Books To Get Out Of A Reading Slump
- Maida Kourounlian
- Sep 9, 2024
- 5 min read
Every couple of months, I find myself in a reading slump, and from experience, I know how hard it is to get out. Therefore, I have compiled a list of fast-paced, attention-gripping books to get you back into reading.
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
This is a fantasy novel set in a world of magic .It follows a group of six outcasts, led by the cunning criminal mastermind Kaz Brekker, who are tasked with pulling off an impossible heist. Since this book contains chapers from each charachter's point of view, each character brings their own unique skills and troubled pasts to the mission, creating a thrilling, high-stakes adventure. The story is rich in world-building, exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and survival, all while the characters navigate complex relationships and dangerous enemies in a gritty, atmospheric setting however heartwarming as they find comfort and family in eachother's company
2. THESE VIOLENT DELIGHTS by Chloe Gong
This is a reimagining of Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet', set in 1920s Shanghai. It follows two rival heirs, Juliette Cai and Roma Montagov, whose families control opposing criminal factions. As a mysterious plague starts to wreak havoc on the city, the two must set aside their grudges and work together to uncover its source. The novel blends romance, political intrigue, and historical fantasy, exploring themes of loyalty, identity, and the cost of power in a turbulent time. This book is absolutely amazing. I can honestly say that I could not put it down, and it 100% got me out of my reading slump this year.
3. THE SILENT PATIENT by Alex Michaelides
'The Silent Patient' by Alex Michaelides is a psychological thriller about Alicia Berenson, a famous painter who suddenly shoots her husband and then becomes completely mute. Her silence captivates the public, and criminal psychotherapist Theo Faber becomes determined to uncover the truth behind her actions. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia's life and mind, he uncovers shocking secrets that blur the lines between obsession, trauma, and the human psyche, leading to a gripping, unexpected conclusion. This book is the best psychological thriller I've ever read! It ended my year-long reading slump last year and left me shocked by the end of it.
4. AMERICAN ROYALS by Katharine McGee
This is set in an alternate history where America became a monarchy after the Revolutionary War. The story follows the fictional Washington royal family, focusing on Princess Beatrice, the heir to the throne, her younger siblings, Samantha and Jefferson, Samantha's commoner best friend Nina, and Daphne who is determined to marry Jefferson and become the next princess. As Beatrice prepares to become the first queen of America, she faces pressure, personal sacrifice, and the weight of royal duty. This book is full of drama, gossip, romance, and fun! When I read it, it reminded me of Gossip Girl but with royalty! It is such a fun and lighthearted book; I wish I could read it again for the first time.
5. ONCE UPON A BROKEN HEART by Stephanie Garber
This is a fantasy novel about Evangeline Fox, a young woman desperate to stop the wedding of the man she loves. She strikes a deal with Jacks, the Prince of Hearts, a fate known for causing heartbreak. In exchange for his help, Evangeline owes Jacks three kisses, which sets her on a dangerous path filled with enchantment, deception, and magic. The novel is set in the fantastical world of 'The Magical North' and full of magic, prophecies, and adventures. I love this book so much I cannot put into words how good it was! I read it in 1 day; it is truly one of the best fantasy books I've read in my life.
6. THE POPPY WAR by R.F Kuang
This is a grim/dark fantasy novel inspired by Chinese history and mythology. It follows Rin, a poor orphan who defies the odds to get into an elite military academy. As war looms, she discovers she has a rare and dangerous ability to channel the power of gods. The novel explores themes of war, power, identity, and the cost of survival, weaving together magic, military strategy, and brutal historical events in a world shaped by violence and conquest. This book is the best fantasy book I've ever read. The writing, plot, and the characters are spectacular, and this is yet another book that got me through a reading slump last summer! It is quite dark in some parts as it deals with war and war crimes, so this book might not be for everyone!
7. THE HOUSEMAID by Frieda McFadden
This is a psychological thriller about Millie, a woman who takes a job as a live-in housemaid for a wealthy family, hoping to rebuild her life. As she settles into the job, she discovers that things are far from perfect in the seemingly perfect family, especially with Nina, the erratic and controlling wife. Strange events begin to unfold, and as Millie uncovers disturbing secrets about the family, she realizes she might be in more danger than she ever imagined. The novel is filled with twists, suspense, and dark revelations. I love this book so much! It has an insane plot twist that will leave you shocked! This book kept me at the edge of my seat and from the first page gripped my attention!
8. FOURTH WING by Rebecca Yarros
This is a fantasy novel set in a world where elite dragon riders are trained to protect their kingdom. It follows Violet Sorrengail, a young woman forced to join a brutal military training program for dragon riders, despite her smaller size and fragile health. As she struggles to survive the deadly trials, form alliances, and bond with a dragon, Violet uncovers hidden dangers and political schemes within the kingdom. This novel was so good that it felt like I was watching a movie in my head and not reading! It is such a thrilling and fun book, and I can confirm that I could not put it down.
9. THE HUNGER GAMES by Suzanne Collins
This is a dystopian novel set in a future society where the oppressive Capitol controls twelve districts. Each year, one boy and one girl from each district are chosen to participate in a televised fight to the death called the Hunger Games. The story follows Katniss Everdeen, a 16-year-old from District 12, who volunteers to take her sister’s place in the Games. As she fights for survival, Katniss becomes a symbol of defiance against the Capitol's tyranny, navigating themes of survival, power, and rebellion. Though I read this about 4 years ago, I vividly remember reading this so fast and even during online school instead of doing the work! This book has an amazingly written plot which keeps the reader engaged and intrigued from the first page up to the very last page!
10. DIVERGENT by Veronica Roth
This is a dystopian novel set in a future society divided into five factions, each representing a different virtue: Abnegation, Amity, Candor, Dauntless, and Erudite. The story follows Beatrice "Tris" Prior, who discovers she is "Divergent," meaning she does not fit neatly into any one faction. As Tris navigates the challenges of her chosen faction, Dauntless, she uncovers a conspiracy threatening the stability of the society and must confront dangerous secrets about her identity and the world she lives in. This was the very first YA book that I read when I was 11, and even though it's been 5 years, I still think about this book and how I flew through it. I believe this is also one of those books where you forget you are actually reading!
I hope this list was useful and that at least one of these incredible books gets you through your reading slump! They certainly got me through mine!
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