It's no secret that I'm an avid reader. I love digging into a good book, especially on a rainy morning with a huge cup of coffee. Each year I set a reading goal and use my Goodreads account to track my progress. Side note: If you're looking to get into reading more, this is a great way to help! 

This year my reading goal is 75 books, with 5 of those books being classics. I'm 63 books into my goal this year and I'm anticipating reaching my 75 book goal. I wanted to share with you my top most favorite books I've read this year. These are not in any particular order.

I would like to start by saying that I read all of the Harry Potter books for the first time this year (insert crazy loud gasp and eye-roll here.) Yes, I waited until I was 26 to read them all and you know what, I AM SERIOUSLY OBSESSED. So I could just end this blog post here and say that the Harry Potter series was and is my most favorite read this year and forever.

BUT, I'm going to be nice and give you a few other favorites too. Just know that HP is where it's at.

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

This amazingly relevant book took me only a few days to read and I couldn't get enough. The main character, Starr Carter, witnesses her childhood friend shot by a police officer. Starr attempts to deal with her emotions after the shooting while also navigating the thoughts and feelings of those around her. This book made me laugh, cry, and gave me the space to think critically about our the society in which we live. It's a thought-provoking read!

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

Yes, I'm just now reading this amazing series! A crime novel with multiple strong story lines woven throughout, this book will definitely keep you on your toes. Lisbeth Salander, the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, is one of my favorite fictional characters. She's a brilliant, badass chick that doesn't need anyone's help. You may have seen the movie, but the book is definitely better. I've also read the other books in this series but this one is by far my favorite.

The Butterfly Garden by Dot Hutchison

A dark and twisty book that I gobbled up while traveling. This book is about a man who kidnaps and imprisons women as his personal "butterflies." He has their backs tattooed to resemble butterfly wings and they reside in his "garden" outside of his mansion. Two police officers try to solve the crime with the help of one of the butterfly survivors. This book kept me guessing and I really couldn't put it down.  

It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover

Not your traditional love story, this book will make you smile and make you cry. It's light but also very heavy with a great message. I love Colleen Hoover and the development she puts into her characters. I felt like I really knew Lily, Ryle, and Atlas while reading this book. If you're looking for an easy-to-read story of love and pain, this book is for you.

Into the Light by Aleatha Romig

Part one of a duology, Into the Light is about a cult known as "The Light" led by Father Gabriel. I can't go into too much detail here without letting you in on the major secrets, but this book (and the second one) was incredible. I loved the characters and the societal rules of the cult. Be on the lookout for some great twists in this amazing read!

There ya go! These are some of my top favorite books for 2017. For me, reading is good for my soul and it's something I do for myself to unwind, relax, and refocus. What are some of your favorite books? Any suggestions for my next reads? Leave me a comment below and connect with me on Goodreads!

Always remember #harrypotterrules.

For the love of books,

Emily