Reader, I read 200 books in 2021 and some were good, others, not so much. If you’ve been following me for a while you know it takes a lot for me to give a book 5 ⭐. Last year I read 7 books that truly swept me away, I loved them so much and till now I can’t stop thinking about them.

Today, I want to share that list.
These are not necessarily books published in 2021, I just happened to read them in that year.

Home Front by Kristin Hannah. This is a book that hit me so hard I didn’t expect it. It also led me to want to read all Kristin Hannah books. Read my review here

The Mermaid of Black Conch by Monique Roffey. I read this book twice in 2021. The first time on audio which was amazing! Then I bought a physical copy and I was still awed and wowed. Read my review here

The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang. It has become a tradition to read this book once a year and I am still as obsessed with it.


Stay With Me by Ayobami Adebayo. This book had me at the edge of my seat. I read it in one sitting as I couldn’t have enough. Read my review here


Love After Love by Ingrid Persaud. I honestly can’t get enough of this book. I read it on audio and it was amazing. The characters shine in this book.


WAKE: The Hidden History of Women Led Slave Revolts by Rebecca Hall. This is part graphic novel, part Memoir that I think everyone should read. It’s rich in history, most of it that I didn’t know. Not to mention the amazing illustrations. Read my review here


Kintu by Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi. Listen, do yourself a favor and pick up this book. The writing, the characters, the plot, the history! My goodness, all of it make this book one brilliant read, I couldn’t put it down.

Honorable Mentions
Now these are books that I read and loved that didn’t quite make the 5 star mark, but I gave 4.5 stars. One thing or another made me not give it that half point mark but I loved the books all the same.


Arsène Lupin, Gentleman – Burglar by Maurice LeBlanc. I was thrilled by this book and had so many shocking and twisty turns.

The Dragons, The Giant, The Women by Wayétu Moore. A Memoir that is both poignant and interesting. I couldn’t put this book down. Read my review here


An Ordinary Wonder by Buki Papillon. A brilliant début that I think everyone should read. I simply can’t stop recommending this book. Read my review here


The First Woman by Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi. The story telling in this book is unmatched. I quite enjoyed it.


Frenchman’s Creek by Daphne du Maurier. I had so many laugh out loud moments while reading this book. Not to mention Daphne du Maurier’s haunting writing. I loved it.

That’s it for my list. See any favorites? Tell me about your 5 star reads of 2021, I’m keen on knowing about them. Until next time, read something good.