Happy New Year and welcome 2025! If a goal of yours for the new year is to start reading/start reading more (or you’re just stumped for which books to start the year strong with), today, I’m sharing my top 15 reads over the past year!
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This year, I read 218 books between visual and audio formats and I covered just about every genre. If you ever want to see what I’m reading in real time and catch all my follow-up ratings with occasional reviews, you can follow me on Goodreads HERE.
You can find my top favorite reads from 2023 in last year’s list HERE.
As always, remember… book preferences and what/how we connect with books is totally personal. If I don’t like a book, it doesn’t mean it’s a bad book. Just that I didn’t connect with it enough to recommend. That being said, you can find my running list of recent reads of books I’ve rated with 4+ stars HERE. I’m always updating the list, so bookmark it and check back often!
For all the books I’m reading and loving, and giving 4+ stars, check out my list here…
For all the books I’m reading in real time, along with ratings and reviews, check out my GoodReads account here…
Favorite Reads of 2024
Below are my top reads by category — all in random order! Some of these have been featured in seasonal lists earlier in the year — others are being mentioned now for the first time. I’ve included a few content and theme caveats throughout from memory, but if you’re a sensitive reader/have trouble with certain topics, be sure to check your own trigger warnings.
FAVORITE MEMOIR
Dinner for Vampires
by Bethany Joy Lenz
*Personal Reading Method: audiobook
I adore Bethany and while yes, she was always my favorite actress on One Tree Hill, I always admired her professionalism and talent in both acting and singing. I’ve also always felt she was multifaceted, introspective, and thoughtful and when she announced her memoir which would include a lot of focus on her time in a cult, the release date couldn’t arrive quick enough. It was an easy and fascinating 5* read for me and — as I do with most memoirs — I highly highly recommend the audio version where she narrates!
FAVORITE ROMANCE
Just for the Summer
by Abby Jimenez
*Personal Reading Method: e-book
Probably my all-around favorite author, I’ve read her entire library of work and have yet to consume a book I didn’t adore from her. She typically releases one per year and I love how she can so effortlessly marry humor and great character chemistry with real life situations, trauma, and conflict. Two people agree to a fake dating situation, just to release each other from their self-professed curses — the family dynamics, back stories, resolve, and personal journeys are *chef’s kiss*.
FAVORITE IN A SERIES
Business Casual
by B.K. Borison
*Personal Reading Method: e-book
The fourth and final book of the Lovelight Farms series was probably my favorite. I’ve been raving about the characters in the small town of Inglewild since Book 1 and with the small town charm and descriptive coziness of the Christmas Tree farm central setting, any of the books make a perfect autumn read. But, in this fake dating, opposites-attract irresistible trope with my favorite leading male character of the series, the final book wraps in the fall and it’s absolute perfection. Think dry tattoo artist/local shop owner (her) meets lovable big city finance guy himbo (him). *Caveat for descriptive open door scenes.
FAVORITE MYSTERY THRILLER
Jar of Hearts
by Jennifer Hillier
*Personal Reading Method: e-book
A graphic, disturbing and shocking mystery thriller from my favorite thriller author, if you are sensitive to descriptive violence and aren’t a regular thriller reader, this one may not be for you. But, if you do love a thriller, to me, Jennifer Hillier’s stories are unmatched for how I’m drawn in to her un-put-down-able, emotional novels. This journey uncovers the truth about what happened one night, back in high school, and how it’s connected to the new bodies turning up in present day. *Check your triggers.
FAVORITE PSYCHOLOGY
The Anxious Generation
by Jonathan Haidt
*Personal Reading Method: audiobook
As a parent (who has eyes) and can see the difference in today’s younger generations and all they’re exposed to, I LOVED diving into Jonathan Haidt’s take on the effects of losing play-based learning, increased access to social media, and how it’s all connected. While our family currently has a strong stance on electronics, he discussed a lot of valid points about taking away natural consequences from over-parenting and intervention that debilitate children in terms of learning how to handle their own conflict as they grow up. This was absolutely fascinating and I can also recommend the audio version of this one.
FAVORITE HISTORICAL FICTION
The Great Alone
by Kristin Hannah
*Personal Reading Method: audiobook
I adore Kristin Hannah books in audio format because the majority of them are narrated by the incomparable Julia Whelan — this one included. Based on the description, I didn’t know if a post-Vietnam-war family moving to Alaska would be in my realm of interest, but oh my gosh, I adored this book. Kristin Hannah’s historical fiction always boasts such thoughtful and complex characters with rich storytelling. No surprise — I fell in love with this book — it is easily in my top two KH books, if not the number one. The landscape and rugged geographical elements aren’t the only danger and harsh part of life for a family when they relocate to the area, following the father’s service in the Vietnam War. It’s a book of survival, found family and community, and the complexities of volatile relationships. *Caveat for domestic violence.
FAVORITE SCIENCE FICTION
Project Hail Mary
by Andy Weir
*Personal Reading Method: audiobook
Another book that I consumed in audio format, and another book I didn’t know if I would enjoy since the genre and plot description are far from my usual, I had Dave read it first as a guinea pig. After he confirmed it was worth the hype, I followed suit and am so glad I did. In a totally different kind of book (I believe it’s being made into a movie with Ryan Gosling as the MMC), a mission’s sole survivor must first remember his mission, and then succeed or the future of humanity will be nonexistent. Surprisingly endearing and with heart, the book and the audio performance were phenomenal.
FAVORITE CHICK LIT
Forever, Interrupted
by Taylor Jenkins Reid
*Personal Reading Method: audiobook
Dual timelines intertwine journeys of love, tragedy, and healing with an unlikely duo — Julia Whelan narrates this one and the performance is emotional and fantastic if you’re a fan of audiobooks. I think TJR is best known for her historical fiction, but I’d argue that her present day dramas and stories of real life are her best.
FAVORITE FAITH & LEADERSHIP
Not In It to Win It
by Andy Stanley
*Personal Reading Method: audiobook
Dave and I read this one — with intention — by our pastor since we were in an election year and were’t looking forward to previous years’ of tumultuous, biting rhetoric — especially across social media. TBH, I wish everyone would read this book, regardless that the election has come and gone. If you have political anxiety — whether it be from fear, outcome, divide, or confusion around your role/vocality — this is such an incredible read that has done wonders for putting my own mind and heart at rest. For Christians, there are great reminders on prioritizing who we have been called to be, and what that looks like in an increasingly volatile political climate. If you aren’t a Christian, but long to maintain/strengthen relationships, Andy Stanley’s book is rooted in such wisdom with universally sound advice, it would be beneficial for anyone to read, across the political spectrum. I love consuming all his books in audio format!
FAVORITE AUDIOBOOK
Carrie Soto is Back
by Taylor Jenkins Reid
*Personal Reading Method: audiobook
Probably my fave historical fiction from TJR (which is saying a lot when comparing it against Daisy Jones & The Six and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo), this book — focused on Carrie Soto, a professional tennis player, and her journey and relationships — is phenomenal. Also narrated by Julia Whelan, I loved taking a deep dive into this complex character, her motives, and what shaped her after her brief mention in Malibu Rising. If you’ve enjoyed other Taylor Jenkins Reid books but haven’t prioritized this one, do it!
FAVORITE SPICY WESTERN
Heartless
by Elsie Silver
*Personal Reading Method: e-book
Book 2 in the Chestnut Springs series was probably my favorite — the age gap and falling for the nanny totally sucked me in and if you love an unapologetic racy romance, this one was delicious! I would read the books in order and I enjoyed the series, but Book 2 was far better than Book 1 IMO. I 10/10 recommend playing country music faintly in the background while reading this one. 😉
FAVORITE ROM COM
The Paradise Problem
by Christina Lauren
*Personal Reading Method: e-book
Christina Lauren’s character chemistry and interactions are always among my favorites! Fake marriage, set in paradise, opposite social classes, strong FMC with next level wit and chemistry. I totally picture the epilogue playing out in a move style “where are they now” with text captions and some poignant song as a send off… the whole, beautifully developed story would make a fantastic rom com in film format. Delicious during summer, but I think perfect for a dreary winter when you’re dreaming of an island escape, too. 😉
FAVORITE HORROR
Ask for Andrea
by Noelle W/ Ihli
*Personal Reading Method: e-book
Told from the perspective of multiple victims — now ghosts — this book quickly shocked me when I realized I had never read anything like it. Once you move past the disturbing descriptions, the mystery and thrill of the book totally takes over and easily puts this one into binge-worthy status.
FAVORITE CHARACTERS TO ROOT FOR
Out On a Limb
by Hannah Bonam-Young
*Personal Reading Method: e-book
A Halloween party hook-up leads to way more than either of these strangers bargained for. Don’t let your initial instincts of this book’s tropes deter you — it’s so well done and heartwarming, and the characters are so so good. I love the representation of both characters having differently-abled physical attributes, but it doesn’t define who they are or become a main storyline. Such a great cozy book when you want well written relationships you can cheer (and swoon) for! *Caveat for descriptive open door scenes.
FAVORITE SHORT STORY
Worst Wingman Ever
by Abby Jimenez
*Personal Reading Method: e-book
I quickly devoured this short story on a single treadmill session and while the story itself isn’t long, the full story format of intro/conflict/cultivation of characters/resolution is 100% complete. Such a sweet and quick story to devour in under an hour by my favorite author!
Favorite Book Accessories & Reading Essentials
You may have caught a glimpse in my opening photo but a favorite recent bookmark addition to my collection and reading accessories are THESE Taylor Swift book stack bookmarks of song titles, by album. You can purchase them individually or as a full set (which is what I did 😉 ).
With Canada’s shipping strike, I still haven’t received it, but I also have THIS Taylor Swift bookmark on the way — featuring all the albums on one bookmark.
Below are more my personal favorites that I have, use, and swear by…
- Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (waterproof and no glare, perfect for reading in the outdoor sun — unlike regular screens)
- Rechargeable Reading Light (multiple light settings & dimmable)
- Remote Control Page Turner for Kindle (or tablets/phones) (lasts on a single charge FOREVER and I love using it on the treadmill, while I’m eating, and when I want to stay under the covers)
- Book Seat (love this for both regular hard copy books and my kindle for hands-free holding)
- Book Cover Themed Bookmarks (from THIS shop)
- Pastel No-Bleed Highlighters (especially great for highlighting thin pages in the Bible)
- Custom Book Spine Mug (you send 16 book names and the shop owner creates a custom mug with illustrations of the book spines!)
- Foldable Stand (great for phones but I use it for my Kindle, especially next to the pool and on my desk. Folds flat for easy drawer storage.)
If you have any top reads of the year that you think deserve a shout-out, let us know in the comments below!
What an amazing compilation of books Kelley. I would love to know though how you get through so many books in a year. I’d love to consume 218 books in a year…but I have no idea how to organize my time to get through this many…or half this many. I would love your input on how you do this? Thanks. I am looking forward to reading some of your favs for sure!!
Hi, Marion and happy new year! I am able to consume as many books as I do a few different ways/reasons. 1. Whenever I am driving, doing chores, etc. I am listening to audiobooks. I move around with AirPods. This alone lets me “read” more passively but I can’t listen when I am working, writing, or doing anything that requires a lot of thought or I have no idea what I listened to and have to rewind. My TV watching is almost non-existant aside from an occasional series so I spend a lot of evenings reading when a lot of people may prefer to watch TV. I read while I eat lunch and I also bump my font up and use a page turner remote and read while I’m on the treadmill. I go through spurts where I’m not feeling it, feel unmotivated, or get caught in a phone scroll but it’s a hobby I try to make time for when I’m able and try to incorporate it as something to look forward to while I do tasks. In the morning, I can’t justify sitting down to read, but I know that if I get on the treadmill, I get to read — so, it ensures I walk and allows me to get some reading time in. With all this and working by myself, I hope this gives you some ideas on how to get some more reading in if that’s your desire this year. Wishing you all the best in 2025 — xoxo
Always good to add a few books to my list! Our church did a study on “Not In It to Win It” with another church of a different denomination. It was interesting!
Libbe, Thank you for taking the time to visit. I always appreciate your support! I bet your church study was very interesting and thank you for sharing with me. Here’s to finding more good reads in the New Year!