As I reflect on another year, I’m looking back at the books that have shaped my journey of faith and left a lasting impression. These stories, insights, and teachings have not only enriched my understanding of God’s truth but have also guided me in living with purpose and grace.
Here’s a collection of my favorites this year!
Contents
Best Books of 2024 (Part 1)
I'l invite you to visit this short list of what I loved in the first half of the year!
Best Books of 2024 (Part 2)
(Now, for the best of the second half!)
For Growing Deeper in God’s Word.
Here you'll find an engaging, practical guide to study the Bible. This will be great if you're looking to develop your bible study skills this year! (Read my full review)
For When the World’s Brokenness Feels Overwhelming
Facing a broken world each day with all it's pain and struggle, we're invited to lament in prayer before the One who holds all things in his hands. Practical and heartfelt, this was a balm for my weary heart. (Read my full review).
Though I have good intentions, old books don't come across my shelf as often as I'd like, but I'm grateful this one did. Written by a father grieving the loss of his children, this short book became a bestseller back in 1882. It’s tender, heartfelt, and a beautiful reminder of God’s presence even in the depths of suffering.
For the Anxious Mom (and Aren’t We All At Times?)
As mothers, we all face anxiety at times—some of us more deeply than others. With vulnerability and honesty, Lara shares her own journey through anxiety and gently points us to the hope found in the gospel. (Read my full review)
For Building Habits That Actually Stick
Ready to start something new?
Rooted in behavior theory, this book is packed with practical tips for building good habits—and breaking bad ones. It’s a resource I’ll likely buy and reread because it’s so rich with insights. I found myself eager to apply its advice in my own life, with my kids, and even with my clients. There’s truly a lot to take away here.
For Women Creeping Into (or Already in the Throes of) Midlife
Here’s a book I didn’t realize I needed! As I stepped into my 40s this year, it was both refreshing and reorienting. Gaining a deeper understanding of the nuances of this season of life has been invaluable as I seek to live faithfully for God’s glory. (Read my full review)
For Seeing God’s Hand in Life’s Hardest Goodbyes
This is a beautiful weaving of memoir and theology as the author recounts caring for and supporting her mom through her journey with cancer applying the truths of the gospel to the reality of the pain, suffering and grief she experiences. (Read my full review)
For An Escape into Compelling Narratives
Discovered this author from a writer friend and I'm so glad I did! I enjoyed the unique concept of this fantasy story, the contrast of light and darkness. There's danger, intrigue and conviction as Amyrah tries to find her way through the darkness, discovering her own light...and the creatures of the light.
Often YA is written from one perspective, but this one has multiple points of view, which I appreciate because it adds dimension to the plot. I didn't expect their to be a cliffhanger, but I'm real excited for the next book to come out!
Well, this was an interesting premise!
Guy meets girl. They get off way on the wrong foot, when she gets hired as the manager for their family resort. After spending time together through work and a dose of humble vulnerability, their summer shifts from dread to delight as they fall in love. But this happy ending gets put on hold when she falls from a ladder and loses her memory of the last 4 months and only remembers him as her disgruntled boss.
Obviously he's heartbroken and you really feel for the guy. He keeps hoping she'll get her memories back, but she hopes she never does. This creates a lot of tension to the story which really made it engaging. I also really loved the back and forth of the timeline. The author would interrupt the present day to weave in pieces of how their story unfolded, which was really well done.
You'll find themes of trusting God through heartache, forgiveness, and dreams of success. This is my first read by the author and I'll probably do some more back reading now!
MORE Book Lists & Book Awards
I’ll admit it—I find something really special about going through book lists.They provide a glimpse into how others are shaped and inspired by the books they read, and I always come away with fresh ideas for my own reading journey. So, I’m excited to share some book lists from writers and bloggers I follow, and I hope you find them just as enriching!
Kristen Wetherell (Author and pastor's wife)
Aaron Armstrong (Author)
Russell Moore (editor at Christianity Today)
Ishah Broad (writer)
Lianna Davis (writer)
Trevin Wax (Author)
The Beautiful Christian Life, 15 Key Christian Books for Your 2025 Reading List
Cindy Matson: 2nd half of the year, 1st half
Previous Years In Books
