I was able to read 44 books in 2025. It was very hard to craft this list because I read so many good ones, but here are my top 10 books of 2025.
10. Can’t Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan
This was the third installment of the Skyland series. While it is not my favorite of the trio, I do think Kennedy Ryan has such a distinct writing style that is comforting. While this was not my favorite of the trio, I did enjoy it and would recommend this title to others. Kennedy Ryan is also one of those authors that I will read anything they write.
9. Before the Streetlights Come on by Ashley Antoinette
I have followed Ashley Antoinette’s writing career for years. While I do not like that her catalog is not available on free services, like the library or Kindle Unlimited, I can say it was worth the money that I spent.
8. Matriarch by Tina Knowles
I am a certified Beyhive member so of course I would support the origin of it all.I loved the way that Ms. Tina wrote this story. She gave us the history and the foundations of who she is, interweaving her personal story. Many people went into this book thinking they would get an expose on Beyonce and that is the furthest thing. This is Tina’s story and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I also attended Tina’s book tour stop in Los Angeles, which was an added touch to experiencing the book.
7. Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson
I connected with this story because I understand how family dynamics change when losing a sibling/family member. Charmaine Wilkerson has subtly become one of those authors that has been added to my list of auto-reads. I hope they also make this into a limited series as they did with Black Cake by her as well.
6. Harlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher Murray
This year I definitely focused on reading more historical fiction. After seeing this title everywhere, I finally was able to get a chance to read it and I am so glad that I did. It was nice to read how Harlem became the mecca for Black creatives. Most importantly, I love how this was a story of choosing yourself. Love is cool and all but you really need to look out for yourself more than anything.
5. These Heathens by Mia McKenzie
One of my toxic book traits is that I do not read book blurbs. I kept seeing this book cover everywhere and the glowing reviews so, of course, I had to see for myself, and yes read it! The writing is witty, the story is fresh and truly not like anything I’ve ever read. It also had a hint of mess on it so I was all in!
4. Sweet Heat by Bolu Babalola
Honey & Spice was one of my favorites when I read it and made me fall in love with Bolu Babalola’s writing style. Her writing is familiar, almost like talking with a friend, particularly how she interweaves pop culture into the story. Often times the sequel is never as good as the first one but Babalola was able to make this story just as good as the first.
3. The Wedding People by Alison Espach
I’d imagine if I were trying to off myself, getting caught up in a weekend of wedding activities would be the last thing that I would want to interact with. That simple premise kept me engaged in this book until the very end. The writing was witty and funny which I always enjoy. For me, this story illuminated the need for others and the importance of human connection.
2. Junie by Erin Crosby Eckstine
Slave stories could be a repellant but I implore you to give this story a chance. It is more of a love story than anything and, as the reader, you are constantly championing for Junie. This was my first 5 star read of last year.
1. James by Percival Everett
I am absolutely obsessed with this book. There is something so magical about what Percival Everett was able to do with the story of Huckleberry Finn that didn’t feed into any stereotypes while still feeling fresh. I absolutely devoured this book and would recommend it to anyone that would listen. The book is in talks to be adapted for screen with some heavy hitter names accompanying it! I look forward to what comes from this because I really loved this book.
