BEST BOOKS of 2016 ...so far

  As we reach the middle of 2016 -notwithstanding my expedient tardiness- it's time to take a look back at the best books  I've read so far. Presented in no particular order, here are the reads I've to shelve from January to June with my highest rating.

• The Visitor by Amanda Stevens - This 4th installment from the Graveyard Queen series is the creepiest the author has come up with, and it made my (eager) wait really worth it.
• When Falcons Fall by C.S. Harris - I can't remember a book from this series that I don't like. Mostly, because the author is a great historian, and with the full knowledge of her subject, she's able to seamlessly weave historical facts and fiction convincingly together. And the suspense here was killing me, so I read it overnight.
• Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein - A fun, fun read. I love how this book does its best to encourage children to experience the joys of reading and appreciate the many things a library can offer. Makes me wish I am a kid again. But sad that children in the Philippines will not fully experience this since city/public libraries are close to nil.  This book has a good range of book recommendations, from different genres, it's just wonderful.
• The Children Act by Ian McEwan - This first encounter with the author is totally awesome. He is a great conductor that masterfully directs words into playing what wrecks the heart in the most compelling way. Now, I'm a fan.
• Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman - I am simply in awe of the love this book contains. Probably, one of the major influences why I loved the London Spy series so much. 
• 15th Affair by James Paterson, Maxine Paetro - This is probably the most conflicting installment in the series. I stayed awake until almost two in the morning just so I could finish and close the book in peace, but I ended up tossing and turning miserably in bed instead. If you are familiar with the series, you'll know where I am coming from.
• Faithful Place by Tana French - When I started with the series, little did I know that I'd be very interested with tough Frank Mackey. I learned, later, underneath all that hard shell is a tender heart afflicted by a past, and I felt his ache.
• Surrender, New York by Caleb Carr - After four years, Carr's new novel is well-timed and worth waiting for. I highly recommend it. 

Meanwhile, my runner ups are:

• Miller's Valley by Anna Quindlen - the narration is very akin to having an intimate conversation with a friend. The author is very insightful.
• The Girl from Everywhere by Heidi Heilig - Incidentally enough, this appeared to be on Book Riot's Best Books for 2016, so far.
• My Name is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout - This too appeared in Time's Best Books for 2016 So Far.

And with that, I bid you "good hunting" for your next best book, while I go back to my slothful existence. Ta-ta!