Last year I selected six books that would make excellent gifts for anyone and I decided to sort-of continue the tradition this year. I’m editing the list this year to only focus on the books I think my readers would enjoy. I picked three non-fiction books and three novels that portray smart, full-hearted women who are defining their place in the world.
The Accidental Beauty Queen by Teri Wilson
I was lucky to receive an advanced copy of this and I have not stopped talking about it. From the author of the “Unleashing Mr. Darcy” series (you may know them from Hallmark movies), Teri Wilson’s book about a beauty pageant is thoroughly funny, entertaining and romantic and would be perfect for teen/college aged readers on up.
Any excuse for a Miss Congeniality GIF
And this one too!
The Light Over London by Julia Kelly
So technically this book doesn’t come out until January 8, 2019 but do yourself (and the reader you love) a favor and pre-order it. It’s a fantastic story about the inspiring women who protected London during World War II and their heartbreak, sacrifice and friendships.
There are no funny GIFs about WWII and the Blitz but this one came up when I searched for “Women Fighting Nazis” so I guess it will do…
Becoming by Michelle Obama
I’ve always followed politics and probably knew of Barack Obama before a lot of people had heard of him. I remember there was a column I read about how his wife, Michelle, was far more successful and accomplished than he, and that if he were to run for President, they expected her to be the first candidate’s wife to keep her job. Of course, she ended up being a fairly traditional and active First Lady but that original impression of her always stuck with me – that she was the brains in the marriage. I am very excited to read (and give!) this memoir to learn more about this half of the former White House power couple.
Any excuse for my favorite world leader friendship GIF…
Together – Our Community Cookbook – HRH The Duchess of Sussex
When I heard about this cookbook project, I knew I would love it. It supports a community of women who banded together to provide fresh food to their neighbors after a horrific tragedy. And it was announced by The Duchess of Sussex at an event where Prince Harry was caught stealing samosas so what’s not to love? (Watch it here)
Speaking of stealing food… turnabout’s fair play…
Whiskey in a Tea Cup by Reese Witherspoon
I don’t buy every celebrity memoir, but I love the ones from celebrities I adore (usually the funny smart women – Tina Fey, Mindy Kaling, Shonda Rhimes). So of course Reese Witherspoon’s book instantly made the cut. Part memoir, part lifestyle guide, it reminds me of all the quirky things about being a modern Southern woman. We may be educated, independent businesswomen, but some rules about etiquette and fashion and food are still deeply ingrained in us. This book would be a great gift to anyone who loves Elle Woods.
Any excuse for an Elle Woods quote…
The Royal Runaway
Yes, my book IS the perfect Christmas gift for your girlfriends, daughters and sisters who fell head over heels during the royal weddings in 2018. The book is a blend of mystery, adventure, and romance so there’s something for every type of reader!
Amazon || BN.Com || Simon & Schuster ||Apple || Amazon UK || Kobo
Any excuse for a royal wedding clip….
