favourite reads 2020
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Favourite Reads of 2020

2020 has been a fabulous year for books. There were only a handful of books that I didn’t love. And only one or two that I couldn’t finish. So to pick my top 10 is way too hard. Instead, I’m going to share my top 20 favourite reads, and even then I’m leaving some out.

So, in no particular order, here are my favourite reads* of 2020. (All of which would make great Christmas presents!

The Good Sister
by Sally Hepworth

Genre: Women’s Fiction

5 star read with an intriguing storyline, quirky protagonist, and a twist you won’t see coming.

Where The Crawdads Sing
by Delia Owens

Genre: General fiction/crime/literary

I listened the audio of this one and was captivated by the narrator and the characters. A touching, affecting story.

The Cake Maker’s Wish by Josephine Moon

Genre: Women’s Fiction/Food-lit

Such a lovely story. A bit romance, a bit food-lit, and an engaging story and likable characters. The perfect recipe for a great story!

The Secret Life of Shirley Sullivan
by Lisa Ireland

Genre: Women’s/Fiction

With both an historical and contemporary timeline that is brought together seamlessly, this tale will have you laughing and crying in the same session. A story that will make your heart swell.

The Switch
by Beth O’Leary

Genre: Women’s Fiction

The follow up from her debut novel The Flatshare (which was one of my 2019 favourites), Beth O’Leary shows she’s not a one-hit wonder. Another heartwarming story that will pull you into the characters lives where you won’t want to leave. O’Leary is one of my favourite authors.

Grown Ups
by Marian Keyes

Genre: Women’s Fiction

Another of my go-to authors and with good reason. Keyes knows how to write amazing stories about ordinary characters. A family saga with highs, lows, and everything in between.

Don’t You Forget About Me
by Mhairi McFarlane

Genre: Women’s Fiction

I listened to the audio of this and thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s a deeper tale than what the cover might allude to which gave it great depth.
Does touch on some sensitive topics.

Just an Ordinary Family
by Fiona Lowe

Genre: Women’s Fiction

This one was hard to put down. A twisting, turning tale exploring the dynamics of family and friendship. At times heartwarming, at other times heartbreaking – exactly what I love in a novel. Lowe’s best novel to date.

The Banksia Bay Beach Shack
by Sandie Docker

Genre: Women’s Fiction

Another delightful story from the talented Sandie Docker. Secrets. Lies. Intrigue. Who would have thought the sleepy coastal town of Banksia Bay would have them all?

The End Of Cuthbert Close
by Cassie Hamer

Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction

Cassie Hamer has delivered another outstanding offering in ‘The End of Cuthbert Close’ and stamped her foot firmly as an author who can deliver a page-turning, commentary on ordinary life.
For those who love Liane Moriarty and Sally Hepworth, Cassie Hamer should be another go-to novelist with her witty, intelligent take on women’s lives in modern times.

Charlotte Pass
by Lee Christine

Genre: Crime

My first book by Lee Christine and I’m already looking forward to the next one. An intriguing story that will keep you guessing right up to the end. Excellent, “page-turning” read.
I listened to the audio of this one.

My Life For Yours
by Vanessa Carnevale

Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction

A heartbreaking, hopeful read that will have you reaching for the tissues. You know when you finish a book and it renders you speechless? That’s how I felt after finishing this one.

The Matriarch
by Annabelle McInness

Genre: Dystopian/Spec Fiction

I loved the kick-ass premise of this book – a feminist-run democracy! Yes! The Matriarch isn’t my usual genre so for this book to hook me in from the first page says something.

Gathering Dark
by Candice Fox

Genre: Crime

Candice Fox takes it to the next level (if that were possible) in her latest crime novel. Such great characters, engaging story, and fast-paced narrative. Dark and in your face. Loved it.

Bottlebrush Creek
by Maya Linnell

Genre: Rural Romance

The second novel from rural fiction author Maya Linnell is just as good as the first. Just what you expect from a rural fiction novel – romance, gorgeous setting and loads of drama.

I Want You Back
by Joanne Tracy

Genre: Women’s Fiction/rom-com

I devoured this book in every spare moment I could. A wonderful story with fun characters, lots of laughs and bucket loads of romantic tension. A great read to escape from 2020.

Flying The Nest
by Rachael Johns

Genre: Romantic Women’s Fiction

All the warm characters you expect, all the emotions, and such an interesting premise. Rachael Johns fans will love it, and new readers will be convinced to read her contemporary backlist.

Wherever You go
by Monique Mulligan

Genre: Women’s Fiction

A wonderful read that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster of lows and highs. The foodie in me was in heaven reading some of the descriptions of the mouthwatering dishes! Thoroughly enjoyed this one.

The Final Siren
by Nicki Edwards

Genre: Romance/Small Town Fiction


Nicki Edwards delivers, as always, a solid story with likable characters, loads of tension, and a cracking romance. A great fun read.

*Books I read during 2020, not necessarily published in 2020

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2 Comments

  1. Great selection Jodi – we have such similar taste – I’ve read 11 of those myself and agree with you – such great titles 😀👍🏻📚

  2. Fabulous post, Jodi, and thanks so much for including Bottlebrush Creek! I’ve read twelve on your list and they are some of my favourites too! ♥️🦋🍾

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