Relz Top 10 Reads of 2009

What a year 2009 has been for me ~ filled with a lot of sorrow, anxiety, stress and difficulty ~ as it no doubt was for many people. Life has been tough, no question, but then I think of the many blessings in my life ~ God, my refuge, my loving family, my faithful and caring friends (including my fellow bloggers), an accommodating employer, my home and my church ~ and it provides me with a better perspective.

Added to those blessings are the fantastic publishing folk and devoted publicists who have been a joy to work with and last but not least, the engrossing stories I have read and the amazing authors who pour their heart and soul into the words they grant us the privilege of reading. I have "met" a number of new authors in 2009 and can't wait to introduce you to their books in 2010. It really is a joy and privilege to do what I do and share with you, my wonderful readers, the books, their authors and characters ~ looking forward to continuing the fun!

Those of you who take the time to stop and read my blog, I am forever grateful and amazed you do! When you share your thoughts in your comments, I am encouraged and always love reading your thoughts so thank you, thank you, thank you!

Now to my top ten reads of 2009! I said last year that choosing these books gets harder every year and not a bit has changed! These books are in no particular order and I have chosen them because of the joy, encouragement or challenge they have brought to me (click on the links for my reviews):~

The Blessed by Lisa Tawn Bergren

Breach of Trust by DiAnn Mills

Deadlock by Robert Liparulo

The Moment Between by Nicole Baart

Just Between You and Me by Jenny B. Jones

An Eye for An Eye by Irene Hannon

Veiled Freedom by Jeanette Windle

The Passion of Mary-Margaret by Lisa Samson

Leaving Carolina by Tamara Leigh

City of the Dead & Guardian of the Flame by T L Higley (snuck in two, I know!!)

And just like last year because it is way too hard to stick to only ten, I'm adding some extras:

Critical Care by Candace Calvert

Never the Bride by Cheryl McKay & Rene Gutteridge

The Frontiersman's Daughter by Laura Frantz

Beyond this Moment by Tamera Alexander

The Enclave by Karen Hancock

Lost Mission by Athol Dickson

Please share your favourite reads for 2009.

And finally, I hope 2010 brings you much to be thankful for!