Aaah, books. There’s nothing quite like a good read besides a hot cup of tea and some delicious chocolates or Turkish delights. Books, to many of us, are the epitome of knowledge, magic and comfort. A newly published contemporary book does spark a unique sense of excitement, but to me, there is something very special and sentimental about older books that have been read by countless book worms before me. Take a look through this diverse list of the 10 best books to read this year!
This is definitely one of the best books to read this year, as well as a favourite on my list. Non-fictional and historical, Four Sisters is bound to make you delve into a world that has almost been lost in the passage of time. It tells an intriguing biographical account of the four daughters of the last Tsar of Russia, and is written in such a simple and almost light-hearted way that it feels as though this past world never really came to its tragic end. Four Sisters is a story of childhood, teenage-hood, family, love, war, treachery, politics and tragedy – all in one.
Excuse me and my history-related books, but they’re one of the absolute loves in life. This one is a historical-fiction novel and it is written in the first-person, autobiographical style. The first-person voice in this book is that of Princess Margaret Tudor, who is the sister of the notorious King Henry VIII of England and later became Queen Margaret of Scotland and the mother of King James V of Scotland. It’s a rather fascinating account of female drama, rebellion and jealousy, romance and heartbreak, as well as love and motherhood. Some parts are a little awkward to read in public (ahem ahem) but I must admit, other parts did make me laugh a few times, too! It’s insightful, it’s educational and it’s humorous as well as tragic. Definitely a top read for this year!
Yes! A fantasy novel! Yay. I carry an unconditional love for these, too. The Girl From Everywhere tells the story of a 16 year-old girl named Nix, who travels through time and space aboard her time-travelling father’s ship. The adventure and magic in this book is a dream, and will sweep you not only across the globe but also across centuries past. A must-read for this year!
A book with pictures in it! How exciting! This beautifully illustrated book is a collection of short, dark fantasy folklore-esque tales that are just perfect for midnight storytelling around a fireplace (if you’re a bit of a special weirdo, like me). It’s from the best selling author of Six Of Crows, so if you’ve already read the duology and loved it, then I highly recommend you pick The Language of Thorns for this year!
This is another non-fictitious biography of one of the most iconic figures in Islamic and European medieval history; Saladin. The man who united the Arabs and saved Islam from the Crusaders. It’s written with such intricate detail and in addition to it being a biographical account, really lays out the reality of Islam as one of the leading civilisations in the world at the time, and you get the sense of its rather uninhibited and tolerant nature. It’s a fantastic read for anybody looking to expand their horizons in terms of history and politics, and even learn a lesson or two about personal development! A must-have on your shelf for best books to read this year.
This refreshing book is one of those ‘old but gold’ types. As you can tell from its title, it is intended to help those of us who struggle with difficult people in our lives! It presents realistic and practical solutions and almost feels like an at-your-finger-tips cognitive behavioural therapist! It’s a great read and one I seriously recommend for your best books to read this year.
Business enthusiasts, this one is for you. It is an account of Robert Kiyosaki’s two fathers – his real dad and his wealthy dad – who both taught him important financial lessons that would eventually shape his life and his success in business. Rich Dad Poor Dad delivers content flowing with the most useful financial education and advice about making money, savings, investments, starting a business and much more. It is another ‘old but gold’, timeless book and definitely one to pick up for this year if you haven’t already.
Spy Princess is a non-fictional account of a Muslim princess of Indian-American descent, Noor Inayat Khan, whose heroic war endeavours will never be forgotten. It is the inspirational story of a brave young woman who sacrificed her life to become one of Britain’s most respected female heroines who helped to fight the Nazis during World War II. It is a touching story of family life, young adulthood, war and tragic ending. This is definitely one of the best books to read this year.
Gosh, I love the title on this book (if you know me, you’ll know why). This book is sort of re-telling of the Arabian Nights, and it is absolutely bursting with magic and mystery. It also provides the reader with a sharp, cheeky twist to the original story (which I’m not about to play the spoiler role here) and all I can tell you is READ IT because I fell in love from the moment I opened this book.
Are you an Oriental studies enthusiast? Does female power fascinate and inspire you? Then The Imperial Harem is a book you simply cannot miss out on. As you would expect from most historical accounts, the writing style is quite academic but the content is seriously bursting with intrigue and even some surprises! It examines the rise and fall of the era that is referred to as the ‘Sultanate of Women’ which denotes to the unprecedented political power and sovereignty of ruling women in 16th and 17th century Ottoman Empire – absolutely a fantastic read and quite positively educational!
*This is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
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