Stories That Transport: The Ultimate Books to Escape Into
February 24th, 2025
Writer: Sydney Merchant
Editor: Sophie Silverstein
Imagine you could enter an entirely different universe by simply flipping a piece of paper. Especially during these winter months, few things sound better than curling up with a good book. In a world of pressure and uncertainty, letting our imaginations run wild can, at times, be a saving grace.
I consider myself an avid reader, and over winter break, I read a ton of books across different genres. With each new book I started, I entered an entirely new world. I was able to fly alongside dragons, cross new cities off my bucket list, and find true love—all while in the comfort of my own home. (Talk about a productive month!) As I flipped from page to page, I compiled a list of what I believe to be the best of the best.
Here is a comprehensive list of all of my 5-star books from 2024! With books spanning different genres, there is sure to be something for everyone here. Whether your 2025 goal is to read more or if you’re just looking for a new hobby, this list is for you.
Contemporary Romance:
Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
If you are looking to jump into the summer with a heartwarming romance, pick up a copy of Just for the Summer! This novel follows Justin andEmma, two people who haven’t had the best luck with love. As they grapple with the possibility that they might be ‘cursed,’ they decide to see if they can help each other out with their similar predicament. This is such a fun, laugh-out-loud story for the hopeless romantics out there. Jimenez is an incredible author who conveys grief and self-acceptance in a way that is both personal and tangible. Overall, this is the perfect beach read.
The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston
After suffering the loss of her aunt, Clementine embarks on a journey of self-discovery and love while living in the apartment her aunt passed down to her. This book is unlike any romance I have ever read. As the main characters grapple with their relationship and the seven years that it has taken for them to reconnect. The magic of the apartment is written in such vivid detail that it is easy to fall into the world Poston created. She touches on grief and healing in an indescribable way that has you feeling emotions alongside Clementine. Her depiction of a strong, independent female main character is inspiring. This book is heartwarming in every way.
Realistic Fiction/Based on a True Story
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
This book is one of the most influential novels I have read to date. It follows Rill Foss, as she and her siblings are taken from their family and forced into the foster care system, as well as Avery Stafford, who returns to her hometown to help her father with their daily business. The novel follows two separate yet overlapping storylines. As the story unravels and the two worlds collide, the truth is unimaginable. It is based on the true story of an adoption agency that kidnapped children and altered their lives forever. This story is heart-wrenching, compelling, inspiring, and breathtaking. If I could read one book for the first time again, it would be this.
Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Given the popularity of the movie adaptation, you’ve probably heard this title before. The story follows Kya Clark and how her unique childhood led her to become the suspect in a murder investigation. This story is a testament to isolation, the natural world, and the realities of childhood trauma. Amidst the tragedy in the plot lies a love story, social dynamics, and so much more. Where the Crawdads Sing has a well-crafted element of mystery that is sure to pull readers in while remaining relatable and touching. Whether you have seen the film or not, I highly suggest reading this novel.
Fantasy
Fourth Wing (The Empyrean Series) by Rebecca Yarros
This book follows Violet Sorrengail as she is immersed in a magical fantasy world where only the best survive, and every day brings a new life-or-death challenge. Between discovering who can be trusted, suffering loss, experiencing trials, meeting dragons, and finding love, this book is sure to keep you on your toes. This was the first fantasy book I ever read, and if you’re on the fence about exploring this genre, this is a great place to start.
A Court of Thornes and Roses (Books 1-5) by Sarah J. Maas
This series follows the main character Feyre, who works to fight for her family's survival through the harsh winter season. In her world, the most feared creatures are the “faeries,” and her hatred for them runs deep. When Feyre is forced to choose between her family’s survival and her hatred for the faeries, she faces a life-altering decision. While A Court of Thorns and Roses is the first book in this incredible series, its influence and plot are enough to make it feel like a standalone novel. This fantasy novel features details and Easter eggs combined with constant “edge of your seat” moments.
Non-Fiction/Self Help/Biography
Dinner for Vampires by Bethany Joy Lenz
Dinner for Vampires tells the story of One Tree Hill star Bethany Joy Lenz. Lenz dives into all aspects of her life and career. Specifically, she gives her honest retelling of her experience being brought into an unsuspecting cult while on the set of the hit TV show. She also discusses her love life and personal relationships. Given that I usually don't reach for biographies, I was surprised by how captivated I was by this book. Lenz’s story is so inspiring, and after reading this book, you’ll see her in a whole new light. Atomic Habits by James Clear
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Atomic Habits is the perfect book if you are working on bettering yourself in ways that don’t require exhaustive effort. This book makes self-improvement simple and tangible, making it the perfect read for someone looking to make impactful changes. On a personal note, I’ve seen real and noticeable results after reading this book, and I’ve continued several of the habit-breaking/forming tips I gained from it.
I love reading, and I have since I was a kid. I firmly believe that if you don’t like reading, you just haven’t found the right book yet. A good book transports you and makes you feel the heartache, loss, love, etc., that the characters experience, or it inspires you to soul-search and look inward, or even just makes you feel lighter while you read. It’s such a wonderful escape, especially during these cold winter months with so many stressors around us. I’ve found my escapes, and I hope this helped you find yours! For more book recommendations, I highly recommend creating a Goodreads account. It’s a great way to keep track of your reading goals and progress, as well as get some great inspiration.
