2017 Reading List
One of my goals for 2017 was to read 12 novels. I know for some people that is a pretty low number, but for me, it was the perfect number. I knew that the second half of 2017 was going to be totally different with the arrival of Knox, so I didn’t want to set TOO big of a goal. If you really knew me you would know that I do not like to set any goal that I am not able to achieve. If there’s a chance it won’t happen, I don’t like to put it on my list as a goal. So, I wanted to be realistic with my goal of reading more this past year.
I am happy to report that I met my goal! And exceeded it.
I am pretty stoked about it.
I am going to write a mini review of some of my favorite books I read this past year. I wish I could go into detail about all of them, but I don’t think you’d want to read that I quite frankly, I don’t have the time.
My top favorite books from 2017:
Where'd You Go, Bernadette: this book was completely different from what I usually read. I typically like thrillers like Dark Places or The Girl On The Train, and this is nothing like that. It’s a very quirky read, written in [] style. It’s a compilation of emails, letters, text messages, and faxes that create a sweet story about a quirky Mom. It’s engaging, silly, and will make you LOL often.
Perfect for: at the beach or on a road trip.
The Kitchen House: this book is heartbreaking, eye opening, and an important read. The book follows the lives of two women raised on a plantation. One is white, one is black. The experiences of these women differ, but they both suffer incredible loss. You will cry and your heart will break, but you will fall in love with many of the characters and want to keep reading until it’s over.
Perfect for: reading by yourself with tissues nearby.
Big Little Lies: this book is definitely a popular book and you’ve probably read it or seen the HBO TV series. It’s a story about playground drama and how every person is holding onto their own secret lies. It’s engaging, fabulously written, and an important narrative about toxic relationships.
Perfect for: a book club or reading before bed.
The Husband’s Secret: written by the same author of Big Little Lies, this book also tells the story of multiple people, all intertwined in someway. It will suck you in after the first chapter and you might find yourself reading it in one day. It’s a page turner and will make you eager to read.
Perfect for: vacation or a lazy weekend
Crazy Rich Asians: this book is so good! It’s a story of an incredibly wealthy family in Singapore. What I loved most about reading it was learning SO much about Asian culture in Singapore and China. There are footnotes that explain cultural sayings, events, and food. You will find yourself aghast at the display of wealth and turning the pages to find out what happens next.
Perfect for: reading slowly or quickly. It’s a trilogy so make sure you’re ready to commit to the next two books (I am reading the second now!)
Just Mercy: this book should be mandatory for everyone to read. It’s hard to read, but it’s worth it. It is about the criminal justice system in America and how it has failed to provide justice for so many children, women, and men. It’s chilling and heartbreaking. But very good.
Perfect for: a book club or when you’re ready for a serious read.
Other books I read: I Let You Go, The Royal We, Eligible, The Assistants, Everything I Never Told You, and Since We Fell.
Books I on my reading list: Three Wishes, Talking as Fast As I Can, China Rich Girlfriend, Rich People Problems, Lie to Me, and All The Missing Girls.
What did you read this year? What books are on your reading list? Did you set a goal for how many books you wanted to read this past year?
Let me know if the comments below! I love hearing from you.
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