I read 30-50 books a year across a variety of genres, and only give a 5 star rating to a few. These are my favorites - the ones I still think about, discuss, and recommend.
My favorite read of 2025 so far.
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
Who were you before you were a parent? LOVED this exploration of the seasons of life.
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Atmospheric.
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
This checked the box for so many personal favorites: Maine. Female-driven. House as character. Snippets of history.
The Cliffs by J. Courtney Sullivan
Set in Houston in the early 80s, this female-driven story is easily my favorite from Taylor Jenkins Reid. Great characters, perfect pacing, and a strong sense of place/era.
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Heartbreakingly beautiful, a slow burn tale with a bit of mystery woven in. Set on a remote island research station amid a rapidly changing climate.
Wild Dark Shore: A Novel
A polarizing pick – this one was definitely love it or hate it. I adored this hazy summer tale of a young woman in the Hamptons. Shades of Gatsby, The House of Mirth, and the Talented Mr. Ripley.
The Guest: A Novel
This one won the Pulitzer for a reason. David Copperfield reimagined in Appalachia, with Barbara Kingsolver's gorgeous writing, and characters that will stay with you long after the final page.
Demon Copperhead: A Novel
So much more than a “prison novel,” this is the story of a serial killer on death row, told through the eyes of the women in his life, including his mother and his victims.
Notes on an Execution: A Novel
Hands down my favorite book of 2023, and one I've recommended and gifted so many times. A unusual mix of relationships (friendships, lovers, and business partners) and the gaming world.
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow: A novel
In this epistolary novel, we get to know Sybil, a retired attorney, through a series of letters written and received. So unique and beautiful.
