Most Enjoyable Reads 2019
I have found it difficult to put together a list of my favourite reads this year because they are so different and difficult to compare.
So I haven’t done any soul searching over my favourite reads. I have simply put together some of the ones I enjoyed most. I have a terrible time recalling books once I have finished them, so this will serve me well in years to come.
Many of the books listed are from book tours I took part in. Thank you to all the tour organisers, publishers, and authors who have made 2019 a great reading year. Also thank you for introducing me to fantastic authors and for all your hard work putting tours together.
Now on to the list, which is a mixed compilation of psychological thrillers, romance, contemporary fiction and historical fiction.
I wonder if you have enjoyed any of these too?
Here is my list of most enjoyable reads 2019
These are not in any order.
Tell Me your Secret by Dorothy Koomson
This is so different from other Dorothy Koomson books. A serial killer called ‘The Blindfolder’ is on the loose. He kidnaps women and makes them keep their eyes shut for forty-eight hours whilst he tortures them.
The writing is excellent as always, the characters mesmerising and the plot is twisty, chilling and full of secrets.
The Birthday by Carol Wyer
One hot summer’s afternoon, five-year-old Ava Sawyer went to a party. She never came home…
Well paced, intelligently written and I’m sure it will be the start of an excellent crime series.
The Argument by Victoria Jenkins
It happens to every mother. One day, the daughter whose whole world you once were, becomes someone you barely know. And you don’t know the secrets she’s hiding…
Just as you think this is a family drama like so many others the plot shifts rapidly and the book becomes compelling, dark and totally absorbing.
The Wild Roses by D B Carter
Three friendships torn apart by one chance meeting.
The story flows brilliantly with writing which is eloquent, emotive and full of suspense.
The Other Daughter by Shalini Boland.
It’s been nine years since Rachel’s daughter Holly was snatched from a playground aged two and never found.
The ending took me completely by surprise, one of those ‘hang on a second!’ moments that are so rare these days.
Once Upon A River by Diane Setterfield
On a dark midwinter’s night in an ancient inn on the Thames, the regulars are entertaining themselves by telling stories when the door bursts open and in steps an injured stranger. In his arms is the drowned corpse of a child.
It was interesting to read about the many comparisons between a river and a story, both winding and flowing with many tributaries playing an integral part.
A Respectable Woman by Susanna Bavin
After losing everything she holds dear in the Great War, Nell believes that marrying Stan Hibbert will help to recapture the loving family feeling she has lost.
Lovers of historical fiction will adore this book, I can’t recommend it highly enough. Susanna Bavin has quickly become one of my favourite authors.
The Things I Know by Amanda Prowse
Thomasina ‘Hitch’ Waycott loves living and working on the remote family farm and B&B. But she also wants more. To see the world. Own her own home. To fall madly in love.
This is the sweetest, most compelling read, that draws you in from the first page.
Poppy’s Recipe For Life by Heidi Swain
Things haven’t always been straightforward in Poppy’s life but her dreams are finally within her reach.
This is a perfect summer read. It is a character-driven novel with personalities you could meet in any village pub….honest, believable, funny and warm.
The Cherries by D B Carter
When they have broken you, when you have been humiliated, bullied, deserted and destitute, can you find a place where you may dare to be happy?
This book is my favourite read from 2019. I had no idea what to expect but I totally fell in love with The Cherries. This is a book I know I will read again and I’m hoping there will be a sequel.
Six Steps To Happiness by Suzie Tullet
When Ronnie’s husband, Nick, leaves her for their next-door neighbour, Gaye, Ronnie’s life starts to fall apart.
I just didn’t want this book to end!
Ellie And The Harpmaker
Sometimes it takes a chance encounter to discover what your life could be like…
A refreshingly different novel, beautifully written and highly recommended.
Postscript by Cecelia Ahern
The long-awaited sequel to the bestselling PS, I Love You
This is a stunning sequel, totally worth the long wait and one of my favourite reads this year.
The Day We Met By Roxie Cooper
Ten years, two people and one twisty, epic love story that asks what happens when you meet your soulmate after you’re already engaged to someone else?
I have always hung on to the idea that there is a soulmate out there for everyone… and this book just makes it feel possible.
A Home From Home by Veronica Henry
Sunshine, cider and family secrets
It is like a jigsaw of people and you try to see where ever piece (or person) fits in. The Melchoir/ Culbone family tree is intertwined and full of secrets, but the writing is so skilled that it flows beautifully.
Thank you so much for taking a look ar my most enjoyable reads 2019. All these books have full reviews on this blog if you want to find out more.
Happy New Year everyone and sincere thanks to the blogging and writing communities who have made this such a great reading year.
your reviews leave me wanting to read them all !!! This year I am determined to set aside more time for reading, at least until gardening season returns ! Happy New Year, and onward to reading wonderful stories
Reading is time well spent, until gardening season starts again xx
I feel honoured to be included in this list. They’re all such fab authors, thank you x
It was a pleasure to read, thank you and Happy New Year.