We are officially in the home stretch of 2025, and as we close out the year, I think it’s worth pausing—just for a moment—to feel grateful. Even if you’re in the middle of a very hard season. And honestly, December does feel hard this year. The sun disappears by 4:30pm. I’ve been leaning hard into one-pot and one-sheet-pan meals. Anyway, while right now, things feel a bit heavy, I’m going to stop, and take a moment to feel grateful for all the amazing books that fed my soul this year — because there is nothing like a really good book. The kind of book you curl up with and cannot put down. A true page-turner that pulls you out of the fog and reminds you why reading feels so nourishing.
This year, I read 55 books, and I expect to close out the year around 57. What follows is my curated list of the books I loved most—books that stayed with me, challenged me, comforted me, or simply delighted me.
1. God of the Woods by Liz Moore
This book was excellent. It felt like summer camp in the 1960s and 70s—moody, layered, and keeps you on your toes. The multiple points of view and alternating timelines worked beautifully, the characters were deeply complicated, and the pacing was spot-on. It’s no surprise this book made so many “best of” lists this year.
2. The Wedding People by Alison Espach
I adored this book. It made me laugh, it made me cry, and the characters felt alive in the best way. This was easily one of my favorite reads of the year—warm, funny, heartbreaking, and perfectly done.
3. Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy
A thoughtful parenting book with plenty of wisdom—though not everything resonated for me. I found myself taking what worked and leaving the rest, especially as a mom of multiple young children where “pause and process” isn’t always realistic. Still, there’s a lot of good here. My favorite takeaway from this book, that you can apply to anyone, not just your children is giving someone an M.G.I; most generous interpretation.
4. Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
I love Taylor Jenkins Reid, and this was no exception. Set in the 1980s and centered around space, this novel was beautiful, emotional, and deeply satisfying. I cried. Of course I did.
5. The Bright Years by Sarah Damnoff
A powerful story about redemption and forgiveness, told through multiple perspectives. This one touched me personally and lingered long after I finished it. Quietly profound and beautifully written.
6. The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
One of my favorite nonfiction books—ever. I return to it again and again when life feels chaotic. Even as an observant Jew, this book speaks deeply to me. It’s grounding and refreshing and oh so inspiring.
7. The Rational Bible by Dennis Prager
This was a game‑changer for me. I started with Genesis and couldn’t put it down. The commentary is rich, accessible, and deeply thought‑provoking—not just for Jews, but for anyone interested in the Bible and belief. I’m currently working my way through Deuteronomy.
8. Good Energy by Casey Means
A compelling look at metabolic health and the broken medical system. This book encouraged me to take ownership of my health and ask better questions. Eye‑opening, motivating, and empowering.
9. Marble Hall Murders by Anthony Horowitz
Anthony Horowitz is my go‑to palate cleanser, and this book delivered. Smart, layered, and endlessly entertaining—with a book‑within‑a‑book mystery that makes his novels such a joy to read.
10. Is She Really Going Out With Him? by Sophie Cousens
Light, breezy, and fun. A perfect rom‑com read when you want something enjoyable and low‑stakes.
11. What Does It Feel Like? by Sophie Kinsella
A short, poignant read inspired by the author’s real‑life health scare. Tender, thoughtful, and beautifully done. I read it in one sitting.
12. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Rereading this 13 years later—as a married person—was a completely different experience. Delicious, unsettling, and deeply insightful. If you read it back in 2012, I highly recommend revisiting it.
13. All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
I debated including this one. I loved 90% of it—the writing, the Missouri setting, the atmosphere—but the ending truly frustrated me. Still, the journey was compelling enough to earn it a spot on this list.
That concludes my baker’s dozen of favorite reads from 2025. I hope this list inspires you to pick up a few wonderful books as we head toward the close of the year.