As the calendar pages turn and a new year unfolds, there’s one annual tradition I eagerly anticipate sharing with you: my carefully curated list of must-read books. This year, for 2019, I’ve received an overwhelming number of requests for my top book recommendations, a testament to our shared passion for diving into compelling stories and thought-provoking narratives. It brings me immense joy to connect with fellow bibliophiles and guide you towards your next literary adventure.
Every year, I dedicate time to sifting through countless titles, buzz-worthy releases, and hidden gems to bring you a selection that promises to enrich your reading experience. Whether you’re a seasoned bookworm with an ever-growing To Be Read (TBR) pile or just looking for a captivating story to kickstart your year, this list is designed with you in mind. You can add these fantastic picks to your virtual queue or head straight to your local bookstore to begin your journey.
While I typically collaborate with a blogging friend on this annual feature, this year I’m flying solo, eager to share my personal insights directly with you. I must offer my sincerest apologies for the slight delay in getting this post live; the holiday season, as many of you likely experienced, turned out to be quite the whirlwind! But rest assured, the wait is over, and these recommendations are well worth it.
Before we delve into the literary treasures of 2019, you might also be interested in exploring my selections from previous years. Dive into more fantastic reads with my books to read in 2021 and Books You Should Read in 2020. Each list is packed with stories waiting to be discovered.
Now, settle in with your favorite warm beverage – whether it’s a steaming cup of coffee, a comforting mug of tea, or any other beloved drink. Take a moment to relax and prepare to be inspired as we unveil my top picks for the books you absolutely should read in 2019. I genuinely hope you find several new favorites among these suggestions and that your reading year is filled with endless enjoyment and discovery!
Books You Should Read in 2019: Your Essential Reading List
Curating a list of “must-read” books is always an exciting endeavor. For 2019, my selection reflects a blend of critically acclaimed works, popular bestsellers that have captured the public’s imagination, and compelling narratives that promise to stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page. These books span a variety of genres, offering something for every taste – from gripping thrillers and profound literary fiction to captivating historical tales and enlightening non-fiction. Each title has been chosen for its ability to transport, educate, or simply provide an unforgettable reading experience. Get ready to update your wish list!
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1. Three Days Missing by Kimberly Belle
2. When the Lights Go Out by Mary Kubica
3. Lies by TM Logan
4. The Woman in the Window by AJ Finn
5. The Lost Girls of Camp Forevermore by Kim Fu
The first few entries on our list immediately plunge us into the thrilling world of **psychological suspense**. Books like Kimberly Belle’s Three Days Missing, Mary Kubica’s When the Lights Go Out, and TM Logan’s Lies are masterful at crafting intricate plots filled with twists, turns, and unreliable narrators. These titles are perfect for readers who love a good mystery, enjoy piecing together clues, and appreciate a story that keeps them guessing until the very last page. Similarly, AJ Finn’s The Woman in the Window became an instant sensation for its gripping portrayal of psychological distress and shocking revelations. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush wrapped in a literary package, these books are your go-to.
6. The Death of Mrs. Westaway by Ruth Ware
7. The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena
8. Faithful by Alice Hoffman
9. Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell
10. The Clockmaker’s Daughter by Kate Morton
Continuing our exploration, we encounter more captivating thrillers such as Ruth Ware’s atmospheric The Death of Mrs. Westaway and Shari Lapena’s chilling domestic suspense in The Couple Next Door, both renowned for their ability to build palpable tension and deliver unforgettable conclusions. Beyond the realm of suspense, we find literary gems like Alice Hoffman’s Faithful, a story that delves deep into themes of resilience and second chances. Lisa Jewell’s Then She Was Gone masterfully combines mystery with profound emotional depth, exploring the aftermath of loss and the enduring power of hope. And for lovers of rich, evocative storytelling, Kate Morton’s The Clockmaker’s Daughter offers a sweeping narrative that intertwines past and present with breathtaking artistry, perfect for those who enjoy historical fiction laced with family secrets and beautiful settings.
11. The Home for Unwanted Girls by Joanna Goodman
12. The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
13. The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris
14. A Spark of Light by Jodi Picoult
15. Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty
This segment of our list showcases powerful narratives that often tackle weighty themes, making them ideal for book club discussions or introspective reading. Joanna Goodman’s The Home for Unwanted Girls is a poignant work of historical fiction, shedding light on a darker chapter of history with immense empathy and grace. Kristin Hannah’s The Great Alone is a sweeping, emotionally charged saga set against the rugged backdrop of Alaska, exploring themes of survival, family, and resilience. Heather Morris’s The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a heartbreaking yet ultimately uplifting true story of love and hope amidst unimaginable horror, a testament to the enduring human spirit. Jodi Picoult continues to challenge readers with ethically complex dilemmas in A Spark of Light, and Liane Moriarty brings her signature wit and insight to Nine Perfect Strangers, an engaging story of a group of disparate individuals seeking transformation at a wellness retreat. These books are not just stories; they are experiences that linger.
16. She Lies in Wait by Gytha Lodge
17. Educated by Tara Westover
18. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
19. An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
20. The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
The variety continues to captivate in this next set of recommendations. Gytha Lodge’s She Lies in Wait offers another compelling entry into the crime fiction genre, masterfully weaving together past and present to solve a decades-old mystery. A standout non-fiction title, Tara Westover’s memoir Educated, captivated readers worldwide with its inspiring story of resilience, intellect, and the pursuit of knowledge against all odds. For those who crave epic fantasy, Tomi Adeyemi’s Children of Blood and Bone delivers a vibrant and powerful narrative rooted in West African mythology, perfect for young adult and adult fantasy enthusiasts alike. Tayari Jones’s An American Marriage is a profound and moving exploration of love, injustice, and the devastating impact of the prison system on individuals and relationships. Finally, Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen’s The Wife Between Us proves that domestic thrillers were still very much a force in 2019, with its clever narrative structure and shocking revelations.
21. The Chalk Man by C.J. Tudor
22. The Favorite Sister by Jessica Knoll
23. Circe by Madeline Miller
24. Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott
25. The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
As we approach the final stretch of our list, the literary landscape remains incredibly rich and varied. C.J. Tudor’s The Chalk Man provides another dose of chilling suspense, perfect for readers who enjoy stories with a strong sense of place and a dark secret at their heart. Jessica Knoll’s The Favorite Sister dives into the cutthroat world of reality television and complex female relationships, offering a sharp and engaging read. Madeline Miller’s Circe stands out as a magnificent retelling of Greek mythology, breathing new life into an ancient sorceress with incredible depth and humanity. For a poignant contemporary read, Rachael Lippincott’s Five Feet Apart explores the challenges of young love amidst serious health issues, a beautifully emotional story. And Kate Quinn’s The Alice Network takes us back to the compelling world of historical fiction, following two women from different eras whose lives are intertwined by a tale of espionage and resilience during the World Wars.
26. The Other Woman by Sandie Jones
27. Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
28. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
29. Evicted by Matthew Desmond
30. The Witch’s Daughter by Paula Brackston
To round out our 2019 recommendations, we have a diverse collection that ensures there’s truly something for everyone. Sandie Jones’s The Other Woman serves up another twisty domestic thriller, exploring the darker side of family dynamics and secrets. Celeste Ng’s Little Fires Everywhere captivated readers with its intricate portrayal of motherhood, class, and racial tension, sparking important conversations. Delia Owens’s debut novel, Where the Crawdads Sing, became a literary phenomenon, enchanting millions with its lyrical prose, compelling mystery, and deep connection to the natural world. On the non-fiction front, Matthew Desmond’s Pulitzer Prize-winning Evicted offers a vital and urgent examination of poverty and housing in America, a crucial read for understanding contemporary social issues. Finally, Paula Brackston’s The Witch’s Daughter offers a touch of magical realism and historical fantasy, perfect for those who enjoy a blend of enchanting folklore and compelling storytelling. These final five books brilliantly encapsulate the breadth and depth of the literary offerings from 2019.
As you embark on your reading journey through these fantastic titles, remember that books are not just pages bound together; they are gateways to new worlds, different perspectives, and profound understanding. Each book on this list has the potential to become a cherished favorite, a conversation starter, or a powerful source of inspiration. Don’t hesitate to pick up a genre you might not typically explore – you might just discover a new passion!
For those living in Canada who are always on the lookout for new ways to expand their personal libraries, don’t forget to visit my comprehensive guide to subscription boxes for Canadian book lovers. It’s a fantastic resource for discovering curated reads and literary surprises delivered right to your door.
And as we look ahead, you can always find more great suggestions for your reading list. Make sure to check out my books to read in 2022 for even more literary adventures.
Now, I turn it over to you, my fellow readers. After exploring this exciting list, which books from this list do you want to read in 2019? Share your top picks and let’s get the conversation flowing about the incredible stories awaiting us this year!