Welcome to another Top Ten Tuesday, a feature created by the Broke and the Bookish peeps. This week’s topic is our top ten books we have read in 2017 thus far. Let’s begin.
10. The Sun Is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon
This book stood out to me because of its exploration of race, ethnicity, and gender roles. It calls into question the different approaches to relationships and emotion. The confrontation of science and art marked this story as a superior one to many contemporaries I have read thus far in my reading journey.
9. The Raven King by Maggie Steifvater
While this ending is not my favorite, it still was an impacting read. It was very emotional to see where these characters end up. There were some surprises along the way, but mostly, my biggest joy was seeing Blue, Gansey, and the rest of the group take charge of their story and destiny.
8. The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkowski
I read the whole trilogy this year, and I was in awe of the first book. Like a lot. This book was less intense than the rest of the series, so I liked it a bit more. I liked not knowing what will happen to Kestrel and Arin.
7. Revenge and the Wild by Michelle Modesto
Ah, my lone experience with steampunk westerns has to make it on the list. I just can’t get over how well written this book was, even though it has cannibals/zombie creatures. But, I was so in love with the main character, and her love interest. I love the surprising turn that the book takes with certain newcomers in the town.
6. When the Moon was Ours by Anna Marie McLemore
Definitely up there on my list of favorite books of all time. It’s my favorite exploration of queerdom and culture. I found it very respectful in its approach of identity and belonging. Hopefully, this year, I will be able to read more from this author both in terms of old work and new releases.
5. Furthermore by Tahereh Mafi
I adore this woman, and her work will always be special to me. She just makes me happy. This book was a sweet, endearing, and moving story. It started somewhat slowly. However, the world building was delightful and refreshing. Yes, it was reminiscent of a Wonderland, but it was unique in its own way as well. It definitely stood on its own without being reliant on source material.
Very excited for its companion novel that will be released in October.
4. The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson
This book was heavily recommended. I hesitate to read things very often, because I worry about disappointments. This, though, was quickly engaging and it ended on such a heartbreaking note…I have had a hard time picking up the sequel out of sheer worry.
Sanderson killed off a very dear character to me. I do intend on picking up the rest of the series this years, God willing.
3. Lord of Shadows by Cassandra Clare
Of course this book is on here. I’m in awe of how Clare keeps the world she created interesting and ever-growing. She certainly improved in her craft as it can be seen in this book. Some deaths in the very end of the story alter the course of all series to come.
With all that heartbreak this caused, I cannot get over this story’s installment. I am often thinking of the characters, how they’re recovering, what will come their way next, and so on.
2. Six of Crows/Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo
While the Shadow and Bone trilogy was not my favorite, I was not expecting to love this duology at all. Now, it is one of my favorites. I cannot believe I had waited so long to read it. If you follow me on Tumblr, expect a crap ton (a measuring unit) of GIFs and moodboards/aesthetics inspired by this series.
1. A Conjuring of Light by V.E. Schwab
The highlight of this year so far has been my experience with this series. I have her Savage Song duology ready to be read this year as well. Lila Bard and Kel made quite the impression on me. I always think of them, of Rhy, Alucard, and my dearest Holland. They were such a fantastic group of characters on one heck of a quest. Absolutely in love with this series. Another one that’ll be loved on my Tumblr for a long time.
So glad you loved Six of Crows duology. I think the writing is just so much better than Grisha. And I have ACOl on my list as well. Such a great sequel.
I agree. Six of Crows duology is light-years away from The Grisha trilogy in terms of characterization, diction, plot. I cannot get over that duology.
AHHHH THIS LIST MAKES ME SO HAPPY AND EXCITED.?? ACOL was definitely the best of the year so far for me afjdskalfd it was perfect and painful and perfectly painful. Also I love love loved the Raven King <3 I love all the Stiefvater though so. ? Biased adoration! I also am super glad you love Six of Crows, Lord of Shadows, and The Winner's Crime too! Some of my favourites. And I can't wait to read When The Moon Was Ours.? I'm glad you've read so many great books!
CAIT, I AM SO GLAD THE LIST MADE YOU SMILE! ACOL was fantastic. I need to read more of Schwab’s work, though. And, I want to read more Steifvater as well. A lot of her work is on my shelves. Ooooh, you’re going to love When the Moon Was Ours! It’s so good. Thanks for stopping by, dude.
Yes to Six of Crows and The Winner’s Crime – those are definitely two of my favorite books so far as well. 🙂 Thanks for sharing and, as always, fabulous choices! <3
Thank you, sweet Zoe!