Are you on a break from school? Perhaps you’re staying in during quarantine or social distancing, or maybe you’re just looking for something to read? Well, I’ve got you covered! In this post, I’m sharing five book recommendations from the past year that I absolutely loved—and I think you will too. Whether you’re into emotional journeys, psychological thrillers, or heartfelt stories, these books have something for everyone.
Before diving into the details, here’s the video where I discuss each book and why you should read them. Watch it below:
Now, let’s get into the recommendations!
1. What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarty
If you’re looking for a heartfelt and emotional read, What Alice Forgot is a must. The story follows Alice, who wakes up thinking she’s 29, pregnant with her first child and madly in love with her husband. But the truth is, Alice is 39, has three kids, and is in the process of getting divorced. She’s lost the last ten years of her memory due to a head injury, and now, she must reconstruct her life. This book will have you reflecting on your own life, your choices, and how quickly time can pass. I couldn’t stop crying while reading it—it’s a truly moving experience!
2. The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, The Woman in the Window is a gripping read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The protagonist, Anna Fox, is a former child therapist who is now agoraphobic and confined to her home. Her days are filled with binge-watching movies, drinking wine, and spying on her neighbors. One day, she sees something that changes her life forever. It’s a twisting, suspense-filled novel that will have you questioning everything. And since it’s being adapted into a movie soon, I recommend reading the book first to get the full experience.
3. Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine is one of those books that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading it. The story follows Eleanor, a socially awkward woman who believes her life is perfectly fine—until she meets a colleague and her life begins to change. This book touches on loneliness, mental health, and the possibility of finding connection when you least expect it. Though it took me a while to get into, once I did, I couldn’t put it down. It’s a powerful read that’s both heart-wrenching and uplifting.
4. Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
You may have heard of this book because it was adapted into a Hulu series starring Kerry Washington and Reese Witherspoon. But let me tell you—Little Fires Everywhere is even better than the TV show. Set in Shaker Heights, Ohio, it explores the complex relationships between two families: the Richardson family, who is well-established in the community, and Mia, a single mom and artist who moves into town. As their lives intertwine, tensions rise, and secrets are revealed. The book is a brilliant exploration of motherhood, privilege, and identity.
5. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
This is my absolute favorite book I’ve read in the past few months. Where the Crawdads Sing tells the story of Kya Clark, a young girl abandoned by her family and left to grow up alone in the wild marshes of North Carolina. As Kya navigates a harsh, lonely existence, she becomes the subject of town gossip, known as the “Marsh Girl.” The novel is a compelling blend of coming-of-age, romance, and mystery, as it also follows the investigation into a local murder. The suspense builds beautifully, and the ending will leave you breathless. This book is an unforgettable read!
Final Thoughts
I hope these book recommendations inspire your next reading adventure. Whether you love heart-wrenching drama, thrilling mysteries, or uplifting stories, there’s something for everyone on this list. If you’ve already read any of these, let me know what you think in the comments below! I’d love to hear your thoughts and get more recommendations from you.
Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@flopereira) and Goodreads to stay updated on my latest reads and reviews.
Happy reading!
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