Although 2011 isn’t over yet, I wanted to share with you my Best Books of 2011 list! Feel free to comment and add your favorite books of the year too.

Best Books of 2011

In the following categories, we have…

Best Novel by a Debut Author

Wither by Lauren DeStefano

I really enjoyed the strong, quiet nature of this book. Rhine’s story of kidnapping, love and loss is told beautifully, and I can’t wait to read what DeStefano writes next!

Best Romance

The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

The romance in this book had me turning pages like a mad fiend!! It was steamy, complicated and completely unresolved (in the best way possible).

Favorite Character

Cassel Sharpe in White Cat and Red Glove (both by Holly Black)

Cassel had me laughing, crying and dying for more. I’m in love this curse-working con man!!

Most Interesting World/Setting

Coronets and Steel by Sherwood Smith

You really can’t top Europe as a setting, right? In this book rustic Eastern Europe, romantic Paris and historical Germany were some of the highlighted locales. As a bonus, the characters are also briefly on a luxurious, high-speed train!! (Swoon!)

Best Ending

The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

Not only did I not predict the ending of this book, but it absolutely shocked me! It had me saying out loud, “You’ve got to be joking!!” This book definitely WASN’T joking, and the ending was a welcome surprise.

Most Exciting Plot, or the Top Book I Wanted to Re-Read Immediately

The Girl in the Steel Corset by Kady Cross

This novel really taught me what steampunk is all about. But even more than that- it was a fantastic novel overall. The action and adventure were well-paced and extremely exciting. It definitely got my blood pumping!!

Most Ridiculous Love Triangle

Firelight & Vanish by Sophie Jordan

Even though I’ve complained about the instalove and rampant hormonal overloads in this series, I would be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it. The ETERNAL battle between Cassian and Will sucked me in and kept me reading (which distracted me from rolling my eyes time to time).

Best Overall Fantasy

The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson

The Girl of Fire and Thorns pulled an “ugly cry” out of me and still had me feeling triumphant at the end. That is masterful skill that only the best fantasy book can provide.

Most Gripping/Suspenseful

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

I loved, loved LOVED this book. I was equal parts confused, riveted and suspicious. I also had nightmares, but it was a side effect I’m willing to endure. I knew right away it would be on my Best Books of 2011 roster.

Best Use of Language (as a Literary Tool)

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

Shatter Me was so different than any of the other books I read this year. It used a bunch of this and had a stream of consciousness feel that added to the dynamic and character of the book. Well played, Mafi, well played.

Best Historical Fiction

Darker Still by Leanna Renee Hieber (review to come)

Darker Still is set in New York City during the 1800s – it’s romantic and dreamy and full of charm. Plus, the period dresses sound divine.

Best New Series

Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder

Maria V. Snyder has written 3 amazing series so far, and the Healer series is her newest. I’m completely fascinated with the world, healing abilities and characters. Here’s to more of her books coming out in 2012!

Best Book I’ve Read All Year

Divergent by Veronica Roth

This book rocked my socks!!! It had everything I look for in books (romance, action, drama, mystery) and executed it all perfectly. I can’t even count the number of friends I’ve told about this novel. If I had to guess, I’d say it would be in the teens… haha!

There you have it – my Best Books of 2011! It was so hard compiling this list, but the top books always tend to shine

What were your Best Books of 2011?