March Books

16 Where Secrets Lie by Colleen Coble, Rick Acker    3/9    (kindle/library)

    52 Bookclub 5. Featuring A Conspiracy

The 2nd book in the Tupelo Grove series. I had a bit of trouble remembering what are probably some key plot points from book one since I read it a couple years ago. But once I got fully invested in this one I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. I'm looking forward to reading the third one as soon as it becomes available to me- hopefully before the author zoom call on the 31st. 😂

“Then focus on that and let God worry about tomorrow. And try not to worry. It solves nothing, and it disrupts our trust and faith. I know it’s easier said than done, and I’m far from perfect at it myself.”

I know God still has a purpose and a plan. The war isn’t over as long as we’re still breathing.

17 The English Masterpiece by Katherine Reay    3/13    (audio/hoopla)

    52 Bookclub 25. Includes A Red Herring

This was the February selection for the Christian Fiction Reading Challenge.  Sadly I did not get it read in time for the author zoom at the end of February but thoroughly enjoyed the recording when I finished the book.  I listened on audio and it was fantastic!

Set in the art world in the 1970's on the heels of Pablo Picasso's death. One of his paintings on exhibit is announced to be a fraud. Scandal ensues as a frantic race to discover the truth unfolds. A layered story of identity and truth. I am determined to become a Katherine Reay completest.

18 Pearl in the Sand by Tessa Afshar    3/18    (print/own)

    52 Bookclub 7. Title Starts With The Letter "P"

Alive Book club pick for this month. It blew me away. Once I got into it, I devoured it. A Biblical fiction account of Rahab's life.  The story woven was realistic, touching, healing. Reminding me of truths God is whispering to my heart as well. God is good that way. I turned the last page with satisfaction yet longing for it to not be over! 

Then it dawned on Joshua that God was not on Israel’s side; rather, He beckoned Israel to be on His side. Joshua couldn’t claim God for himself or for his own interests the way the people of Canaan used their idols. The Lord had claimed Israel as His own possession. It was up to Israel to align itself with God’s will.

19 Emma M Lion V 6 by Beth Bower    3/24    (kindle/kindle unlimited)

    52 Bookclub 14. Includes a character list

These books are so delightful, I enjoy them more and more. I am enjoying getting to know the characters deeper and also seeing their relationship grow and change.

No house, however modest, should be without something like a library. A house without books is a house without a soul.’

Oh, how words love Hawkes. They wrap around the unexpected inflections of his voice, eager, offering their best cadence and lilt and soul. They know him well, and he them. Almost as if words are the one thing in his life he has never had to push away. He speaks words the way they pound in my chest. And it feels like a miracle, finding such a dear part of oneself walking around in someone else’s body.

The idea that one could live in a world where a friend would invite you to go read in another’s library feels more dream than reality. It bodes well for my life’s prospects.

20 The Berlin Letters by Katherine Reay    3/25    (print/own)

Cousin Bookclub pick for this month, and coincidently my 2nd Katherine Reay book this month. I loved this one too! I have never read anything about or around the Cold War. Very interesting perspectives. I never realized how quickly the wall went up. I very much enjoyed my bookish chat with Laura and Jenn.

It’s funny how easily you can convince yourself that the people you live with see the world like you do.

 

21 The Urgency of Slowing Down by Laura L. Smith    3/31    (print/own)

I heard about this book on a podcast last year, some of the things the author said resonated with my soul.  Immediately put it on my birthday list, and received it. After letting it languish on my shelf for nearly a year I finally picked it up. I read it all month long during my devotional time and greatly enjoyed it.

By making them things we do for Jesus, for His Kingdom.  By being grateful for the people and tasks God has put in front of us.  It's all about out mindset.

Going outside and reconnecting to God's creation, reminding yourself of who He is and what He is capable of, can be a consistent, recalibrating rhythm in our lives.

You may not know it yet, but a Magic Spot awaits you.  One where you exhale. One where you lay your worries at Jesus's feet. One where you gain clarity on a big or peace around that thing you're stressed about.  One where your busy body and brain can rest.

Total: 6    2026: 21

Kindle/Ebook: 2    Print: 3     Audio: 1

Library: 2    Owned: 3  Kindle Unlimited: 1   

Favorite: I'm hard pressed to pick a favorite this month.  They were all so good!

Challenges:

1000 Books: 0 but purchased a few on my birthday... stay tuned.

52 Bookclub: 4

What was the best book you have read lately?

Baby Shower!

 Saturday was our baby shower for Mikayla and Dylan. It was spectacular! 💖  I am so thankful for everyone who helped out to pull off this amazing event for our girl.

I love this couple so much and can't wait to watch them become PARENTS!

Mikayla gave her siblings these Uncle and Auntie Tees

I finished Princess Sparkles quilt on Thursday morning. I could not wait to give it to Mikayla at the shower! 💖

I used the same quilt pattern I made for her when I was expecting her- 27 years ago.

One of our local libraries had a Pooh tote bag for sale so I purchased it for the gift bag.

Also had these made for Dylan and Baby. 😊

It was such a delightful day. My heart overflowing with thankfulness and joy. I can not wait to meet this sweet new baby girl. I can't wait to read all the books with her and teach her to bake all the things and go on so many grand adventures. 💖