5 Books to Kickstart Your Reading Goals in 2025

The new year is upon us, and it’s time to kickstart our reading goals for 2025. We can’t think of a better way to embrace 2025 than with a list of incredible books to inspire, motivate, and captivate you!

The Ultimate New Year Book List

Whether you’re diving into a reading challenge (we have just the perfect one!), playing book bingo, or simply aiming to turn the page on a new habit, these five must-reads will help you hit the ground running. From transformative memoirs to heartwarming fiction and actionable self-help, there’s something here for everyone!

Educated by Tara Westover

Educated by Tara Westover is the perfect place to start if you’re looking for a story of resilience and self-discovery. This powerful memoir chronicles Tara’s journey from growing up in an isolated, survivalist family in Idaho to earning a PhD from Cambridge University—all without any formal education before the age of 17.

Through her gripping and emotional storytelling, Tara sheds light on the transformative power of education and the difficult choices we make to carve our own paths. If your 2025 goals involve pushing past limitations and seeking personal growth, this book will inspire you every step of the way.

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore

For fans of complex mysteries and family dramas, The God of the Woods by Liz Moore delivers one of those stories you won’t want to put down. Set in a summer camp plagued by tragedy, the disappearance of Barbara Van Laar unearths secrets about her wealthy family and the surrounding community.

Liz Moore expertly incorporates themes of love, inheritance, identity, and second chances into a compelling narrative that will have you hooked from page one. It’s the perfect read for those who enjoy layered stories with emotional depth and suspense.

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

Take a step into World War II France with Kristin Hannah’s breathtaking novel, The Nightingale. This unforgettable story of two sisters—one a headstrong member of the Resistance, the other a mother fighting to keep her family alive under Nazi occupation—celebrates the resilience and courage of women during one of history’s darkest periods.

With its richly drawn characters and emotional depth, The Nightingale is a must-read for anyone looking to be moved by tales of love, survival, and the human spirit. If your goal this year is to read books that stay with you long after you turn the final page, this one is a top contender.

Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi

If you’ve ever wondered what you would change if you could travel back in time, Before the Coffee Gets Cold offers a poignant and whimsical exploration of that question. Set in a small Tokyo café with the power to send its customers back in time, this novel introduces four visitors, each with a deeply personal reason for making the journey.

Combining magical realism with heartfelt storytelling, Kawaguchi’s novel is perfect for readers who appreciate stories of love, loss, and second chances. Start your 2025 reading journey with this gem to remind yourself of the beauty in connection and the moments that shape us.

Book Lovers by Emily Henry

And last but not least, if you’re looking for the perfect book to kick off your reading goals with a fun and easy read, Book Lovers by Emily Henry is a delightful choice that will remind you why you love books so much.

We loved the witty banter, heartfelt moments, and small-town charm! Book Lovers is a must-read for romance fans and anyone looking for a bit of light-hearated escape. Nora Stephens is a no-nonsense literary agent who agrees to a small-town getaway with her sister, Libby. Instead of a relaxing escape, Nora repeatedly bumps into Charlie Lastra, a brooding editor. What starts as tension quickly turns into an unexpected connection that challenges everything they thought they knew about themselves.

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Set the tone for 2025 with these inspiring reads, and let your reading resolutions flourish. Here’s to a year filled with great stories, personal growth, and unforgettable moments between the pages. Happy reading!