Top January Book Reviews: Must-Reads for the New Year (2025)

As a mood reader, I dive into different worlds based on how I feel at any moment. There's something exhilarating about starting multiple books at once and getting lost in their stories. I've even found myself finishing a book in a single sitting when the narrative truly captivates me. Here are my top 5-star-rated must-read books for January, organized by genre, not ranked.

Check out "January Reads" for my other reviewed books!

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine 

By Gail Honeyman

Contemporary Fiction / 5 STARS

This story follows Eleanor Oliphant, a socially awkward and solitary woman with a routine-driven life. She works in an office, lives alone, and keeps to herself, but she secretly struggles with a past full of pain and isolation. The story explores her gradual journey toward connection and healing after she starts interacting more with her coworkers and confronting her past. It's a poignant, heartwarming story about loneliness, mental health, and the power of kindness.

Review: This book left me in tears! The characters were richly developed, and the plot was flawless. There's a character for everyone to relate to in this narrative. Although it's somewhat slow-paced, the author compensates with the bonds we form with the protagonist. Certain sections of this book took me by surprise, making it an excellent read.

Yours Truly

By Abby Jimenez

Romance / 5 STARS

A heartwarming romance follows Dr. Briana Ortiz, a talented doctor who finds herself at a crossroads in her life and career. When a heartfelt letter of support leads to an unexpected connection with a new doctor, the two start to form a personal and touching bond while facing difficult life decisions and the possibility of romance. This story explores themes of healing, second chances, and vulnerability, blended with Abby Jimenez's signature humor and emotional depth that pulls at your heartstrings.

Review: I couldn't stop reading this book! The characters, dialogues, realistic struggles, and internal conflicts deeply moved me. It was more than just a romance. You won't regret picking it up.

Assistant to the Villain (BOOK 1)

 By Hannah Nicole

Romantic Comedy / 5 STARS

This is a light-hearted, romantic fantasy novel with a mix of humor, adventure, and some delightful tropes. The story follows the protagonist, a young woman named Livia, who unexpectedly becomes an assistant to a notorious villain, Lord Caelum. As she navigates the challenges of working for someone with such a dark reputation, she uncovers the complexities of his character, realizing that he may not be as evil as he appears. The novel features a slow-burn romance, witty dialogue, and a developing dynamic between Livia and Lord Caelum, blending fantasy, humor, and moments of intrigue. It’s a fun twist on the "villainous" trope, with a focus on character growth and unexpected connections.

Review: This book's concept was outstanding! The dynamic between the moody yet sensitive villain and his charming, quirky assistant is fantastic. The dialogue made me laugh out loud, and the unexpected action was a pleasant surprise. All in all, it was an enjoyable and lighthearted read.

Divine Rivals (BOOK 1)

By Rebecca Ross

Romantic Fantasy / 5 STARS

A fantasy novel set in a world where two rival magical factions, the gods' chosen champions, are in an epic battle for control. The story follows two young protagonists, Iris and Roman, who are caught up in a rivalry. Iris, a talented writer, and Roman, a skilled warrior, are forced into an unexpected relationship when they discover they are connected through a powerful, mystical form of communication: letters that travel between them, revealing secrets and emotions and building an unlikely bond. The book blends romance, magic, and a deep exploration of both personal and larger conflicts, all set against a backdrop of gods, fate, and war. It’s a tale of love, rivalry, and discovering one’s true destiny.

Review: This was a unique kind of magic! I went into this book with no expectations and was thoroughly impressed. It was meant to be an enemies-to-lovers story, but I didn't quite get that impression. The writing was beautiful, offering more than just a love story. The ending left me screaming.

From Blood and Ash (BOOK 1)

By Jennifer L. Armentrout

Fantasy Romance / 5 STARS

This story follows Poppy, a young woman chosen to be the sacred "Maiden," isolated and controlled by strict rules. Her life changes when she meets Hawke, a guard with secrets of his own. As they grow closer, Poppy begins to question her destiny, the prophecy controlling her, and the truth behind the world she's been raised in. The novel blends romance, action, and supernatural twists in a high-stakes, suspenseful story.

Review:

I loved the storyline, the characters, and the gradually developing romance. From the beginning, I had a hunch about who the mysterious guard was, yet I thoroughly enjoyed every part of it. The plot was flawless, 10/10, and I'm eagerly looking forward to the second book.

Blood Over Bright Haven

By M.L. Blackwood

Fantasy / 5 STARS

This fantasy novel combines intrigue, political drama, and a richly constructed world. The story centers around a young woman named Amara, who is trying to navigate the complexities of her power and her place in a world filled with dangerous secrets and conflicts. The book weaves together themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of power. With a mix of magic, tense relationships, and high stakes, it offers a gripping narrative about survival, self-discovery, and the cost of ambition.

Review: The fundamental similarities between race, women's oppression, and government, in reality, make it an engaging and thought-provoking read. I was captivated by the world and its magic. The book's pacing was excellent, balancing detail and plot effectively. It prompts deep questions about the society we inhabit.