Friday, August 24, 2012

The Best of 2012 (Third Edition)

From May to July 2012

10:

Graffiti Moon by Cath Crowley


Why?

Cath is my spirit animal. She knows this.

Her novel still inhabits my dreams and I wish to write a book like this. 

It's concise, it's magic, it's lyrical and it's wise.

9:

Masque of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin

 

Why?

Oh man, why not? This cover is no fool's gold; this here is the real deal, a beautiful cover for a wondrous novel.

Dance of the Red Death is one of my most-anticipated sequels of 2013!

8:

Shadow & Bone by Leigh Bardugo


At first I was astonished, then I merely called it compulsively readable, but by the end of this story Bardugo had made such a believer out of me that I was uttering her character's strong words aloud. 

Through all its faults, Shadow & Bone had the X-factor, and that's something magnificently rare!

7:

The Curiosities by Tessa Gratton, Maggie Stiefvater & Tessa Gratton


Why?

This whole project was perfect! I had never known about the Merry Sisters of Fate until the book project was announced, so it was wonderful to "catch up" with The Curiosities, complete with illustrations, hand-written comments and a look inside these writers' heads! 

I LOVED this book. It was full of inspiration.

6:

One For the Murphys by Lynda Mullaly Hunt


Why?

This book is beautiful. One of the novels I claimed I would have loved to represent in my 'If I Were a Literary Agent' post. 

Lynda has a wonderful sense of craft, mixed in with poignant characterization and a truly heartfelt story. 

I can't wait to see what comes next from Hunt!

5: 

Monstrous Beauty by Elizabeth Fama 


Why?

This is the mermaid book I have been waiting for since I began reading YA.

With intelligence, a mastery of language and an astonishing sense of history, Fama spins a most bewitching tail.

4:

Strands of Bronze & Gold by Jane Nickerson


Why?

This author will be a Debutante in 2013 and Jane's novel is one to pine for, wait on and add to your wishlist! 

More on this one in the coming months from MPB!

3:

The Sinister Sweetness of Splendid Academy by Nikki Loftin


Why?

This is the middle-grade novel for readers who think MG books are too simplistic. 

A touch dark, a soupcon of sweet and a dash of whimsy- this is the perfect book for any and all readers!

2: 

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green


Why?

You have to ask, really? 

Everything you've heard about this novel? It's true. 

So true.

1:

Amelia Anne is Dead and Gone by Kat Rosenfield


Why?

I learned at ALA that Julie Strauss-Gabel (she's John Green and Nina Lacour's editor, if you didn't know)edited this novel and said it was the best debut she's ever read. I think I may agree. 

Precision point wording, a compelling story and imagery so vivid and raw you feel like you're suffocating alongside the two main character's.

Also? 

I hosted the blog tour and John Green recommended this book on Twitter.

So that's the third edition. 

Notice many significant changes?

2012 has been a brilliant year in books for me, I've venture to say it has already surpassed the past two years! 

Gabrielle Carolina

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