Looking back over 2024–2025, it’s been another year of mixed reads – some easy, compulsive page-turners, a few heavier, thought-provoking ones, and plenty of books that kept us chatting long after the pages were closed. It was a year of variety: books that made us laugh, books that made us think, and books that just gave us a fun escape.
The Housemaid – ⭐️⭐️⭐️ by Freida McFadden
A proper supermarket thriller, easy to pick up and impossible to put down. The suspense didn’t always hit the mark, but somehow we still felt compelled to keep reading. Light, entertaining, and perfect for a quick read.
Fortune Teller – ⭐️⭐️ by Caroline Lea
An enjoyable page-turner, even if the pacing was a bit uneven. Plenty of twists towards the end kept us hooked, though the conclusion felt a little abrupt. Fun for discussion, even if it wasn’t a standout.
Yellowface – ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ by R.F. Kuang
A unique story that got better as it went along. The plot kept us guessing, even if the characters weren’t always easy to love. Definitely one of the year’s highlights, sparking conversation and keeping everyone engaged.
The Island of Missing Trees – ⭐️⭐️⭐️ by Elif Shafak
Blending a love story with cultural and historical layers, this one was reflective and absorbing. The lyrical style wasn’t to everyone’s taste, but it led to a lovely, in-depth conversation at book club, reminding us that sometimes the discussion a book creates is just as valuable as the read itself.
In Memoriam – ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ by Alice Winn
Despite its fairly heavy subject matter, this one was surprisingly accessible. It sparked thoughtful discussion about its themes and the way the story was told. Engaging characters kept us turning pages, making it a thoughtful and rewarding addition to the year’s pile.
The Skeleton Key – ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ by Erin Kelly
Another engaging read with a strong plot and some compelling themes. While most of us didn’t warm to the lead character, the story itself kept everyone hooked. It was a book that encouraged conversation and reflection, and overall, we really enjoyed it.
Looking Back
Overall, this year was a mix of comfort reads, surprises, and books that challenged us in small ways. We leaned into stories that were easy to get into but still gave us plenty to discuss, and there were moments of laughter, debate, and the occasional “I couldn’t put this down!” feeling. Not every book was a masterpiece, but the variety made it a rich and enjoyable year for our book club.
Here’s hoping 2025 – 2026 brings just as many laughs, debates, and page-turners.