Ali Roberts' 3 favorite reads in 2024

To put it simply -- I've never read a book like this. From the brilliantly spun spider-web of storylines to the characters to the gothic world of Barcelona, it was all masterfully done. Záfon has a gorgeous (though sometimes shocking) way with words. As I ventured through this story I kept thinking got myself, "this man was born to write." The lessons and characters woven are haunting, enchanting and timeless. Fair warning, this is a dark novel. Záfon doesn't shy away from the brokenness of humanity, or its passions. It isn't violently graphic, but I would not categorize it as a "clean" novel.

I absolutely flew through this novel. It isn't my usual go-to, but after persistent nagging from my beloved siblings I finally gave it a try. What a delight! I laughed out loud. I cried. I was simultaneously pulled into a dilapidated America set in the near-future, and the past world of the 1980's and enjoyed every second of it. The MC, Wade Watts, is immediately endearing. The nostalgia and world-building is SO fascinating. Absolutely excellent read! I will say, I listened to the audiobook (fantastically done) and there is a fair amount of swearing. Don't listen if little kids are around!

Oh my goodness. I am still shocked that this has not been made into a movie or a documentary! The evil genius behind Stéphane Breitwieser is absolutely astounding. I didn't know anything, really, about the world of museums and art theft until reading this gem. Finkel's research and dedication to get to the truth of this story is impressive. The book also provides a look into the European legal system which I found fascinating, as Stéphane committed thefts in multiple countries, with his home-base being in France. While nonfiction, this book reads like a fiction novel, which makes the truth of it all the more wild!