The year 2020 was a busy one for book lovers, with many highly-anticipated releases hitting the shelves. As a reader, I was eagerly looking forward to diving into several new books that were set to be released throughout the year. However, due to various reasons including a busy schedule, other commitments, and unexpected events, I didn’t get a chance to read all the books I was excited about. In this article, I will highlight the top ten 2020 releases that I was excited to read but unfortunately didn’t get to.

1. “The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” by V.E. Schwab – This highly acclaimed novel follows the story of a young woman who makes a Faustian bargain to live forever but is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets.

2. “Such a Fun Age” by Kiley Reid – This thought-provoking novel explores issues of race and privilege through the story of a young African American woman who becomes entangled in her wealthy white employer’s family drama.

3. “Transcendent Kingdom” by Yaa Gyasi – From the author of the critically acclaimed novel “Homegoing,” this book delves into themes of faith, science, and familial relationships through the story of a Ghanaian immigrant family living in Alabama.

4. “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett – This bestselling novel follows the lives of twin sisters who take different paths in life, one passing as white and the other embracing her black identity.

5. “Mexican Gothic” by Silvia Moreno-Garcia – A chilling and atmospheric novel set in 1950s Mexico, this book combines elements of horror, mystery, and Gothic literature to create a thrilling and suspenseful read.

6. “The Glass Hotel” by Emily St. John Mandel – From the author of “Station Eleven,” this novel weaves together multiple storylines to explore themes of art, ambition, and the interconnectivity of lives.

7. “The City We Became” by N.K. Jemisin – The first book in a new urban fantasy series, this novel follows the story of five New Yorkers who must come together to defend their city against an ancient evil.

8. “Piranesi” by Susanna Clarke – This haunting and atmospheric novel follows the titular character as he navigates a mysterious and ever-shifting labyrinth.

9. “The Searcher” by Tana French – Known for her gripping psychological thrillers, Tana French’s latest novel follows the story of a retired detective who becomes embroiled in a small town’s dark secrets.

10. “Blacktop Wasteland” by S.A. Cosby – A gritty and intense crime novel set in rural Virginia, this book follows a former getaway driver who is pulled back into a life of crime to provide for his family.

While I may not have had the opportunity to read these books in 2020, I am still looking forward to diving into them in the future. The beauty of literature is that great books are timeless, and I know that these releases will continue to captivate readers for years to come. Whether it’s delving into a new world, exploring complex themes, or simply getting lost in a gripping story, there is always something magical about discovering a new book to love.