I read more books in 2015 than I think I ever have in one year. What a fun year of reading! There were a lot of adventures, a lot of tears, and lots of romance. 😉 Thank you to ALL the amazing authors who shared their stories with us. Your books have been a joy to me!
Before we step into 2016 I want to give one last shout out to some of my favorites from 2015. Here they are, in no particular order.
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The Curiosity Keeper by Sarah E. Ladd
As soon as I started this book, I knew I’d made a new friend. I settled into the story with a contented sigh and watched the pages fly by way too quickly. I always enjoy Regency books, but this one I won’t easily forget. Needless to say, I’ve discovered a new favorite author.
There were so many strengths to it, honestly, I don’t know where to begin. The various settings and landscapes, of course, were very colorful. They came alive in every scene, almost as if they were supporting characters to the story themselves. The plot was so intriguing – with well-written hints of suspense and mystery surrounding the missing gem. The story just kept building and surprising me along the way.
Read the rest of my review here…
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A Sparrow In Terezin by Kristy Cambron
I’ve been eagerly anticipating this novel ever since I finished the first book in the series. I could hardly imagine a story sweeping my emotions away more than The Butterfly and the Violin. Once again, I was surprised.
A Sparrow in Terezin is one of those books you read slowly, savoring every word. And let me warn you, you will lose all sense of time as you fall immersed into it.
Read the rest of my review here…
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The Wood’s Edge by Lori Benton
To say this story was incredible almost seems like an understatement. In fact, it’s hard to find the words at all to review a book that left me in such awe. From the earliest pages, I found myself speechless and glued to the journey unfolding before me. I’ve never read anything quite like this. The Wood’s Edge took storytelling to a whole new level for me. I can’t wait for the rest of this new series.
Readers aren’t just stepping into one character’s journey when they pick this book up. They’re stepping into a much larger world, sown together with remarkable detail and dialogue. There you’ll meet multiple characters and experience the story through their eyes. You’ll sweep over many years and stand witness to great love and great heartache too. The birth of faith in new believers was exceptionally touching. It’s an amazing story, let me tell you.
Read the rest of my review here…
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The Mistress of Tall Acre by Laura Frantz
Yet another beautiful story by Laura Frantz. You would think a wonderful book would be easy to review, but sometimes they prove to be the hardest for me. I find it hard to narrow down what I loved most about this story. How much time do you have? 
The Mistress of Tall Acre had everything in it I was hoping for and more. The historical setting was rich and colorful. I felt like I was walking the fields and halls of Tall Acre right alongside the characters. I shared in their surprises, their fears, and their affections for one another. This intriguing romance will sweep many readers off their feet.
Read the rest of my review here…
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The Thorn Bearer by Pepper D. Basham
This story quickly caught my eye and touched my heart in ways I had not expected. Its intriguing cover and the historical pull to learn more about the Lusitania drew me to the book in the beginning, but the real pulse of the story is what I will remember the most. It’s a breathtaking story of redemption and healing, a powerful expression of grace and forgiveness. It made me cry and it made me laugh – both more than once.
The characters are very real, very broken, and very relatable. None of them seemed one-dimensional. They each added depth and perspective to the plot as it grew. And I cared for them greatly. I especially enjoyed the relationship between Ashleigh and Sam. From the very start, I loved their friendship, their charming banter, and the way they complimented each other in both their strengths and their weaknesses. It all seemed so natural… and right… and romantic.
Read the rest of my review here…
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Not By Sight by Kate Breslin
It’s been a long time since a book kept me up late into the night – way past my bedtime – reading as fast as my blurry eyes would allow. I was so lost in this story I hardly noticed the pages – and the minutes – flying by. Not by Sight just kept getting better and better with each passing chapter.
There was everything entertaining in this story – mystery, romance, fascinating history, and strong ties of family and friends. With its striking cover and intricate plot, I had no regrets staying up late. It took me to places I did not see coming and kept me guessing up to the very end.
Read the rest of my review here…
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The Sound of Silver by Rachelle Rea
Usually Book 2 of a series features a new hero and heroine, but in the case of The Sound of Silver, readers find themselves still following Gwyn and Dirk. Sometimes I prefer moving on to a new story through fresh eyes, but I was thrilled to find their story was far from over. It picked up right where we left off and took my breath with it.
This was a beautiful and emotional read for me. It brought tears to my eyes and a smile to my heart with its sweet, romantic tale of faith and forgiveness.
Read the rest of my review here…
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A Noble Masquerade by Kristi Ann Hunter
Talk about a fun book! This author had me hooked by the first chapter. I loved the premise of this story – of letter-writing gone wrong. To this day I still enjoy sending letters through the mail, so I could totally relate to Miranda’s desire to pour out her heart on paper.
It’s been awhile since I’ve read a book that had me laughing out loud. This one did it on more than one occasion. I was pulled from one chapter into the next without hardly realizing it. The story was romantic, witty and charming all in one breath.
Read the rest of my review here…
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To Win Her Favor by Tamera Alexander
First, the beautiful cover grabbed my attention. Then the title, the author, the back blurb. I anticipated a great story and To Win Her Favor did not disappoint. It just kept getting better and better with each passing chapter. As I fell into step with the characters, I quickly fell in love with them too. Throw in horse racing and a marriage of convenience in the post-Civil War, southern setting and I was hooked.
I’ve read multiples stories involving a marriage of convenience before. Some I’ve liked and some I haven’t, honestly. This one was believable, unique, and full of heart, without the cliches. I loved following these two through the ups and downs of marriage. It gave a beautiful depiction of two people growing to love and learning how to live a life as one. The intimacies between husband and wife are there, but written with care and handled beautifully. Their relationship was honest and real and that endeared me to them even more.
Read the rest of my review here…
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The Tomb by Stephanie Landsem
When I sat down to begin this book, I had no idea I was opening a door to such a beautiful story of faith, love, and freedom in Christ. I was certainly familiar with the Biblical account of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, but this fictional twist on the tale just burst to life on the page before me. I was so blessed by it and I know many readers will be too.
While the story mostly follows Martha, we also get to follow in the steps of many Biblical characters we’re familiar with. As I read, I felt like I was walking alongside them. There were so many unique scenes and emotional moments that touched my heart and brought tears to my eyes. The history felt richly researched, without overwhelming or confusing its reader. And the style and choice of words throughout the book – so delicate, yet so powerful – confirmed to me early on that this is an author I will be reading much more of.
Read the rest of my review here…
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WAIT! I can’t help it. I couldn’t narrow it down to just 10. 😉 This book below refuses to be ignored. This one certainly is on my favorite list of 2015, no doubt….
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The Girl From The Train by Irma Joubert
Wow. I’ll say it again. Wow. I was not prepared for this book. The premise and the cover intrigued me, but I had no idea the journey I would be taking. I don’t exaggerate when I say it took my breath away. I know you’ve heard the phrase “I could hardly put it down”. Well, here it comes again. I read this entire book in 2 days.
Hold on to your seat, friends! This heartfelt coming-of-age story sweeps through several years and settings. The journey is long, but worth it. My heart was instantly charmed by the brave, young Gretl, just like Jakob. Following her through the fields of Poland in 1944 to the orphanage in Germany, then on to South Africa in 1956, proved to be an incredible story. I think it’s impossible to finish this book without feeling like you’ve gained a friend or two. Both Gretl and Jakob were such vivid people on the page.
Read the rest of my review here…
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I want to thank all the authors and publishers for sending me these copies to read. I also want to thank YOU for stopping by and reading my reviews. Happy New Year!!
What was one of your favorite reads of the year?
I’d love to know if any of these from above made your top 2015 list.
If not, please tell me which great ones I missed. 😉
GREAT list!!! There were so many wonderful books out in 2015 – and it looks like 2016 is shaping up to be a marvelous year as well!
Thanks, Carrie! 😉 I know, I’m SO excited for what’s coming next year. You’ve had several great lists yourself. 😉 You can tell I love my historical fiction, huh? Happy New Year!
We have such similar book interests — I basically want to read ALL of your favorites!! I did read The Sound of Silver, but it was Book #1, The Sound of Diamonds that I put on my top 10 list — posted today!
I’m quite intrigued with the Lusitania and maritime disasters, which means I’ll be reading The Thorn Bearer as soon as I can get it!
Hi Tarissa! So happy you’re here. I LOVE meeting a new reading pal. Isn’t historical fiction the BEST?! 😉 Rachelle Rea’s books were soooo good. I’m so excited for the third!
Definitely read The Thorn Bearer when you get the chance. It’s a standout book and there’s a sequel coming this spring. 😉
I’m going to check out your blog now. Happy New Year!
Love this list, Savanna! Thanks so much for including A Sparrow in Terezin. Plus, you’ve reminded me of how many books I still want to add to my TBR pile (even though 2015 is nearly gone)… I also LOVED The Girl From the Train — I was blessed to get to endorse it. I couldn’t put that one down!
Hugs, my friend!
Hi sweet friend!! Thank you for taking the time to swing by. 🙂 I am SO excited to read your next book this year! That’s so cool you got to endorse The Girl From the Train. That was such a powerful story.
Happy New Year and hugs to you too. 😉
Great list! I’ve read seven of them and have all the others on my TBR list. Clearly we are twinning a bit as historical fiction is my favorite genre and appears to be yours too. 🙂 The Girl From the Train and The Wood’s Edge are also on my “Best of 2015” list. Happy New Year!
Hi Staci! Yeah, my love for historical fiction is kinda obvious, huh? 🙂 There were SO many good ones this year, it was hard to choose. Send me the link to your “Best of 2015” list sometime. I’d love to see what you picked! 🙂
I loved a Noble Masquerade! My favorite reads of the year were The Camdyn Series by Christina Coryell and Isle of Hope by Julie Lessman. I heard about Isle of Hope through The Engrafted Word and I’m so glad you shared it!
Hi Katy! Thanks for stopping by. The Noble Masquerade was such a fun story. I’m so glad you enjoyed Julie’s latest book too. That was such a special one for me. Love her too. 😉
I put together a top ten list that included several of the same books. It was a great year to be a reader! “Brentwood’s Ward”, “Battered Justice”, “The Wedding Chapel”, “The Art of Losing Yourself”, “The Seakeeper’s Daughters” and “Love’s Fortune” were some of my favorites. But I included “The Thorn Bearer” as a favorite debut.
That’s a GREAT list, Rebecca! The ones of yours I haven’t read are definitely on my list. 😉 I appreciate you stopping by.
What a great list! Thank you for sharing! Happy New Year!
Thanks, Melanie!! Happy New Year to you too! 🙂
Thank you so much for this list. It saves me so much research time when I find someone who shares my taste in reading. I loooove historical fiction written by Christian authors, that is all I read! The Bregdan Chronicals by Ginny Dye is an amazing read about the Civil War as well.
Hi Marlene! I know, it’s hard to beat Historical Christian fiction. 😉 So fun you stopped by. I’ll have to go look up the book you mentioned now and add it to my list. Thanks!
Savanna!! You are so sweet to include The Thorn Bearer in this list of amazing authors!! Thank you for being such a great encouragement!!
Many blessings for your writing in 2016
Hi Pepper! So glad you stopped by! Thank YOU for being such an encouragement to me and my writing this last year. Hope to see you in 2016! 🙂
Great list! As you know, I read a lot of these this year as well and it was a year of amazing storytelling. Your favorites were my favorites too! Must also add AD30 to the list. Loved it! Can’t wait to pick up my next book!
Yay!! I know, it was a fun year, wasn’t it? I’ll never forget A.D. 30. I can’t wait to read A.D. 33 and then pass it along to you too, Mama! 😉
Great list. . I have read some, and want to read the rest. Thanks for the reminder.
Becky
Wonderful! Thanks for joining us, Becky. Happy New Year!
I think there are only 2 in you list I don’t have..
I would add The War Room to your list 🙂
We have similar reading tastes then, Deanna. 🙂 How fun! I’ve heard a lot about The War Room. I need to check it out soon! Thanks for the suggestion.
To Win Her Favor and The Mistress of Tall Acre are my two favorite reads of 2015. They are also the only ones on your list that I have read!
Looks like we read a lot alike, Joan. 🙂 I hope you get to check out some of the others I mentioned here. Each of them are worth the read in my book. 😉