Last year, I participated in the 2018 Reading Challenge over at GoodReads. I placed my goal at 100 books, which was a little crazy since I didn't start the challenge right away. I didn't actually start it until the end of January and then I kind of forgot about it in February. Oh well, I think I did fairly decent last year. I read 42 books!
So. I decided to share my top ten favorite books I read last year. They're in no particular order.
Book #1
Last Christmas In Paris: A Novel of World War I by Hazel Gaynor
This story was an unforgettable romantic tale during the Great War. This romantic story follows the love story of Evie and Thomas. It's charmingly told through the letters the pair sent back and forth.
Book # 2
The Story of Arthur Truluv by Elizabeth Berg
This was a charming tale of two unlikely friends. The story revolves around Arthur Truluv, an elderly widow and Maddy, a troubled pregnant teenager. Together than learn that some families are a little unconventional.
Book # 3
The Book Thief by Mark Zusak
This was a book I read because Therese was reading it for school. I had never read it, although I had seen the movie. I figured I'd read it along with her. This was an interesting story about Liesel, who is growing up during the German occupation. This story is told from Death's perspective. This is a little weird at first, but the story is a must. It's perfect for students studying about Nazi Germany and the War.
Book # 4
The Secret by Kathryn Hughes
This is a heart breaking novel that leads readers through tragedy, hope, and second chances. The story is about Beth's search for the truth. She finds her mother kept a secret for 40 years. This mystery opens up old wounds and brings hope. The Secret was an outstanding read that made your heart ache for all those involved.
Book # 5
Angel Falls by Kristin Hannah
This is a story woven around old love and new love. It deals with the heart ache of lost love and the joy in finding new love. Sometimes, we get so caught up in what we have lost, we don't see what we have right in front of us.
Book # 6
Losing the Moon by Patti Callahan Henry
This is another story about love that was lost. Amy Reynolds is shocked when her first truelove suddenly reappears in her life. Even though she is happily married, Amy can't stop wondering why her first love was taken away. She can't help wondering what happened. Will there be a happy ending or will it be bittersweet? Anyone who has ever lost a love will feel drawn to this story.
Book # 7
The River Below by Bonnie Hearn Hill.
This book is a mystery. I don't often read mysteries, but I differently enjoyed this one. The mystery is filled with lots of twist and turns, secrets, and murder.
Book # 8
Goodbye Sweet Girl: A Story of Domestic Violence and Survival by Kelly Sundberg
This is the brave true story of a women who suffered domestic abuse at the hands of her husband, escaped, and went on to flourish. She survived horrific things, but became stronger. With courage, she shares her story with raw honesty. This is a must read!
Book # 9
Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren
This is another story about love that was lost and found again. It seems I picked a theme this year for a lot of my readings. It wasn't intentional, but a good bit of the books I read this year revolved around this theme. Who doesn't love a good love story?
Book # 10
Ghosted: A Novel by Rosie Walsh
This is another mystery book. It's not a traditional mystery book, but it's fantastic. It definitely kept you guessing and then when you find out the secret you're shocked. Even with all the secrets, you can't help praying things work out. You feel for the characters and what them to have a life filled with happiness. This was a random pick for me at the library and I was glad I picked it.
So there are my top ten for 2018. What books did you read last year and love? I'd love to get some recommendations for this year. I've joined the reading challenge at GoodReads again for 2019! I'm 4 books into my challenge. This year, I set my goal at 80!
Want to join in? Head on over and get started!
Till Next Time,
Monique
Thank you Monique! xoxo
ReplyDeleteI need a few new authors...I always read at night no matter how tired to take my mind off reality.
This came at a perfect time. I've heard of the Book Thief and wanted to read it years ago...never got around to it. Thx for the reminder.....
Also the Secret and Ghosted look great. I res'd both from my library.
I love Kristin Hannah too!! Have read every one of her books from way back in the 90s. Have you read The Great ALone yet? I love her style and description but I found the book too hard personally to get through. It was too "close" and almost like a therapy session to me so I had to abandon it.
Thank you Monique.....
I enjoy stopping over. I will be getting back to blogging this year.
God bless