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Featured Author
James Patterson
The author of the year for 2022 is James Patterson. With fourteen books published this year, he has been and remains one of the most prolific and popular modern writers. Although best known for his Mystery, Thriller & Suspense titles, he's authored works in many genres, from Non-Fiction to Young Adult, Historical Fiction, and Romance.
Patterson has the distinction of making our full Best Books of 2022 list three times, with his books The Horsewoman, Run Rose Run, and 22 Seconds.
More from this author
Book Riot's Best of 2022
from: $13.29
Discover the Best Books of 2022: Critically Acclaimed, Beloved, and Unmissable Reads
Looking for your next great read? The best books of 2022 offered something for every reader, from moving literary fiction and heart-pounding thrillers to inspiring memoirs and thought-provoking debuts. Whether you’re searching for the year’s best selling books or want to explore the most talked-about releases, this collection highlights standout titles that made waves in 2022. Browse below to find new favorites, revisit top picks, and discover hidden gems—all at affordable prices from ThriftBooks.
Why Explore the 2022 Best Books?
- Stay in the literary conversation: These books sparked discussion, won awards, and topped bestseller lists.
- Wide range of genres: From contemporary fiction and historical sagas to inventive debuts and immersive fantasy, there’s something for every taste.
- Perfect for gifts and book clubs: The most popular books of 2022 are ideal for sharing with friends and loved ones.
- Discover new voices: Many emerging authors broke through with unforgettable stories last year.
Top Fiction Picks: Award Winners & Bestselling Novels of 2022
For fiction lovers, 2022 was an incredible year for bold storytelling and unforgettable characters. Here are some of the most celebrated novels that captured readers’ imaginations:
- Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver—Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, this modern retelling of David Copperfield set in Appalachia explores resilience, poverty, and hope. Perfect for fans of literary fiction and social commentary.
- Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus—This witty and empowering novel follows a 1960s female scientist who defies expectations, making it a book club favorite and one of the best selling books of 2022.
- Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin—A moving story about friendship, creativity, and the world of video game design, this book was a critical darling and loved by readers seeking originality.
- Our Missing Hearts by Celeste Ng—This dystopian novel blends lyrical prose and timely themes of censorship and family, cementing Ng’s reputation as a master storyteller.
- To Paradise by Hanya Yanagihara—An ambitious, sweeping epic spanning three centuries and alternate Americas, this book is perfect for fans of literary sagas.
- French Braid by Anne Tyler—A multigenerational family story told with warmth and insight, ideal for those who appreciate nuanced character studies.
- Lapvona by Ottessa Moshfegh—A dark, inventive tale set in a medieval village, this novel pushes boundaries and is perfect for readers who love literary fiction with an edge.
- The Winners by Fredrik Backman—The highly anticipated conclusion to the Beartown series, offering a powerful look at community, loyalty, and forgiveness.
Historical Fiction & Moving Family Dramas
If you love stories set in the past or novels that delve deep into family dynamics, these 2022 standout books are sure to satisfy:
- The Book Woman's Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson—A companion to the bestselling The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek, this inspiring novel follows a young packhorse librarian in 1950s Kentucky.
- Horse by Geraldine Brooks—A sweeping historical epic tracing the journey of a legendary racehorse through centuries, blending art, science, and the legacy of racism in America.
- The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand—Set in a glamorous seaside hotel, this novel is filled with secrets, romance, and the charm of Nantucket, making it a summer favorite among the 2022 best books.
- Lucy by the Sea by Elizabeth Strout—This introspective novel captures the uncertainty and connection of pandemic life, following beloved character Lucy Barton as she contemplates love and loss.
- Either/Or by Elif Batuman—A sharp and witty coming-of-age story, following a young woman’s intellectual and emotional adventures through college life.
Genre Standouts: Thrillers, Speculative, and Unconventional Reads
For readers who crave suspense, experimental storytelling, or a touch of the surreal, these 2022 best books offer fresh perspectives and unforgettable twists:
- You've Lost a Lot of Blood by Eric LaRocca—A chilling, genre-bending novel that blurs the line between horror and psychological suspense. Recommended for fans of dark fiction and literary experimentation.
- Night of the Living Rez by Morgan Talty—This powerful short story collection explores Native American life in Maine with raw honesty and compassion, earning critical acclaim for its unique voice.
- Pure Colour by Sheila Heti—A philosophical and poetic novel that contemplates art, love, and the fate of the world, perfect for readers seeking something truly original among the 2022 best books.
- Dark Whisper by Christine Feehan—A thrilling paranormal romance, ideal for fans of fantasy and supernatural intrigue.
Best Selling Books of 2022 for Escapism & Entertainment
Sometimes you want a book that’s pure fun, whether it’s a heartwarming drama, a page-turning adventure, or a sweeping romance. These best selling books 2022 delivered big on entertainment value:
- The Horsewoman by James Patterson & Mike Lupica—A fast-paced story of family, ambition, and the high-stakes world of competitive equestrian sports.
- The Winners by Fredrik Backman—Not just a critical hit, but also a favorite among readers looking for a gripping, emotional read.
- The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand—A must-read for fans of escapist fiction set in dreamy locations.
2022 Best Books: Great Choices for Book Clubs and Discussion
Looking for the perfect pick for your next book club meeting? The best books of 2022 generated lively conversations and offered plenty of food for thought. Here are a few standout options:
- Lessons in Chemistry—With its sharp humor and timely themes of gender and science, this novel gets everyone talking.
- Our Missing Hearts—A timely dystopian novel that’s both moving and thought-provoking, ideal for deep discussion.
- Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow—Explores friendship, art, and ambition in ways that resonate with a wide range of readers.
- French Braid—Anne Tyler’s nuanced family saga is sure to spark conversations about relationships, memory, and change.
Explore More of 2022’s Best Books by Interest
- If you love literary fiction: Try Either/Or, Pure Colour, or Lapvona for inventive storytelling and rich prose.
- If you’re interested in family and relationships: Lucy by the Sea and French Braid offer heartfelt explorations of connection and change.
- For speculative and unconventional narratives: You've Lost a Lot of Blood and Night of the Living Rez bring new voices and perspectives to the forefront.
- If you want to escape with a page-turner: The Horsewoman and Dark Whisper deliver suspense and thrills.
- For sweeping sagas and historical intrigue: Horse and To Paradise bring the past vividly to life.
How to Choose the Right Book for You
With so many standout titles among the best books of 2022, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by choice. Here are a few tips to help you pick your next great read:
- Follow your mood: Looking for comfort? Try a warm family drama like Lucy by the Sea. Want to be challenged? Dive into an ambitious novel like To Paradise.
- Consider your favorite genres: Whether it’s historical fiction, literary experimentation, or page-turning suspense, focus on the styles you love most.
- Explore new voices: 2022 was a year of bold debuts and fresh perspectives. Don’t hesitate to pick up something outside your comfort zone, like Night of the Living Rez or You've Lost a Lot of Blood.
- Read reviews and sample chapters: Many ThriftBooks listings include reader reviews and previews to help you decide.
Find Your Next Favorite Among the Best Books of 2022
No matter your reading goals—whether you aim to keep up with the best selling books of 2022, discover hidden literary treasures, or simply lose yourself in a great story—this collection is your gateway to the year’s most essential reads. Start exploring and see why these titles captured hearts and imaginations worldwide. Happy reading!
