I read a lot in 2025 {okay… a lot a lot}, but not every book sticks with you once you turn the final page. The books below are the ones I still found myself thinking about after I finished because of their great storytelling, strong characters, and that “just one more chapter” feeling.
Here are my favorite reads of 2025, broken down by vibe. Some already made an appearance on my Summer Reads 2025 list but they are just too good to not share again!
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolute Favorites
These were hands-down the best of the best for me this year.
The Love Haters by Katherine Center ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Warm, hopeful, and emotionally satisfying. This book had heart, humor, and just the right amount of depth. A true comfort read that still felt meaningful.
Bonus – this book is on Kindle Unlimited! It’s $11.99 a month, BUT I promise you’ll get your money’s worth if you read at least two books a month!
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A powerful, haunting read that completely pulled me in. This one was intense, beautifully written, and unforgettable. Easily one of the strongest books I read all year. It was crazy because about 1/4 into the book you think the story should be over but there is SO much more!!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ Favorites
The Names by Florence Knapp ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
This was one of those quiet, thoughtful reads that completely surprised me. Beautifully written and emotionally layered, it explores identity and relationships in a way that feels both tender and honest. A definite highlight of my year. It gives “Closing Doors” feeling – a “what if” this had happened!
Awake: A Memoir by Jen Hatmaker ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
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Raw, reflective, and deeply personal. This memoir felt like sitting down with a friend who’s telling the truth—even when it’s uncomfortable. One of my favorite nonfiction reads of the year.
It’s a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Charming and heartfelt in the best way. This was one of those romances that feels both cozy and emotionally smart. I absolutely LOVE anything Annabel writes! I still think about Nora Goes Off Script all these years after I read it!
James by Percival Everett ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Sharp, powerful, and thought-provoking. This was a book that demanded attention and delivered something meaningful. It reimagines Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of the enslaved man, Jim and it is serously so amazing. I listened to it (which I highly recommend!) on Libro.fm
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Strong 4-Star Reads I Highly Recommend
These books may not have been perfect, but they were consistently enjoyable and memorable.
- The Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwood ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Reynolds Protective Series by Rebecca Sharp ⭐⭐⭐⭐ {KU Titles!}
- Work in Progress by Kat Mackenzie ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Good Grief by Sara Goodman Confino ⭐⭐⭐⭐¼
- One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune ⭐⭐⭐⭐¼ {KU Title!}
- All Good People Here by Ashley Flowers ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid ⭐⭐⭐⭐¼
- Sounds Like Love by Ashley Poston ⭐⭐⭐⭐
These were solid, enjoyable reads that I’d happily recommend if you like contemporary fiction, romance, or book-club-style novels. I also went hard on Piper Rayne this year – it was a heavy year personally and I needed an escape!
I read way more books that I loved! Make sure to check ’em out over on Fable or follow me over on my bookstagram, Molly’s Lucky Reads.
Make sure to charge up your Kindles and add these books to your wishlist! Would you add anything to this list? Leave a comment and let me know – I’m always looking for new titles to add to my To-Be-Read list!
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