Even though I have had my own books released as audiobooks, I have only just discovered the ability to check out audiobooks through my local library and my headphones have been practically glued to my head. I was able to work through a lot of books that had been on my “to-read-list” for a while as I drove to work, input information into reports, or during any other random task. Checking out the audiobooks didn’t limit my ability to check out paperback or hardback book either, so I had an extremely productive third quarter in terms of reading. Below are the best books that I read (and listened to) in Q3

Worth the Hype: I have heard amazing things about each of these books and they all delivered! If you listen to any bookish podcasts or follow any bookstagramers then you have probably heard a lot about these books, but don’t let the hype deter you. Each book was unique and amazing!

The Hate U Give – If you are a person who is currently alive and participating in society then you HAVE to read this book. It is incredibly timely and gripping. I was thoroughly impressed by how Angie Thomas captured so much in one book. She tackled so much in one story that volumes of print media haven’t been able to accurately capture for years. WOW. (I also just saw the trailer for the movie for the first time today and it looks like it will be just as well done as the book!)

Vox – When I first heard about this book, I thought it would be a blatant attempt to recreate The Handmaid’s Tale. I’m glad that I was wrong. While the dystopian theme and female repression are prominent in both books, Vox is distinct and should not be overlooked. There is a reason everyone is talking about this book. (Get it, talking about it…)

I Let You Go – Plot twists for days, this was very well done. I’ve read other books where there are too many changes or twists that it seems completely implausible, but Mackintosh did a phenomenal job of connecting everything and keeping me engrossed throughout the entire story.

Random Read :

The Stars Now Unclaimed – Full confession, I went to the section of my local library where the “W”s are so I could see my own books on the shelf because that is an amazing feeling. The book I had requested hadn’t been delivered yet so I needed to find a substitute. The title, cover, and author’s last name caught my eye and what was a random selection has turned into one of the best books I’ve read this quarter. If you like Star Wars or really any good adventure with a rag-tag bunch who work together to save the Universe, then definitely check out Williams’ debut novel! I’ve never met this other Williams, but I am glad that we are rocking some epic sci-fi books and bringing some pride to our common surname.

There Might Be a Theme Here…: Just sayin’

A Darker Shade of Magic – I take the decision to read the first book in a series very seriously because I have a lot of books that I want to read and if I like the first book then I absolutely HAVE to read the next ones. Well, it looks like the next books in Schwab’s series are on my list now because A Darker Shade of Magic was excellent!

Timeline – There is a reason that Michael Crichton is listed as one of the greats. This fast-paced, fun adventure through time was incredible. If you have read any of Crichton’s other work then you know how engrossing his tales can be. (If you haven’t – what are you waiting for?) Based on how much I enjoyed this book, I plan to make it a goal to read through all of Crichton’s books.

A Tale for the Time Being – I first heard about this book on Anne Bogel’s What Should I Read Next podcast. This story was amazing and heartbreaking. I haven’t read a book that made me cry since Sirius Black was ended in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, but Ozeki built such a beautiful and sad character that I couldn’t help but feel for her. This was a beautiful piece of fiction and I would highly recommend it.

Astrophysics for People in a Hurry – This was an excellent, quick read that was both informative and incredibly entertaining. I laughed out loud at one point, Neil deGrasse Tyson is not only a genius but he communicates well with his audience and makes learning fun! Almost every reader I know loves to learn so be sure to add this to your TBR.

What are your top reads for 2018 so far? Have you picked up any popular books and did they live up to the hype?

Best Reads of Q1 | Best Reads of Q2