We’ve provided you with numerous recommendations to fill your bookshelf and TBR — from powerful women in history to mystery thrillers featuring Indigenous voices. But sometimes, as both a reader and a writer, I want to gush about my personal favorites and share them with those who might match my taste. Now I get to do just that.
So get cozy as you read about some of my all-time favorite books to enrich your already sky-high TBR pile.
The Dragon That Started It All: Dragon Rider by Cornelia Funke
My favorite book as an innocent second grader was Dragon Rider by Cornelia Funke. I’ve always loved the fantasy genre — especially when dragons are involved.
Dragon Rider tells the story of Firedrake, a dragon living peacefully in a valley near London. When he learns humans plan to flood the area, he sets off on a journey with his brownie friend, Sorrel, to find the mythical Rim of Heaven — a haven for dragons. Along the way, they save an orphan boy named Ben, who joins their adventure. But Firedrake soon discovers that humans aren’t the only threat. A dragon-hunting monster named Nettlebrand is secretly pursuing them, determined to finish what he failed to do decades ago.
With mapmakers, scientists, and djinns guiding them, the crew’s adventure is packed with wonder. At over 500 pages, it’s a fun found-family fantasy perfect for kids and dragon-loving young adults alike.
There’s even a sequel, The Griffin’s Feather, where our crew sets out to save another favorite mythological creature: the pegasus.
The writing is simple, accessible, and deeply enjoyable. And… confession time — I never returned my copy to the school library. It’s now safe and sound on my bookshelf. Sorry, not sorry.
Underdog Fantasy at Its Best: The Novice by Taran Matharu
Keeping the fantasy train going, The Novice, the first book in The Summoner series by Taran Matharu, is a hidden gem that deserves more attention.
The story follows Fletcher, the adopted son of a blacksmith, who discovers he can summon demons from another dimension. After being falsely accused of a crime, he escapes his village and enrolls in an academy where both nobles and commoners train to become battle mages for the Empire’s army in their war against the savage Orcs.
Fletcher faces discrimination, political scheming, and noble elitism as he rises through the ranks. He’s even accused of being a noble’s illegitimate child as an explanation for his powers, but a twist reveals the truth behind his talents and his bond with a rare demon.
This is a must-read if you’re into underdog stories where the underestimated hero becomes the best at what he does. I originally picked it up because the cover was pretty, and I’ve reread it at least 50 times since. No regrets.
Dark, Twisted, and Brilliant: Not Even Bones by Rebecca Schaeffer
The fantasy genre isn’t all magical kingdoms and noble quests. Sometimes it’s about dissecting supernatural beings and navigating a black market full of danger — and that’s exactly what you get with Not Even Bones by Rebecca Schaeffer.
Our protagonist, Nita, doesn’t run the family business — her mother does. Nita just handles the dissections after the supernatural “products” are acquired. But when her mom brings home a live specimen and expects her to start cutting, Nita refuses. Saving the boy instead results in her being sold on the black market — because, surprise, she isn’t exactly human either.
Now caged and powerless, Nita must decide how far she’s willing to go to escape — and whether she’s becoming more like her mother than she realized.
I discovered this book through its Webtoon adaptation and was hooked. The story explores the darker side of supernatural worlds — how beings are exploited and demonized for profit, often based on fear or superstition.
What I especially love is how morally grey Nita is. She’s no perfect heroine — she makes hypocritical decisions, overestimates her cleverness, and faces real consequences. She feels raw and real, shaped by her environment.
Rebecca Schaeffer had me instantly — and I’ll recommend this book to anyone who will listen.
An 800-Year-Old Romance: Heaven Official’s Blessing by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu
I’m a sucker for romance. There, I said it. And when it comes to romantic, slow-burn, angst-filled love stories, Heaven Official’s Blessing is top-tier.
Written by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu, this danmei novel introduces a layered world of gods, ghosts, and deep emotional journeys. We follow Xie Lian, a once-revered prince who’s been exiled from heaven and now returns — 800 years later — for a third ascension. His return is so powerful it causes an earthquake in heaven, destroying palaces and angering other martial gods.
To repay his debts, Xie Lian is sent to the mortal realm to hunt dangerous ghosts. But he’s warned to avoid one in particular: Hua Cheng, a feared ghost king known for defeating 33 heavenly officials.
Then Xie Lian meets a mysterious, charming young man named San Lang… and well, sparks fly. But who is San Lang really?
This novel — and its gorgeous animated adaptation — quickly became one of my favorites. The world-building is rich, the characters are nuanced, and the romance is beautiful and tragic in equal measure. If you’re new to danmei, it might take some getting used to, but the books include helpful glossaries and character guides.
Just be ready for a commitment — there are 8 volumes of emotions waiting for you.
Harsh Truths & Healing: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
As someone who thrives on sarcasm (and well-placed curse words), the title alone pulled me into this one. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck is a refreshing take on self-help.
Mark Manson argues that humans are flawed and limited — and that’s okay. Not everything deserves your energy, and trying to be positive all the time isn’t the solution. Instead, we should focus on what actually matters and let go of the rest.
If you’re an overthinker who struggles to say “no,” this book offers a solid reality check. It doesn’t sugarcoat, but it doesn’t judge either. It just makes you think.
Alex Approved
That’s all, folks! These are just a few of my personal favorites — books I’ll never shut up about. If you decide to read any of them, congrats — you’ve officially stepped into my bookshelf. Enjoy the ride and don’t forget to add them to your TBR. Bye for now!
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Find more of our recommendations for your TBR in our Bookstr Team Recommendations bookshelf on Bookshop.
