Jumping off the list I started back in July, here are my picks for my favorite reads of 2012.
Okay, I know that doesn't make much sense to pick two when I say 'best period.' But I simply can't forget either of these incredible books. And plus since The Scorpio Races is technically a 2011 book, I'm gonna say it totally counts. I've already read these two multiple times this year alone and I can see myself returning to them time and again.
Goodness. Ms. Peterfreund hit it out of the universe (pun intended) with this spot-on dystopian(!) retelling of Persuasion. Whenever I look at this book it just makes me feel sparkly all over.
This one could also get the best retelling award but newbie A.C. Gaughen just blew me away with her retelling of Robin Hood wherein Will Scarlet is actually a tough-talking, knife-wielding girl. I KNOW!
I know, I know. This pick is simply no fair since I've never even reviewed a single October Daye book on this here bloggy. Shameful. Especially since every single book in this series is witty, addictive, and so well researched. But there really is something special about Ashes of Honor. Perhaps it has sometime to do with a certain feline...hhmmmm? And then there's Fair Game -- COMPLETELY changed my opinion of the entire Alpha & Omega series. Cannot wait for more.
This pick should really come as no surprise to anybody. Juliet Marillier is one of my go-to authors and her newest series is so. very. good. Can't wait for Neryn. And Flint.
How is it that TWO Seanan McGuire's books have made my best of list yet I have reviewed neither? *headdesk* It simply must be because this woman can seriously write. Her family dynamics are superb and the action with smack you upside the head with its unexpectedness. Oh, how it ripped my heart in two. In a good way, that is.
It seems I read quite a few oldies this year, but The Wind-Witch crept up on me with its lush prose and tales of Druyan's quiet determination. How could I not love this gripping and lovely story? *sigh* Plus it makes me want to go hop on a horse.
I should say specifically his Westmark trilogy. How could I have gone through my entire youth with no kindly teacher, no librarian or no friend recommending his books to me?!? Alexander's brilliant turn of phrase and complicated characters utterly cemented this oldie onto my list of good books forever.
For their exceptional characters and unique storytelling abilities, Honorable Mentions should go to:
There you have it. The books I just haven't managed to forget (nor do I want to).
What's on your list?
