Now that we’ve covered our reader moods and filled at least the first few months of our calendars with highly anticipated books, let’s look back at our 2018 favorite reads!
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Introducing the Hope By the Book 2019 Reading Challenge!
my top 2018 favorite reads
Book bloggers who are able to pick a top 10 astound me! I read nearly 200 stories this year so I think the narrowing down my favorites to 10 percent is fair enough. The books below are ones I personally adore and look forward to rereading in the future.
Here are my top 20 favorites in alphabetical order by author…
Jane by the Book, Facade, & When You Look at Me by Pepper Basham
That’s right, I’m counting two novellas and a novel as one favorite. When it comes to Pepper Basham’s stories, I’m completely shameless.
Burning Sky by Lori Benton
If you love vivid frontier fiction and Native American culture, read everything Lori Benton writes!
Sons of Blackbird Mountain by Joanne Bischof
Joanne Bischof is a masterful storyteller and her raw, honest characters speak straight to the heart.
The Lost Castle by Kristy Cambron
These walls have a beautiful story to tell of the generations who lived and loved here. Cambron charms readers with three interwoven time periods!
The Accidental Guardian by Mary Connealy
I just can’t resist the combination of strong heroes, feisty heroines, and sweet kids. Connealy’s humor seals the deal!
Cities of Refuge by Connilyn Cossette
In addition to being engaging and entertaining, this series has been a fascinating exploration of the Cities of Refuge and their culture.
Hidden Among the Stars by Melanie Dobson
Sacrificial love connects multiple lives amidst mystery, heartache, and conflict spanning two time periods.
Hope By The Book Gold Star
The Lacemaker & The Frontiersman’s Daughter by Laura Frantz
A beautiful story of strength, love, and patriotism! Who knew Welsh was such a swoony language?!
I listened to The Frontiersman’s Daughter on audio and was completely torn for Lael!
Orphan Train series by Jody Hedlund
From eastern cities to the sprawling farmland of Illinois, these stories tug at my heartstrings with sisterly, motherly, romantic, and redeeming love.
Fort Reno series by Regina Jennings
A novella featuring camels enticed me to check out Fort Reno and I’m so glad I did! Amusing yet heartfelt, sweetly steamy, and delightful!
Age of Faith series by Tamara Leigh
I love hanging out in this story world with medieval men and women of faith, honor, and duty! Definitely rereading material.
Peacock Hill Romance series by Elizabeth Maddrey
This group of friends and family makes me want to pack up for a visit, I’d probably enjoy the stay so much that I’d never leave!
The Making of Mrs. Hale by Carolyn Miller
The Hales’ story stirred my spirit and burrowed deep into my reader heart. I highly recommend Miller’s faith-filled (not preachy) Regencies!
Hope By The Book Gold Star
Freedom’s Kiss by Sarah Monzon
This epic, vivid story has two time periods, food, family, and diversity. The rich landscapes and cultural experiences complement authentic, captivating characters.
Chesapeake Valor series by Dani Pettrey
These stories are so intricately connected on a relational and suspense level! I loved all the crime-solving insight and the Chesapeake Bay area setting.
A Rumored Fortune by Joanna Davidson Politano
Politano’s stories are clever, intelligent, and packed with bookish goodness. I adore her unique style!
The Cupcake Dilemma by Jen Rodewald
While reading this novella, I continually felt like it was written JUST FOR ME! The humor, heart, and pop culture references were right up my alley!
Caught by Surprise by Jen Turano
Turano’s quirky humor is irresistible from the outlandish yet historically accurate character names to their eclectic tastes and habits.
Montana Fire series, Troubled Waters, & Storm Front by Susan May Warren
Romantic suspense fans who like a little heat and sizzle will LOVE Susan May Warren’s hotshot, smoke jumper, and rescue series.
Shadows Over England series by Roseanna M. White
I adore this ragtag family of street kids, all the historical tidbits, and of course the espionage!
What are your 2018 favorite reads, reader friends?
I had a terrible time narrowing my choices down from over 250 books to just ten, plus three honorable mentions. I love the way you did it! And I love your choices.
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Yes! The struggle is real! Thank you!!! How blessed are we?! All these books!!!
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Some of my favorites from 2018 were Elizabeth Maddrey’s Peacock Hill series!
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Right?! They’re great!
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Great choices, Beth! I’ve read a lot of these and loved them, but there are a few I still need to get to.
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