Top 5 Wednesday: Hidden Gems in Your Favorite Genre

I’m not really sure that I have a favorite genre. Here then are 5 hidden gems–5 quirky/fun little novels that I highly recommend.

 

1. The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addison Allen

 

It’s hard to pick just one favorite of Sarah Addison Allen’s books–each has that distinctive touch of whimsey. Not quite magic, not quite real–whatever you call it, I call if “fun.” Who wouldn’t want someone living in their closet–the clost you love to eat your secret stash of candy in? There’s so much more in this book than just the “sugar” tie-in though. Just read it, ok? The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addison Allen.

 

2. My Italian Bulldozer by Alexander McCall Smith

 

I’m a big Alex McC-S fan. His 44 Scotland Street and No. 1 Ladies Detective Agencie series are annual fixturs in my commuting audio book year! This little gem is just marvelous fun! Plus, as I said in my review located here, it would be a perfect movie for Hugh Bonneville and Elizabeth McGovern!  My Italian Bulldozer by Alexander McCall Smith.

 

3. Mrs. Engles by Gavin McCrae

 

History has another side: HERstory. Mrs. Engels, the common law wife of Karl Marx writing partner Frederich Engels, is a hoot! She’s lived the life and lived to tell. This book was the perfect College Reunion for me–I was a Russian Studies Major and this just refused to take it all seriously. Mrs. Engels by Gavin McCrae.

 

4. Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simmonson

 

This gem of a romantic novel may well have started the quirky old man novel genre. Ironically, I didn’t love it at first–in fact I threw it back. But when I got it on audio I went wild for it. It’s now on my all-time favorites list–a very high honor reserved for only the very best of the best–in mho of course! Major Pettigrew and Mrs. Ali are hope for every romatic’s soul. Who cares if the families don’t understand? Life is too short for caring. Get on with life and love. Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simmonson.

 

5. Salmon Fishing in the Yemen by Paul Torday

The late Paul Torday was a genuis at writing send-ups of pompous, gas-bag politicians! This wonderful little novel has a boondoggle of a foreign aid project coupled with all the CYA-Westminster can manage. I loved every word. Salmon Fishing in the Yemen by Paul Torday.

 

Top 5 Wednesday has a group on Goodreads you can join. Then post your blog or YouTube video about the week’s topic. It’s great fun and you find amazing books thru others poster’s recommendations.