So so many good books this year. But there were several that stayed with me. Let’s continue the countdown with….
THE MARBURY LENS by Andrew Smith
Powerful. Twisted. Creepy. Heart pounding. I couldn’t read this book at night right before bed. Seriously. Yet I loved it. Great imagery. Storytelling. I will read it again.
OPEN MINDS by Susan Kaye Quinn
I didn’t know what to expect. I’ve read a lot of paranormals. But this one was different. Mind control. A girl figuring out where she belongs. Captivity. Mysteries. I can’t wait for the sequel. And did I mention the terrific writing?
Please complete your own count down in the comments. What are some of your favorites?
Hmmm… would find the Smith book too much for me, cowardy custard. I’m re-reading favourite classics, must be my age. Presently the Alexandria Quartet, if only I could write like that… sigh…
I’ve been eyeing the first one. Hmmm…creepy and you couldn’t read it at night. Makes me think. I have Susan’s book!! 🙂
I’ve had The Marbury Lens on my list for a while. I love a good creepy book!
My favorites of the year were The Princess Curse by Merrie Haskell — I think this one got lost amid so many recent 12 dancing princesses retellings, but it’s the best. It improved on the original and is just the kind of book I loved as a child and still do. Haskell deepened the story, adding many layers of myth, and she had a wonderful MC who was smart and brave and memorable.
I also loved Chime by Franny Billingsley. The writing was beautiful and haunting and lifted this one above the usual “teen witch” story, as it was described in Time during the National Book Awards debacle. It was a worthy contender.
The Maybury Lens is in my pile. I can’t wait to read it.
I have heard so much about Andrew Smith’s book that I need to buy and read it soon.
I love hearing about your favorite books of the year. Awesome.
Wow, I haven’t heard of either of these books. There were so many great books this year that it’s hard to pin point which would be my favorite. Although I did love Divergent.
Thanks for the shout out! 🙂
I just started Susan’s book last night and I’m loving it!
I’ve got Marbury Lens on my desk, but I’m not sure I’ll be able to read it – I’m such a wimp! 🙂
Those are two on my TBR list!!! I need to find time to read all the wonderful books I haven’t read yet!
Daughter of Smoke and Bone, definitely. SUCH a great book!
Hope you have a fantastic Christmas Laura! Have a great time reading, munching and being merry!
Angela @ The Bookshelf Muse
That Marbury Lens is everywhere, and I have to confess. I’m not sure I’d like it. But I’m almost done with Open Minds, and wow! I’m so impressed by Dr. Q! :o) <3
So true. Anything done in a poor spirit is not done well! I loved running the VBS b/c my heart has always been with kids but what I learned is that you can’t/shouldn’t run a VBS without the full support of a church behind you. children’s ministry should be a vision of the church or the leader will end up doing all the work! VBS is not a one person job!