Who wins the argument? (Let's chat fiction) | VLOG

Superfight Card Game: amzn.to/479WuJW
Mentioned books:
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah: amzn.to/3FYcZMZ
The Kitchen Front by Jennifer Ryan: amzn.to/3sGveDD
The Bold Return to Giving a Damn by Will Harris: amzn.to/3QX8cSt
Hey ya'll, I'm Jess from Roots & Refuge Farm
Welcome to a place that feels like home. A small farm with a big family. We hope you'll pull up a chair, grab some coffee and visit awhile.
There was a time that all I wanted in the world was a little farm where I could raise my family and grow our food. Now, that is exactly what exists outside my door. In watching it unfold, a new dream was formed in my heart - to share this beautiful life with others and teach them the lessons we've learned along the way. Welcome to our journey, friend. I am so glad you're here.
*********************
WHERE TO FIND US (Some of the links here are affiliate links. If you purchase through our links we'll receive a small commission but the price remains the same - OR BETTER - for you! Be sure to check for any mentioned discount codes.)
- Our Website: rootsandrefuge...
- Sign up for our newsletter: rootsandrefuge...
- Join our Patreon to get early access to podcasts and other information, plus monthly LIVES with me and Miah: / rootsandrefuge
- Abundance+ (Grab a FREE 7-day trial): rootsandrefuge...
- Shop our Stickers & Shirts: rootsandrefuge...
- Order my first book, "First Time Gardener": rootsandrefuge...
- Order my second book, "First Time Homesteader": rootsandrefuge...
- Instagram: roots_and_refuge
- Facebook: / rootsandrefugefarm
- Email Us: [e-mail]
- To drop us a line:
PO Box 4239
Leesville SC 29070
- To have a gift sent to our house from our Amazon wishlist: www.amazon.com...
- To support us through PayPal: www.paypal.com...
**********************
PRODUCTS WE LOVE - You've probably heard me talk about these things a million times, so here's where you can order them (and get a discount with my code!):
- Greenstalk Vertical Gardens (Use code "ROOTS10" for $10 off your order): rootsandrefuge...
- Squizito Tasting Room (Use code "ROOTS" for 10% off your order): rootsandrefuge...
- ButcherBox: rootsandrefuge...
- Growers Solution: rootsandrefuge...
- Neptune's Harvest Fertilizer: rootsandrefuge...
#rootsandrefuge

[@missouribroad978]

If there was all the time in the world, I would love a Roots and Refuge book club. Something about discussing a good book makes me swoon. I especially enjoy books set during the Great Depression and during the pioneer days. Books about making it during hard times.

[@wagardenjournal]

Maybe we could start a group on goodreads - roots and refuge fan club😊😊

[@thepadillafamilyhomestead]

There was one on Facebook I think.

[@tommielourogers4327]

Great idea! Maybe have different categories, like great cook books, great garden books, great novels, great Sci-Fi and fantastic fantasy books and of course great personal growth and Spiritual books. That would be a lot of fun.😊

[@jonescreekfarm9084]

If you like books about the Great Depression, buy the book called Ten Lost Years. It’s personal stories from people who experienced the Great Depression. I suggested this book to Jess about 6 months ago. It’s pretty interesting.

[@Onnada]

Me too! Pick me! I volunteer as tribute!! ❤

[@kateverett7869]

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society - book made into a movie. This story was not what I expected. It gets very intense! Takes place on the Island of Guernsey in the English Channel during WWII. Nail biting story of survival, love, community, and heroism during a very dark time.

[@jodyrhodes7413]

Excellent book !

[@lesleywilliams323]

It made a good film too… I think it’s on Netflix

[@brandymcdonald260]

I came here to recommend this one also

[@anitalindsey4166]

I loved this book so much!!

[@tashap5144]

Oh I have this on Audible & couldn't get into it - time to try again! I am out of credits & mining my older books that didn't click at that time. So far I must have been crazy back then because I've found some terrific books in my own library!

[@vonniemerriam974]

I just love Ezra's exuberance over everything. Not just Super Fight, but almost every video he's been in he just shines with passion for whatever's in his hand.❤

[@kathleensmith608]

P.S. The Honey Bus

[@debichats8634]

I’m hooked on the Outlander series…I’ve read them all once and am starting them again. Diana Gabaldon has done so much research in the writing of them….lots of historical research. It takes place in the mid 1700’s. Extremely well written. I’ve watched the series on STARZ too and it adds to the belief that you can’t beat the books….I am part Scottish so that makes it even better! It makes me appreciate how easy life is now compared to all they had to do to survive! ❤

[@connieatkins7390]

I totally agree. I'm reading for the 2nd time too

[@sharynhassard1625]

🎉 I love Diane Gabaldon books too. ❤

[@mistycherie]

Love this series too, I started it back when it only had one book! I am also of Scottish descent, so that's part of the original appeal as well. I have seen parts of the show but haven't kept up, the show seems to be pretty good from what I remember.

[@kitstah9741]

Love this book series! I've been a fan since '91, have reread the series a multitude or times, and listen to the audio books repeatedly on my long distance road trips over the years.

[@bnelson2180]

Totally agree 👍 love this series

[@sherryb8191]

Jess, thank you for including interactions between you and Miah on this channel. It gives insight on what a loving and healthy marriage looks like and you may not realize it, but y'all are role modeling what that looks like and it is very refreshing! Same with your interactions with your children! I honestly come to your channel more for vlogs like this these days than the gardening because having gone through mental health issues lately (and winning the fight thanks to God and my family not giving up on me and loving me through it), seeing how you role model and how much we have in common is stirring a desire deep in my heart that I'm ready to have friends again, but want someone faithfilled like you in my life. So while we can't be friends IRL, you have been more of a friend to me during my struggles than what I can express here on a public forum. Thank you for letting God shine through you. You matter to me and I'm glad I found you all those years ago when you first posted about tomatoes. ❤

[@denisewade6439]

I’m on the third book by James Herriot, “ All Things Bright and Beautiful “, who wrote “All Creatures Great and Small”. I’m addicted now. Do you all remember the TV show? I also just finished “ The Keeper of The Bees” by Gene Stratton-Porter. I listened to this one on audio which really brought it to life. Great narrator and it takes place during WWI 😊

[@janw491]

Love the Herriot books

[@shawnahess557]

I love Gene Stratton-Porter's books!

[@Romans828girl]

I never saw the show but I love James Herriot's books! Some stories are so cute, and some are so touching and moving. And I learn things here and there about taking care of animals.

[@kele1264]

Yes, the Herriot books. Outstanding!

[@100snyderm]

​@@shawnahess557I agree! Freckles is one of my favorites!

[@kikiinthegarden]

I feel like I blinked and the boys just grew up, like Jess I’m emotional over here!!

[@MissBetsyLu]

It's ok. You're allowed Go right ahead and spoil them if you want. Blessings everyone everywhere and always

[@sarahleehazel24]

James Herriot’s series- all creates great and small, etc. Yorkshire veterinarian writes about his experiences, some of which are very comical. The audio version is sensational and worth it.

[@kellyraming1038]

I’m sure you’ve probably already read it (and seen the movie) but Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens was an amazing read!! Also, The Book of Lost Friends by Lisa Wingate was a great listen! I love dystopian reads as well, for the what-ifs! I’ll look through my library and see what I have there to recommend. Jess, you are such a lovely soul and you bring me joy with every vlog. Thank you.

[@heatherpfeil2939]

Crawdads was amazing! It’s on my must read list also.

[@jonescreekfarm9084]

I love the Outlander series so much! Claire is an herbal healer that time travelled to a time right before the war between the Scotts and English in 1745. The love story between her and her husband who she had to marry to keep her safe because the English thought she was a spy is amazing! The homesteading, self-sufficiency, and herbal medicine element of this book is also amazing! Available in audio book! I also love the Hunger games and Twilight There is also One Second After, a prepper book.

[@EmilyAnn634571]

The plot is very good, but warning, lots of sex scenes, kinda hard to skip.

[@Bethany_Sue]

Love the outlander books and the 3 one second after books!!!

[@jessicaverkruisen1696]

Best Audio Books ever! so well done, this series inspired and changed me when I first read as a teenager and re-listening to it again now. Cannot recommend any series more than this one! Really hope you give them a chance jess!

[@heartscapesreiki1496]

Also, I know you love Animal, Vegetable, Miracle. Have you read any of Kingsolver's fiction. You would especially like Prodigal Summer. The story centers on farming, forestry and goats, within a beautiful story of two women learning who they are. Any of Kingsolver's fiction is amazing.

[@vickiblizzard1001]

If you love Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, have you also read Gaining Ground by Forrest Pritchard? This is a story of the work to save a family farm by turning it into a market farm. Also The Seasons on Henry's Farm by Terra Brockman - this is also about a sustainable market farm. I enjoyed both of them very much, and they made me appreciate the farmers at our local markets even more than I already did.

[@rcjo2]

Demon Copperhead by Kingsolver. It's the story of a boy, born of a teenage mother, growing up in poverty in Southern Appalachia. The story was inspired by Dickens' David Copperfield. I guarantee you'll be hooked! Kingsolver is one of my favorite authors, and she doesn't disappoint with this one.

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

I read this recently. Absolutely fantastic. When it was over I just sat and cried

[@AnnieandCC]

Another Appliachia story written long ago: Christy. It’s a must-read!!😊

[@tishgaines8835]

Yes! And I thought the narrator of the audio book was really good, too.

[@diannemiller4754]

The Mitford series by Jan Karon. I read the series at least once a year 😊 I've listened to the audio books while traveling over the years. I was in my late 30's when I first started reading Jan Karon books. Now in my late 60 I have followed each Jan Karon book as they became available. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte was my favorite in my early to mid teens. As a child I always had books within reach. Autobiography and biographies we my choices. Amelia Earhart, Ann Frank, the wives of our presidents were devoured during my younger years. ❤️

[@LittleHomesteadOnHinerPond]

I love that series!

[@bethgaither1214]

The Mitford series by Jan Karon is based in Blowing Rock, NC. Beautiful area. I also loved reading biographies of Amelia Earhart, Dolly Madison, Mary Todd Lincoln and many more when I was a child😊

[@user-kx9dc7hn9g]

Jess! If you are remotely into Fantasy Fiction, I highly recommend The Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan. 13 books, they average about 360 pages each and there are 3 or 4 companion books that flesh out the cultures, the people and the history. I have read the entire series at least 8 times, it’s my comfort place! Thanks for all you do! This is one Canadian that appreciates your being you! 🤟

[@pamelalittlechild2923]

Ive been watching the series on prime very good, but much rather read the books

[@stschubs]

I recommend WoT only if you want to commit your life to the 14 books lol

[@nicholewebb9508]

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros The ACOTAR series The Throne of Glass series The Anita Blake series (30 books) by Laurell K Hamilton The Meredith Gentry series by Laurell K Hamilton Those are all my top books right now.

[@julie-annepineau4022]

Slay was so good but I wish it was 200 pages longer. I love everything she writes but I do find the wrap up is rushed in the last few books. Will never stop me from reading all her books as soon as they come out.

[@TruBluLuv]

I love the Anita Blake Series.

[@ThriftyHippie]

I feel like you would like " The Pillars Of The Earth" series by Ken Follet. He is one of my favorite historical fiction writers. Also, "All The Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr about a blind girl in German occupied France helping the resistance. And my fantasy recommendation is "Strange The Dreamer" by Laini Taylor because it's unusual and beautiful and the writing is lyrical.

[@darrenc9607]

I read the first three Pillars of the Earth books this summer. Apart from being good stories, they seem to be an accurate representation of what life was like back in those times.

[@beckymay439]

Love Pillars

[@AnnieandCC]

I just found AllThe Light on Netflix!!

[@milliemrrobinson1074]

Oh, just remembered! The Land Girls series! There's the books, and was also made into a tv series. About girls from all areas of England, transferred to work on farms to help the war effort. I think you'd enjoy this, Jess!

[@pattispatch3902]

I love that we're all so excited that Jess asked for book recs 😊 I've added several to my list while reading the comments.

[@heatherpfeil2939]

Same, creating a long list myself

[@pattispatch3902]

I just finished The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek which was good. If you need another for your list...

[@MissBetsyLu]

Lolololololol You mean we can do that????? Blessings all.

[@MissBetsyLu]

​@@pattispatch3902 I think I read that Blessings everyone everywhere and always

[@MissBetsyLu]

For crying out loud !!!!! I didn't finish the video Before I'm piping up!!!! Blessings everyone everywhere and always

[@theladdhomestead]

WWII: “The Beantown Girls” WWI: “The Victory Garden” I didn’t listen to these on audio, but I love hearing about women’s stories during wartime. I’ve read Beantown Girls twice! It’s about women who volunteered in the Red Cross and what they saw.

[@sherrymurphy-kleine4592]

Author's name, please?

[@theladdhomestead]

@@sherrymurphy-kleine4592 The Beantown Girls by Jane Healey The Victory Garden by Rhys Bowen

[@sherrymurphy-kleine4592]

Thank you@@theladdhomestead!

[@lesleywilliams323]

Check out Julia Kelley…. She writes beautifully about WW2…. One of her books is The Last English Garden…. It’s good… I got it from the library 🤗

[@wearethedepinets]

These are both fantastic suggestions. I loved them.

[@feshnine]

Thanks for asking for recommendations, Jess! Holy Cow!!!! I just spent a delightful 2 hrs jotting down a bizillion authors and titles! Didn't make it through all the comments, because my family has to eat so I must put aside pen and paper.... Maybe you could just mention books you are reading or liking every now and again. Thank you so much! Love you all!

[@SageandStoneHomestead]

Watership down was excellent. The book. I saw the movie and was unimpressed. I listened to the audiobook and his voice is very soothing. Wonderful with the different characters. I cried. It's a personification of a warren of rabbits and their plight to survive.

[@victoriaturnershoemaker3723]

Came here to recommend Favourite book of all time ❤

[@kele1264]

Watership Down has been a life-long favorite of mine. No movie could do it justice!

[@poppyelrod7188]

Agree with Watership Down! It has everything that makes a great story, friendship, adventure, danger, love….

[@bnelson2180]

I’m going to check this one out.. thanks for the recommendation.. the narrator’s voice is very nice!

[@Katsimagination21]

I Love Watership Down ❤

[@LelaWenzel]

“Legends and Lattes” by Travis Baldree it’s a fantasy easy read about an orc that stops her wartime ways and opens a coffee shop because she fell in love with coffee and wants to share it with a new town. The characters are so sweet and well written.

[@MissBetsyLu]

That sounds way cool. Blessings all

[@Michelle-ky8tn]

I think Ezra is going to make a great attorney 😂 what a neat game.

[@MissBetsyLu]

The Courtship of the Vicar's Daughter. That whole series Grand amazing marvelous blessings everyone everywhere and always

[@mrfixit5404]

When my kids were younger, I would read aloud to them in the evening before bed. While not a novel, one particularly fun book was “holes”. After we finished the book we went to see the movie together. To this day my adult kids read quite a bit. I attribute that partially to reading aloud as a family.

[@lynnlovessoil]

Holes is a good one. My 5th grader just read it.

[@alli.iirwin]

The best book I’ve read is “Hotel on the corner of bitter and sweet” by Jamie ford. Historical fiction and it is so poetic, and emotional. Absolutely love it. Thanks for the recommendations Jess!

[@GranolaGirl931]

The Help is one of my favorite novels! I definitely recommend it.

[@foragingandurbanfarmingatt4745]

The book is better than the movie. The part where Minnie and what's her name attack that naked man, lol!

[@wendyw2u]

This was definitely one of my favs to listen to also!!! ❤

[@kaz1388]

Oh, i loved the Discovery of Witches trio by Deborah Harkness (like Twilight for adults - a good escape). Sundownders by Lesley Lokko is a great read with a touch of depth. And Wilbur Smith's Egyptian series, particularly The Seventh Scroll - just the way that man writes is wonderful. Have enjoyed a few from Kate Morton, an Australian author, her books are generally set around that WW1/WW2 time period.

[@vickiblizzard1001]

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. I read the Kindle version, so I'm not sure about the audio version, but I do know this book is probably one of the best I've ever read. I reread it on a yearly basis. The book is so richly detailed that I find something different in it each time I read it. The first sentence is "The circus arrives without warning." Part magic, part love story - it's a story I recommend to everyone who asks what they should read next! Also very, very good is the The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow. This book focuses on the old earth magic, and is sort of an alternate history of Salem. It also focuses on the power of women and the suffragette movement. It's dark, and I sobbed during several parts of the book, but it's another one that I reread on a regular basis. I'd love to know if you've already read these books and what you thought of them!

[@vlunceford]

I listened to The NIght Circus on Audible and it was wonderful!! I also enjoyed Bill O’Reilly’s new book Killing the Witches, which was not fiction but a fascinating book.

[@marisiarobinson4373]

Came here to say the same, listened to it through the Libby app but had to buy the book because the language is so gorgeous. I wanted to reread and reread passages.

[@BrittneyLynnVO]

I came here to recommend this as well ❤️ the audiobook was amazing

[@aastrello1]

Such a great book!

[@beckymay439]

Yay, Night Circus love. I thought I was the only one. Wouldn’t it make a great movie?

[@HappyHealingHomestead]

The Lost Apothecary! If you love medicinal herbs this book is so good! The narrators did an amazing job on Audible as well. Set in London in 1791 and also present day. Love love love it. I just heard they’re making it into a tv series as well 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@catharinab8860]

I loved this one as well, it has the most beautiful cover as well. At least it does in Sweden.

[@terriboyd8655]

The Zion Covenant series by Bodie and Brock Thoene. The absolute best WWII books I’ve read. Unforgettable characters and very historically accurate. I’ve read the entire series several times.

[@orchardhillshomestead]

I absolutely LOVE Cassandra Clare's series The Mortal Instruments! There are several prequel/sequel series that are also in that same universe. The Divergent series by Veronica Roth is an EXCELLENT post-apocalyptic dystopian society series. Also, I thought One Second After by William R. Forstchen was very eye-opening. I'm in the middle of the second book in this series now. Highly recommend all of these! ❤

[@Sh4peofmyheart]

Pretty much any book by Kate Quinn, but I am especially fond of The Rose Code, The Huntress, and The Alice Network. All of them are available in audiobook format, and set during WWI and WWII, so they sound like they may be right up your alley.

[@rachelallen9113]

I love Kate Quinn books! All excellent!

[@HeyMrsDavis]

The Alice Network was SO good

[@stacyparks4084]

Agree, Alice Network was so good!

[@lesleywilliams323]

Loved the Huntress

[@Tracysop1]

I think your new channel is so timely. One of the things that shocked me during the pandemic was seeing the state of our grocery store. All the middle aisles were ransacked. Many had empty shelves. However, the produce aisles were full. People were buying out multi-ingredient packaged foods, but all the fresh and frozen single ingredients were still available. I felt fortunate that I new how to cook (somewhat imperfectly) from scratch.

[@michellewilson7868]

You've probably already read it, Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

[@gardenstatesowandsew]

Loved it

[@gigisgarden8044]

I love this so much lady! Some dystopia novels have started to look like a reality. I see the similarities in the US and the Capitol and their relationship with other countries and districts. I started following you because as a prepper I NEEDED to learn to grow food. I have fully embraced this lifestyle and now I am teaching others in my community. I believe others are awakening quickly. What a time to be alive! Thank you for being my gateway to this life.

[@soilandsazon]

A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES! It’s starts off as a post war retelling of beauty and the beast but then takes a major twist and becomes so much more! I avoided reading it because it was so popular and I usually run far from popular things but I gave in and man did it suck me in! It was painful to put it down but then sometimes I’d have to put it down because I was so overwhelmed with emotion I needed to get my heart together lol. I started to comment this earlier and it disappeared so I’m sorry if it’s a repeat!

[@M3Honestly]

Okay, this one has been on my to read list for quite awhile but your description just got me, this will absolutely be my next series!

[@soilandsazon]

@@M3Honestly you won’t regret it!! I really was an incredible series!

[@joycepinkerton7519]

Sounds good, added to my list 👍

[@gaysullivan1942]

One of my favorite WWII books is “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society “

[@anitalindsey4166]

And it’s amazing as an audiobook!

[@carleryk]

Jessica, I find it so interesting that you asked for book recommendations right at this moment. I'm currently in the process of editing my first fantasy novel geared primarily towards middle grade-aged children. In a few months I'm ready to begin sending query letters to literary agents. Fingers crossed that publishing won't take forever 😅 The book is hopefully a first one of a series. I' would love to send you and your boys a copy once it's published 🙂

[@marysmolinski8807]

Jaqueline Winspear writing the Maine Dobbs series. WWI & WWII psychologist. Sucked me right in. Reread all the time. Blessings!

[@metalmartha2571]

“She’s come undone” by Wally Lamb. I think it was part of an Oprah‘s book club decades ago. I picked it up because it looked interesting, following the story of a girl from age 7, throughout her life‘s journey. Amazingly well written, fabulous book. My copy is literally just a stack of papers now as the binding has broken away many years ago.

[@birdsongvalley]

Wally Lamb wrecks me! Such a good writer!

[@cherihabegger9856]

I love the "Odd Thomas" series from Dean Koontz. They have my heart. Humor, spirituality, romance, terrible pain. And more. I have read them several times and could read them again and again.

[@ErinCrooks-vw3ig]

I’ve never read the books, but loved the movie they made of Odd Thomas. Quirky and heartbreaking.

[@krussell9995]

Same! I really like his Frankenstein series as well. Oh who am I kidding, he's my favorite author 🙂 there isn't a book of his I don't like. But Oddie is for sure one of my favorite characters. My favorite favorite is Seize The Night.

[@cherihabegger9856]

@@krussell9995 I am re-reading the Frankenstein books right now. I love those also.

[@mckennamontcalm]

Everything by Kate Quinn is FANTASTIC. Peak historical fiction 👌🏻

[@kariannecrysler640]

Every couple years I read The Wheel of Time series. It’s 14 books and most are around a thousand pages. The invention of audio books has been a huge bonus for my WoT consumption lol.

[@mistycherie]

Same! I love this series, as well as the Wizard's First Rule series too by Terry Goodkind. I re-read them both almost every year or so.

[@kariannecrysler640]

@@mistycherie My friend Sue likes Mercedes Lackey books & Goodkind. Excellent suggestion

[@bethanyhall2586]

The Silo series by Hugh Howey is great and was just made into a tv series that’s on Apple TV. They did a great job with it too. Also One Second After series by William Forstchen ( both are post apocalyptic) Project HailMary by Andy Weir (sci-fi) I also love the Mrs Pollifax series by Dorothy Gilman -she is a little old lady is flowered hats that goes to the cia and requests to become a spy.

[@Romans828girl]

Mrs. Pollifax is great!

[@squintygnatbug]

Yessss! The Silo series is awesome

[@AmandainGeorgia]

The Silo series is amazing. Such a page turner. And talk about a “what would I do” situation! Lots of food for thought there. 😅

[@OrganicMommaGA]

My absolute favorite series of books (and I don't know if it's still in print or not) is in the category of Native American Historical Fiction. It's by Kathleen O'Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear - it's The First North Americans Series, beginning with "People of the Wolf". There are 29 books in the series, and there's a handy timeline and map in the front of each of the later books to help you know where and when these characters could have existed. It is well-researched and immersive. As I remember, there are a few books that overlap in time and characters, but I think they are also solid stand-alone books.

[@lajuanjensen6820]

Educated!!!! Autobiography.123,758 reviews with a 5 stars.No that is 123,759.I read it and Loved it.

[@missmartpants2269]

I read "the giver" in early high school and I can not say enough, that we are living in "the giver" and "the hunger games". "A brave new world" was a movie I watched a couple years ago and same thing. Fiction is too real lol. God bless!🌱🌾

[@CkHolly-hz2vv]

I think of the Giver a lot these days. Scary.

[@sondancewellness5215]

I watched the movie The Giver on Netflix but didn’t read the book. It definitely hits home of where they’re wanting to go.

[@BethFerrier]

Jess, I'm in my sixties. I've cooked from scratch and kept a deep pantry all of my life. Just in the last few years I've finally had the opportunity to have a big garden and learn to can. I think those two pursuits are "prepper adjacent". It is hard to not get pulled into the fear, but I do love knowing that we're going to be okay in an emergency. I adore audio books, especially series, and I listen to everything except romance and horror. The best audiobook I have ever listened to is "To Kill a Mockingbird" read by Sissy Spacek.

[@phylliszullo7667]

Nora Roberts In the Garden Trilogy, and the Bride Quartet are really good. And I love Dorthea Benton Frank's books about South Carolina

[@carlaevenson5121]

All Nora Roberts! She is such a good writer. One of my favorites❤

[@dawnmuller8987]

You and I like the same authors. Here’s my short list: All the Light We Cannot See ( now on Netflix), The Plum Tree ( WW2 from the avg German citizen), Sarah’s Key ( unearthed a hidden event in Vichy French Govt), all liked The Midwife’s Revolt ( early america). Happy reading. Also consider the podcast, from the front porch and listen for Susie’s suggestions.

[@valeriekneitinger408]

All the Light We Cannot See was excellent!

[@Prezlsc]

Yes on all the light we cannot see!

[@leeannosaurus]

"Because my kids love to argue with each other" Now that's smart! Working with their strengths! love it lol

[@rachelezzell4488]

Brodie and Brock Theone (WWII and after) have been a new love of mine. I also really like anything by Lynn Austin (historical fiction in tons of time periods), and Connilyn Cossette. Her books are the only ones that make me laugh and cry out loud (Biblical Fiction). These authors are really good at developing real and believable characters that you care for and that have realistic flaws and struggles.

[@MelissaOHair-bk3ys]

as someone who does not like to read or watch anything heavy or emotional i have enjoyed reading the Gerald Durrell books. The corfu trilogy is so wonderfull ive just started it for the second time. Its laugh out loud funny. anyone who love animals would find it a lovely read. Anything by James Harriot is also perfect for animal lovers. I suggest both authors to anyone who want a light charming read. both are set in the early- mid 1900s and both are british but still very readable.

[@rhoawanmoonstone3539]

The TV series is wonderful

[@reneemorgan9320]

@@rhoawanmoonstone3539 I was just going to say that! One of my favorites on PBS!

[@beealll3475]

I have always been a ferocious reader and I loved Kristen Hannah’s “The Nightingale”. She writes really meaty books you can sink your mind into. I hope you have read “The Winter Garden”. I have read all her books and “The Winter Garden” is my absolute favorite. Happy Winter Reading Jess❤️

[@angelicatitus]

Perhaps you meant voracious.

[@beealll3475]

@@angelicatitus No, I meant ferocious. I become animalistic when I find an author who writes meaty books I can sink my brain into. That book is never enough so, I have to go back to the authors first book and read every one they have ever written. The progression of their writing is always very interesting. Voracious or insatiable doesn’t quite define my love of a good book.

[@margomiller1988]

The nightingale was one of my-favorites. Other great historical fiction around WWII includes, All the light we cannot see, The Guernsey literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, several titles by Ken Follett. I love his medieval historical fiction series. Other great historical fiction is by Bernard Cornwall, and CJ Samson

[@cminear4012]

If you haven't read Wendell Berry, a farmer/poet, you would probably love his novel "Jayber Crow". It's historical fiction (not WWII though) but his writing is beautiful and his love for the land seems like it would really resonate with you. Highly recommend. And the guy who read the audiobook is terrific.

[@tashap5144]

I just got Jayber Crow on audible included with membership. This is the 3rd mention of that book lately, I think it's a sign!

[@taragrace3705]

You may like the rose Gardner wishes and and mystery series. There is also a few series that branch off and they are all really great! It’s about two sisters and they end up having a greenhouse, nursery and landscaping business while the one sister also gets pulled into the crime underworlds. So good!!

[@juliavillanueva278]

The Story of Us is a really heart wrenching but well written war era book. Clan of the Cave Bear is an amazing series as well. It's set in prehistoric times, but is so well written that you don't feel that.

[@user-qw9ep8hu1i]

"All the Light We Cannot See" Anthony Doerr is phenomenal, and its now a series. It's hard because it presents the rise of Hitler and the complacency that allowed that all to happen. But also the sprit of the resistance. Such a great read. I so wanted to be in a book club when I was reading it. I know what you mean about the isolation, I always want to discuss books I read.

[@emicolove]

“Howl’s moving castle” is my favorite. And Studio Ghibli made their own film version which is excellent as well.

[@LifeStirredUp]

I love the In Death series by J.D. Robb, a pseudonym of Nora Roberts. There are about 50 books so far! Eve Dallas and her billionaire husband Roarke, solve homicides in 21st century New York.

[@ErinCrooks-vw3ig]

Wild by Cheryl Strayed and The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Annie Burrows and Mary Ann Shaffer. Both have also been made into pretty good movies, too.

[@Wolf-E-Romeo]

I just want to put this out there for those that dont know- because i didn't. (And i have yet to finish the entire video yet, its just something on my mind i want to share.) That check your local library and see if they have an online catalog of audiobooks. I have to have a book while im sleeping or im left to my own thoughts, and for awhile i thought audible was the only way to get audiobooks (or buy the set right out which is SUPER expensive, or checking out a physical set at the library.) But i learned my library is in partnership with an online audiobook place, and you can checkout audibooks online just like checking out a physical copy. Except you dont have to deal with all the CDs and such. Libraries are really a great resource. And to those that are in between cities/live in the county and you are unable to get a library card (for free) im sorry. :( being in that position really sucks.

[@heatherpfeil2939]

Libraries are amazing underutilized resource. Chat with your librarians as well!

[@MissBetsyLu]

I'm thinking of donating all my gardening and homesteading books. Preparing for tiny house, all this stuff won't fit. And I can always go and check them out.. anyone in the state can read them. Blessings everyone everywhere and always.

[@zoeylackie7346]

Currently, my husband and I are listening to the Stormlight Archives series by Brandon Sanderson. He’s a fantastic fantasy writer. Long series, but it’s so gripping once you really get into it. Stand-alone novel: A Man Called Ove by Frederick Backman. Such a funny, but touching book.

[@mistycherie]

Love Stormlight Archives series too!

[@shelliekneese5305]

Love Brandon Sanderson! Elantris is a good stand-alone novel of his if you want to get a feel for his writing. Dystopian, but the author doesn't give you all the information up front and brings you along in trying to figure out what's wrong.

[@katiecascone2493]

my favorite historical fiction was Pompeii, and my favorite recent homestead novel is called "Earthed". If you work a job off your homestead you can relate to this woman's memoire pouring her soul and taking out her stress through the garden, and her headspace while in the weeds.

[@alikatzcreations]

Neil Gaiman reads his own books and he is wonderful at weaving a story. Two of my favorites by him are The Ocean at the End of the Lane and Coraline. My all time favorite book is Rebecca by Daphne DuMaurier, just the first few sentences will grab you. I’ve read all of her books. James Herriot, All Creatures Great and Small series. Bless me Ultima by Rudolfo Anaya, a story of a boy and his grandmother with lots of Mexican folklore. Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs and the subsequent books are great fun, full of fantastical characters. The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Aliix E Harrow is a time travel, odd fantasy of a young girl.

[@vickiblizzard1001]

I loved The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman - such a wonderful story! I also loved The Ten Thousand Doors of January, but I loved her second book, The Once and Future Witches, even more. I started her third book, Starling House, a few weeks ago, and while it is definitely good so far, I've been having strange dreams--not quite nightmares--about houses, so I put it in time out for a bit.

[@alikatzcreations]

@@vickiblizzard1001 I loved the Graveyard Book and have put a hold in for Once & Future…so many good books out there! Have you read What the Lady’s Maid Knew by EE Holmes? It’s like Bridgestone/bad guy meets Magic/good guy.

[@vickiblizzard1001]

@@alikatzcreations I have not, but I will look into it. You're gonna love The Once and Future Witches!

[@queenizzy01]

I read Ultima in a high school English class I was in! It was a great read

[@sarahgoninan3124]

I love the black jewels series by Anne Bishop. It's fantasy in a matriarchal society and has a lot of magic elements mixed with gardening and so many layers that I can't explain here. But it's amazing! I've listened to them on audio and in paper form several times!

[@hillemoore]

I recently finished the Wingfeather Saga on audiobook. It’s a children’s fantasy series and even though I’m 31 I really enjoyed it. The author is Christian so there’s a lot of Biblical influence in the story. Your kids would probably enjoy this series too.

[@freeomelettefarm]

Love the Wingfeather Saga

[@hillemoore]

Yes! It’s so epic ❤️

[@channing7]

I think you would really love some of these: -Delirium Series: Lauren Oliver -Divergent: Veronia Roth -The Giver of Stars: Jojo Moyes -Circe: Madeline Miller -Educated: Tara Westover -Rockton & Cainsville Series: Kelley Armstrong

[@cindylcooley]

If you really want something different to read, try The Cottage Tales of Beatrix Potter by Susan Wittig Albert, which is a series of cozy mysteries loosely based on the historical life of Beatrix Potter (author/creator of Peter Rabbit). There is an innocence and sweetness about them that sucked me in, and kept me reading all 8 books in the series. Enjoy!

[@Romans828girl]

I am really enjoying the China Bayles series by Susan Wittig Albert. It's sort of a Murder She Wrote concept. China owns an herb shop - and grows a lot of the herbs in her own garden out back - but she keeps walking into murder mysteries. The writing is really good and the dialogue is clever. There are recipes here and there, and I feel like I should have a notebook beside me to take notes on the tidbits about growing plants (I'm a newbie gardener). I even love the titles in the series: they all have plants in them. Rosemary Remembered. Rueful Death. Love Lies Bleeding.

[@cindylcooley]

@@Romans828girl I love her writing too! You know, I've got that series sitting on my bookshelf. You've inspired me to pull them out and start reading them!

[@Jules1280]

Hi Jess & Miah!! The BEST audiobooks I have listened to is the complete Harry Potter Series. My daughter was to young at the time when the movies came out and so we checked out the audiobooks from the library after she was old enough to appreciate the audiobooks. We have watched the movies after listening to the audiobooks, we much prefer the books to the movies. The narrator is amazing! The narrator is Jim Dale. Love, Light and Blessings to all! Cheers!

[@alicepettit164]

Best narration ever. Was slow to read Potter books but tried audio and was enthralled. Great family listening.

[@destinykay397]

I'm currently in the middle of the Earth's Children series (more commonly known as Clan of the Cavebear from the 80s movie that does not do the novel justice). I think you'd LOVE them. The descriptions this author uses are stellar. There are a lot of plant descriptions and medicinal uses as well, Jean M. Auel really did a tremendous amount of research and it shows. There are a lot of different survival "what would you do" situations and just great writing about the earth during Neanderthal times. If you're unsure of what the series is about it follows an orphaned human child named Ayla who is then adopted by a Neanderthal clan and raised like them. As she gets older she ends up having to leave them and searches for people like her to live with. Just a trigger warning for some people there is SA in the first novel (I'm in the middle of the 4th so I can't attest to the later novels), and the series does have a spattering of descriptive spicy moments as well. Honestly though I absolutely adore this series, very descriptive and well written, amazing world and character building, and I've absolutely learned many new things because of these novels. 😊

[@courtneysorensen1004]

I loved the clan of the cave bear series!

[@TheJaymarcyhigley]

Historical fiction is also my favorite! And Dickens, and Jane Austen style!!!

[@bethany3797]

1. Secrets of a Charmed Life and The Girl in the Glass by Susan Messer 2. Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson 3. If I Run trilogy by Terri Blackstock 4. The World that We Knew by Alice Hoffman 5. Daughter by Jane Shemilt 6. The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris That's all I can think of right now lol Kristin Hannah is a good one for me too!!! I also love Dee Henderson, but she is more mystery/cold case books

[@valeriekneitinger408]

We have similar taste in books. I loved your 2, 5 & 6, and will use your1, 3 & 4 as recommendations

[@kaz1388]

Try The Dovekeepers by Alice Hoffman. A great book

[@caitegraceify]

The bear and the nightingale, the whole series, entangled life and endless forms

[@jasminet6367]

The Fifth Season by NK Jemison is a brilliantly written post apocalyptic trilogy where the world kind of regularly ends every few decades or so (the fifth season) very dark, I had to take a break when I had my daughter. Couldn’t read it with her in my arms. But so well written.

[@TheCaitSD]

Yes, was going to recommend The Broken Earth trilogy too!

[@birdsongvalley]

I tried to read this one but just couldn't focus on it. Perhaps I should give it another go

[@ts7894]

I really enjoy Ruta Sepetys. She writes historical fiction. Salt to the Sea was wonderful. Also, The Night Trilogy by Elie Wiesel was so powerful.

[@KaitlynConnelly-tp3jv]

My sister told me to read “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah Maas I’m waiting to read that later this month. Also if you’ve never read “Ghosts of the Carolina Coasts” by Terrance Zepke it’s fun to read.

[@catharinab8860]

Sarah J Maas destroys lives with her writing. I’ve got everything she’s written, you do become obsessed in the best way!

[@janelleroads6011]

I crochet also. I'd love a little coffee and crochet klatch with you and other crocheters. You could talk about your dreams for next year and we could listen while we all stitch away.❤

[@chrishughson1]

I can personally recommend two books that World War II based fiction that are excellent. My favorite of the two is “The Guernsey Library and Potato Peel Society” by Mary Ann Shaffer. It was made into a beautiful movie in 2018. (I’ve watched the movie at least 3 times.) Another WWII based novel is “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr. It has been made into a Netflix limited series released just this year. Enjoyable and captivating reads. I’m sure both must be available in audio as well. Enjoy!!

[@TheCaitSD]

The audiobook for Guernsey is great!

[@ourhomesteadclassroom]

I also loved All the Light We Cannot See! I read it years ago and just realized they turned it into a miniseries when I went to Google to remind myself of the author's name.

[@carlaevenson5121]

Oh man I’ve been watching all the light we cannot see and did not know it was a book! I will defiantly be reading that!!

[@Sky-Child]

Both excellent. +1

[@sarahoram9616]

Two recent favorites: The Baker's Secret and The Keeper of Stars. LOVED both. Both made me cry heavily.

[@squintygnatbug]

I really loved "The Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek" and "The Bookwomans Daughter". They are traveling Librarians and books impact their lives in massive ways. Both available as audio books.

[@leannei.7732]

Yes! I loved these, too. Highly recommend.

[@joycepinkerton7519]

I loved Bookwoman but didn’t realize there was a sequel. Definitely putting it on my list! Thanks!!

[@karenjackson6884]

I loved this book and just added the 2nd one to my Christmas list!

[@jeanrichards8042]

I just listened to both of these after finding out there was a sequel and having listened to the 1st one a while ago. I loved the 1st b/c it made me think... and I also discovered that there really were (maybe still are) blue people. Such amazing writing though and highly recommend both books!

[@brandykoldewey5917]

Jess - my 2024 seed catalogs have started to trickle in in the mail!!! I love getting them to look at and dream just like you! My husband was like "Already? You just got the garden ready for the winter!" I live in Southern Idaho and the winters here are cold and we usually get snow. This year its been late getting here. Sorry, just got them and wanted to share with someone who'd understand! Thank you so much for your channels and all you share!

[@brookschmitz818]

Book recommendations: Night Circus- wonderfully written and a beautiful love story. Already listed above.😊 Dies the fire by M.S.Stirling - post apocalyptic story. First few books are set in the Pacific Northwest, then the east coast is incorporated. All combustion stops working and the world is launched back into the Middle Ages. Thank you to everyone for the lovely recommendations, I am always looking for good books😊

[@littleblessingshomestead5138]

I'm sure you probably have heard of of not read them also, but the Left Behind series really had me imagining. I like doing the same... When I was a kid it was the boxcar children and then it was the kids series of left behind. I couldn't get enough. Lol.

[@sandrainontario6710]

If you need a break from the heavy stuff sometimes, the author Sir Terry Pratchett wrote absolutely hilarious novels combining political and social satire in an imaginary world. The audiobooks based on his books are wonderfully done. I have all of his books which sure helped me through the first wave of covid. along with Maeve Binchy of course who makes the characters in her books so real and lovable that you hate to come to the end of the book.

[@Romans828girl]

The Pratchett books are quoted regularly in our house. I think we have all of them, and they get reread frequently. They are wonderful.

[@Romans828girl]

My husband's Lord Vetinari impressions are unnerving - and his Igor is hysterical.

[@pattispatch3902]

❤❤❤ Sir Pterry!

[@plantswoman]

I highly recommend, "A Soldier of the Great War" by Mark Helprin. It's WW1 not WW2, but I think you may get lost in it, as I did. It is one of my all-time favorites. Happy Reading, Jess!

[@stephanieg5195]

‘Saving Cee Cee Honeycutt’ by Beth Hoffman Such a great novel! I have listened to books, audiobooks, for years, now like you said, it’s a great way to help take your mind off tedious chores!

[@tashap5144]

That was a good audio experience too. I forgot about this book, so good!

[@brennahill5748]

Lots of people have already mentioned it but outlander would be great for imagining what if scenarios. Diana spends so much time showing us day to day life of medicine and food preservation. And in later books they come to America ,specifically to the Carolinas so thats fun. They can be gory and racey but they are so worth it.

[@debsenritchedrefuge603]

Millie Copper has a series "Havoc in Wyoming" being the first book that is also on Audio, that is Narrated well, that is around surviving in recent times & Apocalypse type era.. Being prepared with Faith Led Learning & Living, etc.. She is in a circle of friends I'm involved with on KZbin & Zoom for Bible studies and living wholesome lives! Faith Led Living... This was a great idea for sharing, thanks Jess.. Have a Blessed week, everyone!

[@debsenritchedrefuge603]

Millie Copper has 26 books in this series or ones connected to this! She is an incredible author, historian and Godly Woman!

[@kathleensmith608]

Hi Jess. Just had to chime in about 2 of your books. My book club read both of them this year(The Nightingale and the Kitchen Front. Loved them both so much❤Love your channel and your family so much. And your talks almost always bring me to a swelled heart and a few tears. Your farm brings me such joy. I grew up on a dairy farm and followed my dad and uncles everywhere. I’ve returned to the garden since following you years ago (and I have your books)and found joy. By the way, I just turned 73 and have come to realize that its just the beginning. Thank you

[@pinkyfromhaughtfarms6550]

I am re-reading the wheel of time series. I tend to every few years. They are a lot to invest in because there's so much material, but so worth it if you are a voracious reader. (If you've seen the Amazon series, don't hold it against the books. They are much better and less smutty)

[@sharonknorr1106]

I have read them all as well. Very good, but very dense and so many characters to keep track of. It was hard to wait several years for each new one because I would need a recap before I started again. Don't know how anyone who has not read them can keep track of what is going on in the Amazon series - so much is compressed and not really explained.

[@pinkyfromhaughtfarms6550]

@sharonknorr1106 Yes! And they've changed so many key parts in the show. I consider it (very) loosely based on the books

[@Romans828girl]

The books are always better than the movies or series. Always.

[@mistycherie]

Love this book series, have read the whole set a few times over the years. The Amazon show only has names/places and general concepts the same - they basically rewrote the story for the show (and not in a good way in my opinion).

[@pinkyfromhaughtfarms6550]

@@mistycherie I agree!

[@sarahday5861]

I've enjoyed the October Days series by Seanan McGuire. Also the Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs. Both are urban fantasy. Worldly stuff in there but good stories & good triumphs over evil. And 1632 series by Eric Flint - keep to the earlier ones.

[@joycepinkerton7519]

Loved the Mercy Thompson series! Anything by Patricia Briggs 👍

[@virginiaallisonpeck2517]

Thanks everyone for all the good recommendations. I love Cave of the Clan Bear series. I hope that’s right. Love and peace to all ❤️🎚🕊🙏🏼🦋🌺🌸🌼🌹🌻

[@tishgaines8835]

I do, too! I think it’s a big reason I became a nurse.

[@keeshields9973]

I LOVED those! I think I might read them again now

[@user-wf6io6dk4t]

Totally agree Barbara Kingsolver is awesome beginning with The Bean Trees. Currently reading The Lost Husband by Catherine Center. Involving goats, farming, a fierce mom and interesting relationships - a great read!

[@happily_ever_april]

I'm a romance reader but books with an absolute fervor right now is Fourth wing/iron flame by Rebecca yarros. they brought back in person Midnight release parties for it which I think is cool whether you're into the book or not.

[@jonescreekfarm9084]

My best friend just told me about this book series and I have it waiting for me in my Amazon wish list. :-)

[@catharinab8860]

I loved Fourth wing and I do have Iron Flame but I haven’t started on it yet… I’m saving it for a special occation,maybe this sunday 😊

[@jonescreekfarm9084]

It is the post epic set of books ever! It’s a little slow at first. Keep reading until she touches the standing stones and goes back in time. Then you will be hooked! But give it a chance until then! Man I love these books so so much!!

[@thepolishpotager]

Ooohhh...."All The Light We Cannot See" and "The Last Thing He Told Me" were both fantastic!

[@terrismith4019]

I love audiobooks; perfect when hands are busy. Book series I love the audiobook versions of: Louise Penny’s “Inspector Gamache” series; exquisite writing and characters you’ll want to hang out and have conversations with, read in order. Another is Jacqueline Winspear’s “Maisie Dobbs” series, which is about a woman private inspector building her business in the aftermath of the First World War. She is a gentle soul with a fierce spirit - and again, the writing is captivating and should be read in order. And both series are read by fabulous narrators!

[@anitalindsey4166]

I couldn’t agree more! Both of the series are amazing!!! The inspector Gamache series starts out a little slow but hang with it, it is incredibly gripping! Don’t recommend the tv series at all. Loved masie dobbs as well-fascinating ww1 and ww2 era themes!!

[@amylivingston458]

❤

[@user-gz2qh1ie8d]

Living on a farm and prepping for winter was what I grew up with. So I have always prepped for winter. Now I just prep for longer. Living in the north that is normal for alot of rural people. Prepping has gotten alot new connotation in the last 15 to 20 years.