Top Ten Reads of 2025

 It's been a bit since I've posted any reviews this year. Time just got away from me. However, I'm back to end the year with my Top Ten Reads of 2025. 

I've definitely noticed a trend in my reading habits this year. I'm reading more "take me away" comfort reads; not a huge surprise, considering the state of the world. I'm finding it really difficult to read anything that could make me feel dread or anxiety. It's caused me to miss a lot of great reads, or put books down I would otherwise finish. I'm hopeful 2026 will bring a fresh outlook and I'll return to my love of reading a wide variety of books this year. 

Without further ado, here's my favorites from 2025. I'll say my favorite book came at the end of the year--just goes to show you that reading until the end of the year can bring you fantastic books that end up being favorites. 

10:

This was recommended by my brother and I read it on vacation in May. First in a series. Dark fantasy.

9:

This grew on me and I loved the mermaid folklore woven throughout the story.

8.

First in a new series about a family of witches who are cursed to never be welcome in their Scottish village. Loved this--funny, great characters, whimsical setting. Can't wait to read more!

7.

Fiona Davis remains one of my favorite historical fiction authors. Museums, Ancient Egypt, a lost family:  all combined into a fantastic read.

6.  

I'm loving the growing genre of Japanese magical realism fiction. This short novel is about people who find themselves in their local library, with book recommends that at first seem very wrong, but end of giving them life-changing advice. A gentle read.

5.

Another historical fiction novel that I picked up randomly at B&N and it ended up being one of my favorite reads this year! Miniature dollhouses set the stage for a tale that travels the world.

4.

This was a magical children's novel that had me teary-eyed and reminded me of the magic of reading as a child. I've got the sequel in my stack of books to read for 2026.

3.  

I absolutely love this series, set in New Mexico. A combination of thriller, paranormal, archaeological, and edge of your seat suspense.

2.  

Kirsten Miller has emerged as one of my go to authors. I'll read anything she writes! This tale of a family of witches, the family compound, and their fight to protect the environment--and women from the corruption all around. Loved it!! Bring on the angry women!

And my favorite read of 2025:

I dithered for a few months over this book--finally caved and bought it late in the year. It took me a bit to read it, but oh my lord I enjoyed it so much. Told in letters and emails, you'll quickly fall in love with Sybil Van Antwerp and her reflections on her life. She's sassy, smart, and full of sorrow. I cried so hard at the end I had to de-puff my eyelids! 

A gem of a novel. 10/10 

That's it--my top ten of 2025. I don't know what 2026 has in store for me book-wise--all I know is that I've got stacks at home and I can't wait to discover the books that will impact me this year. I hope whatever you read this year fills you with peace and joy. 

Happy New Year and happy reading from The Bookalicious Babe. 📚📚📚💖💖

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Top Ten Reads of 2025