Stop scrolling and start reading! This is the ultimate curated list of the 30 best books I've personally read this year across thriller, fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and non-fiction. Whether you need a gripping page-turner or inspiring personal growth b...
Sections
5
Contemporary Romance
Thriller & Suspense
Literary & Historical Fiction
Non-Fiction & Self-Help
Fantasy & Sci-Fi
Contemporary Romance
Feel good love stories
A delightful academic slow-burn romance with a grumpy/sunshine dynamic. This book is hilarious, smart, and gave me all the butterflies.
The Love Hypothesis
My favorite meta-romance! It's about two people in the publishing industry who keep running into each other in a small town. Perfect for bookworms.
Book Lovers
A charming, political romance about the First Son and a Prince. It's funny, heartwarming, and full of hope. Made me believe in love again!
Red, White & Royal Blue: A Novel
An authentic and steamy romance featuring a chronically ill woman determined to 'get a life.' The characters are incredibly real.
Get A Life, Chloe Brown
An enemies-to-lovers story set in the wedding industry. The banter is top-tier and the chemistry is off the charts. Great vacation read.
The Worst Best Man: A Novel
This witty, slow burn romantic comedy was one I couldn't put down!! It is one that will make you stay up late into the morning to finish reading and dread when its over.
Books - Just for the Summer: Jimenez, Abby
Thriller & Suspense
Best page-turners
A brilliantly meta-twist on the 'stolen idea' trope. The pacing is masterful and the ending will make you gasp. Perfect for a rainy day read.
The Plot: A Novel (The Book Series, 1)
An absolute classic in modern suspense. The short chapters and compelling premise make it impossible to set down. Great for getting out of a reading slump.
The Silent Patient
If you haven't read it, you must. The definitive modern thriller that redefined the genre. A dark, twisted look at a marriage.
Gone Girl
A more emotional and character-driven thriller, focused on a woman protecting her stepdaughter. Highly recommended if you love domestic suspense.
The Last Thing He Told Me: Reese Witherspoon Pick
A classic 'locked room' mystery set on a cruise ship. This one ratcheted up my anxiety in the best way. A quick, fun, and gripping read.
The Woman in Cabin 10
Literary & Historical Fiction
Books that make you think
A devastating yet beautiful story of two sisters in France during World War II. A powerful exploration of sacrifice and resilience.
The Nightingale: A Novel
A beautifully written story that blends a coming-of-age tale with a mystery. The natural world descriptions are mesmerizing.
Where the Crawdads Sing: Reese's Book Club
A heart-wrenching and essential read about friendship, betrayal, and redemption in Afghanistan. A true modern classic.
The Kite Runner
A captivating novel about a reclusive Hollywood icon ready to tell her life story. It's glamorous, emotional, and deals with complex relationships.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo: A Novel
A mesmerizing novel that reimagines the life of William Shakespeare's family, centered on the death of his son. The writing is utterly stunning.
Hamnet
Non-Fiction & Self-Help
Productivity and growth
The single best guide to building good habits and breaking bad ones. Small changes lead to remarkable results. Essential reading for productivity.
Atomic Habits: Easy Way to Build & Break Habits
A powerful book on the importance of vulnerability and courage in leadership. It's not just for managers—it's for anyone looking to live authentically.
Dare to Lead: Brave Work, Tough Talks
A stunning, unforgettable memoir about a young woman who, despite a difficult childhood, pursued knowledge and earned a PhD. Incredibly inspiring.
Educated: A Memoir
A life-changing book that challenged all my traditional views on work and retirement. Full of actionable steps for modern entrepreneurs.
The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5 & Live
A powerful memoir on finding your true voice and breaking free from societal expectations. A deeply moving and empowering book, especially for women.
Untamed
Fantasy & Sci-Fi
Top World-building
An incredible blend of humor, high stakes, and hard science fiction. The most inventive book I've read this year. The ending is deeply moving
Project Hail Mary: A Novel
The ultimate escapist fantasy read. It has the perfect mix of dragons, magic, and romance. A viral sensation for a reason!
Fourth Wing (The Empyrean, 1)
A beautifully philosophical book that asks 'what if?'—a must-read for anyone who feels stuck or needs a reminder of life's infinite possibilities.
The Midnight Library: A GMA Book Club Novel
A mind-bending, epic-scale sci-fi novel about the evolution of intelligent species. Absolutely brilliant for fans of deep-dive world-building.
Children of Time
If you're new to high fantasy, this is the place to start. A classic tale of a heist in a world where magic is governed by metals. Unputdownable.