Another year, another top 10 list. In years past, I’ve tried to post five fiction and five non-fiction, however, this year my fiction list was so strong, it overtook all by one spot for non-fiction.

Station Eleven – Emily St John Mandala

What can I say about this book that hasn’t been said by so many others. It has reaped countless awards and since its publication has been adapted into an HBO mini series.

Greenwood – Michael Christie

Much like Station Eleven, Christie’s is also a post apocalyptic novel of sorts (although the NHL is still a thing). A multi-generational tale that weaves through time to examine the lasting impact of trauma.

All The Sinners Bleed – S.A. Cosby

Cosby is one of my favorite working crime fiction writers going today. The novel follows a small town black sheriff struggling to maintain order in a southern town with deeply racist roots.

Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow – Gabrielle Zevin

A novel about the power and tenacity of true friendship and the madness of success. A love letter to video games.

Green Fuse Burning – Tiffany Morris

Most likely the first swamp-core novel I’ve ever read. This novel ripped my heart out at points and left me reeling with Smith’s depictions of panic attacks and struggles with anxiety.

How To Sell A Haunted House – Grady Hendrix

There is a moment late in this novel that made me audibly say “holy shit”. You can’t beat that! Hendrix provides another memorable pop-horror novel.

The Hogfather – Terry Pratchett

A novel about the importance of belief and what makes us human. It’s also very funny. Perfect for the holiday season!

Guards! Guards! – Terry Pratchett

My first venture into Discworld earlier this year was a romp. This is likely my favorite fantasy book and the funniest novel I’ve ever read.

Beartown – Frederik Backman

This novel broke me. I’m not sure it’s breaking new ground in tackling the toxic masculinity that runs rampant in sports, but Backman’s approach left me reeling. His simple prose is easily digestible and lends itself well to speed-reading as the depravity consistently finds new lows.

Where Are Your Boys Tonight: The Oral History of Emo’s Mainstream Explosion 1999-2008

The lone non-fiction book that managed to crack the top 10. Not a strong year for non-fiction for me. This was filled with so much drama and pettiness, that I couldn’t look away. I lived through this era during my “coming-of-age” years. Lots of great memories.