New Year – New Books to Read

Dear Readers,

My annual holiday gift to you is a list of MY TOP 12 BEST BOOKS FROM 2025.

With about four million books published each year, it’s hard to narrow my recommendations down to twelve. So many books, so little time! I read and loved each of these books, several I discussed with others in book clubs. I included my two books that were published in 2025. If you don’t love your own books, you need to rethink your career.

Here’s my selection in no particular order:

1. Theo of Golden by Allen Levi. This was my favorite book last year. It’s Levi’s first novel, which is hard to believe as it’s so beautifully and professionally written. In the book, stories are told, friendships are born, and lives are changed. Theo, a mysterious man in his eighties, left a lasting impression on me. A happy, sweet, sad, beautiful story.
2. These Tangled Vines by Julianne Maclean. This story location was special to me because it takes place in an area of Tuscany where I stayed in a historic villa and took cooking classes. Besides the delicious landscape, food, and wine descriptions, the book is also full of love, secrets, sacrifice, courage, and the true meaning of family. Nothing special but a good, solid story.
3. The Narrowboat Summer by Anne Youngson. Save this one for the summer. It’s slow, easy, and charming. Travel with Eve and Sally as they journey through the canals of England on a narrowboat. A story of empowerment for older women. An English relative of mine did narrowboat excursions with her family years ago. A sweet memory.
4. The Woman They Could Not Silence by Kate Moore. This is one of the most powerful and memorable non-fiction books I’ve ever read! Braving the confines of an oppressive mental asylum, Elizabeth Packard defied all odds as she fought for her freedom and the rights of countless other women confined against their will. With relentless determination, she became a voice that resonated across the nation, igniting a movement for change. The gripping and meticulously researched narrative shines a light on Elizabeth’s remarkable journey.
5. All The Colors of The Dark by Chris Whitaker. After Patch is abducted and held in darkness, he falls in love with an unseen girl. Upon escape, he spends his life searching for her while his friend Saint shadows his journey seeking truth.
6. Guncle by Steven Rowley. A warm and funny novel about a once-famous gay sitcom star whose unexpected family tragedy leaves him with his young niece and nephew for the summer.
7. The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon. A gripping historical mystery inspired by the life and diary of Martha Ballard, a renowned 18th-century midwife.
8. How To Read a Book by Monica Wood. A heartfelt, uplifting novel about a chance encounter at a bookstore. The book explores redemption, unlikely friendships, and the life-changing power of sharing stories. The story reminds us that goodness and books can still win in this world.
9. Between Two Kingdoms by Suleika Jaouad. A deeply moving memoir of illness and recovery. Powerful and not for the faint of heart.
10. It’s (Mostly) Good To Be Martha Book #1 of the Martyn Manor Mysteries by Mershon Niesner. Martha proves that turning ninety can be an adventure if you’re willing to take chances and stir up good-trouble.
11. Murder (Maybe) At Martyn Manor Book #2 of the Martyn Manor Mysteries by Mershon Niesner. When Joey Russo is found dead in his apartment, it's up to Martha and her crew of Bizzie Buddies to figure out how he died so Martha can escape the clutches of shady Detective Warren.
12. The Narrowboat Summer by Anne Youngson. Another heartening story about the possibility of striking out in a new direction at any age. A soothing read, especially welcome in these anxious times. Save this one for the summer.