Between classes, clubs, jobs, internships, hanging out with friends, and so much more, life can get a bit hectic. This can lead to even the greatest of book lovers lacking time or losing the motivation to read. Sometimes the best way to take a break from our busy schedules can be to pick up that book you thought sounded interesting; whether that be from a recommendation, “BookTok” (the book side of TikTok), or a simple stroll through a book store.
You may be guilty of having a large “To Be Read” pile, or maybe you’ve been struggling with the same book for weeks on end. Either way, the motivation to read for pleasure can be absent. I’m here to share my top five books that I believe can renew (or kickstart) a passion for reading.
- Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
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Six of Crows, $7.99
I could put any of Leigh Bardugo’s books on this list, whether that be within the Shadow and Bone universe or not. Within two months, I had read the entirety of what Bardugo had published for the Shadow and Bone universe. That included seven books: the Shadow and Bone trilogy, the Six of Crows duology, and the King of Scars duology. You could say I became a quick fan.
If I had to pick one book out of the Shadow and Bone universe to recommend, it would be Six of Crows. This book (in partnership with its sequel) can stand on its own if you don’t want to get into a large book universe. It follows a group of teenagers who are planning an intense and elaborate heist, all while managing their gang in a rundown city called Ketterdam. This book ties together fantasy, adventure, and romance while maintaining an interesting heist plot with diverse characters that keep readers engaged. Each chapter is given from the perspective of a new character, and this allows for deeper insight into the book’s main crew all while continuing to develop the plot. None of this book felt “slow” to me, so if you are looking for a fast-paced fantasy adventure with an insane heist and lovable characters, Six of Crows is a great option.
- The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
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The Inheritance Games, $8.79
This book series follows a young girl, Avery, who receives a surprise inheritance from a man that she has never met. A billionaire named Tobias Hawthorne leaves nearly his entire fortune to Avery after his death, and she must learn how to navigate this inheritance while being moved to a mansion filled with mysteries, puzzles, and the late billionaire’s family. Tobias’ four grandsons are attempting to solve their grandfather’s final riddle for them, and Avery gets swept up into this mystery while trying to find a connection between herself and Tobias Hawthorne.
If you are looking for a mystery novel that includes romance and thriller-like qualities, this is the book for you! You will think that you have the mystery solved, but trust me, a plot twist or two will pop up. Luckily, this isn’t a series that dies out after the first book. I have read the first two books of this series, and I am excited to be able to read the third soon!
- Lore by Alexandra Bracken
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Lore, $8.50
The book is for all of the kids who loved Percy Jackson in elementary school (or really anyone interested in Greek mythology). Every seven years, nine of the Greek gods are forced to walk amongst the world as mortals as an act of punishment for their past rebellion. They are hunted by the descendants of ancient bloodlines who are all hoping to kill a god and thus receive their divine power and immortality. This hunt is called the Agon. The book’s main protagonist, Lore Perseous is a descendant of an ancient bloodline, yet she has left this world behind. However, as you have most likely guessed, she is pulled back into the fight when Athena seeks her help.
If you are interested in Greek mythology and thrilling fantasy books, this is a great choice for you! I always love to see how authors reimagine the Greek gods, and Bracken does a fantastic job with this.
- The Invisible life of Addie LaRue by V. E. schwab
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The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, $15.45
Addie LaRue makes a bargain in 1714 to live forever, yet she is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets. This book takes you across time as Addie travels through various countries and continents in an attempt to leave some mark on the world. Nearly 300 years after making her bargain, Addie meets a boy who changes everything: he remembers her name.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue pulls at your heartstrings while only making you want to read more. This book ties together fantasy, historical fiction, and romance to create the beautiful story and life of Addie LaRue.
- The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
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The Midnight Library, $13.29
The protagonist, Nora, finds herself on the edge of life and death, and what more fitting to be on this edge of the universe then a library. Each book in this library provides Nora with the chance to live a life where she had made a different decision. These decisions answer the questions that plague her mind. What if she stayed in her high school band? What if she married her last boyfriend? What if she became a scientist? Nora travels throughout this Midnight Library in an attempt to find the life that she wishes to have, and this journey will allow her to discover what makes life worth living and what is truly fulfilling in life.
If you want a “deeper” book, this is a great option for you. It will leave you thinking about it days after putting it down. Haig does a beautiful job in tying together Nora’s regrets and dreams with hints of philosophy that stick with readers.
Maybe you haven’t read for pleasure in some time or perhaps you need a break from assigned books in school, but either way, any of these books are sure to peek your interest! This is your sign to pick up that book you have been putting off or purchase one of the books that I have listed here to beat your reading slump.