Book Shelf
Photo by Shiromani Kant on Unsplash
Ready to dive into a world of captivating reads that not only satisfy your wanderlust but also nurture your personal and professional growth? Welcome to our handpicked bookshelf, where the magic of wellness, travel, expat tales, and self-improvement come together.
From personal favorites to works by expat authors we’re tight with, this collection has it all. And guess what? You can enjoy these gems through good old books or the soothing embrace of audio.
Worth Reading
Discover our collection of timeless treasures that have earned their spot among our top picks.
Adventure Escapes
Explore the world through captivating travel narratives and guides that kindle your wanderlust.
Getaway Reads
Find the perfect companions for your travels by plane, train, laying on the beach or wherever your wanderlust takes you.
Mindful Living & Self-Care
Discover a collection of books that promote mindful living, holistic well-being, self-care practices, and personal growth.
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Postcards from the Road
Switzerland Uncovered: 16 Tidbits About the Land of Alpine Splendor
Unveil the secrets of Switzerland, a land of Alpine splendor and timeless charm. Explore 16 captivating tidbits encompassing its majestic mountains, innovative prowess, and cultural heritage. Discover the essence of Switzerland, where the beauty of the Alps meets a rich tapestry of history and innovation.
Sweden Uncovered: 16 Tidbits About the Land of Innovation and Nature
Embark on a journey to discover Sweden’s blend of innovation and nature. Uncover 14 intriguing tidbits, from its pioneering spirit to the captivating wilderness. Explore the essence of Sweden, where innovation thrives amidst the beauty of its natural landscapes.
Wales Uncovered: 14 Tidbits About the Land of Ancient Castles
Unveil the wonders of Wales, a land adorned with ancient castles and tales of old. Explore 14 fascinating tidbits that illuminate this realm’s rich heritage and dramatic landscapes. From medieval fortresses to breathtaking scenery, immerse yourself in the essence of Wales. Discover Welsh culture, history, and more as we journey through this enchanting land.
Life Diverted
Author: Kaylie Kay
Carmen, Kate, and Rachel stood atop Mount Fuji, proclaiming 2020 as their year of adventure. Little did they know that a pandemic would alter their plans. With the aviation industry disrupted, their journeys shifted from distant lands to personal exploration. Kate’s positivity, Rachel’s pilot husband absence, and Carmen’s self-reinvention were tested. The pandemic prompted soul-searching: “Who am I beyond my job?” Amid turbulence, they reimagined paths, discovering resilience and transformation in unexpected circumstances.
Available on Amazon.
The Rabbit Hutch
Author: Tess Gunty
Nestled in Vacca Vale, Indiana’s low-cost housing, The Rabbit Hutch is home to a diverse ensemble—Blandine, ethereal and brilliant, stands out. Among her neighbors are an online obituary writer, secretive mother, and determined rodent-battler. Over one sweltering July week, their lives interlace. Yearning for connection and meaning, they confront loneliness and entrapment. With fierce beauty and humor, “The Rabbit Hutch” delves into contemporary America, probing freedom’s pursuit. Amidst unexpected acts, paths irreversibly shift, leaving a haunting exploration of existence.
Available on Amazon.
Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords, and Indiebound.
Times New Roman
How We Quit Our Jobs, Gave Away Our Stuff & Moved to Italy
Author: Martha Miller
“Times New Roman” chronicles a real-life pursuit of lifelong dreams—living abroad, embracing foreign cultures, obtaining education, and shifting careers. Delve into the plan’s intricacies, decision-making process, and self-funded journey. Set against this backdrop, the book immerses you in modern life within Rome. Through their experiences, the authors uncover the art of adapting—learning to live, eat, shop, cook, and dress like the locals. Unexpectedly, they absorb Italian behaviors, fostering a unique perspective on cultural integration and self-discovery.
The Saint, The Surfer and The CEO
Author: Robin Sharma
Within this extraordinary book, you will discover practical yet powerful processes to re-create your life and reconnect with your best self. You will truly enjoy meeting the 3 key people who help Jack Valentine, the book’s hero: First, in Rome, where he meets ‘the Saint’. Then on a beach in Hawaii Jack is introduced to ‘the Surfer’. And finally in New York City, he encounters ‘the CEO’.
Available on Amazon.
Nada
Author: Carmen Laforet
Carmen Laforet’s significant work, “Nada,” is a literary cornerstone in post-Civil War Spain. Following a young orphan’s journey from a small town to war-ravaged Barcelona, the narrative echoes the author’s life. Andrea, the protagonist, befriends affluent peers in her genteel poverty on Calle de Aribau. As she grows, unsettling family truths surface, including her superstitious aunt, artistic uncle, and enigmatic aunt’s wife, Gloria. Edith Grossman’s translation captures vivid imagery and subtle humor, while Mario Vargas Llosa’s Introduction delves into Franco-era portrayal. Andrea’s transformative journey unveils Laforet’s exploration of the human condition, reasserting “Nada” as a European literary gem.
Available on Amazon.
Lonely Planet Spain
Lonely Planet’s comprehensive guide to Spain offers an extensive exploration of the country’s highlights, both popular and lesser-known. From admiring Gaudi’s masterpieces in Barcelona to immersing in Moorish history at the Alhambra and savoring tapas nationwide, this guide is your reliable companion.
Coverage spans Madrid, Barcelona, Catalonia, Aragon, Santiago de Compostela, Seville, Granada, Andalucia, Valencia, the Balearic Islands, and beyond.
Available on Amazon.
The Best of Europe 2024
Experience the pinnacle of European art, landmarks, and cuisine with Rick Steves Best of Europe. Get expert insights on worthwhile experiences, whether you’re in England, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, or Switzerland. From one to four-day itineraries, Rick provides insider advice to beat the crowds, navigate attractions, and delve into local culture. Uncover the finest neighborhoods, museums, and flavors, while mastering trip planning, packing, accommodations, and transportation. With over 100 vivid maps and photos, this guide covers London, Paris, Provence, Barcelona, Rome, the Swiss Alps, Berlin, and more, promising an unforgettable European journey.
Available on Amazon.
The Travel Book
Embark on a global adventure with “The Travel Book” by The Lonely Planet. Discover the world’s countries anew in its fourth edition, offering fresh profiles packed with insights on ideal visit times, must-see attractions, cultural immersion through film, music, cuisine, and more. Captivating imagery showcases diverse cultures, from portraits to landscapes and vibrant street scenes, complemented by vibrant maps. This premium 416-page hardback treasure promises to ignite wanderlust and serves as a remarkable gift for the next generation of explorers.
Available on Amazon.
Rick Steves: Europe Through the Back Door
Let Rick Steves be your Europe travel mentor. In “Rick Steves Europe Through the Back Door,” he shares the art of crafting efficient itineraries, packing wisely, finding budget-friendly accommodations and dining spots, navigating transportation smoothly, avoiding tourist traps, overcoming language barriers, immersing in local culture, and maximizing your travel budget. With over 40 years of exploration, Rick’s guide is a culmination of expertise that guarantees stress-free planning. Learn these skills, enhance your adventure, and save money while experiencing the best of Europe.
Available on Amazon.
Driving Over Lemons
Author: Chris Stewart
Meet Chris Stewart, the eternal optimist, who impulsively purchases a peasant farm in Spain, along with the farmer and a host of challenges like lack of water, electricity, and a bridge. Undeterred, Chris and his wife Ana, who’ve invested everything in their farm, navigate the hurdles and even acquire a flock of sheep. “Driving Over Lemons” is a delightful, humor-laden narrative that captures the essence of their Andalucian mountain farm journey, leaving you charmed and inspired by their unbreakable spirit.
Available on Amazon.
Ditched
Author: Kaylie Kay
Get ready for a thrilling aviation tale! Flight Manager Julie Margot is about to face a wild twist: a “Ditching” on the waters of North Hudson Bay. Imagine landing a plane on water! Join Julie and her crew as they navigate this heart-pounding adventure, using their training to set up camp on the shore while waiting for rescue. But that’s not all – amidst the chaos, a new family forms, and even Julie can’t resist the pull of ‘caring,’ an emotion she’s tried to avoid. Loneliness vs. connection, survival vs. emotions – will anyone swoop in to rescue Julie from this emotional turbulence?
Available on Amazon.
Cappuccinos, Cupcakes, and a Corpse
Author: Harper Lin
Francesca Amaro returns to her Cape Bay hometown, taking over Antonia’s Italian Café, but her routine takes a lethal turn when she discovers her neighbor’s poisoned body, making her a suspect. Reconnecting with her old high school friend, Matty, the victim’s son, they embark on a mission to uncover the town’s hidden secrets and expose the murderer amidst the picturesque beach town backdrop.
Available on Amazon.
Bad Summer People
Author: Emma Rosenblum
Dive into the intriguing world of “Bad Summer People.” Each year, the urban elite converge, bringing along their families, nannies, and the finest imports. Amidst this playground of privilege, the Parkers and Weinsteins hold court, harboring concealed grudges and secrets. Rachel Woolf, the lone single amidst the couples, seeks her match among them, and as the season unfolds, a shocking discovery under the boardwalk unravels the tranquil facade, igniting a summer of intrigue and mystery.
Available on Amazon.
Granny on Board
Author: Harper Lin
Former CIA operative Barbara Gold’s 71st birthday gift from Octavian—an unexpected seniors’ cruise—takes an unexpected turn. Barbara faces turbulence as she clashes with Georgina Branch and her cunning group. Amid the cruise’s tranquility, suspicion arises when a passenger goes overboard. Drawing on her ex-CIA skills, Barbara targets Georgina’s clique, navigating friendship and danger to uncover the truth behind the alleged “accidental” drowning. Stranded on the ship, Barbara strives to safeguard Octavian while revealing hidden secrets.
Available on Amazon.
When Life Gives You Lululemons
Author: Lauren Weisberger
Greenwich, Connecticut welcomes you to a world of pristine lawns and shimmering women. Post-Miranda Priestly, Emily Charlton resists suburban life while facing a Hollywood career decline. Amidst whispers about a scandalous new neighbor, Emily sees a comeback opportunity with Karolina Hartwell. Yet, Greenwich’s dynamics prove alien. United with Miriam, a former attorney turned suburban mom, they navigate complexities to regain favor. Lauren Weisberger’s sharp wit blends style and substance, with an unexpected ally—Miranda Priestly—underscoring that success demands both.
Available on Amazon.
Mindful Metamorphosis
Author: Michele Schalin
“Mindful Metamorphosis” offers a transformative journey to uncover hidden strengths and foster self-love and healing. Drawing from personal battles with anxiety and self-doubt, Michele guides you through pain acceptance, breaking negative thought patterns, and releasing toxicity. Her journey to inner awakening and joy inspires, as she shares techniques for self-love, trauma healing, emotional regulation, and belief transformation. By shedding external validation and embracing authenticity, you gain unshakable inner strength, revolutionizing your self-perception and manifesting your dream life.
Available on Amazon.
Brains at the Border
Author: Lynda Brettle
Brains At The Border takes us on a humorous journey through Lynda Brettle’s unique experiences during her Foreign Office postings spanning two decades in diverse locations, from idyllic paradises to conflict zones. With wit, she shares the ups and downs of expatriate life, shedding light on the daily rewards and challenges encountered by her and her fellow globetrotters. As her life evolves from being single to a wife and mother, she eventually settles on Spain’s Costa Blanca, where hilarity ensues with the influx of Brits aiming to “live the dream” without their brains, offering a jaw-dropping glimpse into expat life on the border of reality and hilarity.
Available on Amazon.
On the LookOUT – for the better half
Author: Diana Mereu
A book dedicated to those who seek and to those who discover.
Captivating, engaging and motivational – the book combines the romantic sarcasm of the poems with the pragmatic approach of today’s reflections. One of those books that will change your life forever for the better by simply answering a fundamental question – “what are you #onthelookout for?”.
Available on Amazon.
Love Your Gut
The Practical Guide to Weight Loss from the Inside Out
Author: Sue Ritchie
Sue Ritchie’s journey from health struggles to vitality highlights resilience. Faced with Hashimoto’s disease, she prioritized change, embracing lifestyle and dietary shifts. Now, she offers a practical guide for holistic health, combining her corporate career, family roles, and alternative health interest. Rooted in her own experience, Ritchie’s story inspires, providing actionable steps to reclaim vitality.
Available on Amazon.
The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari
Author: Robin Sharma
Embark on a transformative journey in the bestselling fable “The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari.” Follow Julian Mantle, a lawyer’s quest for purpose after a heart attack propels him on a spiritual odyssey in India. Inspired by the author’s own search, this step-by-step narrative offers insights for courageous living, balance, and abundance. Encounters with Himalayan gurus reveal keys to joy, mission, discipline, time, relationships, and embracing each day. This tale guides you toward deeper meaning and fulfilling potential.
Available on Amazon.
The Go-Giver
Authors: Bob Burg and John David Mann
Experience the transformative magic of giving through “The Go-Giver”. Follow Joe’s journey to success as he discovers that prioritizing others’ needs and adding value leads to unexpected rewards. Guided by Pindar, he encounters “go-givers” who unveil the Five Laws of Stratospheric Success, unlocking a realm of possibilities. This timeless bestseller embodies the essence of “Give and you shall receive.” A decade of impact showcases the global resonance of being a “go-giver,” empowering readers in business, personal life, and communities. The expanded edition features the parable, Arianna Huffington’s foreword, a new introduction, discussion guide, and author Q&A.
Available on Amazon.
Feng Shui Tips: Home Renovations
Author: S. Lee Wright
In Feng Shui Tips: Home Renovations, S. Lee Wright reveals the secrets for how to avoid the most disastrous mistakes that are always made on construction projects. She guides you through a step-by-step process to help you consciously move forward in the direction of your dreams without the fear or doubt of making nasty mistakes that will result in either a loss of money, a space that does not work, or a stress level that destroys your well-being.
Available on Amazon.
Feng Shui Tips: Kitchen Renovations
Author: S. Lee Wright
In “Feng Shui Tips: Kitchen Renovations,” Lee offers a fresh perspective on the pivotal kitchen space. Discover how to infuse abundance into your life through mindful kitchen design, applying Feng Shui principles and elemental balance. Renovating your kitchen right the first time is crucial due to costs, and Lee’s DIWY™ (Design-It-With-You™) approach ensures a project that enhances your life with intention.
Available on Amazon.
Feng Shui Tips: Bathroom Renovations
Author: S. Lee Wright
Feng Shui Tips: Bathroom Renovations offers you an opportunity to avoid the most common mistakes during your bathroom renovation, save money and enjoy the design process fully. Bathrooms are the most expensive and dangerous room in the house, so it’s a good idea to get it right the first time!
Available on Amazon.
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success
Author: Deepak Chopra
Deepak Chopra challenges the idea that success requires intense effort or meticulous plans. In this pocket-sized gem, he unveils a secret: aligning with natural laws. Success isn’t about hustle, but syncing with your true nature. Expect well-being, health, relationships, and abundance in harmony with these laws. Overflowing with wisdom and actionable tips, Chopra’s classic guide, now pocket-sized, empowers you with seven principles for swift success in every facet of life. Carry this game-changer and flourish anew.
Available on Amazon.
Self Love 28-day Journal
Author: Claudia Roth
This guided journal aimed at leading you to know who you truly are. It helps you feel less stressed and anxious and to value life more. It will help quiet the mind and allow for free flow writing and contemplation. Using inspirational texts as well assignments will open the gate to your heart and let your “inner voice” come through uncensored, leading you into peace and new awareness.
Available on Amazon.
I AM EVERY WOMAN
written by 15 women from around the world
Trials, Tribulation, Triumphs and Discovery
15 women across the world share how resilience, stoicism, and courage shaped their lives: each bold enough to be brutally honest. Our stories are told courageously and candidly, stripped to the core.
I AM EVERY WOMAN is a compilation of human stories to help and support anyone wanting to make bold changes in their life, or to simply live life more fully.
Available on Amazon.
The Moment of Lift
How Empowering Women Changes the World
Author: Melinda Gates
Discover the transformative force of empowering women in “The Moment of Lift.” This book illuminates how uplifting women leads to global change, narrating compelling stories of empowerment and advocating for equality. Through personal narratives and vivid examples, the author illustrates the profound impact of investing in women’s rights. Unveil the powerful connection between women’s empowerment and societal transformation, gaining insights into a world where everyone rises together.
Available on Amazon.
You Are Awesome
Author: Neil Pasricha
Amidst unprecedented longevity, education, and abundance, our resilience has waned, leaving us fragile. “You Are Awesome” champions resilience, adaptability, and learning in the face of setbacks and anxiety. Learn from post-failure mindset shifts, accelerate learning, curb worry with a 2-minute practice, embrace Untouchable Days, and more. Amidst challenges, remember, you are truly awesome.
Available on Amazon.
The Power of NOW
Author: Eckhart Tolle
The mind’s way of guiding your decisions is sneaky. What you do and how you react to situations is projection from the past. Your conditioning guides your fears; your beliefs influence your emotions. It could be that listening to a certain song triggers tears, they run down your cheeks. Think of them as the result of your mind excavating memories. Whether happy or sad memories, what is happening is that the past is infiltrating the present moment. In this state, your next thought, decision and action will most likely be guided by emotions that may, frankly, belong in the past.
Available on Amazon.
