Well, it’s been years since I last shared any new book reviews, and during that time, I’ve read a lot. As you can imagine, there have been some good ones (and some duds). So, my plan is to catch you up on the ones I liked best, sticking to five novels per post. That way, you won’t have to sort through too much to find your next read.

For this month’s book reviews, I’m time traveling to 2022. I read some really great stories that year. Here are just a few of the standouts. And, as a bonus, you should be able to snag these at the library.

Pachinko

Synopsis: This beautifully told story follows one Korean family’s immigration to Japan. Spanning generations, it dives into the history and culture of these two countries.

My Take: I remember it took me a little bit to get into this book. However, I have never been happier to have stuck with something. A masterpiece, I can’t recommend Pachinko enough.

Lessons in Chemistry

Synopsis: Bonnie Garmus chronicles the sexism and discrimination of the 1960’s through the trials of her heroine, Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant scientist. Told with wit and originality, you’ll be rooting for Elizabeth through every hurdle she encounters.

My Take: This book had most of us in a chokehold in 2022. I think everyone I know has read it. If for some reason you haven’t, join the masses and pick it up. You’ll be rewarded with a story full of humor and heart (and to be fair, some pretty sad parts).

The Firekeeper’s Daughter

Synopsis: Following the murder of her best friend, a local teen goes undercover to help investigate the influx of drugs in her community. Throughout the book, she navigates the challenges that come with being half white and half Native.

My Take: A YA novel, The Firekeeper’s Daughter has a unique voice and point-of-view. It’s a coming of age story, steeped in Native American culture and customs. I loved following Daunis’s journey and learning more about Tribal life.

The Happy Ever After Playlist

Synopsis: Years after the death of her fiancé, Sloan Monroe is still struggling. Things start to turn around when she rescues a dog who belongs to a musician currently out of the country. Through a series of flirty texts, the two begin to get to know one another. (I think you can imagine where things go from here.)

My Take: This was my first and favorite Abby Jimenez romance novel. I thought the characters were beautifully written, and the lovestory was swoonworthy.

Northern Spy

Synopsis: When BBC producer, Tessa, discovers her sister is involved with the IRA, she becomes a double agent working for the IRA and MI5.

My Take: One of my favorite things about books is the way they can transport you to different places and times. Northern Spy offers a unique look at Northern Ireland, covering history I knew little about. Fast-paced and easy to read, I had a lot of fun with this one.