The year 2014 had some incredible releases that received critical acclaim and captured the hearts of readers around the world. From debut novels to highly anticipated sequels, there was no shortage of great books to choose from. Unfortunately, as book lovers, it can be challenging to keep up with all the new releases, and sometimes, certain titles fall through the cracks. If you’re like me and you meant to read some of the top releases from 2014 but didn’t get around to it, here’s a list of the top ten books that should be on your reading list.
1. “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr
This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of a blind French girl and a German boy whose paths collide in occupied France during World War II. With stunning prose and intricate storytelling, this book is a must-read for historical fiction fans.
2. “The Goldfinch” by Donna Tartt
Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, this sweeping novel follows the life of a young boy who survives a terrorist attack at a museum and steals a famous painting. Tartt’s rich character development and vivid descriptions make this a compelling read.
3. “Redeployment” by Phil Klay
This National Book Award-winning collection of short stories offers a raw and honest look at the experience of soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Klay’s prose is powerful and thought-provoking, making this a must-read for anyone interested in war literature.
4. “Station Eleven” by Emily St. John Mandel
This post-apocalyptic novel follows a troupe of actors traveling through a world devastated by a flu pandemic. With its lyrical writing and complex characters, “Station Eleven” is a haunting and unforgettable read.
5. “All the Bright Places” by Jennifer Niven
This young adult novel tells the story of two teenagers who bond over their struggles with mental illness. With its emotional depth and authentic portrayal of mental health issues, “All the Bright Places” is a must-read for fans of contemporary YA fiction.
6. “The Bone Clocks” by David Mitchell
This genre-bending novel weaves together multiple narratives spanning decades and continents, exploring themes of mortality, fate, and human connection. Mitchell’s intricate storytelling and masterful prose make this a challenging but rewarding read.
7. “Everything I Never Told You” by Celeste Ng
This debut novel explores the aftermath of a teenage girl’s mysterious death and the impact it has on her family. Ng’s insightful portrayal of race, identity, and family dynamics makes this a powerful and compelling read.
8. “We Were Liars” by E. Lockhart
This suspenseful YA novel follows a privileged family’s summer on a private island, where dark secrets and betrayal lurk beneath the surface. With its twisty plot and unreliable narrator, “We Were Liars” is a gripping and unforgettable read.
9. “Euphoria” by Lily King
Inspired by the life of anthropologist Margaret Mead, this novel follows a love triangle among three anthropologists studying indigenous tribes in New Guinea. King’s lyrical prose and nuanced character development make this a moving and thought-provoking read.
10. “Landline” by Rainbow Rowell
This heartwarming novel follows a woman who discovers a magical phone that allows her to communicate with her past self. Rowell’s signature wit and charm make this a delightful and comforting read for fans of contemporary romance.
While it can be challenging to keep up with all the new releases, these top ten books from 2014 are definitely worth adding to your reading list. Whether you’re a fan of historical fiction, contemporary YA, or post-apocalyptic literature, there’s something for everyone in this diverse selection of titles. So grab a cozy blanket, brew a cup of tea, and dive into one of these captivating reads from 2014.