WORST to BEST books I read this year so far (2023)

Greetings! Over the past six months, I've been engrossed in an assortment of exceptional books, and I'm excited to share my thoughts on them with you. Let's embark on a roundup of the 23 books I've devoured during this period. I'll be arranging them from least to most impressive, a customary practice here. By the way, I recently visited a thrift store and stumbled upon a charming candle holder. It seems my room's transformation into an old-fashioned space is progressing. I've also delved into the world of puzzles, inching closer to my future interests.

Let's kick off with the "Not in My Garden" category, containing my least favorite read of the year so far. It's none other than "Misfit" by Ella Kennedy. If you're eager to witness Riverdale's essence encapsulated in a book, this is your go-to. Except, instead of football drama, you'll encounter the escapades of teenagers navigating their newly minted adulthood, filled with romantic encounters. A somewhat discomforting notion given they've all just turned 18. If snooping into someone's computer strikes you as romantic, this book might resonate, but for me, it left much to be desired. The story felt like a reality TV show—filled with toxic and nonsensical elements that somehow remain captivating.

In the same category, we have "Legends and Lattes" by Travis Baldry. This cozy fantasy featuring an orc and a coffee shop is initially heartwarming. Yet, the narrative loses steam when fantasy creatures' adventures with iced coffee and cinnamon rolls take precedence. While the romance holds promise, its rushed development hampers the story. Trimming certain characters might have provided more room for depth, making the experience more enjoyable. I must note that if you're a coffee enthusiast, your appreciation of this tale might differ, although caffeine doesn't align with my palate.

Moving on, "Manipulation," a short non-fiction piece, enters the "Hits and Misses" category. Though details elude me, the book raises intriguing points about subconscious manipulation and its presence in our interactions. While valuable, it sometimes delves into pseudoscience, warranting a cautious read. Angela Carter's "Heroes and Villains" paints a riveting feminist narrative with biblical undertones, albeit its brevity leaves character development wanting. Similarly, "Period Power" offers insightful guidance, but veers into pseudoscientific territories, demanding a discerning approach.

Transitioning to the "Consider Me Entertained" section, "The Demon Interviewed" explores a villain's origin story, injecting humor and insight into dark realms. "Bitter Thorn" crafts a touching romance in the context of a cozy fantasy, despite the story's pacing issues. Meanwhile, "The House in the Cerulean Sea" captivates with heartwarming tales of magical children and a charming house. Notably, the book's strength lies in themes of acceptance and belonging.

In the "Non-Fiction Slaps" category, "Letters to a Young Poet" offers sage advice, touching on creativity and self-discovery. "A Room of One's Own" delves into gender biases within literature, its relevance extended to contemporary perspectives. "Come As You Are" delves into the intricacies of female sexuality, a must-read for all, regardless of gender.

"Fantasy to Fill the Void" brings us "The Queen of Nothing," concluding the Folk of the Air trilogy. Though the series' culmination falls short of its predecessors, Holly Black's mastery remains evident. "Juniper and Thorn" offers witches, cannibalism, and demons in a tale of resilience and growth. Meanwhile, "Hellbent" wraps up the Ninth House series, blending dark academia with vivid descriptions, though character depth wavers.

At the summit, my "Cream of the Crop" reads. Sylvia Plath's "The Bell Jar" provides an introspective journey through mental health, exploring both negativity and poignant insights. "The Last Tale of the Flower Bride" captivates with its magical world, inspiring a renewed appreciation for art and mythology. And finally, "Serious Concerns" by Wendy Cope delivers relatable and humorous poetry, making life's absurdities a source of laughter and contemplation.

That concludes my exploration of the books I've encountered in the past months. Feel free to share your own favorites and let's keep the conversation about literature alive!