Another year, another stack of books which have made their way into my heart. I read less than usual in 2021, as I got myself a puppy and a promotion, but still managed 127 books and almost 40,000 pages!
As always, there are stand-out books, and this year there’s 17. It’s basically a Bookmark That longlist. You’re welcome.
The top spot goes to Will Carver, as the author’s given us two phenomenal books this year, The Beresford and Psychopaths Anonymous. Both fantastic, unique and messed-up, so top marks from me. I have nightmares about the Beresford; still re-read though.
The following top reads of the year are in no particular order (my reviews linked):
Non-fiction:
In Black and White by Alexandra Wilson – This was one of the first books I read in 2021 and I knew from the first page that it was going to be in this list. It’s a tough read but an enlightening and compelling memoir that everyone needs to read.
Thriller/Crime/Horror (my fave genre):
Shiver by Allie Reynolds – Not only is it an adrenaline-filled read, but it’s also set with a snowy backdrop and has multiple mouth-open-what-the-f-is-happening moments. Perfect.
Call Me Mummy by Tina Baker – not only one of my favourite people to follow on Twitter, the book itself is intense and brilliantly written – do not sleep on this!
You Love Me by Caroline Kepnes – I’m going to be one of those people – the book is better. I cannot get over the imagery of a particular theme and the way it concludes and just makes sense. Obsessed and brilliant.
The Last House on Needless Street by Catriona Ward – I can’t even put into words why I loved this book so much, but its dark and there’s a heckin’ good twist. If I could buy everyone a copy of this, I would.
The Man on Hackpen Hill by J. S. Monroe – This encompasses everything I want in a thriller. It’s smart, dark and like everything this author writes, exceptional.
The Quiet People by Paul Cleave – “can crime writers get away with murder?” – enough said.
The Cult by Abby Davies – it’s about a cult. Instant winner. All 5-star thriller boxes ticked easily.
Foe by Iain Reid – I had this on my bookcase for a good year before picking it up. Started and finished in a day. No faults. Just fantastic.
Deity by Matt Wesolowski – I get so excited when a new book in this series comes out and this one doesn’t disappoint. We need more Wesolowski and we need it now!
Dark Matter by Michelle Paver – it’s a short, quick ghost story but packs a punch. Sleep with the lights on after you read this.
Rosemary’s Baby by Ira Levin – if you haven’t read this yet, an fyi that my biggest regret with this was not reading it sooner, so there you go.
Fiction:
Ruthless Women by Melanie Blake – apart from one chapter near the end of the book which is a big no-no for my fears, I adored every second.
Everything Happens for a Reason by Katie Allen – Sausage dogs. Excellent writing. Fantastic plot. Need I say more?
Coming Home to Brightwater Bay by Holly Hepburn – LOVE. Love love love. The perfect escapism read! This book came when I needed it and lifted my spirits tenfold.
And that’s it! 2022, we’re ready for ya.
Let’s get social – if you’ve read any of these, or have any recommendations of books to read, you can find me on Twitter and Instagram – I’d love to chat with you!
If you like this style post, you can view my Top Reads of 2020 here, 2019 here, 2018 here and 2017 here. No other years, though, sorry about that.
