Hi all!

Today I am sharing my five favourite reads of 2022! Not all these books were published in the last twelve months, but I did read them for the first time last year. I’m so happy I hit my Goodreads target of 50 novels. I discovered some new gems I cannot stop recommending. Without further ado, let’s get into it!

1.) Just Like Mother by Anne Heltzel

Just Like Mother by Anne Heltzel was my favourite read of 2022. I fell in love with this book the moment I finished the first chapter. I devoured it within three days. It was our June bookclub pick of the month (read more here). It was so gripping, well-told and full of suspense. I need it turned into a Netflix series or film. If you’re a fan of Rosemary’s Baby, this is the story for you. Perfection!

2.) PenPal by Dathan Auerbach

PenPal by Dathan Auerbach was our bookclub pick for September (read more here) and it became an instant favourite. The story drew me in from the very first page and wouldn’t let go. I was mesmerised. I kept trying to piece the character’s life events together, despite the fact it wasn’t told in a linear way. It was disturbing, deeply sad and unsettling. I could easily it being adapted to screen. There is a fever-dream quality to the narration that won’t appeal to everybody, but it worked for me. I highly recommend it but note the trigger warnings beforehand.

3.) Horror Hotel by Victoria Fulton & Faith McClaren

Horror Hotel by Victoria Fulton & Faith McClaren was a pure joy to read. It had all the horror elements I love in a story. Not only that, it was based off the infamous Cecil Hotel – a haunted and notorious place in Los Angeles. It follows a group of ghost-hunters, that run a popular YouTube channel, eager for views and recognition. However, when they arrive at their destination, they get a lot more than they bargained for. This was a scary book, make no mistake. It was excellent. I love that it was co-written. Also, can we please appreciate the gorgeous cover below?

4.) The Ravenous Dead by Darcy Coates

My favourite horror author, Darcy Coates, released three books in 2022. However, The Ravenous Dead was my clear favourite. We also read it for my bookclub in April (read more here). This is the sequel to The Whispering Dead and it did not disappoint. The friendships were so wholesome and the scares, on point. Not only that, there was a nice little twist at the end, I didn’t see coming. 

5.) Come Closer by Sara Gran  

Come Closer by Sara Gran is a superior novella. You absolutely must read it if you love horror. It’s short but full of bone-chilling moments. We get a seductive possession story, the decline of a woman under the spell of a demon, devilish lore and more. It was an instant favourite for 2022. 

Thank you so much for reading! Please let me know your favourite reads of 2022! 

Peace & Love xoxo