There are some books that just will not leave my brain, for better or worse. This is a list of books that have strongly influenced me, and kept me thinking long after I put them down.
These are in no particular order, and with some quick tidbits about what captivated me.
Dark academia/historical fiction/fantasy pulled me in. Criticism on colonialism, an underground resistance, and deeply moving characters kept me.
The combo of sci-fi and thriller kept me guessing to the end. The premise regularly has me thinking about what different worlds there might be based on each decision I make.
The Mistborn Trilogy by Brandon Sanderson
There’s so many layers to this fantasy. What really intrigues me about Sanderson’s books in general is the religious systems he builds and the interesting ways his characters navigate them.
An absolute mind-twister. Reading this book was truly an experience, and it made me think about the different ways that we can be happy in our lives.
I love all the Red Rising books, but this one really stole the show for me. An epic tale will always pull my heartstrings.
Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
This contemporary fiction stuck with me more than I thought a story about video games would. An incredible story about what it takes to maintain friendship through the twists of life.
A short and tragic tale, infused with beautiful imagery that will make you feel drawn in. It illuminates how much society loves to put women into neat boxes, even if it’s killing them.
How to Be Eaten by Maria Adelmann
This book has big shock-factor. It’s fairly dark and a bit twisted, but the concept of bringing fairy tales into a modern day setting is unique and very well done.
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
I never expected to cry as much as I did when I first picked this up. It was worth every tear, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Having read (or been read) Shakespeare for most of my life, I enjoyed getting to know him and his life through a different lense.
Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen
It’s a classic for a reason. I can’t say how many times I’ve read this, but every time the humor blows me away. I will never tire of this story.
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