Staff Members’ Favorite Books Read In 2022
We read a lot of fantastic books in 2022 so we’d like to share a few of our very favorite books with you. Although it was difficult for a lot of us to choose just one! Have you read any of our picks? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below.
Read in 2022
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
I listened to it on audio and it was a fantastic narration. The book was a phenomenal feminist tale- quirky, funny, clever, and at times dark. I think fans of The Maid by Nita Prose might enjoy. ~ Chris, Director
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So this is Ever After by F.T. Lukens
Lukens put together a delightful cast of characters for an original take on what happens when a fantasy quest reaches its end. I adore the found family they create and the shenanigans that result from a bunch of wanderlust adventurers trying to figure out what it means to settle into a new life. ~Vic, Collection Development Librarian
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One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle
A mother/daughter love story that continues after the mother’s death. The story takes place on the Amalfi Coast, and the descriptions of the sights, sounds, and tastes transport you to Italy. A lovely, touching story. ~ Jeanne, Collection Development Librarian
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How to be perfect: The correct answer to every moral question by Michael Schur
One of my favorite reads in 2022. It was a hilarious and easy to understand overview of moral philosophy, which doesn’t seem to make sense, but trust me on this. Fans of The Good Place will really appreciate this one, and the audiobook was 10 stars. ~Kasey, Branch Manager
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Nettle and Bone by T. Kingfisher
One of my favorite reads in 2022. The youngest of three sisters realizes her sister is in danger and realizes no one will save her, so she decides to do it on her own. This novel has a lot of classic Fantasy tropes and humor packed into a dark fantasy with a plotline about the nature of power, abuse, and families. She does it very well and by the end you’re reading it and hoping the group of misfits helping the princess will “have fun storming the castle.” ~Ashley, Branch Supervisor
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Beyond the Wand: The Magic & Mayhem of Growing Up a Wizard by Tom Felton
Anyone who loves the world of Harry Potter will enjoy the behind-the-scenes stories of the films, but I think even people who aren’t as familiar with Harry Potter could connect with Felton’s open discussions about his mental health struggles as an adult. Two thumbs up from me, and will Tom Felton please become my new best friend? ~ Danielle, Technical Assistant
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A Rip Through Time by Kelley Armstrong
This is a suspense/mystery with a hint of romance and the first book in a new series. With dual era timelines, a girl switches places with another girl from another time. The story keeps you guessing. It’s an interesting look into how woman were treated differently in historical times. 10 out of 10. ~Tanya, Library Assistant Specialist
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A World of Curiosities by Louise Penny
Creepy, gruesome, atmospheric. The perp’s identity surprised me: the typical reader (like me, I think) will have considered but discarded him as a suspect midway through. You’ll want to read the Inspector Gamache series in order because the many recurring characters change and develop over time. A World of Curiosities is No. 18, so you’ll be happily occupied with this through a lot of 2023. ~ Laurie, Branch Manager
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The Manningtree Witches by AK Blakemore
“England, 1643. Parliament is battling the King; the war between the Roundheads and the Cavaliers rages. Puritanical fervour has gripped the nation, and the hot terror of damnation burns black in every shadow.”
Excellent book, an amazing debut novel by poet A.K. Blakemore! ~ Andy, Adult Services Librarian
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The Wolf and the Woodsman by Ava Reid
It’s inspired by Hungarian mythology and tells the story of a woman who is outcast from her village for being powerless and is sent to the King for sacrifice. It’s a compelling fantasy full of monsters, finding family, and finding yourself, with a nice underlying slow-burn romance. I really really loved this one! ~ Morgan, Youth Services Specialist
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The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany by Lori Nelson Spielman
This was one of those books that you pick because the cover catches your eye. I couldn’t put it down and absolutely loved the whole story. The range of emotions that it made me feel as I read, too. There were a lot of wonderful reads last year though, it’s so tough to have one favorite! ~ Jody, Library Assistant Specialist
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Yours Cruelly, Elvira by Cassandra Peterson
I love a celebrity memoir read by the author and this audiobook did not disappoint for the name dropping and stories. Elvira is one of those celebrity figures I’m aware of, but knew nothing about. ~ Andrea, Department Manager
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The Measure by Nikki Erlick
I love a little magical realism and I thought the premise was so good. There were twists and turns I didn’t see coming and I was thoroughly engaged the whole time. Also The Measure has a large cast of characters all intertwined, which is something I love. ~ Elyse, Branch Manager
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Maybe Someday by Colleen Hoover
Hoover throws in a great twist fairly early on which will have you emotionally invested in these characters. The best part though is Hoover had a musician friend of hers write and record an original soundtrack for the book! When the characters reference the songs in the story, you can actually listen to them and you feel as if you are actually in the story. It was a very unique experience and it gave the book that much more of an emotional impact. ~ Katie, Library Assistant Specialist
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The Poet’s Dog by Patricia MacLachlan
Short and sweet (published the year I graduated high school, so not new at all!) Sad in a couple of places but with a very happy ending and told from a dog’s point of view, which I love! ~ Skye, Youth Services Specialist
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The Puzzler by AJ Jacobs
AJ Jacobs writes about his experiences with and explorations of many different kinds of puzzles, including anagrams, Sudoku, and Rubik’s cubes. His lighthearted writing, along with puzzles to solve along the way, made this a delightful read! I recommend this to any and all puzzlers. ~ Kristina, Library Assistant Specialist
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In closing
Library staff read so many good books last year – these are just a few of our favorites. If you’re looking for additional reading suggestions, ask us during your next visit to a branch.
Or explore our online resource, NoveList Plus. Or sign up for Recommends, our personalized reading suggestions via email service.
