Fall Book Review

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I have a confession to make.

I had to take a slight reading break.

I read the first book on this list & then after that, I wasn't in the mood to read for like, two weeks-which is crazy for me because I've always got a book going.

But I guess my mind just needed a little break, and now that it's over I'm back to readying-yay!

I managed to read four "real" books since my last roundup in September and then one book that I'll elaborate on more in just a second-but they were all pretty good books, so let's chat about them.

The Forbidden by Beverly Lewis

This is another book focusing on a couple within the Amish sector, which Beverly Lewis is famous for.

I thoroughly enjoy these, especially this one since it followed a young couple who want to court each other but it's during a time where the Amish are beginning to split into a New Order versus the Old Order where things are not quite as traditional.

It was very interesting to me to learn about the New vs. Old Orders and I of course (like any chick) liked the romance aspect.

If you like sociology or just learning about different cultures or lifestyles than your own, I highly recommend reading some of Beverly's books!

Across the Blue by Carrie Turansky

I was able to get an early release copy of this book through a blogging program that I'm a part of, so it actually releases mid-February...but y'all, this is probably either my favorite or second favorite book on this entire list this time around-it was SO good.

The story follows a young Isabella Grayson who is the daughter of a successful newspaper owner as she discovers her passion for journalism & her passion for learning more about aviation.

It's got a little romance but a whole lot of sass in the main character, which I love.

She's headstrong & passionate which are two things I enjoy in a lead character.

I highly recommend you check this book when it becomes available-you can preorder it now for $15!

Betting on Hope by Debra Clopton

If you love a good Hallmark channel romance story, then this one is totally for you.

I loved the setting, the Four of Hearts Ranch in Texas and the main character is another fireball woman, Maggie Hope.

She is a journalist (I'm starting to see a pattern of the types of characters that I like to read about-haha!) who has an advice column.

She covers for a friend who is another journalist and ends up interviewing a cowboy named, Tru.

The story involves a bet, a rough childhood, a story of overcoming obstacles, and learning to ask others before you tell yourself they deserve better.

While some might say it's stereotypical, I think it's a good light read and after reading things like Girl on the Train like I did last time, I needed a few "feel good" stories under my belt.

Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander

If you've been following my blog, you've probably read about my trip to Nashville this past summer with my husband. And, as a huge history buff I had to squeeze in at least one historical outing while we were there-I chose to go to Franklin, TN to visit Carnton Plantation.

So, it seemed only fitting that I chose to read this book to get into the Christmas spirit.

This book is either my favorite or second favorite on this list (competing of course with, Across the Blue).

It's the story of young window Aletta Prescott, who loses her husband in the Civil War.

She's left alone with her young son & another child on the way.

In the beginning of the story she loses her factory job & finds employment at Carnton for the holiday season.

You can tell that the author has been to Carnton and done their research-since I had been there I could trace Aletta's footsteps through the house & property and really envision it in my head, it was wonderful!

Although there were some sad parts, overall I loved the Christmas spirit that it imparted upon me and would definitely recommend for you to pick up for the Christmas season.

How to Set a Table by Clarkson Potter Publishing

With the holiday season coming up, I couldn't help but pick up this little coffee table/reference guide for entertaining!

I've always loved formal occasions, what's not to love?

This book, while being beautifully bound in a linen-type cover and having beautiful photographs, doesn't skip on actual information.

It takes you through all kinds of settings; everything from setting a dining table all the way to serving breakfast in bed and all the places in between.

I love the fresh ideas that it brings.

I think this would be an especially good gift for a newly engaged or newly-wed couple, perfect to help them build their registries or be of great assistance for a first dinner party.

Let me know what you're reading below-I'm always looking for more inspiration!

Until next time. . .

xoxo,

Some of these books were provided by BookLookBloggers & Blogging for Books in exchange for honest reviews, but all opinions are my own and this post is not sponsored.