Popular With Readers Month Of January, 2026

- #1
A page-turning, twisted psychological thriller that's as addictive as it is disturbing - be ready for a wild ride and a finale that will keep you questioning everything.
'Verity' by Colleen Hoover is a psychological thriller that takes readers on a dark and twisted journey. The story follows a famous author who is unable to finish her series due to a car accident, leading to the hiring of another author to complete the books. As the plot unfolds, readers are taken through a rollercoaster of suspense, shocking twists, and disturbing revelations. The writing style is described as gripping, intense, and fast-paced, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.
The book delves into themes of manipulation, suspense, and psychological complexity, with a plot that is both compelling and unpredictable. It explores the blurred lines between truth and deception, leaving readers questioning the characters' motivations and the reality of the events unfolding. The narrative is filled with shocking revelations, dark themes, and unexpected turns, making it a captivating and immersive read for fans of psychological thrillers.
The man was in front of me a matter of seconds ago. We were standing in a crowd of people waiting for the crosswalk light to illuminate when he stepped into the street prematurely, resulting in a run-...December 2018•328 pages A dazzling, emotional rollercoaster full of secrets, ambition, and love - it totally lives up to the hype for most readers. If you’re a fan of juicy storytelling and complex characters, jump in!
"The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid follows the intriguing life story of Hollywood legend Evelyn Hugo as she recounts her seven marriages to an unknown writer, Monique. The novel delves into Evelyn's glamorous yet tumultuous journey through Hollywood, filled with scandals, surprises, and unexpected twists. Readers are captivated by Evelyn's unapologetic nature, complex character, and the lessons learned from her unconventional life choices. The writing style is described as beautifully written, engaging, and fast-paced, making it a page-turner that keeps readers hooked till the end.
There is something very striking about Frankie. I’m not sure that you’d say she was conventionally attractive—her features are severe, her eyes very wide apart—but she is nevertheless someone you can’...June 2017•400 pages- #3
A fast, addictive psychological thriller with an audacious twist - devour it for the jaw-dropping finale, but don't expect deep literary nuance. Great for suspense junkies seeking their next bingeable read!
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a psychological thriller that follows the story of Alicia Berenson, a renowned artist who is found with her dead husband, tied to a chair and shot multiple times in the face. Alicia never speaks again and is sent to a mental institution. Theo Faber, a forensic psychologist, takes a job at the facility to treat Alicia and unravel her secrets. The book is filled with twists and turns, red herrings, and a surprising conclusion, making it a gripping and engaging read.
The novel is centered around the relationship between Alicia, the silent patient, and Theo, the psychotherapist determined to make her speak. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia's case, the story unfolds through entries from Alicia's diary and Theo's own perspective. The plot weaves together themes of mental illness, trauma, and suspense, keeping the readers guessing until the unexpected twist at the end. The Silent Patient explores complex characters and intricate storytelling, making it a compelling and thought-provoking thriller.
They had been married for seven years. They were both artists—Alicia was a painter, and Gabriel was a well-known fashion photographer. He had a distinctive style, shooting semi-starved, semi-naked wom...2018•340 pages - #4
A boundary-pushing classic of dark fantasy - Berserk Volume 1 is stunning, emotional, and unforgettable if you can handle its intensity. Not for the faint of heart, but essential reading for fans of mature graphic storytelling.
Berserk Volume 1 by Kentaro Miura is a dark fantasy manga that follows the story of Guts, a brutal anti-hero wielding a massive sword. The plot unfolds through Guts' violent journey as he battles demons and corrupt forces, revealing hints of his traumatic past along the way. The narrative is gritty, filled with blood, gore, and deep emotional themes that resonate with readers, making it a compelling yet harrowing experience.
The writing style of Berserk is intense and engaging, characterized by a unique blend of action and deep character exploration. Miura's artwork amplifies the storytelling with heavy shading that creates impressive depth without overwhelming the visuals. The character development, particularly of Guts, is profound, as readers witness his struggles with anger and trauma. Overall, Berserk is celebrated for its masterful blend of dark themes and breathtaking artistry.
July 2017•224 pages - #5
Is it groundbreaking? No. Is it incredibly entertaining? Absolutely! Fourth Wing is an unashamedly fun, emotionally-charged fantasy ride with dragons, romance, and nonstop twists - perfect if you want to lose yourself in a juicy page-turner.
'Fourth Wing' by Rebecca Yarros is a fantasy romance novel set in a world where dragons play a significant role. The story follows Violet, who forms a unique bond with her dragons, Tairn, Sgaeyl, and Andarna. As Violet navigates through a mysterious and dangerous problem brewing in the kingdom, she faces challenges, heartache, betrayals, and friendships that shape her character. The book is praised for its well-written banter, emotional moments, and mind-blowing naughty scenes between the characters. The plot twists, character development, and the strong chemistry between Violet and her dragons keep readers engaged in this page-turning story.
The book is described as a mix of adrenaline-filled scenes, soul-ripping moments, and tender romantic moments. The diverse cast of characters, including those with chronic illnesses, disabilities, and from LGBTQIA and BIPOC communities, adds depth to the story. The author's writing style is appreciated for its witty banter, comedic touches, and the ability to immerse readers fully into the world she has created, making 'Fourth Wing' a captivating and engaging read.
I tighten the straps of my heavy canvas rucksack and trudge up the wide staircase of the stone fortress I call home. My chest heaves with exertion, my lungs burning by the time I reach the stone corri...May 2023 - #6
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine is both heartwarming and heartbreaking - a witty, moving story about loneliness, kindness, and what it means to be truly fine. Stick with it past the awkward beginnings and you’ll be rewarded with a memorable, uplifting read.
'Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine' by Gail Honeyman is a novel that delves into the life of Eleanor Oliphant, a socially isolated and awkward office worker with a traumatic past. The story follows Eleanor as she navigates through her daily routines, forming unexpected friendships, confronting her past, and gradually undergoing a transformation towards self-discovery and healing. The narrative style provides insights into Eleanor's quirky and complex personality, showcasing her struggles, growth, and interactions with those around her.
The book combines elements of humor, poignancy, and personal triumph as it unravels Eleanor's journey towards overcoming her deep sense of loneliness and guilt. Through subtle storytelling and engaging character development, the author paints a vivid picture of Eleanor's life, highlighting the power of small acts of kindness, the importance of human connection, and the themes of resilience and hope that resonate throughout the novel.
It’s definitely a two-tier system in the office; the creatives are the film stars, the rest of us merely supporting artists. You can tell by looking at us which category we fall into. To be fair, part...May 2017•339 pages - #7
A binge-worthy, atmospheric whodunit that cleverly keeps you guessing - ideal for fans of modern, character-driven mysteries (though the twists and structure aren't for everyone).
'The Guest List' by Lucy Foley is a suspenseful thriller set on a remote Irish island where a wedding turns deadly. The plot unfolds through multiple character perspectives, revealing secrets, lies, and motives for murder. The writing style is described as engaging, with a fluid timeline, clever plotting, and a gripping atmosphere reminiscent of Big Little Lies.
In an instant, everything is in darkness. The band stop their playing. Inside the marquee the wedding guests squeal and clutch at one another. The light from the candles on the tables only adds to the...March 2020•344 pages - #8
A Court of Thorns and Roses is a sexy, dramatic fairy tale reimagining set in a dangerous world of fae, but its blend of romance and darkness won't appeal to everyone. Great for fans of angsty fantasy with a mature edge; skip it if you need your love stories wholesome or your heroines perfect.
In "A Court of Thorns and Roses" by Sarah J. Maas, Feyre, a human, is thrust into the dangerous world of the Fae where she must navigate treacherous politics and dark magic. Bound to the High Lord of the Spring Court, Tamlin, Feyre embarks on a journey of love and sacrifice to save both the Fae and human realms. The book weaves a tale of intrigue, romance, and magic, set against a backdrop of curses, tests, and court drama, appealing to readers of fantasy romance with its unique twist on the Beauty and the Beast story.
Maas expertly crafts a world that is both grounded in familiar fairy tales yet entirely original and captivating. The story is action-packed, filled with twists and turns that keep readers engaged, while the characters, particularly Feyre, are portrayed as flawed and relatable, making the narrative more immersive. The writing style, though at times criticized for being too descriptive or slow-paced, is praised for its ability to create a vivid and enchanting world that draws readers in.
I’d been monitoring the parameters of the thicket for an hour, and my vantage point in the crook of a tree branch had turned useless. The gusting wind blew thick flurries to sweep away my tracks, but...May 2015•434 pages - #9
A dark, emotional, and atmospheric setup to a much-loved fantasy series. "Gild" is worth a read if you love slow-burn, character-driven tales and can handle heavy themes - but prepare for a slow start before the real magic begins in the sequels.
Gild by Raven Kennedy is an adult fantasy novel that delves into the story of Auren, the gold-plated prisoner of King Midas. Auren, a victim of Stockholm syndrome, is kept confined in a gilded cage within the castle of Highbell. The book sets the premise for the series, exploring Auren's complex relationship with Midas and her yearning for freedom. The writing style is described as steamy, taboo, and a great reimagining of the King Midas myth, with a focus on world-building and character development.
The lighting is low, deliberate. Just a crackle of flame over promiscuous shapes that move in warm tandem. Seven bodies working all to one sole release, while I’m here, apart, like a spectator for a s...October 2020 - #10
A thought-provoking and hopeful read that blends fantasy and philosophy, perfect for those who want a reflective, feel-good story (but haters of on-the-nose life lessons and predictability may want to skip it).
The Midnight Library follows the story of Nora Seed, a woman who, after attempting suicide, finds herself in a library between life and death. Each book in the library allows Nora to experience different lives she could have lived based on different decisions she could have made. Through this process, Nora learns valuable life lessons and explores themes of regret, happiness, and the power of choices. The book delves into the concept of parallel universes, showcasing the infinite possibilities of life and the impact of decisions on one's destiny.
Mrs Elm made her first move. A knight hopping over the neat row of white pawns. ‘Of course, you’re going to be worried about the exams. But you could be anything you want to be, Nora. Think of all tha...September 2020•308 pages










