Rosaries, Land Rushes and Secret Santas: Gratitude Runs This Week's Free Faith Reads

by J. C. Ryle

J. C. Ryle lays out seventeen duties for Christian parents, and he admits up front that nothing in it is new. That's kind of the charm. It's short, direct and old-school, so it suits parents who want a plain-spoken nudge rather than a modern parenting manual. Nearly 1,900 readers have it at 4.66, which is very strong for a book like this.

by Rose B. Mashal

This is the odd duck of the week. Marie Archer's brother comes home from the Arab Kingdom of Alfaidya engaged to a princess, and Marie ends up handing her own life to a man who stands for everything she despises. It's an arranged marriage romance first and a religion title barely at all, but with over 2,400 ratings at 4.08 it clearly has fans. Readers mention it comes with a few spoilery bits, so go in fresh.

“***I was provided with a complimentary ARC from the publisher, through Netgalley.com, in exchange for honest feedback.*** When Marie is whisked away by her older brother to attend his rushed wedding to an Arabian princess, she had no idea that the wedding she would be attending was also her own. Nev”

by Kristelle Angelli

Jenna hasn't thought about her Catholic faith since Confirmation, and her parents' divorce has flipped her world over. Then the Rosary enters the picture. One reviewer says there isn't much of a plot but the messages hit deep, while another felt it reads like women's inspirational fiction crossed with a spiritual memoir. It's 4.61 from 150 readers, and I'd point it at anyone who wants quiet, devotional storytelling over twists.

“I found this book to be quite unique. As a fictional story there isn’t really a huge plot but this book overflows with deep poignant messages. This young adult novel would be perfect for anyone wanting to deepen their Catholic faith or someone with questions regarding the Rosary. There are so many...”

by Chautona Havig

A family gets scammed out of thousands for a diabetic alert dog for their little boy, and a young woman decides to raise $25,000 fast. It's a cozy Christmas story with secret Santas, and one reviewer called the ending predictable but loved it anyway. That sums it up well. It sits at 4.17 with 76 ratings, so it's a good pick if you want some early holiday warmth.

“This was a really fun book! Very Christmasy and thought it had a kinda predictable ending, I loved it! :D Though there were a few parts that were pretty surprising. (like Neil, hehe) The characters were awesome too!! I've heard about this author before and this is my first time reading one of her bo”

by Harun Yahya

Harun Yahya takes the everyday phrase about seeing good in everything and tries to dig into what it means to be thankful for Allah's blessings. Readers call it a powerful reminder to think past our basic comprehension. A reviewer who owns many of his books notes they all share one signature habit, so you'll know what you're getting if you've read him before. It's 3.96 across 68 ratings, the lowest on this list but still solid, and best for readers who like reflective devotional nonfiction.

“'Seeing Good in All' is a powerful reminder of our need to think beyond our basic comprehension. It reminds readers that nothing occurs without a purpose and enables one to retrospectively ponder life's 'unexplainable' situations. A book that questions the reality of 'sudden occurences' and teaches...”

by Paulette D. Marshall

Bessie says yes to Jasper, he gets delayed, and she heads to the Oklahoma Land Rush to claim her own piece of land. Reviewers describe it as sweet and faith-filled, but also full of mystery, danger and secrets, which makes it more than a simple Thanksgiving romance. It's the second book in the Thanksgiving Brides series and holds a 4.52 from 33 readers. Fans of historical Christian romance should jump on this one.

“Bessie's Blessing This is a sweet, faith-filled, heartwarming book. Bessie and Jasper have much to be thankful for. Jasper has business to attend to and will not be able to go on the Oklahoma land run, but Bessie decides to go without him. Disguised as a man and accompanied by family friends, she is”