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Top 5 Favorite Books (non-series)

Writer's picture: Dorothy XDorothy X

Updated: Aug 11, 2023

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dandelion that has been blown away into the sun
what alice forgot book cover

Author: Lian Moriarty

Publication Date: April 24, 2012

Pages: 488

"What Alice Forgot" by Liane Moriarty is an utterly delightfully poignant tale that takes readers on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery and second chances.

The story centers around Alice, who suffers a bump on the head and wakes up with no recollection of the last decade of her life. As she tries to piece together the missing years, she hilariously stumbles through her own life, encountering surprises at every turn. Moriarty's witty and sharp humor shines through Alice's attempts to navigate the complex web of relationships and changes she has seemingly forgotten.

The author skillfully weaves humor into the narrative, creating laugh-out-loud moments that keep the pages turning. From Alice's befuddled attempts to understand modern technology to her baffling interactions with people, she can no longer remember, the comedic situations are as heartwarming as they are hilarious.

Amidst the laughs, Moriarty also explores deeper themes of love, loss, and the fragility of relationships. The juxtaposition of humor with emotional depth adds an extra layer of richness to the story, making it a truly immersive and satisfying read.

"What Alice Forgot" is a testament to Moriarty's storytelling prowess, offering a perfect blend of humor and heart. As Alice rediscovers herself, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, rooting for her every step of the way. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a funny and heartfelt tale of self-discovery and the triumph of love over life's unexpected twists and turns. Prepare to be thoroughly entertained and emotionally moved by this charming gem of a novel. It is by far my favorite book by Moriarty. I cried and laughed through the entire novel and could not put it down until I found out how it was going to end.

 
xray of grasshoppers
20th century ghosts book cover

Author: Joe Hill

Publication Date: September 16, 2008

Pages: 336

"20th Century Ghosts" by Joe Hill is a collection of spine-chilling and hauntingly original short stories that masterfully blend the supernatural with human emotions.

In this eerie anthology, Hill proves himself to be a master of the horror genre, delivering a diverse range of tales that will send shivers down your back. Each story is skillfully crafted, leaving readers captivated and unnerved. From haunted amusement parks to vengeful spirits, Hill's imagination knows no bounds.

The beauty of "20th Century Ghosts" lies in its ability to go beyond simple scares and delve into the complexities of human nature. Amidst the supernatural elements, the characters are well-developed and relatable, making their journeys all the more haunting and poignant.

Hill's writing is atmospheric and evocative, drawing readers into the eerie worlds he creates. With a deft hand, he weaves emotions and suspense to create an unforgettable reading experience.

This book is a delightfully spooky and compelling anthology that showcases Hill's talent as a writer of supernatural fiction. Prepare to be thrilled, chilled, and thoroughly entertained by this hair-raising collection of ghostly tales. If you scare easily, read this during the day! But if you are like me and love to be scared, bring on the fear-inducing stories and read at night!

 

a boy and girl sitting on a fence facing away from the reader
the pact book cover

Author: Jodie Picoult

Publication Date: February 21, 2006

Pages: 389

In "The Pact," Jodi Picoult delivers an emotionally charged and thought-provoking exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. The story revolves around Chris and Emily, childhood best friends whose unbreakable bond takes a tragic turn when Emily is found dead, and Chris is discovered with a gun beside her. What unfolds is a gripping narrative that dives deep into the aftermath of the tragedy, revealing secrets, unraveling emotions, and forcing characters to confront tough moral choices.

Picoult gives readers a chance to see the story unfold through multiple perspectives, providing a nuanced understanding of each character's motivations and struggles. The novel's exploration of grief, guilt, and the profound impact of choices on people's lives is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming.

The book tackles sensitive subjects with empathy and realism and examines the ripple effects of tragedy on a community and the delicate threads that connect us all.

"The Pact" is an emotional rollercoaster that will keep you engrossed from start to finish. While the subject matter is intense, the unpredictable twists and turns create an unputdownable reading experience. Also, have a box of tissues or two ready because this one is going to grab your heart and tear it in two.

 
vies and flowers taking over the cover
the ruins book cover

Title: The Ruins

Author: Scott Smith

Publication Date: February 26, 2008

Pages: 384

"The Ruins" by Scott Smith is a pulse-pounding horror novel that will leave readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Set in the lush jungles of Mexico, the story follows a group of young tourists who stumble upon an ancient and mysterious archaeological site. Little do they know that their curiosity will lead them into a nightmarish and desperate struggle for survival.

Smith's writing is atmospheric and tension-filled, immersing readers in the claustrophobic and eerie atmosphere of the remote ruins. The sense of isolation and impending doom is palpable, keeping readers gripped with anxiety and anticipation.

One of the strengths of "The Ruins" lies in its well-developed characters, each with their own fears and vulnerabilities. As their situation becomes increasingly dire, the group's cohesion begins to unravel, and their psychological descent adds an extra layer of terror to the narrative.

The horror in this novel is visceral and psychological, blending gruesome imagery with the unsettling realization that danger lurks within the unknown. Smith masterfully builds suspense, making every page a gripping experience.

"The Ruins" is not just a story of survival but also an exploration of human nature under extreme circumstances. Themes of trust, sacrifice, and the darkness within us all add depth to the chilling plot.

Overall, "The Ruins" is a riveting and terrifying read that will haunt readers long after they've turned the last page. Smith's ability to craft a relentless and harrowing tale of survival sets this book apart as a must-read for horror enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline-fueled and emotionally charged experience. P.S. ---the movie was not comparable to the book at all--- it should never have been created. Give this book a try and let it change your mind!

 
a person without a head
brave new world book cover

Author: Aldous Huxley

Publication Date: January 1, 1960

Pages: 144

"Brave New World" by Aldous Huxley remains shockingly relevant and prophetic, even decades after its publication. Set in a dystopian future, the novel presents a world where individuality and freedom have been sacrificed in exchange for stability and conformity.

Huxley's vision of a society controlled by technology, mass media, and pleasure-seeking mirrors our present-day reality more closely than ever. From the constant bombardment of information to the pursuit of instant gratification, the parallels between the fictional "Brave New World" and our modern world are uncanny and scary.

Huxley's critique of consumerism, the devaluation of human connections, and the manipulation of emotions through pharmaceuticals resonate profoundly in today's fast-paced and tech-dominated society. As we witness the rise of social media, the increasing reliance on medication, and the erosion of privacy, the warning bells of Huxley's masterpiece ring louder than ever.

"Brave New World" remains a powerful commentary on the potential dangers of sacrificing individuality for the sake of societal stability and comfort. The novel serves as a wake-up call, urging us to question the direction our world is heading and the consequences of forsaking our humanity.

"Brave New World" is a timeless and unsettling masterpiece that will shock you with its striking similarities to our contemporary reality. Huxley's profound insights into human nature and the perils of unchecked progress make this novel essential reading for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and cautionary tale about the possible future of our own world.



Please share your comments and thoughts on the books posted in the blog if you also read them. These are some of my all-time favorite reads that I always remember because their stories were shocking and real at times.

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