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2025 Reading Wrap Up - Which books are at the TOP of the list?

2025 has come to an end, and here are my top reads from each month in 2025! I've read some amazing books this year, and it has been such a busy, blessed year; I'm surprised I was able to read as much as I have. What books do you think I should read in 2026? CHAPTERS ◡̈ 00:38 Black Romance 02:22 YA Fantasy 04:43 Adult Fiction 05:59 Adult Fantasy Duology 09:50 Adult Romtantasy (Standalone) 13:36 YA Fantasy 17:05 Graphic YA Novel 18:30 YA Mystery/Thriller 19:12 Dark Dystopian Romance 23:16 YA Mystery/Thriller If you want to see videos FIRST before anyone else, subscribe to my Bindery for FREE. To see all of my bookish content in ONE place (and exclusive to Bindery content) check it out here: https://theskyylife.binderybooks.com ✨ DETAILS ✨ - StoryGraph *my favorite way to track reading progress*: https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile/theskyylife - Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/171165351 - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskyylife - Threads: https://www.threads.com/@theskyylife - Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/theskyylife (you can find all of my links in one place!) 💖 Charm Meet Cute *Curated & customized bookish acessories*: https://charmmeetcute.etsy.com (shop small, support independent) 📚 Bookshop.Org *my favorite Amazon alternative where you can get amazing books and still support independent bookstores*: https://refer.bookshop.org/erika885 (If you use this link, you will save 20% off your first purchase!) 🎧 Libro.FM *my favorite Audible/Everand alternative where you actually OWN the audiobooks you purchase, and credits don't expire*: https://libro.fm/referral?rf_code=lfm785266 (If you use this link, I will receive an audiobook credit when you start a new one-credit membership.) #booktube #booktok #bookrecommendations #booktuber

16 titles featured

Erika 💖

The Skyy Life

Dec 30, 2025

Oathbound Breakdown Part Two: Unstoppable (Chapters 22-31) FULL RECAP

CHAPTERS ◡̈ Ch. 22 - 00:18 Ch. 23 - 03:16 Ch. 24 - 05:17 Ch. 25 - 06:32 Ch. 26 - 10:05 Ch. 27 - 12:42 Ch. 28 - 15:12 Ch. 29 - 16:11 Ch. 30 - 17:07 Ch. 31 - 1956 Part 3 Sneak Peek/Wrap Up 21:05 If you want to see videos FIRST before anyone else, subscribe to my Bindery for FREE. To see all of my bookish content in ONE place (and exclusive to Bindery content) check it out here: https://theskyylife.binderybooks.com ✨ DETAILS ✨ - StoryGraph *my favorite way to track reading progress*: https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile/theskyylife - Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/171165351 - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskyylife - Threads: https://www.threads.com/@theskyylife - Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/theskyylife (you can find all of my links in one place!) 💖 Charm Meet Cute *Curated & customized bookish acessories*: https://charmmeetcute.etsy.com (shop small, support independent) 📚 Bookshop.Org *my favorite Amazon alternative where you can get amazing books and still support independent bookstores*: https://refer.bookshop.org/erika885 (If you use this link, you will save 20% off your first purchase!) 🎧 Libro.FM *my favorite Audible/Everand alternative where you actually OWN the audiobooks you purchase, and credits don't expire*: https://libro.fm/referral?rf_code=lfm785266 (If you use this link, I will receive an audiobook credit when you start a new one-credit membership.) #oathbound #booktok #bookrecommendations #booktuber

1 title featured

Erika 💖

The Skyy Life

Jan 14

Who did it better — the book or the adaptation? Have you seen the housemaid in theaters? Who did i

Who did it better — the book or the adaptation? Have you seen the housemaid in theaters? Who did it better, the book or the movie? #thehousemaid #thehousemaidmovie #freidamcfadden #movieadaptationsofbooks #bookreview

1 title featured

Erika 💖

The Skyy Life

Jan 12

26 Releases to add to your 2026 TBR

In no particular order, these are just SOME of the books that are being released this year that I cannot wait to read. 📖Are any of these on your TBR? ✨I have the ARCs to some of these and can’t wait to share my thoughts. I have read a couple off this list (🔗 goodreads, storygraph, and bindery gets all the bookish reviews & tea) 🗒️Please note: the publication date is subject to change. These are what I was able to find so far as of last week (bc I forgot to post this 🤣🤗) #bookrecommendations #diversereads #bookstagrammer #2026bookreleases #tbr

25 titles featured

Erika 💖

The Skyy Life

Jan 8

Will I finish this series OR will it finish me? The Stars Are Dying

Will I finish The Stars Are Dying, or will it finish me? I share my thoughts as I read "The Stars Are Dying" by Chloe Peñaranda. Blurb: "The brightest star needs the darkest night." In a world abandoned by the celestial guardians and left to suffer a tyrant king’s reign, all Astraea knows is safety in seclusion. With fragmented memories of only five years of her life, she’s determined to discover more about her past, even if that means fleeing the cruel arms that hold her safe from the wicked vampires rumored to roam the land. But when Astraea stumbles upon the mysterious Nyte, she soon realizes determination alone isn’t enough to guard her heart. He lingers like the darkness that expands between the stars, and soon she discovers her captor’s wicked means of control weren’t based on a lie to keep her under locks after all. In her desperation, Astraea accepts Nyte’s help before she can decide if she might have sold her allegiance to one of the bloodthirsty beings the people of her world fear. Once their bargain is struck, Astraea’s chance to escape comes in the form of accompanying her best friend Cassia to the King’s Central. There on royal territory it’s the centenary of the Libertatem, a succession of trials hosted by the king in which five human lands compete for a cycle of safety from the vampires seeking blood, claiming souls, and savaging after dark. So when tragedy strikes, Astraea must decide if taking the place of a murdered participant for the safety of her kingdom is a ruse worth dying for, or if protection—and the answers to her past—really are her strongest desires. ------------------------------------ Looks like we will continue the series (wish me luck) and read "The Night is Defying". If you want to join me in a readalong on Storygraph (free) you can join me here: https://app.thestorygraph.com/readalongs/b703213c-8535-40cb-b2da-525350162332?redirect=true If you want to see videos FIRST before anyone else (and bookish blogs), subscribe to my Bindery for FREE. To see all of my bookish content in ONE place (and exclusive to Bindery content) check it out here: https://theskyylife.binderybooks.com ✨ DETAILS ✨ - StoryGraph *my favorite way to track reading progress*: https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile/theskyylife - Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/171165351 - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskyylife - Threads: https://www.threads.com/@theskyylife - Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/theskyylife (you can find all of my links in one place!) 💖 Charm Meet Cute *Curated & customized bookish acessories*: https://charmmeetcute.etsy.com (shop small, support independent) 📚 Bookshop.Org *my favorite Amazon alternative where you can get amazing books and still support independent bookstores*: https://refer.bookshop.org/erika885 (If you use this link, you will save 20% off your first purchase!) 🎧 Libro.FM *my favorite Audible/Everand alternative where you actually OWN the audiobooks you purchase, and credits don't expire*: https://libro.fm/referral?rf_code=lfm785266 (If you use this link, I will receive an audiobook credit when you start a new one-credit membership.) #booktube #booktok #bookrecommendations #booktuber

1 title featured

Erika 💖

The Skyy Life

Jan 7

Thank you Posh Pangolin Publishers
for the eARC.

Here are my initial thoughts and review.

Cover — while I can see the Leshy in the background but the snake in the heart, I guess I missed the significance of it on the cover front and center?

Story — I enjoyed the writing and I feel as if not a novella, the world building and relationships between characters would be even more immersive. A good sign.
I requested this arc after a recommendation, bc I don’t mind “dark” romances but I wonder if there was any where consent is apart of the story.
Consent is very much an important part of the story which I appreciate. I requested this with an open mind.

I like the relationship dynamics throughout. Despite some of the nicknames felt repetitive.

I am not the biggest fan of this novella, but I am really interested in reading “Fated Rebirth”. I am curious on how the parallel world will be.

Overall, I think this is someone who reads more of similar stories. I didn’t mind it but ultimately wasn’t my cup of tea but I think Reno is a wonderful author!

Book Review: Captured Prey by Rino R. Mist

Erika 💖

The Skyy Life

Jan 6

Thank you Harper Collins / Harper Alley for the eARC.

Now here are my thoughts & review:

Overall I still love the illustrations — they really bring the story to life and then some. I enjoy following the characters on their journey to discover the truth about Younwity institute. I did like the first in the series more than the second, but I also wouldn’t mind if this series continued (maybe focusing on other secrets not necessarily tied to the institute or maybe what happens if they don’t make it thru their senior year).

It reminded me much of the first (“Over My Dead Body”) bc the Younwity students are somewhat at odds with the Coven. I do think the first one was a little more surprising/shocking/intriguing.

Definitely was excited to read and enjoyed it! I do believe this one has more spells involved which is nice to see. I would love to watch an animated series of this as well.

1st Read of the Year & Review: “Speak of the Devil” graphic novel arc

1 title featured

Erika 💖

The Skyy Life

Jan 3

Abandon your TBR and READ THIS INSTEAD! Daggermouth: Rundown & Review

Hiii friends ◡̈ In this video, I will be discussing Daggermouth by HM Wolfe, originally indie pub (now picked up for trad pub) dark dystopian romance that went VIRAL on book threads! I will be giving you the rundown of Daggermouth (major and specific scenes omitted, this will be spoiler-free) + trigger warnings + initial reactions + reviews! I pre-ordered the ebook (when it was 99 cents, quite frankly the best dollar I've ever spent), I also joined the Wolfe's Renegades + read the ARC version (and I also pre-ordered the indie version from indie bookstore that will be here soon)! As always let me know if you have read this book or will read this book. Please mark any spoilers in the comment section!! CHAPTERS ◡̈ The Rundown 01:26 Initial Thoughts/Reaction 04:30 Trigger Warnings 05:58 Spoiler-free Review 07:06 The playlist I liked listening to while reading: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDYA9nLNg7HMm22gHB5oJVD77Ngv_bV_2&si=5N0wVyVBwYymzWvG If you want to see videos FIRST before anyone else, subscribe to my Bindery for FREE. To see all of my bookish content in ONE place (and exclusive to Bindery content) check it out here: https://theskyylife.binderybooks.com ✨ DETAILS ✨ - StoryGraph *my favorite way to track reading progress*: https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile/theskyylife - Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/171165351 - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskyylife - Threads: https://www.threads.com/@theskyylife - Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/theskyylife (you can find all of my links in one place!) 💖 Charm Meet Cute *Curated & customized bookish acessories*: https://charmmeetcute.etsy.com (shop small, support independent) 📚 Bookshop.Org *my favorite Amazon alternative where you can get amazing books and still support independent bookstores*: https://refer.bookshop.org/erika885 (If you use this link, you will save 20% off your first purchase!) 🎧 Libro.FM *my favorite Audible/Everand alternative where you actually OWN the audiobooks you purchase, and credits don't expire*: https://libro.fm/referral?rf_code=lfm785266 (If you use this link, I will receive an audiobook credit when you start a new one-credit membership.) #booktube #booktok #bookrecommendations #booktuber

1 title featured

Erika 💖

The Skyy Life

Jan 2

Hi everyone! I'm Erika, and I am starting a series where.... well, I want to read the series I own or am in the middle of, and I want to see if I actually finish the series or will it finish me?

The first book in this series is "The Stars are Dying" by Chloe Penaranda.

Well… let’s get into it. I really can’t talk about this in depth without spoilery-ness. I will try to keep super specifics out. You’ve been warned lol

Review:

Astrea is not a typical main character that I connect with or get excited about reading. Under Hektor’s control for 5 years, she was manipulated. Combine that with having no memory of who she is or who to trust before meeting Hektor — this makes it an interesting read. Astrea is compliant with uncertainty of her true power and identity.

I was able to see glimpses of who she truly is in the first 25% and throughout the book but we don’t get to stay in those moments long enough. I get frustrated bc despite the ultimate need to figure out who she is and what that means, as a reader I still don’t think we really understand the full gravity of who and what she is.

I think one of the reasons for this is bc while she may get a flashback (I think its just one… or two?) they weren’t revolutionary. It was clouded bc Astrea is in another position where she has to trust someone else who is also manipulative in their own way.

It’s frustrating bc it seems as if “everyone” around her knows who she is but they do not tell her until wayyyyyyy later. I am still not fully understanding on what benefit it was to delay telling her about herself. What did the story gain from the delay? When we find out much later (or even some chapter transitions) makes the story feel disjointed and some moments lack significance.

I was hoping she would continually progress to uncover who she is, continue to tap into her power, and come out on the other side being a badass while still having things to overcome and heal from — instead I feel like we get slightly disjointed scenarios with melodramatic interactions w/Nyte.

Sometimes something will happen, but instead of addressing it then, it’s put off until later but whats the point of that? I don’t think anything is gained from that.

I enjoyed Nyte’s character more than most. However after so many times of him asking “do you trust me” / “do you believe that (me)?” — it just feels like another annoyance and manipulation.

I was conflicted bc here and there interesting things happen in this book but how it is woven together and how we get there …. Something is definitely missing. The characters sometimes talk in a vague manner but the problem is…. It isn’t just Astrea who doesn’t know what’s going on… the reader doesn’t either. Some things are explained but not clear enough for me (imo), to make it matter in the magnitude I think the author is wanting to get it across..

All in all. It’s decent. Annoying (sorry not sorry its my review…. I gotta be honest). Frustrating. Interesting.

I am hopeful and will read the second book bc I am thinking maybe this was a interesting way to set up the story but I hope for more in the second book.

Have you read the series?

The Night is Defying (Book 2 - Readalong)

I am starting to read the second book: "The Night is Defying" and I have created a public readalong for all to join in on the fun discussion along the way! Feel free to join anytime between now and through 02/28/26 (even if you have already read the book, I'd love to see you there!)

Readalong (on Storygraph): https://app.thestorygraph.com/readalongs/b703213c-8535-40cb-b2da-525350162332?redirect=true

Will I finish the series series (or will it finish me?) Book: The Stars Are Dying

2 titles featured

Erika 💖

The Skyy Life

Dec 31, 2025

2025 wrap up is here! I finished a book recently but it didn’t top my earlier pick for December. I a

2025 wrap up is here! I finished a book recently but it didn’t top my earlier pick for December. I am in the middle of 2-3 other books right now but I’ll tell y’all about those in the new year — to see more regarding these amazing reads — subscribe to my youtube channel! 🔗 in bio videos have been recorded, will be in the lab editing this week to start the new year off on the right foot! 😌 What books do you think I should inread in 2026?! #readingwrapup #bookrecommendations #blackbookstagram #2025reads📚

12 titles featured

Erika 💖

The Skyy Life

Dec 30, 2025