As we approach the end of the year, it’s time to share my favourite reads from 2019. I gave 19 books 5 stars this year, so it’s been hard to whittle this list down to ten.

The Familiars by Stacey Halls

Witches seem to be a common theme in my best of list this year, with the first of them being a fascinating historical fiction based on the Pendle Witch Trials.

Other Words for Smoke by Sarah Maria Griffin

A wonderful combination of beautiful writing and a creepy atmosphere, set over several Irish summers.

The Migration by Helen Marshall

My top climate fiction read of the year.

Wakenhyrst by Michelle Paver

It seems creepy has also been high up in my list of likes this year, with this great historical horror making the cut.

War Doctor by David Nott

This book broke me. A heartbreaking account of the realities of being a doctor in war zones and the huge damage that modern conflicts inflict on innocent people.

Sanctuary by V.V. James

A modern witch hunt with actual witches.

The Themis Files by Sylvain Neuvel

I cheated here and included a whole trilogy as one book, but I loved every one of these volumes about giant space robots and their affects on planet Earth. The last one is very topical right now. I haven’t reviewed these yet as I’ve just been enjoying reading without the pressures of writing about them, but I might do something in the new year about the trilogy.

Pet by Akwaeke Emezi

A fantastic little moral tale about what happens when we become complacent.

The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary

Awww such warm fuzzies, a lovely book with a serious centre.

The Heartland by Nathan Filer

A hugely compassionate book on schizophrenia, dispelling myths and prejudices. I feel like I have a much better understanding of this condition now.