Standalones Reading List

Recently I've been a little lost when it comes to choosing my next read. With all the books being a part of series I've been really wary of what I'm picking up especially because I don't have time to start any more series. So I compiled a list of standalone books that I've read and enjoyed and also a list that I would like to read. It's the best of both worlds: recommend and receive recommendations!

I Recommend:

Night Circus - Erin Morgenstern
Genre: Paranormal
This one had me confused for a good 75% of the book but again that's probably just me. Even after saying that, it is probably one of the most interesting books I've read. It was beautifully written and described and, although slow at parts, everything came together masterfully in the end. A real treat of a read.

Epic Fail - Claire LaZebnik
Genre: Contemporary, Classic Retelling
This one is more on the lighter side with it being a Pride and Prejudice modernized retelling. It's a real treat of a read; a great sunny afternoon happy read. I also recommend this one to those looking for an introduction to Pride and Prejudice, I read this before I read the real works and I'm grateful as it allowed me more insight into the series in a way that I can relate to and understand easily.

Between Shades of Gray - Ruta Sepetys
Genre: Historical Fiction
I usually don't pick up stories that are based around the holocaust but this one really intrigued me and for good reason. It's a great story that highlights events that took place in the Baltic under Hitler and Stalin's reign therefore reminding us of a forgotten people while making us fall in love with some new and dynamic characters. It makes you cry, it makes you laugh, but most of all it makes you take a step back and be thankful for all that you have in life. It also makes you look back in history and understand that we are the future and we should learn from the decisions of those before us.

You Against Me - Jenny Downham
Genre: Contemporary
This one is another heart-wrenching tale of family loyalty, love and honour. Reading the synopsis gave me chills, because of the situation the characters are placed in. Anything could have gone wrong, the romance could have gone horribly weary, blowing the whole plot and story out in the water but Downham managed to crack some amazing characters and give them life. They were confused, honourable and loving but also righteous. It made me questions what I would do if I were placed in there situations and I still don't know.

Faithful - Claudia Gray
Genre: Paranormal Romance
I will never be able to write a proper critical review of this one because of its setting; the Titanic. Ever since I can remember, I've been a history nerd. I find old things fascinating and old stories even more. Titanic has been among my all time favourite historic things so when I heard there was going to be a book set on it, you can probably predict my reaction. I ended up really enjoying the book though it didn't blow me away, it did have me involved and interested and the author's decision to make it a standalone increased my enjoyment even more. It was fun, thrilling with all the werewolf action plus 20th century chivalry and the ghosts of Rose and Jack in the background.

On the TBR

• Looking For Alaskta - John Green
• On the Jellicoe Road - Melina Marcchetta
• Code Name Verity - Elizabeth Wein
• The False Princess - Ellis O'Neal

 I've been meaning to read each and everyone of these for a while now. They are all very well received novels and their authors are also well loved.

In conclusion:

How do you feel about the never ending series in YA. I used to not mind it but recently, it's started to bug me. I remember the day when I could pick up a book become engrossed in it and finish it with a feeling of satisfaction. Now a days I'm finishing a book and then moaning for 3 days afterwards because the sequel will be out in a year's time.

How Do You Feel About Standalones? Any Recommendations?

-MARI