During these difficult and often confusing times we are all stuck at home and suddenly looking for much more entertainment than we are used to. For many of us this is the perfect time to binge some Netflix shows, but staring at a screen can get exhausting after a while. I decided to compile a list of some of my favorite books from the past few years that you can pick up the next time you’re bored. All of these are easy and fun reads, so no big commitment necessary!
The Bride Test – Helen Hoang
This rom-com novel is about the blooming love between Khai and Esme and explores themes of autism, immigration, and difficult family members. Sweet, hilarious and swoon-worthy.
Red White & Royal Blue – Casey McQuiston
Ever wonder what the world would be like if a woman were president of the US? This romance is set in an alternate world with a completely different political climate and describes the budding friendship/love between the son of the president and the prince of the British Royal House. Casey McQuiston won two Goodreads awards in 2019 for this debut novel.
The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue – Mackenzi Lee
Before having to work at his father’s company for the rest of his life, gentleman Monty gets to go on a Grand Tour with his sister and best friend, one last hurray before giving up his freedom. Monty accidentally steals a valuable object, leading to a manhunt through Europe. Every time you think their escapes can’t get crazier, this book surprises you. Light, funny and relatable.
Scythe – Neal Shusterman
Scythe takes place in a world where all causes of death have been eliminated, and the only way to die is to be eliminated by a scythe. Citra and Rowan are chosen to be scythe apprentices and have learn how to decide who gets to live and who doesn’t. This riveting novel is full of suspense and is part of a trilogy, so don’t worry if you finish it within a day!
Son of a Trickster – Eden Robinson
Considered one of the best Canadian books of last year, Eden Robinson’s novel is about 16-year-old Jared who deals with drug abuse, a dysfunctional family, and talking ravens.
A Court of Thorns and Roses – Sarah J. Maas
Sarah J. Maas creates a highly realistic fantasy world where Feyre gets kidnapped by Fae and is introduced to a world of intrigue, betrayal and romance. If you are looking for amazing character development and the world’s greatest love interest, check out this trilogy.
Stalking Jack the Ripper – Kerri Maniscalco
In this novel, young Audrey Rose Wadsworth investigates the Ripper murders in 1880s London, all the while dealing with the gender norms of being born a Lord’s daughter. Warning: this one can get gory.
Written in Red – Anne Bishop
Written in Red is the first novel in Anne Bishop’s amazing fantasy series. Simon Wolfgard runs the Lakeside Courtyard, a safe space for supernatural beings but a dangerous zone for humans. That is, until he offers Meg Corbyn a job. Meg is a blood prophet and has just escaped from an institution that enslaved her for her prophecies, and her owner is determined to get her back. This series is the grownup version of all the supernatural books we used to read as kids. It will warm your heart to see Meg find a family in the habitants of the Courtyard.
Six of Crows – Leigh Bardugo
Six of Crows is the perfect heist novel. The cast consists of outcasts and criminals who join forces to break into the world’s most secure facility. You will fall in love with every member of this bad-ass gang. Bardugo’s novel is filled with action and humor and will transport you to a different world.
Carry On – Rainbow Rowell
Carry On is about Simon, who is the worst chosen one ever chosen, according to his roommate/nemesis Baz. Cue boarding school, a headmaster who is suspiciously similar to Dumbledore, and a threat to end the wizarding world. This novel is for everyone who didn’t want Harry Potter to end (AKA all of us).