I struggle with rating books these days. Usually, I rate books based on how moved I am by the writing, story, and characters. Books that will have me deep in thought or find a way to sneak into every conversation for weeks. Those books easily get and deserve my 5 stars. I read a few really good books this year and In this post, I’ll be sharing my 5 star reads of 2021.
Here are my 5 star reads of 2021…
In no particular order….
The Push by Ashley Audrain
Still one of my favorite mystery novels ever. I am a huge fan of writers who explore motherhood, especially mother-daughter relationships in a nuanced way. As a realist, I tend to gravitate towards books that are as realistic and authentic as possible in depicting domestic issues. This book had me riveted from the first few pages and I have not been able to stop recommending it. Read my review here.
Butter Honey Pig Bread by Francesca Ekwuyasi
This book is probably the most talked about book on BookstagramNigeria and it’s completely worth the hype. It’s such a stunning debut novel and I’m in awe of how the writer was able to explore so much without it being cumbersome. I wrote a review here.
The Invisible Life Of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
I still tell people how much I regret delaying to read this. It was sitting on my shelf for months after I bought it. The size was a bit intimidating but I’m glad I eventually picked it up. Historical fiction is such a tough genre to write and the way this author does it so beautifully is amazing. I’m still in awe of the fantastic storytelling! Read some quotes from the book here.
Seven Days In June by Tia Williams
When I tell you it’s probably my favorite debut novel, know that I mean it with everything in me. I started reading this without reading the synopsis and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved it right from the first page. It’s a book that stays with you for a long time. Here is my review of the book.
Notes on Grief by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
It’s no secret that I love Chimamanda’s books. I will likely read anything she writes. This book explored the complexities of grief. Everything was palpable; the pain, the loss, the guilt, and the love. Here are some quotes from this book.
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
This is Possibly my favorite romance novel in 2021. The characters, the story, the love, the romance! Everything about this book worked. I still can’t believe it’s fiction and I’m hoping to wake up one day and find out these characters are real and I can keep up with them. You can read my review here.
You and Me on Vacation by Emily Henry
I read the eARC of this book and I really liked it. The finished product is probably even better! Emily Henry is one of my auto-read romance writers and I was pleased to see she didn’t disappoint me. If you like the besties to lovers trope, pick this up.
The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary
The flat share is also one of my most recommended books this year. I just loved how easy it was to read and how adorable the characters were. I wrote a review here.
All About Love by Bell Hooks
I rarely read nonfiction books but this one is definitely a book I’ll always cherish. Not only because it was a gift from a very good friend but because it made me examine myself and reevaluate what love really means. I wrote a review here. You can also read some quotes from the book.
Just As I Am by Cicely Tyson
Another nonfiction to make the list. I’ve always admired Cicely Tyson but I sadly didn’t keep up with her. I love memoirs of people who have in their own little way made a difference. So, listening to her narrate her story and talk about her life was inspiring. It’s one of the memoirs I recommend listening to. Here is a review I wrote and some quotes from the book. I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.
Aces of spades by Faridah Abike-Iyimide
I read the eARC of this book and I absolutely enjoyed reading it. As a fan of gossip girl/Pretty little liars, I can categorically say this was well-written. (The author mentioned being inspired by Gossip girl). The story kept unfolding with twists and turns and at every point, I was intrigued and present! It was a plus that the main character is Nigerian. I’m always here for that. It’s not just a YA book with an invisible bully, the author does well to explore some crucial themes like racism, sexuality, and friendship. I reckon the finished product is even better than the ARC. So, you better go read it.
I will update this list at the end of the year but I’m not sure I’ll read much in the next two weeks.
These are books I’ll always recommend so feel free to add them to your To-be-read list.
Wishing everyone a pleasant week.
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