My Favorite Books of 2025
“No man can be called friendless who has God and the companionship of good books.” — Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Isn’t it true? A good book can be like spending the day with a friend.
Have you ever finished reading a book and somehow felt more understood than when you started? I love books like that. And then there are books that stretch you — the ones that make you think differently, see more clearly, and grow in ways you didn’t expect. I love those, too. And of course, there are books that teach you something new about the world, about people, about yourself.
And every once in a while, you find a book that leaves such an impression that you’re convinced the whole wide world should read it. Those are the ones I often go back to again and again.
This year, I read books in all of those categories — books that showed up in my life at just the right time, like a good friend does.
Being human is hard. Leading is hard. Loving Jesus and trying to live with clarity, courage, and emotional health in a complicated world can be hard. These books helped ways I didn’t expect. I’ve linked them below in case one of them might help you, too.
Side note: There are affiliate links in the list. I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
The Books
1. The Let Them Theory (Mel Robbins)
This book felt like the real talk every girl needs when she gets stuck trying to take responsibility for all the things. Control issues, anyone? Fear of being misunderstood? Yeah… me too. Mel leads with a simple idea: let people be who they are, and you be who you are. That brings a surprising amount of freedom.
This one is especially helpful for the people-pleasers in the room. Or if you’re the kind of person who replays conversations, worries about how things came across, or feels responsible for managing other people’s emotions.
2. Cues (Vanessa Van Edwards)
This book made me laugh out loud more than once. It is all about the subtle signals (or cues) that we send and receive during a social interaction.It is fascinating, funny, relatable, and practical. If you are a communication nerd like me, you will love this.
3. A Jesus Shaped Life (Lisa Harper)
Lisa Harper makes complex theological ideas feel like a conversation with a wise, funny friend over coffee. I laughed. I cried. I smiled. By the end, I was filled with awe and gratitude for Jesus.
This book reminded me how our theology shows up in our everyday lives. And, that’s an important reminder!
4. A Healthy Calling (Arianna Molloy)
This one felt like a deep exhale. It speaks honestly about the emotional and spiritual weight of calling — the parts people don’t always talk about. Dr. Molloy is wise, compassionate, and real. Burnout is no joke. But healing is possible, and this book helps you understand all of it. I’m so grateful I found this book when I did.
5. Unreasonable Hospitality (Will Guidara)
This book is such a beautiful picture of what it looks like to go above and beyond for people. It is about creating experiences that make others feel seen, valued, and cared for in unexpected ways.
Even though it is not a Christian leadership book, the principles reflect the heart of the Kingdom. It made me rethink hospitality in my home and how I show up for people in everyday moments.It also made me want to take a trip to NYC and go to Eleven Madison Park!
6. The Next Conversation (Jefferson Fisher)
Practical, reassuring, and incredibly helpful if you tend to overthink what to say (or replay what you already said). This book offers simple frameworks for navigating hard or important conversations calmly and with clarity. And that’s something we could all benefit from.
7. Throne of Glass Series (Sarah J. Maas)
I added some fiction back into the mix this year. And, this series completely swept me off my feet. I loved it — truly. It’s full of courage, loyalty, sacrifice, resilience, and the slow, brave becoming of a woman who learns who she is and what she’s willing to fight for. So many nights I stayed up far too late reading just one more chapter! I read the entire series in just a few months. I loved the story, the characters, and the brilliant writing. If you love strong female leads, rich world-building, and can’t-put-it-down stories, this series is a must read.
One Last Thing
I did something this year I said I’d never do… I bought a Kindle.
And not only did I buy one, I love it. It’s lightweight, easy on the eyes, and it’s pink (yay!). I still love the feel of a real book in my hands, but somehow reading felt easier this year. And, I’m here for it!
Your turn!
Have you read any of these books? What’s on your 2026 reading list? I’d love to know. I’m always looking for my next great read.