Top Ten Tuesday: Books I've Read That I'd Like In My Personal Library

Happy Tuesday! Today's Top Ten Tuesday link-up theme is Books I've Read That I'd Like In My Personal Library. I read a LOT of books each year, and I own many of them. However, some of the books I review are ebooks. So, my list is comprised of books I've read, but I don't have them in print (at least not yet!). The majority of these books are 2018 or 2019 releases.

So, here we go, in no particular order...

My review...

4.5 stars

Before We Were Yours is a book that is likely to stay with the reader long after the final page is turned. It's poignant and heartbreaking, yet totally engaging. Beautiful prose and well-drawn, captivating characters quickly pull the reader in. It's easy to see why this book has been at the top of the list of best books and long hold lists at the library.

Told via dual timeline (past and present), this is not an easy story, by any means, as the horrors the children faced are almost unimaginable. (I did find Rill's story a bit more engaging than Avery's, but they are carefully woven together.) Prior to this book, I'd never heard of Georgia Tann, the Tennessee Children's Home Society, or the illicit adoptions associated with them in the 1920s-1950s. Facts are woven throughout to enlighten the reader on historical events. Wingate's story shows how, through it all, God never forgot these children. Family (those you are born into and those which are chosen) is a key theme.

My review...

4 stars

This is a fun book for those who enjoy crocheting. However, for books such as this, I much prefer hard copies, as they're easier for me to reference while working on a project.

Overall, this is a cute book. I've wanted to try amigurumi patterns for some time, and this seemed like a good way to start. The images and directions are clear, unlike some patterns I found online in the past. They're done in a way, and with tools, that the average crocheter should be able to use and follow. There is a great selection of animals (one for each letter of the alphabet). I haven't made any of the items yet, but I'm looking forward to trying many of them. The author does a nice job of providing a basic introduction to amigurumi in the special way that the patterns are made (with increasing and decreasing stitches, switching of colors, etc.)

(Note: This review is based on a general read through of the book and directions, as well as the variety of the selections included.)

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

My review...

4 stars

As a former special education teacher, I found this book to be heartbreaking at times. It's an emotional read that may surprise or shock some readers in its accounts of how people like Lucy were treated. Characters are well developed, the pace stays steady throughout, and emotions were realistic.

The book was based on actual place, which is just horrific to learn. Sadly, some things detailed in the book still occur throughout the world today. I thought the author accurately portrayed the mid-to late-70s. The story is quick read, told in alternating years to give the reader the "then and now" story.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

My review...

4.5 stars

This is my first Sager book, but it will not be my last. This is one of the best books I've read in 2019.

Jules just lost her job and boyfriend, and she is now homeless with few options … until the perfect opportunity comes along. Her friend Chloe isn't so sure, as things that sound too good to be true usually are. Jules disagrees and accepts a job as an apartment sitter at the iconic Bartholomew, an historic apartment building overlooking Central Park. While there are a few strange rules, Jules believes the pay ($12,000 for three months) is more than worth it … until unusual things begin happening and another apartment sitter suddenly disappears. Her search for answers could place her right in the middle of a sinister situation. Can she get out before it's too late?

I enjoyed the fact that the story was told in first person POV. I like the structure of the book (going back and forth in time). I had a hard time putting this book aside, as it totally pulled me in. Jules is an easy character to like, and I found the mystery and twists in this book creepy and unique. I certainly didn't anticipate the ending. A definite page-turner for me!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

My review...

5 stars

I'll be reviewing this book on my blog on September 5, 2019, so come back then to find out my thoughts on this fabulous book (5 stars!). It's a book you won't want to miss.

My review...

4 stars for the overall series

I've read this series a couple times, and I've watched the movies a number of times. It's a series I'd like to have in print (and I'd LOVE to get it autographed one day). When I read the first book, I was a bit skeptical, as it was outside my typical reads ... but I'm glad I stepped out of my comfort zone. This book was the stepping stone to expanding my reading horizons 😃

My review...

4.5 stars

Romanov was one of my most-anticipated reads for the beginning of 2019, and it didn't disappoint!

This is a reimagining of the final Czar of Russia and his family, with a focus on the youngest daughter Nastya (Anastasia). I didn't know a lot about the Romanovs (short of the movie Anastasia), so wasn't totally sure what to expect. I loved the fantasy mixed with history mixed with a few facts. The book is well-researched, and Brandes points out in her notes just what is real and what information is stretched. The story shows the hardships the Romanov family endured. There was far more of a family focus to the story than I'd expected going into the book. Mystery and tragedy, and a bit of romance, combined to make this a truly engaging tale. I kept telling myself, "One more chapter," and I was sad to see it end. 

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

My review...

4 stars

This is the first solo book I've read from Lee, but it will not be the last. (Prior to this, I've only read a book she co-wrote with Ted Dekker.)

The story alternates between Wynter's asked (inside the cult) and present (outside the cult), so the reader is updated on the backstory without having info dumps. The quick pace of the story keeps the reader actively engaged. Characters and scenes are well drawn and easy to visualize. I particularly liked Wynter, who was a strong, determined heroine. Overall, the premise was a unique one for me (a girl cast out of a cult combined with an apocalyptic angle). While fiction, and some parts a bit harder to believe that others, Lee gives the reader a lot to think about (the danger of false prophets, how far people will go to fulfill their own wants, disease, etc.)

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

My review...

3.5 stars

I was so excited to read this book, as I really enjoyed the first on the series. It's certainly best to read the books in order. A person would likely be lost if they tried to read this one as a standalone.

I really like Selene and how she is trying to figure out who she is in her search for the truth about the Light, as well as the internal struggle of what it would mean to go against her family and the legacy she was told she must fulfill. I liked how Busse showed the growth of Selene's relationship with Damien, too. The characters are realistic and the pace appropriate. I can't wait to read the final book in the series!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

My review...

4 stars

I've never read any of Ware's prior books, but I'll be looking them up after reading this one! The ending plot twist was one I certainly wasn't expecting. The story kept me engaged the entire time. I liked how the story was structured (with the main character writing a letter to try and convince an attorney to represent her, as she is in prison for murder). And the smart house? Totally creepy! If I'd ever considered one (which I haven't), this book would change my mind. It was a bit unbelievable that parents would hire a nanny and then leave her alone with their kids almost immediately after she starts, but everything else was so well done that this angle could be forgiven and overlooked. I will be adding other books by this author to my TBR pile.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

What about you? Who are some books you'd love to have in your personal library? These could be books you've borrowed from a friend, checked out from the library, or even own as an ebook. Share your answers below.