I’m still trying to find a way to streamline the process of picking out a favorite book of the year. It hasn’t worked this year either. This exercise takes just as long and is as exhausting as previous years.
The CE has relaxed a bit on his reading but he still had several that hit the top of the list. I listened to more audiobooks while struggling to get the ebooks read from a wide variety of genres from #cozyanimalmysteries to #historicalfiction. Still struggling with challenges, I managed only two of four this year. My December Recap will have details on the Challenges as well as Goodreads stats.
Links on titles are to my review, which will include source and purchase information.
Jan –All We Thought We Knew by Michelle Shocklee – The writing style is gripping. There are twists. There are themes of the futility of war, the physiological and psychological damage to those involved and the resulting damage to the family unit as well as the community.
Feb – Guardian of the Crossroads by Melanie Forde – The author is a powerful storyteller. This is one of those stories that is laid out carefully, quietly, and then bestows a “wow” mystical factor at the end. Whether or not you believe in paranormal abilities, the narrative will leave you satisfied.
Mar – Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen – Yes, it’s frankly honest, can be cruel and disturbing. But the tale it tells is mesmerizing, page-turning, and tension-filled right up until the rewarding denouement.
Apr – Watchers by Dean Koontz – Yes, there is a lab dog but I don’t mean Labrador—I mean laboratory and Travis realizes this is not a dog he can return. Unfortunately, the same lab that spawned him also spawned his opposite.
May – Nightshade by Michael Connelly – The story has many twists and turns as everyone seems innocent but someone must have tried to destroy evidence. The author shares many interesting detective techniques and the storyline is intriguing and entertaining. (A CE review)
Jun –How to Hotwire an Airplane by Henry Rausch – The novel carries themes of compassion, courage, and redemption. A unique and emotional tale of liberation more than political commentary. The action-packed climax is satisfying and provides closure as well as food for thought.
Jul – Bits and Pieces by Whoopi Goldberg – Whether or not you’ve been a fan of Whoopi (nee Caryn Johnson), reading this book may enhance your respect or create a new fan.
Aug – Endurance by Alfred Lansing – Amazingly creative in discovering ways and means for their survival and one you shouldn’t miss. I particularly recommend the audiobook beautifully performed by the narrator.
Sept – The Tenth Trail Mark by Joe Looby – The 10th Mountain Division was instrumental in winning the war in Europe. This book is an excellent review of the hardships faced and overcome by a very special group of American soldiers. (A CE review)
Oct – The Night Fire by Michael Connelly – Always complex, each installment brings a fresh storyline and keeps a strong pace that doesn’t lag in the middle. Strong characters are not above slightly bending rules when the case warrants, whether or not they’ll face consequences.
Nov – A Walk Among Heroes by James McDevitt – James McDevitt provides a very clear picture of the brotherhood of men in arms. It is a testament to those who have served and watched the sacrifice of someone who saves the life of a fellow soldier. (A CE review)
Dec – See Rosepoint Reviews – December Recap which will be posted on New Years Day to see the December winner!
Summary
I loved Water for Elephants and Whoopi’s memoir. The CE tends to generous star reviews and I provided three here, noting how glued he was to these selections, two of which are historical fiction. The third is a Michael Connelly novel and I listed one of his books as well, obviously a favorite author for us both. But for sheer edge-of-your-seat page-turning excitement, you’d be hard pressed to find one more so than Endurance. 
It left me breathless with a strong case of Book Hangover. I’m not sure what that says of my choice, as my favorite novel of 2024 was The Wager by David Grann, a remarkably similar historical sailing account, albeit a story taking place a couple centuries apart.
Favorite novel of 2025 – Endurance by Alfred Lansing, narrated by Simon Prebble. Born 1942 in Croydon, UK, Prebble is a British-American narrator. He received an Audie in 2010.
Invitation
I’m sure you read at least one of the above books, perhaps more? I’d love to see which of your 2025 books became your favorite of the year! Please send me your title and link by January 20 and I’ll create a post including your pick.
©2025 V Williams
Rosepoint Publishing 
I really liked Endurance, but couldn’t get into Wager. Water for Elephants was a tough read, but I really liked it as well. I don’t post a top anything list, as I can’t decide. I read too many books to pick out my top ones. I do love to see what others enjoyed though, as I add many to my TBR shelf. I have How to Hotwire an Airplane on there already, I added it after reading your review.
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Someone else recently recommended Whoopi’s book. I’ll have yo look for it! Good list!
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Whoopi’s mother was absolutely amazing. We should all have the same.
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I second that, Virginia. She was a wonderful mom who gave Whoopi a great start in life.
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Indeed!
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Smart mother, loving, and brilliantly introduced her children to knowledge, resources, and independence. I’m in awe.
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We already discussed how much we liked the Endurance book. I first read that one in 5th grade! I read Water for elephants a few years ago, and it is so good. I really need to read it again. :)
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I’m just slow–finding some of these books now–not sure how I ever missed them. Must have been during my romance period…or gothic period…or crime fiction period. now it seems i’m in the historical fiction period–it’s a good one.
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