Ah, if only there were more days left in the year blocked off strictly for pleasure reading ... I have several titles still in my TBR pile that were released this year, but of the books I've read, here are my favorites (in no particular order):
The Restorer
by Sharon Hinck
From the moment I saw the cover I was intrigued. And I've always loved stories in which people from our world find themselves in another. Susan Mitchell, an ordinary soccer Mom and wife in our world travels through a portal (quite accidentally) to an unknown world where she soon realizes she has powers and skills only a promised Restorer would have.
The Restorer's Sonby Sharon Hinck
The sequel to The Restorer. Susan and her husband Mark travel back to the world they'd just left to rescue their son Jake who accidentally entered the land through the same portal Susan did. Just as good as the first book. I would love to see these novels made into movies!
The Stones Cry Outby Sibella Giorello
Discovering this novel was like finding a twenty dollar bill in my pocket I thought was lost. I hadn't expected to find it, but boy was I happy I did. Giorello has a gift for telling a compelling story, and her word usage had me amazed at her writing skills more than once. Read my review of this book
here.
In Betweenby Jenny B. Jones
This book was another wonderful find this year. I got it in for TitleTrakk.com, but I couldn't send it on to our reviewer without reading it myself. And I laughed through every chapter. I love that about a book. Jenny has the skill to blend humor right alongside the serious. Terrific read whether you're 17 or 70.
On the Loose by Jenny B. Jones
Book #2 in the Katie Parker Production series is just as delightful as the first. If not more so. Jones has created a character everyone, no matter their age, can relate to in some way--even if only for her snarkiness! Okay, and I gotta tell you. I've had the chance to read Book #3, The Big Picture. Katie Parker fans ... you won't be disappointed!
Clear Blue Skyby F.P. Lione
If you've ever wondered what it's like to be a police officer in one of the busiest cities of the world, look no further. Tony Cavalucci is the main character of the Midtown Blue series, and every novel is quality and authenticity wrapped up in a compelling story. The Liones aren't afraid to share truth, whether it be about the tough reality of the streets, or God's love. I really enjoyed learning about the daily grind of a cop's life, on the beat and off. Read my review of this novel
here.
Saving Sailorby Renee Riva
This book was another unexpected treasure. Reminded me of To Kill A Mockingbird in that the narrator was a young girl not unlike Scout of that novel's fame. She's quirky, fun, wise beyond her years without realizing it, and she loves animals. A terrific combination. And humor. Did I mention I was cracking up through this one, too?
Hollywood Nobodyby Lisa Samson
Hmm... I'm detecting a theme here. I think I enjoy books with humor more than I first thought. And quirky characters. Scotty in this novel is a fifteen-year-old girl who travels the country in an RV with her mother Charley to movie sets. First, I loved the RV tidbits since I've also traveled around the country in one, and Scotty's sarcasm and penchant for cheese were hilarious.
Okay ... you're turn! What were your favorites of 2007?
Thanks to my friend Brandilyn Collins for pointing out this link to the top words of 2007. This is intriguing, folks. The #1 word was:
