I will add a warning, a lot of my favorite reads have so many grammatical errors, it's not even funny. But I find them to have an interesting plot and characters that are memorable, I can't find myself caring too much.
Now, I understand the books on this list should probably be wayyy different. Some people expect to see Harry Potter or The Hunger Games or Twilight (which are all fantastic novels) or even the classics, such as The Great Gatsby or Frankenstein, or Pride and Prejudice. While those are all great reads and probably should be on my top ten list, they're not my all-time favorite go-tos. Some of these books/series are ones that I doubt many people have even heard of. I read the most books when I was in junior high, searching up free Amazon Kindle eBooks, which some are 100% on this list. So, these all hold a special place in my heart and are the ones I usually go to when I need a metaphorical hug from an old friend.
1. Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
The
first time I ever read this book was in my senior year of high school and it
was required for class. The novel is a dystopian work, which is heavily
influenced by George Orwell’s 1984, which is another enjoyable read and focuses on a genetically engineered
society where life is painless and unmeaningful. What caught my attention while
reading this story was how absurd it was. Many creators use the idea of technology
controlling society, but Huxley took a more realistic approach. Instead of only
injecting people with microchips or whatever, there is a control of
reproduction through technology and medical intervention, such as surgically
removing reproductive organs, the Bokanovsky Process (the fictional process of
human cloning), hypnopaedic conditioning, and soma (a drug used to mimic a
depressant). Huxley satirizes the idea of utopias by showing how the people of
World State are happy, but their lives, especially without history, religion,
art, and family, are meaningless. The drug soma is used to keep the citizens
obedient and submissive, but
it also needs frequent maintenance. The
unyielding caste system is designed to serve a small minority, while lower
classes have been conditioned to accept their oppression. Huxley exposes the
disturbing steps necessary to achieve a utopia, which is alarming and begs the
question: could this be possible? The story’s tone is emotionless and cynical,
which mimics the characters in the story, hinting that maybe a utopian world
should be held at arm's length or just left alone altogether.
2. The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
"The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison is a highly acclaimed and powerful book that delves into themes of race, identity, and beauty. It is widely regarded as a significant piece of literature due to its exceptional storytelling, rich character development, and thought-provoking exploration of societal issues. Morrison's masterful writing style captivates readers, drawing them into the lives of her characters and immersing them in the harsh realities they face. Through the poignant story of young Pecola Breedlove and her yearning for blue eyes, Morrison tackles complex topics such as internalized racism, beauty standards, and the damaging effects of societal prejudices. The novel challenges readers to confront their own biases and examine the destructive impact of racism on individuals and communities. Something I especially loved about this book was the skillful incorporation of dialect as a narrative technique. Morrison uses dialect to add depth and authenticity to her characters, capturing the essence of their identity and experiences. By representing speech patterns and intonation in their dialect, Morrison portrays the authenticity and relatability of her characters, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the story and connect with the emotions portrayed. Morrison's incorporation of dialect brings attention to the unique linguistic and cultural aspects of her characters' lives and challenges the notion of linguistic superiority.
3. Hush Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
I loved this book and thought it was thrilling and captivating, taking readers on a suspenseful journey into the supernatural world of fallen angels. With its intriguing plot, dynamic characters, and atmospheric setting, the novel has garnered a dedicated following and has become a popular choice among fans of young adult fantasy. The story follows Nora Grey, an ordinary teenage girl whose life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes entangled with the enigmatic Patch Cipriano, a fallen angel with a mysterious past. Fitzpatrick's writing style is fast-paced and immersive, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations. The chemistry and tension between Nora and Patch add an element of romance and intrigue, further enhancing the book's appeal. The author expertly blends elements of fantasy, mystery, and romance, creating a unique and compelling narrative that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end.
4. Fallen Series by Lauren Kate
The Fallen series by Lauren Kate holds a special place in my heart as one of my all-time favorite book series. It has captivated me with its gripping blend of romance, supernatural elements, and an intricate web of secrets and mysteries. From the very first book, Fallen, I was instantly drawn into the dark and atmospheric world that Lauren Kate created. The series follows the story of Luce Price, a young girl who finds herself entangled in a timeless love corner with two fallen angels, Daniel and Cam. This central love story forms the heart of the series, and Kate skillfully weaves together the complexities of their relationships, filled with passion, longing, and a sense of forbidden love. What truly sets the Fallen series apart is its unique take on angel mythology and the battle between good and evil. Kate's portrayal of fallen angels, their supernatural abilities, and the celestial conflict they are embroiled in are captivating. The intricate lore and world-building drew me in, leaving me eager to uncover the secrets and unravel the mysteries that surrounded Luce's past and her connection to the angelic realm. As I delved deeper into the series, I became enamored with Lauren Kate's atmospheric and descriptive writing style. Her prose was hauntingly beautiful, effortlessly evoking emotions and painting vivid scenes in my mind. The settings, whether it was the gothic Sword & Cross boarding school or the ethereal landscapes of Heaven and Hell, felt tangible and immersive. Kate's ability to transport readers into her richly imagined world made each page-turning experience feel like an escape into a realm of angels and destiny.
5. Beautiful Creatures Series by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
From the moment I entered the enchanting world of Gatlin County, I was entranced by its unique blend of Southern Gothic atmosphere, supernatural elements, and an epic love story. The series follows the lives of Ethan Wate and Lena Duchannes, two star-crossed teenagers who are irresistibly drawn to each other despite the supernatural forces and familial curses that threaten to tear them apart. Their forbidden love is at the heart of the series and serves as a powerful anchor amidst the intricate plotlines and mystical events that unfold. One of the most compelling aspects of the Beautiful Creatures series is the authors' ability to transport readers to a richly detailed and atmospheric setting. Gatlin County, with its moss-draped oak trees, eerie swamps, and secrets buried deep within its history, felt like a character in itself. Garcia and Stohl's vivid descriptions brought the town to life, immersing me in its Southern charm and haunting beauty.
Garcia and Stohl's writing style is immersive and lyrical, beautifully capturing the essence of the Deep South while seamlessly blending it with supernatural elements. Their descriptive prose conjures vivid imagery and elicits a range of emotions, from the spine-tingling moments of suspense to the tender and heartfelt scenes of love and friendship.
6. The Iron King by Julia Kagawa
I remember never wanting to put this book down. It is a series, so there is definitely more to the story, however, I really enjoyed the first book the most. From the moment I delved into its pages, I was captivated by its enchanting blend of fantasy, adventure, and romance, which transported me to a world brimming with magic and wonder. The land of Faery, with its ethereal landscapes and mythical creatures, came alive before my eyes. Each scene was vividly described, allowing me to immerse myself fully in this mesmerizing realm. Kagawa's masterful storytelling evoked a sense of awe and made me feel as though I was right beside the characters, experiencing their journey firsthand. Speaking of characters, The Iron King boasts a diverse and compelling cast that left a lasting impression on me. Meghan Chase, the courageous and determined protagonist, instantly won me over with her relatability and fierce determination to save her kidnapped brother. Throughout her journey, she undergoes tremendous growth, transforming from an ordinary girl into a formidable warrior. Her struggles and triumphs resonated with me on a deep level, making her a character I could truly root for. The supporting characters in the novel are equally memorable. Puck, the mischievous and loyal friend, provided moments of levity and served as a pillar of support for Meghan. And then there's Ash, the brooding and enigmatic prince of the Winter Court. The slow-burning romance that develops between Meghan and Ash was beautifully portrayed, filled with tension and a sense of forbidden love. Their chemistry kept me invested in their relationship until the very end.
7. The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith
The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith is undoubtedly one of my favorite novels, captivating me from start to finish with its intricate web of psychological suspense, moral ambiguity, and the complex character of Tom Ripley. Highsmith's masterful storytelling draws me into the twisted mind of Tom Ripley, a talented imposter with a knack for deceit and manipulation. As the narrative unfolds, I find myself both fascinated and disturbed by Ripley's ability to seamlessly blend into different social circles while harboring dark secrets and ulterior motives. Highsmith's portrayal of Ripley is both chilling and compelling, presenting a character who challenges conventional notions of morality and raises thought-provoking questions about identity and the lengths one will go to maintain it. Highsmith had this ability to create tension and suspense through subtle psychological nuances. As Ripley weaves a complex web of lies and manipulations, I find myself questioning his motives and anticipating the consequences of his actions. Highsmith skillfully maintains a sense of unease and unpredictability throughout the novel, keeping me on the edge of my seat and yearning to uncover the truth beneath the layers of deception.
8. Divergent Series by Veronica Roth
I was immediately drawn into the dystopian world that Roth created in the Divergent series, where society is divided into factions based on personality traits. This captivating premise, combined with compelling characters and thought-provoking themes, made the series a truly unforgettable experience. One of the things I loved most about the Divergent series is its relatable and strong-willed protagonist, Beatrice "Tris" Prior. Tris undergoes a remarkable journey of self-discovery and personal growth and her resilience, bravery, and determination to challenge the constraints of society resonated with me deeply, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way. The world-building in the series is rich and detailed, painting a vivid picture of a society on the brink of revolution. Roth's dystopian Chicago is both familiar and eerily different, with its factions and oppressive societal norms. The factions themselves, each representing a different virtue, added depth to the world and raised thought-provoking questions about the nature of human identity and the consequences of categorization.
9. In 27 Days by Alison Gervais
"In 27 Days" by Alison Gervais is a novel that really struck a chord in me and is one of the books I will forever recommend to anyone who wants a tearjerker. I read the original story (Wattpad people know what I'm talking about) and when I realized Gervais was going to publish it, I made sure to get a copy. The novel revolves around the story of Hadley Jamison, an ordinary high school student who finds herself in possession of a mysterious note and the power to change someone's destiny. When she is approached by a boy named Archer Morales, who intends to take his own life in 27 days, Hadley embarks on a journey to save him, discovering the power of friendship, empathy, and the impact of small acts of kindness along the way. The book delves into themes such as mental health, suicide, and the importance of human connection. Through Hadley's journey, the novel highlights the profound impact that compassion, understanding, and reaching out to others can have on their lives. The chemistry and development of the relationship between Hadley and Archer are beautifully portrayed. It's not just a typical love story but a narrative that explores the power of connection and the importance of being there for one another during times of hardship. Their bond grows through shared experiences, heartfelt conversations, and moments of vulnerability, leaving a lasting impact on both characters and readers alike. Alison Gervais' writing style is engaging and heartfelt, bringing the story to life with its authenticity and emotional depth. The pacing is well-balanced, allowing the narrative to unfold at a pace that keeps readers invested and eager to discover the outcome. Gervais's prose evokes a range of emotions, from moments of heartache and despair to those of hope and inspiration. "In 27 Days" is a testament to the power of empathy, the significance of human connections, and the impact that small acts of kindness can have in someone's life. It reminds us that we all have the ability to make a difference, even in the face of darkness. This novel resonates with readers on a deep level, reminding us of the importance of reaching out to others, spreading kindness, and being there for those who need it most.
10. The Fallen Star Series by Jessica Sorensen
In The Fallen Star Series, Gemma has never experienced emotions until recently, and she finds herself drawn to Alex, an attractive new student at her school. Whenever she is near him, she feels a powerful electric sensation that sets her skin buzzing. Additionally, the terrifying creatures from her nightmares begin to manifest in the real world. However, Gemma's life becomes even more complicated when she discovers that secrets are lurking around every corner. Suddenly, things that should only exist in imagination become tangible realities. As Gemma's world crumbles around her, unraveling the mysteries of her past becomes a matter of utmost urgency, as her very survival depends on it. No one knows what this series is. Everyone I have asked if they read it always told me "no." It's a little more well-known than it was about ten years ago, but I know that it's still an underrated series. It is an eBook on Amazon, and I actually downloaded the first book on my Kindle because it was free, and the summary was interesting to my younger self. I still reread the series to this day (I believe there is a version of this series for an older audience). Yes, there are some grammar mistakes. No, it does not take away from the series because it's so refreshing. There is a reason why I come back to it despite its flaws; it's because it's a pretty dang good series. Jessica Sorensen redefines fantasy, introducing a range of characters and creatures, from foreseers, fae, witches, and monsters, magic, friendship, and a romance that is on the brink of being star-crossed that we leave you hanging from the end of your seat.
Honorable Mentions:
While these were very close to making my list, there were just very few things that I liked a little more about the ones in my top ten. However, this doesn't mean that the novels below weren't good. Honestly, they probably deserve way more credit than what they got:
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