The start of a new year gives us a chance for fresh beginnings and it gives Goodreads the chance to remind us that we are already behind on our reading goals. We’ve all had that moment of innocently logging in to update our reading status, only to see the Goodreads Reading Challenge widget announcing just how many books behind schedule we are (my highest was 17!). Whether you track your yearly reading with Goodreads or through other means, we can all use some good, fast reads to help us smash those reading goals and I’ve got 10 series to help you with that!
The Illuminae Files by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff
Told through a collection of interview transcripts, emails, hacked military documents, chat logs, and more, The Illuminae Files is the epic story of a heartless (alleged) attack by a mega-corporation on a secret mining colony at the planet Kerenza and the group of teens who fight back for a life worth living for. Oh, and don’t forget the murderous AI who is only trying to help. While each book in the series clocks in at over 600 pages, the unique storytelling format makes for an accelerated and intense read that will have you reading at every chance you get. (FYI: read the book while listening to the audiobook! You’ll thank me, I promise!)
Jackaby by William Ritter
Abigail Rook has escaped the patriarchal grasp of her English life and found herself in New England, where she becomes the assistant to R.F. Jackaby, an eccentric investigator of the supernatural. Part Sherlock, part Buffy, with a dash of Doctor Who, the Jackaby series is a fantastic and fast read that will have you knocking out four books with ease.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
One of the most popular YA dystopian series around, The Hunger Games focuses on Katniss Everdeen as she battles through battle royale style arenas, horrifically tyrannical governments, and one of the most well-argued love triangles in recent memory. Come for the action and angst, stay for the political warfare! This trilogy has everything you need to keep you turning pages.
The Night World by L.J. Smith
The Night World is a secret society of vampires, werewolves, and witches with two strict rules: do not tell humans about the Night World and do not fall in love with a human. Each book tells the story of a different Night World member breaking these rules with spectacular abandon. Some may find these books a bit cheesy, but they are fast, snarky, addictively dramatic, and will quickly mark 9 books off your reading list.
The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells
Murderbot, a SecUnit who has bypassed its governor module, just wants to spend their time binge-watching TV series and ignoring the emotions of the humans it was hired to keep alive. But with its bloody history lurking and a corporate conspiracy constantly getting in the way, Murderbot finds itself doing the unthinkable: caring. The four novellas of the Murderbot Diaries are not only quick reads with each being under 200 pages, but they are also some of the most intriguing character driven stories of the past decade.
The Tortall Books by Tamora Pierce
Started all the way back in the 80s, The Tortall books span six series set in the fantasy world of Tortall. Though nearly 40 years old, these short novels focus on female empowerment in a male dominated society and each heroine is inspiring in their own way. Featuring wild magic, strong female main characters, and swoony love interests, The Tortall books are completely engrossing and can quickly add 18 books to your goal.
Shadow of the Fox by Julie Kagawa
Half kitsune, Yumeko, is tasked with bringing an ancient scroll to a hidden temple without letting it fall into the hands of the Shadow Clan or the rising demon army threatening the world. With characters that pull on your heartstrings and make you laugh out loud in equal measure, this epic road trip story will keep you reading late into the night. While technically not a complete series yet, the third book, Night of the Dragon, releases March 31, 2020.
Charlotte Holmes by Brittany Cavallaro
Descendants of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson meet at a Connecticut prep school and immediately get drawn into solving murders and navigating their family’s sordid history. With twists and turns and plenty of drama, this four novel series is addictive and quick to read with no book over 350 pages in the series.
The Confectioner’s Chronicles by Claire Luana
Wren Confectioner starts her day as a humble bakery assistant and ends it as the prime suspect in the murder of the head of the Confectioner’s Guild. Teamed with a handsome inspector, a host of new friends, and her new-found magical baking powers, Wren fights to prove her innocence and uncover the magical culinary conspiracy threatening her world. This series is an absolute delight to read and will have you smiling with every page you read.
The Folk of the Air by Holly Black
Jude Durate, a mortal girl raised in the capricious land of Faerie with her sisters after her parents are murdered, entangles herself in court politics, deadly battles of wit, and the cruel prince himself, Carden Greenbriar. Holly Black is dubbed Queen of Faerie for good reason. She crafts fast paced and quick-witted Fae stories that will ensnare you faster than faerie wine.
I love how you worked in an LJ Smith plug. All the power to your LJ Smith recommendations! Haha. The Tortall, Murderbot, and Illuminae recommendations are spot on, too 🙂
lol, can’t stop, won’t stop, LJ Smith fangirl for life! I’m glad you liked my other recs too!