Goodbye to 2014

What a year! Two of my favourite series ended, I’ve moved across the country, and completed my first term of an MLIS program. I read so many good books over the year – let’s take a look!

Before we get started, my list is in two parts that combine to be my best 14 of 2014. First, my top four books released in 2014. Second, my top ten ‘timeless’ books of 2014. This second list includes books that I encountered (or finally got to) during the year, but were not published during 2014. I considered limiting myslef to books released in 2014, but I don’t limit my reading that way so it seems an odd framework to choose. Anyway, here are my 4+10 best books of 2014! Take a read through and don’t forget to share some of your favourite books of the year.

My Top 4 Books of 2014

The Book of Life by Deborah Harkness

This is the last book in the All Souls Trilogy so I can’t say much without spoiling. Let me assure you this is the perfect conclusion to a great series. Witch and historian Diana Bishop comes to embrace her magical heritage even as Matthew Clairmont, vampire and scientist, learns to manage complexities of his own nature. Along with old and new characters alike, they fight for the right of all creatures to love freely and to have access to their own history.

This series is simply divine. If you are looking for a good book, pick up the first in the series, A Discovery of Witches. What… it’s included in the list below of the top ten books I (re)read this year? Sure is!

The Descent by Alma Katsu

This book is also the final in a trilogy and what an ending! The Taker Trilogy is another favourite and I cannot recommend it enough. The writing and concept are stunning. The conclusion was not at all what I expected and I loved it. The mystery of Adair is finally sorted (sort of…), but will Lanny get a ‘happy ending’ after such a life? Read and find out!

This series is so dear to me. I am thankful I picked it up and I recommend giving it a try. If you want more info feel free to message me or find Alma Katsu at her website, facebook, or twitter.

Wonder by Dominique Fortier

Perhaps the odd one out on this list, this novel weaves through space and time. The seemingly unconnected stories relate to some of the most famous volcanic events in history. The quality of writing makes this book a gem and a clear favourite of 2014.

One thing I loved about this book was the style of writing. As you’re reading along, suddenly there will be a breathtakingly beautiful sentence. I took my time reading this book because it deserves to be savoured.

Otherworld Nights by Kelley Armstrong

This is the thrid collection of short stories released relating to the characters of the Women of the Otherworld Series. Containing eight short stories total, this book includes the brand-new Vanishing Act as well as the rare Chivalrous and From Russia with Love… all of which made me cry. So good!

Admittedly, this book is primarily for fans. It’s probably not the best option if you haven’t read the Women of the Otherworld books… but then you really should. Check out book one, Bitten.

Top 10 Timeless Books Read in 2014

Now onto great books from beyond 2014. Each pictured above and listed in no particular order:

Wild Justice by Kelley Armstrong

A Discovery of Witches & Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Hear the Wind Sing by Haruki Murakami

The Elenium by David Eddings (Technically this includes The Diamond Throne, The Ruby Knight, and The Sapphire Rose by David Eddings. Listing each book would have been over ten, so I cheated and listed the series. What can I say? I’ll try to be more honest in the new year.)

Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka

Brazen by Kelley Armstrong

City of Bones & City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

 

Header made by adapting Sparkling Stibnite Crystals by colbalt123.
All book covers from Goodreads.