While in quarantine, I’ve been revisiting some favorite books of mine, so I thought I’d share some authors who have become must-reads for me. If you’ve been following this blog for a while, you’ve probably seen me mention them; if you’re newer, here are some of my favorite books and authors!

Some of these authors are relatively new to me, but they have definitely earned their places on this list! I’ve arranged the order from smallest to largest number of books published, because if I had to rank them by who I like best, I’d never post it because I’d never decide on a favorite!

Casey McQuiston

Author of Red, White & Royal Blue

She has only published one book so far, but it was such a delight that I cannot wait for her to publish more. The phrase “one to watch” definitely applies here.

Susanna Clarke

Author of Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell

Strange & Norrell is one of my favorite books, ever. And Clarke’s collection of short stories is also worth a read, and so she has carved herself a place on this list easily. The moment I learned her upcoming novel, Piranesi, existed, I wanted to read it, and that’s before I even knew the synopsis!

Erin Morgenstern

Author of The Night Circus and The Starless Sea

I’ve only ever heard glowing reviews of Night Circus, which is indeed a fantastic book. Personally, I think I prefer Starless Sea, but I read it first. Still, Morgenstern has such a skill with words that I’d read anything she writes.

Jen Wang

Author of The Prince and the Dressmaker and Stargazing

Of course the author/artist of my favorite book of 2019 is on here! Both her graphic novels have been amazing and adorable and uplifting, and I cannot wait to see what she creates next! Hopefully, it’s something that comes out soon.

Madeline Miller

Author of The Song of Achilles and Circe

Both Miller’s novels are beautiful. Anything related to mythology is intriguing to me, but these in particular are wonderful, original retellings. Her skill with characters has made her a favorite author of mine, and I’m craving more.

Elizabeth Acevedo

Author of The Poet X and other titles

Acevedo is such a powerful wordsmith, creating stories and characters you’ll never forget. I have loved how her books celebrate Afrolatina characters, as well as incorporating themes of family and faith. Every book she’s written is incredible.

Markus Zusak

Author of The Book Thief and other titles

Nothing this man has written or probably will write could ever top The Book Thief for me, but he has a skill with lyrical prose that has cast a spell on me I have no desire to break out of. ALL his books are beautifully written and intriguing.

V. E. Schwab

Author of A Darker Shade of Magic and other titles

I loved the Shades of Magic trilogy, and greatly enjoyed the Villains and Cassidy Blake books. However, with Addie LaRue, V. E. Schwab has firmly established herself as one of the most important, most influential authors in my life. I haven’t read all of her books yet, but I will, just to confirm I’m right in thinking she is SPECTACULAR.

Rick Riordan

Author of the Percy Jackson series and other titles

I spent basically all of my tween/teen years reading Percy Jackson and the Heroes of Olympus, and honestly still really love Riordan’s writing and universe. He’s witty and funny, and is doing excellent things by promoting diversity and Own Voices stories in the middle grade genre with his Rick Riordan publishing imprint. I’ve come to admire him more and more as time goes by.