📚✨ January Reads + Ratings (An Elite Lineup Honest
January set the bar offensively high and now I fear nothing will ever compare. Here’s everything I read in order and my completely unbiased (very emotional) ratings:
Fourth Wing ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5/5 stars — absolutely fell in love with this series. The dragons. The tension. The chaos. I was gone immediately.
Iron Flame ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5/5 stars — as a fellow gal with EDS, this one hit differently. It felt empowering and inspiring… and obviously the dragons still have me in a chokehold.
Onyx Storm ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5/5 stars — I am unwell. I am pacing. I am staring at the wall waiting for book 4. That is all.
A Kingdom of Silver Shadows ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4/5 stars — loved the twists and turns in this one. It kept me guessing and I flew through it.
Remarkably Bright Creatures ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5/5 stars — this story meant so much to me. I used to volunteer at an aquarium, so it felt extra special. So tender. So well done.
The Last Letter ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5/5 stars (should’ve been ♾️/5 honestly) — this book broke my heart from beginning to end and I would still recommend it to absolutely everyone.
January = dragons, emotional damage, and zero regrets.
Tell me your favorite read this month because my TBR clearly needs supervision 👀📖✨
January was truly a standout month for me in reading, filled with books that stirred a range of emotions and captivated my imagination. The recurring theme of dragons across several top-rated books like "Fourth Wing," "Iron Flame," and "Onyx Storm" resonated deeply, especially as these creatures symbolize both power and mystery. If you're a fan of fantasy with intense world-building and high stakes, these titles are definitely worth exploring. In particular, I connected with "Iron Flame" on a personal level due to its empowering themes and the representation of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). It’s inspiring to see diverse experiences reflected in fantasy fiction, which makes the stories feel more inclusive and relatable. The intertwining of fantasy elements with real human challenges gave the book an additional layer of depth that I truly appreciated. Taking a break from dragons, "Remarkably Bright Creatures" touched me through its tender storytelling and aquatic setting. My past volunteer work at an aquarium made this story especially meaningful, allowing me to visualize and appreciate the connection between humans and sea creatures. It’s a reminder of the gentle narratives that can evoke powerful empathy and nostalgia. "The Last Letter" was another standout with its heart-wrenching plot and unforgettable impact. Books that make you feel deeply and reflect on the human condition often stay with you long after you finish, and this one certainly did. I love how these emotional narratives can broaden a reader’s perspective and bring light to universal themes. If you’re building your January reading list or searching for recommendations, I highly suggest considering these picks. Each offers a unique experience, whether it’s high-energy fantasy chaos, emotional depth, or captivating twists. For those struggling with their TBR piles, like me, prioritizing books that genuinely resonate can make all the difference in our reading enjoyment. What were your highlights this month? Sharing favorites not only helps organize our reading but also creates a vibrant community of book lovers eager to explore new stories together.
