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Must-Read Books & Journals for 2026 ✨ Romance, Self-Care & Cozy Finds
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items A collection of my favorite books for 2026, from romance novels and ebooks to journals, coloring books, and cozy finds. Whether you’re reading to relax, escape, or stay inspired, these are the books I’ve enjoyed and keep going back to.
Sections
6
Digital Reads I Couldn’t Put Down (Ebooks)
Romance Books That Had Me Hooked (Physical Reads)
Journals for Self-Care, Reflection & Daily Writing
Kids’ Books & Fun Learning Picks
Relaxing Coloring Books for Stress Relief
Cozy & Random Book Finds I Loved
Digital Reads I Couldn’t Put Down (Ebooks)
These are some of my favorite ebooks that I’ve read when I just wanted something easy and convenient. Perfect for reading on my phone or tablet, especially when I don’t feel like carrying a physical book around.
This was one of those reads I picked up when I wanted something a little different, and it definitely stood out. It has a bold, slightly edgy vibe that kept me interested the whole time. I liked that it didn’t feel predictable, and it gave me somethi...
Dead Sexy by Linda Jaivin | eBook
I really enjoyed this one when I was in the mood for something soft but still emotional. It has that slow, meaningful kind of romance that builds over time instead of feeling rushed. I found myself getting attached to the characters more than I expec...
A Lady for a Duke|eBook
This felt more like an emotional, reflective kind of read for me. It’s not just about the story, but also about relationships and personal growth. I liked reading this when I wanted something that made me think a little more instead of just being ent...
The Unsinkable Greta James: A Novel|eBook
If you’re already into the series, this is one of those books that pulls you right back in. I liked how intense everything felt — there’s always something happening, so it never feels slow. It’s definitely one I’d read when I want something more dram...
The War of Two Queens (Special Edition) (Blood and Ash Series #4)|eBook
This one was honestly just fun to read. I liked how each story had its own vibe, even though they all share the same title idea. It felt creative and different from the usual books I read. I’d pick this up when I want something light and entertaining...
The Ice Cream Machine: 6 Deliciously Different Stories with the Same Exact Name!|eBook
This is one of those feel-good reads that I kept going back to. It has a mix of romance and personal growth, which I really liked. It didn’t feel too heavy, but it still had enough depth to keep me interested. I’d recommend this for when you want som...
Part of Your World|eBook
I liked this one because it felt very real and personal. It’s the kind of book where you feel like you’re just listening to someone tell their story. It has a mix of humor and real-life moments, which made it easy to keep reading. I usually go for bo...
Happy Go Lucky by Jimmy Chua | eBook | Barnes & Noble®
This was one of those books I read when I just wanted something funny and relatable. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, which I liked. It felt like a collection of real-life moments that are easy to connect with. I’d pick this when I want somethin...
Autobiography of a Fat Bride: True Tales of a Pretend Adulthood|eBook
This one had more depth than I expected. It mixes personal life, culture, and relationships in a way that kept me interested. I liked that it felt layered without being hard to follow. It’s a good choice when I want something that’s still engaging bu...
Olga Dies Dreaming: A Novel|eBook
This is one of those books I’d read when I want something fast-paced and a little more intense. It keeps things moving, so I never felt bored reading it. If I’m in the mood for something with more action and mystery, this is the kind of book I go for...
Framed in Death (In Death Series #61)|eBook
Romance Books That Had Me Hooked (Physical Reads)
These are the romance books I’ve personally enjoyed and kept thinking about after finishing. If you like love stories that pull you in and keep your attention, these are definitely worth checking out.
This is one of those darker romance reads I picked up when I wanted something a little more intense than the usual love story. It definitely leans into that edgy, emotional side, which kept me interested the whole time. I liked how it didn’t feel ove...
Game On (Into Darkness Series)
I like picking up books like this when I want something that feels more complete and immersive. Since it’s part of a series, it really pulls everything together, and I enjoyed seeing how the story develops over time. It has that mix of romance and a ...
The Seven Rings: The Lost Bride Trilogy, Book 3 by Nora Roberts, Hardcover
This is definitely on the darker side of romance, and I went into it knowing that. It has that intense, slightly obsessive dynamic that’s not for every mood, but when I’m in the mood for something bold, it works. It kept my attention because of how d...
Now You're Mine: Dark Stalker Romance
This felt like one of those more emotional, character-driven reads. I liked how it focused on personal growth alongside the relationships, which made it feel more realistic. It’s not just about romance — it’s about life changes too, which made it mor...
Great Big Beautiful Life (Reese's Book Club)|BN Exclusive
This one felt more relaxed and easy to get into. I liked reading it when I didn’t want anything too heavy or complicated. It has that casual, story-driven feel that makes it easy to pick up and continue without overthinking it. It’s a good choice whe...
Tourist Season
I picked this up because I already like this author’s style, and it didn’t disappoint. It has that mix of humor and romance that keeps things light but still interesting. I liked that it didn’t feel overly serious, which made it a good, easy read for...
Problematic Summer Romance (Not in Love, #2) by Ali Hazelwood
This one felt more emotional to me compared to some lighter romances. It focuses a lot on connection and memories, which made it feel more personal while reading. I found myself getting more invested in the characters as the story went on. I’d read t...
Say You'll Remember Me|BN Exclusive
This was one of the lighter, more fun reads for me. It has that playful energy that makes it easy to get through without feeling heavy. I liked picking this up when I just wanted something entertaining and easy to follow. It’s one of those books that...
Flirting Lessons|Paperback
I liked this one because it felt a bit different from typical romance books. It has a mix of everyday life and relationships, which made it feel more relatable. It’s not overly dramatic, but it still keeps your attention. I’d read this when I want so...
Overdue: A Novel by Stephanie Perkins, Hardcover
Journals for Self-Care, Reflection & Daily Writing
I love journaling, and these are some of the journals I’ve used or would recommend for staying consistent. Whether it’s for self-reflection, goal setting, or just getting your thoughts out, these make it easier to stay in the habit.
I started using a self-care planner when I realized I needed a way to actually stay consistent with taking care of myself, not just thinking about it. I like having everything in one place — whether it’s tracking how I feel, setting small goals, or j...
Self-care planner daily wellness journal
This is something I reach for when I want to stay more organized with my money. I like writing things down instead of just keeping everything in my head because it helps me actually see where everything is going. It makes budgeting feel less stressfu...
Monthly Budget Planner Notebook
I didn’t realize how useful this would be until I actually started using one. Instead of constantly resetting passwords or trying to remember everything, I just keep it all in one place. It saves me a lot of time and frustration, especially when I’m ...
Internet Password Log Book Organizer
I like using this when I’m trying to stay consistent with workouts. Writing things down helps me stay accountable, even on days when I don’t feel like doing much. It also helps me see progress over time, which keeps me motivated to keep going.
Fitness Workout Schedule: Planner Log Book
This one feels a bit more personal compared to regular journals. I like the idea of combining memories with writing, so it doesn’t just feel like notes — it actually feels like something I can look back on. It’s something I’d use when I want to docum...
MILK Books Custom Photo Journal
I like journals like this because they just make me want to write more. The design feels calm and simple, which makes it easier to sit down and actually use it. I usually use something like this for everyday thoughts or journaling without overthinkin...
Floral Hardcover Lined Journal Notebook
This is one of those journals I’d pick just because I like how it looks. It makes the whole journaling experience feel a bit more personal and enjoyable. I tend to use journals like this when I want something that feels a little more “me” and less pl...
Pink Aesthetic Diary Journal Notebook
I like using journals like this when I want something that feels a bit more put together and structured. It gives a more polished look, which I actually find motivating when I’m writing goals or planning things out. It feels a bit more intentional co...
Black and Gold Elegant Journal Notebook
Kids’ Books & Fun Learning Picks
These are great books for kids that are both fun and engaging. Whether it’s for learning, creativity, or just keeping them entertained, these are solid picks.
This is one of those books that’s good to have on hand when kids need something to stay occupied. I like that it usually has a mix of activities instead of just one thing, so it doesn’t get boring quickly. It’s something I’d use for keeping kids busy...
UlTIMATE KIDS ZONE: Activity Book
This is a fun one, especially for kids who are into trucks or vehicles. I like how simple it is to use — just pick it up and start coloring. It’s a good option when you want something easy that still keeps them interested.
Megatrucks: Coloring Book
I like books like this because they’re both fun and calming for kids. The animal theme makes it a bit more engaging, and it’s something they can spend time on without getting bored too quickly. It’s also a nice way to keep things creative.
Animal lovers: Coloring Book
This is a good option for early learning. I like that it helps with basic skills like tracing and letters without feeling too serious or stressful. It’s something I’d use for helping kids practice while still keeping it fun.
Hadley ABC Tracing Books for Kids 3-5
This is one of those books I like when I want kids to stay busy but also think a little. It has a mix of puzzles and activities, so it doesn’t feel repetitive. I’ve noticed books like this keep attention longer because there’s always something new to...
Brain Games Kids - Amazon.com
I like this for younger kids who are just starting to learn how to write. It keeps things simple and structured without feeling overwhelming. It’s something I’d use for practice without making it feel like schoolwork.
My First Learn-to-Write Workbook: Pen Control
This is one of those interactive books that keeps kids engaged for longer than expected. I like how it turns reading into a game, which makes it more fun and less like a task.
I Spy Fun House: Picture Riddles Book
This is a really simple but useful book for building early vocabulary. I like that it’s easy to go through and doesn’t require too much time or effort at once.
First 100 Words: A Padded Board Book
This is something I’d use when I want something mess-free but still creative. It’s easy for younger kids to use and keeps them entertained without needing too much supervision.
Amazon.com: Dot Markers Activity Book
I like this for helping kids build basic skills in a fun way. It doesn’t feel too serious, but it still helps with coordination and learning.
Scissor Skills Preschool Activity Book
Relaxing Coloring Books for Stress Relief
These are the coloring books I like for unwinding and relaxing. They’re perfect for when I want a break from screens and just want to do something calm and creative.
This is one of those coloring books I’d pick when I want something calming and a little more meaningful. The designs feel more intentional, and it’s something I can sit with and actually enjoy instead of rushing through.
She Blooms: Relaxing Self-Love Coloring Book
I like using mandala books when I want something repetitive and relaxing. There’s something about the patterns that makes it easier to just focus and unwind without thinking too much.
Mandala Coloring Book
These are honestly a basic for me when it comes to coloring. They’re easy to use, the colors show up well, and I don’t have to think too much about it. It’s one of those things I always keep around.
Crayola: Colored Pencils
This is one I’d use when I just want to slow down and relax. The designs aren’t too overwhelming, so it’s easy to sit and color without overthinking it.
Calm the Chaos: Stress-Relief Coloring Book
I like this type of book when I want something simple and repetitive. It helps me zone out a bit and just focus on coloring.
Beautiful Patterns Adult Coloring Book
This is nice when I want something a little more uplifting while I’m coloring. It adds a bit of meaning instead of just patterns.
Inspirational Coloring Book: 50 Motivational Quotes
I like this because it mixes creativity with something a bit more detailed. It keeps me focused longer compared to simpler designs.
Adult Coloring Book: Stress Relief Animals
This is what I’d pick when I don’t want anything too detailed. It’s easier to complete and still relaxing without needing too much focus.
Large Print Color By Number - Amazon.com
I like using these when I want more precision compared to colored pencils. They make the designs look cleaner and more detailed.
Crayola Classic Thin Line Marker Set, 8-Colors - Walmart.com
These are fun to use when I want to add a bit more color variation or shine. It makes coloring feel a bit more creative.
Gel Pens For Coloring - Amazon.com
Cozy & Random Book Finds I Loved
These are some random books I came across that I actually ended up enjoying. A mix of different styles and topics, but all worth checking out.
This one stood out to me because it’s more interactive than a regular book. I liked that it gives you choices while reading, which makes it feel a bit more engaging. It’s something I’d pick when I want a different kind of reading experience.
The Dinner Party: A Pick Your Poison Adventure
This is one of those books I like having as a staple. Whether it’s for reading regularly or just having something to go back to when needed, it feels more like something personal than just a regular book. What are we without the word of God?
King James Bible
I liked this one because it pulled me in pretty quickly. It has a mix of storytelling and ideas that keep things interesting, so it never felt slow to me. It’s something I’d read when I want to stay fully engaged in the story.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir, Paperback
This felt like one of those more immersive reads where you really get into the world of the story. I liked how it builds over time and keeps you curious about what’s going to happen next.
Starside (Deluxe Limited Edition) (B&N Exclusive Edition) by Alex Aster, ...
This is something I’d use when I want something light and a bit interactive. It’s not a heavy read, but it’s fun and different, especially around that Valentine’s vibe.
Heart Hunt: Valentine's Puzzle Book
A WLW love story. This is more of a light, easy read for me. I like picking up books like this when I don’t want anything too heavy but still want a story I can enjoy and follow without too much effort.
The Princess And The Pretender - Free Novel by Nessa Thorne
This is one of those books that made me stop and think a bit more while reading. It has a deeper message about life and choices, which I really liked. I’d pick this when I want something meaningful but still easy to follow.
The Midnight Library (GMA Book Club Pick)
I like reading this when I want to get back on track with routines. It breaks things down in a way that feels manageable instead of overwhelming. It’s something I’d go back to more than once.
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break ...
This is one of those emotional reads that really pulls you in. I remember getting more attached to the story than I expected. It’s something I’d read when I’m ready for something a bit heavier.
It Ends with Us: A Novel by Colleen Hoover
This is one of those books I pick up when I want something more thought-provoking. It’s not something I read straight through, but more something I go back to in parts.
The 48 Laws of Power: Greene, Robert - Amazon.com