The new year is finally here! As 2022 gets started, so begins the time of resolutions that will most likely never last past January. However, there is one resolution you can commit to the whole year: read more! Easy, right? Well, maybe not for everyone.

In order to get you started (because you’re definitely going to read more, right?), I’ve compiled some of my recent favorites. They range over many different genres, so there is something for everyone! Reading is a great way to spend time away from screens, and stop thinking about all of the stressful things you have to do. It is truly the perfect escape! 

#5. Heartwood Box by Ann Aguirre

Moving to a completely new town would be hard for anyone. For teen Araceli, however, it begins an extreme chain of events. Author Ann Aguirre tells the story of a strange and magical box, which allows Araceli to communicate with those in the past.

As she begins to unfurl the mystery of her new town, she begins to notice the dangers around her. Aguirre crafts an offbeat mystery, with an unpredictable plot. I could not guess what was going to happen next. This is a great mystery that will keep you captivated until the very end!   

#4. The Betrothed by Kiera Cass

This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys fantasy stories. However, instead of your run of the mill happily ever after, author Kiera Cass writes about forbidden love and tragic loss. The characters are easy to connect with, and Cass’s eloquent writing makes it easy to visualize the story.

We are taken through whirlwind romances and daring escapes. Cass beautifully depicts a dystopian world full of royalty, where your status defines your living style. As characters search for love, betrayal and deceit are sure to follow.

#3. Turtles All The Way Down by John Green

While he may be mainly known for writing The Fault In Our Stars, author John Green uses his own experience to write a new hit. In this story, we are introduced to Aza, who suffers from anxiety and OCD. Green writes her inner dialogue in a realistic way, staying true to how these conditions change the way someone thinks. He calls on his own experiences, and opens up about his struggle with mental health.

This book has the elements of so many different genres that anyone could enjoy it. It has romance, emotion, mystery, and even humor. Green captures what many struggle with, and shows his readers that there is always help available. 

#2. Awake by Natasha Preston

Well, no surprise here: author Natasha Preston does it again with another amazing thriller! This book is truly something different. Rather than your usual murder-mystery, Preston takes us on a journey of family and lies. The protagonist discovers a deep secret her family has been hiding, and it pulls her on a crazy adventure.

Between killer cult members and traitorous boyfriends, you will not be able to stop turning pages. I will warn you that this story contains a lot of dark themes such as kidnapping and violence, so read with caution. This twisted story will keep you on the edge of your seat! 

#1. The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare

If you’re looking for a series to lose yourself in, then I have the perfect one for you! Author Cassandra Clare creates a world of angels and demons, plus every other kind of creature you can think of. It is a fantasy series, but it takes place in the real world. Clare uses this idea of setting in order to show just how close these creatures are to us.

We follow main character Clary Fray as she is thrown into a completely new adventure. She goes on an incredible journey, and meets some amazing people along the way. There’s humor, battles, magic, and even a bit of mythology. This series will certainly keep you busy, as it is part of an entire fictional universe that spans a movie, a TV show, and over 30 books!