Hey everyone! The year is more than half over by now and I wanted to make a post about my most notable reads of 2011 - so far. I've read a fair number of books to date (approximately 25) and a few of those were Did Not Finish books. But, I did read quite a few great books and I wanted to compile them for everyone.
The list is made up with a diverse selection of genres, urban fantasy, steampunk, romance, young adult, historical fantasy, science fiction...which is kind of awesome because I didn't do that on purpose. There's something for everyone out there.
My Favorite Reads of 2011 - So Far
Veil of Gold by Kim Wilkins (review)
I came across this book through Calico Reaction and read it on a whim. It turned out to be a fantastic urban fantasy focusing on Russian folklore. It is unique, creative, face-paced and has an admirable cast of characters.
The Iron Duke by Meljean Brook (review)
I came to read this book for the opposite reasons of Veil of Gold; everyone was talking about how awesome it was and, against my initial feelings of hesitation (I don't always like the really hyped up books), I broke down and bought it. I loved it as much as everyone said I would. It's a steampunk romance with amazing world-building and a believable romantic storyline. Can't get much better than that!
Honorable Mentions
A great young adult paranormal with a different twist to the love triangle. It's smart and well written: my kind of young adult read.
Don't pay any attention to the cheesy cover. This book is actually very good! It's a space opera romance with good characters, good romance and fun world building! Give it a try.
This book gets my vote for most unique urban fantasy. It's set in South Africa and features characters magically bound to animals for committing crimes. The story itself is a mystery. The author really immerses you in South African culture but also provides a thrilling urban fantasy experience.
A pretty epic retelling of a Chinese legend. I really loved the setting and the magic of the story. It's hard to describe in so little words. Read the review then go read the book.
I feel like I've heard a couple of people mention VEIL OF GOLD lately. I love Russian folklore, so I'll keep an eye out for it!
ReplyDeleteI'm really intrigued by Veil of Gold now, I hadn't heard of it. Glad you featured it! Also, agreed on The Iron Duke...I loved it as well :)
ReplyDeleteUnder Heaven and Veil of Gold both look particularly fantastic. I love folklore retellings and anything to do with mythology. Hope you discover just as many great books in the second half of the year. :)
ReplyDeleteKat @ A Myriad of Books
I absolutely loved The Veil of Gold too! So good. Everything else you've mentioned here are books that I've had on my wishlist for awhile (except for the Iron Duke -- I really don't do romance. But I DO keep hearing all these great things about it *everywhere*, so I might break down eventually.)
ReplyDeleteI am going to have to give Shade a try. It's been following me around the last two months, so I think I might just have to take it home with me.
ReplyDeleteGoing to try to find Iron Duke next.
ReplyDeleteHow's The Map of Time so far??? Fingers crossed that you're enjoying it.