Favorites of 2011

It took me long enough, I know. It was harder than you realize to narrow down the list too. I had 25 books designated as favorites this year. I didn't think you all would let me list them all, so I had to go through them and pick out those that were the very best of the best. Here's that list (in ABC order):

Best of 2011

1. A Lasting Impression by Tamera Alexander ~ I still think this is one of the most most stunning covers. I love looking at the book - and the inside is just as good.

2. Dance of the Dandelion by Dina L. Sleiman ~ This was one of those fantastic surprises you're so thankful you got a chance to read. If you haven't yet ... 

3. Letting Go by Michelle Sutton ~ Michelle tackles subjects other authors wouldn't want to come anywhere close to. This is a great example of how well she does it.

4. Surrender the Dawn by M.L. Tyndall ~ I pre-order all her books and haven't regretted it yet. They all have plenty of adventure and romance. 

5. Surrender the Night by MaryLu Tyndall ~ This is one of those stories that reaches off the page and captures your heart. I felt I lived it all with Rose.

6. The Colonel's Lady by Laura Franz ~ This one had everything ~ a little mystery, a little adventure, a lot of romance, colorful characters ... I didn't want it to end.

7. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins ~ {blushing} I didn't read the 1st book until this year. It's my favorite book in the series. If you don't know what all the fuss is about, you should really check it out. It's great fodder for discussion.

8. The Lady of Bolton Hill by Elizabeth Camden ~ I talk a lot about characters, but this book sort of exemplified what those can mean to a story. Gorgeous.

9. The Merchant's Daughter by Melanie Dickerson ~ This is pure magic. She manages to make the story totally new and keep the heart at the same time.

10. While We're Far Apart by Lynn Austen ~ This has a lot of layers - and tons about relationships. I found it very touching and the kind of thing that changes you ... makes you feel as if you've read about real people.

Well, that's my list. I thought about adding honorable mentions, but I better end before it gets to be every book I read this year. lol