Every month, we pick a Book of the Month — a story that stands out for its writing, emotions, and impact. But once a year, it’s time for something bigger — the Book of the Year campaign!
This is more than just a tradition; it’s a way to pause, look back, and celebrate the books that made the year special. Some made us think deeply, some made me cry, and a few became quiet companions during long days. Each one left a mark, but only one truly defined the year.
Holiday Ever After by Hannah Grace
Holiday Ever After by Hannah Grace falls under the Cozy Romance category as it wraps gentle love, festive warmth, and emotional sincerity into a comforting, feel-good reading experience.
Holiday Ever After is one of those cozy, small-town romances that understands the magic of slowing down. Set against a festive backdrop, the story gently blends workplace tension, community warmth, and a romance that unfolds with quiet sincerity rather than grand theatrics. At its heart, it’s about misunderstandings, second chances, and the courage it takes to step out of corporate ambition and into something more human.
What makes this book worth your time is how effortlessly it balances charm with emotional depth. Beyond the holiday cheer and enemies-to-lovers tension, it explores themes of integrity, accountability, and what it means to truly listen—especially when you’ve been wronged. The romance feels earned, the small-town setting feels lived-in, and the story reminds you that success isn’t always about climbing higher; sometimes it’s about finding where you belong. Perfect for readers who want a feel-good read with heart, warmth, and just enough emotional resonance to linger after the last page.
Everyone in the Group Chat Dies by L.M. Chilton
Everyone in the Group Chat Dies by L.M. Chilton fits the Redefined New Age Book category as it reimagines mystery through digital culture, modern anxieties, and the unsettling intimacy of online connections.
Everyone in the Group Chat Dies is a sharply clever blend of dark humour, mystery, and modern anxiety. Set in a seemingly quiet town with a sinister undercurrent, the novel uses something we all know too well—a group chat—to unravel a story that’s as unsettling as it is compulsively readable. The tension builds not through grand gestures, but through messages, silences, and the creeping sense that the past never really stays buried.
What makes this book worth your time is how brilliantly it captures the discomfort of shared secrets and digital intimacy. It plays with guilt, paranoia, and the way friendships fracture when something terrible goes unspoken. The humour is dry, the pacing taut, and the premise refreshingly inventive, making it hard to put down. If you enjoy mysteries that feel contemporary, psychologically sharp, and a little unsettling—stories that mirror our dependence on screens while quietly questioning it—this one deserves a spot on your shelf.
In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
In Five Years by Rebecca Serle comes into the Time Travel category as it uses a glimpse into the future to explore fate, choice, and the emotional weight of what lies ahead.
In Five Years is a quiet, emotionally layered novel that asks a deceptively simple question: how much control do we really have over our lives? Through a single, disorienting glimpse into the future, the story explores love, friendship, ambition, and the invisible threads that shape our choices. It’s less about the shock of the vision and more about the slow, aching reverberations it leaves behind.
What makes this book worth your time is its emotional honesty. It doesn’t rely on grand twists or dramatic declarations; instead, it sits with the discomfort of uncertainty and the grief of expectations not unfolding the way we plan. The relationships—especially female friendship—are written with tenderness and realism, reminding us that not all love stories look the same, or end the way we imagine. This is a book for readers who enjoy introspective narratives, quiet heartbreaks, and stories that linger long after the final page, nudging you to rethink your own five-year plan.
Evil on the Roof of the World by William Elliott Hazelgrove
Evil on the Roof of the World by William Elliott Hazelgrove falls under Adventure with a Hint of Apocalypse as it blends daring exploration with the looming unpredictability of a world that can turn fatal without warning.
Evil on the Roof of the World is a haunting and deeply human story of ambition, love, and the pursuit of a dream. At its heart, it’s about two young people—Lauren Geoghegan and Jay Austin—who left comfortable lives behind to explore the world on bicycles, seeking adventure, freedom, and meaning. What begins as a tale of hope and exploration gradually confronts the stark realities of danger and the fragility of life.
What makes this book worth your time is its remarkable balance between travel adventure and true crime storytelling. Hazelgrove doesn’t sensationalize the tragedy; instead, he paints a vivid portrait of Jay and Lauren’s courage, curiosity, and joy, as well as the profound impact their lives had on those around them. It’s a story that lingers, reminding readers of both the beauty of following your passions and the unpredictability of the world we live in. For anyone drawn to journeys that are inspiring, moving, and ultimately sobering, this book is a meditation on risk, purpose, and the fleetingness of life.
Shadow Particle by Dr. Shirish Narsapur
Shadow Particle by Dr. Shirish Narsapur belongs to the Fast-Paced Sci-Fi category as it fuses cutting-edge science, ethical dilemmas, and relentless momentum into a gripping narrative.
Shadow Particle is a thrilling dive into the intersection of science, memory, and human emotion. At its core, it’s the story of Dr. Nathaniel Kessler, a physicist whose groundbreaking experiments on neutrinos open doors to possibilities most of us only dream about—reliving moments, recovering lost memories, and even mapping genius across generations. But when ambition collides with ethics, the narrative spirals into a tense courtroom drama and a meditation on human choice.
What makes this book worth your time is how it combines high-concept science with deeply human stakes. Unlike many thrillers that rely solely on suspense, Shadow Particle asks the reader to ponder existence, responsibility, and the ripple effects of our actions. It’s fast-paced, intellectually engaging, and emotionally resonant—a rare mix that keeps you thinking long after the last page. Perfect for readers who love speculative fiction with heart, moral complexity, and a pulse-racing story that challenges what we believe about the limits of science and human potential.
From My Heart to Yours by Asif NK Jani
From My Heart to Yours: A Father’s Love Letters to His Daughter by Asif NK Jani fits the Impactful Social Contribution category as it gives voice to parental love, separation, and emotional resilience through deeply personal storytelling.
From My Heart to Yours is a deeply moving exploration of love, loss, and the unbreakable bond between a father and his daughter. Told through 18 intimate letters, the narrative captures the raw, unfiltered emotions of a parent grappling with separation and longing. It’s not just a story of grief—it’s a testament to hope, resilience, and the enduring power of familial love.
What makes this book worth your time is its emotional honesty. Each letter is a window into a father’s heart, evoking universal feelings of attachment, regret, and unwavering devotion. The prose is tender and reflective, making readers pause, empathize, and perhaps even confront their own relationships. This is a book that stays with you, reminding us that love transcends distance and time, and that hope can persist even in the most challenging circumstances. For anyone who cherishes heartfelt, personal stories, this book is a quiet yet profound experience.
Emma: The Curse Unleashed by Raven A. Wolf
Emma: The Curse Unleashed by Raven A. Wolf earns its place as a Book That Feels Like a Work of Art for its rich atmosphere, layered symbolism, and emotionally immersive supernatural narrative.
Emma: The Curse Unleashed is a gripping tale of supernatural suspense and self-discovery. Blending psychic intrigue with family secrets, it follows Emma Ravenwood as she confronts malevolent spirits, a mysterious amulet, and the shadows of her own past. The story doesn’t just scare—it explores resilience, courage, and the ways trauma can shape one’s abilities and destiny.
What makes this book worth your time is how it balances heart-pounding tension with emotional depth. Emma’s journey is both thrilling and relatable: facing fears, uncovering hidden truths, and finding unexpected support along the way. Fans of supernatural fiction will appreciate the layered mythology, while readers drawn to character-driven stories will connect with Emma’s growth and vulnerability. This is a story that lingers—not just for its suspense, but for the exploration of family, legacy, and inner strength that resonates long after the final page.
The Price of Redemption-Redemption Saga Part 1 by Arindam Chakraborty
The Price of Redemption – Redemption Saga Part 1 by Arindam Chakraborty stands as the Most Quotable Book for its introspective lines, moral reflections, and dialogue that lingers long after reading.
The Price of Redemption Saga Part 1 is a sweeping psychological drama that explores the shadows behind ambition, wealth, and the human heart. Following Steve Brown, a man who seemingly has it all yet carries the weight of solitude and secrets, the story weaves a complex tapestry of trauma, manipulation, and the relentless pursuit of redemption. When Rita enters his life, their collision sparks a chain of events that exposes buried pasts, family betrayals, and the true cost of success.
What makes this book worth your time is its unflinching look at the human psyche and the moral compromises that shape our lives. It isn’t just about drama or suspense—it’s about understanding the fragility of our choices, the consequences of power, and the endurance of hope even in the darkest circumstances. Readers who appreciate layered characters, moral complexity, and narratives that span time and place will find themselves captivated. This is a story that challenges you to question: what would you sacrifice for redemption, and is it ever truly achievable?
Finding Home Again: Our Quest to Belong by Richa Sharma
Finding Home Again: Our Quest To Belong by Richa Sharma is crowned the Most Heartwarming Story for its tender exploration of grief, healing, and the quiet search for belonging.
Finding Home Again: Our Quest to Belong is a poignant exploration of displacement, grief, and the deep human yearning for connection. Through the intertwined lives of Mridula, Maya, and Kranti, the novel navigates the aftermath of a tragic train derailment in Assam, examining how personal histories, trauma, and dreams shape our sense of home. It’s a story that moves seamlessly between physical landscapes and the inner terrains of memory, longing, and identity.
What makes this book worth your time is its emotional resonance and its subtle, yet powerful, examination of belonging. Sharma writes with empathy and insight, capturing the fragile balance between past pain and future hope. For readers who value introspective fiction that doesn’t shy away from life’s complexities, this book offers a reflective journey—reminding us that home is not just a place, but a state of being, and that healing often requires navigating the shadows within ourselves.
Domestic Detention by Rodney Pemberton
Domestic Detention by Rodney Pemberton falls under the Non-Fiction Read category as a raw, real-life account of survival, injustice, and unwavering familial courage.
Domestic Detention is a harrowing true story of resilience, courage, and the lengths one will go to protect family. The narrative follows a son’s relentless journey across continents to uncover the truth behind his mother’s disappearance, only to find her trapped in a harrowing situation at the hands of a controlling and abusive husband. Amid this tense and emotional backdrop, the story also shines a light on the small acts of hope and love that sustain people even in the darkest circumstances.
What makes this book worth your time is its raw honesty and emotional intensity. It’s more than a story of survival—it’s a testament to determination, familial bonds, and the human spirit’s refusal to surrender. Readers who appreciate true stories of courage, injustice, and resilience will find themselves gripped, reflecting on both the darkness of abuse and the strength required to confront it. This is a book that challenges, moves, and inspires in equal measure.
The Great Indian Naturist: A Secret Life Unveiled by Pooja Gowda
The Great Indian Naturist: A Secret Life Unveiled by Pooja Gowda claims the Most Thought-Provoking Book category for its fearless challenge to social norms and its honest exploration of personal freedom.
The Great Indian Naturist: A Secret Life Unveiled is an intimate, fearless memoir that explores self-discovery, freedom, and the courage to live authentically. Through her personal journey, Gowda invites readers into a world often hidden and misunderstood, challenging societal norms while embracing vulnerability and self-acceptance. It’s as much about personal liberation as it is about navigating culture, identity, and the quiet rebellions that shape who we are.
What makes this book worth your time is its honesty and boldness. Gowda’s narrative is raw yet reflective, offering a rare glimpse into a life unapologetically lived. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has ever felt constrained by expectations or curious about the paths that lead to true freedom. For readers seeking memoirs that are courageous, thought-provoking, and deeply personal, this book is an invitation to examine your own boundaries—and perhaps, to dare to step beyond them.
Triumphs of Tenacity by Yusra Mariyam
Triumphs of Tenacity by Yusra Mariyam earns the Most Engaging Read title for its inspiring pace, emotional authenticity, and empowering narrative of resilience.
Triumphs of Tenacity is an inspiring memoir of resilience, courage, and the transformative power of perseverance. From her early struggles as a young immigrant in the UK to balancing motherhood with academic ambitions, Mariyam’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved through determination and self-belief. Her story illuminates not only personal growth but also the broader challenges faced by immigrant women pursuing their dreams against the odds.
What makes this book worth your time is its deeply motivational message. It’s more than a memoir—it’s a blueprint for hope, showing how setbacks can be transformed into triumphs when met with persistence and courage. Readers will connect with Mariyam’s honesty, her dedication to education, and her unwavering commitment to building a meaningful life. For anyone seeking empowerment, inspiration, or a reminder that tenacity can truly change the course of a life, this book is a must-read.
As Dark As Blood by Yasser Usman
Tadaa… there’s a wild card too, And it’s thrilling:
As Dark As Blood by Yasser Usman is a gripping, atmospheric crime thriller that plunges you straight into the chilling streets of Darjeeling. Tormented cop Roshan Rana, already grappling with a fractured personal life and a father slipping into dementia, is pulled into a case that spirals far beyond a simple missing-person investigation. As bodies pile up and the stakes rise, the novel masterfully blends suspense, psychological tension, and the emotional weight of past traumas.
What makes this book worth your time is how it doesn’t just deliver a pulse-pounding thriller—it immerses you in the human struggles behind the crime. Roshan’s battle with his personal demons runs parallel to his hunt for a cunning psychopath dismantling a community piece by piece. Usman crafts a narrative that is as emotionally charged as it is chilling, keeping readers on edge while also inviting them to reflect on memory, loss, and morality. For fans of crime fiction that’s smart, intense, and deeply human, this one is impossible to put down.
As Dark As Blood fits the Thriller with Impactful Contribution category as it delivers high-stakes crime fiction while deeply engaging with themes of loss, and moral consequence.
The Book of the Year isn’t just a title—it’s a tribute to the stories that stayed with us long after the last page was turned. This year, our reading journey introduced us to worlds full of emotion, adventure, mystery, and courage.
From cozy romance to gripping thrillers, unforgettable memoirs to inspirational journeys, here are the stories that captured our hearts:
-
Holiday Ever After by Hannah Grace
-
Everyone in the Group Chat Dies by L.M. Chilton
-
In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
-
Evil on the Roof of the World by William Elliott Hazelgrove
-
Shadow Particle by Dr. Shirish Narsapur
-
From My Heart to Yours: A Father’s Love Letters to His Daughter by Asif NK Jani
-
Emma: The Curse Unleashed by Raven A. Wolf
-
The Price of Redemption – Redemption Saga Part 1 by Arindam Chakraborty
-
Finding Home Again: Our Quest To Belong by Richa Sharma
-
Domestic Detention by Rodney Pemberton
-
The Great Indian Naturist: A Secret Life Unveiled by Pooja Gowda
-
Triumphs of Tenacity by Yusra Mariyam
And Tadaa… our wild card entry that kept our hearts racing:
-
As Dark As Blood by Yasser Usman
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined in, shared their favorite picks, and celebrated stories with me month after month. Here’s to another year of words that move us, books that find us when we need them most, and the endless joy of reading. ✨
Credits:
-
Ms. Mili Das – Editor and the main support behind this journey. For bookish talks and insights, follow her here
-
Dr. Monidipa Dutta – Owner, mental health counselor, trainer, and lifelong book lover, bringing together stories that inspire, challenge, and move us. Follow her here for a mix of books, psychology, and everything in between
-
Editing Team of With Love Moni – Who relentlessly read, reviewed, and polished each book to perfection. Follow them here
