Kati’s Top Reads of 2012
In thinking about it, I didn’t think that 2012 was a particularly bad reading year for me. But when I looked back at my reviews, I realized that I wrote only two A-grade reviews. And once I started compiling my list, I could only come up with six titles that I would wholeheartedly recommend. These are in no particular order:
Archangel’s Storm by Nalini Singh – From the moment I first read about Jason in Nalini Singh’s superb Guild Hunters series, I began campaigning directly to the author for Jason’s story. She delivered exactly what I was looking for. Full of heartbreak and a poignant love story, Archangel’s Storm delivered the happy ending I was hoping Jason would receive. Review by me.
On Dublin Street by Samantha Young – I liked this book a bit better than Jane. I think part of it is that I like a heaping helping of Romangst with my romance, and this book certainly had it. Combine that with a dreamy hero, and I was sold. Review by Jane.
Motorcycle Man by Kristen Ashley – The review that was posted last week is still getting comments, such is the polarizing nature of Kristen Ashley’s writing style. I adore this book and have easily read it four or five times since the first time. Ashley either works for you, or doesn’t. She *totally* works for me. Review by me.
Chaos Burning by Lauren Dane – Lauren Dane consistently writes books that I love. Mostly because her heroines are seriously kick-ass and her heroes are to die for. The Bound by Magick series is one of her strongest, with a fully imagined world, and truly interesting characters. Review by me.
Tempting the Bride by Sherry Thomas – I so admire Thomas’s prose, her characterization and her voice. Her books tend to ruin me for others when I read them. 2012 was a banner year, as we got three Sherry Thomas books to wallow in. Tempting the Bride is my favorite of them, mostly because I think she does justice to a much maligned amnesia plot. Review by me.
Breath on Embers by Anne Calhoun – This is a late addition to what was going to be my list of five. I just finished this holiday-themed novella over the weekend. I loathe holiday themed stories, and I almost never read novellas, as I always feel like the romance gets short changed. This story blew both preconceived notions out of the water. It is a beautiful, emotional, fulfilling, resonant story. I can’t recommend it enough. Review by Dabney.
I’ve read 3 of your 6 – Archangel’s Storm, On Dublin Street and Breath on Embers. All excellent. :)
Sorry, but I hated On Dublin Street. Then again, I lived in Edinburgh for 4 years so I’m very protective of my city and the crap that use it as a setting. I have a severe allergy to the alpha-jerk love interest.