“The Glass Spare” and “Bright Burns the Night” were some of my favorite books of the year. Photo by Jennifer Trend.
By Jennifer Trend, Staff Writer
2018 was filled with books that broke the mold and explored new and controversial topics. Below are some of my favorite books that I’ve read during 2018- perhaps you’ll be inspired to read them!
“What If It’s Us” by Adam Silvera and Becky Albertalli
Written by both Adam Silvera and Becky Albertalli, no one could ask for any more- both having already written popular LGBT+ books. “What If It’s Us” is a romance novel between Arthur and Ben who fatefully meet at a post office- perhaps it’s the universe edging them together and maybe it’s just coincidence. Who knows? Filled with multiple pop culture references, everyday struggles of teens and prejudice against LGBT+ members, this book really pulled at heartstrings.
“Dear Evan Hansen: The Novel” by Val Emmich, Steven Levenson, Benj Pasek and Justin Paul
Based off the broadway musical “Dear Evan Hansen,” the book is a more deeper look at Evan’s story. After Connor Murphy commits suicide and his “suicide note” is addressed to Evan Hansen, Evan becomes the center of attention when he’s been ‘waving through a window’ his entire life. It’s a heartbreaking and emotional story, highlighting mental health- a struggle many go through.
“Dark Breaks the Dawn” by Sara B. Larson
A retelling of “The Swan Lake”, and the second book in the duology, it continues the story of Princess Evelayn who has been betrayed by her lover and trapped in her swan form for the past two years. It follows her and some others on their journey to find the cause of the magic malfunction- but there is something bigger than them at the stake. Everything from the romance to the story to the fantasy aspect seamlessly tied together and reading it was like being in a fairytale.
“The Glass Spare” by Lauren DeStefano
Wilhelmina Heidle, the only daughter of the king, is different from the rest of her family- a free spirit who looks nothing like her three brothers and has been a spy for her father since a young age. One night she discovers powers that allow her to crystalize anything living and accidentally kills someone she loves dearly, causing her to run away to escape exile and death. On her journey to find someone that could stop her powers, she comes across two individuals who will do anything to use her, and the three of them band together for a common goal- to save both their lands from pure destruction. Being a more darker book, it was refreshing from all the ‘happily ever after’ tropes. Even if the romance felt forced, everything else did the story justice.
“Kingdom of Ash” by Sarah J. Maas
The last installment of the “Throne of Glass” series, this book was packed with adventure, mystery and action. Not surprisingly, there were multiple plot twists and surprises throughout, it was constantly leaving me at the edge of my seat wanting more. Without spoiling too much, it ended with a nice surprise and without leaving too many unanswered questions.
