It’s that time again!! Time to re-hash my *squee-worthy* favorites and punish myself by choosing only twenty five out of 144 books that I completed in 2012 (with an actual 162 total on the list). And as FUN as it is to reminisce and choose my favorites, it is… in way… punishment, ’cause it’s so hard to choose just 25, and even harder to order them. ACK!! How to decide!!?? Okay well, you know me. You totally know I’m gonna cheat a bit. 😉 Tee hee!! Hey, what? Some books, no matter how different they are… I love them equally. It just can’t be helped, and I’m going with it!
So here we go. These are the books that either rocked my world right on the spot, and/or or stayed with me for days/weeks.
Sidenote: Okay and now that I’ve finished my list, I can say, there isn’t really a favorites “order” to any of these. I kept switching ’em around, backtracking, trying to find my perfect order, but I love so many of ’em equally that I think I ordered them more by “genre” relevance, than anything else. Just know that these are my favorites for 2012, and I think that’s good enough. 🙂
And yes, I totally cheated. I think there are 32 books listed. Er… and that’s if you don’t count the actual books in a few of the “series” that I listed, as a whole. *giggle* What can I say? This was an awesome reading year. Oh and you’ll notice there’s an overall key word “theme” to my book preferences. The words intense, steamy, angsty, tortured and emotional show up again and again. Ah well. It is what it is. 😉 Apparently I really like it when books rip my heart out. That’s my favorite! I’m such a sucker for punishment. LOL!
ALSO NOTE: The first four books listed below (and their respective installments) are essentially … in my #1 spot. I can’t choose. They all made me cry, sigh, and high on life as I read ’em. Shocking and pivotal moments, intense romance, and endings that had me physically reacting (whether it be smiling like a fool until my cheeks hurt, sobbing & shaking, or both). These are in a class of their own. For me… absolute shout-them-from-the-rooftop perfection.
The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay
FANTASTIC READ!! So deep and introspective, so tentative and gentle in it’s romantic growth. Intense, but delicately so. Two gorgeous souls that have learned to cope with their depressing pasts, but are practically hurting themselves in the process. Until they meet each other and develop one of the most honest and pure friendships I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. But as with all broken souls, the inevitable push-pull torments them, as they try to stick to their original plan, and in the process, torments us. BEA-U-TI-FUL!!! PERFECT! LOVED!! Check out my review!
Slammed by Colleen Hoover (and book #2: Point of Retreat)
This one had me swooning from the start but then it sucker-punched me in the most delightful way, right when I wasn’t expecting it. I. WAS. HOOKED!!! I can’t think of a more perfect mini-romance build-up and OH NO moment, and 
when it hit I was floored. And THRILLED!! And then the story built perfectly, slowly, believably and it became so much more than an angsty love story. It was about family, connections, love and growth… and I sobbed my eyes out. Heartwarming perfection, and a forever favorite. Check out my reviews: Slammed and Point of Retreat
The Edge of Never by J.A. Redmerski
This was a wonderful, last minute TBR shift (and for no particular reason cause nobody had recommended it to me yet, other than a fellow reader just letting me know it had just been released and was on super sale). But for some reason, it… was calling to me. I downloaded the sample, shrugged and thought… hrmm. Not bad. I could take it or leave it, but I think I’m in the mood to see how this plays out, and so I bought it. It was a rainy gloomy day, and I just settled in with it. And it absolutely FLOORED me. It didn’t take long from just a bit past the sample point for me to connect and be happy with my reading choice, and it didn’t take long after that for me to know I was in love. And then… my whole world was flipped upside down, and I will venture to say that I have never had such a brutal physical reaction after a read, in my life. Oh sure, I’ve fallen head-over-heels in “love” over some book heroes, all foggy-headed for days (and still, LOVE them with my entire book-heart ;)). But this one? I fell in LOVE with it as a whole. Everything about it was just so HUGE to me, and I just… I can’t explain it in words, but if I could let you into my fond memories of this book, you’d understand where I’m coming from. Better yet. Read it yourself and let it take you away. Whatever you do… DO NOT stop reading. If you need a break, take it (you’ll see why I say this). But keep going. And embrace that physical reaction. It is one you’ll never forget. Check out my review.
Experiment in Terror Series by Karina Halle
I’m featuring the latest book in the series here, because it was a 5 star plus for me, but the entire series is my favorite series of the year, and one of my favorite series EVER. Admittedly the books get better and better as they go (#1 and even #2 were good for me), but by #3 I was so deeply entrenched and crushing on Dex SO HARD and by #6, er… no. By #4 I was in LOVE… *swoooooon*. But not ’cause he’s your typical “book-hunk”. He’s not that kind of hero. Obnoxious, cocky, unapologetic and OMG sometimes just soooo UGH!!! But… in all of his imperfection, he’s just PERFECT. But wait… this is not all about Dex. Admittedly, so many of us Experiment in Terror die-hards (and there are tons of us) are Dex-centric, but Perry rocks, too! Every one of us can relate to her, feel for her, feel her… we are her. And with all of the awesome Dex-Perry tension and angst, this one has some of that fear-factor, too. ‘Cause they have a “ghost-hunting” internet show on Youtube that is picking up speed, and in each installment, we investigate a new “paranormal” phenomenon. FAN-TASTIC!!! Check out my reviews and everything else I’ve written about this series, here.
Bared to You: A Crossfire Novel by Sylvia Day
My absolute guilty pleasure that indulged my need for that new “Fifty genre”. And I’m not talking about the “darker” side of erotica. I know that’s been the focus for many of the recent “What to Read After Fifty Shades” lists (and many of those are great!), but THIS to me, epitomizes that “feeling” I had when I read Fifty Shades. More than just spanks, straps, and sex. This was about that magnanimous wealthy, seemingly 
perfect man, that could have everything he wanted, and yet, all he wanted was her. Breaking down all his previous barriers to get to her. But he’s broken, and so the emotion, heartache, misunderstandings and incredible desire become the focus of these novels. And in this one… she’s broken, too. Ohhh the insecurities and jealous spats. *squee* so fun! It gave me my Fifty fix… but… who’s gonna be my Gideon fix? Check out my review.
On Dublin Street by Samantha Young
On the lighter side of the “wealthy alpha male” scale, Braden will make you swoon, too. In fact, he just maybe… the most perfect of ’em all in this genre. Sweet, funny, sexy, possessive. Perfect. And where he doesn’t seem to be as troubled by his past (as our other favorite billionaire heroes) his love interest is. And he just may be her perfect match. If only she’ll let him. Let the angst and heartache begin! Check out my review.
Fallen Too Far by Abbi Glines
My most recent BIG GUILTY PLEASURE that made me absolutely loopy in love (and angst) by the end. So loopy that I reviewed it in my Cookie Monster pajamas and moaned about my “Rush-crush” and how I didn’t think I could go one without more just like it. And then y’all moaned and cried with me, and everything was right with the world. After all, we only have… what? Two? Three months to wait? Ohhhhh nooooo that is SO far away. GAH!!! I’m moaning again. *sigh* Er… and *blush* to be honest, I’m always reviewing in pajamas. Tonight it’s “Hello Kitty”. *smirk* 😉 Check out my review.
Hopeless by Colleen Hoover
Another recent stroke of Colleen Hoover writing genius! Incredibly emotional, intense, and steamy, but first, you’re going to torment yourself with trying to figure it all out. Tortured brooding hero, disconnected girl with bad dreams. New school, new friends… new revelations. There are some serious twists in this one, and I almost had it, but she still managed to surprise me in the end. And what an end it was!! Check out my book review.
Easy by Tammara Webber
Another fun “new adult” book with a special twist and even better, a sexy reclusive “bad-boy” that saves the day (and I mean… a true hero). But he has… a secret. Or two. And there was nothing better than trying to figure him out, and worry about losing him in the process. A wonderful story with a touch of that “forbidden” love aspect, and I couldn’t get enough of Lucas. He’s perfect for me. I mean her. Her. 😉 Loved this one! Check out my review.
Losing It by Cora Carmack
THIS ONE totally hooked me. I was so addicted ’cause again… it had that delicious forbidden love aspect. Teacher/student (in college, so that’s okay. Er… well… I mean in “my world” LOL!). But you know. They are just so into each other and doing their best to stay away… or to keep it on the down low. And I loved the torture! I want more like this!! The quality of the writing, the funny/sweet/realistic story – everything was just… perfect for me. Check out my review.
Ten Tiny Breaths by K.A. Tucker
Another “new adult” read that was right up my alley. Sort of had that Sea of Tranquility and Edge of Never feel to it. You know… that moody, “running away from your past, and being very selective with your future” feel. Finding yourself in a brand new “home” and making a brand new family in an apartment complex full of misfits. Maybe even falling in love… but. What is HE hiding? Beware of twists!! Oh what am I saying? Those are the BEST part!!! This one has ’em. So good!! Check out my review.
Leave Me Breathless (Leather and Lace) by Cherrie Lynn
One of my most favorite bad boys of the year! Ghost was right up there with his best friend, Brian, for me. Well… close. Ohhhhh SO close. Brian made my list last year (and is one of my forever favorites), and I’m so happy his partner in crime (er… well… tattoos) made this one. Where, last year, I found Ghost to be crass and obnoxious, his book proved that he is so much more than his attitude. Gorgeous and tough, yet so very very sweet. Everything we love about our bad-boys (the way he speaks, his reactions, his cocky swagger, his past, his FTW attitude) but especially his personal growth. His journey that made him the amazing person he is today. *sigh* Check out my review.
The Mighty Storm by Samantha Towle
This year’s ultimate rock star read!! It had everything I look for in my rock stars. Super famous, super gorgeous, super talented and super bad boy. Tattooed (just had to throw that in there ;)). Overflowing with groupies and fans, and yet… there’s that one girl that just might have his heart. Easy right? Heck no!! How would you like watching one of the most famous frontmen in the industry surrounded by gorgeous woman? How would you like to watch him maybe… indulge…? Why’s he still indulging in other women if he wants you? ‘Cause YOU, my dear, already have a boyfriend… at home. Just sayin’. This one’s FUN! Angsty, steamy, angsty, sad (I cried), steamy and then a few WTF moments thrown in for good measure! Check out my review.
Love Unrehearsed: The Love Series, Book 2 by Tina Reber
Let’s go with one more uber-famous guy in love with the normal (yet gorgeous) girl. This is everyone’s ultimate fantasy and the author’s highly anticipated sequel, full-on indulged us in their whirlwind romance. But we like our fantasies turbulent, don’t we? We want to read about our “dream-man” and how much better can it get than a hunky A-list actor? But we also thrill a bit when turmoil and insecurities get in the way. That’s something we can relate to. Who out of us could date a famous actor and not get caught up in the highs and lows of the industry? And worse yet, struggle with his “intimate scenes” and leading ladies. Whoa! That scene, and the aftermath, was one of my all time favorite scenes ever. So good!! Check out my review.
Motorcycle Man (Dream Man) by Kristen Ashley
This one sent me on a frenzied search for more biker club books. We had a good dose of it with her character (and my beloved) “Tate” (from the author’s Colorado Mountain series) and I was hooked. I had never heard the expression “back of my bike” let alone knew what it meant to be on the “back of his bike” but after this one, I knew I was a “literary biker chick”. Tee hee! Tack is swoon-worthy and I know he’d probably eyeroll and say a choice word or two at my reaction. Which would only make me love him more. *grin* Can’t wait for more “Chaos”! Check out my review.
Undeniable by Madeline Sheehan
And while I’m on a motorcycle kick, I HAD to point out this book. It prompted me in making a full-on biker romance reads list. I had to have more like it. Where Tack (above) and his motley biker crew are pure bad boys with “good guy” hearts, these guys are 100% bad-boy (doing mostly bad stuff) with a few moments of good. The author holds no punches, in fact, there are some extremely cringe-worthy scenes. What you see on Sons of Anarchy, you’ll read (and visualize) in this. A tawdry, oft offensive, over-the-top biker drama but still oh sooooo addictive. So fun to read, and I delighted in my appalled reactions. Bring on more of your bad boys, Madeline! Definitely a guilty pleasure. Check out my review.
The Lux Series by Jennifer Armentrout
Another favorite series (and it’s paranormal!!) that has me as addicted, as I was back in the day when I was reading strictly that genre. I thought I was sort of… “burned out” on paranormal, but apparently not, ’cause I’m devouring each installment and loving them equally. So I’m not just listing one book as a favorite, I’m listing the entire series. Didn’t think you could fall for aliens? Think again. Aliens… but OH SO us. So gorgeous, so sexy, so moody, so alpha… and so infuriating. I heart Daemon! And he doesn’t heart us back. LOL!!! Well… you’ll see. 😉 Check out my review of book #1
The Bronze Horseman with Bonus Material by Paullina Simmons
An amazing tale of love, heartbreak and unbelievably dire circumstances, that will have you absolutely suffering with the heroine. This love story is so BIG… so EPIC, that you’ll wonder how you managed to make it out alive, in the end. But let me tell you, every sweet detail, every longing look, every selfish moment, and even more… every self-sacrificing act will have you so deeply entrenched, so personally invested that you’ll be thinking about this book… forever. Oh and, luckily, it’s not over after this one. There are TWO more in this series. Don’t let the “historical” aspect scare you away. Do yourself a favor and lose yourself in these characters. You’ll fall so deeply in love (and become so unbelievable incensed) with Alexander (an amazing protector, that occasionally let’s his alpha side get the best of him). So moving! Check out my book review.
Broken by Megan Hart
So deep and thought provoking. Incredibly romantic, but moody, too. Pining, aching, heartbreaking… shocking. It made me gasp, and made me cry tears of true heartbreak. And through it all… my heart wanted. This author knows how to make her readers feel, and experience every moment of elation and pain with her characters. And that’s exactly what I’m looking for in a read. Check out my review.
Sempre (Forever) by J.M. Darhower
What a thrill ride this was! A mafia boss that takes in a modern-day slave into his home. “Saves” her from her horrid conditions, sure, but you start realizing she might not be so safe after all. And while his sons (mafia princes) are living a very extravagant and indulgent life, this slave girl can’t quite connect. Until one of the sons takes a very personal interest in her. Let the crazy begin, as revelations and heartbreaking situations snowball. In the mood for a few adrenaline spikes? This’ll help. 😉 Check out my review.
Captive in the Dark (The Dark Duet: Book 1) by CJ Roberts
Both books in this “duet” took me out of my comfort zone, and then turned around and stomped my comfort zone into the ground, just to make sure I didn’t retreat back into it to hide. NICE!! I had nowhere to go but forward with this one. But don’t let me fool you. I loved every moment of it (and was appalled at myself for it). I LOVE an addictive, crazy, unconventional love story, and this is it. 
Although “love story” is stretching it, a bit. A lot. Tee hee! This epitomizes guilty pleasure, because there is NO logical reason why we should “feel” for the bad guy, yet the author’s writing is such that… well. *smirk* Some of us do. We don’t wanna, but we can’t help it. Stockholm Syndrome? Meh.. maybe. But I’d rather call it entertainment, and since I do enjoy my adrenaline rushes, this one did the trick! Oh and book #2 (Seduced in the Dark (The Dark Duet: Book 2)… that one did the trick, too! Check out my reviews: Captive in the Dark and Seduced in the Dark
Stolen by Lucy Christopher
This one freaked me out!! Tame in comparison to a few of our darker “kidnap reads” but this one had all of the elements and mental anguish, just… not as much “detail”. And you’ll find yourself falling for the bad guy and wracking your brain as to why you are succumbing to Stockholm syndrome. And then… the ending. Whoa!!! I love to “mix it up” a bit and this one did it. A shocking, unforgettable, totally unconventional read, and I LOVED it. Check out my review.
Taken (Give and Take)
One more to add to my “scary thrill” section, but I’ve got to say, this one’s the most romantic out of the Stockholm Syndrome bunch. It’s a touch “Fifty/Gideon” (’cause he’s a gorgeous unattainable wealthy billionaire who won’t take no for an answer) and a touch “Stolen” ’cause he “takes her” for love. Or… “obsession”. 😉 Tomato, to-mah-to… *shrug* (tee hee!!) I know… I know… there’s a big and very important difference between love and obsession, but this is fiction and every once in awhile, I want a romance read with a side of crazy. Just go with it. 🙂
The Opportunist (Love Me With Lies #1) by Tarryn Fisher
A delightfully obnoxious love story. Deceit, cheating, manipulation it abounds, all in the name of love. And there’s PLENTY of that, but there is no rest for the wicked, and it’s up to us to figure out just who the good guys & bad guys (of love) are in this one. Amazing writing, incredible attention to emotional detail. We really get into the character’s heads. 
You’ll fall so deeply in love, you’ll hope, you’ll be elated and then… maybe… You’ll have your heart crushed in the process. Or maybe not. Depends on what you wanted to happen. And no worries… there’s still one more installment to go. 😉 Check out my book reviews: The Opportunist and Dirty Red.
Painted Faces by L.H. Cosway
This one was my last official read of 2012, and boy did it have impact! Another of those pleasant surprises that may not have been my usual read, but was totally for me anyway. Unconventional, and yet so relatable. Sometimes somber, mostly funny… a tormented soul both looking to connect and doing his best to avoid connections. Struggling with his desires and his fears, and hiding behind his painted faces. But he can’t help connecting to the heroine and the friendship that ensues stole my heart. Stole hers, too. And that’s the problem. Cue my favorite part… the angst. This one is loaded in it, but it’s done perfectly. PERFECTLY! And I felt every moment of it. Check out my review.
Sheltered by Charlotte Stein
This was another one of those darker, somber reads that took my breath away. As two very opposite people come together, I experienced every moment of their intensity. I dunno what it is exactly that had me connecting as hard as I did. It could be the writing (loved it!), could be the dark cloud hovering over them and the fear that they could get caught… the forbidden aspect. Her inexperience, his super bad-boy persona. But there was something about their very intimate moments together that was magic. Even when they were just… talking. There was just something about this one that had me gasping lightly, dare I say panting, both in romantic anticipation and dread. Check out my review.
Bone Deep by Bonnie Dee
Another deep, somber unconventional love story that seemed to weave some kind of magic on me. I fell so deep and couldn’t stop thinking about this sweet gorgeous tale. A historical romance about a tattooed (from head to toe) male that escapes a traveling sideshow and is aided by a pretty small-town widow. His appearance ensures that he would be spurned by society, so she hides him in her home, and as they become friends and learn to trust each other, the intensity builds. Not my usual “fluffy romance” fun, but incredible romance nonetheless. Check out my review.
Happy Hour (Racing on the Edge) by Shey Stahl
I have never read a “sports star” romance novel as of yet, until I read this one. And even though the hero is a Nascar race car driver, I think it still counts. I mean, he’s kind of a superhero when you think about it. What he’s controlling, and the danger he faces each time he races. He’s a rock star in a race car. And he wins. Oh boy does he win. Especially my heart. Jameson rocked my world. Fame, fortune, bad-boy temper tantrums and best of all… LOVE!! But there’s angst before we get it, and that just made getting there all that much sweeter. Probably one of the steamiest, sexiest, most “guy-guys” I’ve read in a long time, and I get to indulge in him for 3 more books! Who knows what I’m in for next? Eeeeeep! I’m so excited Check out my review.
Defying the Odds (Battered Hearts)
Oooooh!! I need to add another one! ACK! I HEART this hero so bad. He’s a UFC fighter, and at the top of his class. And he’s brooding. *sigh* Hulking, powerful, quiet and moody. He’s no-nonsense. The best at what he does, and what a protector. AND!! He doesn’t like pumpkin pie, but if you give him a slice, he’ll eat it anyway, ’cause he’s sweet like that. Awwwwww!!! No but really, you just don’t understand how into him I was, while reading this. Still am, now that I think about it. Kind of like an older, calmer, moodier Travis. Check out my review.
Wallbanger by Alice Clayton
A very recent sweet delight, that was 100% light and fluffy, and laugh out loud funny. Sometimes, I just want to laugh, while swooning and this provided the perfect dose of both. Her seemingly promiscuous gorgeous neighbor keeps her up at night, and while at first they struggle to co-exist, they eventually become friends, and then find themselves struggling with “other” things. Laughs, tons of steam, sugar sweet “normal” moments and throw in some good ol’ angst for the perfect book recipe! Yum! Check out my review.
Perfection (A Neighbor From Hell) by R.L. Mathewson
These were a delightful surprise, and are a perfect blend of funny and romance. I loved how badly the characters 
irritated each other, I loved their banter, and how consistently annoying (and sweet) the guys were. There was no “smooth” and “suave” here (okay maybe a little). These guys may be hot, but they’re absolute brats and make no apologies for their “very guy” ways. They’ll get under your skin before they worm there way into you heart, but it’s a blast in the process! Check out my reviews: Playing for Keeps and Perfection (A Neighbor from Hell)
Seduction and Snacks (Chocolate Lovers #1) by Tara Sivec
Ohhhh more comedy romance that had me laughing out loud and excitedly re-reading so many parts to my husband thinking that he’d totally find it funny too. Yah… well… while this is obviously hilarious, apparently the whole “I guess you had to be there” pertains to reading, too. ‘Cause he’d just stare back at me while I snorted. *sigh* Ah well, I promise you’ll get it. 😉 Need something awesome and funny and romantic? This is the one! Check out my review.
Love, love, love this list ❤Almost all my favorites are on here too. Thanks to you and your blog and all our reader friends for sharing their book finds. It has been a spectacular 2012 reading year!
Great work. Thank you sooooooo much for your fabulous recommendations all year long. You open my world to books I would never have found on my own and then your followers add more. I need to quit my job in order to make a dent in my TBR list.
You will continue to be my day-maker into 2013 and beyond. Squeeeeeeeeee.
Happy New Year to all. I wish you and all you followers the very best that 2013 has to offer 🙂
I’ve read and loved most of them, thanks to you Maryse!!! I can’t think of my reading life before I found your blog… It was such a torture to decide what to read next, what to get, be disappointed with half of my choices… *Sigh*
My life after Maryse is much easier: I just check your blog, see what you’re reading, and never be disappointed… YAY!!! So easy!!! 🙂
2012 was my best reading year EVER, I’ve broken my record (115 books – wow!!!), I’ve read unconventional subjects, I’ve read “stuff” (*grin*) that I would never have read otherwise, and all that thanks to you Maryse!!! So, THANK YOU!!! Have I said thank you yet?? 🙂
Oohh girl, my only wish for 2013 is to be able to keep up with you! Love ya!
Perfect List!!!
I read 181 books in 2012 thanks to Maryse for making my selections so much easier. She is my “go to girl” everyday. THANKS MARYSE!
Awesome list! Every book you love and recommend I end up loving!
I was so excited to see Happy Hour make the list. A BIG shoutout to Shey Stahl. I read the first four books back to back. I could not put them down. Then I had to wait for The Legend. It was so worth the wait. The Racing on the Edge series by Shey Stahl is my FAV series of 2012 and one of my top five series EVER. It might even be my FAVORITE ever. All I can say is there were many facets to the books, but the common thread through all the books was the HUGE love Jameson and Sway have for each other. It is epic.
So thank you again, Maryse, for finding these books that touch our hearts and won’t let us go.
Love your list Maryse! I read several of the books on your list and one is on my TBR list. If I had to choose my favorites, it would be hard because I loved so many of them I recently read Fallen Too Far and The Edge Of Never. O.M.G. the last few chapters of The Edge Of Never I couldn’t breathe and I cried like a baby I couldn’t see straight, lol. I can’t wait to read book 2 Never Too Far. The first book had me in tears too.
Thanks for sharing your love of books with us! Best wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year!
Linda
Suze, I agree. Just finished “Legend” and absolutely loved the whole series. Shey Stahl ROCKS!!!
Thank you SO much for all of your support Maryse! You are amazing! This is an incredible list! I’m honored! <3
Yup. Just printed this list and I heading to Barnes and Noble to get as many as my wallet will allow 🙂
Katja Millay, you ROCK too!!! 🙂 The Sea of Tranquility is wonderful!!! 🙂
Maryse, thanks for all the great recommendations, you are our Blog Goddess!!! 🙂
Thank you for blogging! I have read so many great books only because I saw them here. You make me laugh everyday when I read your page.
I agree with so much of the sentiment here.. I got introduced to PNR this year thanks to JR Ward, Lara Adrian and so many others.. I have devoured these books and so appreciate you providing reviews and recommendations.. thanks so much..
And – Happy New Year to you and all of those you hold dear.. and, to my co-readers that come here? HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
I love love love these books. Thanks to your blog I have read most of these and loved them and thanks to this list I have added a few more to my TBR list. I am currently reading 10 Tiny Breaths and will start Hopeless after it 🙂 Happy New Year everyone!!!!
God! I know! It’s so hard to choose. These days I was trying to choose which book out of my 125 are my favorites and I made my top 20 too. And I think a lot of them made your list too. And I think I’m like you, I like to suffer. I’m masochist I think.
My top 10:
The Opportunist
Kathleen Turner Series
Fifty Shades Freed
Bared to You
Into the Hollow
Stolen
The Edge of Never
Premonition Series
Butterfly Weeds
The Mighty Storm
Thanks for posting this Maryse!!! I have read 50% of the ones on your list (thanks to you) and loved most of them. But I have some work to do. Can’t WAIT!!! Cheers & Happy New Year to you all!
Your list was awesome the only ones I would of added would of been the Kathleen Turner series and Taking Chances by Molly Mcadams.
Thank you so much for all the wonderful recommendations. My reading life wouldn’t be the same without you. There’s a few of your favorites that I missed in 2012, so they’re on top for ’13. Wishing you a blessed new year!
I am so happy to see so many of my favorites on this list (most found from you!!) and several more that I now have to add to my list to read for next year!!!
Mucho Better! Can’t have a ‘best of” without Braden *swoons* 😉
LOL!! I know… I’m shocked and appalled at myself for that. I mean, it’s a HUGE book for me. *sigh*
hehe 😉
ohhhh and HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone!!!!
I’m doing a special Happy New Year post tonight. 😀
Happy, Happy New Year to you, Sweets *hugs* and *kisses*
Thank-you for all that you have done for us needy 13,000 plus fans.
I heart you soooo much!
Looking forward to a WONDERFUL 2013!!!! Yippee 🙂
Loved reading this list whilst mentally ticking off the ones i have read the racing on amazon to buy the ones i have not 🙂 last year i always said ‘why read the book when you can watch the film’ how wrong i was and thank you maryse for getting me addicted to reading happy new year x
Happy New Year to you Maryse and I am looking so forward to 2013 and what books you find for us to read. I have read about 3/4 of your list and I can honestly say that they were ALL your recommendations and I loved every one of them. I am so very glad that I found your blog a year and a half….maybe two years ago (too long ago to remember)!! I really think my favorite this year was Wallbanger. It was such a fun read and and it was nice to just laugh out loud at some good ol sexy steamy love situations. The main characters and the secondary characters fit SO perfect with each other. Yeah for reading!!!!!!
I’m with you and the Braden Lise! 🙂 Happy New Year everyone.
I read a whopping 22 from your top list
I started reading in May so my list ends with 137
I need to go back through your list and read what i havent..thanks for this list and your blog and your FB page!!
Happy New Year to you and everyone!!!!
I just went through my list…i have 33 out of my 137 that would be in my top list..heheheheh
WOW–love your list…it is so similar to mine. And it looks like I’ll be checking out a few more books to add to my TBR pile.
Have a safe and happy New Year!
New follower.
Thank you for your top 25 list! The book club has read just over 1/2 of them so our goal is to complete your list!! Book club favorites from your list are:
Sea of Tranquility
The Edge of Never
Slammed / Point of Retreat
Hopeless
Ten Tiny Breaths
Sempre Forever (can’t wait for book #2)!!
Wallbanger…..so funny!!!
Seduction and Snacks
Happy New Year!!!
Ok so I am a little shocked at myself that I have kept up with you thus far. Out of your list there are 11 books I have not read and 4 of them are on my kindle waiting to be read and then 1 that is so far out of my comfort zone I just can’t read it. I am drawn to the books that you suggest mainly because they are just so out of this world. You have wonderful eye (I guess) for books and I’m so happy I started following you. I have read a total of 575 this year and I can tell you there is 1 or 2 of the books in your list I don’t agree with but the majority is awesome and 5 star worthy in my humble opinion.
Thank you!!! Keep up the incredible job who have done this year into the next please because it has brought me many surreal books to read.
Oh I meant the I guess for what you would describe the books you have chosen to read.
Have a happy new year!!!
I’ve read many from your favorites list. Edge of Never, Ten Tiny Breaths, Fallen Too Far, On Dublin Street and Mighty Storm were all recommendations from you that I LOVED!
This Man by Jodi Ellen Malpis and Disastrous by EL Montes were two of my favorites that you haven’t reviewed yet!
I think Bared to You and Reflected in You are my all time favorites!
I love your list!! There’s nine I still have to read off of your list.
Thanks so much for your wonderful blog!! Found it towards the end of May and check it at least once a day 🙂
Happy New Year!! Look forward to your recommendations in 2013!!
OH MY GOODNESS! Seeing my books in your top 25 for the entire year is one of the best ways to end this year that I can think of. It all started with you, Maryse. <3 you!!!
Colleen Hoover, Thank you for joining us on our New Years Eve blogathon. Congratulations too!!! Just checked Amazon and am so proud for you that “Hopeless” IS NUMBER ONE ON PAID KINDLE!!!! You are an awesome writer and I LOOVE your books!!!! 🙂
YES SHE IS!! #1 on Amazon and has been since yesterday. Beyond awesome and what a way to end a year, Colleen. *hug*
I am so thrilled for you!! I heart you back!
Oh and… I cheated again. Tee hee!! I added another favorite on the list. How could I forget my beloved UFC fighter!? No not Travis… but kind of like an older version of him. 😉
Weeeeee! There’s a few on this list I haven’t read. Looks like I have some good books to ring in the New Year with.
I’m so excited! Alot of your favorites I have on my reader already! Yay! I wish I was a speed reader!
I am glad you added “leave me breathless” to the list, it was one of my top favorites.! Ghost was awesome!!! 🙂
I was so happy to see the UFC fighter from Defying the Odds by Kele Moon, but you can’t have one without the other……..who does not LOVE Romeo Wellings from Star-Crossed, Book Two in the Battered Hearts Series by Kele Moon. They are both swoon worthy. Another fantastic series this year. And I found this one all thanks to you, Maryse. I would have never known the fabulousness of these characters without you. Can’t wait for books 3 through 6.
Ohhh, I havn’t read “Defying the Odds” yet. Sounds great!!!
I’m spending New Years Eve here at home with my family and our wonderful reading blog created by our beloved Maryse!!!
Happy New Year Maryse and everyone!!! Just know we are going to have a fantastic 2013 reading with Maryse!!! 🙂 🙂 🙂
Dee Dee, I’m right there with you. I finished “Legend” by Shey Stahl last night and started on “Undeniable” by Madeline Sheehan today, because it’s on the list. There are 11 books on the list I need to read ASAP!!! And soooo looking forward to each and every one of them!!! 🙂 🙂
Happy New Year Maryse, what a great year for books!! Well i am embarrassed to admit that I stopped counting the books I read at 400 this year. I still had a couple more months of books to count but I did not want to look to deep at my vice. Thank God I am an incredibly fast reader and of course I read alot of crappy books as well. Most of my favorites were on your list and glad to see some I havent read (bronze horseman and the Stahl books. Ill start those soon!! There are 2 on my list that I just loved that would definetly be on my top 25 list
Fallen Crest High by Tijan- so completely messed up, I loved it!
and a book called Evelyn Vine be mine- found for free on her website chellemitchiter.webs.com- a silent huge alpha drummer, so good!
Cant wait to see the great books 2013 has to offer!
I just finished Fallen Too Far. I don’t really get the attraction to Rush. Maybe he will grow on me. Loved the book though.
Thanks for all of your recommendations. I didn’t discover you until Easter when I got my Kobo. I’ve read over 100 books since then, many of which were recommended by you. Your reviews even show me which books you love that I know would not float my boat. Thanks. I look forward to lots of recommendations in 2013.
Happy New Year Maryse to you and the wonderful contributors to your blog! Special mention to your understanding hubby for sharing you with us!
I think I want to thank you for your list…..feeling quite smug initially, kidding myself that I had kept up with your awesome recommendations BUT grabbed a notepad just incase I needed to jot down some books I missed. There’s 19 books / series, some waiting on my iPad but may have to do some shopping 😉
Absolutely love visiting your blog because what you have to say makes me squeeeel, smirk then hit that one click bar and lose myself into another great story.
Cheers Suzanne 🙂
Kimberly B, I bow to your feet. I wish I could read as fast as you, that is amazing. Over 400 books this past year!! **Swoon**
Love your list and there are some I hadn’t heard about before that will be added to my TBR pile! Now that I’m out of nursing school, hopefully I’ll have more time to read for fun!
Love your blog!
I have read 15 of your 25…hmm, I wonder where I got on these great book recommendations from….I know from YOU!!
So many of my favorites were on that list, and there are a few I am now adding to this year’s TBR list. I think I should just devote my entire day to reading – the heck with the family and cleaning stuff!!
Thank you! I have a few more on my TBR list now (my list seems to grow exponentially each time I read your blog). Add a couple more to your list…Gabriel’s Inferno and Gabriel’s Rapture. 🙂 Happy new year!
Happy New Year Maryse and thanks for this amazing list!! I’m going to use it to check off what books I need to add to my TBR list! 🙂
thanks for the amazing list i have read about half on there thanks to you and your blog, and to think i only found you by accident, i dont know where i,d be without your help.. please please keep up your recommendation. happy new year to you.!!!!!!
Maryse- I just started reading again for fun this year now that my children are older. I love your blog and your recommendations. There isn’t a book you’ve rated high that I haven’t absolutely loved. I’m just finishing The Legend and can’t wait to read the few books on your list that I must have missed some how. Happy New Year!
Okay I know I’m behind because my top 25 this year includes JR Ward’s BDB series and I’m catching up on my paranormal series as well so Lothaire is in my list as this book introduced me to Kresley Cole. But thanks to your Blog for introducing me to so many books I would have never have read.
Glad to see the top 25 list! Slightly surprised/delighted that I’ve read most of the top 25!!! I will agree that the Neighbour from Hell Series is amazing. It’s definitely one of my top favourite series. It’s a very funny/cute light reading series. I read the trilogy in less than 48 hours. AmaZING!
Thank you so much, Maryse, for including THE EDGE OF NEVER. *hugs* 🙂
I love this list! I’ve read 23 of those books. Ten Tiny Breaths, Losing it and Fallen too Far are my favorites!!
I read this book because of your review and I absolutely fell in love with it. It is one of the funniest books I have read in a long time and to say I am angst out and on edge waiting for sequels is putting it mildly, so this book was perfect. Thank you for all your wonderful reviews, I have found so many good books from your suggestions and numerous crushes : )
Happy New Year! Love your website! I look at it everyday! One of my favorite all time reads is Beautiful Disaster. Travis Maddox is my favorite character as well! Looking forward to reading more from you and a big Thank you once again for your websit, it is priceless!!!
Loved the list! Most are same as me..but…and HUGE but here Maryse (since YOU introduced me to that series), where’s THOR (BDB) book?? Lol…that series will always be my fave…how could we NOT have it here?
*pouts*…
Thanks for this list..as always, your blog is THE BEST!
I found your blog after searching for books to fill my void! I haven’t been dissapointed yet! I am a teacher and am on winter break, which really feeds my reading addiction. I just finished, Edge of Never, and my void has grown immensly! I am in book mourning….argh. I am giving myself a day to calm down and let my nerves settle before picking up another book! I love your reccomendations and will continue to forge forward! Thank you.
Oh I am so glad there are so many of you out there, fellow gal readers who can appreciate all the wonderful books that our great Maryse has introduced us to. Thanks to a friend who recommended your Facebook page, I have read some of the greatest books, many on this list…I look forward to your reviews and can honestly say, there is a little addiction going on, just when I want to take a break, another great book pops up, hence, leading me to read 6 books a week for the past 7 months, yikes that’s a lot, but so worth it!!!! Thank you, thank you and keep the recommendations coming 🙂
Author Sara Fawkes is sthe same as Kelly Favor. Check out Kelly Favor’s For His Pleasure Series…..
I read Consequence and Truth. OMG!!!! I am so glad that I was able to go right to the 2nd book without have to wait. Now I am angry because I want to know what the heck happened? Was that really Tony at the end of the book that showed up? Grrr! When will the 3rd book in the series (Convicted) be released Maryse? I am dying here! 😀
Thank you. I have uploaded lots from your list on to my blackberry PlayBook.
I recommend Taylor Lee, Big girls don’t cry. Actually think I have read all of Taylor Lee books.All very good. Alpha male with good story line.
great list, I appreciate that you post. You definitely are helping me find things to read. If you haven’t read it yet, you should read Reapers Property by Joanna Wylde. It’s better than other biker books you have posted. ( very SOA)
I’m slowly going through the list here. I’ve already read most of them. I’m kinda debating about “Captive in the Dark” and “Undeniable” —not sure if I will like the dark theme. I just finished, Wallbanger! Oh my God, it was not what I expected. I loved it so much. Usually when it takes the hero/heroine too long to get together I get bored but this one, I hardly skimmed, it was so funny and even if they took forever, the progress of their relationship was well done. I had to stop reading towards the end of this book, because I could not stop laughing—I had tears in my eyes. So now, I’m checking what to read next.
I have read four of the series on this list and I have to say that I completely agree with your ratings. I never really got into Fifty Shades of Grey or really any of its sequels so I never read any of the other books on your list that were similar to it so, yeah.
But, I have a romantic comedy recommendation for you. The Bobbie Faye series by Toni McGee. While there is romance, it’s light and fluffy. There are three books total in the series and each and every one of them had me laughing so hard I was crying. I absolutely adore the author. If you’re ever looking for a series to just pick you up from a dull day or something to make you laugh unexpectedly, this series is high up on the list of books that can fit those goals. ^^ (Not to mention the extremely sexy guys in the books. Our heroine has a bit of a choice, although my choice never wavered)
You obviously love the books I love. Huge fan of 50 shades and Gideon was the perfect follow on (just waiting for the last book in the trilogy), then of course Travis and I’m loving the Carpathian novels… the list goes on and on and now I know which ones to read next thanks to you x
Love reading your “recommendations”. I have read most of the books on your list and look forward to future ones. Can’t get enough of reading!
I just love your list it has hlped me find so many books that I have absolutly love. I love reading so much that I almost cry when I finish a series yup thats how much I love reading. So I want to thank you for.always helping me find my next read.