Reading is a truly magical experience that allows us to explore different worlds, perspectives, and ideas. One of the joys of reading is discovering new authors whose writing resonates with us and leaves a lasting impression. In 2018, I had the pleasure of coming across several new-to-me authors whose work I thoroughly enjoyed. Here are the top eight authors I discovered in 2018:

1. Celeste Ng – I read Ng’s novel “Little Fires Everywhere” and was captivated by her beautiful writing and intricate characterization. Her exploration of race, class, and family dynamics in suburban America was both thought-provoking and moving.

2. Tayari Jones – Jones’s novel “An American Marriage” was a powerful and emotional read that stayed with me long after I finished it. Her storytelling and portrayal of complex relationships were truly masterful.

3. Madeline Miller – Miller’s retelling of Greek mythology in “Circe” was a revelation. Her lush prose and deep understanding of her characters breathed new life into these ancient tales.

4. Sally Rooney – Rooney’s novel “Normal People” was a raw and honest portrayal of love and friendship in modern-day Ireland. Her writing was refreshingly candid and insightful.

5. Lisa Ko – Ko’s novel “The Leavers” was a heart-wrenching story about immigration, identity, and belonging. Her compassionate and empathetic storytelling made a lasting impact on me.

6. Rebecca Makkai – Makkai’s novel “The Great Believers” was a sweeping and heartbreaking tale set against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis in 1980s Chicago. Her writing was both lyrical and poignant.

7. Tommy Orange – Orange’s novel “There There” was a powerful and urgent exploration of Native American identity and experience. His lyrical prose and empathetic storytelling resonated deeply with me.

8. Ottessa Moshfegh – Moshfegh’s novel “My Year of Rest and Relaxation” was a darkly funny and unsettling read that pushed boundaries and challenged conventions. Her unique voice and unflinching honesty made a lasting impression on me.

Discovering these talented authors was one of the highlights of my reading year in 2018. Their stories and writing have enriched my literary journey and left me eager to explore more of their work in the future. Reading these new-to-me authors has been a reminder of the power of storytelling and the endless possibilities that lie within the pages of a book.