One of the unexpected benefits of being a stay-at-home mom is that I finally have enough time to read.  I’ve loved reading since I was a little girl, and I’ve really enjoyed nurturing my mind and spirit through books.  In this post I’d like to share some thoughts about the books I’ve recently read. I’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve read any of these books as well as any book recommendations!

Minimalism: Live a Meaningful Life by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus

I stumbled upon the Minimalists while watching a Rachel Cruze YouTube video and have been fascinated ever since.  This book features a deep dive into life’s critical values and how minimalism might help the reader focus those values.  The book added a lot of value in my life (to borrow a phrase) and it’s one of the few that I plan to read again. If you are a fan of the Minimalists or are interested in minimalism, I would consider this a must-read.

Lone Survivor by Marcus Luttrell

This book is the incredible account of Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell during his time of service in the navy, specifically during Operation Redwing.  Although my husband read this book years ago and told me what to expect, it was still an intensely emotional read. I highly recommend this book if you are at all interested in the military or simply love epic stories.  It is truly a life-changing book.

Two by Two by Nicholas Sparks

I needed a pick-me-up after Lone Survivor, so I sought out a book by my favorite guilty-pleasure author: Nicholas Sparks.  This novel follows the journey of a father who navigates his dissolving marriage, career change, and a few other setbacks that you’ll have to read about for yourself. If you like Nicholas Sparks, you will be a fan of this book.  It’s not my favorite of his books, but I still enjoyed it.

A Love Letter Life by Jeremy and Audrey Roloff

This book is a memoir of the first several years in Jeremy and Audrey Roloff’s relationship, who you probably know from the TV show “Little People, Big World”.  I love listening to the Roloff’s podcast so I knew that I would enjoy their book. It contains great dating, engagement, and marriage advice and gives readers a glimpse into the kind of love story that is worth pursuing.   This is another one that I highly recommend!

The Sacred Enneagram by Christopher L. Heuertz

If you are interested in the Enneagram, the Christian faith, or a combination of the two–READ. THIS. BOOK.  This one was another life-changer that not only gave in-depth descriptions of each Enneagram type, but it also illuminated how each type can find its way back to the heart of God.  When I finished this book I felt like I had a better understanding of myself in addition to practical ideas for deepening my relationship with the Lord.

I’m currently reading two additional books and plan on starting another soon.  I’ll be brief with my thoughts on these but wanted to include them as well.

Everyday Millionaires by Chris Hogan

This book is giving me life.  I am a financial nerd and enjoy books about money, so this book is right up my alley.  It features a wealth (no pun intended) of information that was gathered in a study of 10,000 millionaires.  I’m a little over halfway done and I already think everyone should read this book.

The Curse of Oak Island by Randall Sullivan

If you watch the TV show on the History channel, you will love this book.  It is a thorough history of Oak Island and the treasure hunt that has been going on there for the past 200+ years. I am only 30 pages in but I was immediately hooked.  

Everything that Remains by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus

This is another book by the Minimalists, and you already know how I feel about minimalism.  I haven’t started yet, but I’m looking forward to it!