Favorite Reads: 2009
It's that time of year again, time for the Top Ten List of 2009! Before I go into the usual disclaimers, I want to point out a few differences between this year's post and those of previous years. For starters, I've added pictures. Woot! But, whether it's because my brain is completely dead or because I'm lazy--or both--rather than coming up with brand new descriptions to explain my rankings, I simply copy and pasted the "My Rating" portion of the original review, with some necessary changes if need be. However, it's the ranking that counts, right? :)
So here's the usual disclaimers:
1) Ranking is hard, because I read a LOT of books during the year, and I'd love to include them all. As I did last year, I'm ranking the top ten, but you're going to get the runner's up list again. That, however, will be in alphabetical order.
2) I base the list on the stuff I read during the calendar year 2009, which is no big surprise. However, I do need to remind people that what I read in 2009 does not necessarily include the latest and greatest releases OF 2009, so don't expect as much. If you'd like to know what I'm pulling from, you can check out my full 2009 list here.
With that in mind, are you ready? :)
1) Santa Olivia (2009)
Writer: Jacqueline Carey
Genre: Science Fiction/Superhero
I absolutely loved, loved, loved this book. It's an absolute must for any fan of Jacquline Carey's work, and for those of you who aren't fans because you're wary of any explicit violence or sex, don't fear. This book is ENTIRELY DIFFERENT from the Kushiel series, so take note. It's not urban fantasy or paranormal romance or even superhero-fiction. It's a dystopic SF (or futuristic fiction if you prefer) that has a splash of vigilantism and a whole lot of boxing and a story that'll sweep you right off your feet. The characters are fantastic, people you really want to root for, and the relationships--romantic, platonic, and fraternal--really make this book a winner. It's a fantastic read, and I really hope Carey continues with this series.
2) Liar (2009)
Writer: Justine Larbalestier
Genre: YA/Fiction
There are very, very, VERY few books that I want to keep around to re-read over and over and over, but this is definitely one of them. The book engaged me on so many levels that I can't wait to read it again and see how the story changes. And because of the book's deliberate yet delightful ambiguity, this is a book I can enjoy over and over and come away with a different interpretation every time. If you're a reader who absolutely MUST HAVE a DEFINITE ENDING with DEFINITE ANSWERS, you may want to shy away from this one. But oh, that'd be a shame. This book is so well-crafted that you'd be missing out on a really great story. Like I said, whether you read YA or not, if you only ever read ONE novel in your life that's targeted to YA, you should read this one. Because it transcends age. It transcends genre. It's a memorable book that I won't soon forget, and once you read it, you won't either.
3) Exit Strategy (2007)
Writer: Kelley Armstrong
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
For Kelley Armstrong fans, this book is DEFINITELY a must, though you won't find it in SF/F/H. I've found this series in both the mystery/thriller shelves and just in regular fiction, so when you're looking in the store, make sure you exhaust all possibilities. ANYWAY: anyone who's a fan of, say, Alias, is going to really enjoy this: Nadia is a fantastic heroine, and the world of hitmen/hitwomen is definitely fascinating. I loved the cast, the level of tension that keeps pages turning at a deliberate pace, and the mystery holding the whole story together of the Helter Skelter Killer was just a lovely excuse (and a well-played plot) that gave me a chance to get to know these people. I promptly bought book two, Made To Be Broken as soon as I finished this one, because while this book is certainly a stand-alone, the writing and characters are too good not to continue as soon as possible. I really, really enjoyed this, and it's definitely worth the time and money.
4) Benighted (2006)
Writer: Kit Whitfield
Genre: Urban/Dark Fantasy
A must have, especially for those of you who love werewolf stories of any kind and/or who really want something DIFFERENT out of a werewolf book. It's not something I fell head-over-heels in love on an emotional level, but the writing, the characterization, and the world-building, all of it is solid and the book gives you so much to think about in terms of larger issues. This isn't the kind of urban/dark fantasy that's meant to be addictive. In the end, it's going to make you think, whether you want it to or not. It'll surprise you, anger you, break your heart, and make you laugh. Whitfield takes the real world and splashes it all over these pages in all of its very ugly glory: she just makes the majority of humans lycos, and that creates an interesting and poignant tale. There's a part of me that hopes she might write another book in this world, maybe even featuring the main character as well, but then there's a part of me that hopes she does. This book is more than enough, even though I'm so invested I just want more and more details. No doubt, Whitfield is an author I'll keep an eye on in the future, no matter what she writes. I'm just glad I stumbled upon this one.
5) The Love We Share Without Knowing (2009)
Writer: Christopher Barzak
Genre: Fiction
This book absolutely charmed me. Maybe it was the the setting, all in Japan, and the way the culture that leaks through the pages and allowed me to suspend disbelief. The voice also sparkles with magical realism, as do some of the stories. It's just a beautiful book to read, and Barzak has earned a spot on my personal must-read list. Whatever he publishes, I'll be happy to get my hands on. His writing is quiet and beautiful, and this is a book that begs to be read more than once, over and over. Trust me, you'll want to. I wanted to as soon as I was done, and that's saying something.
6) Eyes Like Stars (2009)
Writer: Lisa Mantchev
Genre: YA/Fantasy
This is a DELIGHTFUL, FANTASTIC read. The unique setting (at least, it's unique to me, especially in YA) does wonders for the book, and I think even readers who aren't familiar with the theater are going to enjoy this very much. Fans of Shakespeare will also have fun, since all of the Players we meet are Shakespearean characters. The character interaction is just one of the many selling points of the book. There's also tension, mystery, intrigue, love, and of course, comedy. Those of you, like me, who are tired of faeries, have no fear: this book isn't about faeries, and the ones we have here are pure fun, pure comic relief. The pages fly when reading this book, and there's so much about it that's unique in terms of setting (and in some cases, style), that I'm just thrilled to bits with it. Readers who want something different from the usual fangs, fur, fey fare in YA need to get their hands on this book. Especially readers who, like me, enjoy a wee little bit of romance to keep the character relationships interesting. There's no doubt I'll pick up the sequel as soon as it's released, so I'm very, very glad I took a chance on this title. It's just too enjoyable and too much fun to ignore.
7) Indigo Springs (2009)
Writer: A.M. Dellamonica
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Any fan of contemporary fantasy (fantasy that takes place in today's world that is NOT Buffy-lit) must pick this up. The magic is creative and enchanting, and the characters are so very human in their motivations and interactions. The story itself pays off very nicely, even though it's obvious there's gonna be a sequel. That said, I was very pleased and very satisfied with this story, and I happily await said sequel. This is one of those books that lives up to the beauty of the cover art, so aside from a few bumps in the opening, you're gonna be fine.
8) War for the Oaks (1987)
Writer: Emma Bull
Genre: Urban Fantasy
This book was SO CLOSE to going on the "Keeper Shelf." That's how much I loved this book. And that's saying something, because you know I'm so very tired of faeries, but this book is above and beyond them all, even those series that I love. I think every single author writing urban fantasy/paranormal romance owes their career to this book, to say nothing of those writing about faeries. For a book that's over twenty-years old, it's still beautiful, engaging, and a must-read for anyone who's a fan of the urban fantasy genre, and it's really a MUST for anyone who wants to write (or is writing) in the genre. Trust me, it's fun to compare what Bull was doing twenty years ago to what's popular now. It's similarities and differences that are just delightful to look at. And this is also one of the many fantastic examples of balancing the fantasy elements with the urban setting. It really is. I loved this book so much that when I finished it, I promptly ordered Emma Bull's Bone Dance off Amazon. If that doesn't say something, I don't know what will.
9) Gunpowder (2008)
Writer: Joe Hill
Genre: Science Fiction
It's a lovely, tightly written little novella that's a treasure to own. If you've not read Joe Hill but don't want to check out his horror, this SF novella is worth the cash, though it may be more cash than you're willing to pay. I hope that Hill is able to get this released in some kind of collection or something later, because it's a fantastic little read, and I'm very glad I got a chance to get my hands on it. Hill's pretty much solidified himself as a must-read author for me, and I'm looking forward to the rest of his work. Note: this book will NOT be eligible for the top-ten giveaway. I'm sorry, but it's too hard to get a hold of and too expensive at that. :-/
10) Emissaries From the Dead (2008)
Writer: Adam-Troy Castro
Genre: Science Fiction
This isn't your usual kick-ass military heroine out to save the world. This heroine is a monster who doesn't know how to save herself and only saves her fellow human beings because she takes pride in her job and doesn't have the courage to off herself just yet. Emissaries From the Dead is a surprisingly complex novel that has a driving mystery and fascinating characters, none of whom are truly heroic but are interesting and human enough to make you wonder how it's all going to end up and who the villains really are. I was sort of dreading this book when I picked it up, because I was expecting your usual military kick-ass heroine, but now I can't wait for the sequel, so kudos to Castro. I'm glad to have discovered a new SF series to enjoy.
And now, the runners-up, in alphabetical order.
11) Ann Aguirre: Doubleblind
12) Paolo Bacigalupi: Pump Six and Other Stories
13) Jeaniene Frost: At Grave's End
14) Alison Goodman: Singing the Dogstar Blues
15) M.L.N. Hanover: Unclean Spirits: Book One of the Black Sun's Daughter
16) Richard Kadrey: Sandman Slim
17) L. Jagi Lamplighter: Prospero Lost
18) Pearl North: Libyrinth
19) Carrie Ryan: The Forest of Hands and Teeth
20) Peter Watts: Blindsight
That's all, folks! Stay tuned for the annual Top Ten Giveaway, will will come in a separate post. Now's the time though to take a long look at the top ten list and figure out which book you'll want when you enter!
So here's the usual disclaimers:
1) Ranking is hard, because I read a LOT of books during the year, and I'd love to include them all. As I did last year, I'm ranking the top ten, but you're going to get the runner's up list again. That, however, will be in alphabetical order.
2) I base the list on the stuff I read during the calendar year 2009, which is no big surprise. However, I do need to remind people that what I read in 2009 does not necessarily include the latest and greatest releases OF 2009, so don't expect as much. If you'd like to know what I'm pulling from, you can check out my full 2009 list here.
With that in mind, are you ready? :)
1) Santa Olivia (2009)
Writer: Jacqueline Carey
Genre: Science Fiction/Superhero
I absolutely loved, loved, loved this book. It's an absolute must for any fan of Jacquline Carey's work, and for those of you who aren't fans because you're wary of any explicit violence or sex, don't fear. This book is ENTIRELY DIFFERENT from the Kushiel series, so take note. It's not urban fantasy or paranormal romance or even superhero-fiction. It's a dystopic SF (or futuristic fiction if you prefer) that has a splash of vigilantism and a whole lot of boxing and a story that'll sweep you right off your feet. The characters are fantastic, people you really want to root for, and the relationships--romantic, platonic, and fraternal--really make this book a winner. It's a fantastic read, and I really hope Carey continues with this series.
2) Liar (2009)
Writer: Justine Larbalestier
Genre: YA/Fiction
There are very, very, VERY few books that I want to keep around to re-read over and over and over, but this is definitely one of them. The book engaged me on so many levels that I can't wait to read it again and see how the story changes. And because of the book's deliberate yet delightful ambiguity, this is a book I can enjoy over and over and come away with a different interpretation every time. If you're a reader who absolutely MUST HAVE a DEFINITE ENDING with DEFINITE ANSWERS, you may want to shy away from this one. But oh, that'd be a shame. This book is so well-crafted that you'd be missing out on a really great story. Like I said, whether you read YA or not, if you only ever read ONE novel in your life that's targeted to YA, you should read this one. Because it transcends age. It transcends genre. It's a memorable book that I won't soon forget, and once you read it, you won't either.
3) Exit Strategy (2007)
Writer: Kelley Armstrong
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
For Kelley Armstrong fans, this book is DEFINITELY a must, though you won't find it in SF/F/H. I've found this series in both the mystery/thriller shelves and just in regular fiction, so when you're looking in the store, make sure you exhaust all possibilities. ANYWAY: anyone who's a fan of, say, Alias, is going to really enjoy this: Nadia is a fantastic heroine, and the world of hitmen/hitwomen is definitely fascinating. I loved the cast, the level of tension that keeps pages turning at a deliberate pace, and the mystery holding the whole story together of the Helter Skelter Killer was just a lovely excuse (and a well-played plot) that gave me a chance to get to know these people. I promptly bought book two, Made To Be Broken as soon as I finished this one, because while this book is certainly a stand-alone, the writing and characters are too good not to continue as soon as possible. I really, really enjoyed this, and it's definitely worth the time and money.
4) Benighted (2006)
Writer: Kit Whitfield
Genre: Urban/Dark Fantasy
A must have, especially for those of you who love werewolf stories of any kind and/or who really want something DIFFERENT out of a werewolf book. It's not something I fell head-over-heels in love on an emotional level, but the writing, the characterization, and the world-building, all of it is solid and the book gives you so much to think about in terms of larger issues. This isn't the kind of urban/dark fantasy that's meant to be addictive. In the end, it's going to make you think, whether you want it to or not. It'll surprise you, anger you, break your heart, and make you laugh. Whitfield takes the real world and splashes it all over these pages in all of its very ugly glory: she just makes the majority of humans lycos, and that creates an interesting and poignant tale. There's a part of me that hopes she might write another book in this world, maybe even featuring the main character as well, but then there's a part of me that hopes she does. This book is more than enough, even though I'm so invested I just want more and more details. No doubt, Whitfield is an author I'll keep an eye on in the future, no matter what she writes. I'm just glad I stumbled upon this one.
5) The Love We Share Without Knowing (2009)
Writer: Christopher Barzak
Genre: Fiction
This book absolutely charmed me. Maybe it was the the setting, all in Japan, and the way the culture that leaks through the pages and allowed me to suspend disbelief. The voice also sparkles with magical realism, as do some of the stories. It's just a beautiful book to read, and Barzak has earned a spot on my personal must-read list. Whatever he publishes, I'll be happy to get my hands on. His writing is quiet and beautiful, and this is a book that begs to be read more than once, over and over. Trust me, you'll want to. I wanted to as soon as I was done, and that's saying something.
6) Eyes Like Stars (2009)
Writer: Lisa Mantchev
Genre: YA/Fantasy
This is a DELIGHTFUL, FANTASTIC read. The unique setting (at least, it's unique to me, especially in YA) does wonders for the book, and I think even readers who aren't familiar with the theater are going to enjoy this very much. Fans of Shakespeare will also have fun, since all of the Players we meet are Shakespearean characters. The character interaction is just one of the many selling points of the book. There's also tension, mystery, intrigue, love, and of course, comedy. Those of you, like me, who are tired of faeries, have no fear: this book isn't about faeries, and the ones we have here are pure fun, pure comic relief. The pages fly when reading this book, and there's so much about it that's unique in terms of setting (and in some cases, style), that I'm just thrilled to bits with it. Readers who want something different from the usual fangs, fur, fey fare in YA need to get their hands on this book. Especially readers who, like me, enjoy a wee little bit of romance to keep the character relationships interesting. There's no doubt I'll pick up the sequel as soon as it's released, so I'm very, very glad I took a chance on this title. It's just too enjoyable and too much fun to ignore.
7) Indigo Springs (2009)
Writer: A.M. Dellamonica
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Any fan of contemporary fantasy (fantasy that takes place in today's world that is NOT Buffy-lit) must pick this up. The magic is creative and enchanting, and the characters are so very human in their motivations and interactions. The story itself pays off very nicely, even though it's obvious there's gonna be a sequel. That said, I was very pleased and very satisfied with this story, and I happily await said sequel. This is one of those books that lives up to the beauty of the cover art, so aside from a few bumps in the opening, you're gonna be fine.
8) War for the Oaks (1987)
Writer: Emma Bull
Genre: Urban Fantasy
This book was SO CLOSE to going on the "Keeper Shelf." That's how much I loved this book. And that's saying something, because you know I'm so very tired of faeries, but this book is above and beyond them all, even those series that I love. I think every single author writing urban fantasy/paranormal romance owes their career to this book, to say nothing of those writing about faeries. For a book that's over twenty-years old, it's still beautiful, engaging, and a must-read for anyone who's a fan of the urban fantasy genre, and it's really a MUST for anyone who wants to write (or is writing) in the genre. Trust me, it's fun to compare what Bull was doing twenty years ago to what's popular now. It's similarities and differences that are just delightful to look at. And this is also one of the many fantastic examples of balancing the fantasy elements with the urban setting. It really is. I loved this book so much that when I finished it, I promptly ordered Emma Bull's Bone Dance off Amazon. If that doesn't say something, I don't know what will.
9) Gunpowder (2008)
Writer: Joe Hill
Genre: Science Fiction
It's a lovely, tightly written little novella that's a treasure to own. If you've not read Joe Hill but don't want to check out his horror, this SF novella is worth the cash, though it may be more cash than you're willing to pay. I hope that Hill is able to get this released in some kind of collection or something later, because it's a fantastic little read, and I'm very glad I got a chance to get my hands on it. Hill's pretty much solidified himself as a must-read author for me, and I'm looking forward to the rest of his work. Note: this book will NOT be eligible for the top-ten giveaway. I'm sorry, but it's too hard to get a hold of and too expensive at that. :-/
10) Emissaries From the Dead (2008)
Writer: Adam-Troy Castro
Genre: Science Fiction
This isn't your usual kick-ass military heroine out to save the world. This heroine is a monster who doesn't know how to save herself and only saves her fellow human beings because she takes pride in her job and doesn't have the courage to off herself just yet. Emissaries From the Dead is a surprisingly complex novel that has a driving mystery and fascinating characters, none of whom are truly heroic but are interesting and human enough to make you wonder how it's all going to end up and who the villains really are. I was sort of dreading this book when I picked it up, because I was expecting your usual military kick-ass heroine, but now I can't wait for the sequel, so kudos to Castro. I'm glad to have discovered a new SF series to enjoy.
And now, the runners-up, in alphabetical order.
11) Ann Aguirre: Doubleblind
12) Paolo Bacigalupi: Pump Six and Other Stories
13) Jeaniene Frost: At Grave's End
14) Alison Goodman: Singing the Dogstar Blues
15) M.L.N. Hanover: Unclean Spirits: Book One of the Black Sun's Daughter
16) Richard Kadrey: Sandman Slim
17) L. Jagi Lamplighter: Prospero Lost
18) Pearl North: Libyrinth
19) Carrie Ryan: The Forest of Hands and Teeth
20) Peter Watts: Blindsight
That's all, folks! Stay tuned for the annual Top Ten Giveaway, will will come in a separate post. Now's the time though to take a long look at the top ten list and figure out which book you'll want when you enter!