Marina Jo's Place

I read 41 books in 2025, and I had a blast with most of them. In a year filled with madness, I was able to escape into fantastical worlds of romance, fun and intrigue. My top reads include my five-star reads, but they also include books that opened new doorways. Without further ado, in no particular order, here are the 2025 highlights:

“Mate” — Ali Hazelwood

When I first read “Bride” by Ali Hazelwood, I was obsessed. I literally bought a special edition in French because I was that obsessed. When it was revealed she would be writing a second book in the same universe, I was elated. And then I read it.

This book was the personification of longing. For me, it stands right next to the famous Mr. Darcy hand grab from “Pride and Prejudice” (the 2005 version). You have two main characters who dislike each other but are also wildly attracted to one another. You also learn very early on that there’s more at play, making them jumping into bed nearly impossible.

I loved the slow-burn nature of this book. While I know it’s unlikely, I would be overjoyed if she wrote more in this universe.

“Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s (Sorcerer’s) Stone” — J.K. Rowling

I watch the “Harry Potter” movies almost monthly. I adore them. I have a favorite, and I know many of the lines by heart — very much comfort movies. However, I didn’t grow up reading the books. A personal goal of mine this year was to finally read them for the first time.

Now on Book 5, I fully get it. I understand why people are as attached to these novels as they are. Despite the author’s atrocious personal views, she crafted a beautiful world full of magic and wonder. I can imagine that for children, this was such an eye-opening experience — a reminder that the only thing that truly limits us is our imagination.

I loved this first book and the subsequent four. I hope to finish the series in Q1.

“Oathbound” — Tracy Deonn

It is very clear that Tracy Deonn has gone to therapy, understands therapy and knows the grieving process inside and out. This series, while young adult, is for anyone going through loss and confusion.

I love that she is taking her time releasing these books and carefully crafting characters that feel truly corporeal. Bree Matthews is that girl, and no matter what she is facing with the Legendborn or the shadow world, she is doing the best she can. That’s the magic of this book. It shows the messy parts of grief while thrusting us into a rich tapestry of fantasy and magic.

“The Gingerbread Bakery” — Laurie Gilmore

My reasons for this one will be short. I love this entire series. These smutty small-town romances have my heart. I loved Annie and Mac. They show that your first love can sometimes be a pig-headed idiot, but that doesn’t mean they can’t also be your true love.

I loved seeing characters I have grown to know while being introduced to others I know will be part of the series soon. Is it mostly the same formula every time? Yes. Will I devour it like it’s the last piece of cake on planet Earth? Absolutely.

“Two Twisted Crowns” — Rachel Gillig

Very rarely does the second book in a series outweigh the first. However, that was the case with Rachel Gillig’s duology. “One Dark Window” was not a bad book by any means — it was good enough to make me read the second. It was just, at times, confusing to follow.

Despite that, I went into the second book because the magic system was so unique, I couldn’t step away. I’m so glad I didn’t. “Two Twisted Crowns” was spectacular. The different perspectives, expanded lore and mystery were so well done. I liked how real this book felt, even though it was purely magical. Families make us all a little crazy — add magic, and you have a heck of a time.

“Onyx Storm” — Rebecca Yarros

I think what I am about to say may be a hot take: I loved this book. The beginning had far too many names (I’m still not sure whether we’re talking about the place or the person when someone says Lewellen), but the story itself was so much fun.

It felt like a “Star Wars” journey with all the island hopping. It made me fall in love with characters I already liked and question others I hadn’t before. After many hours of discussion with my book club, we still have no idea who that character could be. I just had so much fun with this one.

And with that, the 2025 reading year comes to a close. I already have a ton on my TBR, and I plan to try to read more of the books I already own before purchasing new ones. (No promises!)