2012 has seen a lot of wonderful novels, many of them by well-established authors. But there have also been quite a few break-through successes for brand-new authors. Many of the most popular and well-reviewed books of the year have been debut novels from first-time authors or authors who had only published short stories or memoirs previous to their novelistic success. Here’s hoping the years to come bring more great novels from these rising stars!

Torres, Justin.  We the Animals

Klaussmann, Liza.  Tigers in Red Weather

Ivey, Eowyn.  The Snow Child

Coplin, Amanda.  The Orchardist

Harbach, Chad.  The Art of Fielding

Rogan, Charlotte.  The Lifeboat

Pavone, Chris.  The Expats

Stedman, M. L.  The Light Between Oceans

Powers, Kevin.  The Yellow Birds