Top Five Books of 2014

Bookmarque: Stories of orphans and outsiders usually follow a familiar storyline, but this novel surprised me both in characterization and in plot. Set in an unusual location and time it is an introspective and engrossing novel.

Bookmarque: A quietly menacing novel about people caught in the grip of an evil man. As he tightens his fingers, things slip through including honesty and love. Great use of language, gothic and powerful.

Bookmarque: I doubted a decades old psychological thriller could do anything to surprise me, but I was very wrong. Levin’s sleight of hand as an author is nothing short of amazing. When you realize what you’ve been reading and the penny drops, your jaw will also. I promise.

Bookmarque: Conveys the anguish of racially motivated social ostracism without beating you over the head with it. Creates a complex family dynamic without creating villains and victims. Well-written with plenty to think about after you’re done.

Bookmarque: Infused with autobiographical insights and Bradbury’s trademark prose full dark surprise, this detective novel doesn’t follow any rules. Sinister and light at the same time, full of delirium and friendship, worlds within worlds it is sure to delight any adventurous crime novel fan.