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I hope all is well in your world. It's a bit brisk here in North Texas. I put on four layers for my walk, and I was still freezing.
The Mister suggested that I should take it up a notch and move faster.
I'll let you know what I said after he recovers from his injuries.
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My heart was warm on Sunday when we went over to Lucy's house. Lucy whipped up a few delicious meals in her new kitchen - all while caring for her four babies and three kitties.
Who says a woman can't have it all?
I read some wonderful books this year.
It was hard to choose my favorites, but here goes...
Not only is this my number one book of 2025, but it is also the newest member of my All-Time Favorite list. I only listened to the first few pages of this book before I realized that this quiet masterpiece would eventually own a piece of my heart.
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After several scotches, a middle-aged, recently divorced obituary writer pens his own obituary chock-full of bald-faced lies and outlandish exaggeration. And then he makes a mistake that will change the trajectory of his life forever. He accidentally publishes it on his newspaper's website, and there is no way to erase it.
The writing is sharp, peppered with snarky humor and heartfelt moments. I laughed out loud and wept some quiet tears.
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This is another beautifully written book by one of my favorite authors. It centers on a love triangle that begins on a college campus and unfolds over the years.
This coming-of-age book centers around a painting and four flawed, loyal, resilient friends. In classic Backman style, the reader follows the characters through their loves and losses throughout the years.
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A beautiful story about two sisters and their adored mother, whose soccer career was interrupted by a pregnancy with her coach's child. The story chronicles the girls' trials and tribulations, with heartfelt moments and sorrowful outcomes.
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I have read all of Williams' books, and this one is my favorite. A famous actress who is an alcoholic is given one more chance by the movie studio to redeem her name after many embarrassing moments in the press. Although reluctant, her daughter is brought in to save the day. The dialogue between mother and daughter is clever and snarky. The duo reminds me of Debra and Ava of Hacks fame.
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Without a doubt, this is the best thriller that I have read in a long time. I adore Lisa Jewell's writing. Martha and Nina became such real characters to me that I felt they just jumped off the pages. And the character of Al/Nick was one I loved to hate. I could not put this book down.
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A compelling story about a seemingly happy family hit by a tragic turn. I loved the characters, the AI angle, and the sharp writing.
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I really enjoyed this one, which focuses on a lawyer going through a divorce and needing to drum up some business. In walks a rich widow needing a will to be drawn up. The lawyer reminded me of Eddie Flynn, one of my favorite characters from Steve Cavanagh's books.
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A beautiful, emotional story that tells the tale of one family with three perspectives and six generations. This book broke my heart more than once. There are alcohol abuse triggers that may disturb some readers.
Honorable Mention
This was wonderful. I loved hearing about his somewhat normal childhood and his great SNL stories.
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Adriana Trigiani can do no wrong in my book!
Sweet love story, realistic characters, and the pristine backdrop of Lake Como.
* No George or Amal sightings.
Such a fun book featuring some lovable misfits searching for their father.
The Mister's Top Ten
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You had an amazing reading year. I just finished Culpability - my first 5 star for 2026. I'm putting Under the Stars on my TBR list. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteYou will love it, Tanya.
DeleteThank you for the wonderful book list. Jo
DeleteLoved this roundup, wonderful recommendations. Can’t wait to add these to my reading list!
ReplyDeleteI hope you love them all!!!
DeleteI loved the Bright Years, the Book of Lost Names and the Winemakers Wife. You and the Mister have great taste.
ReplyDeleteShannon
You do, as well, dear Shannon! I love your choice in books!
DeleteTheo of Golden…..definitely my #1….highly recommend!
ReplyDeleteGreat minds think alike!
DeleteMy husband would agree with Mister's choice of "Charlie" as an all-time favorite.
ReplyDeleteInteresting! I had never heard of it before. Again, great minds think alike!
DeleteI just finished My Friends while on the stationary bike this morning - it was so good! I also loved Theo of Golden and The Widow! I need to check out your other choices and order some for my kindle!!
ReplyDeleteI would love to hear yours, as well, Lisa!
DeleteTheo of Golden is at the top of my all time favorites too. Some of your favorites are on my TBR list so happy to see your take on them. Lots of good reading ahead!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy!!
DeleteGreat list! I'm just finishing up My Friends and then Theo of Golden is next on my pile! Cannot wait to read it because everyone seems to love it. From your list, I've also read The View from Lake Como. I just love her books and I've been to the NJ Lake Como many times! Thanks for sharing - and Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteShelley
I love that you've been to Lake Como, NJ!! Have a great week, Shelley!
DeleteKatie,
ReplyDeleteTheo of Golden was just put in my Amazon cart. I know I can always rely on your book reviews. I must say your book review was very touching. Thank you for sharing.
Xx Maxine
Maxine... you always make my day! xx
DeleteLove your book choices. Loved Theo too. I would put "Life, and Death, and Giants" up there with it! It was a very good book! Unforgettable, like Theo.
ReplyDeleteI love to read a few good books a year - and between your list and the Mister's, I made note of a couple thanks.
ReplyDeleteCurrently reading "Theo". LOVE it so far, thinking it will be on my favorites list, too. So many good books! Thanks for the lists!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing such a wonderful list of books. Tell the Mister I especially like his historical fiction suggestions (my favorite to read).
ReplyDeleteTheo took over Beach Music.
ReplyDeleteWow, that tells me something! I got Theo for Christmas and am hoping to persuade my book club to choose it next.
DeleteThank you!! Interesting that you both had the same book on your lists - I have it sitting on my nightstand right now. I gave Theo of Golden as a gift this year - hoping to read that soon too!
ReplyDeleteEnjoyed looking at your best books list. I have read some of them and going to put the other titles in my phone notes. The Mister had some good ones as well. Just started The Widow for book club.
ReplyDelete