Book Bloggers’ Picks: One Must-Read Book We Loved This Year

There’s something magical about discovering your next great read through a fellow book lover’s recommendation. Whether it’s a story that broke your heart, a novel that made you laugh out loud, or a book that reminded you why you love reading in the first place, those personal favourites always stay with us.

This year, I’ve invited a few wonderful book bloggers from across the community to share one must-read book that truly stood out for them. From heartwarming contemporary fiction to gripping thrillers, these are the stories that made a lasting impression.

So, put the kettle on, settle in, and get ready to add a few more titles to your reading list — because these are the books we couldn’t stop thinking about.

Disclosure: The FTC Disclosure Provision is a law that requires influencers to disclose when they are being paid to promote a product or service. So please know that if I'm not making money through affiliate links/sponsored content on the post you're currently reading, it's an oversight on my part and will be corrected soon. Read the full disclosure about all the legal stuff here.

Must-Read Books Recommended by Bloggers

My Pick: The Summer Dare by Joanna Dodd. 

About the book:

Why You Should Read It:

"You know when a book catches you a bit off guard – in the best possible way? That was my experience with The Summer Dare by Joanna Dodd. I went in with no real expectations and came out with plenty to think about. It’s one of those stories that quietly gets under your skin – not loud or flashy, but full of little moments that stay with you."

Read my full review of The Summer Dare here.

Blogger: Sifa from Sifa Elizabeth Reads

Her Pick: That'll Teach Her by Maz Evans 

About the book:

Why You Should Read It:

“One of my favourite books this year that I don't hear enough people talking about! This is a murder mystery where the parents' group chat get sleuthing!”

Check out her full review of That'll Teach Her here.

Find Sifa online: @SifaPoulton

Blogger: Meshi from Twirling Book Princess

Her Pick:  I Got Abducted by Aliens and Now I'm Trapped in a Rom-Com by Kimberly Lemming

About the book:

A hilarious and sexy romance about a woman who gets dropped on a strange planet only to fall for not one, but two, aliens, from the author of I Got Drunk and Yeeted a Love Potion at a Werewolf.

Why You Should Read It:

“Chaos. There is a lot of things going on and at times I was just running along laughing and giggling and wondering if things could get even more chaotic. And yes, yes that was possible. If you thought getting abducted by aliens, landing on a planet, getting mates, then a whole plot with aliens coming after you + evil (or are they) aliens trying to capture you and your mates, not to mention all the dinosaurs. Be prepared to get chaos-fied. But in a good way.”

Check out her full review of I Got Abducted by Aliens and Now I'm Trapped in a Rom-Com here.

Find Mehsi online: @Mehsi_Hime

Blogger: Ester from Cozy with Books

Her Pick:  Hard Reset by Rachel E. Beck

About the book:

Glitch is out of options. The money has run out, her old enemy is closing in, and winter in Neosaka threatens her survival. When an old acquaintance calls to offer her a job that will solve all her problems, Glitch knows it's a trick to lure her out into the open. Unfortunately, she's going to have to take it anyway.

Why You Should Read It:

“It felt like I just started and already devoured the entire book… Every time The Glitch Log series makes it onto my upcoming TBR, it’s always amongst my most anticipated reads of the year and they never fail me either.”

Check out her full review of Hard Reset here.

Find Ester online: @BooksCozy

Blogger: Carol from Reading Ladies

Her Pick:  The Correspondent by Virginia Evans

About the book:

Throughout her life Sybil Van Antwerp has used letters to make sense of the world and her place in it. Most mornings around half past ten Sybil sits down to write letters—to her brother, to her best friend, to the president of the university who will not allow her to audit a class she desperately wants to take, to Joan Didion and Larry McMurtry to tell them what she thinks of their latest books, and to one person to whom she writes often yet never sends the letter.

Why You Should Read It:

“The Correspondent is a compelling, character-driven story. I found it unputdownable and read it in two days. I love complicated, complex, and unique characters, and Sybil has secured a spot on my list of favorites.”

Check out her full review of The Correspondent here.

Find Carol online: @ReadingLadiesBC

Blogger: Cat from The Strawberry Post

Her Pick:  Bad Badger – A Love Story by Maryrose Wood & Giulia Ghigini

About the book:

For fans of Odder and Skunk and Badger comes a heartwarming story of an unlikely friendship between a gull and a badger.

Why You Should Read It:

“It’s a fun story with a beautiful message of acceptance and friendship. It’s also just a brilliant and slightly different story to anything I’ve ever read before, Septimus’s character will really grow on you, as will Gully’s, and it’s a delightfully illustrated book which I’m sure many children (and older) will enjoy reading and a favourite of mine I’ll certainly be reading again.”

Check out her full review of Bad Badger – A Love Story here.

Find Cat online: @TStrawberryPost

Blogger: Annie from Left on the Shelf

Her Pick:  The Self-Made Saint by Alexandra Addams

About the book:

Judith Drainger has always played life by her own rules. But these days life seems to be playing her right back.

Why You Should Read It:

“I enjoyed being immersed in the environment and the characters, both Judith and those around her. The Australian setting was perfect and well portrayed. This was a fabulous book to read.”

Check out her full review of The Self-Made Saint here.

Find Annie online: @leftontheshelf1

From heartwarming contemporary novels to thrilling mysteries and delightfully quirky stories, these must-read books of the year showcase the incredible range of fiction that captivated readers in 2025. Whether you’re looking for your next page-turner, a story that will make you laugh or cry, or a book that will stay with you long after the last page, these blogger picks are sure to inspire your TBR.

We’d love to know — what’s your must-read book of the year? Drop your recommendation in the comments with your pick! Let’s keep the bookish conversation going.

Gifts for Readers: 50+ Ideas Book Lovers Actually Want

Here’s a complete guide of over 50 gift ideas that book lovers will genuinely appreciate.

Classic & Special Edition Books

Classic novels and beautifully bound editions make wonderful gifts. They’re timeless, elegant, and perfect for curling up with in a favourite nook.

• Pride and Prejudice — Elegant editions of timeless classics never go out of style.

• The Picture of Dorian Gray — A must-have for any lover of classic literature.

• Jane Eyre — A beautiful edition makes this timeless story even more special.

• Little Women — Collector’s editions are perfect for fans of literary classics.

• To Kill a Mockingbird — A giftable edition for book lovers of all ages.

• Harry Potter Box Set — Ideal for fans or newcomers to the series.

Personalised & Luxury Accessories

Little touches can make reading feel extra special. These personalised gifts add a thoughtful, intimate touch that readers will adore.

• Premium Leather Notebook Cover — Ideal for jotting down favourite quotes, reflections, or reading notes.

• Custom Library Embosser / “Ex Libris” Stamp — Let them mark their books with “From the Library of …” for a curated personal library.

• Book-Themed Candles or Decor — Turn reading corners into cosy, immersive spaces.

• Reading Journal or Luxury Notebook — Perfect for tracking TBR lists, favourite quotes, and book reviews.

• Personalised Bookplates — Elegant way to mark ownership.

• Literary Tote Bag — Carry books in style.

• Decorative Bookends — Functional and beautiful for shelves.

• Bookish Pins or Enamel Badges — Fun accessories for readers.

• Literary Wall Art / Print — Beautiful typography or book quotes for their reading nook.

• Custom Bookmark — Engraved with a name or favourite quote.

• Literary Notebook Set — Different sizes or themed notebooks for various reading notes.

Premium Reading Tech

For readers who enjoy e-books or want to carry an entire library on the go, tech gifts can be both practical and luxurious.

• Kobo Clara BW e-Reader — Affordable, sleek, and portable for on-the-go reading.

• Kobo Sage e-Reader — Advanced features and larger screen make this a splurge-worthy gift for serious readers.

• Kindle Paperwhite — Popular, waterproof e-reader.

• Tablet Stand or Reading Holder — Ideal for hands-free reading.

• Waterproof e‑Reader Cover / Case — Perfect for someone who likes to read near the bath, by the pool, or outdoors without worrying about splashes.

• Rechargeable Clip‑On Book Light (USB‑C / USB‑A) — A handy little light for reading physical books, especially in low light or at night. Great for people who love reading before bed.

• Adjustable Floor Reading Lamp with Warm Light — For those cosy reading corners: a lamp with adjustable height/angle and warm, eye‑friendly light makes a reading nook feel like a personal haven.

• Compact Bluetooth Headphones / Noise‑Cancelling Earbuds — Ideal for audiobooks, reading music or ambient noise playlists while reading, especially during travel or in noisy spaces.

• Audiobook Subscription Gift Voucher — If your reader enjoys audiobooks, a subscription to a service (or a gift card for one) makes a thoughtful tech‑adjacent present.

• Smart Speaker (for Audiobooks / Reading Aloud) — Enables hands‑free listening to audiobooks, podcasts, or poetry — handy for cooking or relaxing when reading physically isn’t possible.

• E‑Ink Note‑Taking Tablet — A good choice for readers who like to annotate, journal thoughts or sketch while reading (especially for non-fiction, study, or note‑heavy reading).

• Adjustable Tablet / E‑Reader Stand with Rotation — Allows comfortable hands‑free reading whether in bed, on sofa, or at a desk — especially useful for larger tablets or heavy devices.

• Blue‑Light Filtering Glasses — Helpful for those who read on e‑readers or tablets regularly and want to reduce eye strain during long reading sessions.

• Portable Reading Light / Book Light Power Bank Hybrid — A combination reading light + power bank: practical for travellers, commuters or anyone reading on the go.

• E‑Reader / Tablet Stylus + Smart Note‑taking App — For readers who like marking quotes, taking notes, or journalling thoughts alongside reading — works especially well with e‑ink tablets or tablets in general.

• Portable Solar Charger — Perfect for outdoor reading adventures.

Cosy & Thoughtful Reading Essentials

Reading is an experience — and a few extra comforts make it even more enjoyable.

• Luxury Blankets & Throws — For curling up with a book on chilly days.

• Bookish Mugs — Pair with a favourite tea or coffee.

• Bookmarks & Reading Lights — Small, thoughtful gifts that every book lover will use.

• Comfy Reading Socks — Perfect for cold days.

• Lap Desk or Pillow — Supports reading in bed or on the sofa.

• Tea or Coffee Sampler — Enhance the reading ritual.

• Bookish Throw Pillow — Fun and comfy addition to a reading corner.

• Hot Water Bottle with Bookish Cover — Comfort for winter reading sessions.

• Reading Glasses Chain — Stylish and practical.

 Ready-Made Gift Sets

If you’re short on time, pre-packaged gift boxes for readers can be a lifesaver. Many include candles, bookmarks, mugs, and small reading accessories — perfect for gifting immediately.

• Reading Enthusiast Gift Box — All-in-one gift ready to delight any reader.

• Book & Candle Combo Sets — A relaxing reading experience.

• “Literary Treats” Hampers — Chocolates, tea, and reading essentials included.

• Subscription Boxes — Monthly book subscription or bookish goodies.

Extra Luxury & Experience-Driven Ideas

For a book lover who seems to have everything, consider gifts that are thoughtful, unique, or even experiential:

• Signed or Limited Edition Copies — Collectible books are treasured by serious readers.

• Book Nooks / Miniature Dioramas — Decorative additions to bookshelves for whimsical charm.

• Literary Experience Days — Tickets for author talks, literary festivals, or historic libraries.

• Literary-Themed Travel Experiences — Stay in a bookish hotel or historic literary town.

• Private Author Q&A or Zoom Session — For the avid reader who loves insights from writers.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Book-Lover Gift

1. Mix & Match: Pair a book with a cosy accessory and a personalised item for a complete gift.

2. Offer Budget Tiers: Include options for small, thoughtful gifts as well as luxurious splurges.

3. Focus on Experience: Emphasise comfort, ritual, and personalisation — gifts that make reading feel like a treat.

4. Bundle Ideas: “Reading Survival Kits” (book + blanket + mug + bookmark) are always a hit.

Final Thoughts

Gift-giving for book lovers doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether you choose a collector’s edition, a cosy accessory, or a personalised notebook, the best gifts enhance their love of reading and make the experience more special.

As a book lover myself, I can tell you that the little touches — from a beautiful edition to a comfy reading nook — make a huge difference. I hope this list inspires you to find something meaningful for the readers in your life — and maybe treat yourself too!

If you’re looking for more reading inspiration, don’t forget to check out my book reviews here.

If you’re looking for even more bookish gift inspiration, don’t miss my December Sponsors Round-Up! I’ve highlighted some fantastic picks from Bookish Queen that any reader would love. Check it out here for extra festive ideas!

Healthy Holiday Survival Guide for Fitness Beginners

Simple tips to help you enjoy the season without losing your balance.

The holidays are meant to feel magical—cosy gatherings, delicious food, festive lights, and time with loved ones. But for many fitness beginners, December can also feel overwhelming. Routines slip, food becomes abundant, plans stack up, stress rises, and suddenly the new year arrives with a sense of “I need to start all over again.”

It doesn’t have to be that way. With a few simple strategies, you can enjoy the festive season fully and stay connected to your health goals. No restriction, no guilt—just balance, awareness, and kindness towards yourself.

Disclosure: The FTC Disclosure Provision is a law that requires influencers to disclose when they are being paid to promote a product or service. So please know that if I'm not making money through affiliate links/sponsored content on the post you're currently reading, it's an oversight on my part and will be corrected soon. Read the full disclosure about all the legal stuff here.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. The information provided on www.JoLinsdell.com does not, and is not intended to, constitute medical advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only.

Here’s your beginner-friendly healthy holiday survival guide.

1. Practice Gentle Portion Control (Without Feeling Deprived)

The goal isn’t to avoid festive food—it’s to enjoy it mindfully.

Try these simple tips:

• Use the “one plate rule.” Fill a plate once and enjoy it slowly.

• Choose your favourites. Don’t waste calories on foods you don’t love.

• Eat slowly. Savouring your food helps you feel satisfied sooner.

• Balance your plate. Include some protein and veggies alongside the treats.

• Stay hydrated. We often confuse thirst with hunger, especially in winter.

Remember: you’re not “being bad” for enjoying holiday food. It’s part of the experience.

2. Stay Active in Small, Realistic Ways

December isn’t the time to attempt a huge fitness transformation. Instead, aim for consistency over intensity.

Easy movement ideas for beginners:

• 10–15 minute walks

• Stretching before bed

• A quick YouTube workout

• Marching on the spot while watching TV

• Light strength exercises using body-weight

• Dance around the kitchen while cooking (a personal favourite of mine)

These little movements truly add up, helping you feel energised and keeping your routine alive.

If you’d like a few tools to make these gentle movements even easier, a comfortable yoga mat or light resistance bands can be brilliant for beginners.

3. Manage Stress with Simple Daily Moments of Calm

Holiday stress is real—shopping, social events, family dynamics, financial pressure, and endless to-do lists can take a toll.

Simple ways to reduce stress:

• Short walks (great for clearing your head)

• Gentle stretching

• 3–5 minutes of slow breathing

• A quiet cup of tea before the day starts

• Writing a short gratitude list

• Spending time outdoors

• Saying no when you need to

When stress is lower, overeating and emotional eating often become easier to manage too.

Tools like a mindfulness journal, meditation cushion, or even a small aromatherapy diffuser can help create a calming daily ritual during the busy holiday season.

4. Avoid Holiday Burnout by Setting Boundaries

Beginners often struggle with trying to do everything perfectly—hosting, cooking, visiting, shopping, creating memories—only to end up exhausted.

Your permission slip to avoid burnout:

• You don’t have to attend every event.

• You don’t have to cook everything from scratch.

• You don’t have to say yes to every invite.

• You don’t have to make everything “perfect.”

Protecting your energy protects your health.

5. Make Simple, Supportive Food Swaps

Healthy doesn’t mean boring. Here are some easy, beginner-friendly swaps:

• Sparkling water with fruit instead of sugary drinks

• Veggie sticks with dip instead of crisps

• Lighter desserts or smaller portions

• Roasted veg alongside main meals

• Lean proteins to keep you fuller

• A small handful of nuts to prevent overeating later

Small changes help you enjoy everything without going overboard.

A fruit infuser water bottle makes it easy to stay hydrated and enjoy refreshing drinks without added sugar, while portion-control plates can help keep servings in check.

Looking for motivation to stay on track? Check out these quotes that make clean eating feel empowering

6. Plan a Few “Anchor Habits” for December

Anchor habits are small routines that keep you grounded, even during chaotic periods.

Try choosing 2 or 3 of the following:

• Daily morning glass of water

• A 10-minute walk

• One nutritious meal a day

• Stretching before bed

• Taking your vitamins

• Keeping a bedtime routine

These tiny habits help you stay connected to your health goals without feeling overwhelmed.

Small tools like a daily vitamin organiser, habit tracker, or step-counting fitness tracker can make it easier to maintain your anchor habits consistently.

7. Ditch the Guilt and Enjoy Yourself

One of the biggest traps beginners fall into is guilt—eating one big meal and thinking the whole season is “ruined.”

What matters is what you do most of the time, not what happens occasionally.

Give yourself permission to:

• Enjoy food

• Rest when needed

• Celebrate with others

• Not feel “perfect” all the time

Healthy living includes joy, flexibility, and enjoyment.

8. Have a Gentle Post-Holiday Plan

Instead of thinking “I’ll wait until January to fix everything,” set yourself up with an easy transition plan.

Examples:

• A 20-minute walk on Boxing Day

• A simple routine the last week of December

• Light meal planning for the first week of January

• A gentle return to stretching or short workouts

It doesn’t need to be strict—just intentional.

Final Thoughts

The holidays don’t need to derail your health goals. With small, realistic steps, you can enjoy everything December has to offer while still taking care of your body and mind. Portion control, simple movement, stress management, and gentle boundaries can make all the difference.

You deserve a holiday season that feels joyful, balanced, and nourishing.

Looking for more practical tips to stay active this holiday season? Visit my Fitness Tips page for simple routines and advice.