These page-turners will have you hooked faster than a TV show binge session.
The start of a new year calls for fresh stories and captivating reads to shake things up. If your TBR pile is looking a little uninspired, I’ve got you covered. These four books are guaranteed to make you laugh, gasp, and stay up way too late—and yes, there’s even a dragon or two involved. Ready? Let’s get started.
Secret of Souls by Aubrie Nixon
What do you get when you combine a plague, a snarky assassin, and a loaf of braided cinnamon bread? Pure chaos, and it’s glorious. In Secret of Souls, Zephera Travelle, aka the “Lady of Death,” is sent on a mission by the king of Lucent to save the empire from The Decay, a nasty plague devouring everything in its path. With a misfit crew that includes a mage, a girly guard, and a brooding warrior, Zephera embarks on an impossible quest that’ll have you questioning who (or what) you can trust. It’s fast-paced, darkly funny, and full of twists you won’t see coming. Plus, Zephera’s cinnamon bread obsession is just too relatable.
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Dragons. Betrayal. Slow-burn romance. Fourth Wing has all the ingredients for a book you’ll obsess over for weeks. Violet Sorrengail is thrust into the brutal world of dragon riders where “survival” is more of a suggestion than a guarantee. With jaw-dropping twists and enough tension to snap a steel cable, this one’s perfect for readers who like their fantasy a little fiery (pun very much intended).
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Who says the 1960s weren’t progressive? Elizabeth Zott is a scientist turned accidental TV cooking star who’s taking her misogynistic world and flipping it on its head. This book isn’t just clever and hilarious; it sneaks in some pretty deep truths about ambition, love, and how to make your voice heard (even when everyone else is talking over you). Bonus: You’ll probably pick up some science facts along the way.
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
An octopus as a co-narrator? Yes, please. Meet Marcellus, the smartest creature in the room (or tank). This quirky and heartwarming novel pairs his observations with the struggles of a small-town widow, and somehow, it works—like, really works. It’s a story about grief, friendship, and the unexpected ways we help each other heal. Also, you’ll never look at an octopus the same way again.
Your TBR Just Got More Interesting
There you have it—four books that’ll bring some excitement to your 2025 reading life. Whether you’re craving dragons, deep laughs, or a little bit of wisdom from an eight-legged genius, these picks won’t let you down. So, grab a coffee (or hot choco, no judgment) and get reading. And hey, let me know which one you’re picking up first!
