my favorite and least favorite books of 2025 ✨

Reflecting on my 2025 reading journey, I found that organizing favorite and least favorite books month by month was a unique challenge—especially when some months had only a single or no book read, which sometimes disrupted the usual chronological order. However, this approach gave me a clearer perspective on the variety and flow of my yearly reading habits. Among my top picks were standout works from authors like Emily Henry and Rina Kent, both celebrated for their compelling storytelling and emotionally engaging narratives. Emily Henry's books, such as "Beach Read" and "People We Meet on Vacation," have a magical way of blending romance with deeper reflections on personal growth and relationships, making them perfect for escapism while still providing substance. On the flip side, some books didn’t resonate as well, and I acknowledged those as my least favorites. It’s important to mention that a least favorite doesn’t necessarily mean a bad book; sometimes, it’s about expectations or mood at the time of reading. For example, titles like "Behind the King" and "The Bank's Long Game" didn't quite capture my engagement as much as I anticipated, despite their acclaim. Compiling this list has motivated me to be more intentional about my 2026 reads. I plan to explore a wider range of genres and give more chances to underrated authors or series like The Vancouver Storm by Ana Huang and The D.C. Stars series by Chelsea Curto and Paisley Hope, which showed potential but didn’t make my favorites list this year. For fellow book lovers, tracking your yearly reads with honest rankings is a wonderful way to discover new favorites and learn more about your reading preferences. It also sparks meaningful conversations through book clubs or social media hashtags like #2025books and #lemon8bookclub. Sharing these insights not only enriches your personal experience but also connects you with a community of readers eager to exchange opinions and discover hidden gems. Ultimately, the joy of reading lies in its diversity and constant surprises, whether through bestsellers, TikTok sensations, or quietly powerful hidden titles. Happy reading in 2026—may your new year be filled with books that inspire, challenge, and entertain you deeply.