Tell Me Something Tuesday is a weekly discussion post here on Rainy Day Ramblings where I discuss a wide range of topics from books to blogging. Weigh in and join the conversation by adding your thoughts in the comments. If you want to do your own post, grab the question and answer it on your blog.
This week’s topic:
Best Books of 2018
At last, we have come to the last Tell Me Something Tuesday of the year. This is one of my favorite TMST as I love sharing all of my top reads from the past year. It feels like my five star list gets shorter every year, probably because I am far more picky. Here are the books that made the cut.
These were my favorite reads of 2018:
Crooked Kingdom by Leah Bardugo:
Crooked Kingdom delivers a fast paced, riveting tale with suspense, stunning and complicated plot twists, outstanding characters in an intricate world. I loved this one, and whole heartedly recommend it. Just keep in mind that this one is complex and it is best read in short succession after book one to keep it all straight. Ms. Bardugo has proven again and again that she is an author you should be reading. Get her books and get after it!


Ready Player One by Ernest Cline: I am so glad I listened to this book before the movie released. The book is so much better than the movie. I loved the world building, the story, the romance and all of the twists. This was a thrilling read, couldn’t get enough. Of course, I adored all the eighties nods. If you haven’t read this book, do it!


Beneath the Sugar Sky by Seanan McGuire:
Beneath the Sugar Sky is an immediate favorite in one of the most ingenious and creative series I have ever read. I love the realistic, relatable characters and the issues they deal with. The world building is outstanding. I adore these creative worlds, and I am always eager for the next door. If you want a clever, unique and imaginative series that you will devour, this is it. READ THIS SERIES!


The Recipe Box by Viola Shipman:
This book was the perfect pick me up, feel good read that I crave. This book has so much heart and soul. It is all about family, roots, heart, home and recipes. If you want a book with scrumptious recipes and a wonderful story, this is one to grab. This will be a favorite on my shelf.

Small Town Rumors by Carolyn Brown:
Small Town Rumors was a delightful read. I loved the characters, the story, the setting and the romance. This is the perfect little book for light, fun summer reading, or anytime you want a feel good pick me up read. This book made me laugh and cry. Loved it!


The Ladies’ Room by Carolyn Brown:
This book was a wonderful pick me up read. I loved that this was all about Trudy’s journey to change her life. So many uplifting scenes in this one. It is packed full of life, love, friendship, forgiveness and a touch of romance. Don’t miss it!


Sadie by Courtney Summers:
Sadie is a book that was tough to read, but so important. In this era of #MeToo, it is all the more impactful. Read this, discuss this and share it. Sexual assault and molestation are not topics anyone wants to talk about, but we must. Thank you to Ms. Summers for writing this brutal and raw book.


Kill the Queen by Jennifer Estep:
Kill the Queen is one of the best books I have read this year. I loved the thrilling action, the characters, the villain, the magic and the danger. This book was a page turner. I was immediately sucked in, and I couldn’t put it down. If you want a light fantasy with plenty of thrills, this is one to read. Do not miss this Kill the Queen. It is was one of the best books of 2018. I am eagerly anticipating the sequel!


Muse of Nightmares by Laini Taylor:
Muse of Nightmares lived up to its predecessor, and in my opinion, exceeded the first book. I thought this book was brilliant. The characters are amazing, the world building is outstanding, the writing is superb, and the story telling is sophisticated. If you have not experienced the genius and brilliance of Laini Taylor, I urge you to try this series. This book will likely end up my favorite book of 2018.


Diamond Fire by Ilona Andrews: I just can’t get enough of the Ilona Andrews team. I was so excited to get this novella. This one is told via Catalina’s view point. It was thrilling to see Catalina step up and learn to wield her magic. I can’t wait for more from her. Plus there is a wedding and lots of mayhem.


One Day in December by Josie Silver:
One Day in December is a book that grabbed a hold of my heart and emotions and kept them captive until the final page. This is a romance based on fate and destiny as well as missed opportunities, friendship and time. I loved the realism of the book, the characters and the story. This novel was amazing. It made me smile, it made me cry, it made me feel. Read it!


My Favorite Half-Night Stand by Christina Lauren:
My Favorite Half-Night Stand was a hilarious book that made me giggle throughout. I loved the friendship, the humor and I especially got a kick out of watching the nerdy group of friends trying to find love online. If you love friends to lovers romances and you are a fan of quirky humor and eccentric characters read this. I loved it.


A wide array of books. Loved them all, but if I had to pick a favorite it would be Muse of Nightmares.
What about you all, what was your favorite book of the year?
Tell Me Something Tuesday will be on hiatus until 2019 as my blog will be on break the last couple of weeks in December.
It will return on January 8th.
Here is the question:
What word or phrase did you choose to inspire you for 2019?
If you want to get more TMST questions for next year, drop me an email, I have them written out for months. Thanks again for being along for another year of blogging. Best wishes to you and yours for a joyous holiday season.