I did it. I actually did it. I have completed my goodreads reading challenge! I only challenged myself to read 50 books, but up until summer I was so far behind with it I never though I would actually achieve it. Now I have, and two months early! I never put pressure on myself to achieve it though, even though I wanted to! But this meant that I could just enjoy reading, after having a major reading slump throughout most of 2014 / early 2015. Thank goodness that’s over. I shall refer to those months as the dark ages.

But in celebration I thought I’d look back and share some of my favourite reads from the 50, and narrowing it down was not easy at all, but I think I have a reasonable amount to share – 5. (Well, 6.) They’re not in an order. That would be impossible.

The Queen of the Tearling / The Invasion of the Tearling – Erika Johansen 

These books are just so good! Honestly, I thought they’d be okay when I picked up the first one during summer, but it went way beyond my expectations and I immediately went and picked up the second one. I finished that one at 2am the other morning because I couldn’t put it down, which is why I wouldn’t allow myself to pick it up during school time as I had too much work and not enough time! (I now consider myself a master of self control). If you haven’t read them yet, please do. They’re now on my favourites list of all time. The only bad thing about them is that the third book isn’t out until next summer…

Go Set a Watchman – Harper Lee

I still can’t believe that this book is a thing. To Kill a Mockingbird is my favourite book of all time so needless to say I was more than a little excited for this one. (I was trembling with excitement when it arrived – more excited than a five year old for christmas I think!) It was so great to read more about Scout and Atticus and what happened next in their lives.

The Wrath and the Dawn – Renée Ahdieh 

If you’ve read my review, you will know just how much I loved this book. It’s so unique and different, especially to what I’d normally read. I absolutely adored the setting and characters in this book and this is another which has a sequel out next year and I desperately want to get my hands on!

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe – Benjamin Alire Sáenz

If I had to pick a word to describe this book it would be an easy decision: beautiful. I feel head over heels in love with the story, the characters, the writing style – everything to do with this book. It was stunning and I plan to reread it very, very soon, which is usual as I’m not a big on for rereading books, especially not so soon after I finished it! (Usually I leave at least a year!)

The Giver – Lois Lowry

This was such a thought-provoking read, and actually quite short too. I don’t know whether it’s because I particularly enjoy books that make you think and question basically everything, but this was such a good book and I would really recommend it! It was actually the first book that I read in 2015 – so it’s clearly left an impression!