2018 was a year of powerful, diverse and heartwarming books for the YA scene. As we begin the new year, we look back at some of the books that impressed us most. Is there any question that it’s a great time to be a YA book reader?
From complex heroines to imaginative new worlds and dark mysteries, the Bookstacked Team sat down to identify which of 2018’s releases were la crème de la crème. While many fantastic books undoubtedly hit shelves throughout the year, these are the books that stood out to us the most. This list is in no particular order.
Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J. Maas
The beautifully descriptive writing and emotional journeys of all your favorite Throne of Glass characters have amalgamated in the fantastic conclusion to this bestselling series. Read Our Review.
Girls of Paper and Fire by Natasha Ngan
Ngan offers a diverse read that is desperately needed right now with a fresh, unique plot! Read Our Review.
Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
Adeyemi broke out in the YA world with a force thanks to her debut Children of Blood and Bone. A breath-taking, inventive, diverse — and most of all — relevant message make Children one of the best books of the year.
I Have Lost My Way by Gayle Forman
Gayle Forman always has great character development. So when three strangers spend an entire day together, Forman makes readers believe in fate and what’s meant to be is meant to be.
Thunderhead by Neal Shusterman
Shusterman manages to exceed the first novel of the series, Scythe, by producing a captivating novel through multiple perspectives from a variety of well-rounded characters. Read Our Review.
All the Little Lights by Jamie McGuire
McGuire mixes romance with psychological thriller! You’ll drive yourself crazy trying to figure out the truth about two small-town families.
Smoke and Iron by Rachel Caine
A book about books — what’s not to love? Caine deserves more recognition for this series than she receives. With incredible world-building and perfectly-flawed characters, Smoke and Iron is a delightful addition to an already wonderful series. Read Our Review.
The Fates Divide by Veronica Roth
Veronica Roth returns to her imaginative world introduced in Carve the Mark with an all-around smoother and exciting tale in Fates Divide. The writing is rich and bold and attention-grabbing. Read Our Review.
What was your favorite book of 2018?
Bookstacked Comment Policy
We welcome respectful comments. Our only rule is to be kind. Rude, hateful and generally mean-spirited comments will be removed.