Reading Recap: Quarter 4

Dec 31

I’ve wrapped up another year of reading and here is my fourth quarter report! I was able to read 42 books this October, November, and December—most of which were fiction. This brings my total books read for 2024 to 106! Stay tuned for my full 2024 recap, where I’ll share my top books of 2024 and my reading plans and goals for 2025.

I’ve tried to organize my reviews based on genre. Some notable new series and authors include the Witnesses of the Light series by D.J. Speckhals, The Green Ember series by S.D. Smith, The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Bower—see my full reviews under the “Fiction Series” heading! Also, be sure to scroll to the bottom for my Christmas books, which include fiction, nonfiction, and classics.

Have you read any of these books? If so, leave me a comment with your thoughts, or give me some suggestions for my reading list in 2025!

Art, Reading, and Education

How Should I Approach Art? By R.C. Sproul

This booklet contained some insightful comments on a Christian worldview of the arts. Still, I found myself disagreeing with several of the author’s conclusions. It was more of an explanation of his opinion, and the book wasn’t long enough to give a strong biblical or theological grounding to the opinions. I wish he would have spent that space sharing more about what the Bible says on the topic, as the title suggested would happen.

The Well-Educated Mind: A Guide to the Classical Education You Never Had

This book is extremely dense and thorough—written to help anyone self-educate in the classics. The author explains how to read (everything from speed reading to improving reading comprehension) and covers all genres of literature. I sensed a bias coming through some of her statements so I’d recommend reading this book alongside other similar works to get a balanced view, but overall it was very informative. I also don’t feel like everything she recommended was realistic (I mean, I’m not going to read a book multiple times to truly grasp the meaning unless I am doing intense research) I ended up skimming a lot towards the end but still was able to glean a lot. The book recommendations at the end of each chapter are helpful. I wish I could read them all!

Honey for a Child’s Heart: The Imaginative Use of Books in Family Life by Gladys M. Hunt

I really enjoyed this and will be looking to purchase my own copy someday! The beginning chapters covered the importance of reading and books in a child’s development and in family lifestyle, but the book lists at the end are the best part for sure. I still plan to vet some of the books recommended before reading them to my kiddos in the future, but this gives me a great place to start.

Consider This: Charlotte Mason and the Classical Tradition by Karen Glass

This book was fascinating! I originally had this on my reading list because I thought it was discussing how to blend of classical education and Charlotte Mason methods—which is a really unique concept. It turns out the book actually simply exploring how the roots of Charlotte Mason’s educational philosophy come from classical philosophers. It was still intriguing and interesting, even though the author is against modern versions of classical education. There were some things I agreed with and some that I disagreed with but overall, I feel like the author was very educated on the subject and I learned a lot! This is a book I’d like to revisit in the future.

Fiction

Juniper Bean Resorts to Murder by Gracie Ruth Mitchell

I saw others reading this book and thought the cover was pretty—so I finally read it. This was a cute little mystery. But the writing and storyline are nothing amazing, and Juniper and Aiden‘s relationship really annoyed me (too cheesy, too unrealistic). I decided not to continue with the series.

Song of Redemption by Lynn Austin

This is the second book in the Chronicles of the Kings series. A bit graphic at points—the Assyrians were truly horrific and that was not hidden. Despite the cruelty and violence mentioned, this is such a beautiful fictional story based on King Hezekiah’s reign. The characters dealt with heavy life issues and fears by learning to trust God and fully commit to Him in faith. Such a good, encouraging read.

A Presumptuous Hope by Jennie Goutet

This was an amazing conclusion to the “Daughters of the Gentry” series—and possibly my favorite novel by Goutet! The character development was wonderful. Goutet is a new author I’ve discovered this year and I recommend her for when you need a light, airy, and relaxing regency read.

Rose’s Pledge by Sally Laity and Dianna Crawford

I love these two authors together—they’ve also co-authored the Freedom’s Holy Light series, which are some of my favorite fiction books! This is the first book in the Harwood House series. It had several twists and turns and a sweet ending. I was hoping that the spiritual content would be a little deeper than it was, and the beginning felt rushed—but I enjoyed the story overall and am looking forward to reading more.

When Tides Turn by Sarah Sundin

This was a fun conclusion to the Waves of Freedom series, and the last published book by Sundin that I hadn’t read yet. The character arcs were believable and it was fun to follow the story, although the spy/mystery element didn’t seem as realistic as Sundin’s novels usually are. Overall, I enjoyed this!

Fiction Series

Witnesses of the Light series by D.K. Speckhals

Heretics of Piedmont

This is a gripping historical fiction that follows a banished monk in the fifteenth century in his efforts to regain standing in the Catholic Church by spying on the Waldenians. This novel encourages Christians today to hold fast the faithful word and challenges what it means to follow Christ. It’s also a time period that isn’t often written about in historical fiction.

The Lord of Luserna

This is the sequel to Heretics of Piedmont. This book gave insight into how the Scriptures could have traveled across Europe to become available to the common people, and the role that the Waldonese may have played, as well as the persecution they experienced. Though it is fiction, it’s based on historical figures and the notes at the end are fascinating! It’s also an interesting and engaging story—several plot twists and great character development throughout.I also love how the author begins each chapter with a quotation from his research. I’m really looking forward to reading the final book in this series when it is released in early 2025.

Alaska Air One Rescue by Susan May Warren

One Last Shot, One Last Chance, One Last Promise, One Last Stand

This series is different from what I usually read, but so glad that I took a chance on it! The books were adventurous without being too scary and mysterious without being creepy. The plots felt a little cheesy at times but I loved the character development and the characters seemed very realistic. The books were difficult to put down—I read this series quickly!

For Liberty and Conscience series by Jayna Baas

Preacher on the Run: A Novel of Early America

Patriot at the River: A Novel of the American Revolution

These indie novels were a fascinating and gripping story about an aspect of the Revolutionary war that I didn’t know much about! The depth of research and history are very obvious and make the plot seem very realistic. I gave Preacher on the Run three stars because I viewed the writing as somewhat amateur—something that drastically improved in the second book, Patriot at the River. I’m really glad that I went on to read the second book in this series! I also loved the clear message of the Gospel and redemption spread throughout—even teared up at the final scene in Patriot at the River. And it’s refreshing to read historical fiction with a healthy focus on family and friendships rather than being dominated by a romance.

The Green Ember series by S.D. Smith

The Green Ember, Ember Falls, Ember Rising, Ember’s End

I’ve had this series—written for middle grade students—on my reading list for many months. In the series, rabbits fight for survival against enemies like wolves, birds, and even other rabbits. After reading it, my first thought was that it feels like a classic; think The Wingfeather Saga meets Watership Down. All four books contain important themes of courage, sacrifice, and leadership. These big themes are packed with occasional humor and an intriguing storyline in each book. Perhaps my favorite aspect was the positive view of family relationships throughout the books: the siblings have close relationships and try to set positive examples for each other. The family members take care of each other, and show love and respect to their parents. At the same time, characters are not idealized; they struggle with attitudes and frustrations just like normal kids, but they work through it together. The series does get slightly darker and more dystopian in the third and fourth books, and although they are aimed at middle grade students, I feel like it could be too intense and scary for young readers. They were so wonderful for me to read as an adult and it was difficult to put the books down. I can’t wait until my kids are older to introduce them to this beautiful story!

The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower

Volumes 1-8

Each book in this series is published as a “Volume”. The series is written entirely through Emma’s eyes through her journal, which is a format I don’t usually love unless it’s done right. This series was amazing! Brower has artfully arranged the journal entries to reveal bits and pieces of the plot as time goes on and makes the mundane entertaining and lovable. The characters are idealized at times, but quirky and fun. As the series goes on, the story becomes deeper as it picks up on themes such as friendship, grief, and life. There are many unexpected twists, turns, and mysteries. As a disclaimer, I didn’t always agree with some of the decisions that Emma makes, and some characters make poor choices (such as drinking too much). I was so disappointed to finish volume 8 only to realize that volume 9 has not been published yet! I will be anxiously waiting. My friends who love the classics and appreciate poetry will enjoy this series.

Christian Nonfiction

God’s Smuggler by Brother Andrew

I’ve had this on my list to read for a while. The author founded the Open Door ministry and this is his story of how God called him into ministry and lead and sustained him. This book was also a gripping, firsthand account of what it is like be a Christian in closed countries, and the risks taken to provide these Christians with Bibles. I really appreciated the emphasis on prayer and faith! I think every Christian should read this.

Growing Together: Taking Mentoring Beyond Small Talk and Prayer Requests by Melissa B. Kruger

This would be a helpful tool if you are discipling a new believer, if you want something topical. The content is fairly basic for more knowledgeable or mature believers. The questions at the end are helpful; I do wish it had more discussion prompts. Overall, this may be a helpful tool but there are other discipleship resources I might reach for first.

Respectable Sins by Jerry Bridges

This book was so convicting to me. I’d like to go through it again with a group someday. The author works through sins that have become acceptable to Christians today; he maintains a humble tone while being bold to call out sin. I had a lot to think about after finishing this book and would recommend it for groups or solo reflection.

Every Woman a Theologian by Phylicia D. Masonheimer

What I liked: Phylicia is an excellent writer and can make big concepts simple and understandable. There is also a need for a book like this, summarizing different doctrinal/theological standpoints and explaining their place in church history and their applications to us today. I learned things! However… I just happen to disagree with a lot of Phylicia’s theology. I knew this going in, of course. I felt that the book seemed biased against a dispensational premillennial theology, no surprise since I understand Phylicia to embrace a classical Arminian worldview. I also disagree with some of her assessments in the practical application of the book; for example, saying that end times views are only “third tier” theological issues. What you believe about the end times has important implications in how you do ministry and the methods you use, so I’m not sure why this was diminished. While I appreciate her efforts on this book—and I think this type of book is needed!—I don’t think I can recommend it. When I think of the intended audience, I would prefer to recommend a resource that is more balanced, especially in dispensationalism.

Nonfiction

A Sane Women’s Guide to Raising a Large Family by Mary Ostyn

Even though I only have two kids, there was so much practical advice offered in this book! It was also short, clear, and easily organized to find the topics and sections that are relevant.

House Rules: How to Decorate for Every Home, Style, and Budget by Myquillyn Smith

I haven’t read many decorating books but this is is the best that I’ve read for sure! Instead of giving generic home decor rules that are based on passing trends, Smith presents her rules as a guide and template for you to personalize in your own home and environment. I learned a lot and this is a book I can see myself referencing in the future. Even though I read the ebook version, the pictures of her home were gorgeous and so fun to look at.

Christmas Reads

A Yorksire Carol by Jennie Goutet

This was a super cute Christmas regency romance. Goutet does a great job setting the holiday scene and bringing in fun Christmas traditions. The plot was deeper than I expected and didn’t seem cheesy at all. This is a book I’ll probably look to purchase so that I can revisit it in Christmases to come!

The Christmas Ruse by Jennie Goutet

This regency Christmas short story was cute and a little cheesy. I think it would have had much potential if it were a full novel, but as a novella it was too abrupt for me. Still, the writing was enjoyable and it was a creative story.

The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by Wren Madsen

I can see why this is a classic, but it didn’t flow well for me. Too disjointed! I also didn’t love how Marie and her family didn’t end with a strong trust (her family didn’t believe her, so she stops sharing with them). I want books intended for kids to have positive family themes so that was a disappointment. Of course, I love the little candy land that the nutcracker prince introduced and I love seeing most adaptations of this story (the negative elements I’ve mentioned don’t seem to appear in all the adaptations).

The Adventure of the Christmas Pudding by Agatha Christie

This Hercule Poirot story was a clever Christmas mystery, with just enough cozy holiday nostalgia mixed with intrigue and mystery, but not too creepy. It was short enough for me to read in an evening.

Where the Treetops Glisten: Three Stories of Heartwarming Courage and Christmas Romance During World War II by Tricia Goyer, Sarah Sundin, and Cara Truman

This is a charming collection of three Christmas novellas based in Lafayette, IN during World War 2. I’ve had this on my reading list purely because of Sarah Sundin’s contribution—I rated her story as 5 stars and the other two only as 3 stars. I did feel like the authors did a great job bringing consistency and unity to the three stories.

Evergreen by Susan May Warren

This book was hard to put down and really tugged at the heartstrings! I also didn’t expect to connect so much with two empty nesters. This book shows that through the hurts of life (miscarriage, loss of family pet, strained family relationships, etc) there is always hope. I didn’t realize that it was in the middle of a series, so now I’d love to continue reading to find out what happens to the rest of the family members.

The First Songs of Christmas by Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth

This advent devotional covers the songs in the Christmas story, from Mary’s song to the angels singing praises to the shepherds. Each day covers a line from the song in Scripture, a devotional thought, prayer, and additional Scripture reading. It was both encouraging and convicting; even though I was not consistent with daily reading this holiday season, I will be keeping this copy to read through next Christmas!