Favorite Books I Read During 2020

Adorning the Dark – Andrew Peterson

This was the very first book I read in 2020 (having heard rave comments all of 2019) and it did not disappoint. What a perfectly exquisite and challenging way to begin a year of what I had hoped would be full of creativity, courage, and crossing into new realms of growth and grace. If you are an artist of any sort, you absolutely must read this book. And also, Peterson and Rabbit Room‘s “Hutchmoot” conference later in the year (and online for the very first time which enabled peons like me to actually procure a ticket) ministered to my soul in ways I will never forget. A FAVORITE QUOTE HERE

Companions in the Darkness – Diana Gruver

Did you know that many of our mothers and fathers in the faith actually struggled with depression and doubt? I am so very grateful that my Redbud Writers Guild friend Diana was willing to share her own struggles as she so beautifully wove the stories of tragedy and (sometimes-but-not-always) triumph in the lives of people who have inspired me through the years. This book personally gave me hope and I know will do that for the one-third of Americans currently struggling with darkness. MY REVIEW

Staying Power – Gene/Carol Kent and Dave/Cindy Lambert

Yes, I am married (almost 37 years) and yes, I need wisdom for sticking it out during the hard times, but friends this book is for even those not married! Anyone who seeks perseverance or endurance in any area will discover valuable life lessons from these four dear friends - the Kents and Lamberts. Between them, they have experienced many challenges that could have been destructive. But why and how they kept going will stay with the reader for a long time. MY REVIEW

The Stillness of Winter – Barbara Mahany

I knew we were coming up on perhaps the hardest winter of our lives, so when my dear friend Barbara’s beautiful new hardcover released in October, I devoured it. This Chicago Times journalist writes in such lyrically spiritual ways that I feel all comforted and calm just reading her exquisite words. The combination of blessings through silence, service, creativity, (even cooking) all combine to quite literally keep me going throughout December/January/February. When I realized this is what I wish for my dearest friends as well during the months ahead, it became my go-to gift. Savor the serenity. MY REVIEW

This Life We Share – Maggie Wallem Rowe

Even if the author wasn’t my BFF, I promise this book would be on my top dozen list for any year! It was worth the long wait to see Maggie’s first book of essays which so beautifully take life with God, others, and ourselves and juxtapose those stories with the story of God’s grace, forgiveness, and empowerment. You will be transported and transformed. This is also a beautiful hardcover which became one of my go-to gifts for the whole year. Enjoy. MY REVIEW

Will the Circle Be Unbroken? – Sean Dietrich

Easily my favorite autobiography of the year but, like my own “Soul Strong,” it was released in February just as the world shut down, so might have been overlooked. I read Sean of the South‘s blog every single morning and it was so good to embrace this hard biography of how his life turned out “okay.” I marvel at his honesty and I quite simply love the way Sean turns a word and tells a story. Perhaps not for everyone, but for me, it touched my southern soul and reminded me of amazing second chances with God. I hope to meet him in person one day, perhaps even in Thomasville… MY REVIEW

A Long Time Comin’ - Robin Pearson

Long before this book won a Christy Award, my friend Cynthia told me I absolutely must read it. She knew that I grew up in the South and would so very appreciate the “voice” of Robin. I do! I loved her insight into a community and life that is authentic — both in the hard and in the happy. Can’t wait to read her next book coming out soon.

As Bright as Heaven - Susan Meissner

As soon as we entered a pandemic and everyone kept referring to the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918, I knew I wanted to read a story set in that time. This well-researched novel that originally released in 2018 was a great insight into another time and place of viral terror. But, the story went beyond the disease, and how people found strength to cope and move forward was especially inspiring. My used copy has made the rounds amongst friends and neighbors. A FAVORITE QUOTE

Daughter of Rome - Tessa Afshar

The early church comes alive with this riveting story of Priscilla and Aquilla and Paul and all the scenes, smells, suffering, seeking, and strength of those who chose to follow The Way. In my humble opinion, no one portrays biblical characters so realistically and redemptively as Tessa. And her vast knowledge of the culture, backed by meticulous research, will leave you longing for more. Also, her first novel “Pearl in the Sand” had a new ten-year release this year and is fabulous! MY REVIEW

Night Bird Calling - Cathy Gohlke

This book actually was RELEASED YESTERDAY! But, since I was invited to do an endorsement, I had the great privilege of reading this story in the Fall of 2020. Oh my. Y’all know Cathy as a multi- Christy Award winner and expert in capturing the heart of historical events and the people who lived through them. I have many Gohlke favorites. But I didn’t realize I was waiting for the hardest story of all — this one set in the Appalachian mountains. It is sad and yet full of strength. I applaud the courage it took to tell it, and pray that many will find healing through these words. Be sure to read “Note to My Readers” at the end. MY REVIEW

The Tea Chest - Heidi Chiavaroli

I never even heard of time-slip novels until my friend Heidi began writing them and winning awards! Fortunately I was able to attend her in-person launch party for this one just before the lockdown. What message does the Boston Tea Party have for us today? You might just be surprised to discover that people still struggle with decisions and choices. And that God has not changed. MY REVIEW

What Momma Left Behind - Cindy Sproles

I’m always thrilled to endorse Appalachian novels by a favorite Cindy — I only wish you could hear her accent whilst reading this story (she narrated it in my mind.) Amazingly, it also takes place during a scourge of death and disease, resulting in many orphaned children. The story asks good questions about who is family and what can we do to reach out to the suffering. As someone privileged to have raised several children I didn’t birth, I so embraced every element of this beautiful story of suffering, serendipity, and strength. MY REVIEW

Asking for a Friend…

Did you perhaps read MY NEW BOOK of 2020 - “Soul Strong - 7 Keys to a Vibrant Life?” This interactive life guide is truly my “legacy book” with all the important words I’d like to pass on to daughters everywhere.

If you READ, PURCHASED or GIFTED “Soul Strong” I want to Thank You from the bottom of my heart. Truly, releasing these legacy words into the world was a great cause of rejoicing for me in the year 2020!

May I share 3 things about this 15th book of mine born in an unprecedented year?

1. If you have a copy of the book and would like to hear my 8-week teaching on “Soul Strong” (complete with videos you can watch any time, outlines and discussion questions) just send me an email with “Soul Strong Study” in the subject line and I will email you the links. Free, but a love offering optional. LucindaSMcDowell at g mail dot com
2. You heard it here first — the Oasis Audiobook of “Soul Strong - 7 Keys to a Vibrant Life” on CD and Audible will release in February with yours truly as the Narrator. Woo Hoo!
3. If you have read any part of “Soul Strong” and could leave a 2-3 sentence online review it would greatly help! (I need 33 more to make it to the magic 100 over at Amazon.)