In an impressive literary feat, Senior Social News Reporter Danielle Kate Wroe has devoured a staggering 240 books throughout 2025. To inspire others, she has distilled this mammoth reading list into her top five essential recommendations, urging readers to add them to their own lists for 2026.
An Eclectic Mix of Must-Read Titles
Wroe's selections span multiple genres, from dark academia to romantic fantasy, proving that variety truly is the spice of a reader's life. She emphasised that this year's reading journey led her to discover unexpected favourites and books that left a profound emotional impact.
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Although this novel was published in 1992, Wroe described it as a captivating entry into the dark academia genre. She praised its compelling mystery, unsettling atmosphere, and complex character dynamics, noting she read it in just a few days. For fans of literary fiction, this comes as a highly recommended read.
The Boys of Tommen Series by Chloe Walsh
Choosing a series might feel like a cheat, but Wroe insisted this collection deserves its place. Initially sceptical of its viral TikTok hype, she found herself completely absorbed by its unique blend of romance and darker themes. She managed to read the entire 4,000-page series in approximately three weeks, a testament to its gripping narrative.
King Sorrow by Joe Hill
Wroe expressed initial surprise that Stephen King's son would venture into dragon fantasy, but declared the result an absolute triumph. Describing it as "perfection from start to finish," she assured readers that its substantial page count should not be intimidating, as every part of the story is essential.
Heavenly Bodies by Imani Erriu
Just when Wroe thought she had read every notable 'romantasy' novel, she discovered this title. She lauded Erriu's stunning writing style, magical plot, and satisfying enemies-to-lovers trope. The book, which has also gained fame on TikTok, earned high praise from social media influencer Emmy Rosam.
Katabasis by R.F. Kuang
Having enjoyed Kuang's Yellowface, Wroe finally took the plunge with another of the author's works. Katabasis, which follows a protagonist's journey to hell, deeply impressed her with its philosophical depth and gripping twists. It became an unexpected favourite of her year.
Building Your 2026 Reading List
Danielle Kate Wroe's monumental reading year demonstrates a passionate commitment to literature across genres. Her top five picks for 2026 offer a curated starting point for any reader seeking their next unforgettable story, whether they are drawn to classic mysteries, epic fantasies, or emotional romances.
