Author Obsessions in 2020
Let's talk about the new-to-me authors that I discovered in 2020. This Top Ten Tuesday topic, hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl, is one I've done every year since 2012! Sometimes I can easily come up with 10 authors and other years it's a struggle. 2020 was the former! In fact, it was hard for me to narrow it down to just 10. I didn't decide based on who I thought was the best writer or wrote the best books. Instead, I chose the 10 authors that made me want to read more from them. I based it more on whether I'd read their backlist / pre-order their next book rather than if their book made my Top 20 of 2020 list (though many did!). Here's who made my list:
1. KENDRA ADACHI | The Lazy Genius Way
I love Adachi's Lazy Genius podcast and her Instagram, and I'm so happy that she was able to share her process in her book! I do think the principles in it were more memorable than her actual writing style, but she earned a spot because I want to read anything she publishes. I think the next book is food-related, and I can't wait!
2. RICK BRAGG | My Southern Journey
My Southern Journey was a random Goodwill find that I couldn't resist based on the 1) the price, 2) the cover, and 3) the length. A short book of Southern essays? Sure, I'll try it! Little did I know, I was about to fall in love with Bragg's writing and his audiobook narration. I've already bought four more of his books to read this year.
3. LAURA HANKIN | Happy & You Know It
In 2020, I didn't pick up physical books nearly as often as I turned on an audio. And when I did, they often took me longer than normal to finish. Enter Laura Hankin and Happy & You Know It. I picked up my hardcover and couldn't put it down until I was done! This had me completely hooked, and I'm excited for Hankin's 2021 release.
What I thought I was getting when I picked up Beach Read – a light and breezy contemporary novel befitting its title – wasn't quite what I got. I appreciated how Henry upended some of my expectations, but still gave me what I wanted in a romance. I need to check out her backlist of YA books and have her next adult book pre-ordered.
5. SARAH HOGLE | You Deserve Each Other
You Deserve Each Other was a delight, though I think it's the kind of book that will be polarizing with readers. The couple has some communication issues. For me, it worked! I thought the writing was quirky and sarcastic, and it made me excited to find a new voice in contemporary romance. Twice Shy can't get here soon enough!
6. HOLLY JACKSON | A Good Girl's Guide to Murder
Speaking of mysteries, I'm still trying to crack the case of how this book completely stole my heart. I adored the heroine and her crime-solving sidekick, and I thought the case itself was so compelling and memorable. I was thrilled to learn this was the first in a series and can't wait for the upcoming release of Good Girl, Bad Blood.
7. EMMA LORD | Tweet Cute
It takes a lot for a contemporary young adult novel to win me over these days, probably because I now identify too much with the parents, but Emma Lord did it in Tweet Cute. This reminded me of what I love about the genre! This was such a cute read and didn't take itself too seriously, so I'm looking forward to Lord's You've Got a Match.
8. LIA LOUIS | Dear Emmie Blue
When I downloaded a review copy of Dear Emmie Blue, I had no idea it was about to cry, swoon, and close the last page with the biggest grin on my face. I haven't even reviewed this one yet because I can't put my love for it into words! I'm praying Louis' 2021 release, Eight Perfect Hours, is another perfect (for me) read.
9. TIFFANY MCDANIEL | Betty
Of everything I read in 2020, Betty is the book I'll remember most. I've discussed it endlessly with my sister, and we've pushed it on our mom. With vivid storytelling and a strong voice, it has an unforgettable heroine at its heart. It was one of the most emotionally heavy books I read but still hopeful, too. McDaniel's debut is now on my TBR!
10. MARY LAURA PHILPOTT | I Miss You When I Blink
I probably debated this addition to my list the longest. The way Philpott explored time, memory, and identity – and her Type A personality – was really meaningful for me and felt like something I read at the exact right time in my life. I have no idea if another essay collection would be as impactful, but I know I'd love for her to write one.
I didn't realize Sarah Hogle had a new book coming out - that's exciting to hear!
ReplyDeleteBeach Read and Tweet Cute have been on so many lists this week. :)
ReplyDeleteMy post.
Emily Henry & Emma Lord were also new-to-me authors for 2020, and I'm excited to read more of their stuff!
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