2025 reading round-up
Authors I discovered and new habits I picked up
Since December hit, I’ve felt a distinct slowing down, both at work and personally, (despite the diary looking pretty jam-packed). This new, more relaxed pace has given me time to reflect on 2025 as we creep towards 2026.
In true Seoana style, my reflections have started by thinking back over the reads of the year.
This year felt like the first one since becoming a parent that I as able to get back into a real reading rhythm, no doubt helped by the formation of a book club at work and joining a local one dedicated to non-fiction macabre reads. I really upped my non-fiction game this year, and I’m looking forward to continuing this trend into 2026.
I’ve read 66 books
(so far), smashing my goal of 52. Yes, yes, reading shouldn’t be about goals and competition, but for me, having a target helps encourage me to pick up a book rather than scroll through my phone. I still find a whole bunch of joy in reading and having a goal doesn’t detract from that in the slightest.
2025 was the year I…
Found the most “me” book club possible in the form of the Truly Macabre book club in Colchester. Hosting by Megan at the wonderful Wax Spiritual shop, every month we read a non-fiction title covering a range of morbid topics; from the science behind serial killers, to the ins and outs of council funerals. It’s attended by the most lovely bunch of people and I look forward to attending every month.
Discovered new favourite authors in the form of Grady Hendrix and Claire Douglas, similar genres but totally different writers, I’m quickly making my way through their back catalogues.
Did more than 50% of my book shopping at my local indie bookstore. I’m still guilty of being tempted by a supermarket bargain mid food shop, but any time I want to order a specific title I make sure to do it from an independent.
Got into historical fiction - a genre I hadn’t really read much of before. The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon and The Bonesetter Woman by Frances Quinn were two of my favourites.
Read a classic that have been languishing on my tbr list for years in the for of Station Eleven.
What were your reading trends and habits like this year?