Favorite Books of 2017

Favorite Books: 

2017

Hello Everyone! 

I am finally back to give you my list of my favorite reads of 2017! In total, at this moment in time, December 29th 2017, I have read twenty-four books. To many that is very few books, however, I am sure I have read more and just not logged them on Goodreads. Though, for the life of me I cannot figure out which books those are. This list will encompass six novels which I read this year and absolutely loved! These are ranked in order of my enjoyment, though each of these books are astounding works of fiction that I want everyone to read ASAP.

1.  War & Peace by: Leo Tolstoy
   
1.  This is one of the most well known classic novels ever published. This tome follows many families through the 1812 Napoleonic invasion of Russia, while discussing social and political changes occuring during this time. To some this may sound boring and dry, though I assure you it is nothing of the sort. My review of this novel can be found here: War & Peace Review. Characters such as Pierre, Natasha, and Andrei will give any reader food for thought on morality, religion, and the meaning of life. These characters will forever be in my mind. Pierre's loving and clumsy nature, as well as his introspective thought process mirrored a lot of my own personality traits, which further helped me to connect with this 19th century Russian classic. Nothing about this book is short, or easy, but I assure you the characters and thought provoking discussions covered in this novel will captivate you for hours!
2. The Secret History by: Donna Tart

1. I read this novel recently, and was instantly captured by the amazing writing style and gorgeous setting. This novel is set in my home state of Vermont at a local liberal arts college, where a murder has occured between a group of friends. Tartt's command of the written word will captivate everyone who picks up this book! This novel spins the classic "Who done it?" mystery novel into an innovative "Why done it?" novel. This "Why done it?" style is crucial to this book's success; from the beginning you know who has committed the murder and who died which allows Tartt to explore her many themes. Between the enchanting writing, vivid characters, and stunning setting you will not be able to put this book down! The audiobook of this novel is read by the author which made the novel even more haunting and beautiful. The Secret History Review
3.  Autumn by: Ali Smith
   
1. This novel was published in 2016 as a part of Smith's Seasonal Quartet discussing current issues in politics, and societal issues. This particular novel discusses the topic of Brexit in Great Britain. Yes, yes, you may be wondering what kind of emotional connection and compassion a small town adult from the United States may get from this blatantly British novel, everything, absolutely everything is the answer. With the global political changes which occured in 2017 I connected with the feeling of confusion and loss that Smith discusses in this novel. Smith discusses many other themes such as relationships between young and old, Brexit, and life & death. Smith has a very unique and jarring writing style that everyone may not enjoy, so read this with caution. Autumn Review
4.  Elmet by: Fiona Mozley 
   
1. This debut novel was nominated, and shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize of 2017. Mozley is new to the literary stage, hence this being her debut novel, and I cannot wait to see what she does next. This novel follows a family who live a rather bizarre life secluded from society in rural Britain. This novel has some unnerving plot points that will catch any reader off guard. If you are looking for an amazing read with unpredictable twists and charming characters, this is the book for you. Elmet is best read without knowing much about the plot. Elmet Review
5. Planetfall by: Emma Newman

1. This book is a fascinating sci-fi romp that deals with heavy topics such as mental health and religion in an engaging and thrilling read! Newman is able to create worlds which I will happily delve into to escape the real world mayhem. Newman has fun and phenomenally complex characters that will make any reader laugh, smile, and want to chat with them for hours. Planetfall Review

That is it... 2017 is finally over and if I am completely honest I am happy that we are another year older and hopefully people become another year wiser. These books are my favorite novels which I have read this year, and I hope that each and everyone of you finds a new favorite among this list. I will be back on New Year's Eve to report on my 2018 Goals for blogging and reading, be sure to check in again soon! 

Happy Reading!