The 8 Popular Books You Need To Read Before The End Of The Year

By Victoria Robertson on July 30, 2016

Avid readers have one thing in common: they’re always looking for a new, captivating novel to get them through their downtime. Whether you have a little bit of time to read or hours on end, everyone can agree that a good book is the perfect escape.

That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the eight books that all readers have been buzzing about, and that you need to include on your must-read list. Even if you can’t get through all of them, pick and choose a few and add them to your “must-read” lists, as these titles are ones that readers everywhere are going to remember for quite some time to come.

These books range — from release date, to genre, etc. — but they are universally well-written and definitely worth your time.

So without further ado, here are the eight books you need to read before the end of the year.

1. “The Girls” — Emma Cline

“The Girls” is a recent release (June 14 of this year) that has already captivated readers all over the world. The so-called “reimagining” of Charles Manson’s cult, “The Girls” is an eerie, extremely well-written tale of a sisterhood in its darkest form. It follows protagonist Evie as she becomes enchanted by the cult’s promises of freedom.

The violence and thrilling content aren’t for all, but for those that enjoy a novel that’s going to keep you on the edge of your seat the whole way through, this is the book you need to pick up as soon as possible.

2. “Before the Fall” — Noah Hawley

Another recent release that hit shelves back in May of this year, “Before the Fall” is the textual version of ABC’s hit show, “Lost.” At least, it’s similar. There’s a plane crash and some very confusing aftermath that takes you for a whirlwind journey down to the last page.

The book is rather jumpy — moving quickly from present tense to the backstories of the 11 passengers on the flight — but it’s a thrilling text that will keep you guessing throughout. And a film is rumored to be in the works, so definitely read this one before those rumors become a reality!

3. “Only Ever Yours” — Louisa O’Neill

Yes, this is a “feminist” novel. No, it’s not like any you’ve read before. “Only Ever Yours” is a journey into a world where women are actually created for the benefit of men — there is no individuality or natural beauty. Females are actually trained to be everything that men desire.

The story is about friendship, love and an overpowering male gaze that serves as a commentary on modern society and the unrealistic standards placed on women to be what society deems “beautiful.” It’s well-written and captivating without being overly preachy.

4. “The Association of Small Bombs” — Karan Mahajan

This book might be a little touchy considering the terror attacks throughout the world, but there really isn’t a better time to read this fantastic novel. Released on March 22 of this year, “The Association of Small Bombs” discusses the emotional, raw aftermath of a terror attack so brilliantly that everyone will be moved.

It’s certainly not a light, carefree read, but rather a serious one that should be a requirement, especially in this day and age. No matter your genre preferences, this is one you’ll want to pick up. And you’re not going to be able to put it down.

5. “Eligible” — Curtis Sittenfeld

By this point, almost everyone has read, or at least heard of, Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.” And there have been countless reimaginings, fan fiction and films to follow. However, “Eligible” stands out as one of the most engaging, new-aged imaginings of the classic text, so much so that it has been all the buzz throughout the book world.

The text follows the same, beloved characters in a modern setting living out modern issues. But perhaps the most fantastic of all is that the pressures of love have not, and will probably never, change. And that’s why this is a must-read for all audiences.

6. “Lily and the Octopus” — Steven Rowley

We live in a time where more and more people are deciding against traditional forms of love — marriage, children, etc. Instead, people are breaking out and marching to the beat of their own drum. That’s exactly what main character Ted Flask is doing.

His companion, his “special someone” is his dog, Lily. And to be honest, we couldn’t relate more. The text discusses the absolute highs and lows in love, all through a man’s relationship with his dog. It’s a feel-good, beautiful text that you’re going to adore.

7. “Scrappy Little Nobody” — Anna Kendrick

Not yet released, Anna Kendrick’s debut novel has the world abuzz, and for good reason. The text is described as a collection of essays describing her life — past and present — and you can expect it to be filled with that seamless Kendrick sarcasm and wit that we’ve come to know and love.

The book will be released on November 15 of this year, and I recommend you run to the shelves to grab it, because it’s without a doubt going to be the must-read of the holiday season.

8. “& Sons” — David Gilbert

I’ll start with a large disclaimer: this is not going to be everyone’s cup of tea. That being said, it is perhaps one of the most well-written texts I’ve ever encountered. While it can be slow at times, and often difficult to follow as it jumps between characters without warning, “& Sons” is a text that all can identify with, whether they like it or not.

The best part about this text is that it doesn’t pretend to be anything other than what it is — its characters are infuriating, the relationships are far from perfect and ultimately, there isn’t much of a plot. But what you’re getting into with this specific book is a deep, beautiful unveiling of some imperfect people in a near perfect narrative you’re going to admire the whole way through, even if the content isn’t all that thrilling.

So whether you’re looking for light and funny, dark and mysterious or just plain entertaining, there’s a book on this list to fit everyone’s fancy. So head on over to your local bookstore (or Amazon, for you homebodies out there) and buy a copy and get to reading!

Fantastic novels await!

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