The first half of 2016 is already over, and I feel like I read some really great books.  Of course I’ll end up doing some grand ‘end of the year reads’ blog post, talking about the what I loved and hated that year, but I thought if I do one biyearly I could squeeze in a few extra selections that I thought were really special.

The only criteria I used when choosing was the date that I personally completed the read, so some of them were published before, some after.  All of them are noteworthy.

So here’s my top ten favorite reads, January – June 2016!

#10-Magic Stars  by Ilona Andrews

Why I loved it:
Simple, half Julie and half Derek.  One raised by Kate and Curran, one forged by tragedy and pain.  Best friends… and maybe more…
Let’s just say, I think I’m going to get exactly what I wanted!
Review

#9- Love Lessons by Heidi Cullinan

Why I loved it:
There was just something really sweet and tender between Walter and Kelly.  In particular there was something I really loved about Walter.  I have a soft spot for alpha men who struggle inside.
Review

#8- Violent Ends by multiple YA Authors

Why I loved it:
The story was compelling, but I think the real magic was in how so many different authors contributed to the story.  With so many different points of view it really helped that each one was told by a different person.  Plus, we got a really well rounded vision of the shooter.
Review

#7- Cream of the Crop by Alice Clayton

Why I loved it:
Honestly, what it all boils down to is humor.  This book was so funny, and Natalie was a really personable realistic person.  I loved her.  Alice Clayton really writes amazing romance novels.
Review

#6- In the Eye of the Storm by Robert Thier

Why I loved it:
In my history of reading I’ve read a lot of historical romances and historical fiction.  After a while it all just runs together.  This book brings a new fresh perspective, with a comedic heroine and a sexy brooding hero.  Indie author, spectacular read.
Review

#5- The Raven King by Maggie Stiefvater

Why I loved it:
The entire Raven Cycle series is beautiful.  So full of magic.  Her writing style is poetic, and the books aren’t fast paced but they hook you in anyway.  This final book may have received some criticism, but I thought it was perfect.
Review

#4- Rack & Ruin by Charlie Cochet

Why I loved it:
Dex and Sloane!  I feel like there shouldn’t be any need to say more.  Honestly, I could just shout DEX and even that would be enough.  If you need more, then the whole cast of characters, every member of Destructive Delta helps make this series everything it is.
Review

#3- Us by Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen

Why I loved it:
Mostly I loved it because it’s Wes and Jamie.  There’s no secret that Him, the first book in the duology, is probably one of my favorite romances ever.  Us picks up immediately after and shows the struggle of a new relationship.  This one even made me cry.  These two are electric.
Review

#2- Morning Star by Pierce Brown

Why I loved it:
The Red Rising trilogy is the best dystopian sci-fi series.  The conclusion closed out the series beautifully, but finding out there would be another trilogy to follow made everything even better.
Review

#1- Kings Rising by CS Pacat

Why I loved it:
Kings Rising was my most anticipated book of 2016, and upon finishing I knew that it was incomparable.  I know it’s only been six months, but it’s still holding strong at #1.  Laurent & Damen are the most incredible characters I’ve read since Jamie and Claire.
Review