Underrated Reads Of 2018

It’s the almost the end of 2018 and a lot of people are making lists of their favorite 2018 books! I love reading those lists, but I’m always wary of making them since I don’t want to forget anything and I’ve read a lot of amazing books this year. So, instead I decided to show off some books I adored, but I don’t think got all the love they deserve this year!

The Art Of French Kissing by Brianna R. Shrum

For me, this book had the best representation of anxiety I’ve ever read. I’ve never seen myself and my struggles with mental illness so clearly on the page. I loved how it was discussed and opened and how the struggles were there and present and worked through. Mistakes were made, but that’s alright. Teens make mistakes and anxiety is hard. On top of that, this book is freaking adorable.

Ignite The Stars by Maura Milan

I talk about this one all the time, I know, but it’s that good! It’s got a space military academy, fantastically done enemies-to-lovers, strong female characters, amazing female friendship, and chocolate dessert! I’m super pumped for the sequel, Eclipse The Skies, to come out!

Devils Unto Dust by Emma Berquist

This is a really fantastic western zombie book and I’m surprised more people aren’t talking about! While the western genre isn’t usually my style, I did really enjoy it. I loved the main character and the setting was really strong. I felt dusty the whole time, but in a good way haha. I also really liked the family relationships and the relationships in general.

The Spy With The Red Balloon by Katherine Locke

Queer teens get to beat up Nazis. Yep, it’s true and its awesome. There’s also magic, magic balloons, and science. And at the end there’s a tiny bit of chronic pain rep! It’s basically a bunch of awesomeness shoved inside a book.

Not Even Bones by Rebecca Shaeffer

This one is dark and morally gray. It was so different than anything I’ve ever read. I think it does a great job of blending monsters, urban fantasy, and questions of humanity into one complicated book. It should be interesting where the next book, Not Even Ashes, takes the story.

When I started this list, I wanted to put books on it that I don’t talk about a lot or haven’t really talked about before. I realized though that I actually read a lot of hyped books! Being a mood and slower reader definitely plays into that, though I’m hoping to try and read some less ‘big’ books next year! There are a lot of smaller books I hope to get to soon too!

Thank you for reading!