Winter Reading Recommendations

It’s rare we get to sit down and enjoy a good book or two these days. We’re not going to lie, parenthood and running a business online are quite demanding. But in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s super important to carve out some time to dive into a good book. 

I always prefer physical books to get away from a screen. I love the smell, touch and feel of a book and are lucky enough to have the legendary bookstore, Gerturde and Alic on my doorstep.  There’s been some great reads this winter and wanted to share some captivating reads that span genres from thrilling crime fiction to insightful self-improvement and eye-opening examinations of health in modern society. Here’s a look at what’s on my reading list:

1. Dragon’s Back by AC Edwards

“A woman wants her errant husband tracked, an undocumented Cambodian girl is found dead, the city’s two biggest criminal societies vie for power, a loan shark wants his money back, and a corrupt cop is pulling strings from the shadows. It’s just another day in Hong Kong.”

AC Edwards is a local Aussie author and in this book he takes us on a gritty journey through the underbelly of Hong Kong in “Dragon’s Back.” This crime thriller weaves a complex narrative filled with suspense, intrigue, and multifaceted characters. The vivid portrayal of Hong Kong’s dark side keeps us on the edge of our seats, making it a hard book to put down. Edwards’ ability to intertwine multiple storylines seamlessly is a testament to his mastery of the genre.

2. Steven Bartlett – Diary of a CEO

“Covers the fundamental laws that will ensure excellence. They are rooted in psychology and behavioral science, are based on the wisdom of tens of thousands of people I’ve surveyed across every continent and age group, and of course, drawn from the conversations I’ve had on my chart-topping podcast with the world’s most successful people.”

Steven Bartlett, the mastermind behind the wildly popular “Diary of a CEO” podcast, shares his profound insights on achieving excellence in this compelling read. Bartlett delves into the psychological and behavioral science principles that underpin success. Drawing from extensive surveys and conversations with top achievers worldwide, this book offers practical advice and timeless wisdom. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a professional, or someone striving for personal growth, Bartlett’s insights are both inspiring and actionable.

3. Gabor Maté – The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture

“A book that changes everything – from the legendary Dr. Gabor Maté. ‘It all starts with waking up… to what our bodies are expressing and our minds are suppressing.’”

In “The Myth of Normal,” Dr. Gabor Maté challenges our understanding of health and illness in modern Western society. With alarming statistics highlighting the rise in mental illness and chronic diseases, Maté urges us to reconsider what we deem ‘normal’ in terms of health. His book emphasises the profound connection between trauma, chronic illness, and societal norms, urging us to become more attuned to our bodies and minds. Covering ADHD, childhood trauma and more, Maté’s blend of personal anecdotes, scientific research, and compassionate storytelling makes this book a transformative read for anyone interested in holistic health and healing.

Bonus tip you can see Gabor in person, in Sydney in 2025… Can not wait for this.

So whether you’re looking for a gritty thriller, actionable self-improvement tips for you and your business, or a profound exploration of health, these titles are sure to captivate and inspire. Happy reading!