My idea of total relaxation is plopping myself by a body of water (ocean, lake, river, bathtub…I’m not fussy) and immersing myself in a good book. While I truly appreciate a good chic lit novel, I’m also partial to self-help, personal and professional growth, devotionals, and historic fiction. And don’t underestimate the power of the occasional beach read (a.k.a. bodice ripper!).
A few years ago, I joined a local book club called Lit Chicks, which has expanded my reading repertoire even more. The Lit Chicks have read our fair share of WWII novels along with some psychological thrillers. Most recently, we read Delia Owens’ Where the Crawdads Sing, a book I thoroughly enjoyed.
Click HERE and learn how to start a book club of your own.
Because of the variety of reading I do, I decided to track the books I read in 2019. Some I liked, some not as much. But each title offered me something, whether respite, information, inspiration, entertainment, or relaxation. As an author and avid reader, I have tremendous respect and admiration for the people who share their time and talents to write these books. It is definitely a labor of love.
Kelly’s 2019 reading list
Boundaries by Cloud & Townsend
When to say yes and know how to say no in order to take control of your life and set healthy, biblical boundaries with your spouse, children, friends, parents, co-workers, and even yourself.
Silent Sister by Diane Chamberlain
A novel about a young woman and how her family’s good intentions go awry in difficult and tragic circumstances.
Tenacious Hope by Bridging the Gap
A 31-day Devotional on discovering joy and peace in God’s perfect plan. I had the privilege of contributing to this book.
Grow Your Business by Mark LeBlanc & Henry Devries
How independent consultants deliver value to clients and grow their business.
Styling for Instagram by Leela Cyd
A visual tutorial on creating and curating beautiful shots for Instagram.
Death by Meeting by Patrick Lencioni
A blueprint for leaders who want to eliminate waste and frustration among their teams, and create environments of engagement and passion.
Brain on Fire by Susannah Cahalan
A powerful memoir of one woman’s diagnosis, disease and struggle to recapture her identity.
Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis
A self-help book that encourages you to stop believing the lies about yourself so you can become who you were meant to be.
You Are Worth It: 52 Weeks to Honoring, Loving, and Nurturing Your Soul by Louise Griffith
A weekly journey of guided challenges and affirmations that encourage self-acceptance and gratitude.
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
The story of a mischievous young boy who grows into a restless young man as he struggles to find himself in a world where he was never supposed to exist.
The Impact Blueprint: A Step-By-Step Journey to a Life of Significance by Joe Schmit
A book of short stories and quotes to inspire and enlighten you to make a difference in the lives of others.
Behind Closed Doors by B.A.Paris
A psychological thriller about newlyweds Jack and Grace. They seem to have it all…but something isn’t quite right.
Wonder-Full: Activate Your Inner Superpowers (No Cape Required) by Kelly Radi (yes…me!)
Learn from real-life Wonder Women in this book while you laugh, cry, reflect, journal, and doodle your way to living your fullest life.
Side note: Yes, I did actually read my own book…about a hundred times through the editing process! It is exciting and grueling. Thrilling and nerve-wracking. But so worth it when you get to hold a printed copy for the first time. The thrill of seeing it on bookstore shelves never gets old! And the idea that people are choosing to read my work to improve their lives is priceless. It is a joy and a privilege I do not take for granted.
Order your copy of Wonder-FULL today!
Stella Bain by Anita Shreve
Set against the backdrop of World War I, a story of a woman searching for the secret of her identity.
The Lager Queen of Minnesota: A Novel by J. Ryan Stradal
A novel of two sisters, Midwestern values, hard work, fate and the secrets of making a world-class beer.
The German Girl by Armando Lucas Correa
A young girl flees Nazi-occupied Germany with her family and best friend, only to discover that the overseas refuge they had been promised is an illusion.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
A tribute to the natural world, a heartbreaking coming-of-age story, and a surprising tale of possible murder.
With the holidays ahead, don’t forget that BOOKS MAKE GREAT GIFTS. Share the love of reading with your friends and family this holiday season and in the year ahead!
Are you the parent of a high school or college student? Then Out to Sea is the book for you. Order your copy today!
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