These are my favorite reads in 2021.
After completing 21 books in 2020, I set out a goal to complete at least forty books for the year. In January, I wanted to read at least 10 pages per day to get me into the rhythm of reading daily.
I picked audio books and paperbacks to get me started and I listened to the audio while I was making breakfast or reading in the chair with a hot cup of coffee and a warm cat curled up on my lap.
1. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Absolutely LOVED this book. Honestly, it even made me cry. The main character, Nora, ends up in library where each book contains a different life she could have lived. Once she opens a book, she is transported into that version of her life – at that moment – and tries to find out if it is a happy life.
2. The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown
I love the movie series following Robert Langdon, but I haven’t read any of the books. This one came from Half Priced Books and I read a little bit every morning before work. I finished it so quickly! I definitely want to read more from Dan Brown. This book followed Langdon as he hurdles into a mystery when a severed hand appears in a Washington D.C. Capitol building.
3. 1st to Die by James Patterson
I like the Along Came a Spider movie, so I thought I’d pick up one of the novels by James Patterson. I can see why he’s a bestselling author. The story moves in and out of various crime scenes, giving the reader a behind-the-scenes view of what the main character goes through while trying to find the killer.
4. The Defining Decade by Meg Jay
This book was so good that I couldn’t put it down. I am sad that I didn’t read this one when I was in my twenties. It is full of conversations between a therapist and her twenty-something clients on why our twenties matter – its not a time to idly pass by or push through. Basically, your life means something, so make the best of it – at any age – but especially in your twenties.
5. The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner
Loved this book. The story moves back and forth between the past and present – but between two different women. The past: a story about Nella and a secret apothecary in 18th century London that dispenses poison to women who have nowhere to turn. The present: Caroline found her husband cheating on her, so she ends up on their 10th anniversary trip to London all alone. This book was entertaining and I loved the historical aspect of the story.
6. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
This story was amazing! It had history, travel, fantasy, and love. Addie LaRue, a young women on her wedding night, runs into the woods and begs to be free. Although she was warned not to pray to the gods on night, the sun not quite below the horizon. Her prayers were answered albeit she is cursed to live a free life where no one remembers her. She walks through life noticed and unnoticed until after 300 years someone finally remembers her.
Wrap Up
You can read the books I’ve read in 2020 here. I’m so excited to plan for another year of reading! What’s on your reading list? Let me know in the comments below!
