It’s only April, but I’ve already found a few books that I know are going to stay with me. Ones that made me cry, gasp, or sit frozen on the couch processing the ending. You know the feeling.
These are my 2025 standouts so far — the ones I’m quietly pushing into hands (or not-so-quietly yelling about on TikTok).
This book completely devastated me in the best possible way. It’s the kind of story that gets under your skin and staysthere. At one point, I was full-on ugly crying — and I don’t think I’ll ever forget how deeply it made me feel.
It’s a layered, emotional exploration of love in all its forms — romantic, familial, platonic — told through beautifully woven dual timelines. Every character feels real and flawed and human, which only made it hit harder. It’s heartbreaking and honest and impossible to put down. Just be warned: it won’t let you go easily.
I fell in love with this one almost immediately. The cozy, slightly modern fae world? Royal courts, magic, and a bookstore-owning main character? Yes, please.
I wasn’t sure about the “choosing a husband” plot at first — it leans into The Bachelorette energy — but once I embraced the chaos, I had so much fun with it. And then there's the murder mystery that completely hooked me: Who killed the royal family? Who’s next? And why? The story weaves together romance, politics, danger, and real emotional weight with themes like anxiety and self-harm handled so well.
The ending? I sat there frozen for two full minutes. I need the sequel yesterday.
This book took my breath away. From the very first page, it felt huge — like a story that couldn’t be contained, driven by a love so epic it practically leapt off the page. It balances lyrical, emotional writing with big themes: fate, good vs. evil, the sacrifices we make for love.
At its core, it’s about two soulmates bound by a love that feels destined — and when the twists hit (especially one near the end that had me clutching my chest), I was gasping. The ending left me feeling both gutted and hopeful, which is such a rare, magical combination. Fans of epic, emotionally intense love stories — this one’s for you.
If you’ve read any of these, I’d love to hear your thoughts — or tell me what book has made your favorites list so far this year. I’m always looking for the next one to obsess over.
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