I set out to write a post about the top ten books I read this year, but found that I wound up with a list of 20 books, ten of which were mysteries or other vaguely spooky things, so I decided they should get a list of their own.
In no particular order, because I couldn’t possibly decide which books are the best of the best, here are the ten books I most enjoyed being spooked and thrilled by this year. They were not all published this year, but I did read them all this year.
1. If I Disappear
Kept me rushing towards the end and exclaiming out loud at each new twist. Super fun read!
2. Dial A For Aunties
I hadn’t thought I could laugh so hard, much less at a book that revolves around a murder. I plan to read this one again anytime I need a pick-me-up.
3. The Wife Upstairs
Easily the best modern take on Jane Eyre I’ve read, compulsively readable and a real pleasure. I can’t wait to see what the author does next.
4. The Wife Stalker
If you like thinking you’ve got a plot figured out and then being completely surprised by the ending, give this one a try and see if you are gripped by the sudden need to read everything else the author has ever written; I certainly was.
5. Don’t Look For Me
Absolutely nail biting suspense all the way through. This was another one that made me pick up and read several more by the author.
6. Behind the Red Door
I wish I could erase the memory of this one just so I could read it for the first time again. Memorable and full of incredibly well plotted twists.
7. Don’t Tell a Soul
Gothic and lovely, with a central mystery that ties up so satisfyingly you’ll want to read it again and again. The book equivalent of a fantastic meal, leaves you utterly content.
8. The Last House on Needless Street
If you’re reading this one and find yourself thinking “oh I know where this is going and I’m a little disappointed” no, you don’t, it’s going to surprise you. Read to the end and I dare you not to yell “oh my god, what?!” at least a few times near the end.
9. Summer Sons
One of the best gothics I’ve read in a long time, even in a year when I came across so many fun gothics to read. Memorable characters impossible not to root for.
10. The Death of Jane Lawrence
If Crimson Peak were a Doctor Who episode I imagine it would play out something like this book, which I enjoyed so thoroughly I immediately recommended it to several friends. I will be reading this one over again for many years to come.
I hope everyone has a great new year, and if you haven’t read the books on this list yet, I highly recommend looking for them at your local library or independent bookstore. Remember, most libraries allow digital checkouts of audiobooks, and many of the books on this list are even more delightful as audiobooks.
Happy reading!
Kat Pollock 