End of Summer Christian Reading List

Cozy books to begin your fall, a Puerto Rican sofrito recipe, and a prayer

Aug 23, 2025

I deleted Instagram for a few days and told myself that it was time for me to be done with the platform altogether…then I realized again that God has blessed me with a platform, so maybe I should use it. Those few days were great and cleared my head mentally.

It took me being on Instagram again for 2-3 days to already waste 6 hours of my life scrolling. I don’t know how to have a healthy relationship with the algorithm that entices me with short videos of all sorts—recipes, outfits, theology, someones last video they’ve ever recorded before they died of cancer, someone else’s depressing vlog of moving across the country after they buried their daughter, an old man singing a song about his wife who died, the latest war…all before I brush my teeth in the morning.

How do influencers do it without going crazy?

This question that I am learning how to answer is one of the reasons why I have recently been retreating to books. Books force you to be present. When you glide your eyes across the page, you must focus to understand the plot in a story. And when you allow the words to linger, you begin to slow.

When you read a book and sit with a story, you learn to pay attention…to practice stillness. And especially when you read books filled with biblical truths, it allows you to see things in a different light, quiet our mind and allow our world to be shaped by truth, beauty, and imagination.

Slow reading reminds us that not everything needs to be consumed instantly, some things are meant to be savored over time.

Just like meditating on scripture, we can allow wholesome, faith-filled stories to draw us into reflection and refreshment for the soul (not to say reading books should replace your time with God in scripture and prayer).

Now that that’s said…here is a list of some reads that I have on my TBR. And a couple that I’ve read personally that I think you’d really enjoy.

The Huntress by Carrie Cotten
This medieval Christian fiction drew me in with its rich storytelling and strong faith themes woven through the characters’ journeys. I loved how it balanced action and adventure with deep spiritual truth. I gave it 5/5 stars and am now hooked on the series!
[ Get it here ]
The Viking by Carrie Cotten
Currently, I’m reading this second book in the Huntress series, and it’s already pulling me deeper into the world Carrie Cotten created. I love how the story brings together history, faith, and courageous characters. It’s refreshing to read Christian fiction that feels both adventurous and spiritually meaningful.
[ Get it here ]
A Voice in the Wind by Francine Rivers
This is a Christian classic I can’t wait to dive into—it explores faith under persecution and the cost of following Christ in a hostile world. Francine Rivers always challenges readers to consider their devotion to God in a real and personal way. I’m excited to see how this story strengthens my faith.
[ Get it here ]
Memory Lane by Becky Wade
Becky Wade’s books are known for blending contemporary romance with themes of redemption and grace. This one caught my attention because it promises a heartfelt story filled with hope. I’m looking forward to the gentle reminders of God’s goodness she always threads through her writing.
[ Get it here ]
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
A timeless classic, I’m eager to finally read this beautiful story of love, character, and redemption. Austen’s wit and exploration of virtue make this book not just a romance but also a reflection on humility and grace. I think it will be a refreshing read alongside modern Christian fiction.
[ Get it here ]
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
This story highlights the values of family, virtue, and self-sacrifice—principles that echo biblical womanhood. I know it will inspire me to lean into simple joys and godly contentment.
[ Get it here ]
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
This is the book we’re reading together in our book club, and I couldn’t be more excited! It’s a retelling of the book of Hosea, showing God’s relentless love through a powerful story of redemption. If you haven’t subscribed yet, now’s the perfect time! (Book club launching September 1)
[ Get it here ]
Last Light (Restoration #1) by Terri Blackstock
I’m intrigued by this Christian suspense novel, which imagines life when modern comforts suddenly collapse. It raises thought-provoking questions about faith, family, and what truly matters when the world is shaken. I’m looking forward to the way it blends page-turning drama with spiritual reflection.
[ Get it here ]
The Radiance of the Moon by Ashley Worrell
This Christian fantasy caught my eye because of its themes of light, truth, and God’s presence shining even in dark places. I love stories that point back to the spiritual battle we face as believers while still offering beauty and hope. I’m eager to see how this book blends imagination with faith-filled encouragement.
[ Get it here ]
The Spice King by Elizabeth Camden
Set in the Gilded Age, this historical Christian romance promises both rich history and a meaningful message. I’m drawn to how Elizabeth Camden writes about faith, integrity, and courage through compelling characters. This feels like the kind of story that will not only entertain but also inspire a deeper appreciation for God’s hand in history.
[ Get it here ]

Book Club is almost here!

Starting September 1, we’ll be diving into Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers—a beautiful retelling of Hosea and Gomer.

And the best part? Paid subscribers get exclusive access to our Zoom calls! Join us for a virtual Book Club Launch Party in the second week of September, where we’ll decorate bookmarks, sip on drinks inspired by the story, and connect with other amazing ladies.

You won’t want to miss this!

How YHC Book Club works

If you’re subscribed to our Substack—even as a free subscriber—you’ll receive our weekly Book Club email. Each week, we’ll provide a reading plan designed to help you finish the book in 12 weeks, along with thought-provoking discussion questions to keep you engaged and inspired.
For paid subscribers, you’ll also receive the Zoom link and schedule to join our live discussions every two weeks, plus exclusive conversations in the YHC Substack Chat. I highly recommend becoming a paid subscriber—it’s such a meaningful way to connect, share insights, and dive deeper into the book!
Grab your copy of the book here so you can be ready. This is going to be fun, uplifting, and life-giving!

Puerto Rican Sofrito (Anastasia’s version)

Sofrito is the heart of so many Puerto Rican dishes—an aromatic blend that instantly makes soups, stews, beans, meats, and veggies taste richer and more flavorful. I don’t measure too much, I just use what I have on hand (that’s the beauty of it!).

Here’s how I make mine:

Ingredients

Onions
Tomatoes
Sweet peppers (red are my fave, but any work!)
A couple bunches of cilantro
A full bulb of garlic
Salt + oregano
A drizzle of oil

Directions
Blend it all up, pour into freezer bags, and freeze flat. Then just break off a piece whenever you need to add deliciousness to your meals.

This is a staple in my kitchen—especially in the fall when cozy soups and stews are calling.

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