On this Thanksgiving, I'm sitting with a cup of coffee, a full heart, and a stack of books that changed something in me this year.
Some made me laugh until I cried. Others made me feel seen in ways I didn't expect. A few reminded me why I fell in love with reading in the first place. Today, I want to share the books I'm most thankful for—and invite you to share yours too.
Why Books Matter More Than Ever
In a year that's moved at lightning speed, books have been my constant. They've been my escape when I needed one, my comfort when the world felt heavy, and my joy when I had space to breathe. Romance novels, in particular, have given me hope, laughter, and that delicious feeling of falling in love alongside characters who feel like friends.
This Thanksgiving, I'm reflecting on the books that stayed with me long after I turned the last page. The ones that made me text my friends at midnight saying "you HAVE to read this." The ones that reminded me what a gift it is to lose yourself in a good story.
Books That Made Me Believe in Love Again
For the Hopeless Romantics
The Book That Restored My Faith in HEAs
A Kiss for All Time by Paula Quinn – A sweeping Highland romance that made me believe in second chances and soul-deep love again.
Read Review »
Why I'm grateful: These books reminded me that a well-crafted romance can be as complex, nuanced, and emotionally satisfying as any literary fiction. They proved that happy endings aren't "easy"—they're earned, beautiful, and worth celebrating.
For the Comfort Readers
The Book That Felt Like Coming Home
Beach House No. 9 by Christie Ridgway – Small-town charm, found family, and a love story that wraps you up like your coziest blanket.
Read Review »
Why I'm grateful: In uncertain times, comfort reads aren't escapist—they're necessary. These books reminded me that sometimes the best story is one that makes you feel safe, seen, and satisfied.
“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more.”
— Melody Beattie
Books That Made Me Laugh Out Loud
For Pure Joy
The Book That Had Me Cackling at 2 AM
The Summer Deal by Jill Shalvis – Messy sisters, beach-town drama, and belly laughs galore.
Read Review »
Why I'm grateful: Laughter is a gift, and books that deliver genuine humor are rare treasures. These stories gave me joy when I needed it most and reminded me that romance can be fun, playful, and absolutely hilarious.
Books That Made Me Ugly Cry (In the Best Way)
For the Emotional Release
The Book That Wrecked Me
Immortal by Morning by Lynsay Sands – This time-traveling romance surprised me with its emotional depth and aching beauty.
Read Review »
Why I'm grateful: Sometimes we need a good cry. These books gave me permission to feel deeply, to grieve what needed grieving, and to celebrate what needed celebrating.
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Cozy Recipes for Your Thanksgiving Reading Sessions
Comfort Food + Comfort Reads
Looking for easy dishes to pair with a good book? These cozy recipes can double as reading snacks or simple Thanksgiving sides:
Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole – Comforting and classic, perfect with a found family romanceHomemade Hummus – Great for group reading sessions or solo snack breaks
Gluten-Free Turkey Meatballs – Skip the sauce and use cranberry dip for an easy appetizer
No-Knead Rustic Bread – A cozy slice to accompany any book or meal
Deviled Eggs – From my air fryer egg prep post, simple and classic
Because every good story deserves a good snack.
What Reading Taught Me This Year
Beyond individual books, I'm grateful for what my reading life taught me in 2025:
- It's okay to DNF. Life's too short for books that don't work for you.
- Comfort rereads count. Joy counts as progress.
- Reading slumps are temporary. The joy returns—be patient.
- Your reading taste is valid. Literary or steamy—it’s all valid.
- Books connect us. The conversations have enriched my life.
Join the Conversation!
What book are you most grateful for this year? Drop your favorite read of 2025 in the comments—I’d love to know what made your heart full.
Looking for your next read? Start here:
Happy Thanksgiving from Forever Book Lover! May your day be filled with good food, great books, and even better company. 🍂📚
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