One thing I did a TON of during my pregnancy was read. READ, READ, READ. Mostly that meant fiction because I never felt like I had a ton of brain power to get through other genres (even though I usually try to read a variety), and it really helped cut down on the amount of TV I watched. Anyone else find themselves mindlessly turning on the TV or scrolling social media over and over when there's "nothing else to do"? Well, grab one of these books and get yourself out of that habit!
I Let You Go by Clare Mackintosh | I've totally jumped on the bandwagon of female-driven thrillers (think The Girl on the Train), and I Let You Go is a GREAT next pick for you if you've just finished one too. I've always loved mysteries but never before have I gotten halfway through one, said, "Whaaaaaa?!" and started rereading from the beginning to figure out what I missed. (****)
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi | Warning: This book will probably make you cry. I suppose that's inevitable when the author is penning his memoir on his deathbed. But man, it is so poignant and so ... clear. Kalanithi is just 36 years old, a neurosurgeon and—in an ironic twist of fate—has cancer that he can't cure. He explores his life and faith in the midst of huge trials. (*****)
Rising Strong by Brené Brown | A study on vulnerability and the strength to rise up from defeat, Brown's Rising Strong spoke some truth to me. I think, though, because I wasn't currently struggling with a huge fall, I had some trouble getting into it and relating to her stories. The next time I'm struggling with being brave, however, I'll definitely be reaching for her words. (***)
Tell the Wolves I'm Home by Carol Rifka Brunt | A beautifully written story about love and loss and moving on. June loses her uncle, who is her favorite person and seemingly only friend. She has a hard time letting go until she meets another important person from her uncle's life who can relate to her loneliness. (****)
For the Love by Jen Hatmaker | Oh my goodness do I love Jen Hatmaker. She makes me cry with laughter (check out her Instagram to see what I mean). I absolutely loved her book 7 and knew I would enjoy For the Love because her writing style is so succinct and witty. She is a Christian author who explores all the ways we compare ourselves to others in this modern world and how we can break free of that life. (****)
What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarty | This was a super easy and fun read—perfect for the beach, a lazy Saturday morning or late pregnancy! ;) Alice wakes up from a head injury 10 years older and realizes she's lost the last decade of her life. Think about all that could change in that amount of time! (****)