The Best Books of 2022 by Goodreads: Unveiling the Top Reads Across Genres

The year 2022 has come and gone, leaving behind a treasure trove of literary delights. But with countless books published each year, how do you find the ones that truly shine? Fear not, fellow bibliophiles, for the Goodreads Choice Awards have spoken! As millions of readers cast their votes, they've revealed the most captivating novels, thrilling mysteries, and heartwarming memoirs that captivated their hearts and minds. So, grab your favorite reading nook and get ready to embark on a journey through the best books of 2022, as chosen by the Goodreads community.

The Best Books of 2022 by Goodreads: Unveiling Genre Gems and Reader-Loved Reads

Best Fiction 2022: Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow is a stunning novel that explores the consequences of living in a world where aging has been cured. The protagonist, Leo, is a 117-year-old man who works as a historian and is bored with his immortal life. He meets Alma, a 24-year-old woman who is fascinated by the past and wants to learn from Leo. Their relationship sparks a series of events that will change their lives and the future of humanity.

This book is a brilliant blend of science fiction, romance, and social commentary. It raises important questions about the meaning of life, the value of history, and the ethics of immortality. Zevin’s writing is witty, engaging, and poignant. Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow is a book that will make you think, feel, and wonder.

Best Mystery & Thriller 2022: The Maid by Nita Prose

The Maid is a clever and charming mystery that follows Molly, a maid at a luxury hotel who discovers a dead body in one of the rooms. Molly is a shy and quiet person who loves reading mystery novels and dreams of becoming a detective. She decides to investigate the murder on her own, with the help of her friend, Tim, a hotel security guard. Along the way, she uncovers secrets, lies, and scandals that involve the hotel guests, staff, and owners.

This book is a delightful homage to the classic whodunit genre, with a twist. Molly is a refreshing and relatable heroine who uses her intuition, observation, and imagination to solve the case. Prose’s writing is witty, humorous, and suspenseful. The Maid is a book that will keep you guessing, laughing, and cheering for Molly.

Best Historical Fiction 2022: Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Carrie Soto Is Back is a captivating novel that tells the story of Carrie Soto, a legendary Hollywood actress who disappeared from the public eye in the 1960s. The book is narrated by Carrie herself, who reveals the truth about her life, career, and relationships in a series of interviews with a journalist. Carrie’s story spans from her humble beginnings in Cuba to her rise to fame in Hollywood, to her fall from grace and her comeback.

This book is a fascinating and realistic portrayal of the golden age of Hollywood, with all its glamour, drama, and scandal. Carrie is a complex and charismatic character who struggles with fame, love, and identity. Reid’s writing is immersive, vivid, and emotional. Carrie Soto Is Back is a book that will transport you to another time and place, and make you feel like you know Carrie personally.

Best Fantasy 2022: House of Sky and Breath by Sarah J. Maas

House of Sky and Breath is the second book in the Crescent City series, a thrilling and epic fantasy that follows Bryce Quinlan, a half-human, half-Fae who lives in a modern and magical city. In the first book, Bryce teamed up with Hunt Athalar, a fallen angel, to avenge the death of her best friend and save the city from a dark threat. In this book, Bryce and Hunt face new challenges and enemies, as well as secrets and revelations that will test their bond and their destiny.

This book is a stunning continuation of the Crescent City series, with more action, romance, and magic. Bryce and Hunt are a dynamic and compelling couple who grow and evolve throughout the story. Maas’s writing is immersive, vivid, and emotional. House of Sky and Breath is a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat, and leave you craving for more.

Best Romance 2022: Book Lovers by Emily Henry

Book Lovers is a sweet and funny romance that follows two rival book editors who are forced to work together on a project. Lucy is a successful and ambitious editor who loves romance novels and believes in happy endings. Oliver is a cynical and snarky editor who loves literary fiction and thinks romance is unrealistic. They have nothing in common, except their love for books and their mutual dislike for each other. But when they are assigned to co-edit a book by a famous author, they have to find a way to get along and make the book a success.

This book is a charming and witty homage to the book industry, with references to various genres, authors, and titles. Lucy and Oliver are a perfect match, with their banter, chemistry, and growth. Henry’s writing is light, humorous, and heartfelt. Book Lovers is a book that will make you smile, laugh, and swoon.

Best Science Fiction 2022: Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel

Sea of Tranquility is a mesmerizing and haunting novel that explores the themes of memory, identity, and connection in a post-apocalyptic world. The book follows several characters who are connected by a mysterious hotel called the Sea of Tranquility, which exists in multiple realities and timelines. The hotel is a refuge for some, a prison for others, and a mystery for all. As the characters navigate their lives and their choices, they discover the secrets and the power of the hotel, and how it affects their fate.

This book is a masterful and original work of science fiction, with elements of mystery, thriller, and literary fiction. The characters are diverse, complex, and intriguing, each with their own story and voice. Mandel’s writing is elegant, atmospheric, and captivating. Sea of Tranquility is a book that will make you think, feel, and wonder.

Best Horror 2022: Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak

Hidden Pictures is a terrifying and addictive horror novel that follows a group of friends who find a mysterious book in an abandoned house. The book contains a series of hidden pictures puzzles, which are images that have hidden objects within them. The friends decide to play with the book, but soon realize that the puzzles are not just harmless fun, but a deadly game. The book knows their secrets, their fears, and their desires, and uses them against them. The only way to survive is to solve the puzzles, but the puzzles are not what they seem.

This book is a brilliant and innovative twist on the horror genre, with a premise that is both original and familiar. The book is a character in itself, with a voice and a personality that is creepy and sinister. The friends are relatable and sympathetic, each with their own backstory and motivation. Rekulak’s writing is fast-paced, tense, and gripping. Hidden Pictures is a book that will keep you up at night, and make you never look at a hidden picture puzzle the same way again.

Best Humor 2022: The Office BFFs: Tales of The Office from Two Best Friends Who Were There by Jenna Fischer, Angela Kinsey

The Office BFFs is a hilarious and heartwarming memoir that shares the behind-the-scenes stories and anecdotes of the hit sitcom The Office, from the perspective of two of its stars and best friends, Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey. The book is based on their popular podcast of the same name, where they rewatch and recap every episode of the show, and reveal insider secrets, funny moments, and personal memories. The book also features interviews with other cast and crew members, photos, trivia, and fan questions.

This book is a must-read for any fan of The Office, as well as anyone who loves comedy and friendship. Jenna and Angela are delightful and genuine, with a chemistry and a humor that is infectious. Their stories are entertaining, informative, and touching, and show how much they love and appreciate the show and each other. The Office BFFs is a book that will make you laugh, cry, and reminisce.

Best Nonfiction 2022: Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience by Brené Brown

Atlas of the Heart is a powerful and insightful book that explores the emotions and experiences that shape our lives and relationships. The book is based on the research and the personal journey of Brené Brown, a renowned social scientist and bestselling author. The book identifies and defines 87 emotions and experiences, such as joy, grief, shame, courage, and empathy, and explains how they affect our connection with ourselves and others. The book also offers practical tools and strategies to cultivate and express these emotions and experiences, and to build more authentic and meaningful connections.

This book is a valuable and inspiring resource for anyone who wants to understand themselves and others better, and to live a more wholehearted and fulfilling life. Brown’s writing is clear, honest, and compassionate. Atlas of the Heart is a book that will make you learn, grow, and connect.

Best Memoir & Autobiography 2022: I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

I’m Glad My Mom Died is a memoir by Jennette McCurdy, who rose to fame as a child actress on Nickelodeon shows like iCarly and Sam & Cat. The book is based on her one-woman show of the same name, which she performed in Los Angeles and New York City. The book details her difficult and controlling relationship with her mother, who pushed her into acting and music, and who died of cancer when Jennette was 21. 

The book also covers Jennette’s struggles with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and addiction, as well as her decision to quit acting and pursue writing and directing. The book is divided into two parts: “Before” and “After”, which describe the events of her life before and after the death of her mother. The book is written with honesty, humor, and courage, and reveals the dark side of the child entertainment industry and the impact of parental abuse. The book also shows how Jennette overcame her challenges and reclaimed her life and identity. The book was published in 2022 by Simon & Schuster, and became a New York Times bestseller and a Goodreads Choice Award winner.

Best History & Biography 2022: Bad Gays: A Homosexual History by Huw Lemmey

Bad Gays: A Homosexual History is a fascinating and provocative book that explores the lives and deeds of some of the most notorious and controversial figures in history who were also gay, bisexual, or queer. The book is based on the popular podcast of the same name, hosted by Huw Lemmey, a writer and cultural critic. The book covers a wide range of topics and personalities, such as Alexander the Great, Oscar Wilde, Adolf Hitler, J. Edgar Hoover, Harvey Milk, and more. The book examines how their sexuality influenced their actions, and how their actions influenced the perception and representation of their sexuality.

This book is a challenging and enlightening work of history and biography, that questions the assumptions and stereotypes about gay people and their role in history. Lemmey’s writing is witty, insightful, and engaging. Bad Gays: A Homosexual History is a book that will make you rethink, learn, and enjoy.

Best Graphic Novels & Comics 2022: Heartstopper: Volume Four by Alice Oseman

Heartstopper: Volume Four is the fourth and final installment of the beloved graphic novel series that follows the romance between Nick and Charlie, two British teenagers who fall in love at an all-boys school. The series is written and illustrated by Alice Oseman, a young and talented author and artist. In this volume, Nick and Charlie face new challenges and opportunities, such as coming out to their families, going to college, and traveling to Paris. The volume also features bonus stories and art from Oseman and other guest artists.

This book is a beautiful and satisfying conclusion to the Heartstopper series, with more humor, drama, and cuteness. Nick and Charlie are adorable and relatable characters who grow and evolve throughout the series. Oseman’s art is simple, expressive, and colorful. Heartstopper: Volume Four is a book that will make you smile, cry, and hug.

Best Poetry 2022: Call Us What We Carry: Poems by Amanda Gorman

Call Us What We Carry: Poems is a stunning and inspiring collection of poems by Amanda Gorman, the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history and a global phenomenon. The collection features poems that address various themes and issues, such as identity, justice, hope, and change. The collection also includes the poem that Gorman recited at the presidential inauguration, “The Hill We Climb”, as well as a foreword by Oprah Winfrey, who selected the book for her book club.

This book is a powerful and moving work of poetry, that showcases Gorman’s talent, vision, and voice. Gorman’s poems are lyrical, eloquent, and impactful. Call Us What We Carry: Poems is a book that will make you feel, reflect, and act.

Best Debut Novel 2022: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

Lessons in Chemistry is a charming and witty debut novel that follows Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant and ambitious chemist who is denied a PhD position at Harvard in 1963 because of her gender. She decides to take a job as a host of a TV cooking show, where she uses her scientific knowledge and skills to create delicious and educational recipes. Along the way, she faces sexism, sabotage, and scandal, as well as romance, friendship, and fame.

This book is a delightful and empowering novel that celebrates the power of science, women, and food. Elizabeth is a smart and sassy heroine who defies the expectations and stereotypes of her time. Garmus’s writing is humorous, engaging, and informative. Lessons in Chemistry is a book that will make you hungry, curious, and happy.

Best Young Adult Fiction 2022: The Final Gambit by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

The Final Gambit is the third and final book in the Naturals series, a thrilling and addictive young adult series that follows a group of teens who have exceptional abilities that make them natural crime-solvers. The group is recruited by the FBI to help solve some of the most complex and dangerous cases. In this book, the group faces their biggest and most personal challenge yet, as they uncover a conspiracy that involves their past, their present, and their future.

This book is a stunning and satisfying finale to the Naturals series, with more action, mystery, and romance. The group is a diverse and dynamic team, who have a strong bond and chemistry. Barnes’s writing is fast-paced, suspenseful, and clever. The Final Gambit is a book that will keep you hooked, surprised, and amazed.

Best Young Adult Fantasy & Science Fiction 2022: Gallant by V.E. Schwab

Gallant is the first book in a new young adult fantasy series by V.E. Schwab, a bestselling and acclaimed author of multiple genres. The book follows Delilah Bard, a young and fearless thief who lives in a world where magic is forbidden and dangerous. She steals a mysterious artifact that grants her the power to travel between worlds, and finds herself in a parallel version of London, where magic is alive and thriving. There, she meets Kell, a powerful and mysterious magician who is the guardian of the worlds. Together, they embark on an adventure that will change their lives and the fate of the worlds.

This book is a brilliant and exciting introduction to a new series, with a rich and complex world-building, a captivating and original magic system, and a thrilling and unpredictable plot. Delilah and Kell are a fascinating and compelling pair, who have a spark and a tension that is irresistible. Schwab’s writing is immersive, vivid, and enchanting. Gallant is a book that will transport you to another world, and make you fall in love.

Best Middle Grade & Children’s 2022: I Am Quiet: A Story for the Introvert in All of Us by Andie Powers

I Am Quiet: A Story for the Introvert in All of Us is a lovely and uplifting picture book that celebrates the qualities and strengths of introverted children. The book follows a young girl who is quiet, shy, and thoughtful, and who often feels left out and misunderstood by her peers and adults. She learns to embrace her introversion, and to discover the joys and benefits of being quiet, such as listening, observing, imagining, and creating. She also learns to communicate and connect with others in her own way, and to appreciate the diversity and beauty of different personalities.

This book is a wonderful and empowering book that teaches children and adults alike to respect and value introversion, and to recognize the potential and the gifts of introverted people. The book also features beautiful and expressive illustrations by Kelly Murphy, that complement and enhance the story. I Am Quiet: A Story for the Introvert in All of Us is a book that will make you proud, happy, and inspired.

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