My Top 5 Favourite Reads.

I have read plenty of books that I love. Stories that are so engaging that I continue to think about them years later. These are the ones that impact my writing, impact the way I look at the world. Now, I can't pick a top favourite, but these are the ones that I love and enjoy the most. I hope that you take the time to look at these and consider reading them!

1. Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J. Maas

Published: 2018

Genre: Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Coming-of-Age

Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J. Maas is the sweeping conclusion to the Throne of Glass series, delivering an epic tale of war, sacrifice, and resilience. Set across a richly imagined world on the brink of destruction, the story follows Aelin Ashryver Galathynius and her allies as they fight to defeat dark forces threatening their kingdom; and their very existence.

Key Themes

• Sacrifice and Loyalty: Characters are pushed to their limits, forced to make devastating choices for the greater good, highlighting the cost of freedom and love.

• Power and Identity: Aelin and her companions grapple with who they are versus who they must become, exploring the burden of destiny and leadership.

• Hope Amid Darkness: Despite immense loss and suffering, the novel emphasizes endurance, unity, and the power of hope in the face of overwhelming odds.

• Narrative Scope: Mass weaves multiple perspectives and storylines together, creating a high-stakes, emotionally charged finale that brings long-running character arcs to a close.

  
  

Kingdom of Ash stands as a defining entry in modern fantasy, celebrated for its emotional intensity, intricate world-building, and unforgettable characters. It resonates with readers who appreciate stories of courage, resilience and the enduring fight for a better world.

2. A River Enchanted by Rebecca Ross

Published: 2022

Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Mystery

A River Enchanted by Rebecca Ross is a lyrical atmospheric fantasy set on the magical island of Cadence, where spirits rule the land and the elements hold power over human lives. The story follows Jack Tamerlaine, a bard who returns home after years away to investigate the mysterious disappearance of young girls; only to find himself entangled in old rivalries, fragile alliances, and a slow-burning romance.

Key Themes

• Magic and Nature: The novel explores a world where elemental spirits shape daily life, emphasizing the delicate balance between humans and the natural world.

• Music and Storytelling: Jack's gift for music becomes a powerful form of communication and magic, reinforcing the importance of art in understanding and shaping the world.

• Community and Conflict: Long-standing tensions between island clans highlight themes of division, loyalty, and the effort required to build peace.

• Love and Longing: At its heart is a tender, second-chance romance that unfolds alongside the central mystery, adding emotional depth to the narrative.

A River Enchanted is widely praised for its poetic prose, immersive setting, and emotionally rich storytelling. It appeals to readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy with a strong sense of place, quiet magic, and a touch of mystery.

3. One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig

Published: 2022

Genre: Fantasy, Gothic Fantasy, Romance

One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig is a haunting gothic fantasy set in the mist-locked kingdom of Blunder, where magic is both feared and controlled through an ancient deck of Providence Cards. The story follows Elspeth Spindle, a young woman harbouring a dangerous secret: a mysterious entity known as the Nightmare lives inside her head, granting her power at a cost. When she is drawn into a rebel plot to collect the full deck of cards and cure the kingdom's dark magic, Elspeth must navigate trust, betrayal, and the growing voice within her.

Key Themes

• Power and Control: The novel explores the dangers of unchecked magic and the systems put in place to contain it, questioning who truly holds power; and at what cost.

• Duality and Identity: Elspeth's internal struggle with the Nightmare reflects deeper questions about selfhood, autonomy, and the parts of ourselves we fear.

• Atmosphere and Isolation: With its fog-drenched setting and eerie tone, the story leans into gothic traditions, creating a sense of claustrophobia and unease.

• Trust and Resistance: As alliances form and secrets unravel, the narrative highlights the risks and necessity of trust in the face of oppressive rule.

  
  

One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig is praised for its unique magic system, darkly immersive world-building, and compelling character dynamics. It stands out in modern fantasy for its gothic aesthetic and psychological depth, appealing to readers who enjoy eerie, character-driven stories with romantic tension.

4. Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson

Published: 2006

Genre: Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, High Fantasy

Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson is the first book in the Mistborn series, set in a world where ash falls from the sky and mist dominates the night. The story follows Vin, a street-smart orphan who discovers she has powerful magical abilities known as Allomancy; the ability to ingest and burn metals for extraordinary powers. She is taken in by a crew of rebels led by the charismatic Kelsier, who plan an impossible heist: overthrowing the immortal Lord Ruler and his oppressive empire.

Key Themes

• Oppression and Revolution: The novel examines life under a brutal regime and the risks, hope, and unity required to challenge systematic power.

• Trust and Belonging: Vin's journey from isolation to found family highlights the importance, and difficulty, of trusting others after betrayal.

• Power and Responsibility: Through Allomancy, the story explores how power can be used, abused, and resisted.

• Innovative Magic System: Sanderson's structured, rule-based magic system is a hallmark of the novel, offering a unique and strategic approach to fantasy storytelling.

  
  

Mistborn: The Final Empire is widely regarded as a modern fantasy classic, praised for its intricate world-building, compelling characters, and satisfying blend of action, mystery, and emotional depth. It remains a favourite for readers drawn to clever magic systems and high-stakes rebellion stories.

5. Releasing 10 by Chloe Walsh

Published: 2025

Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Coming-of-Age

Releasing 10 by Chloe Walsh is the fifth book in the Boys of Tommen series, continuing the deeply emotional journey of Lizzie Young and Hugh Biggs. Set in Cork, Ireland, the novel explores the aftermath of trauma, the weight of mental health struggles, and the slow, painful process of healing. As Lizzie battles her inner demons, Hugh remains a steady, compassionate presence, determined to support her without losing himself in the process.

Key Themes

• Mental Health and Healing: The novel offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and self-destructive behaviour, emphasizing that recovery is not linear.

• Love and Support: Through Lizzie and Hughie's relationship, the story highlights the importance of patience, understanding, and boundaries in loving someone who is struggling.

• Trauma and Resilience: Past experiences shape the characters' present, and the narrative explores how confronting pain is essential to moving forward.

• Character-Driven Narrative: Walsh focuses intensely on emotional depth, giving readers an intimate look into her characters' thoughts and struggles.

  
  

Releasing 10 resonates with readers due to its honesty, emotional intensity, and compassionate handling of difficult topics. It stands out in contemporary romance for prioritizing personal growth and mental health alongside, love, making it a powerful and very impactful read.