How Many Books Read A Year

This year, I’ve been diving deep into the world of BookTok recommendations, and it’s been an absolute joy. I’ve read about 15 books that have been trending on the platform, and each one has left a lasting impression. 'It Ends with Us' by Colleen Hoover was a rollercoaster of emotions, and 'The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo' by Taylor Jenkins Reid had me hooked from the first page. I also enjoyed 'They Both Die at the End' by Adam Silvera, which was both heartbreaking and beautiful. 'The Song of Achilles' by Madeline Miller was a masterpiece that I couldn’t put down, and 'Red, White & Royal Blue' by Casey McQuiston was a delightful rom-com that had me smiling throughout. I’ve also explored 'The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue' by V.E. Schwab, which was a unique and captivating story. BookTok has introduced me to so many incredible books, and I’m excited to continue exploring more recommendations. Another standout for me was 'We Were Liars' by E. Lockhart, which kept me guessing until the very end. 'The Midnight Library' by Matt Haig was a thought-provoking read that made me reflect on life’s choices. I also ventured into 'The Cruel Prince' by Holly Black, which was a thrilling fantasy with a touch of romance. 'A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder' by Holly Jackson was a gripping mystery that I finished in one sitting. 'The Hate U Give' by Angie Thomas was a powerful and important read that I highly recommend. BookTok has truly broadened my reading horizons, and I’m grateful for the diverse range of books it has introduced me to.

Every year, I keep an eye on publishers that consistently deliver quality reads, and this year is no exception. Penguin Random House is a powerhouse, offering everything from gripping thrillers to heartwarming romances. Their imprints like Viking and Riverhead have released some of my favorite books recently. HarperCollins is another go-to, especially for their diverse range of titles, from literary fiction to young adult novels. I’ve also been impressed by Tor Books for their fantastic sci-fi and fantasy releases. For those who love indie vibes, Graywolf Press and Tin House are publishing some of the most thought-provoking and beautifully written works. These publishers are my top picks for must-read books this year.

As someone who thrives on the magic and depth of fantasy worlds, I can't help but recommend a few gems that have left a lasting impression on me. One book that stands out is 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss. It's a masterful blend of storytelling and world-building, following the life of Kvothe, a gifted young man with a tragic past. The prose is poetic, drawing you into a world where music, magic, and mystery intertwine. The way Rothfuss crafts his characters makes them feel alive, and the narrative is so immersive that you’ll forget you’re reading fiction. Another must-read is 'The Priory of the Orange Tree' by Samantha Shannon. This epic fantasy is a sprawling tale of dragons, political intrigue, and ancient prophecies. What I love about it is how it subverts traditional fantasy tropes while delivering a story that’s both grand and intimate. The world is richly detailed, and the characters—especially the fierce warrior Tané and the determined queen Sabran—are unforgettable. It’s a doorstopper of a book, but every page is worth it. For those who enjoy darker, grittier fantasy, 'The Blade Itself' by Joe Abercrombie is a fantastic choice. It’s the first book in 'The First Law' trilogy, and it’s packed with morally grey characters, brutal action, and sharp wit. Abercrombie’s writing is unflinching, and his characters—like the infamous Logan Ninefingers—are some of the most compelling in modern fantasy. The story is unpredictable, and the tension never lets up, making it impossible to put down. If you’re looking for something more whimsical yet deeply philosophical, 'The House in the Cerulean Sea' by TJ Klune is a delightful pick. It’s a heartwarming story about a caseworker who visits an orphanage for magical children and discovers the true meaning of family and belonging. The book is filled with charm, humor, and poignant moments that will leave you smiling long after you’ve finished it. It’s a reminder that fantasy doesn’t always have to be dark to be profound. Lastly, 'The Lies of Locke Lamora' by Scott Lynch is a must for fans of heists and clever protagonists. The book follows Locke and his band of thieves as they navigate the treacherous underworld of Camorr. The dialogue is sharp, the plot is twisty, and the world-building is impeccable. Lynch has a knack for making even the most outrageous schemes feel plausible, and the camaraderie between the characters is infectious. It’s a book that’s as much about friendship as it is about adventure.

I've noticed Mills & Boon's output is pretty consistent but hard to pin down exactly. They release around 120-140 new titles annually across their various series like 'Medical Romance' and 'Historical.' Their parent company Harlequin publishes even more globally, but Mills & Boon specifically caters to the UK market with this steady stream. What fascinates me is how they maintain this pace while keeping their signature tropes fresh—dukes falling for governesses, doctors finding love in hospitals, all that comforting predictability. I track releases through their website and fan forums, where devotees eagerly await monthly drops. The sheer volume means there's always something new at bookstore romance sections, though digital-first releases are becoming more common lately.

I've been keeping a close eye on the 'I Survived' series because my younger cousin is obsessed with them. From what I've gathered, this year has seen two new releases: 'I Survived the American Revolution, 1776' and 'I Survived the California Wildfires, 2018'. Lauren Tarshis really knows how to make history come alive for kids, and these books are no exception. The way she blends real events with gripping storytelling is just brilliant. My cousin can't put them down, and I often find myself sneakily reading them too. The series has a way of making even the most reluctant readers eager to turn the page.

As someone who keeps a close eye on manga and light novel releases, I can say Shueisha has had a pretty packed year. While I don't have the exact count on hand, their lineup includes major hits like 'One Piece' volume 105, which was a massive event for fans. They also dropped new volumes for 'My Hero Academia', 'Chainsaw Man', and 'Jujutsu Kaisen'. Besides these, they've been pushing new titles like 'Dandadan' and 'The Elusive Samurai', which are gaining traction. Shueisha's known for quality over quantity, so even if the number isn't huge, each release feels like a big deal. Their digital platform, Shonen Jump+, has also been popping off with original web manga, adding to their yearly output. If I had to guess, I'd say they've published around 20-30 pivotal books this year, but it's hard to pin down an exact number since 'pivotal' can mean different things to different readers.

I recently finished 'Book Lovers' by Emily Henry, and it was such a delightful read! While I don't remember the exact page count, it felt like the perfect length—around 350-400 pages. It didn't drag, and every chapter kept me hooked. The story between Nora and Charlie was so engaging that I barely noticed how quickly I flipped through the pages. If you're looking for something immersive but not overwhelming, this one's a great pick. Other romances like 'Part of Your World' by Abby Jimenez also fall in a similar range, so you won't feel bogged down.

As someone who devours romance novels like candy, I've noticed a few standouts this year that have taken the book community by storm. 'Book Lovers' by Emily Henry is a must-read, blending witty banter with heartfelt moments in a way only she can. Another favorite is 'Love on the Brain' by Ali Hazelwood, which combines STEM and romance in a delightful package. For those craving something spicy and emotional, 'The Love Hypothesis' remains a fan favorite, even if it’s not brand new. If you’re into historical romance, 'A Marvellous Light' by Freya Marske offers a magical twist with its queer Edwardian setting. Contemporary lovers should check out 'Every Summer After' by Carley Fortune, a nostalgic second-chance romance that hits all the right notes. And let’s not forget 'Hook, Line, and Sinker' by Tessa Bailey, which delivers her signature steam with a charming small-town vibe. Each of these books brings something unique to the table, making them essential reads for any romance enthusiast this year.