I have always loved to read. As a professional communicator, reading and writing is part of the job description, as is love and understanding of story. But as a professional artist, I also find reading to be a major source of inspiration.

As with many people, I am a big fan of summer reading. Even though I read (and listen to audiobooks) all year round, I certainly dedicate more time to reading during the summer.

So for those of your who are prepping your summer reading list, here is a list of the best novels that I read during the past 12 months!

(This list is not in ranking order and includes both new and dated publications).

1. “Uprooted” by Naomi Novik

This book took me by surprise. I did not expect to love it as much as I did. Full of believable magic, mystery, drama and romance, this YA book will pull you in no matter what your age is. I loved it so much, I was even compelled to purchase it and may even describe it as one of my all-time favorite books. As author Lev Grossman describes it, it is “an instant classic.”

 

2. “At the Water’s Edge” by Sara Gruen

I have been fascinated by the loch ness monster since I was a small child. Seeing that this book was set at Loch Ness and revolved around the story of Nessie, I was instantly drawn in. Although the main characters start out as being absolutely despicable, the historical fiction will enrapture you. While there is a love story present, it is by no means the book’s main prerogative. This is a great all around story.

 

3. “The Silver Witch” by Paula  Brackston

I had tried reading Brackston’s bestseller “The Witch’s Daughter” years earlier but found it hard to get into. In this book, Brackston’s developed writing skills are noticeable as her style moves from more occult to, I believe, targeted towards a mainstream readership. Through two unique characters, Brackston draws readers into two separate but equally compelling story lines.

 

4. “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins

I’m not usually one for mysteries. That being said, I thought this book was very entertaining. Listening to it via audiobook on my commute to Syracuse, I would find myself looking forward to the next day’s drive so that I could listen to more of the story! Even if you are not a fan of mysteries, I would recommend this read. (Unless you have a drinking problem, in which case the main character will not be a good influence on you).

 

5. “The Book of Speculation”

Like “The Silver Witch,” this novel revolves around two separate but mysteriously connected story lines. A story about a family of circus-mermaids that all meet eerily similar ends, this book follows a man’s struggle to solve the family mystery and save his sister from enduring a similar fate. Just enough mystery and magic that it is almost believable, this book is hard to put down.

Coming soon: top series and non-fiction!