It’s that time of year again people. The time where we, the voracious and obsessive readers of LGBTQ romance, look back and reflect on what an amazing year of books it’s been. If you’re anything like us then you’re already compiling your 2018 “To Read” list, but first, let’s share some of our favourite books from the year just gone.

Over the next few weeks we’ll be posting our top reads of the year. Please feel free to tell us your own favourites, or simply comment on our choices.

One commenter from each of these posts will win a $5 store credit with Dreamspinner Press.

 

Christine J

 

Audio: Shelter the Sea by Heidi Cullinan, Narrated by Iggy Toma

This is an excellent sequel to Carry the Ocean, featuring a dual-POV for main characters: one autistic, the other battling anxiety and depression. As they struggle with their own personal obstacles, they must also find a way to save their beloved home, The Roosevelt. Iggy Toma is perfect as he brings the beautiful Emmet and Jeremy to life.

 

Audio: Murmuration by TJ Klune, Narrated by Kirt Graves

This genre-bending novel is hard to categorize, and it’s all the better for it. This part romance, part science fiction, part psychological thriller keeps its listeners guessing and intrigued until the very end. It is stunning, fascinating, and engrossing. Kirt Graves does a wonderful job engaging the listener.

Audio: Deviations: Submission by Chris Owen and Jodi Payne, Narrated by Maxx Power

This series has been a favorite go-to of mine for years, so I was over the moon when the audiobook came out. It did not disappoint as I got to revisit the beginning of Tobias and Noah’s beautiful, intimate BDSM relationship on audio. Maxx Power’s performance is low-key and thoughtful in execution.

Audio: The Imperfection of Swans by Brandon Witt, Narrated by Kirt Graves

Emotional and impactful, this story about the struggle with body image and the pursuit of perfection zings straight to the heart. Thought provoking and unusual, it is one of Mr. Witt’s better works, in my opinion. Kirt Graves also does a lovely job of breathing life into the characters and story.

 

Audio: The Weight of it All by N.R. Walker, Narrated by Joel Leslie

This audiobook will be one I return to again and again. Heartwarming, funny, and charming, it follows the misadventures of overweight Henry as he tries to get fit enough to win back his boyfriend. Laugh out loud moments and sweet, engaging characters make this a favorite of mine. Joel Leslie, always endearing and on point, is perfection here.

 

Audio: Locked In Silence by Sloane Kennedy, Narrated by Michael Pauley

As my introduction to Sloane Kennedy, I was pleasantly moved by the chemistry between the characters in this story and the connection I had to them. Their devotion to the animals that grace the pages is heartwarming and satisfying. Michael Pauley does a beautiful job bringing the story’s warmth and emotion to the listener.

 

Audio: Mad About the Hatter by Dakota Chase, Narrated by Joel Froomkin

Recommended to me by the narrator himself, this is a clever, witty take on the Alice in Wonderland story that features her brother Henry. Fun, exciting, and full of adventure, it is a fast-paced return to Wonderland with a sweet touch of m/m romance. Joel Froomkin is an excellent performer and shines superbly here.

 

Audio: Femme by Marshall Thornton, Narrated by Joel Leslie

A fun, goofy, and touching take on the opposites attract trope, Femme is entertaining and full of engaging characters. My first experience with Thornton Marshall, I enjoyed the antics and mishaps that brought the characters to life. Joel Leslie, always a favorite of mine, keeps the hilarity going and sweetness real.

Audio: A Second Harvest by Eli Easton, Narrated by Will Tulin

I read this in print form and fell in love with it, so when the audio version came out, I was thrilled to give it a listen. David and Christie are two of my all time favorite characters, and their story is emotional, powerful, and touching. Will Tulin does a fair job of narrating this story of coming out and taking second chances at love.

Audio: Broken by Nicola Haken, Narrated by Joel Leslie

Intense and eye-opening, Broken takes a close look at mental illness and its effect on those who struggle with it and their relationships with others. Without becoming too maudlin or dark, it is strongly emotional—at times heartbreakingly so— and is an impressive testament to hope, love, and devotion amidst despair. Again, Joel Leslie is brilliant as he brings the characters and their individual voices to life.