Books to Read or Give... {I think you'll LOVE these books!}

Okay, I am almost giddy just thinking about this post. First, let me say that I don't read as much as I should or would like. But, I have absolutely loved these books, and am happy to recommend them to you! I will give you a quick overview of each book and why I loved it below. And then, I'd love to hear your book recommendations in the comments below!


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I just finished reading A Life Less Ordinary today! And wow, it's been awhile since I've been so inspired by an interiors book. This is a coffee table book with 300+ jaw-dropping photos, but a wonderful read as well. The authors, Zoe and Alex, are two creative women who founded the store i gigi in Brighton, England. You will be swept away by this story of friendship, shop ownership and artistry, that is also packed with decorating tips. A feast for the eyes...

It would be hard for me to tell you about books I love without including (again) My Life in France. This book will transport you back to France in a bygone age (1948), where you'll be captivated by French culture, Julia Child's newfound passion of cooking, and a special marriage that stood the test of time (and continents!). Chicago Sun Times reviewed this book as, "Lively, infectious... Her elegant but unfussy prose pulls the reader into her stories." I couldn't agree more...

Entre Nous: A Woman's Guide to Finding Her Inner French Girl is just pure fun! If you need a light but insightful, feel-good book, this one is for you. The author lived in France for over a decade and helps unravel the mystery of the "French Girl" - her confidence, style, and outlook on life. I'll never forget the story of her French friend who likes to take a bath before her dinner guests arrive so that she is relaxed when entertaining. Can you even imagine? (I can't help but wonder when the toilets get cleaned. ;) You'll look forward to every page...

Okay, this next book, Lord Have Mercy: Help and Hope for Moms on Their Last Nerve, contains much-needed encouragement for all you moms and grandmas out there! This book is near and dear to my heart as it is written by my amazingly-gifted friend, Ellen Miller. I met Ellen, Founder of the technology firm Insider Marketing, twenty years ago when I was working in the technology industry, just out of college. You feel Ellen's presence when she walks into a room. Radiating joy and humble confidence, God has taught Ellen so much through her parenting, and now grand-parenting journey. I love this devotional and have dog-eared so many of its pages for future reference. I even giant-dog-eared one devotional so it would stand out from the standard dog ears - it was that good! (Sorry to all you purists out there who would never fold a book page! ;) If you get the book and are curious, giant-dog-ear is Day 77...

Have you ever dreamed of picking up and moving to a new country? Maybe France? On Rue Tatin: Living and Cooking in a French Town is the true story of Susan Loomis, who moves to an "ancient little street" in the picturesque town of Louviers, Normandy. She and her husband choose a run-down convent to restore as their new home. (Now I've got your attention! :) Loomis also shares delicious regional French recipes. A relaxing, joyful read... 

So there are my recommendations... now I'd love to hear what you're reading and can't put down!

And do any of the above books appeal to you?

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Xo