A year of reading... Here are some of my absolute favorites!

Looking back on a year of reading is always an experience. I am a very disorganized reader. I read / listen on many apps, I often pick up print books at the airport or my local bookstore, and I do not have a Goodreads (ack!). It is a bit of detective work and a lot of reminiscing. Here are some of my favorites for 2025:

📚Non-fiction, General:

Land Power by Michael Albertus

How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

The first book (Land Power) was by an excellent read about land rights and how their structure determines the structure of power and society as a whole. There are some great case studies from different countries and how these power structures have been reshaped over the years with policy changes. I listened to this one, and it was like a very informative, pleasantly narrated podcast.

The second book in the general non-fiction section that I found compelling this year (How to Win Friends and Influence People) was a recommendation by a colleague from work, and I was skeptical at first, but I really enjoyed it! The title says it all. For introverts, like me, it is a helpful read (or listen, which is what I did) to learn how to pitch your ideas (at work, at school, in your personal life).

📚Non-fiction, Writing Craft:

Structuring Your Novel by K.M. Weiland

Next Level Plot Structure by K.M. Weiland

It was a year of learning (by far my most non-fiction books read), and I am making a special category for K.M. Weiland's books (the two that I read this year, here and here). They are both a masterclass in structuring your novel and extends beyond the basics. I have mentioned her podcast before, and I will do it again. If you are a writer, K.M. Weiland provides impeccable resources!

📚Fiction, Thriller:

Not a Happy Family by Shari Lapena (link here)

She Didn't See it Coming by Shari Lapena (link here)

I joined a book club this year (or I was invited by a very lovely neighbor) and I am just thrilled to be a part of it. It has expanded my reading horizons, and this year I think I have found a new favorite Thriller author: Shari Lapena. I loved both novels and was kept guessing most of each book, and was satisfied by the endings (a must!).

📚Fiction, Fantasy:

The Fires of Heaven by Robert Jordan

Lord of Chaos by Robert Jordan

A Crown of Swords by Robert Jordan

The Path of Daggers by Robert Jordan

Winter's Heart by Robert Jordan (Books 5 - 9 of Wheel of Time Series)

My husband and I have been reading the Wheel of Time Series together these past two years, and this year five books of the series (my husband got to six, and I am trying desperately to catch up!). Fantasy is a genre that I have discovered as an adult, and I am loving this series. 2026 will bring the end of the series and I am honestly so excited! Brandon Sanderson takes over at the end, so I cannot wait to see how that goes.

📚Fiction, Romance:

Queen Charlotte by Julia Quinn and Shonda Rhimes (link here)

King of Envy by Ana Huang (link here)

Montana Cowboy Romance by Jane Porter (link here)

My reading recap would not be complete without a romance section, right? I have picked just a few of the ones I read this year. Some historical, some contemporary, and a little cowboy (yeehaw!). All great reads for romance lovers, all with a little spice (or a lot).

Have you read any of these? Thoughts? What are your favorite books in 2025? Drop your recommendations / favorites in the comments ⬇️