I’ve read 24 books so far this year and most of them have been very enjoyable. There are some, though, that sparkle and shine in my memory like sunshine on the water. These books are precious experiences, novels full of power and delight. They made my soul sing.
1. The Blank Wall by Elisabeth Sanxay Holding
“This is a spectacular suspense novel and would have been wonderful if it was just that. The fact that it is also a thought-provoking social study is a bonus that I wasn’t expecting. I can’t recall ever having been haunted by a mystery novel before, but this book has stayed with me and has led me to wonder about the lives of all the women who were suddenly thrust outside of their comfort zones when their husbands went off to war.”
2. Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein
“If you like reading books about World War II this is a must read. If you like stories about extraordinary friendships this is a must read. If you like tales of adventure and daring this is a must read. I have immense admiration for the historical accuracy and detail in this novel and for the way Wein completely brings the reality of the French resistance to life. And Verity and Maddie are two characters I came to love and will never forget and I hope you will come to love them too.”
3. Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather
“Magic and magnificence emanate from this tale. I could enthuse non-stop about how much I loved it, but instead I will urge you to discover the beauty for yourself.”
4. Excellent Women by Barbara Pym
“Excellent Women is an excellent book! I am so glad that I finally read it and now I am committed to reading all of Pym’s novels. I love that Pym writes about spinsters who I can identify with. As an old-fashioned girl I’ve never felt like I’ve really recognized myself in any contemporary literary women, but I think there just might be a tiny piece of Mildred Lathbury in me and I’m happy about that.”
5. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
“I love this book in a major way. Miller has a talent for making the ancient stories entirely believable and I felt immersed every time I opened the pages. Her writing has that dreamy, lyrical quality that lulls your senses and makes you float along on the cloud of her narrative.”
I adored each of these five books. Have you read any of them? What are your favorite books of 2012?
Have I thanked you for reading lately? Thanks, friends.
Go here for creative inspiration.
And also, don’t forget about Rosamond Lehmann Reading Week next week! Are you ready?
A Certain Fondness 
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