Red Platoon: A True Story of American Valor by Clinton Romesha

A firsthand account of the fourteen-hour firefight at the Battle of Keating by Medal of Honor recipient Clinton Romesha. This book was riveting, and at the same time horrifying. Because you find yourself thinking “this actually happened.” There's a lot of insight into the soldier’s background. Then the battle itself is written so well you feel as if you are standing in the line of fire. A truly compelling read about incredibly brave soldiers willing to sacrifice all for each other.

Shelter Me by Juliette Fay

This book is sad but its sorrow is offset with the perfect dose of humor and hope. It’s truly a lovely story. Janie is a mom of two (delightful) children and she is a widow. Four months after her husband’s death, a contractor arrives to build her a porch. Her husband meant it to be a surprise, and now it’s his last gift to her. You experience Janie’s internal struggle; she is grieving and devastated but holds herself together for her kids. She wants to push everyone away but needs their help more than she realizes. She may even fall in love again. This book will make you look for ‘everyday miracles.’ You’ll understand that last sentence if you read this charming story