The Best Books We Read in 2023

As we wrapped up 2023, our team compiled a list of our top reads from the year.

These books span genres and have made a lasting impact on us. From gripping adventures to insightful narratives, our favorites reflect the diverse tastes of our team. We hope you find a new book to try!

Would you like to read with us this year? Join us in our 2024 Global Reading Challenges (we marked the following books with some categories they could correspond with, but if you check the lists, there are likely more) and talk about what you’re reading in our RA Reads group on FB.

Let us know in the comments below what your favorite read of 2023 was!

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*links are to our Amazon Storefront and support our work!

Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians Series by Brandon Sanderson

This six-book saga not only delivered hours of entertainment but also sparked engaging discussions within our (Charlesa’s) family (dad, mom, 13g, 10b) during our commute to swim team commitments.

Follow the unexpected male hero paired with a witty female bodyguard as they confront the sinister evil librarians, unraveling a hidden truth that challenges everything. Perfect for readers of all ages, this series combines humor, adventure, and unexpected twists that kept our family hooked from start to finish. (Charlesa, Cambell)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book in a series, a book that models faithfulness, a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list

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As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales From The Making Of The Princess Bride by Cary Elwes with Joe Layden, Forward by Rob Reiner

Not many books are better as movies; similarly, not many books are better as audiobooks. This book about the making of the movie is 100% better as an audiobook as it’s narrated by the cast of the movie! It’s side-splittingly funny and, as long as your family is comfortable with discussions of alcohol consumption, good for all ages that have seen the movie! (Taleah)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book set primarily in Europe, a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list

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All Along You Were Blooming: thoughts for boundless living by Morgan Harper Nichols

This beautiful collection of short poems and deep thoughts in small bites is lusciously illustrated by a neurodiverse artist/poet that Ambre and Amanda both love and follow on Instagram. (Ambre)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book on a global topic, a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book with a journey

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Beneath the Swirling Sky by Carolyn Leiloglou

This captivating portal fantasy immerses you in the enchanting artwork of renowned artists. Join the main character and their supportive cousin as they dive into an incredible tale of rescuing a sibling while unraveling the mysteries of The Restorationists' world. This adventure is brimming with unexpected twists and turns, culminating in a profound realization of the transformative power found in one's creative abilities. (Charlesa)

Discover more about Carolyn's exploration and insights on the Stories from the Ashes podcast. Don't miss this delightful episode that adds depth to the magic within the pages of the book.

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book with a boat, a book with a blue cover, a Hopepunk story set in another country, a book in a series, a book with a character that serves as a guide, a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book with a blue cover

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The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare

“He trains my hands for war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.” 2 Samuel‬ ‭22‬:‭35‬

Set in the midst of Jesus’s days of ministry, The Bronze Bow is the story of a young Jew named Daniel who lives his life focused on avenging the death of his parents. The Bronze Bow is his story and the story of what happens when a life is touched by Jesus. (Amber)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book with mountains, a book set in Asia (the Middle East)

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The Balter of Ashton Harper by Millie Florence

Get ready for an exciting winter adventure! This magical story about singing and dancing siblings is our top pick for 2023. It's got just the right mix of suspense and unexpected moments that'll keep you hooked. Perfect for the whole family, it's a charming read that everyone will enjoy. (Ambre, Gemma, Charlesa)

Listen in on our conversation with Millie on Stories from the Ashes.

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book that models faithfulness, a book with a journey, a book with a rural setting, a book with a castle, a book by a small press or publisher

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***Bargain Bride by Evelyn Sibley Lampman

Set in frontier Oregon, Bargain Bride by Evelyn Sibley Lampman is a cozy, heartwarming read that shows us something of the tender patience that marks the best kind of marriage love. When young Ginny is passed from unkind foster parents to an older stranger to be his wife, she has high hopes and higher fears. But his sudden death leaves her the wealthy owner of a lucrative farm, and she finds herself with every advantage except maturity and experience. She will have to decide who to trust, who to help, and ultimately, who to love. (Kimberly, Amber, Jessica)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book that models faithfulness, a book with a journey, a book that highlights the challenges of being an outsider, a book with a blue cover, a book with a rural setting, a book by a small press or publisher, a book set primarily in North America

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Christy by Catherine Marshall

A book recommendation I (Sarah) got in RA, and I can see why! A young woman volunteers to go teach at a new school in the Appalachian Mountains in 1912 and learns a way of life drastically different from her own. In the process, she discovers more about herself, her faith, and love. (Sarah)

This is a book for older (16+) teens and adults. Please consult the complete Content Considerations on this book in our Literary Catalogue to see if it’s a good fit for your reader.

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book with a journey, a book with a rural setting, a book set primarily in North America, a book that models faithfulness

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Cicada Symphony by Sue Fliess

I (Ambre) remember a seven-year emergence of cicadas in Chicago in my childhood. Deep piles of exoskeletons, the deafening noise, being dive bombed all summer. It was a lot. This beautiful book is one I was so thrilled to share with my kids as it covers that event with beauty instead of horror and was a wonderful door-opener to telling my kids what they’ve been spared while still celebrating cicadas. (Ambre)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list

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City of Words Series by Steven J. Carroll

The gripping dystopian world crafted by Steven J. Carroll in the "City of Words" series ranked high on our reading lists. This intense trilogy had us eagerly turning the pages, immersed in a narrative where powerful friendships overcome challenges, forging ahead to bring a beacon of hope. The compelling themes of resilience and camaraderie thread through the entire series. (Ambre, Charlesa)

Author Steven J. Carroll had a thought-provoking conversation with us on Stories from the Ashes about City of Words.

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book that models faithfulness, a book with a journey, a Hopepunk story set primarily in another country, a book in a series, a book with a character that serves as a guide, a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list

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The Cost of Control: Why We Crave It, the Anxiety It Gives Us, and the Real Power God Promises by Sharon Hodde Miller

Readers are guided through an enlightening exploration of the areas we seek to control and the underlying reasons fueling this desire. Practical examples vividly illustrate these areas, while the inclusion of scripture and truths provides hope and comfort in the process of letting go, which is ultimately beyond our grasp.

For those seeking a transformative read that sparks meaningful conversations and fosters change, this book is a must. So, grab a warm drink, embark on the journey, and, as I did while reading, invite a friend or two to delve into this insightful book. (Charlesa)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a non-fiction book on a global topic, a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list

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***Crocodile on the Sandbank by Elizabeth Peters

Crocodile on the Sandbank is the first in the Amelia Peabody series by Elizabeth Peters (Barbara Metz). The origin story of the illustrious Victorian-era Egyptologist, this book made me LOL when I wasn't expecting it. A delightful mystery with a strong female lead and distinctive storytelling flare, I became an instant fan and immediately began looking for other books in the series. (Kimberly)

***Some racism, consistent with the period, is present in the context of British colonialism.

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book set primarily in Africa, a mystery set primarily in another country, a book with a desert, a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list

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Daughter of Arden Trilogy by Loren G. Warnemuende

Explore the transformative journey in which a spoiled princess evolves into a formidable heroine under the guidance of a faithful mentor. This powerful trilogy not only offers a tale of hope and redemption but intricately weaves the truth of a loving father, ultimately pointing to the One who provides unconditional love.

A word of caution: Book two contains an intense moment that is skillfully resolved by a rescuer. As such, it's advisable for readers or listeners younger than 16 years old to approach with care. (Charlesa)

Join us in our conversation with Loren on Stories from the Ashes.

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book with a journey, a book with a map, a book with a castle, a book with a blue cover, a book in a series, a book with a character that serves as a guide, a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list

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First Nation Version: An Indigenous Translation of the New Testament

I (Ambre) grew up in the faith and have always used parallel Bibles to be able to spot where concepts are being translated inconsistently so I can dig in further for the author’s true meaning (as one should with a translation!)

This past year has been a dark night of the soul for me. I’ve clung to God but not had the energy to read multiple translations simultaneously. I also found that nothing I was reading was sinking in anyway. My brain was basically saying, “I’ve heard this before, so I don’t need to pay attention right now.” Ugh. I had seen this First Nations Translation online and requested and received it in a gift exchange at the end of ‘22. It was a saving grace through ‘23. In this translation, the truths of God’s Word remained the same, but the sentence structure is different enough that it’s like hearing it all for the first time- such a gift! Also, my teens have found it much clearer and they feel they’re getting more out of it as well. Just what my heart and mind needed. (Ambre)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book with mountains, a book set primarily in Asia, a book that models faithfulness, a book with a boat, a book with a journey, a book that has been adapted into a film or tv series globally

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The Hundred and One Dalmatians by Dodie Smith

The best way I can describe this book is that it is "a hug in book form." It made me smile, laugh, and cry. My heart was simply happy the whole time I listened. The writing is superb. Cruella is a most comically monstrous villain. It is a heartwarming story that ends on Christmas day. (Sarah)

Content Considerations: Mentions of drowning puppies and kittens could be too much for sensitive children.

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book set primarily in a large city on earth, a book that has been adapted into a film or tv series globally, a book set primarily in Europe

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The Invention of Nature by Andrea Wulf

This biography was hands down the best book of 2023 for me! As someone who lives out nature study as a way of life, I was surprised that I had never heard of this man before - which is kind of the point of the book. He’s one of the most influential naturalists ever to live, and somehow he is being lost to history. The author recounts Alexander Von Humboldt’s polymath genius with a pace that makes you feel like you can barely keep up - which is how everyone around him felt when they interacted with him! This book had a ton of fascinating research side quests for me, across many disciplines. He touched basically every influential person of his day, and I found myself wanting to read ten more biographies of all the fascinating people he interacted with. I fell completely in love with him and was very wrapped up in his story. It might just be Baader Meinhof phenomenon, but after this book, I found myself constantly finding the Humboldt connection, and now very often can be heard saying, “All roads lead to Humboldt!” (Dee)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book set primarily in Europe

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Jack Zulu and the Waylander’s Key by S.D. Smith & J.C. Smith

A book becomes a true winner when it portrays solid multiracial friendships marked by love and unwavering commitment. "Jack Zulu" embodies this spirit as Jack and his friends come together to discover their true sense of belonging. Set against the backdrop of the 80s, the nuanced setting adds a fun and whimsical dimension to the adventure, making the reading experience even more enjoyable. Bonus points for a dad and son duo writing team. (Gemma, Charlesa, Cambell)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book that models faithfulness, a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book with mountains, a book primarily set in North America

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Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson

Just Mercy tells the story of Bryan Stevenson, lawyer and founder of the Equal Justice Initiative. As an ambitious Harvard graduate in 1985, he transplanted himself from the relative comfort of Delaware to the nation's center of racial injustice to fight the fight that most people didn't even know needed fighting: systemic racism in the criminal justice systems of the south. Although political implications are unavoidable in a lifetime dedicated to eliminating the death penalty, he was careful not to let partisan differences polarize. Compelling, uncomfortable, and convicting, it's a story that will not leave its reader unchanged. (Kimberly)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book set primarily in a place of historical significance, a book that models faithfulness, a book that highlights the challenges of being an outsider, a book primarily set in North America, a non-fiction book on a global topic, a book that has been adapted into a film or tv series, a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list

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Keeper of the Bees by Gene Stratton Porter

A Scottish-American war veteran has wounds that won't heal and a future he can't abide. What begins as a forlorn flight from hopelessness becomes an adventure that changes everything. As he becomes proxy caregiver to bees and flora and neighbors and strangers, he discovers a purpose and hope he could not have imagined. The relationship between Jami, a mysterious woman, and the indomitable Little Scout make this book a favorite. (Kimberly, Charlesa, Jessica)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book that models faithfulness, a book set primarily in North America

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Laddie by Gene Stratton Porter

This has been my favorite of Gene Stratton Porter’s books so far. Though it was a bit predictable, it did not feel tired to me at all, and the pacing was more driving and exhilarating than her others. I adored the main character’s insight and wisdom expressed through the eyes of a child. The loving family relationships were dear and something to strive for. As I battled my own autoimmune condition which attacked my heart this year, I really latched on to the mother’s unnamed condition and how the family loved and supported her through it. The well-read home-educated child was inspirational to me as well! The little love story arc… the redemption of hard hearts… it was such an uplifting read! (Dee)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book set primarily in North America

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Land of Silence by Tessa Afshar

Land of Silence is aptly named. In this biblical fiction, one tragedy after another propels Elianna into a prolonged season of isolation, but her faith in Yahweh is stronger than despair. This story used loneliness and sorrow to move the plot forward in a way I didn't understand until I finished. For me, the redemption was worth the emotional cost of spending those tedious hours with Elianna; trusting in Christ is always worth the cost. (Kimberly)

Kimberly cautions potential readers to avoid Amazon reviews as several contain spoilers.

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book set primarily in a place of historical significance, a book that models faithfulness, a book that highlights the challenges of being an outsider, a book centered around friendships in a cultural context different from your own, historical fiction or nonfiction from a different country from the one you currently reside in, a love story set primarily in a country you’ve never lived in, a book with a rural setting

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Liar Temptress Soldier Spy: Four Women Undercover in the Civil War by Karen Abbott

This book tells the story of the Civil War through the perspectives of four women on both sides of the conflict. The audio version listens like fiction. (Taleah)

Content Considerations: One of the ladies acted as an escort, but there are no graphic descriptions.

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book set primarily in North America

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Little Pilgrim’s Progress by Helen L. Taylor and Joe Sutphin

If you were going to have only one book in your home besides the Bible, I (Kimberly) think it should be Little Pilgrim’s Progress. If the original classic seems daunting and intimidating, you can safely delight in the gentle language by Helen Taylor and loving illustrations by Joe Sutphin. My family’s very best evening readaloud memories are from gathering around this sizable chapter book. Follow Christian first and then Christiana as they enter the Narrow-Gate, make their way toward the Celestial City, and face all the gritty ugliness of real life and magnificent loveliness of the King along the way. (Kimberly, Jessica)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book that models faithfulness, a book with s journey

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The List by Patricia Forde

Imagine living in a place where language was limited to only 500 words. This middle school dystopian challenges the reader to think of words not only for their ability to communicate, but also for their inherent beauty and power to help us understand our intrinsic selves. This underlying theme is explored through the eyes of Letta, the timid Wordsmith, who learns to be brave. (Kimberly, Charlesa)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book with a blue cover, a Hopepunk story set in another country

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Love Made Me More by Colleen Rowan Kosinski

I (Ambre), absolutely fell in love with this picture book that follows a young boy through the years to fatherhood. With each page features his childhood origami, this is a beautiful book to gift.

(Ambre, Charlesa)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book that models faithfulness

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The Master of Tides by Jamin Still- Book one in the Tales of Hibaria series

Jamin Still created a whole world with what seems like very little effort. Tarian's guardian dies alone after 700 years of dedicated service, and young Cora is the only one who knows. What will she do and who will she trust along the way? Replete with mystery, magic, and a traveling circus, this imaginative fantasy drew me (Kimberly) in very early and kept me until the very end. (Ambre, Charlesa, Kimberly, Crystal)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book with a journey, a book with a blue cover, a book by a small press or publisher, a book that models faithfulness

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A Mother’s Ordeal: One Woman’s Fight Against China’s One-Child Policy by Steven W. Mosher

Emotionally, this book was an incredibly difficult read, yet it's one I (Amber) recommend all people to read. It follows the evolution of a woman who lived through China’s cultural revolution and the horrors that came with it. An incredibly eye-opening read that we should take heed of. (Amber, Christina)

Content Considerations: abortion techniques described.

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book set primarily in Asia

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Mrs. Harris Series by Paul Gallico

Mrs. ‘Arris goes to Paris is a delightful comedic story of an elderly British woman, widowed in World War II, who comes into a small sum of money and begins pursuing her lifelong dream of owning an evening gown from the House Dior in Paris. (Christina)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book that has been adapted into a film or TV series globally, a book set primarily in Europe

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Organize Today for Tomorrow by Dr. Jason Selk, Tom Barton with Matthew Rudy

Organize Today for Tomorrow is a guide that empowers individuals to enhance their productivity and achieve long-term success. Practical strategies and insights are given to help readers organize their lives effectively. The book emphasizes the importance of planning and prioritization, offering actionable steps to manage time, set goals, and maintain focus. (Sarah)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a non-fiction book on a global topic

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A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus

A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus abounds with charm and literary references. Three siblings without a caregiver during WW2 are sent to the British countryside with other evacuees and one powerful, secret hope. Balanced with a perfect blend of slightly unbelievable characters and realistic situations, you'll find yourself rooting for these children, wishing you could take them into your home and make them cookies. Although hard knocks abound for them, I think you'll find yourself chuckling in spite of it all. (Kimberly)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book that models faithfulness, a book with a journey, a book that highlights the challenges of being an outsider, historical fiction or non-fiction from a different country from the one you currently reside in (Europe), a book set primarily in Europe, a book that feels cozy

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The Red Door by Rachel Lulich

We (Ambre, Inara, Gemma) had the pleasure of being beta readers for The Red Door in 2020 while needing a good distraction from our post-fire existence. It was such a fun process, watching it go from beta form to its final form and 2023 publication through Bandersnatch Books!

My girls and I were so excited to see a strong, neurodiverse female character in a middle grade fantasy. As an adult, I found this book to be as enjoyable as my teens and think it makes a great read-aloud for 11+.

(Ambre, Inara, Gemma)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a Hopepunk story set in another country

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The Return of the King by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Return of the King is the final book in the riveting Lord of the Rings series, and it does not disappoint. In this thrilling ending, the characters ready for one last stand against the Dark Lord Sauron and the forces of Mordor. Will Aragorn ever ascend to his rightful place—the throne of Gondor? And will Sam Gamgee survive the darkness of Mordor now that Frodo has been taken? The Ring is once again home, but its end must be the fires of Orodruin. Will the Ring Bearer survive that long? (Inara)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a Hopepunk story set in another country, a book with mountains, a book with a boat

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The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Emmuska Orczy

The Scarlet Pimpernel is the only one who will stand up for the French Aristocrats during the French Revolution—but no one knows who the Englishman is, though his discovery has been the one thing the Revolutionists want more than the murder of every Aristocrat. But the Scarlet Pimpernel is not a normal man. He slips through every trap; no matter how well thought-out and secretive it is, he always finds a way. But will his luck continue when a very dangerous French man is sent over the waters into England to track him down and bring his head back to France? (Ambre, Inara, Gemma)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book set primarily in Europe, a book that models faithfulness, a book that has been adapted into a film or TV series globally, a book with a journey, a book with a boat

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The Shepherd of the Hills by Michael R. Phillips

In the post-baldknobber days of the Missouri Ozarks, a reticent stranger quickly finds himself at home with the simple mountaineers and their backwoods ways, but "Dad" Howitt's life before coming to the hills is not the only mystery in the woods. This story beautifully unfolds amidst a backdrop that is as much a character as the exquisite Sammy Lane, Young Matt the gentle giant, and the enigmatic Pete. I (Kimberly) first read this one in my early twenties, again after becoming a mother, and a third time last year in a more settled season. It's lovely every time, and easy to see why it became the first novel in the United States to sell a million copies. But don't go into it expecting a mystery; just start reading and see what comes. (Kimberly, Amber)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book with a rural setting, a book with a journey, a books that models faithfulness, a book that highlights the challenges of being an outsider, a book centered around friendships in a cultural context different from your own, a book that has been adapted into a film or TV series globally, a book with mountains, a book that feels cozy, a book set primarily in North America

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The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Silmarillion is the beautiful history of Middle Earth, a rich narrative which eventually leads to the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. It reads like mythology and tells the story of the song that created the world and the Valar who were sent to ready it for the Children of Ilúvatar. The tales continue with the wars with Melkor, the arrival of Elves and Men, and the rise and fall (plus the remains) of their great kingdoms. Definitely the next read for any Lord of the Rings fan, but not for the feeble of heart. Do you dare to dive into the secrets of Middle Earth? (Inara)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book with a book, a book with mountains, a book with a rural setting

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The Sinking City by Christine Cohen

The Sinking City had a different feel to it (than The Winter King - see below). It was more fairy tale than myth but equally delightful. I found this to be a book of contrasts and magic. Status and love. Duty and desire. Darkness and forgiveness. An ancient race desperate to make themselves new, the city barely holds together by threads. (Crystal, Inara)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book with a boat

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The Star that Always Stays by Anna Rose Johnson

The Star that Always Stays is a beautiful story about family and growing and learning how to make the best out of the drastic and uncontrollable changes in life. Norvia is an Indigenous girl from Beaver Island who has to learn to navigate a new home and new family and friends while trying to live a normal life that keeps evading her. Why can’t her life be simple and easy like that of all her favorite heroines? (Inara)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book with a blue cover, a book with a boat, a book set primarily in North America

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The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson

The premise is well-known and yet the book still managed to captivate my attention. It reminded me of the Two Wolves Story: the one we choose to feed is the one who will grow. It is a perfect RA book, a reminder to choose how we spend our time and energy wisely. (Sarah)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book set primarily in Europe

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Talking Back to Purity Culture by Rachel Joy Welcher

This book offers a challenging and critical examination of cultural norms, providing a thoughtful response to living one's life with true surrender to God. The healing and powerful message it conveys is essential for those who were raised in the purity culture. (Charlesa, Crystal)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a non-fiction book on a global topic, a book that models faithfulness

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To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

It was such a pleasure to finally listen to this Depression Era book with my teens! I remember my mom reading it aloud to me, and many lines were part of my childhood as my mom, grandma, and aunts quoted them regularly. Our read sparked a lot of hard but valuable conversations. The Audible reader is Sissy Spacek and, since listening, our own mockingbird, Gemma, can now produce a spot on Southern accent! (Ambre, Inara, Gemma)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book set primarily in North America, a book that models faithfulness

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Vasilisa by M.L. Farb

Vasilisa is a captivating retelling of a Russian folktale that delves into the evolution of a tender and caring friendship that ultimately blossoms into a romantic connection. The narrative skillfully weaves intergenerational relationships, adding depth and suspense to the challenges faced by the characters. As they navigate these trials, the story unfolds with a blend of enchantment and emotion, making Vasilisa a compelling and engaging read. (Crystal)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book that models faithfulness, a book with a journey, a book with a rural setting, a book with a castle, a book by a small press or publisher, a book in a series

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The Winter King by Christine Cohen

The Winter King is a delightful hopepunk/fantasy/myth that had me (Crystal) hooked from my first glimpse of the cover. The contents did not disappoint. A Nordic setting, danger, a mysterious sickness, a carefully guarded secret, corrupt leaders, the white wolves...

This was a delightful debut novel from author Christine Cohen that had me quickly jumping into her second book: The Sinking City (see above).

Both of Christine Cohen’s books were "Can't put it down!" stories for me and I am looking forward to reading anything else she might write! (Crystal)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list

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Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk

Annabelle is growing up on a sleepy Pennsylvania farm during the tumult of the second world war. She walks to school, feeds the animals, helps in the kitchen, and plays with her younger brother. In Wolf Hollow, Lauren Wolk weaves a narrative that depends on the setting to be told but also hits on universal, timeless truths about humanity. Elegantly told through the eyes of a child, the reader follows Annabelle's struggles with a bully, a complicated friend, and the truth that could set them free. (Kimberly)

2024 Reading Challenge Categories: a book recommended on the Stories from the Ashes podcast or Reshelving Alexandria book list, a book that models faithfulness, a book that highlights the challenges of being an outsider, a book with a rural setting, a book set primarily in North America

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Want to read with us this year? Check out our 2024 Reading Challenges!

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