What is the second favorite thing for list makers to do if they’re not making a list? Reading a list! Ok, well, maybe that’s the third favorite thing cause checking off lists is right up there with making a list. But for flow and purposes of this post can we agree reading and checking off lists are one and the same đŸ˜‰ My ‘upholder’ daughter is cringing if she’s reading this post! “What? Mom, {be sure to add the correct amount of inflection into that ‘mom’} you can’t make up rules like that!” Poor thing ~ it’s hard having a rebel for a mom and for a husband!
But I digress – you’re here for the list, right?
General Fiction
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
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Timely. Scary. And unfortunately, based on a true occurrence.
My Brilliant Friend and The Story of a New Name by Elena Ferrante
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It took me awhile to finally pick up the first in the Neapolitan quintet, but oh my goodness when I finally read My Brilliant Friend, I could totally see why these books were taking the world by storm. Reading this quintet is a completely immersive experience. Some of the best storytelling I’ve ever read.
State of Wonder by Ann Patchett
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My first Ann Patchett book and definitely will not be my last.
The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend by Katarina Bivald
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Lovely, feel-good book about those who love books. Had me laughing, crying and sometimes both at the same time. Loved it!
Science Fiction
by Justin Cronin
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I resisted reading this one for so long because I’d read it was about vampires. I’ve been over vampires since before vampires were even a thing, so I really didn’t want a ‘vampire’ novel. This is more end-of-the-world-as-we-know-it plague kind-of book. And phenomenal.
Thrillers
The Kept Woman by Karin Slaughter
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Karin Slaughter is one of those authors I automatically buy. She never fails to live up to the hype, and I’m always impressed with the detail and focus she brings to crimes against women.
The Guest Room by Chris Bohjilian
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Another author I automatically buy. Chris Bohjilian’s novels are in that same social consciousness category as Jodi Picoult’s. Both authors tackle a current issue in each of their books with deft and precision.
What are some of your favorite reads from 2016?
Image Sources:
Post Header Image: Aliis Sinisalu
Book Cover Images: Goodreads