One of the best things I did for myself in 2017 was to pursue reading again. A lifelong bibliophile, I find that I feel happiest when I can sink into a book, and I’m on a major library binge (hello, all the free books I can devour!).  I’m primarily a fiction fan, although I’ve been known to diverge from time to time, but I love seeing what other people are reading about and thought you might enjoy some of my favorites.

DIGITALLY ORGANIZE YOUR FAVORITE BOOKS

Oh, a quick tip on how to keep track of all those books. I’m always hearing recommendations from people, but I would fail to either remember the title when standing in the bookshop, staring at the shelves.  Last year, I signed up for Goodreads on the recommendation of a friend and and downloaded the app to my phone so I can always have my list handy. It’s helped me catalog all the books I’ve previously read, want to read, or hear about in passing from friends or podcasts. And when I’m at the library looking for something, it’s easy for me to put a reserve in for something from the list and have it ready to pick up at my local branch in a couple of days.

Like almost everything, you can connect it with your Facebook friends and see recommendations from them, as well as follow along with your favorite authors. The reviews have also been handy, especially when I’m reallllly having a hard time with getting through a book (or when I’ve absolutely HATED something).  Plus there’s also a cool reading challenge that can help spur on your reading goals for 2018.

MY 2017 FAVORITES

Not everything I read in 2017 was a winner; there were several duds too. But I clocked in over 30 books and a few came away as far & above favorites.

BEST FICTION

A Gentleman in Moscow: A Novel

Quirky, charming and heartfelt – I loved the depth of the main character and I’ve also found lately that I’m drawn to stories set in Russia. All around a great read, if a bit slow in the middle.

BEST SELF-HELP

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life

Look, I’m clutching my pearls right now to even recommend this book outloud but it really is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time that aligns closest with my own personal MO. Accept responsibility for your life, don’t be a victim, and treat people well. I don’t know that I could handle listening to this book on Audible (too many f-bombs for my goody twoshoe brain), but if you can get past it, there are some solid gems in here.

FUNNIEST READS

Crazy Rich Asians

It’s not a new book, but I devoured not only this one but the following two sequels in no time flat. I even got my husband and mother in law on board to read them too and now we can’t wait for the movie. Such a great trilogy. Sharp, witty and sarcastic.

BEST BEACH READ

Along the Infinite Sea

After I read this, I binged on all of Beatriz Williams’ books, but this one still remains my favorite, probably for my attachment to the setting in the south of France.

BEST BOOK THAT EVERYONE ALREADY READ BUT ME

Brooklyn

Did you see this movie? I loved it, but I loved the book even more (as usual). Thoughtful, and an interesting take on a woman’s perspective even though it was written by a man. There were times I wish it had more of a female point of view, but overall, beautifully rendered.

BEST GUILTY PLEASURE

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo: A Novel

I’m still thinking about this dishy fictional novel about a Hollywood icon telling the story of her life to a relatively unknown writer. You won’t forget this one – it’s another one you won’t be able to put down.

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