Which Authors Wrote The Best Novels To Read In The Last Decade?

I’ve always been drawn to novels that leave a lasting impression, and '1984' by George Orwell is one of those books that changed how I see the world. Its dystopian setting and themes of surveillance and freedom are eerily relevant today. Another favorite is 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee, which tackles racism and morality with such grace and depth that it stays with you long after you finish it. For something lighter but equally impactful, 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho is a beautiful journey about following your dreams. These books aren’t just stories; they’re experiences that shape your perspective.

Vietnamese literature has a rich tapestry of stories that reflect the country's history, culture, and soul. One of my all-time favorites is 'The Sorrow of War' by Bao Ninh, a hauntingly beautiful novel that delves into the aftermath of the Vietnam War through the eyes of a soldier. It's raw, poetic, and deeply moving. Another masterpiece is 'Paradise of the Blind' by Duong Thu Huong, which explores family dynamics and political turmoil in post-war Vietnam with incredible depth. For those who enjoy historical fiction, 'The Quiet American' by Graham Greene, though written by a British author, offers a gripping portrayal of Vietnam during the French colonial period. If you're into contemporary works, 'The Mountains Sing' by Nguyen Phan Que Mai is a stunning multigenerational saga that captures the resilience of the Vietnamese people. And let's not forget 'Dumb Luck' by Vu Trong Phung, a satirical gem that critiques colonial society with sharp wit. Each of these novels offers a unique window into Vietnam's complex identity.

I’ve always been drawn to biblical novels that blend historical depth with compelling storytelling. One of my absolute favorites is 'The Red Tent' by Anita Diamant, which reimagines the life of Dinah from the Book of Genesis. The way Diamant breathes life into these ancient characters is nothing short of magical. Another standout is 'The Book of Longings' by Sue Monk Kidd, which gives a voice to Ana, a fictional wife of Jesus. The novel’s exploration of faith, love, and resilience is deeply moving. For a more epic scope, 'The Pillar of the Earth' by Ken Follett isn’t strictly biblical but captures the spirit of medieval Christianity with its grand narrative of cathedral building. These books offer a fresh perspective on familiar stories, making them feel new and deeply personal.

As someone deeply immersed in literature from around the world, I find Arabic novels to be a treasure trove of rich storytelling and cultural depth. 'The Yacoubian Building' by Alaa Al Aswany is a masterpiece that delves into the lives of diverse characters living in a Cairo apartment building, offering a poignant look at Egyptian society. Another must-read is 'Season of Migration to the North' by Tayeb Salih, a haunting tale of identity and colonialism that stays with you long after the last page. For those who enjoy historical fiction, 'The Bamboo Stalk' by Saud Alsanousi is a beautifully written exploration of identity and belonging, following a young man of mixed heritage. 'Cities of Salt' by Abdelrahman Munif provides a gripping narrative about the impact of oil discovery on a traditional Bedouin community, blending politics and personal drama. If you prefer something more contemporary, 'Frankenstein in Baghdad' by Ahmed Saadawi is a darkly satirical take on war and morality, reimagining the classic tale in modern Iraq. Each of these novels offers a unique window into the Arab world, making them essential reads.

As someone who thrives on stories that celebrate the joy of reading itself, I absolutely adore novels where books are central to the plot. 'The Shadow of the Wind' by Carlos Ruiz Zafón is a masterpiece—it’s a love letter to literature, set in a mysterious Barcelona bookstore, with a labyrinthine plot that keeps you hooked. The way it intertwines stories within stories is pure magic. Another favorite is 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak, narrated by Death, which follows a young girl in Nazi Germany who finds solace in stolen books. The raw emotion and the power of words in this novel are unforgettable. For a lighter but equally charming read, 'Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore' by Robin Sloan blends mystery, tech, and bibliophilia in the most delightful way. These books remind me why I fell in love with reading in the first place.

BookTok has introduced me to so many incredible HEA (Happily Ever After) novels that I can’t stop recommending. One of my absolute favorites is 'The Love Hypothesis' by Ali Hazelwood. It’s a STEM romance with a fake-dating trope that’s both hilarious and heartwarming. Another gem is 'It Ends with Us' by Colleen Hoover, which, despite its emotional depth, delivers a satisfying and hopeful ending. For those who love fantasy, 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' by Sarah J. Maas is a must-read with its epic romance and stunning world-building. If you’re into contemporary romance, 'People We Meet on Vacation' by Emily Henry is a delightful friends-to-lovers story that’s perfect for a cozy read. 'The Spanish Love Deception' by Elena Armas is another BookTok favorite, offering a slow-burn romance with plenty of tension and charm. Lastly, 'Red, White & Royal Blue' by Casey McQuiston is a feel-good, enemies-to-lovers story that’s impossible to put down. These novels are perfect for anyone looking for a guaranteed HEA with a mix of humor, heart, and unforgettable characters.

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in literature, I’ve found that some of the best English novels are those that leave a lasting impression, whether through their storytelling, characters, or themes. One of my all-time favorites is 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. It’s a powerful exploration of morality, justice, and human nature, told through the eyes of young Scout Finch. The way Lee tackles complex issues with such simplicity and depth is truly remarkable. Another novel I adore is '1984' by George Orwell. Its dystopian vision of a totalitarian society is both chilling and thought-provoking. The themes of surveillance, truth, and freedom are as relevant today as they were when the book was first published. For those who enjoy a mix of fantasy and philosophy, 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien is a masterpiece. The world-building, the intricate plot, and the timeless battle between good and evil make it a must-read. If you’re looking for something more contemporary, 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak is a beautiful and heartbreaking story set in Nazi Germany. The unique narrative perspective, with Death as the narrator, adds a layer of poignancy to the tale. Lastly, 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen remains a classic for a reason. The wit, the romance, and the social commentary make it a timeless piece of literature that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.

As someone who devours thrillers like candy, I’ve scoured the internet for the best free reads. Project Gutenberg is a goldmine for classic thrillers like 'The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes' by Arthur Conan Doyle—timeless and gripping. For more modern picks, ManyBooks and Open Library offer titles like 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson in their free sections. Don’t overlook fan-translated gems on sites like Wattpad, where indie authors drop serialized thrillers like 'The Silent Patient' fan theories. Libraries also partner with apps like Libby or Hoopla, giving free access to bestsellers like 'Gone Girl' with a library card. Just remember: while free, supporting authors you love ensures more heart-stopping stories in the future!