing, Dani packs up her few belongings and flies to Indiana the very next day.

Nerdy teacher Mark Dawson is happy to make it to summer break. He loves life in his small town and thinks things can only get better when he meets Dani, the new girl in town who shares many of his same interests. His future becomes murky when he is accused of inappropriate physical contact with some of his female students.

This novel packs a big punch. It tackles issues like Mark's false accusation, Dani's mixed race heritage, and family problems—but it's also sweet, funny, and a nerd's delight. I enjoyed the small town setting and the spiritual themes as well. 

Warning: Do not read this book when you're hungry! All the bakery talk will have you reaching for your cookie jar.