Best Books Read in 2014

Something I’ve really been enjoying over the last few years is tracking the number of books I read. It’s a nice way to keep tabs on what I have read, as well as look back each year on the great (and sometimes not so great) books. Similar to last year I’m recapping my favorite books read in 2014! In no particular order:

1. The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters

I was drawn to this book thanks to a juicy plot. The book turned out to be nothing like I thought it would be and I was captivated from the very first page. Wonderfully written and addictive until the very last line.

2. The Body Book by Cameron Diaz

I laughed the first time I heard that this actress had published a book on health. But Cameron seriously knows her stuff. So much of this book just made things click for me. Cameron drives home the importance of a healthy lifestyle, and gives you the tools to create one without drastic changes. This is a great book to have on your shelf to read whenever you need a little healthy motivation.

3. Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

I laughed out loud so much while reading this book! It’s a quick read thanks to a great plot and interesting characters.

4. A Murder at Rosamund’s Gate by Susanna Calkins

A fantastic historical mystery written by a Chicagoan author. It’s sequel, From the Charred Remains, is just as amazing.

5. It Starts with Food by Dallas and Melissa Hartwig

It seems like a fad diet: no grains, dairy, legumes, sugar, processed food or alcohol. But when I went Whole 30 back in November I was amazed at how great I felt. Similar to The Body Book, a lot of the science in this book simply makes perfect sense. Everyone has to find the foods that work for them, however I’ve noticed a big difference in how I feel by incorporating the Whole 30 principles into my eating habits.