On My Shelf (Oct 2025) | Christian Books That Stir Love for God’s Word and Inspire Courage
- Amber Thiessen
- 6 hours ago
- 4 min read
Some months, I read for fun. Other months, I read simply to remember what’s true.
Heartache has captured and unraveled us this past month. Naturally, priorities shift and energy consolidates toward what’s most pressing. My reading as a whole has waned, but I’ve found myself spending more time in study and meditation—reflecting, praying, and sorting through the puzzling emotions that could so easily stay hidden if left unaddressed.
The ache is soothed in the hope and peace of Christ. I read to remember the truths of who He is and what He’s done for me. I read to dwell on the beauty and majesty of the gospel.
Of course, I’ve been reading stories too. I still love a good happily-ever-after because it reminds me that there is a happy ending to come, even in sorrow and pain.
So my encouragement to you this month is to keep reading—find stories that make your heart glad, books that invite you to know and trust the Lord more deeply, and words that speak into whatever season you’re facing. Sometimes the ones we avoid are the very ones we most need.
Contents:
Fiction
Nonfiction
Previously On My Shelf
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Fiction
When historical anthropologist Cara Tucker arrives at a secluded Missouri estate for her sabbatical, she’s eager to dive into its centuries-old journals and hidden history. But what begins as a dream assignment quickly turns unsettling. Strange accidents, eerie noises, and shadowy warnings suggest that someone doesn’t want her uncovering the past.
Sheriff Brad Adams has seen plenty in his years on the job, but the string of suspicious incidents at the old estate doesn’t fit the pattern of his quiet county. As danger escalates, Brad and Cara are drawn together—both to piece together the mystery and to confront what’s been buried for far too long.
Out of Time is a suspenseful story woven with history, courage, and quiet faith. It’s for readers who enjoy a touch of danger, a hint of romance, and a reminder that light always prevails over darkness.
I loved An Uncertain Road for Flora Montfort, a widow in 1905 who races through New England in the Glidden Tour to provide for her French mother-in-law. Her determination and heart reminded me of Ruth, seeking to care for her family despite uncertainty. The partnership between Flora and Jensen Gable—the ride-along mechanic haunted by past loss—was my favorite part. Watching them learn to trust each other, navigate mistakes, and rely on God felt so real. This story is thrilling, heartfelt, and a reminder that courage, love, and faithful devotion often come through messy, uncertain roads.
I was drawn into The Words We Lost by Nicole Deese, a story about friendship, loss, and the messy ways hurt can linger for years. Ingrid Erikson, a senior acquisitions editor, is grappling with grief and a rare trauma response after losing her childhood best friend, bestselling author Cecelia Campbell. When Cecelia’s missing final manuscript resurfaces, Ingrid and Joel Campbell—whose past is tangled with misunderstandings and heartbreak—work together to honor her last request. The story pulled at my heart with its raw emotion, deep betrayals, and tender moments of reconciliation. It’s a powerful reminder that even the most broken relationships can be redeemed.
On the Valkyrie drew me in with Isa Bjorndottir’s slow, painful journey from captivity and fear toward hope and trust. Returning to her mother and clan, Isa struggles with shame, trauma, and the weight of a past that still haunts her. Reider Gunnersen, an outlaw tasked with guarding her, becomes both protector and companion as they navigate danger, secrets, and the challenges of rebuilding life. What I loved most is how Isa’s growing faith and courage shine through even the darkest moments. This medieval historical fiction is gripping, emotional, and a reminder that Christ’s hope can carry us through even the hardest recovery.
Nonfiction
In leadership, there’s always more to do—tasks to plan, people to care for, decisions to make. It’s so easy to slip into self-sufficiency and forget that our strength isn’t enough.
Francis Schaeffer’s The Lord’s Work in the Lord’s Way & No Little People reminded me that ministry must begin and end in dependence on God. And that in His kingdom, there are no small roles or forgotten servants—only faithful ones.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your quiet, behind-the-scenes work matters, this little book is a needed encouragement. (Read more here)
Have you ever found Bible reading slipping into routine—a checklist to get through instead of an invitation to meet with God? That’s where I found myself, until Matt Smethurst’s Before You Open Your Bible reminded me to pause and consider the posture of my heart before opening God’s Word.
This short book is packed with wisdom, encouraging us to approach Scripture prayerfully, humbly, joyfully, and expectantly—so our study becomes more than knowledge and blossoms into worship and communion with Christ.
Whether you’re new to reading the Bible or it’s been part of your life for years, this little book will refresh your perspective. (Read my whole review)
Looking for a solid Bible study for your fall group?
John’s letters were written to give believers assurance—not just to believe, but to know they believe.
In 1, 2, 3 John For You, Sam Allberry walks us verse-by-verse through these powerful letters, using three recurring “tests” of faith:
Doctrine – believing the true Jesus
Love – caring for our spiritual siblings
Obedience – joyfully walking in God’s ways
This commentary is both accessible and soul-stirring, helping you and your group grow in faith, love, and joyful obedience.
Whether you’re leading a small group or studying on your own, this resource will help you walk in the light together. (Read my full review here)
Previously On My Shelf
(this made me chuckle, I realized I've been doing this for longer than I'd thought!!)
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The asterisks indicate books I graciously received from NetGalley and/or the publisher in exchange for the opportunity to share an honest review.