BookLife's Best-Reviewed Titles of 2017

These books were among the best of the best in 2017.

Of the many BookLife titles reviewed by Publishers Weekly in 2017, these 10 books—romances, mysteries, works of non-fiction, and a whole lot more—were simply the very best to cross our reviewers' and editors' desks.

Your New Best Friend by Jayne Denker
"Good intentions go awry in this delicious romantic comedy by Denker."

Over the Hill and Gaining Speed: Reflections in Retirement by Kay G. Rock
"Though aging can bring its demands, the author shows how the journey can be exciting and invigorating in this wide-ranging collection of winsome short-takes."

Hamilton’s Battalion: A Trio of Romances by Courtney Milan, Alyssa Cole, and Rose Lerner
"Strong, appealing protagonists, witty dialogue, and well-researched history make these three stories shine."

Oink: A Food for Thought Mystery by J.L. Newton
"The winning lead, superior prose, and clever plotting set this above the pack. Recipes are a bonus."

De Facto Feminism: Essays Straight Outta Oakland by Judy Juanita
"The essays in this collection from poet and novelist Juanita provide a dynamic and illuminating take on a distinct subset of feminism nurtured by Oakland, Calif.’s community, as well as the story of Juanita’s coming of age as an artist."

Into the Fun House: An Unpredictable Story of a Relentless Leukemia by Walter Harp
"Harp’s harrowing debut exhaustively chronicles the twists and turns of his struggle with acute lymphoblastic leukemia over the past decade."

Blowback ’07: When the Only Way Forward Is Back by Brian Meehl
"With propulsive pacing and an entertaining mix of witticisms, historical lessons, romance, and poignant moments, Meehl’s SF adventure hits all the right notes."

The Smart One by Drew Yanno
"The twists are surprising but plausible, and the spare prose a good match for the fast-moving plot."

Banshees by Mike Baron
"Baron’s smart dialogue propels his globe-trotting characters along in a charismatic ballad of carnage. Horror buffs and metal fans will marvel at every grinding detail in this meaty, grim fantasy."

Forest Child by Heather Day Gilbert
"Gilbert crafts an engaging story depicting timeless human struggles with faith, love, loyalty, and leadership."