Here we are just half a month away from the end of the year (howwww??) which means it’s time for some end of the year recaps! And of course I first gotta talk about BOOKS!
2020 was many unpleasant things, but GUYS. It was one of the best reading years I’ve ever had. I read very few books I didn’t just absolutely adore this year. And just??? How did this happen? Not only did I love the majority of the nearly 50 books I read this year, I found a few new TOP favorites of all time! I don’t know what sort of book fairy decided to bless me this year, but LET ME TELL YA. It was a happy year of reading, if nothing else!
Which means OBVIOUSLY I have to flail a bit about my tippity top favorite reads of 2020!
I’ve miraculously kept the list down to 10 but it was HARD. Be proud of me. I’m going to list them in order of when I read them for the sake of my own sanity. (Because listing them from top favorite to least is impossible.) Also, all links lead to the book’s GoodReads page for your convenience so you can add it to your TBR, obviously. Aren’t I nice?
FAVORITE READS OF 2020
Hollow by Kyle Robert Shultz
It is absolutely no secret at all that I am a major fan of Kyle Robert Shultz’s books. I’ve been an rabid fan of his Afterverse series since the beginning and THIS ONE. *clutches heart*
The tagline for this book is literally “It’s time for answers.” And WHEW BOY. Is that accurate. It brought soooo many threads from all the various books crashing down into one mind-blowing EXPLOSION, and even though I read this one all the way back in January I’m still reeling.
I really can’t say much because SO MANY SPOILERS. But this book brought in the feels and cameos and Alice in Wonderland threads (YASSS) and plot twists and epic monsters and YEAH. If you’ve been following along with the Afterverse tales up to this point, THIS ONE IS A MUST.
And if you haven’t WELL THEN. Here’s a link to The Beast of Talesend book #1. You’re welcome.
Read my full review HERE!
To Best the Boys by Mary Weber
I have thoroughly enjoyed all of Mary Weber’s books and was super pumped when she announced this one. But I’m gonna be honest: With that title I was a bit nervous it’d be some sort of campy feminist message shoved down my throat, you know?
WELL. I should have had faith in the beautiful queen that is Mary Weber. The message was GREAT. It handled feminism in the most beautiful way, covering all aspects of the spectrum and respected women who want to be stay at home wives/moms OR those pursuing careers. Seriously, it covered EVERYTHING in such a careful, though-provoking way. It was such a refreshing read and, man, I wish we had more books like THIS.
The message aside, IT WAS JUST A GOOD STORY.
The story follows Rhen, who’s trying to find a cure for a mysterious deadly disease that has just started sweeping through her hometown (lol sounds familiar). It’s a race against the clock…because her own mother is dying from this disease. Unfortunately, Rhen doesn’t have enough equipment or education to get as far as she needs.
Every year Mr. Holmes hosts a race through his grand labyrinth to compete for a scholarship to the all-male university. Cue Rhen’s plan—winning a scholarship would be the key to her finding a cure. Thus she disguises as a boy, drags her poor cousin Seleni into the ruse, and joins the race through the maze!
There was really nothing to not love with this book. It had this whole Victorian style world all interwoven with eerie fantasy elements, the characters were just THE BEST. So dynamic and different and utterly lovable. And I adored the snappy, witty writing style. It sucked me in literally from the first paragraph and kept me hooked all the way through.
This is my favorite Mary Weber book to date and I highly recommend it!
Echo North by Joanna Ruth Meyer
HELLO ONE OF MY NEW FAVORITE BOOKS OF ALL TIME.
How do I even describe this perfectly magical, whimsical, feelsy, utterly stunning read?
First of all, this is an East of the Sun, West of the Moon retelling and just YESSS. We need more of those! There’s also a dash of Tam Lin in there for good measure.
It tells the story of Echo, who can’t fit in due to the scars on her face brought upon by a wolf. But one night when she discovers the same wolf standing guard over her father’s half-frozen body, she must make a choice: Let her father die, or take the wolf’s deal for her to live with him for one year and he will ensure Echo’s father makes it home safely.
Echo, of course, agrees to go with the wolf to his enchanted, rambling house under the mountain that literally has to be seamed back together lest it crumble forever. But there is so much more to this house and the wolf—dark secrets that could cost everything.
I can’t even begin to describe all the amazing things this book holds. Not only does it just have this utterly magical, fairy tale-ish feel, but the characters are completely and wholly endearing. Sweet Echo, who feels like an outcast due to her scars. The heartbreaking and mysterious white wolf. Hal, the adventurous and oh-so charming young man Echo meets during her journeys. Everybody felt so real and raw and full of life.
ALSO. There are book mirrors. As in, books that are mirrors that you can WALK INTO and explore the book’s world and story. RIGHT? RIIIIGHT????? Best. Things. EVER. And I am so sad such things do not actually exist.
The whole story captured me instantly and wouldn’t let go. And the PLOT TWIST. One of the most epic, mind-blowing plot twists EVER.
EVERYTHING WAS AMAZING.
This was such a me book. In fact, I’ve been using it as a comp title for Burning Thorns because it feels extremely similar in terms of style, and just everything I love to write.
JUST READ THIS BOOK. IT WAS E V E R Y T H I N G. <333
Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
I am absolutely cheating because I was going to just list new-to-me books and not rereads buuuut I’M LISTING THIS ONE ANYWAY.
So yes. This was my, erm, 5th time reading HMC, I do believe??? Because hi, hello, I’m Christine Smith and my Howl’s Moving Castle obsession is on the unhealthy side.
For those of you who may not know: HMC is my favorite book. Not like one of my favorites. No, no. MY FAVORITE. Favorite story to ever be created on this earth or any other.
This whimsical, hilarious, utterly wild ride of a book brings my happy levels up to 100000 every single time. Literally, if I’m feeling down I can just turn to HMC and instantly I’m good again. But it has actually been a few years since my last reread, so it was a delight revisiting it once more. If I needed anything during this crazy year, it was a good dose of my Howl and Sophie. <3
But the real reason I’m cheating and listing it here is becaaaause I wasn’t just rereading it, I was reading it out loud to my sister! And it was HER first time! I’ve been wanting my sister to experience MY FAVORITE BOOK for yeeeears, but she’s not a huge reader (I KNOW *sobs*). So one day in April we were talking about it and she was like, “Well, if it’s on audiobook I could give it a listen.” And then I had a lightbulb moment and replied: “What if…what if *I* was your audiobook?” Thus began the delightful reading out loud of Howl’s Moving Castle in which I didn’t just get to reread it, but experience it all anew through my sister’s eyes.
AND.
SHE LOVED IT. And 1000% now understands my obsession. I’ve been waiting so long for this day, guys! My sister and I now squeal over all things Howl with each other on a constant basis and my life is basically complete.
BUT WAIT. There’s more!
My bestie just happened to finally read it this year too! I have been badgering her endlessly for years to READ IT. And, AT LAST, she has done it, and like my sister is now completely obsessed and totally gets why I’ve been hounding her to read it. I feel so validated.
Basically, the two people I’m closest to have finally read and now love my favorite story of all time and I can die in peace and happiness now.
My mom has actually started it too, though hasn’t finished. And I know at least two of my dear internet peeps read it this year too! (*waves at Christine Eyre and Jen*)
So even though 2020 was the WORST, somehow I got like everyone I know to finallyyyy read HMC. Which kind of makes up for the awfulness of the year.
Everything is good now. *nods*
Pst. By the way, YOU SHOULD TOTALLY READ THIS BOOK. (Is it my mission to get everyone in the world to read HMC? Yes, yes, it is. So far I’m making good progress.)
Trial by Song/Cinders Dance by Alicia Gaile
Totally cheating again and counting two books as one, but it’s a series and both books tie together so completely it’s hard to even separate them.
These books are hidden gems that I wish more people knew about because THEY’RE SO GOOD! Contemporary fantasy with creepy fae and a whole pack of brothers? YES PLEASE.
The story follows Jack, a teen whose greatest passion and gift is music. He can pick up any instrument and play it…like magic. Because OH LOOK AT THAT. It is magic. Jack and his (many) older brothers are fae-touched, giving them each special talent sand the ability to see faeries. Which isn’t always a gift.
The world is overrun by the menacing fae folk who keep themselves hidden. No one but Jack and his family even realize that when suddenly money you just had disappears or you catch something strange in the corner of your eye, that’s all fae mischief. It is a burden and a danger knowing the truth.
When Jack accidentally ends up in the dark world of faeries and steals a sacred harp from them, his and his brothers’ lives get 100x even more dangerous and complicated.
There is seriously so much to love here! My favorite was the BROTHERS. We stan a book entirely overrun with loyal, dynamic brothers. Poor Jack is the youngest of 7, and the brotherly chaos and shenanigans in these books was true gold. I loved every second of it!
But I also was ecstatic to find a book that portrayed fae as the truly menacing, hideous things they can be in folklore. These are no glittery, wand-wielding fairies. Oh no, the fae are dark, terrible beings. All the fae myth interwoven through the tale was GREAT.
ALSO. The first book is a Jack and the Beanstalk retelling and the second a Cinderella retelling! 😀
I had such a grand time reading these books, and I NEED more people to know about them! They are so worth the read.
CONTENT CAUTION: If I recall, they could get prettyyyy gory through a few choice scenes (when I say these fae are dark, I mean dark), and there was a smattering of crude language.
Read my full review of Trial by Song HERE!
Fierce Heart by Tara Grayce
Gonna be real, this is not my usual thing to read. Even though, yes, it’s fantasy with ELVES (my favorite!), it’s more of a romance than anything. And strictly romance books are a big no for me. Romantic subplots? Totally cool. Plots that are romance? *GAGS*
AND YET.
I adore this series with all my heart and soul.
I was gifted this book by a dear friend (you know who you are! <3), and had heard so, so many people rave about it, so I went in hoping I’d enjoy it. AND OH MY HEART. All the hype was real.
The story is about Essie, a human princess who very suddenly ends up marrying an elf warrior-prince after a rather disastrous diplomatic meeting. But optimistic Essie faces this turn of events like an exciting adventure, and is determined to heal the rocky bridge between hers and the elves’ kingdoms. Unfortunately, that’s no easy task, as her new husband will barely say a word to her, and all she really knows about him is he is the greatest, and most terrible, warrior amongst all the elves.
I loved how this book never took itself too seriously. It poked a lot of fun at the stereotypical elven culture and marriage of convenience tropes. BUT AT THE SAME TIME, there was so much heart to it. I don’t know how it managed to be so lighthearted and funny while at the same time deep and emotional, but IT DID.
The true gold of this book though was the CHARACTERS. Essie was one of the most refreshing heroines I’ve ever read about. Talkative and optimistic, this girl refused to let anything get her down. And it was through her kindness from which so much good came, and that is a message I am all about. Then there’s FARRENDEL MAH BOY. Quiet, heartbreaking, oh-so tortured Farrendel who just needed a hug MY POOR HEART. Putting these two complete opposites together gave me life, I’m gonna be real.
What I really appreciated was how it stayed 100% clean while still having a ton of romantic tension. Alllll the points to Tara Grayce!
This book was kind of everything I usually don’t like in stories: A pretty simplistic plot, very little action, and a heavy, heavy emphasis on the romance. BUT I LOVED IT. Every second of it! And the other books in the series are fantastic too! (*cue me anxiously awaiting book #4*)
Basically, even if this doesn’t look like your kind of story, I still absolutely recommend giving it a try! Everyone needs Essie and Farrendel in their lives.
Spindle by W.R. Gingell
GUYSGUYSGUYSGUYSGUYSSSS. I FOUND A NEW FAVORITE BOOK.
You know how I just flailed about Howl’s Moving Castle for longer than was ever necessary? YEAH. WELL. This book was so very much like HMC. *shrieks for a million, billion years* I mean, the author literally dedicated this one to Diana Wynne Jones SO YEAH. It was meant to be very HMCish and I cannot believe I hadn’t read it until now!
*takes deep breath*
Spindle is a Sleeping Beauty retelling(ish) about Poly, who awakes from an enchanted sleep by the kiss of a complete (and totally loony) wizard. Except Poly isn’t a princess and she hasn’t the foggiest idea why on earth she was in an enchanted sleep for THREE HUNDRED YEARS.
As if that’s not disconcerting enough, poor Poly is swept into a crazy adventure by the bedraggled, absentminded enchanter Luck who can’t seem to stand still long enough to even answer a single question, of which Poly has many.
It doesn’t help that her hair keeps getting longer and has literally come to life. Then there’s the dog who doesn’t seem to be a dog. And the fact that everyone thinks she’s the lost princess, which puts her in grave danger.
Moral of the story: Don’t take a three hundred year nap. As refreshing as that sounds, it just leads to a lot of confusion.
OKAY BUT SERIOUSLY THIS BOOK. It’s so whimsical and ridiculous and chaotic. It kind of feels like Howl’s Moving Castle on steroids. Which, ya know, is fine by me. All the banter between Poly and Luck GAVE. ME. LIFE. I loved the complete weirdness of the magic system, and how there were cozy moments and HILARIOUS moments and totally action-packed insane moments. It’s a…really hard book to describe. Wingell’s writing style is so unique, and, honestly, little hard to follow at first. But once you get used to it, it is a DELIGHTFUL ride.
Oh my goodness, I’m so happy I finally read this book this year. AND THE OTHERS. Because yessss, it’s a series, and though this first book was my favorite I adored the others as well! SO SO MUCH. I’ve tragically read all the ones that are currently available and I NEED MOOOOORE. I am addicted!
This is not only one of my new favorite books EVER, but W.R. Gingell is a new favorite author!
In fact, Spindle was probably my top read of 2020! Well, it and one other, of which I’ll be discussing soon.
In conclusion: IF YOU LIKE CHAOTIC, MAGICAL, DELIGHTFUL RIDES. YOU NEED THIS BOOK.
Read my full review HERE!
The Seventh Door/Omega Dragon by Bryan Davis
Cheating again and counting two books as one because #IDoWhatIWant
Let me tell you a story: Once upon a time, a little teenage Christine was introduced to a book about dragons. Not only about dragons, but Arthurian legend and all sorts of fantastic elements she loves, and it was CHRISTIAN. Christian YA fantasy was barely even a thing at the time, but it was something she NEEDED. These books changed everything for her. And have been a crucial part of her life ever since. THE END.
Ahem.
So yes. I was one of the many Christian teenagers who discovered Bryan Davis’ Dragon in Our Midst series, FELL IN LOVE, and have been so grateful he basically paved the way for Christian YA fantasy to become a thing.
These have been favorite books of mine for years and years, and I snagged each new one as it came out. Then I got older, and busier, and suddenly had 18992384 books to read.
When he announced the Children of the Bard series, a series that would tell the story of the children of the characters from the beloved original series, I was excited, but alas, it took me AGES to read them all. As in, I only just read the last two books this year.
IN MY DEFENSE. I really wanted to reread alllllll the books. But that’s TWELVE books, guys, and not just twelve books, but twelve huge books. BUT. Last year I finally, finally started my great reread and finished this year, and IT. WAS. DELIGHFUL. Especially when I at last made it to these two final books I had yet to read.
And— *CLUTCHES HEART* What a finale! I cried, guys. Coming to the end of the books that were such a major part of my teenage years and adult years was one emotional ride. But it was beautiful. The finale left me smiling and teary-eyed and clutching the book with a full heart.
These books mean so much to me. These characters have taught me countless things, have helped me grow, have inspired me for years and years with their courage and love and unshakable faith.
It was hard reaching their end, but also so fulfilling.
If you want some epic stories with amazingly complex plots, Arthurian legend, DRAGONS galore (yassss!), inspiring characters, and utterly beautiful messages, YOU NEED THESE BOOKS. Sometimes they can be a bit cheesy and preachy since they’re a tad older and really the first books of their style, but it’s still completely worth it.
The Icarus Aftermath by Arielle M. Bailey
Remember when I said Spindle and one other book were my two top favorite reads of 2020 (and newest favorite books of all time)? THIS IS THE OTHER ONE.
This book isn’t even my usual genre, as I’m not a huge sci-fi person. But. BUT! I can honestly say this is one of the best books I’ve ever read in my life, and will be one I probably shall be rereading time and time and time again for the rest of my life.
First of all, this is Star Wars meets Roman and Greek mythology, which is SUCH a great idea!
Secondly, this is a found family book and you guys know that’s my favorite.
Third, it’s just SO SO GOOOOOD! *SOBS*
The plot twists and action were all GREAT. But then there are the characters. The love and care and life put into these characters was mind-blowing. They mean more to me than I can properly express, and yet at the same time I could go on and on and onnnnn about how much I loved them and this whole story. BUT. I kind of already did in a review not too long ago, so I’ll spare you guys.
JUST READ IT. IT WAS BEAUTIFUL. *happy sobs*
Said review is HERE!
A Royal Masquerade by Allison Tebo
I cannot believe it took me so long to read thissss!
I have loved Allison Tebo’s The Reluctant Godfather for YEARS. Her witty, whimsical style is just my fave. Plus, if you’ve never met Burndee, the grumpy reluctant godfather himself, you are MISSING. OUT.
WELL. A Royal Masquerade is a direct sequel and OH MY GRACIOUS. What a hilarious, madcap ride it was! Burndee is back, and this time he’s causing alllll sorts of shenanigans and disruptions with Prince Colin at an otherwise stuffy wedding.
Goodness me, I laughed so much, guys. SO MUCH. These books are just delights all the way around. Lighthearted and funny and so brilliantly witty, with the most endearing characters. Plus they’re fairy tale retellings! Which is always a plus!
These stories are perfect for young and old alike, and they’re novellas, so super quick reads! I couldn’t recommend them enough!
Read my full review HERE!
WELP. I told myself I was going to just do a quick summary of each book, and here we are with this monster post. I’M SORRY. I just get carried away when talking about my favorite reads. And this doesn’t even sort of cover all the amazing books I devoured this year. I kind of want to flail about them ALL. IT WAS SUCH A GOOD READING YEAR.
If you’re feeling like a nosy bookdragon (same), you can see all my 2020 reads on GoodReads HERE! And feel free to ask my thoughts on any of them I didn’t review. You know I am always happy to ramble about books!
Here’s to a hopefully great reading year come 2021!
LET’S TALK!
OF COURSE WE GOTTA TALK BOOKS. Have you read any of these? Or do any appeal to you? And what were some of your favorite 2020 reads? Nosy minds need to know!
I read Howl’s Moving Castle for the first time this year because of you XD And I love that you counted it in this list, because I totally do that (reread old favorites and then be like THIS. THIS IS MY NEW FAVORITE BOOK NOW.)
OH MY GOODNESS. Another person to add to my list. I’m feeling so successful right now. XDD And YES. Like…I tried to not add rereads, but HMC deserves to be on all the lists. ALL OF ‘EM.
WHY HAVE I NOT READ ANY OF THESE BOOOOOOOOOOKSSSSSSSS SOB SOB
All of these sound AMAZING, and I need to read them all ASAP. Howl’s Moving Castle sounds sooooooo good, and I NEEEED to read it immediately. Fierce Heart is probably second on my list, because I’m a sucker for romance and ELVES. I love elves. Especially in the Keefe form. *CLUTCHES HEART* CHRISTIAN YA FICTION? THAT EXSITS? *cue the cartoon running to the library* This list has made me happy, because now my nerdy soul has books to read. *dances in typed words*
Sorry for cutting in here, but did someone mention KEEFE???? I LOVE THAT ELF SO MUCH XD
Who DOESNT? Keefe is AMAZING. I actually had a dream where he got ahold of Coke and mentos…. XD it was great.
Oh, wait. I just saw your comment. *dies* That’s hilarious!!!!!! I want to have a dream like that!!!!!!!
I love that dream SO MUCH – I feel like any situation with Keefe and Coke/Mentos would just end in disaster XD XD
Just popping in to mention that I also love Keefe with my whole heart!
I think someone needs to show this expansive comment to our Lord Hunky Hair. And while they’re at it, give him a big hug. And also drag him back to Sophie because they must always be together.
RIGHT?!?!?!? Keefe is THE BOMB!!!! He’s one of my favorite fictional characters EVER. <333
@Ally – That’s totally okay you haven’t read any of these! A lot of them aren’t super well known, after all. I tend to read really obscure books. Haha. BUT YES. OBVIOUSLY I RECOMMEND THEM ALL. And YA Christian fantasy absolutely does exist (mainly because Bryan Davis paved the way, bless him) and it is a fabulous thing! If you want recommendations, check out Enclave Publishing’s books. They specialize in Christian speculative fiction and publish so many great ones!
OKAY, GIRLS. Confession time: I’ve never read any of the Keeper of the Lost Cities books. I KNOW. ‘TIS SHAMEFUL. I really must. Clearly I need to meet Keefe. XD I’ve seen people talk about him, but I didn’t realize until now that he was an elf??? :O YEAH. I NEED TO MEET HIM.
You doooooooooo he’s an amazing cinnamon roll.
I LOVE this post so much, Christine – and you just added more books to my TBR! 😀
Okay, I’ll admit it . . . I read Howl’s Moving Castle this year because of you. And watched the movie. And I LOVED IT. *cries* Howl is absolutely the best <3 <3 <3
I’m so glad you had a good reading year in 2020! I hope your 2021 brings just as many amazing books! 😀
Awwww, I’m so glad you enjoyed it! And I make no apologies for adding more books to your TBR. *grins*
AAAAAHHHHHH!!!! Another person to add to my list! 😀 I’M SO RIDICULOUSLY HAPPY YOU READ IT AND LOVED IT. I’m grinning so hard right now. And the movie is a delight as well, yes! You gotta love Howl in all his forms!
Thank you so much, girl! Yours as well! <3
THIS LIST ARGH EXCUSE ME WHILE I GO BUY EVERYTHING ON IT *FLAILS*
I love how many of these are indie too!!!!!! The indie world is my favorite thing rn and just EEEEEEEEPPPPP
*FLAILS WITH YOU* Oh my goodness, yes! I’ve discovered so many favorites in the indie world. It’s really blossoming and is a beautiful thing. <3
Cool list! I’ve never read any of these.
This year was an awesome reading year for me, too, simply because I read Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird for the first time. It obviously wasn’t written in 2020, but I had never read it before. It was so so so so so so so so GOOD!!! I cried so much reading it, and now it’s one of my favorite books. It really is a classic for a reason.
Thank you! I often read really obscure things, so that is totally okay! Haha.
OH YAY. I’m so glad you had a good reading year! Okay but, I’ve shamefully never read To Kill a Mockingbird. I’ve been meaning to for an embarrassing amount of years, but I just never get around to classics. BUT I NEED TO. I am sure I’ll love it! ONE OF THESE DAYS I’m gonna read it, I am! And you talking about it is reminding me that it needs to be sooner rather than later, so thank you for that! 😀
I’m newish to your blog, but I absolutely love all of what you do! A friend and I have followed along to your weekly NaNo updates, and we have had so much fun being excited about your story!! Your Monday posts always come at a great time and make Monday so much better.
Anyway, I’ve added a few of these to my GoodReads tbr list, just like you predicted. :)))
Hiiii! Welcome to my blog! I’m so honored to have you reading. And oh my goodness gracious, you guys enjoyed all my crazy NaNo updates? AWWWW!!! That is the sweetest! Hearing this has absolutely made. my. day! I cannot stop smiling. Thank you so much for reading! <3
*BEAMS* I make no apologies for adding books to people’s TBRs. 😀
HOW HAVE I NOT READ ANY OF THESE BOOKS BEFORE????? THEY ALL SOUND SO GOOOODDD. But, hey, there’s still time before the end of 2020 to cram in as much reading as is humanly possible (or inhumanly possible).
And, hmmmm, what were my favorite 2020 reads….
Oh! I know. The Missing series was really good, The Last Summer of the Garrett Girls was really good, The Book Thief was really good, Stalking Jack the Ripper was really good. SO MANY BOOKS were really good.
Okay, and also, HOW IS 2020 NEARLY OVER???? THIS IS INSANE. I REPEAT, INSANE.
THEY ARE SO GOOD. SO SO GOOD. But nooo worries about having never read them. I often read super obscure books. XD Although of course I recommend them ALL!
I’m so glad you read such good books this year too! Shamefully I have not read any of those (not even The Book Thief, which has been on my TBR for years), but clearly I NEED THEM.
I DON’T KNOW. I JUST DON’T KNOW. I am not ready to let December go quite yet! *clings to it with the last edge of my sanity*
Ah, I love these kinds of posts. They are so relaxing to read. *sips hot chocolate* I have read Howl’s Moving Castle, twice actually, which doesn’t sound like much, but rereads for me are once in a blue moon. It is such a fantastic story! Marvellous choice for a favorite. Based on your review of Spindle I bought a copy in May…but I still haven’t read it. *cries* Soon! Very soon! I wish you all the best reading in 2021! *twirls wand and vanishes*
Awww, I’m so glad you think so! I do too. All the end-of-the-year posts tend to be my favorites to read!
ANOTHER HMC FAN YASSS. Ugh. It just makes me so happy! <3 And YES. I absolutely recommend Spindle if you enjoyed Howl. Although noooo worries about not reading it yet. We’re not gonna talk about the books I’ve had on my shelf for actual years that still have not been touched. *hides face* Sometimes it just…takes a while to get to certain reads. XD SO MANY BOOKS. SO LITTLE TIME. *flails*
Thank you so much! I hope you have a marvelous year of reading come 2021 as well!
AHHHH I ALWAYS LOVE WHEN THESE LISTS START TO COME OUT. I’ve been rereading a childhood favorite series over the last couple years as well–the Emelan universe books by Tamora Pierce. I only read some of them as a kid because my school library didn’t have all the books, and I’ve been going back and finishing the ones I wasn’t able to get to. And the nostalgia is so real, my goodness. I’m on the last one right now!
Your descriptions and reviews of Spindle throughout the year have made me want to read it so badly!! I’m trying to stay away from all Sleeping Beauty retellings with a ten-foot pole while I initially plot mine so I don’t get too influenced by any of them (yes, I think I first mentioned this retelling idea to you over a year ago; and yes, I’m still trying to figure it out, lol), but after I’ve mapped out the plot, I do want to check out Spindle!! (And Spindle Dreams!)
It’s really hard to narrow down a list of even my top 10 books this year, let alone just a few to mention in a comment! But some of my very favorites would have to include The Jewel of the Kalderash by Marie Rutkoski, A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab, and Call of the Wraith by Kevin Sands. I also finally finished the Lockwood and Co. series by Jonathan Stroud this year, which simultaneously drained and added 20 years to my life, if you know what I mean?? It was incredible.
Eleanor
ME TOO, ME TOO. They’re so much fun!!!
Ooooh, you know I’ve been meaning to try some Tamora Pierce for ages and ages and still haven’t. I REALLY MUST. I’ve heard good things about her books! That is so so special you’ve been able to revisit and finish some childhood favorites! That sounds like me with Bryan Davis’ books. There is something so magical about slipping into a world from your childhood. <3
I don’t blame you one bit about trying to stay away from SB retellings right now. That’s a good plan! I will say, Spindle is a very, very loose SB retelling, BUT STILL. I totally hear you on not wanting to accidentally get influenced. I’ve done that too! (And hey, I’ve had stories percolate in my head for YEARS before touching them. No shame in that whatsoever!)
I am so ashamed to say I’ve not read any of the ones you’ve mentioned! *sobs* BUT. A Darker Shade of Magic is definitely one I want to try. And Lockwood and Co.! Oh man, I’ve heard sooo many good things about that one, and actually have the first book on my shelf. I MUST READ IT. But oh man, I have heard it brings on the feels, so I better brace myself before taking on this series…
AAAHHHHH!!!! WHY DO YOU DO THIS TO ME, CHRISTINE???? I NEED those books yet my TBR is already SOOOOO long!!!!! XD Speaking of my TBR, I have to let you know that over half of the books on there are ones I found through your recommendation. I’m seriously not kidding! XD I’ve also been wanting to read Kyle Robert Shultz’s books for a LONG time and I’ve officially decided to read Howl’s Moving Castle after I finish the book I’m on. I have to admit…..I’ve had HMC on my bookshelf since August and still haven’t gotten around to it but this time I DEFINITELY will!!!! Everyone seems to love it, so I guess it’s worth my time!!! 😀
*waves hand* I have read A Royal Masquerade though (which I think I already told you once) and YEESSSSSS!!!! It is just SO GOOD! Burndee and Colin are two of my favorite beans ever and I can’t wait for the next book to come out!!!
Oooooh! Let’s see…some of my favorite reads this year would be the Tales of Ambia series, the Once Upon a Twist Tales series, Fawkes by Nadine Brandes, and Unlocked by Shannon Messenger (the 8th book in the Keeper of the Lost Cities series). Which, by the way, you NEED to read KOTLC!!!!!! If you like elves, magic, and snarky, broken boys I’m 99% sure you’ll enjoy this series! I’m also reading this series called the Blades of Acktar by Tricia Mingerink which will probably end up on my list of favorite reads too! XD There are just so many awesome books out there!
AHHHHHHHHH KEEPER! Ask literally anyone who knows me and they will tell you that I am the BIGGEST KOTLC fan ever created, both in the Forbidden and the Lost Cities.
She is the biggest KOTLC fan! I can confirm it!!!!! 🙂 You’re AWESOME, Ally!!!!! <33 <33
*CACKLES* Sorry, Victoria! I just can’t help but make everyone’s TBRs bigger. XD But oh my goodness, I am ridiculously honored you’ve been adding my recommendations on your TBR. Awwww! Hopefully I won’t lead you astray and you’ll enjoy them! Haha. But oh man, Shultz’s books are GREAT. And HOWL’S MOVING CASTLE YESSSS. You’ll have to tell me what you thought once you’ve read it! 😀 (But good gracious, I have books that have sat on my shelf for actual years that I’ve still not read. There is no shame in having HMC since August and not reading it. There is only so much time, after all!)
BURNDEE AND COLIN. YES YES YES. I love them so very much! I literally just read Poppy’s Peril this week and am now anxiously awaiting the next Ambia book. I LOVE THEM SO MUCH! <3
OH OH. I LOVED FAWKES. AND ONCE UPON A TWIST TALES. Such fantastic ones!
I DEFINITELY NEED TO READ KOTLC. It is just shameful I never have! I know so very many people love it. SO YES. IT NEEDS TO HAPPEN. Clearly. XD
Oooh, Blades of Acktar! YES. I’ve been meaning to read those for ages as well. I actually have the first book sitting on my shelf! (Like I said, I have a loooot of unread books on my shelves. XD) So many good books, so little time! *flails*
Oh, YES!!! You have a really good taste in books! All of the ones I’ve read that you’ve recommended are AWESOME!!!! I’ll totally let you know how I like HMC!
Ahhhh! Now I don’t know which one you should read first! KOTLC or Blades of Acktar! 😂 Both of them are SOOOO exceptionally good! *flails with you* There really isn’t enough time! 😆
Ooh! Last year I read Howl’s Moving Castle aloud to my siblings and it was one of the greatest reading moments of my life! There’s some kind of magic that happens when that book is read aloud!
Fierce Heart was sooo good!!!! I still shamefully need to read the third book…
I haven’t read any of the other books, but I think I need to. 😀
Aaaaahhhh yes! Totally agreed! It is magic on its own, but reading it out loud was just a whole new enchanting experience and I adored every second of it. <3
FIERCE HEART. Wasn’t it amazing? I only just read the 2nd and 3rd books, even though I had read Fierce Heart way earlier in the year, so I feel ya! There are just so many books to read. It’s hard to keep on top of them. o.o But I will say, brace yourself for the feels. The 3rd book was a wild ride!
Obviously I recommend them all! Haha.
To Best the Boys is PERFECT for 2020, and I can’t believe I didn’t think to reread it this year. XD
ECHO NORTH SOUNDS AMAZING! I LOVE East of the Sun, West of the Moon, and have loved every retelling of it I’ve read so far (two, I think?) so I can’t wait to check this one out!
HMC!!!!!! I WILL SCREAM FOREVER ABOUT THIS BOOK! I’M SO GLAD YOU’RE ALSO A FAN! I’m in the same boat of nagging people to read it. 🙂 A tiny theatre where I live made a musical of it, which was FANTABULOUSLY close to the book, and I have seen it three times at this point. XD I was so worried, going in, since I love the book so much, but it was PERFECT.
I totally need to check out Trial by Song and Fierce Heart! CHRISTINE I HAVE TOO MUCH ON MY TBR ALREADY WHY ARE YOU DOING THIS TO ME.
SPINDLE! Spindle was amazing. I haven’t read anything else in the series yet, because I loved Poly and Luck so much that I couldn’t deal with a book that was NOT ABOUT THEM, but seriously, the HMC vibes are REAL, and it was FANTASTIC.
There’s no way I could list all my favorite 2020 reads (I’m putting together a post for New Years that lists…way too many of them. More than ten. Possibly more than thirty. It’ll be great.), but I LOVED:
The Letters of J. R. R. Tolkien
Northanger Abbey
To Kill a Mockingbird
Code Name Verity (by Elizabeth Wein)
The Return of the Thief (by Megan Whalen Turner)
and most recently The Farseer Trilogy by Robin Hobb, which is a twisty turny adult fantasy series with a fantastic outside-the-box magic-ish system, wonderful characters, and it’s JUST AMAZING.
RIGHT? When I picked it up, I had no clue how fitting it’d be for this year. XD
OOOH. If you love that fairy tale, then I 1000000% recommend Echo North to you! It was just– *clutches heart* SO SO GOOD! I actually think it’s the only East of the Sun, West of the Moon retelling I’ve read. :O Clearly I need to find some more!
ANOTHER HMC FAN! *tackle glomps you and keep you forever* YES. SCREAM ABOUT IT WITH ME. I JUST LOVE IT SO MUCH. *HAPPY SOBS* Oh. My. Goodness. An HMC musical??? I have never heard of such a thing but that sounds AH-MAY-ZING!!! How wonderful they honored the book! Aaaahhhh that must have been magical!
*cackles* I would apologize for adding more books to your TBR buuuuut you know I’m not actually sorry. XDDD
AND ANOTHER SPINDLE FAN. *glomps you again* I feel you on the Poly and Luck thing though. I was sad to see the other books weren’t about them, BUT I still adored every single book in the series. Some other great characters are introduced, plus there may be some cameos. *wriggles eyebrows*
I seriously wanted to list every single book I read this year, honestly. IT WAS SUCH A GOOD READING YEAR. I’m so happy to hear you read great ones too!
Would you believe I’ve not read a single one you listed? Not even the classics! ‘TIS SHAMEFUL I KNOW. But almost every single one of them is on my TBR! And oooh, I need to check out this Robin Hobb series. That sounds fabulous!
Hollow and Echo Noooorth and FARRENDEL! They are some of my favorites toooo! And Trial By Song, Spindle, and A Royal Masquerade are all sooo good too!
I reread Howl for like the 7th time or something ridiculous and YESSSS. I’m so happy so many people finally read it! It’s the literal best!!!
I’m not very far into The Icarus Aftermath but it’s totally amazing so far and I need to find the gumption to sit down and read the rest! *pencils “find a sci-fi mood” into schedule*
I neeeed to read Cinders Dance soooon, and although I haven’t read them, I’m glad to hear you liked To Best the Boys nd the Bryan Davis books! That’s fabulous! 😀
I just looove all your thoughts about the books (book posts are the bestttt) and I love so many of these books too! *flailing* I’m just so so happy that you had such a good reading year!!!
OKAY BUT. I think every single one of those you just named were recommendations from you??? SO YES. You really are my book fairy and just discover and recommend the best books of ever! <333
I absolutely adore how many of us read Howl this year. We all needed a dose of Howl during this crazy time. XD BUT IT’S JUST SO GOOD AND I NEVER GET TIRED OF IT GAH.
Literally I’m hardly ever in a sci-fi mood, so I feel you! It’s definitely not my usual read, but THE CHARACTERS. I loved them so much!
I honestly may have liked Cinders Dance even more than Trial by Song! I DON’T KNOW. They were both so so good! And yet more books I learned about from YOU. So thank you!!!
D’awwww! Thank you! I love reading your book posts. Book posts are definitely the best! 😀
*Immediately adds all of these to my TBR* I’ve heard many good things about Howl’s Moving Castle, but I haven’t read it yet. Looks like thats next on my list to grab from the library.
I also did quite a bit of reading this year, and I think my top 2020 read so far is the Stormlight Archives series by Brandon Sanderson. They are MONSTERS of books, the longest I’ve read, but they are wonderfully done and I would die for like every main character. As well as some of the side characters.
*BEAMS* Howl’s Moving Castle is just…AWK. It’s seriously my happy place! It’s a quirky, ridiculous little read, but I love it so very much! And obviously I wholeheartedly recommend it! ;D
Would you believe I’ve never read a single Sanderson book? *hides face in shame* I’ve been meaning to try some of his for AGES, but still haven’t gotten to it! They sound amazing though! I definitely gotta give these a try!
AAAHHHH, WHY have I not read any of these books!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THEY SOUND SOO GOOD AND MY LIST OF BOOKS TO READ IS JUST CRAZY TALL!!!!!
Help me.I am gonna shamefully admit I haven’t read Howl’s Moving Castle…yet! The way you talked about it makes me SOOOO WANNA READ IT!!!!!!!!!!! Actually, it sounded a LOT like the way I go on about The False Prince by Jennifer A. Nielsen. It’s kind of also my life goal to get EVERY SINGLE PERSON I KNOW to read it. I’d say I’m getting pretty successful. XD Honestly, my mind wants to suddenly draw a blank on books I’ve read this year. Sooo…I guess I’m just gonna end this comment. 😉 GREAT POST!!!!!!!!You got me to read it. Guys listen to Maggie and read TFP immediately it’s so goooooooooooooood.
This is true!!!!!!!!!! You owe me sooooo much!!!!! XD YES!! Listen to me and read TFP RIGHT NOW, guys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You’ll be thanking me. 😉
THAT IS OKAY, MAGGIE. I often read a lot of obscure ones that a lot of people haven’t read! Haha.
And now I have to admit to you that I’ve not read The False Prince despite having a badrillion people recommend it to me. I WILL READ IT ONE DAY. I WILL. I need to try all of Jennifer A. Nielsen’s books!
Thanks, girl!
Was To Best The Boys all about girl power? Was the character unrealistically better then the boys? Is it supposed to be a ‘feminist’ book? (just quite curious, not trying to start anything.)
Oh no, no worries! I’m noooot a fan of “feminist” books myself, and was super nervous about this one. BUT. I was pleasantly surprised! I think it took everything from a Christian standpoint and, like I said in my post, it respected all walks of life. I thought it was absolutely fair toward women and men. There were a few guys who were portrayed as pretty dumb and annoying, but others were FANTASTIC. It was just an extremely well balanced book and I didn’t find it too heavy-handed at all. 🙂
Okay I NEEEEED to read To Best the Boys!! I’ve heard so many amazing things about it and how it handles feminism and respects ALL types of women and just… I need to read this book. And I feel like if you loved it so much I will too! (Although whaaaat it’s about a disease?? I somehow had no idea about that and just… yikes xD #2020)
Ummm Echo North sounds amazing?? *aggressively needs* And Howl’s Moving Castle!! I WILL read it eventually (hopefully next year!!) and when I do you can rest assured that it is 100000% because of you that I do. xD
I HAVEN’T READ A SINGLE BRYAN DAVIS BOOK. I know, shameful! SO MANY AMAZING BOOKS I NEED TO READ. GAH. I just need to invent something that stops time when I read! Not all the time, just when I read! Is that too much to ask for??
It certainly sounds like you had a wonderful reading year! Which is fantastic, considering, well, you know… 2020. xD Here’s to the books of 2021 being just as lovely!
theonesthatreallymatter.blogspot.com
YOU DOOOOO!!! It was such a great read. I rarely find books with such a refreshing, balanced, powerful message. But also it was just a good book. I loved it so much! (I know, right??? When I read it, I had no clue how close to home it would be. Eheh.)
ECHO NORTH WAS AMAZIIIIIING. I’d recommend that book to everyone. And OF COURSE I’d recommend Howl to every living creature on this earth. I will happily take the blame for when you read it. *grins*
THAT IS OKAY. You’d probably be shocked at some of the books I’ve yet to read. A machine that stop time when we’re reading would the BEST THING EVER and I need this now. Seriously, we bookworms don’t ask for much.
Thank you, Emily! I hope your 2021 is a GREAT year full of lovely books as well! 😀
I had exactly the same reaction to To Best the Boys!! I was cautious based on the title, but I knew Nadine Brandes and Mary Weber are good friends and I trust Nadine’s recommendations, so I gave it a try, and I WAS SO GLAD I DID. Not only did I read it and love it (Yesssss, the balance in the message is so gooodddd!), but I passed it on to my best friend (because she and Rhen are SO. ALIKE) and she ALSO loved it!!! So that one was a huge win for me this year, too! Fantastic book! ^-^
Awwww! YES. That is the best! It was such a refreshing, balanced read, and I wish we had more books like that. I so respect Mary Weber for the powerful messages she weaves into her stories! She’s truly an inspiration.
Howl’s Moving Castle is hands down my favorite book, and I let myself re-read it far too often. (It was definitely needed this year)
I need to read the rest of these. They all sound so good!
YES. ALWAYS HOWL! And pfffft. I don’t think there can ever be too many rereads of that book. It seriously never gets old. <3
They were all GREAT. I actually keep meaning to recommend Trial by Song to you, because it has so much good fae lore in it and just feels like a Skye book. I think you’d like it! ^_^
Welp. Now I have so many more books to add to my tbr. Am I complaining? Of course not! I loved your list! There really are some fantastic books on there! I can’t wait to read the Icarus Aftermath, it has been on my tbr for foreeeever!
*GRINS* That’s what I’m here for!
Awww, thanks! It was just such a good reading year. AND OH MY GOODNESS YESSS. The Icarus Aftermath is the BEST! I hope you enjoy it! <3
I read Howl’s Moving Castle this year for the first time too!!!! How cool!
And all of those books sound just AMAZING. I already have To Best the Boys and A Fierce Heart on my TBR. Also The Icarus Aftermath because of your review.
You did? Aww yaaaay!!! So many people read my favorite book for the first time this year! That almost makes up for the awfulness of this year. ;D
Oh, awesome! Those three are just FABULOUS! I hope you enjoy them!
EEEEE!!!! I LOVE YOUR MONSTER POSTS!!! Especially if they’re about books! ^_^ All of those books sound AMAZING!!!
I’ve been meaning to read To Best the Boys all year, but it um, didn’t happen… XD Next year, though!
*waves back* YES!!! I HAVE YOU TO THANK FOR MY NEWFOUND LOVE OF HMC!!! It was one of my reading highlights of the year!!! ^_^ <333 You read it out loud to your sister? That’s so sweet! I’m so glad she’s joined the fandom!!! <333 Yes, we must get more people to read this! ^_^
And I just want to read all of these books!!! So many books, so little time… *sigh* XDD
D’AWWW! That makes me happy to hear! Especially since I write a lot of them. *nervous laughter*
Ooooh yes! To Best the Boys was AH-MAY-ZING! But I feel ya! I feel like I never get to all the books I hope to… I hope you enjoy it when you do read it though! ^_^
EEP. I’m still so thrilled you read it and enjoyed it! And YES. My sister is now part of the crazy fandom and it makes me so happy! We must get ALL the people to join the fandom. *cackles*
So many books, so little time indeed! The greatest tragedy of a bookworm: a lack of infinite time for reading.
What a spectacular reading year you’ve had! AND THERE ARE SO MANY GOOD ONES ON THIS LIST, OH MY WORD. To Best the Boys, The Seventh Door/Omega Dragon (have I told you how happy I am you got to experience the end of the series?), HMC (for a split second there, I scrolled down and saw just the cover, and thought to myself, “But… she’s read it before, hasn’t she?!” And then I kept reading and realized yes, yes you have. XD)…
Oh, and Echo North is verrrry high on my TBR since I received it for Christmas. *heart eyes* Also, you might be convincing me to read Fierce Hearts. Perhaps. 😉 I’ve heard good things about it from multiple sources now!
Here’s to another amazing year of books! <3
IT WAS SUCH A GOOD READING YEAR. At least something good came from 2020. Thank goodness for books. ;D (That’s hilarious about HMC. Hahaha. Yeeeah, I’ve read it just a few times. *grins*)
I cannot wait for you to read Echo North! I think you will absolutely adore it. <3 And Fierce Heart was so good to! It really is not something I’d normally read, and I was very skeptical over the whole thing at first. But Farrendel and Essie won me over immediately. They’re just too precious!
So far I’ve quite enjoyed what I’ve read this year, so YES. Hopefully it’ll be another great year of books! ^_^