I ended 2017 with a comprehensive review of the best books that I read last year. I find that this helps me to stay on track with my reading goals and highlight some books that you all may want to know more about. I try to focus my reading on authors that I can learn from, I always look for stories that I like and try to learn the techniques that the author has employed. I read 15 books in the first three months of 2018 and these are my favorites. Be sure to add these to your “want-to-read” list.

Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood: I have become a huge fan of Margaret Atwood over the past five years and have been methodically reading through her collection. I thought that this book started a little slow, which surprised me since I am usually hooked on her books from page one. I was glad that I kept with it because this was a phenomenal story! I wouldn’t recommend it if this would be your first Atwood, but you should still consider adding it to your list.

The Princess Saves Herself in This One by Amanda Lovelace: I started my journey as a writer with poetry and I was so delighted to start the new year off with an old friend. I haven’t made much time to sit and read a collection of poetry in a while and when I saw the description of Lovelace’s book I was intrigued. This was an excellent collection and I can’t wait to read the next two in the series. Even if you have never been big into poetry this is an excellent collection to start with.

Dark Rooms by Lili Anolik: I found that I could not stop reading this book. I started it while I was on vacation and wanted to stay inside and keep reading all day. I had to know whodunnit and the ending does not disappoint. If you are looking for a good mystery mixed with some prep school shenanigans, then this is a book for you.

Origin by Dan Brown: So, Dan Brown probably doesn’t need any extra marketing since all of his books are number one bestsellers, but this book was amazing. I love the genre that he has perfected where history meets modern science and mystery. I love that genre so much I made a character in Escaping Avila Chase a fan of it too! If you have enjoyed the other books in the Robert Langdon series then be sure to add this to your list. If you haven’t read any of them yet then this is just as good a place to start as any.

Zoo City by Lauren Beukes: I’ve read a few of Beukes books over the past few years. I find each of them disturbing and enthralling. I am looking forward to reading more of her work and learning from her techniques. Zoo City did not disappoint and blended mystery, entertainment, crime, and animals in such a unique way. I would HIGHLY recommend it.
What have your favorite reads been so far in 2018?