#reading 2017

from https://ichmusstemalraus.de/5976-2

So @bookcub made a very good very comprehensive list of what they read in 2017, and it inspired me to do the same, so here’s my top 5 books from this past year:

Long May She Reign - a standalone political fantasy novel. Freya is 23rd in line for the throne, but when a mass murder at a royal banquet wipes out everyone else in the line of succession, it’s up to Freya to become queen and save her country.  The plot is a bit weak, but I was won over by Freya, a scientist at heart who doesn’t let her advisers change who she is.

Mask of Shadows - the first book of a trilogy set in a political fantasy. Sal is a petty thief who has big ambitions, so when the opportunity to audition for the role of Opal, one of the queen’s advisers, comes up, they jump at the chance.  There’s a ton of action and plotting going on, seeing as most of the characters are competing to become a spy and assassin.  Fans of Queen’s Thief have gotta read this.

Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow - the first in a fantasy series. Extremely reminiscent of Diana Wynne Jone’s brand of magical realism, this book focuses on Morrigan Crow, a cursed child who brings bad luck to those around her.  Fated to die on her 11th birthday, she is instead wisked away to the magical world of Nevermoor, where she competes for a chance to join the Wunderous Society.  Amazing worldbuilding, great storytelling, fantastic characters.

They Both Die at the End - a standalone ya fiction novel. Deathcast has perfected the ability to predict when people will die, and inform them the night before so that they can live their last day to the fullest. Rufus and Mateo meet on the Last Friend app, and try to make the most of their last day by spending it together.  A really sad, yet amazing book about how people faced with the inevitable spend the time they have, and how hope and good things can still be found in bleak situations.