While I read mostly mysteries, thrillers, and gothics this year, there were a few stand out books of other genres I wanted to draw attention to. These weren’t all published in 2021 but I did read them all this year. Here they are in no particular order:
1. What Big Teeth
I don’t know whether to consider this gothic or fantasy or both, but it easily slid to the top of the list of my all time favorite books. As soon as I finished reading my borrowed library copy, I bought a copy of my own to reread over and over as much as I want. Lovely book for fans of the Addams family.
2. The Magicians
Lev Grossman’s fantasy series pulled me out of a very rough place this year and got me through the loss of someone dear to me. It made me want to read again, to see wonder in the world. I ended up reading 225 books this year and it really started with this one. If you want fantasy that looks unflinchingly at the world and demands that you still see the wonder in it, this is the book for you.
3. Vanessa Yu’s Magical Paris Tea Shop
Deeply lovely book which, fittingly, felt like a nice cup of tea to read. It warmed me from the inside out and I plan to read everything the author writes from now on.
4. The Viscount Who Loved Me
The basis for the upcoming second season of Bridgerton, and so far my favorite book in that series (though I still have a few left to read). Absolutely lovable and a joy to read.
5. One Last Stop
A truly wonderful romance from the author of Red White and Royal Blue, and an absolute can’t miss. Beautiful and moving and more funny than I expected. I laughed, I cried, I recommended it to everyone I speak to.
6. Any Way the Wind Blows
The fourth book in the Carry On series from Rainbow Rowell, this book hit like a warm blanket after a cold storm. Loved it immensely.
7. Small Favors
If you want to feel a little bit stuck in the world of a book for days after finishing it, this is a perfect choice for you. Absolutely enthralling, this one is perfect to read on a chilly winter night.
8. The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics
Fantastic romance novel, so achingly lovely you’ll gasp from the emotional tidal wave of reading it. I adored the characters and I can’t wait to read more from the same author.
9. The Lost Apothecary
This one debatably could’ve gone on my mystery list, but it felt like it defied genre a bit and I’ve put it on this list instead. The dual timelines and incredible characters were quite well done. I absolutely loved it.
10. The Hollow Places
A lovely magical realism novel with great characters, spooky moments that build the tension perfectly, and beautiful prose all the way through.
I hope everyone reading has a lovely new year, and if you’re looking for books to read, the ones on this list and my other 2021 top ten list are all great picks. Support your local libraries and independent book stores!
Happy reading!
Kat Pollock 