2020 was a year full of unexpected surprises, challenges, and changes. However, one silver lining for many book lovers was the opportunity to discover new authors and immerse themselves in the world of literature. As we bid farewell to 2020, let’s take a look back at some of the top ten new-to-me authors that I had the pleasure of discovering this year.

1. Fredrik Backman: Known for his heartwarming and poignant storytelling, Fredrik Backman quickly became one of my favorite authors. His novel “A Man Called Ove” stole my heart and left me in tears at its beautiful conclusion.

2. Brit Bennett: Brit Bennett burst onto the literary scene with her novel “The Vanishing Half,” a profound exploration of race, identity, and family. Her writing is both powerful and thought-provoking, and I can’t wait to read more of her work.

3. Madeline Miller: Madeline Miller’s retellings of Greek myths in “Circe” and “The Song of Achilles” captivated me with their lyrical prose and vivid characters. Her ability to breathe new life into ancient stories is truly remarkable.

4. Casey McQuiston: If you’re a fan of romantic comedies and LGBTQ+ representation, then Casey McQuiston is the author for you. Their novel “Red, White & Royal Blue” is a charming and heartwarming story that left me smiling from ear to ear.

5. Yaa Gyasi: Yaa Gyasi’s debut novel “Homegoing” is a sweeping and powerful saga that traces the lives of two half-sisters and their descendants over several centuries. Her lyrical writing and insightful exploration of race and history left a lasting impression on me.

6. Emily St. John Mandel: Emily St. John Mandel’s novel “Station Eleven” is a haunting and mesmerizing tale of a world devastated by a deadly pandemic. Her exploration of survival, hope, and the power of art is both gripping and thought-provoking.

7. Colson Whitehead: Colson Whitehead is a masterful storyteller whose novel “The Underground Railroad” is a powerful and harrowing depiction of the brutal realities of slavery. His writing is both lyrical and gut-wrenching, and I look forward to exploring more of his work.

8. Silvia Moreno-Garcia: Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s novel “Mexican Gothic” is a chilling and atmospheric tale that blends horror, mystery, and Gothic elements. Her vivid storytelling and compelling characters kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end.

9. Amor Towles: Amor Towles’s novel “A Gentleman in Moscow” is a charming and elegant tale of a Russian aristocrat confined to a luxury hotel during the tumultuous times of the Russian Revolution. His writing is witty, intelligent, and full of warmth.

10. Ruta Sepetys: Ruta Sepetys’s novel “Salt to the Sea” is a heartbreaking and powerful story set during World War II, following the lives of four refugees fleeing the Soviet advance. Her writing is both poignant and evocative, shining a light on lesser-known aspects of history.

As we look forward to a new year filled with new discoveries and adventures, I am grateful for the opportunity to have found these incredible authors in 2020. Each of them has left a lasting mark on me as a reader, and I can’t wait to dive into more of their work in the future. Here’s to many more literary journeys and unforgettable stories in the coming year.