Books I Would Gift Someone If They Read Like Me
It’s my birthday tomorrow, and when I think of gifts, I love receiving books, which are very high on my list. It happens less often these days, because I’m such a devoted eBook lover and I don’t really collect physical books, but honestly, I’d happily accept a book as a present any day of the week.
This list pulls together book recommendations that I consider extremely giftable, perfect not only for people who read like me (basically, those who enjoy a bit of everything), but also for anyone drawn to the genres below. Interestingly, most of them lean toward historical fiction, which makes sense since those are often the stories that linger the longest and hit the deepest.
With the exception of one, these are all books I read this year, so they’re fresh in my mind. Each of them offers a story you can sink into, with plenty to take away, the kind of themes and ideas that invite you to pause, reflect, and think more deeply about the message at its heart.
The Invisible Life of Addie La Rue by V.E Schwab
Genre: Romantic Fantasy
A sweeping, romantic fantasy about a young woman who makes a Faustian bargain for immortality, only to be forgotten by everyone she meets — until, centuries later, someone remembers her name.
This was one of my rare five-star reads of the year and an absolute rave read for me back in March. If you want a story with supernatural elements but still grounded in reality, this is a gem. The premise is brilliant, with touches of historical fiction woven in, but at its core, it’s a doomed romance, beautiful, heartbreaking, and unforgettable. The ending wasn’t what I expected, but it still worked for me. A great choice for anyone who enjoys fantastical stories without the heavy lore and worldbuilding.
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Genre: Historical Fiction
Set in the 1960s, this witty and sharp novel follows brilliant chemist Elizabeth Zott, who finds herself the unlikely star of a TV cooking show, while challenging societal norms with intelligence, independence, and unapologetic flair.
I actually watched the Apple TV adaptation before I even knew it was a book—and loved it so much I binge-watched in days. The show was faithful, with some changes I appreciated, and it made me want to pick up the novel right away. Another historical fiction (spotting a pattern here!), It’s a profound story that digs into the misogyny of the era while highlighting a woman who was simply too far ahead of her time. Even the side characters shine, and at its heart is a beautiful, heartbreaking love story. Thought-provoking, feminist, and deeply moving.
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
Genre: Historical African/Black American Fiction
An epic, multi-generational tale tracing the legacy of two half-sisters in 18th-century Ghana—one sold into slavery, the other marrying a British coloniser—showing how their descendants are shaped by history across centuries and continents.
I first recommended this in my 10 Book Recommendations by Black Women post, back when I hadn’t read it yet. When I finally did, wow. What a beautiful, painful, and heartfelt book. I usually shy away from novels about slavery because they often leave me angry, but Homegoing told one story and yet so many at the same time. It dug deep into the Black experience across generations, centring our voices and our history despite everything that was stolen. It’s melancholic, yes, but somehow also uplifting. A powerful pick for anyone who loves historical fiction.
With or Without You by Shari Low
Genre: Romance
A heart-warming and bittersweet story about love, friendship, and second chances, where one woman must decide which path—and which man—will truly bring her happiness.
I read this book many years ago, yet it has consistently stayed with me. Even when I couldn’t remember the title, I vividly remembered the story and how much I enjoyed it. I love these kinds of “life books” that follow ordinary people, and I’m especially drawn to alternate realities that explore how life shifts with different choices. Without giving too much away, my favourite part was how certain people and experiences feel destined, no matter the decisions along the way. This is perfect for anyone who enjoys realistic stories but is a romantic at heart.
Blood Over Bright Haven by M.L. Wang
Genre: Dark Fantasy | Steampunk
A dark, character-driven fantasy about ambition, power, and sacrifice, following a young woman who will do anything to claim her place among the elite mages of a dazzling but ruthless city.
We all know how much I love this book, another five-star read this year! I’ve written a full review of it, but in short: if you love ethical dilemmas, this is for you. It’s fast-paced, set in a world that’s easy to follow, and it’s a standalone (a rare gift in fantasy). Frustrating at times, yes, but in the best way, it forces you to grapple with uncomfortable truths. Bold, political, and unapologetic, this novel speaks directly to issues we face in society today. If you want a fantasy that makes you think, this is the one.
Putting this list together made me realise just how many truly great books I’ve read — and that I really should start gifting books more often myself. I hope you enjoy these recommendations, and I definitely encourage you to pick them up for yourself as well as for someone special.
As always, let me know if you’ve read any of these or if you decide to gift them. I love hearing how books land with different people. The best part of reading is always sharing the experience. Follow me on GoodReads and Fable to see my five-star reads and the books I count as recommendable!
Thanks as always for stopping by, and I’ll see you again on Friday!
Thank you so much for being here!
Signed,
