Five Fall Favorites - Day 5: Instructional Nonfiction

Can you believe FFF is almost over?? *cries* it's been fun, y'all. BUT. It's not over yet. So we won't dwell on that. *nods* We'll just add more books to our TBR!

Today we're exploring instructional nonfiction! I don't know about you, buuuut I...haven't read nearly as much as I should. As is evidenced by the lack if diversity in my recommendations. Whoops. *shrugs* But, anyway, they're all instructional nonfiction, so it counts. *grins*

(can you believe that I only have one writing book on my list? *gasp* tbh I have good intentions but never actually take the time to read them *hides*)

The Writer's Guide to Weapons by Benjamin Sobieck

Disclaimer: I haven't actually read this entire book. I've read part of it, and I definitely learned a lot from what I read! I just...haven't read the whole thing. *hides* I can't wait to, though! My writing partner gifted me this book and Y'ALL it's so BIG. *grins* So yeah, definitely recommend this one if you're writing a book that contains weapons. 'Cause, ya know, it's kinda important to get your facts write. (pun intended. *smirk*)

No Other Gods by Kelly Minter

Devotionals count, right? Right. *nods* This one is so thought-provoking and convicting. It points out the 'small G' gods (little things that we wouldn't think of as idols) that we use to unknowingly replace the 'big G' God in our lives, and how we can conquer and get rid of them.

Beyond the Square by Edie Eckman

Where my crocheters at?? I love this book. Not only does it have spiral binding so that it stays open while you've got your hands busy, it's got soooo many motif patterns, as well as tips and tricks for joining, changing color, etc. (the companion book, Connect the Squares, is equally as good, but I forced myself to pick just one of them. *sigh*)

The Armor of God by Priscilla Shirer

Another devotional! *grins* This one is...wow. The first devotional I ever did by Priscilla Shirer, and definitely not the last! It goes into depth how the armor depicted in Ephesians 6 correlates to how powerful and useful the Roman armor was, and how each piece had a specific use. Shirer then goes on to describe how we can apply it spiritually. So good.

Reversible Color Crochet by Laurinda Reddig

Can you tell I haven't read much instructional nonfiction other than devotionals and crochet books? *cackles* whoops. Anywayyy, this book is about how to use the author's unique technique (hey, that rhymes) for changing colors—and it makes the crochet work reversible! Plus, it's got a bunch of patterns with which to use this method, and they're all so pretty.

Are you an animal lover? If so, come on into the barn! You can pet the animals, feed them, and even maybe ride one or two if you'd like! Or, if you'd prefer to skip directly to the reading part, you can scamper up to the loft, cuddle up in some hay (still got your blanket? The hay can be pretty itchy!), and get lost in a book. Or maybe there's a book you'll find at Five Fall Favorites that'll tell you how to befriend a goat—you never know. ;)

And, of course, the giveaway! Today is the last day, so hurry and tell your friends to enter!

What sort of instructional nonfiction do you read? I obviously need to branch out more!

Five Fall Favorites - Day 4: Holiday

Aside from Epistolary (didn't figure I could only use Dear America books for that one) (but even then, I don't think I've read enough), this was probably the hardest genre for which to find books! But Kaitlyn, you may be thinking, surely you've read enough Christmas books!

Yes, yes, I have. And to give you only Christmas recs would be easy. But the catch here is that we had to find books with any holiday but Christmas. Yeah, I was getting pretty worried there for a sec when I couldn't find anything! But I did find enough...we'll just ignore the fact that over half of these are picture books from my childhood. *grins sheepishly*

Thanksgiving: A Harvest Celebration by Julie Stiegemeyer

This, I think, was the first book that popped into my head when I was told holiday—but not Christmas!—it's so perfect because, not only is it about the very first Thanksgiving, but when I was little, amid all the decorating and crafts Mom had us do for school instead of actual homework (she was pretty good at keeping us entertained Thanksgiving week *grins*), she also had us act out this book. So that was a lot of fun. And, being the only girl old enough, of course I was always the main character. *bows* (besides, by the time my sis was old enough, she just wanted to be an Indian with the boys *facepalm*)

Cranberry Thanksgiving by Wende & Harry Devlin

Yes, another book from my childhood! This is one we'd always check out from the library, and for some reason I just loved all of the Cranberry books. I think it was the illustrations, actually. They're...so...I don't know how to describe it, haha! I just remember that I would stare at Mr. Whisker's suit because of the texture. *shrugs*

I Don't Dance by Jesseca Wheaton

If you personally know the author like I do, you won't be surprised when I say that this book is for Independence Day. ;) The book isn't about the holiday (it's actually about a soldier and a girl he's known since his childhood), but it's in the book, soooo...that counts. ;)

Little Town at the Crossroads by Maria D. Wilkes

*smirks* You can't guess the holiday for this one, can you?? (Yes, it's another Independence Day book.) But for real, it's a Little House book, so you can't go wrong with that. Plus, I love the Caroline books more than the Laura books! (Aaaaaand the Charlotte Years...and the Martha Years...) (mini rant: it drives me crazy when people say 'Happy 4th of July!' Guys. The holiday is Independence Day. You don't go around saying 'Happy 25th of December!', do youuuu???)

The Parable of the Lily by Liz Curtis Higgs

A cozy lil' Easter read with alllll the Spring vibes! Another picture book, of course, but I remember absolutely loving to look at all the illustrations in this one. 

Have you ever read out on a lake? I haven't...but when books are involved, I'll try pretty much anything new! As long as I don't drop the book in the water, that is. That...would be absolutely tragic. But c'mon, let's give it a shot!

And don't forget to explore the other stops in the party!

As always, the giveaway—have you entered yet?? I sure wish I could have all of that stuff!

Are you a seasonal reader, or do you read holiday books whenever you feel like it? Or do you (like me) just not read much holiday fiction at all?

Five Fall Favorites - Day 3: Medical

Today's genre was super fun! Probably mostly because it was pretty easy to find enough books to shove in y'all's general direction. ;)

How are you enjoying the party?? Started reading any of the new recommendations yet? Or has your TBR just grown about ten times?? Even though I'm writing this post ahead of time, I think I can safely say that my TBR has become a small mountain!

And nowwww, on to the medical books!

 A Question of Loyalty by Jesseca Wheaton

If it's by Jesseca Wheaton and if it's a part of her Questions of War series, then you definitely know it's going to be good! Of course I'd recommend reading the trilogy in order, but I've heard that this one could be read as a standalone. It's all about WWII and military medics and nurses and prison camps and...*grins* time for a reread.

When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin

This. Book. Is. So. Beautiful. It makes your heart ache for what was lost. It gives you hope for the future. Aaaaannnnd...pretty much anything else I tell you about it will give away spoilers. But. There's a little girl in it. And a man with a past that would make you cry. And a river. So there's that.

Never Say Goodbye by Sarah Grace Grzy

I was afraid I wasn't going to like this book, seeing as how it looks like a completely sappy romance, but it's not. And it has a tiny lil' baby girl. And a doting paramedic father whom she has wrapped around her finger. And a bookstore owner (!!!!!) and a past that comes back with hurts and just...*happy sigh* soooooo good. Read by my review here.

Tomorrow We Die by Shawn Grady

If this looks like a suspense novel, it is. ;) Another book about a paramedic who discovers secrets that may, if he were to be found out, cause his demise. I wish I could share my favorite Grady novel, but, ya know, that one's about a firefighter and wouldn't exactly fit in the 'medical' category.

Angels Walking by Karen Kingsbury

This...this is literally one of the sweetest books I've ever read. I want to read again so bad. Tyler, a baseball player, sustains an injury (I love sports-related books anyway, but add an injury and you've got me sold! *smirks*) and ends up having to find a job. This job lands him in a nursing home (as an EMPLOYEE, don't worry!), where he meets a woman that changes his life. Except this woman isn't a romantic interest. And AAAAHHHHH I LOOOOOVE this book!!!

Who else loves a bonfire—especially when there's s'mores involved?? *mouth watering* The evenings are getting cooler, at least where I'm from they are, so scoot a little closer to the flames and read by firelight. Sorry I don't have any blankets to offer you today, but if you visit the blankets room, I'm sure they'll let you bring one outside for a bit. ;)

(psssst—don't forget to find the books room for your free short story!)

And, of course, there's always the giveaway...

Do you enjoy medical books? Or do you faint at the sight of blood—real or imaginary?

Five Fall Favorites - Day 2: Epistolary

 While trying to find some epistolary books, I came up sadly empty. So PLOT TWIST I decided to change my genre today to mental health awareness!

Mental health is super important...so here are some books about it!

(Again, click on the covers to be redirected to the book's Goodreads page)

(Again, the redirection will open on a different page to avoid the frustration with which I am well acquainted, trust me)

Sons of Slaughter by Brian McBride

Just a warning, I would not recommend this book for younger or sensitive readers. It's a super powerful and eye-opening book, but it also has a super dark and haunting plot, and also deals with tough topics (like teen pregnancy, suicide, domestic abuse) and characters. But with that aside, it's very well done, and has a message that sticks with you even after you've read it. It's not a feel-good story...but it's not a horror story, either. Just very, very serious. ;)

Freedom by Faith Potts

Yes, I've talked about this book before, and yes, I'll talk about it again because it's SOOOO GOOOOOD. My favorite read of 2019, if that tells you anything. *grins* Snarky, serious, and full of amazing themes and messages. But again, read with caution—PTSD and suicide aren't easy topics. ;) You can find my review of this amazing book here.

Stories that Bind Us by Susie Finkbeiner

If a story's going to be set in the 1960s, of course I'm going to be curious. And after reading All Manner of Things by Finkbeiner, I had high expectations of this one, and I wasn't disappointed! Betty Sweet (married to Mr. Sweet of Sweet Family Bakery), suddenly a widow and having her sister suddenly show up with a surprise that she least expected...this book is just. so. sweet. You can read my review here.

When I Close My Eyes by Elizabeth Musser

This book hurts, y'all. About a woman who has suffered with serious depression her whole life—calling it a 'black hole'—and then fighting to live after someone's attempt on her life. And then also about her daughter, racing to find out secrets and discovering more than she ever expected—not just about the perpetrator, but about her own mother as well. Find my review here.

Beloved by Kaitlyn Krispense

*Coughs* *coughs again* c'mon, you had to see this coming. #shamelessselfpromotion This book hurts too. Because life hurts. And without the love of Christ...there really isn't any hope. Suicide is a very serious topic and it's so, so rampant in our world today. People need hope, y'all. Let's give it to them. (besides. It totally counts to use my book. *grins*)

Grab a bushel basket and go pick some apples in the grove—or fill them with books that you find at Five Fall Favorites! The choice is yours—but I know what I'd pick. ;) (pun unintended *smirk*)

And, of course, you can't forget the giveaway!

Are your baskets full yet? What's your favorite epistolary (or mental health) book(s)?

Five Fall Favorites - Day 1: Vintage

Welcome to day one of the Five Fall Favorites party! You may remember me joining in this party last year, and though I didn't do well at all with promoting the event beforehand, I'm joining this year, as well!

Don't remember what the FFF party is about? Or you're just new here? Well, FFF is going to be six days of posting five book recommendations in the specified category for the day. Today just happens to be all about vintage books, and while I didn't think I'd read enough to even recommend, I actually did find enough! So. On with it! *grins*

(Note: click on the cover images to be redirected to the Goodreads page of the book!)

(Another note: each link opens a new window so you won't have to worry about going back n' forth)

(Also these are in no particular order, but my favorite of them all is probably the last one)

Austin of the Air Force by Dan Senseney

Probably one of the first military books I read...but don't quote me on that. ;) It's been so long since I read it that I hardly remember what it's about anymore...but I do remember that I read it twice and it's about two buddies who enlisted in the Air Force and *spoiler alert* got into a fight over something.

Dirt Track Summer by William Campbell Gault

Again, one that I haven't read in years, but again, one that I read twice. (I read most of our old hardbacks twice bc I just liked them...) This one's about a couple of brothers and their friend who build a race car together (I think?? I'm pretty sure??) and try out for races. I remember loving how Gault described the races, the driving, etc.

Kavik the Wolf Dog by Walt Morey

Once upon a time, Kaitlyn finally read a Walt Morey book upon her aunt's suggestion, fell in love with the story, and then proceeded to read every single book the library had from said author. *laughs* I kinda did that a lot when I was younger—obsess over one author at a time. Anyway, Kavik (wounded dog?? Dude nurses him back to health?? Yes pls) is just one of sooooo many fantastic books. If you love books with animals in key roles, you're definitely going to want to check Morey out. ;)

Wild Trek by Jim Kjelgaard

Another animal author! Except, Kjelgaard (if anyone has any clue on how to pronounce that name, pleeeeaaaase enlighten me) wrote books mainly about dogs. Yes, there was a point in time that I was just obsessed about dog books, I think, but hey, at least I got recommendations for you animal obsessors. ;) (If you're wondering, this one's about a trapper and his dog who come upon a wreckage in the mountains and have to lead the two survivors to safety #minordetails)

Moccasin Trail by Eloise Jarvis McGraw

Like I mentioned, this one's probably my favorite on this list! I've read it three or four times, and it never got old, and since it's been several years, I think it's time for another read. *grins* I mean really. Dude gets reunited with his long-lost siblings, but after living with Indians for so long, he can't even remember what it's like to be a 'white man' and he has to—*stops before this becomes a worse run-on sentence* Just...just go read it. *shoos you away*

But wait—the party's just starting!

I happen to be one of ten bloggers participating in this party! Each day, each of the blogs hosts a different 'room'—basically using autumn activities and items to use your imagination while we have an autumn-esque party! Today I'm the blankets room. Because there's nothing quite like curling up in a blanket next to the fire (or wherever your favorite reading spot happens to be(depending on where you're from, haha) and cuddling up with a good book. So take one of my recommendations, smell the old glue in the vintage binding, pour yourself a warm cup of your favorite hot beverage and get lost in the pages.

(pro tip: go find the books room for a free short story!)

To find the rest of the participants and their recommendations, visit the literary lodge, the headquarters for FFF! Also known as Read Another Page. ;)

Did I also mention that there's a GIVEAWAY?! Click the image below to enter!

Aaaaaand I think that's everything! Come back tomorrow for five more recommendations, but in a different genre!

Do you enjoy vintage books? What are your favorites??