The twists and turns of these 30 Texas novels, nonfiction narratives, and other works published between January 2010 and December 2019 reveal undercurrents that run deep through our Lone Star State—a whole decade’s worth. All of these authors have significant Texas ties: They were born here, raised here, write here now, or had significant parts of their lives shaped by the state’s traditions and history.
To deliver this inclusive roundup, we sought help from the Lone Star State’s literati. Our informal survey turned up celebrated gems—and some surprises. You’ll find multiple entries from big cities like Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, and El Paso. But outstanding Texas authors also inhabit little towns like Utopia, tucked deep in the Texas Hill Country, and Groves, in Southeast Texas. Three of the darkest Texas narratives here made other lists of the nation’s best true crime stories: Bloodlines, Midnight in Mexico, and The Midnight Assassin.
Feel free to use this as your boilerplate request to Santa, or as an investment strategy to support icons of Lone Star State literature.
