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1) Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros
This book was absolutely wild. I’m still processing it and struggling to put my feelings into words. So much was revealed, yet a lot of it involved planning and discovery, if that makes sense. The ending left me feeling gutted—sad, unsettled, and completely uncertain about what’s to come. It’s agonizing to think about the wait for the next installment. Everything feels like it’s falling apart, and there’s no light at the end of the tunnel. I genuinely can’t even begin to imagine what will happen next, and it’s a tough pill to swallow.
That said, I truly enjoyed this book. While some parts were a bit slower, the battle scenes were incredible. The dragons are just so cool, and the squad fighting together is such a highlight. I loved getting more insight into the characters and seeing their development. Xaden continues to be amazing, but this time, I couldn’t help feeling heartbroken for him. Here’s hoping the wait isn’t too long and that our favorite characters will somehow make it through.
2) Funny Story by Emily Henry
Looking for a sweet, contemporary read to balance out your string of thrillers?
One that’ll leave you grinning from ear to ear and laughing until tears stream down your face?
This is the book for you!
Daphne is blissfully in love and just weeks away from marrying Peter—until his wandering eye gets the better of him. Convinced the grass is greener elsewhere, Peter calls off the wedding to pursue a relationship with his lifelong best friend, Petra.
Suddenly left (almost) at the altar, Daphne finds herself without a home. In an ironic twist, she turns to none other than Petra’s ex-boyfriend, Miles, for help. He offers her a spare bedroom, and the two form an unlikely friendship over their shared heartbreak. Misery, as they say, loves company!
This charming and original love story stole my heart. It’s an uplifting, feel-good read that will leave you smiling long after you turn the last page. Truly the feel-good book of the year!
3) Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
This book perfectly captures the charm of a breezy summer romance, radiating warmth and joy throughout its pages. The vivid descriptions and authentic characters draw you in effortlessly, making it easy to lose yourself in their lives and stories.
The audiobook adds another layer of enjoyment, seamlessly fitting into daily routines while amplifying the delightful experience of this novel. If you're looking for a feel-good story filled with humor and lovable characters, Just for the Summer is an excellent pick.
Experiencing it in audiobook format makes it even more immersive—an ideal choice for fans of heartfelt and engaging love stories.
4) The Wedding People by Alison Espach
Everyone is absolutely right about The Wedding People—I couldn’t have loved this book more.
The story follows Phoebe, a recently divorced adjunct college professor who arrives at the Cornwall Hotel, a place she’s long dreamed of visiting. Leaving her past life entirely behind, she’s grappling with her mental health and searching for a fresh start. But upon arrival, she discovers the hotel is almost entirely booked for a wedding party—she’s the only guest who isn’t part of it. This leads her to an unexpected meeting with the bride, Lila, sparking a connection that blossoms into friendship and something even deeper.
While the book touches on the struggles of mental health, its true focus lies in the power of connection, humor, growth, understanding, and above all, love. The characters are wonderfully complex and richly drawn, making it impossible not to root for them.
This isn’t just a feel-good story—it’s a deeply resonant one, filled with tender moments and thoughtful insights. Phoebe’s reflections on marriage and separation struck a chord with me, leaving me feeling both understood and inspired. If you’re looking for a story with heart, humor, and substance, The Wedding People is a standout. It’s one of my favorites this year and a book that offers hope for anyone ready to start a new chapter.
5) Powerless by Lauren Roberts
Powerless absolutely lived up to the hype for me!
While it’s been over a decade since I first read The Hunger Games and I haven’t rewatched the films in ages, I can understand why fans familiar with that series might draw comparisons.
It’s also been likened to Red Queen, which has now made its way onto my to-read list. The darker elements and historical-esque setting even gave me subtle Game of Thrones vibes.
As someone who doesn’t dive deeply into the Fantasy genre, I feel like my relative newness to it made this story even more enjoyable. If I were a more seasoned Fantasy reader, I might have had a different experience, but Lauren Roberts’ writing is undeniably captivating and engaging.
For a newer author, Roberts demonstrates incredible potential, and I hope she continues to carve out an even more distinctive voice as her career progresses. Her talent shines brightly, and I’m excited to see where her journey takes her next!
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