When it comes to finding hidden gems in the literary world, sometimes the best books are those that fly under the radar. With so many books being published each year, it’s easy for some fantastic reads to get lost in the shuffle. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the top ten books I absolutely loved, all of which have fewer than 2,000 ratings on Goodreads.

1. “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt – This haunting and suspenseful novel follows a group of privileged students at a New England college who become embroiled in a murder plot. With its rich prose and complex characters, “The Secret History” is a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

2. “The Boy Who Drew Monsters” by Keith Donohue – In this chilling tale, a young boy with severe autism begins drawing strange and terrifying creatures that seem to come to life. As his parents try to unravel the mystery behind his drawings, they uncover dark secrets from the past. Donohue’s atmospheric writing creates a sense of creeping dread that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

3. “The Weight of Blood” by Laura McHugh – Set in the Ozarks, this gripping thriller follows a young woman as she investigates her friend’s disappearance and uncovers a web of dark secrets in her small town. McHugh’s evocative writing and complex characters make “The Weight of Blood” a page-turner that will keep you guessing until the very end.

4. “The Golem and the Jinni” by Helene Wecker – This enchanting novel blends fantasy and historical fiction as it tells the story of a golem and a jinni who find themselves living in turn-of-the-century New York City. Wecker’s lyrical prose and intricate world-building make “The Golem and the Jinni” a magical and unforgettable read.

5. “The House at the End of Hope Street” by Menna van Praag – In this charming novel, a struggling young woman finds refuge in a mysterious house where famous female literary figures come to mentor her. As she discovers the secrets of the house and learns to embrace her own strengths, she finds the courage to change her life. Van Praag’s whimsical storytelling and vivid characters make “The House at the End of Hope Street” a delight to read.

6. “The Marsh King’s Daughter” by Karen Dionne – This gripping psychological thriller follows a woman who must confront her dark past when her father, a notorious killer, escapes from prison. As she hunts him down in the wilderness of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, she grapples with her conflicting feelings of love and hatred for the man who raised her. Dionne’s tense and suspenseful writing will keep you glued to the page until the very end.

7. “A Place for Us” by Fatima Farheen Mirza – This moving debut novel follows a Muslim Indian-American family as they gather for a wedding, confronting long-buried secrets and unresolved tensions along the way. Mirza’s poignant exploration of family, identity, and tradition will resonate with readers of all backgrounds.

8. “The Lost Girls of Paris” by Pam Jenoff – Based on the true story of female agents who served in the Special Operations Executive during World War II, this gripping historical novel follows three women as they undertake dangerous missions behind enemy lines. Jenoff’s vivid descriptions and compelling characters bring this little-known piece of history to life.

9. “The Lightkeeper’s Daughters” by Jean E. Pendziwol – In this beautifully written novel, a lighthouse keeper’s journal leads a troubled teenager to uncover the secrets of her family’s past. As she learns about her grandmother’s life on a remote island, she discovers the power of forgiveness and redemption. Pendziwol’s lyrical prose and heartfelt storytelling make “The Lightkeeper’s Daughters” a deeply moving read.

10. “Mr. Rosenblum Dreams in English” by Natasha Solomons – This charming novel follows a German Jewish immigrant as he tries to assimilate into British society in the aftermath of World War II. Determined to become the perfect Englishman, he sets out to build a golf course in the English countryside, encountering humorous and heartwarming misadventures along the way. Solomons’ witty and insightful writing makes “Mr. Rosenblum Dreams in English” a delightful and uplifting read.

In conclusion, these ten books may not have the high ratings of bestsellers, but they are all hidden gems that deserve to be discovered. From haunting mysteries to heartwarming family dramas, these stories will captivate and inspire readers who are willing to give them a chance. So if you’re looking for your next great read, consider picking up one of these lesser-known treasures and prepare to be amazed.