These are some of the most outstanding, unique, anticipated, and in some cases disappointing books that I read in 2018. Not all of them were published this year.
Most Anticipated Prequel
Ogre Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine: When the fairy Lucinda turns Evora, a young healer, into an ogre after she rejects her apprentice’s proposal of marriage, she has 62 days to accept another proposal or forever be an ogre. I found this book rather disappointing in the pacing and character development.
Most Amusing Fantasy
On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness by Andrew Peterson: The three Igiby siblings evade the evil Fangs of Dang while they discover family secrets and search for a hidden treasure. This story is full of character, and is a funny and engaging story with an intriguing world.
Most Remarkable Historical Setting
The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani: Nisha receives a diary on her 12th birthday and turns to writing to make sense of her world during the Partition of India in 1947.
Most Genres Mashed into a Historical-Fantasy-Regency-Spy-Mystery
Murder, Magic and What We Wore by Kelly Jones: Annis Whitworth can sew magical garments and uses her talent to leave her privileged lifestyle and open a dressmaking shop as a cover while she investigates her father’s suspicious death.
Most Potential
A Touch of Gold by Annie Sullivan: Kora must use her ability to sense gold to track down a thief who stole from the kingdom’s treasury in this tale full of pirates, thieves, danger, and gold. This book had a lot of potential, but was lacking in world-building and a good sense of time and place.
Most Powerful Voice
Audacity by Melanie Crowder: Clara Lemlich flees from Russia and begins working in a sweatshop where she is shocked by the horrific working conditions and leads other women in the fight against injustice. This book is written in verse, with powerful voice and a touching story.
Most Realistic Characters
You Bring the Distant Near by Mitali Perkins: This book follows three generations of Indian-American women and their struggles with culture, friendship, family, love, race, and identity.
Let’s Chat!
Have you read any of these books? What were some of your favorite (or least favorite) books this year?
This Stack of Books 