My Favorite Books of 2019

My reading this year has been more of quality than quantity. I didn’t read as many books as I normally do, but most of the ones I read have been top-notch.

Disclaimer: This is a list of the best books I read in 2019, not necessarily published in 2019.

1. The Hungry Tide by Amitav Ghosh – After reading this book, I understood that he is my next favorite binge-able author. I plan to read every book by him.
2. Tipping the Velvet by Sarah Waters – OMG, such a wild ride through the Victorian times seen through a queer lens. Very enjoyable!
3. Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng – My review of this book is a bit meh, but this book was very enjoyable, and it got me thinking. One of the better women’s fiction out there.
4. 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami – This is probably one of the thickest books I read this year. Surprisingly, it was also extremely easy reading and entertaining. I couldn’t put this book down.
5. The Three Body Problem by Cixin Liu – This book started out a bit too esoteric for me, but soon I was immersed into the three body problem. This book was a hard book to read it, but totally worth it in the end.
6. Antony and Cleopatra by Colleen McCullough – I started this book not knowing much (or even too interested) about ancient Rome, and I ended this book absolutely obsessed. I am now keen to read the entire Masters of Rome series she has authored. On my TBR list.
7. The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton – This book is light women’s fiction. Normally I read and forget about these books. But this one was memorable. I loved the historical angle and the love triangle between the three main characters was very nicely and thoughtfully done.
8. Dissolution by C.J.Sansom – Combining history and mystery, this book set in a monastery during Henry VIII’s times has a very Name of the Rose vibe to it (in a good way).
9. Milkman by Anna Burns – This was hard reading at first. I struggled with the stream of consciousness style, but once I got into the rhythm, this was a book I enjoyed thoroughly. Another hard to read book, which is worth the time investment. Easily my favorite book of the year!
10. The Death of Mrs. Westaway by Ruth Ware – I love a good, spooky, atmospheric mystery and this one delivered on all three fronts.

Overall, it’s been a great reading year. I didn’t read too many books, but being picky has paid off. Refusing review copies has also worked for me. It allows me to just enjoy a book without stressing about the review.

How has your reading been this year? If you have a “best of” post up, leave a link in the comments, and I’d be happy to check out your list.