From the Editor’s Desk: My Favorite Books of 2025
Out of all the books I read and reviewed in 2025, these six novels stood out for their timeless themes, compelling characters, and captivating plots. Honestly, ranking books is rather difficult for a bibliophile because I love so many of them and it seems impossible to pick only one for each genre, but I will do my best! Without further adieu, let’s jump right into my favorite books of 2025!
Historical Fiction
This was an especially tough one. There were so many good historical dramas that made their way onto my bookshelf, and I’m sure there were hundreds of other contenders that I simply didn’t have time to read. The Collector of Burned Books by Roseanna M. White however, would have to be included at the top of my list. Her WWII story about courageous heroines, enemies to lovers, and the importance of protecting literature was simply masterfully written. The clever title and beautiful cover art helped solidify this stand-alone novel in a place of prominence in my list of favorites.
Several historical fiction runner ups were Through Each Tomorrow by Gabrielle Meyer and A Song in the Dark by Kimberley Woodhouse.
Contemporary Fiction
There were several delightful contemporary novels this year. For the sake of this brief list, two books in particular battled for the top spot: The Sands of Sea Blue Beach by Rachel Hauck and When the Road Comes Around by Katie Powner. I loved Powner’s stories because of how masterfully she portrayed mental challenges, and the redemption arc was just so good. But I would have to say that The Sands of Sea Blue Beach was such a relaxing and lighthearted read that it would be the book I pick up over and over again. But I really do recommend them both!
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Gelato at the Villa by Robin Jones Gunn in this section. That was another delightful novel that deserves every accolade.
Fictional Romance
This was probably the easiest decision! Pepper Basham’s Sense and Suitability shone as my uncontested favorite. Full of humor and hysterically funny characters, I absolutely loved every chapter. Another humorous romance was The Rules of Falling for You by Mollie Rushmeyer, although it lacked the depth of artistry that Basham effortlessly brought to life.
Amish Fiction
I will be the first to admit that Amish fiction is not my to-go pleasure reading, but I did thoroughly enjoy Still Waters by Patricia Johns. The characters were well crafted, the plot was interesting, and the romance believable.
Mystery/Suspense
Ooh, several chills-worthy novels here. This was my first year reading anything by Lynette Eason, and I was immediately hooked! Her book Final Approach was the perfect blend of mystery, romance, and just enough suspense to make it interesting but not so much that it was terrifying. A close second in this category was Fire Mountain by Dana Mentink, and I am beyond excited to review the next installment in her Elements of Danger Series in 2026!
Biblical Fiction
There were several thoroughly researched and incredibly written biblical fiction novels this year, but I would have to say that my favorite was Splendor of the Land by Connilyn Cossette. The plot twists were amazing, I loved the characters, and the storyline was fantastic. Another favorite was Noble by Mesu Andrews.
Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Did I really not review any fantasy novels this year? Considering how fantasy has been my favorite genre since childhood, that seems like a crime. Do you have a fantasy or science fiction novel releasing in 2026? Let me know at familyfictionsubmissions@gmail.com. I would love to chat more about reviewing it for FamilyFiction!
And that is the editor’s pick for 2025! I hope you enjoy these novels as much as I do, and I’m looking forward to all the amazing novels coming next year. Merry Christmas and happy reading!
