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Books Worth Your Time
72
items I’m excited to share a selection of books that I’ve loved and can’t stop thinking about. This list features a diverse group of authors, spanning a variety of genres, voices, and perspectives. Whether you’re drawn to dark fantasy, twisty thrillers, he...
These are affiliate links, so I do get a small commission when you purchase an item off of my list. Thank you! I appreciate you!
These are affiliate links, so I do get a small commission when you purchase an item off of my list. Thank you! I appreciate you!
Sections
13
My favorites
African American Writers
Light Reading, Romance, Love Stories
Kindle
V.E. Schwab
Mystery & Murder
My favorites
I love to read and these definitely left a lasting impression. I recommend them all the time to people!
A gripping, twisty thriller that pulls you into a small town full of secrets, suspense, and danger. Perfect for fans of dark mysteries and stories that keep you guessing until the very last page.
Wild Dark Shore (Reese's Book Club Pick)|Hardcover
A poignant, character-driven story about family, resilience, and the unexpected ways life tests us. Wally Lamb’s masterful storytelling keeps you invested in every twist and turn.
The River Is Waiting (Oprah's Book Club)|Hardcover
ATE THIS UP! A fast-paced, gripping story full of secrets, twists, and unforgettable characters. Perfect for fans of suspenseful, addictive reads that keep you turning pages late into the night.
The Favorites: A Novel
Fitting for the time we're in. A dark, gripping tale of mystery, magic, and intrigue. Perfect for fans of suspenseful fantasy with high stakes and unforgettable characters.
Blood Over Bright Haven: A Novel|Paperback
A journey to self-discovery of epic proportions, Circe is a retelling from the queen of mythology herself: Madeline Miller. A lyrical, action-packed dive into the origin of an unforgettable and unparalleled woman, Circe cements herself in the pantheo...
Circe|Paperback
One of the most acclaimed books of our time: an unforgettable memoir about a young woman who, kept out of school, leaves her survivalist family and goes on to earn a PhD from Cambridge University
Educated: A Memoir|Hardcover
5/5 stars for me!
Romance, mystery, and magic: a trifecta of addictive storytelling and The Unmaking of June Farrow has it all. The second adult novel of a fixture on the YA scene, this is layered deep with secrets that will keep you hooked from the start.
Romance, mystery, and magic: a trifecta of addictive storytelling and The Unmaking of June Farrow has it all. The second adult novel of a fixture on the YA scene, this is layered deep with secrets that will keep you hooked from the start.
The Unmaking of June Farrow: A Novel|Hardcover
“Life, like a poem, is a series of choices.” In her memoir You Could Make This Place Beautiful, poet Maggie Smith explores the disintegration of her marriage and her renewed commitment to herself. The book begins with one woman’s personal heartbreak,...
You Could Make This Place Beautiful|Paperback
African American Writers
These have been some of my favorite books by African American writers. I just started tracking my reading in 2025, so stay tuned for new additions!
My favorite read of 2025! A brilliantly crafted, immersive fantasy with unforgettable characters, a unique magic system, and twists that keep you hooked. Thought-provoking, intense, and impossible to put down.
The Broken Earth Trilogy: The Fifth Season, The Obelisk Gate, The Stone Sky|Paperback
Another amazing African American author! A fast-paced, magical adventure that blends modern-day fantasy with rich history and mythology. Tracy Deonn crafts unforgettable characters and a story full of twists, action, and heart — perfect for fans of e...
The Legendborn Cycle (Boxed Set) - Tracy Deonn
An absolute must read for everyone. Octavia Butler is incredible. A time travel narrative is an enthralling and devastating deep dive into the horrors of slavery and the ripples that still rock the modern world and beyond.
Kindred|Paperback
This is set in 2024, but written in 1993. It's mind blowing how accurate it is.
This is a haunting look at a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by climate and economic catastrophes. Thought-provoking and brilliantly written, Parable of the Sower is a warning about what the future of Earth could look like if climate change is not tak...
This is a haunting look at a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by climate and economic catastrophes. Thought-provoking and brilliantly written, Parable of the Sower is a warning about what the future of Earth could look like if climate change is not tak...
Parable of the Sower|Paperback
The acclaimed graphic novel adaptation of Octavia E. Butler’s groundbreaking dystopian novel, Parable of the Sower, is a don't-miss classic that resonates today more than ever. As The Washington Post noted: "A 1993 dystopian novel imagined the world ...
Parable of the Sower: A Graphic Novel Adaptation (Hugo Award Winner)|Paperback
the thrilling sequel to The Parable of the Sower—a cautionary novel ahead of its time, perfect for fans of The Broken Earth trilogy (ALSO RECOMMENDED IN THIS LIST!!)
Parable of the Talents|Paperback
This gripping graphic novel adaptation of Octavia E. Butler’s groundbreaking dystopian novel stands beside the acclaimed previous graphic novel adaptations, Kindred, a #1 New York Times bestseller, and Parable of the Sower, winner of the Hugo Award
Parable of the Talents: A Graphic Novel Adaptation|Hardcover
This was an incredible story. I personally liked reading it more than I enjoyed the audio, but I did both!
A powerful story of family, home and freedom. Percival Everett has flipped the script on an American classic as Huck Finn steps to the side and Jim — James — takes center stage.
A powerful story of family, home and freedom. Percival Everett has flipped the script on an American classic as Huck Finn steps to the side and Jim — James — takes center stage.
James (2024 B&N Book of the Year) (Pulitzer Prize Winner) (National Book Award Winner)|Hardcover
Light Reading, Romance, Love Stories
I love a love story and romance book, especially for a pallet cleanser after a long series. They usually keep me reading versus falling into a slump after a great series. These were some of my favorites.
A heartfelt, uplifting read about finding joy, self-discovery, and embracing the little things that truly matter. Perfect for anyone looking for a feel-good, inspiring story.
If It Makes You Happy by Julie Olivia, Paperback
A captivating, emotionally rich story that explores love, identity, and the delicate complexities of human connection. Taylor Jenkins Reid delivers her signature heartfelt storytelling that stays with you long after the last page.
Atmosphere: A Love Story (GMA Book Club Pick)|Hardcover
I loved this. It's perfect for a pick me up or a pallet cleanser. Great little romance novel.
First-Time Caller|Paperback
One of my favorite 2025 reads. I couldn't put this down.
Ashley Poston went from ghosts and ghostwriters in her adult debut The Dead Romantics to time travel and beautiful matters of the heart. There’s no time like the past, present, or future to fall in love.
Ashley Poston went from ghosts and ghostwriters in her adult debut The Dead Romantics to time travel and beautiful matters of the heart. There’s no time like the past, present, or future to fall in love.
The Seven Year Slip|Paperback
It’s such a cliché, it almost makes her heart implode: older man and younger woman; successful biotech guy and struggling grad student; brother’s best friend and the girl he never even knew existed. As Conor loves to remind her, the power dynamic is ...
Problematic Summer Romance|Hardcover
I absolutely loved this five star read.
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Fourth Wing comes a new contemporary romance about the summer a celebrated dancer returns home and unearths years of family secrets and deep regrets with the Coast Guard rescue swimmer she never forgot...
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Fourth Wing comes a new contemporary romance about the summer a celebrated dancer returns home and unearths years of family secrets and deep regrets with the Coast Guard rescue swimmer she never forgot...
Variation: A Novel|Paperback
Gosh I loved this! It was a quick read, but had me gripped from the start.
One Golden Summer|Paperback
Exploring deep and necessary themes with humor and incisiveness, this romantic comedy from the bestselling author of Part of Your World will bring joy to your day. With a warmth of narrative voice, it's a breezy read full of meaning.
Yours Truly|Paperback
Kindle
My favorite kindle accessories!
I love this kindle case! It provides a cover for the face if I'm throwing it in my bag, but pops off easily if I want to use my popsocket.
Magnetic Case for 7'' Kindle Paperwhite 12th Gen
I swear to you, I use this every single day. It was a christmas gift and I've wanted it for several years. Someone finally got it for me and I love it.
Adjustable Tablet Pillow Stand w/Snack Bowl
This with the kindle lap stand and you're set for the best reading experience of your life!
Remote Control Page Turner for Kindle & Kobo
I couldn't live without my kindle. I was a physical book girly for years, but now I prefer my kindle. I still go back and forth, but if I can get it via my kindle I'm going to! Mine is pink and I love her!
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 16GB 7" Glare-Free
Slow Burn Clear Matte Book Sticker, Romance Reader Kindle Sticker
Slow Burn Clear Matte Book Sticker, Romance Reader Kindle Sticker
The reader tarot card skeleton sticker, Kindle bookish sticker, Book lover gift, Bookish merch, Smut Reader, reading lover, e reader decal
The reader tarot card skeleton sticker, Kindle bookish sticker, Book lover gift, Bookish merch, Smut Reader, reading lover, e reader decal
V.E. Schwab
One of my favorite writers. I love everything she does.
V.E. is the author of more than 25 books, spanning MG, YA, and Adult, though she’s never been keen on labeling stories for a certain audience. Plenty of young readers like Vicious, and plenty of older ones like Cassidy Blake, and she believes the bes...
Vampires! But better. A dark, atmospheric story full of suspense, secrets, and unforgettable characters. Perfect for fans of haunting, twisty tales that linger long after the last page.
Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil|Hardcover
Tore through this. VE Schwab is just incredible. A dazzling, fast-paced fantasy full of adventure, magic, and unforgettable characters. V.E. Schwab weaves multiple Londons, high stakes, and thrilling twists that make this series impossible to put dow...
Shades of Magic Collector's Editions Boxed Set: A Darker Shade of Magic, A Gathering of Shadows, and A Conjuring of Light|Hardcover
This is the new series, but a follow up/interconnected story to VE Schwab's Shades of Magic series. It has all your favorite characters, plus some new, badass, female characters added.
The Fragile Threads of Power (B&N Exclusive Edition)
One of my favorite books.
With her signature wit and deliciously wicked imagination, V. E. Schwab is one author we just can’t get enough of. In The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, prepare to be mesmerized by Addie — our unflappable heroine, cursed to be forgotten by everyone s...
With her signature wit and deliciously wicked imagination, V. E. Schwab is one author we just can’t get enough of. In The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, prepare to be mesmerized by Addie — our unflappable heroine, cursed to be forgotten by everyone s...
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue|Hardcover
Darkly eerie, and utterly evocative, Gallant is a gothic tale of a place where shadows meet light and death meets life. When Olivia Prior is summoned to her family’s home after a lifetime spent in an orphanage, she’s determined to understand what dro...
Gallant|Paperback
In the Villains series (Vicious, Vengeful) V. E. Schwab brings to life a gritty comic-book-style world in vivid prose: a world where gaining superpowers doesn't automatically lead to heroism, and a time when allegiances are called into question. "A d...
Villains Boxed Set: Vicious, Vengeful|Paperback
Pre-order your signed copy!! The triumphant conclusion to the Villains series!
Eli Ever. Victor Vale. Two men, first best friends, then mortal enemies, each destined to be the other’s shadow. One left standing--but the game isn't over yet Against all the years–and the odds—a group of allies and arch rivals meet on a chess board...
Eli Ever. Victor Vale. Two men, first best friends, then mortal enemies, each destined to be the other’s shadow. One left standing--but the game isn't over yet Against all the years–and the odds—a group of allies and arch rivals meet on a chess board...
Victorious (Signed Book)|Signed Book
Mystery & Murder
If you love twisty plots, unreliable narrators, and stories that keep you guessing until the very last page, this list is for you. These mystery and murder books are the ones I couldn’t put down—full of suspense, shocking reveals, and characters you ...
When infamous chef, restaurateur, and television personality Maria Capello's husband died, the media circus was intense…and quick to cast the blame. Whispers claimed Maria murdered her husband to build her culinary empire on his bones, and that there...
Totally enjoyed this and demolished it in no time.
Totally enjoyed this and demolished it in no time.
The Dead Husband Cookbook|Hardcover
A riveting whodunit steeped in psychological suspense, Local Woman Missing is the story of a series of disappearances told by a master of the genre. Get comfortable, you will burn through these pages.
Local Woman Missing|Hardcover
I gave this 4.5 stars!
A pulse-pounding psychological thriller about a serial killer narrated by those closest to him: his 13-year-old daughter, his girlfriend—and the one victim he has spared
A pulse-pounding psychological thriller about a serial killer narrated by those closest to him: his 13-year-old daughter, his girlfriend—and the one victim he has spared
The Quiet Tenant|Paperback
Romantasy
Romantasy is one of my favorite genres—there’s just something about a sweeping fantasy world mixed with an irresistible love story. This list includes the romantasy books that completely pulled me in, from magical kingdoms to dangerous quests and rom...
Unexpected and action-packed, this romantasy weaves an accessible magic system, a grounded world and a high seas adventure into one addictive package.
Metal Slinger: Fire & Metal: Book One|Hardcover
Chemistry is off-the-charts in this emotionally rich romantasy adventure that slowly unfolds, wielding magic, intrigue and pulse-pounding action. With a masterfully woven tension and yearning, this unconventional love story is addictive from the star...
Warrior Princess Assassin (Deluxe Limited Edition): A Novel (B&N Exclusive Edition)|BN Exclusive
In a fairytale that’ll leave you in a trance, Rachel Gillig (One Dark Window) weaves together romance, magic and folklore into one dazzling story. This is perfect for fans of Naomi Novik and Ava Reid.
The Knight and the Moth|Hardcover
Yes yes yes yes!
Dire Bound|Hardcover
Bryce Quinlan had the perfect life-working hard all day and partying all night-until a demon murdered her closest friends, leaving her bereft, wounded, and alone. When the accused is behind bars but the crimes start up again, Bryce finds herself at t...
Crescent City Hardcover Box Set|Hardcover
This seriously kicked off my major obsession with reading. I have always read but only here and there. These turned the tide for me.
A Court of Thorns and Roses Hardcover Box Set|Hardcover
LOVED THIS SERIES!
In a land without magic, an assassin is summoned to the castle. She has no love for the vicious king who rules from his throne of glass, but she has not come to kill him. She has come to win her freedom. If she defeats twenty-three murderers, thieves...
In a land without magic, an assassin is summoned to the castle. She has no love for the vicious king who rules from his throne of glass, but she has not come to kill him. She has come to win her freedom. If she defeats twenty-three murderers, thieves...
Throne of Glass Hardcover Box Set|Hardcover
Enjoyed this a lot! A dark, gripping fantasy packed with danger, betrayal, and high emotional stakes. Perfect for readers who love intense worlds, morally complex characters, and stories that don’t pull their punches.
We Who Will Die: A Novel|Hardcover
A tense, twisty thriller full of secrets, suspense, and unforgettable characters. Perfect for readers who love dark, gripping stories.
One Dark Window|Paperback
A gripping, suspense-filled thriller with dark secrets, clever twists, and complex characters. Perfect for fans of high-stakes mysteries that keep you turning pages late into the night.
Two Twisted Crowns|Paperback
Dark Romance
If you like your romance a little darker, this list is for you. These books explore intense relationships, morally gray characters, and stories filled with tension, obsession, and high-stakes emotions. They’re not always pretty—but they’re completely...
Dark academia… hot teacher… yes please!
Nocticadia (Standard Edition)|Hardcover
Carissa Broadbent
I loved these books and this is the recommended reading order!
The Crowns of Nyaxia Series
The War of Lost Hearts Series
BOOK 1 IN THE CROWNS OF NYAXIA SERIES
For humans and vampires, the rules of survival are the same: never trust, never yield, and always – always – guard your heart.
For humans and vampires, the rules of survival are the same: never trust, never yield, and always – always – guard your heart.
The Serpent and the Wings of Night: Book 1 of the Nightborn Duet (Crowns of Nyaxia Series #1)|Hardcover
This is a standalone novella that introduces some characters who play an important role in The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King.
Six roses. Six vials of blood. Six visits to a vampire who could be her salvation… or her damnation.
Six roses. Six vials of blood. Six visits to a vampire who could be her salvation… or her damnation.
Six Scorched Roses: A Crowns of Nyaxia Short Novel|Hardcover
This is the second book in the main Crows of Nyaxia series and the last book in the Nightborn Duet.
Love is a sacrifice at the altar of power.
Love is a sacrifice at the altar of power.
The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King: Book 2 of the Nightborn Duet (Crowns of Nyaxia Series #2)|Hardcover
This is a standalone full-length novel that takes place roughly at the same time as The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King in the overall timeline. The characters will turn up again later in the main Crowns of Nyaxia series.
She was commanded to kill him with a single strike to the heart. She didn’t expect her own to betray her.
She was commanded to kill him with a single strike to the heart. She didn’t expect her own to betray her.
Slaying the Vampire Conqueror (B&N Exclusive Edition) (Crowns of Nyaxia Series)|BN Exclusive
The Shadowborn Duet, Book One (Crowns of Nyaxia Series #3)
A story of light vs. dark, wrong vs. right. Mische's choice should be simple, but nothing is as it seems in a world of vengeful gods, love and treachery.
A story of light vs. dark, wrong vs. right. Mische's choice should be simple, but nothing is as it seems in a world of vengeful gods, love and treachery.
The Songbird and the Heart of Stone: The Shadowborn Duet, Book One (Crowns of Nyaxia Series #3)|Hardcover
The Shadowborn Duet, Book Two (Crowns of Nyaxia Series #4)
Mische made the ultimate sacrifice to save those she loves – and plunged the world into an eternal night. Now, imprisoned by the gods and obsessed with revenge, Asar is desperate to find her again.
Mische made the ultimate sacrifice to save those she loves – and plunged the world into an eternal night. Now, imprisoned by the gods and obsessed with revenge, Asar is desperate to find her again.
The Fallen and the Kiss of Dusk: The Shadowborn Duet, Book Two (Crowns of Nyaxia Series #4)|Hardcover
The Lion & the Deathless Dark: The Bloodborn Duet, Book One (#5 in Crowns of Nyaxia series)
Some blood tastes like vengeance. Some blood tastes like grief. Some blood tastes like nothing at all.
Some blood tastes like vengeance. Some blood tastes like grief. Some blood tastes like nothing at all.
The Lion & the Deathless Dark: The Bloodborn Duet, Book One (B&N Exclusive Edition)|BN Exclusive
This is a downloadable prequel novella for The War of Lost Hearts series. This focuses on Maxantarius.
Ashen Son | Carissa Broadbent
One of my top reads in 2025.
A former slave fighting for justice. A reclusive warrior who no longer believes it exists. And a dark magic that will entangle their fates....fans of romantic fantasy will devour this tale from #1 New York Times bestselling author Carissa Broadbent.
A former slave fighting for justice. A reclusive warrior who no longer believes it exists. And a dark magic that will entangle their fates....fans of romantic fantasy will devour this tale from #1 New York Times bestselling author Carissa Broadbent.
Daughter of No Worlds (War of Lost Hearts #1)|Hardcover
This is the 2nd book in the series and they're all amazing. Worth the read!
No war can be fought with clean hands. Not even the ones waged for the right reasons. Not even the ones you win.
No war can be fought with clean hands. Not even the ones waged for the right reasons. Not even the ones you win.
Children of Fallen Gods (War of Lost Hearts #2)|Hardcover
The breathtaking finale is here. Carissa Broadbent’s War of Lost Hearts trilogy concludes in this swirling story of impossible choices and a doomed romance.
Mother of Death and Dawn|Hardcover
Contemporary Fiction
Contemporary fiction has a way of telling the most relatable, emotional, and unforgettable stories. This list features books set in the modern world that explore relationships, personal growth, and the complexities of everyday life.
5/5 stars!
INCREDIBLE. Sometimes a short synopsis is all you need: A detective octopus helps a grieving aquarium employee solve the mystery of her missing son. It’s certainly unique in vessel, but the themes of coping, recovering, and moving forward resonate wh...
This was also an amazing audio book.
INCREDIBLE. Sometimes a short synopsis is all you need: A detective octopus helps a grieving aquarium employee solve the mystery of her missing son. It’s certainly unique in vessel, but the themes of coping, recovering, and moving forward resonate wh...
This was also an amazing audio book.
Remarkably Bright Creatures|Paperback
Really enjoyed this.
The author of the acclaimed Notes on Your Sudden Disappearance (one of our former Fiction Monthly Picks) cordially invites us to the Cornwell Inn. With a tender heart and a wry sense of humor, this is a thoughtful gem of a story.
The author of the acclaimed Notes on Your Sudden Disappearance (one of our former Fiction Monthly Picks) cordially invites us to the Cornwell Inn. With a tender heart and a wry sense of humor, this is a thoughtful gem of a story.
The Wedding People: A Novel|Paperback
Historical Fiction
Historical fiction brings the past to life through unforgettable stories and characters. These books transport you to different eras, blending real history with powerful storytelling you won’t want to put down.
Truly a story that will stick with you. Incredibly moving.
The unforgettable, heartbreaking story of the unlikely friendship between a wealthy boy and the son of his father’s servant, caught in the tragic sweep of history, The Kite Runner transports readers to Afghanistan at a tense and crucial moment of cha...
The unforgettable, heartbreaking story of the unlikely friendship between a wealthy boy and the son of his father’s servant, caught in the tragic sweep of history, The Kite Runner transports readers to Afghanistan at a tense and crucial moment of cha...
The Kite Runner (10th Anniversary Edition)|Paperback
Glamorous enough to enchant any reader, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is a glimpse into the life of a Hollywood starlet better known for her romantic endeavors off the screen. At the heart of this scandalous novel is the bond between two lovers f...
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo|Paperback
This was an incredible story.
Fan of Charles Dickens and David Copperfield? Pick this up. Not a fan of Charles Dickens but believe in the power of fiction to show us the truth about the world we live in? Pick this up. Love to be pulled through a great story by an unforgettable na...
Fan of Charles Dickens and David Copperfield? Pick this up. Not a fan of Charles Dickens but believe in the power of fiction to show us the truth about the world we live in? Pick this up. Love to be pulled through a great story by an unforgettable na...
Demon Copperhead (Pulitzer Prize Winner)|Paperback
All’s fair in love and chemistry. It’s 1960s California and there are certain things that women just don’t do. When scientist Elizabeth Zott finds herself the host of a television cooking show, she kicks off a revolution that does more than just chal...
Lessons in Chemistry (B&N Exclusive Edition)|Hardcover
Worth the hype!
Broken Country (Reese's Book Club)
Science Fiction
Science fiction is where imagination meets possibility. This list features sci-fi books that explore futuristic worlds, advanced technology, and big “what if” questions that keep you thinking long after you finish the last page.
Jason is not having a good day. Or maybe it’s the best day ever. In this dark and twisty science fiction thriller, reality may be blurred, but the takeaways never are. Wake yourself up in a surprisingly real and really surprising tale of missed chanc...
Dark Matter: A Novel by Blake Crouch, Paperback
Worth all the hype!
The only hope for humanity rests with Dr. Ryland Grace — if only he could remember his mission. Andy Weir, the bestselling author of The Martian, delivers another perfect science-based thriller with Project Hail Mary, a tale of impending catastrophe,...
The only hope for humanity rests with Dr. Ryland Grace — if only he could remember his mission. Andy Weir, the bestselling author of The Martian, delivers another perfect science-based thriller with Project Hail Mary, a tale of impending catastrophe,...
Project Hail Mary|Paperback
Grief/Loss
When you're looking for a lifeline.
I love this book so deeply. I buy it for anyone I know who's going through the profound loss of a friend, family member or pet. The elegantly interlocked tales of loss, survival, and fierce rebirth center are the basis of this book. Told with gracefu...
The Faithful Gardener: A Wise Tale