Dune (Dune, #1) by Frank Herbert, Scott Brick, et al - A Review

This one was interesting, but definitely not something I could just breeze through. I picked it up three times before completing it.  The world building is huge, and you can tell how much detail went into it. Once I settled into it, I could really appreciate how immersive it is, but it also takes some patience.

I liked the political tension and how layered everything feels. There’s a lot going on under the surface with power, survival, and control, and that part kept me engaged. Paul’s journey is compelling, but I didn’t always feel super connected to him emotionally, which made parts of the story feel a little distant.

The pacing can be slow, and there’s a lot of information thrown at you, especially in the beginning. I found myself having to stop and process things more than I usually like to when reading for fun. It’s more of a think about it kind of book than a get lost in it kind of book.

Overall, I can see why it’s such a classic. It’s rich, detailed, and clearly influential, even if it wasn’t an easy read for me. I’m glad I read it, but it took some effort to get through.

★★★½

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The Last Time We Drowned by Saratoga Schaefer - A Review

This one ended up being a really fun read for me. The first half is definitely slow, and I honestly was not sure it was going to win me over. There is a lot of setup, influencer drama, and lots of repetition, and I really do think tighter editing would have made this an even higher rating for me.

But once it picks up, it really picks up.

The trapped on a yacht during a hurricane setting was such a strong backdrop. It brought all the tension, secrets, and messy friendships right to the surface. I loved the eerie atmosphere, that closed in claustrophobic feeling, and how the second half leans fully into a darker, more intense thriller. That shift is what made this book for me.

Charlie is not always the easiest to connect with, and honestly most of the characters are a mess, but it works here. Everyone feels a little suspicious, everything feels slightly off, and it keeps you guessing. It is very much one of those stories where the tension builds between the characters just as much as the situation itself.

If you like locked room thrillers, rich people drama, toxic friendships, and a slightly creepy edge, this is one to throw in your beach bag. I am really glad I stuck with it, because the second half turns it into a total binge.

★★★★

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Return to the Shack by Wm. Paul Young - A Review

I was a little hesitant because The Shack left such an impact and the bar high for me. And I will say, I still prefer the original it just hit differently on an emotional level. But this book had a quiet, deep way.

It was like reading a story and more like sitting down for a real conversation about faith. The kind where you pause, think, maybe even feel a little challenged, but also comforted at the same time. It does not try to recreate the same experience as the first book, and I actually appreciated that. It leans more into unpacking ideas like forgiveness, identity, and how we see God and ourselves.

There were a few moments that honestly pulled me in and made me stop and reflect. Not in an overwhelming way, but in a gentle nudge kind of way. It is one of those reads that does not rush you, it just sits with you.

If you are open to something more thoughtful and reflective, it really does have something meaningful to offer. It felt steady, honest, and encouraging without trying too hard.

Return to the Shack definitely added something valuable to the initial storyline. 

★★★★

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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The Liar's Wife by Kiersten Modglin - A Review

This one starts off with that uneasy feeling right away like something is off in the marriage, but you’re not totally sure what yet, and that tension is what pulled me through most of the book.

I liked how fast everything moved. Short chapters, a lot of little reveals, and just enough questions to keep me turning the pages. The story leans a lot on secrets in the relationship and that constant back and forth of who’s telling the truth, which made it really bingeable.

There are quite a few twists, and while some of them were fun, a few felt a little over the top for me. It almost felt like every time things started to settle, something new would get thrown in just to shake things up again. It kept it interesting, but it also made it a little harder to fully believe everything.

The characters were interesting in the sense that I wanted to figure them out, but I didn’t feel super connected to them. It was more curiosity than emotional investment, like I wanted answers more than I cared about anyone.

I think it’s a good pick if you want something quick, twisty, and easy to fly through. It just didn’t leave a lasting impact for me.

★★★

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Point of Retreat (Slammed, #2) by Colleen Hoover - A Review

This one just didn’t work for me the way I hoped it would. I liked Slammed, but this felt like a step back. A lot of the conflict felt more drawn out than it needed to be, and instead of pulling me in, it started to wear on me.

I struggled with the characters more this time around. Some of their choices felt frustrating, and the emotional tension leaned more toward dramatic than meaningful for me. I kept wanting things to either move forward or dig a little deeper, but it sort of stayed stuck in the same loop.

There are still some sweet moments, and you can see what it’s trying to do with love, trust, and working through complicated feelings. But for me, it just didn’t hit as well as the first book.

Overall, it wasn’t a bad read, just not one I connected with. I finished it, but mostly out of curiosity rather than being fully invested.

★★

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Quiet Joys of Farm Life

Here’s to simple joys, soft mornings, and the animals who make the farm feel like home. 

 

Please Don’t Go by E. Salvador - A Review

This was one I really wanted to love, and I can absolutely see why it works so well for a lot of readers, but for me it landed more in the middle.

The premise is incredibly emotional right from the start. It opens with Josie at her lowest point, literally standing on the edge, and Daniel stepping in with those three words that change everything. That initial setup is powerful and honestly one of the strongest parts of the book. It immediately pulls you into a story about grief, survival, and two people finding connection in the darkest moment. 

Throughout the story, it leans into themes of loss, mental health, and healing. Both Josie and Daniel are carrying heavy grief from losing close family members. The book does a good job showing how that pain lingers in different ways. Their relationship isn’t about “fixing” each other but about learning how to live with that pain and not feel so alone in it, which I thought was really meaningful.

This is definitely a quiet, emotional slow burn rather than a typical sports romance, and that felt very accurate. The emotional depth is there, but the pacing didn’t always work for me. 

I had mixed feelings about the character connection. I liked both Josie and Daniel individually, and I understood what the author was trying to do with their “two broken people finding each other” dynamic. But emotionally, I didn’t always feel as pulled in as I wanted to. Their growth is there, but at times it felt a little uneven or distant, like I was observing it more than experiencing it.

It is a heartfelt, emotional story with important themes and some really strong moments, especially at the beginning. It just didn’t come together for me in terms of pacing and emotional connection. Still, if you love slower, character-driven romances that focus on healing and heavy topics, this one will probably hit much harder for you.

★★

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Yours Truly (Part of Your World, #2) by Abby Jimenez - A Review

This one totally won me over. It’s warm, funny, and just has so much heart without trying too hard. Abby Jimenez really knows how to write characters you actually care about, and I was hooked pretty early on.

Jacob was easily my favorite. He’s a little awkward, super thoughtful, and just feels real in a way that stands out. His connection with Briana builds slowly, and I loved that it’s more about conversations and small moments than big dramatic stuff.

It’s also a really nice mix of light and emotional. It made me smile a lot, but it also hit on things like anxiety and trust in a way that felt honest without getting too heavy. Nothing felt rushed, and that made the payoff even better.

Overall, this is just one of those romances that feels good to read. Sweet, a little emotional, and super easy to get attached to.

★★★★★

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Forever, Papa Bear by Danielle Beerli - A Review

Forever, Papa Bear feels simple, yet the message about a father’s love staying with you as you grow is heartfelt and beautifully done.

It is warm and comforting the relationship between Papa Bear and Little Bear felt and a beautiful reminder that the smallest everyday moments are often the ones that stay with us the longest. The illustrations make it even more special, soft, cozy, and filled with little details.

It’s a story that brings your own memories to the surface and makes you think about the people who made you feel safe, seen, and loved. For a children’s book, it carries meaningful emotional depth without ever feeling heavy.

This would make a perfect bedtime read, a thoughtful Father’s Day gift, or simply a beautiful story to share with little ones again and again.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

★★★★★ 

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Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Shame-Free Plan for Embracing and Achieving Your Goals by Rachel Hollis - A Review

This one had some solid motivating moments, but overall it landed right in the middle for me. Rachel Hollis brings a really confident, high energy tone, and at times it does feel like the kind of pep talk you might need on the right day. I liked the reminders about not shrinking yourself, being honest about your goals, and taking ownership of your growth.

At the same time, it started to feel repetitive and a bit preachy. A lot of the advice is pretty general, and it leans heavily on personal success stories that don’t always translate into something practical or relatable. 

The whole push harder mindset also didn’t fully land for me, since it doesn’t leave much room for rest or different life situations.

Overall, it’s a decent pick if you’re looking for a quick confidence boost or a little motivation, but it didn’t stick with me long term. There are good ideas here, just not a lot of depth to really set it apart.

★★★

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5 Minutes with Every Book of the Bible: Old Testament - A Review

Release Date: October 6, 2026

This is such a meaningful and incredibly approachable 5 star read for me. I went into this hoping for something that would help break down the Old Testament in a simple, manageable way—and it absolutely delivered, and then some.

It makes Scripture feel accessible. Each section is short enough to fit into even the busiest day, but still rich enough to walk away with something to reflect on. It really helps you build a steady, consistent habit of spending time in the Word without feeling overwhelmed.

The short intros you usually find at the beginning of books in many Bibles are helpful, but having a resource like this that brings everything together in one concise, focused format makes it so much more useful and intentional. Each book includes quick facts, a timeline, an outline, key verses (which were my favorite), and clear life lessons. That combination gave me a better overall understanding while still keeping it simple and easy to follow.

The structure is another highlight. Moving through each book in small, digestible sections makes it easier to grasp the bigger picture without losing the details. It provides just enough context and insight to deepen understanding while still leaving room for personal reflection and connection.

I also really appreciated how versatile this is. Whether you’re new to the Old Testament or have read it many times, this works beautifully as a daily devotional, a study companion, or even a gentle way to get back into Scripture.

The tone throughout is warm, encouraging, and never overwhelming. It feels like an invitation rather than a lesson, which made me actually look forward to sitting down with it each day.

Overall, this is a thoughtfully designed, practical, and encouraging guide that makes spending time in the Old Testament feel both doable and meaningful. It’s one I will definitely come back to again. I am looking forward to the New Testament title. 

★★★★★

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.

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Abounding in Hope

 

Joy, peace, and hope don’t come from having everything figured out, but from trusting God and letting the Holy Spirit do the work in me. When I’m running low, this reminds me where true hope comes from.

Pumpkin Smash! by Michelle Schaub - A Review

Release Date: July 31, 2026

I loved the concept right away—taking leftover Halloween pumpkins and turning them into a hands-on lesson about composting and caring for the environment. As a gardener, this really clicked with me and made the subject matter even more enjoyable. It’s creative, approachable, and makes sustainability feel exciting and doable for kids instead of something overly instructional.

The rhyming text is lively and playful, with a bouncy rhythm that makes it perfect for reading out loud. It has that natural Storytime appeal where kids can easily get pulled in, and I can definitely see this being a hit in classrooms and group reads.

That said, while the illustrations are bright and colorful, they are not as crisp and clear as I would have liked. At times, the slightly fuzzy, busy look made it harder to fully follow what was happening, especially for younger readers who depend on visuals to guide the story. The style has a lot of personality, but I kept wishing for a bit more clarity and simplicity in certain scenes.

This is a strong and meaningful picture book with a great message about reducing waste and thinking about where things go after we’re done with them. It’s fun, educational, and perfect for the season—I just think sharper illustrations would have taken it to the next level.

★★★★

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.

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Finding My Way: One Man’s Spiritual Quest For the Divine Presence by Marc A. Crowley - A Review

Release Date: June 9, 2026

This is one of those books you don’t rush through—you take it in a little at a time. The mix of poetry and reflection made it feel very honest and real, like you’re walking alongside the author as he tries to understand faith, loss, and what it means to feel connected to something bigger.

It’s about the search—figuring things out, questioning, and learning as you go. It felt grounded. The nature imagery and quiet, reflective moments—especially tied to travel and time spent out West—gave the whole book a calm, peaceful vibe. It’s the kind of read that makes you slow down a little and think about your own life while you’re reading it.

There’s a lot of heart here too. You can feel the vulnerability in writing, especially in the parts about forgiveness, relationships, and personal growth. It’s simple, but in a way that feels intentional and sincere.

This was a quiet, reflective, read recommended if you like spiritual or introspective books.

★★★★1/2

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.

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Follow the Money by Alaina Trivax - A Review

Release Date August 4, 2026

This was such a fun and genuinely helpful way to introduce financial literacy to kids, and it absolutely feels like a 5-star read to me.

I love how interactive it is, because it does not just talk about money in a broad way, it actually walks readers through real life concepts like earning, taxes, budgeting, saving, credit, and investing in a way that feels clear and manageable.

The workbook style format makes it really engaging, and I thought the activities were a great way to help kids connect the lessons to everyday life instead of just memorizing terms. I also really appreciated how much is covered here, including topics that a lot of adults wish they had learned earlier.

This would be such a useful resource for kids, homeschool families, classrooms, and even adults who want a simple starting point for understanding personal finance. I even found myself learning a few things along the way.

★★★★★

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.

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Shilo and the Not-So-Scary Girl Above His Bed by Kristin and Montell Jordan - A Review

Release Date: September 1, 2026

Shilo and the Not-So-Scary Girl Above His Bed by Kristin and Montell Jordan is such a sweet, playful picture book. I loved the fun twist on the monster-under-the-bed idea, and the bright illustrations make it even more charming. 

The rhyming makes it a fun read-aloud, and the gentle message about courage, faith, and facing fear comes through in a warm, kid-friendly way. This would be a really cute pick for families wanting a story with heart.

I received an advance review copy through NetGalley, and all opinions are my own.

★★★★★

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The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk - A Review

This book that sticks with you because of how much it helps you understand trauma differently. I liked how it connects the brain and body in a way that actually makes sense, without feeling overly clinical all the time.

There’s a lot of insight packed in here. The mix of research, real stories, and explanations really shows how trauma shows up in everyday life, and why healing isn’t just about changing your thoughts. Some parts really clicked for me and gave me a whole new perspective.

It can feel dense and a bit overwhelming in places. There’s a lot to take in, and it’s not something I could just sit and fly through without breaks. Definitely more of a slow, take your time kind of read. Take notes. Reread. 

I actually have both the Kindle and paperback versions in my library, and I like having both since it’s the kind of book I’ll probably come back to.

Overall, it’s powerful, eye opening, and worth the time, even if it’s not the easiest read.

★★★★☆

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Come, Follow Me Living as a Disciple of Jesus by Morehouse Publishing - A Review

It is difficult to give a full review since the ARC copy only included three of the devotionals, but even from this limited glimpse, the heart of the book is clear.

Come, Follow Me Living as a Disciple of Jesus keeps things refreshingly simple and grounded, focusing less on lofty ideas and more on how faith shows up in everyday life. It centers on Jesus’ invitation to follow Him not just in belief, but in the daily choices we make, which immediately drew me in.

The book is structured around short, Scripture based reflections paired with practical, actionable steps. Nothing feels overwhelming or performative. Instead, it leans into small, meaningful rhythms like prayer, hospitality, service, and showing up for others in tangible ways.

What stood out most is the tone. It is warm, welcoming, and full of grace, speaking equally to new believers and those who have been walking this path for years. The reflections acknowledge the doubts and struggles of the original disciples, which makes the call to follow Jesus feel honest and human rather than idealized. There is a consistent reminder that transformation flows from God’s love, not from pressure to strive.

It also feels very versatile. This could easily be used for personal quiet time, a small group study, a seasonal focus, or even as a meaningful gift. The keepsake style and invitational voice make it something you can return to without guilt, which makes consistent use feel more natural.

If you are looking for deep theological analysis, this is not that kind of book. But if you want encouragement, clarity, and a gentle nudge toward living your faith with intention, this devotional serves as a steady companion. It leaves you with a simple but powerful question that lingers after each reading: what does following Jesus look like for me today?

★★★★★

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Cooking with Fruit by Rose Miles - A Review

Release Date August 1, 2026

This bright and engaging book is a delightful blend of education and hands on creativity. Cooking with Fruit stands out immediately for its vibrant, colorful pages that draw readers in and make the learning experience feel fun and inviting from the very beginning.

Rose Miles does a wonderful job connecting simple, approachable recipes with educational themes, making this more than just a cookbook. Each recipe feels thoughtfully paired with learning opportunities, helping readers understand not only how to prepare the food, but also why it matters. It is especially effective for younger readers or families who want to bring learning into everyday activities in a natural, enjoyable way.

The recipes themselves are practical and easy to follow, making them accessible for beginners while still being interesting enough to hold attention. The focus on fruit adds a fresh, healthy element, and the variety keeps things from feeling repetitive. It is easy to imagine using this book in a homeschool setting, classroom, or even just for fun weekend cooking with kids.

What truly makes this book shine is the balance between education and enjoyment. It never feels overly instructional or dry. Instead, it encourages curiosity, creativity, and confidence in the kitchen while reinforcing useful knowledge.

Overall, Cooking with Fruit is a cheerful, well-designed resource that successfully blends learning and cooking into one enjoyable experience. It is a wonderful addition for anyone looking to make education more interactive and delicious.

★★★★★

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Austin Gardens 3

There’s something special about wandering the desert‑style trails around Austin—the cactus, the heat, and the lizards stretched out on the rocks like they belong there. It makes every walk feel a little different.

 

Love Does: Discover a Secretly Incredible Life in an Ordinary World by Bob Goff - A Review

This was a really easy, feel good read. Bob Goff comes across as genuinely kind and well intentioned, and his whole message about loving people boldly is hard not to like. The short chapters and story based style make it super approachable, and it feels more like listening to someone talk than reading something heavy.

That said, it does start to feel a bit repetitive. A lot of the stories circle back to the same idea about showing up, taking risks, and loving generously. It’s a good message, but I found myself wanting a little more depth instead of so many similar examples. Some stories were inspiring, but a few came off a little too polished or self focused, which pulled me out of it a bit.

Overall, it’s a light, encouraging read that works best when you just want something uplifting and simple. I probably wouldn’t reread it, but I can see it really resonating with people who want everyday reminders to lead with kindness.

★★★

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What Now? From Autopilot to a Life You Choose by Yaprak Sapanli Gorur - A Review

Release Date: June 16, 2026

This is one of those self-help books that is relatable right from the beginning. It taps into that feeling of going through the motions where everything looks fine on the outside, but you’re wondering what you actually want next.

I will say I am definitely guilty of the Rushing Drift for sure, and this book really made me recognize how easy it is to fall into that pattern without even realizing it.

The idea of living on autopilot really stood out to me and how easy it is to drift into routines, expectations, and habits without questioning them. The author explains this so well and shows how it doesn’t usually happen all at once, but through small choices over time that slowly pull you away from what you actually want.

The exercises are not just there for filler, they actually make you pause and reflect. Some help you figure out what really matters to you, others help you spot patterns in your life, and some gently encourage you to start making small changes. I really liked that they felt realistic and not overwhelming. It’s not about flipping your whole life upside down, but making small, intentional shifts that add up.

The tone is very supportive and encouraging, almost like someone sitting down with you and helping you think things through without judgment. It definitely feels like a book you go through slowly, maybe even with a notebook nearby so you can really engage with the prompts.

This title is especially good if you’re feeling a little stuck or like you’re just going through the motions and want to start making more intentional choices.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

★★★★★

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Soulful Sanctuaries Cultivating Sacred Spaces by Janaki Sandy Gaal - A Review

Release Date: September 15, 2026

I enjoyed this book and found it to be such a rich, thoughtful read. It’s not a quick or light book, it is very informative. It’s one you take your time with, reflect on, and maybe even come back to again. It blends gardening with mindfulness and spirituality in a way that feels very intentional and meaningful.

As a gardener, my absolute favorite part was the recipes. I loved the idea of using what you grow to create something beautiful and delicious. It added such a rewarding, hands on element and really inspired me to think about my own garden in a new way.

This book also came at the perfect time for me. I’ve mainly focused on vegetables, but I’ve been wanting to branch more into flowers. The rose sections especially are incredibly detailed. You can tell how much knowledge and research the author has, and if you’re even a little curious about roses, there is so much to learn here.

I also appreciated the deeper approach the book takes. It’s about more than just gardening, it’s about creating a space that feels peaceful and personal. While it is definitely a more immersive read, I found that to be part of its charm.

Overall, this was a beautifully written, informative, and inspiring book that I really appreciated. It made me want to slow down, spend more time in my garden, and explore new ways of growing.

Thank you to The Collective Book Studio and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

★★★★

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Full Circle at Stone Mountain

 From the Archives - 2010

My four oldest kids are in Atlanta this summer, and today the boys got to climb Stone Mountain. My grandparents lived there when I was growing up, and we visited often—our whole crew of cousins racing to the top like it was a competition. I knew that mountain by heart.

One of my favorite memories is from a church youth trip when we stopped there to climb. Such good times and great friends.

I’m so glad my kids get to experience it too, even if I’m not there with them. For more information of Stone Mountain visit here.

From Kitchen to Masterpiece: Her Meals Are Pure Magic

 

My beautiful and talented daughter creates the most extravagant meals for us, thoughtfully pairing delicious food with stunning tablescapes. She has such a gift for presentation that even a simple salad becomes something truly divine.