I always fall a little short on the number of books I’d like to read in a year. Sometimes, I feel good if I just manage to read one book a month for book club. This year, I did pretty well. Read all but one of my book club selections, read several bestsellers, and too many romance and holiday books to count on my Kindle!
There were a few that I started but just couldn’t get into and did not finish. Unless it’s for book club, these days I don’t struggle through books I’m not enjoying. Too many books, too little time for that! I won’t name names because they might appeal to other readers. I tend to choose books about people and relationships — family drama, parenting, romance, friendship.
This year for book club, I moved out of my comfort zone to read a couple of books: I mostly enjoyed Rock Paper Scissors, which is categorized as a domestic thriller. Definitely not in my wheelhouse. But it had some interesting twists and authorial mechanics. Fast Girls is a historical sports fiction. Never would I pick that up on my own. But, again, it was an interesting read. While the writing wasn’t the smoothest, the story of these young women runners held my interest.
My top reads for 2022, in no particular order, are as follows:
The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel
A WWII story. I told myself I was tired of reading WWII novels. There are so many! But this one intrigued me and despite one annoying character, I really liked it. Have a tissue ready at the end!
The Magic of Found Objects by Maddie Dawson
A daughter struggles with understanding her fun, quirky mom. I really liked these characters and the examination of family structure (or lack of).
The Gunkle by Steven Rowley
This book surprised me. Despite it dealing with some heavy topics (family tragedy), it also made me laugh out loud. I’m recommending it to my book club this year.
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
Tough read, but the question/mystery of it kept me turning the pages.
The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
Another surprise! Talk about some quirky characters–this one has many! And a touch of magical realism. It’s categorized as gay fantasy. One reviewer calls it a modern day fairy tale. I think that’s accurate.
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
About a woman ahead of her time fighting for recognition in the field of science. Had some nice moments and some annoying moments, but worth the read. 🙂
Laura Ingalls is Ruining my Life by Shelley Tougas
This one is actually a young adult book, which I don’t typically read. But I was a huge fan of Laura Ingalls Wilder books growing up, so the title surprised me and drew me in. It turned out to be a story about some topics I love — relationships and family dynamics.
It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
A good, solid people/relationship story with a twist at the end. Lots to discuss in this one. It’s categorized as women’s fiction, but includes a couple of love story threads.
So, if you’re looking for books to read in the new year, hope these give you some ideas. I’m always looking for recommendations. Do you have any must-reads to share? Happy reading and best wishes in 2023!
Darlene
