So far 2025 has been a huge year of reading for me. With only three months left, I wanted to share my top five reads that you should definitely make time for before 2026 hits!
Penance by Eliza Clark
A fictional murder case told from the perspective of a journalist’s new book, Penance delves into the cases of morality, misinformation, and the impact of social media. The narrator explores the death of teenager Joan Wilson, interviewing family members, witnesses, and Joan’s murderers to explore the ins and outs of this famous case. Clark navigates the topic with nuance and intrigue, positioning the narrator as unreliable and casting a fantastic light on the complexities and moral ambiguities of true crime culture.
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Prior to reading this book, I had the opinion that World War II novels were overdone at this point. However, The Nightingale proved me wrong. Following two sisters involved in the French resistance in 1940s occupied France, Hannah tells a story of found family, tragedy and betrayal with heart-wrenching twists at every corner.
When in Rome by Sarah Adams
This is one for the romance lovers. When in Rome was the ultimate summer read, it follows burnt out pop-star Amelia ‘Rae’ Rose in her escape from stardom to a small town named Rome. Here she meets Noah, a moody local, who allows her to stay in his guest room. Whilst showing her around the sites and quirks of the town he slowly falls in love with her. This ‘grumpy x sunshine’ small-town romance concocts the perfect blend of love, emotion, and laughter, making it such an easy, fun read to relax with.
Fear the Flames by Olivia Rose Darling
Fear the Flames follows Elowen, an exiled queen, in her journey to reclaim the dragons torn away from her as a child. Filled with politics, magic, and romance, Fear the Flames is an excellent read for any ‘romantasy’ lovers who enjoy fantastical quests, found family, and immersive world-building.
When We Were Silent by Fiona McPhillips
On a slightly darker note, When We Were Silent is a hard-hitting, emotional read deserving of its five-star rating. Told between two different time-frames, this novel follows Louise’s experience at an elite private school and the secrets that are being threatened to come out thirty years later. This book tackles some very difficult topics, including child abuse and grooming, so definitely check the trigger warnings before you pick this one up. In my opinion, its intensity was covered with respect, nuance, and complexity, and has contributed to this book being one I’ll never forget.