Whalefall

Daniel Kraus

Where I loved Angel Down, I think I might have hated Whalefall. Daniel Kraus is clearly at home in gory, brutal landscapes and telling deeply uncomfortable stories, and there’s no question that he knows how to make you feel every horrible second of what his characters are going through.

Whalefall was just so difficult to read. It’s basically reverse, unrelenting body horror. Every time you think things can’t possibly get worse, somehow they do. I found myself physically uncomfortable reading parts of this book, which is really a testament to Kraus’s writing because I was still completely hooked and had to see it through to the end.

And the premise is so ridiculously compelling. A kid gets swallowed by a whale. How could you not want to know what happens next? I don’t even know what I expected going into it, but I definitely wasn’t prepared for just how brutal and claustrophobic the experience would be.

Kraus is really good at putting characters through absolute hell. I just apparently don’t enjoy being there with them.

I also cannot believe they’re making this into a movie. I genuinely have no idea how they’re going to translate some of this onto the screen without making everyone in the theater deeply uncomfortable.

Great premise. Great writing. Absolutely miserable reading experience.

60

Demon in White

Christopher Ruocchio

The third book in the Sun Eater series, and this one kicks things up a notch.

It starts with some genuinely exciting action alongside all the political machinations, which gives the story a better balance than some of the slower sections of the earlier books. The new Chimera Cielcin are especially cool, and I really liked the return of an influential character from the first book. That was a surprise I definitely didn’t see coming.

The introduction of the new time-travel mechanics involving the Quiet is also really interesting and adds another layer to the increasingly complicated mythology of the series. There’s a lot going on with the Quiet, the Cielcin, and Hadrian’s understanding of the universe, and it feels like the bigger picture is finally starting to come into focus.

I also didn’t expect the connection to America and the history of Earth. It could have easily felt forced or overly heavy-handed, but I thought Ruocchio pulled it off pretty well. It adds an unexpected connection between this enormous space opera and the history of humanity without completely taking over the story.

Three books in, Sun Eater is really starting to feel like the massive, sprawling saga it promised to be.

59

Queen Amid Ashes

Christopher Ruocchio

Another novella in the Sun Eater series and a fun little side adventure for Hadrian Marlowe.

The series continues to lean fully into its grand space-opera roots, with more fighting against the Cielcin and Hadrian dealing with the increasingly complicated mess that is humanity. It’s an entertaining detour that gives us another glimpse into the larger universe without moving the main story forward much.

Not much to it, honestly, but it’s a fun read and a nice little addition to the Sun Eater universe.

58

Where Men Find Glory

Jon Krakauer

Immediately grabbed my attention because I remember Pat Tillman’s story from when I was younger.

I remember watching Tillman play football, then watching the news when he walked away from an NFL career to join the Army in Afghanistan. His death from friendly fire was already a bizarre and tragic story, but the circumstances surrounding what happened afterward made it even more disturbing.

What makes the book especially compelling is how relevant it still feels today. Krakauer provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the government cover-up, the use of a genuinely good person for political gain, and the incredible dysfunction within the military administration. It’s sobering to see how Tillman’s death was handled and how much effort went into controlling the story rather than simply telling the truth.

At the same time, the book never loses sight of Tillman himself. Flawed but honorable. His decision to walk away from an NFL career, his sense of duty, and his willingness to question what he was being told make his story both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Sobering, insightful, sad, and ultimately inspiring. A compelling mix of investigative reporting, history, and a deeply human story.

57

The Lesser Devil

Christopher Ruocchio

The Lesser Devil is a novella set between Empire of Silence and Howling Dark, taking place while Hadrian is frozen. Instead of following Hadrian, the story shifts focus to his brother, Crispin, and sister, Valka, as they get pulled into their own adventure within the Sun Eater universe.

It’s a fun side story and a nice opportunity to explore more of the world outside Hadrian’s perspective, but it isn’t quite as compelling as the much grander storyline of the main series. The biggest payoff for me was Crispin. He’s almost completely unlikeable in the first book, so getting his perspective and seeing some of what drives him makes him a much more sympathetic and interesting character.

A solid companion piece to the main series, even if it feels more like a side quest than an essential part of the larger story.

56

Howling Dark

Christopher Ruocchio

The second book in the Sun Eater series isn’t quite as exciting as the first, but it’s still an engaging sci-fi space opera on the grandest possible scale.

As much as you’re rooting for Hadrian Marlowe in the first book, the second has you spending a lot more time wondering, “What the hell are you doing, Hadrian?” His decisions become increasingly questionable, which makes him frustrating at times. The storytelling device of having Hadrian recount the entire story from some unknown point in the future is also a strange choice. It works, but constantly knowing that he survives while having no idea what happens between the events of the story and his eventual narration creates an interesting tension.

The world itself continues to be fascinating, expanding the scale of the story and introducing some genuinely engaging—and often terrifying—creatures. The Cielcin are becoming increasingly interesting, but the Undying Kharn Sagara, the King with Ten Thousand Eyes, is easily the most fascinating part of the book so far. There’s something genuinely unsettling about him, and every appearance feels like there’s a much bigger mystery hiding underneath.

55

Into Thin Air

Jon Krakauer

The reporting of a doomed expedition up Mt. Everest. Told with Krakauer’s trademark candor this is a fascinating real story of both what it’s like to climb the mountain as well as the history of how climbing to the roof of the world became a thing.

54

Heat 2

Michael Mann / Meg Gardiner

This feels like a joke. Heat 2: The Book. But it’s real. Picks up right where the original movie ends. I can’t say I’m not enjoying it but it reads like a script, which kinda makes sense. It’s okay. if you like the original movie.

53

Empire of Silence

Christopher Ruocchio

Exactly the kind of grand-scale sci-fi space opera that immediately pulls me in.

This book hooked me right from the beginning.. probably because it feels like a blend of Red Rising and Dune, two series I really enjoyed. It has the sprawling empire, political intrigue, ancient mysteries, and larger-than-life tone that make classic space opera so much fun.

The framing device is especially interesting. The story is told as a recounting of past events, constantly dropping hints about Hadrian’s future and the consequences of his actions while still carrying you through the present narrative. It’s very well done, though occasionally a bit frustrating when it teases huge revelations without fully explaining them.

Hadrian Marlowe is also a compelling protagonist. He’s intelligent, flawed, dramatic, and often makes decisions that make you want to grab him by the shoulders and yell at him to think things through—but that’s part of what makes him entertaining to follow.

Overall, a really enjoyable start to what feels like a massive and ambitious sci-fi saga.

52

Everything is Tuberculosis

John Green

A fascinating and somber read. John Green does an excellent job weaving together history, science, and deeply personal stories in a way that makes the subject feel immediate and human rather than clinical.

I had no idea how enormous the impact of tuberculosis has been on humanity, or how many moral, political, and economic issues have surrounded the disease for centuries. The book is incredibly informative without ever feeling dry.

At different points it makes you angry, sad, and frustrated, especially when it explores the inequality and systemic failures tied to treatment and prevention. But it’s also inspiring in the way it highlights human perseverance, scientific progress, and the people who continue fighting against a disease that still affects millions worldwide.

A surprisingly powerful read about something most people rarely think about.

51

Thrilling Tales of Modern Men

Danny McBride

Completely absurd in exactly the way you’d expect from Danny McBride.

If you’ve seen any of his work, you already know the vibe: loud, overconfident men making spectacularly dumb decisions while talking like they’re the smartest guy in the room. The short stories all lean hard into that style, and you can practically hear McBride’s voice delivering every line.

It’s not exactly high literature, and not every story lands, but it’s undeniably entertaining. Crude, ridiculous, and occasionally hilarious, the book feels like an extension of the same chaotic energy that runs through most of McBride’s comedy.

50

He Who Fights with Monsters

Shirtaloon, Travis Deverell

After coming straight from a more unique, tightly focused read, jumping back into LitRPG with this was a bit of a slog. There’s definitely a lot to enjoy here. The world-building is solid, the characters are likable, and the humor and progression elements can be a lot of fun.

But the story eventually started to drag for me. The pacing slows down quite a bit, and after a while I found myself losing interest despite still liking the overall concept and cast.

I’m planning to revisit and continue it eventually because there’s clearly a good story here, but for now I needed to move on to something else.

49

Angel Down

Daniel Kraus

and this book hooks you right from the beginning, the way it’s written is unlike anything I’ve read but it becomes almost rhythmic in it’s prose,

and this book is brutal, and beautiful, and so descriptive you get why it earned a Pulitzer Prize,

and it might just be the best book I’ve read this year,

48

Cinema Speculation

Quentin Tarantino

A fascinating deep dive into the movies and filmmakers that shaped one of modern cinema’s most influential directors.

Love him or hate him, it’s undeniable that Tarantino is an absolute encyclopedia of film knowledge. His passion for movies jumps off every page as he explores the cinema of the 1960s, 70s, and 80s through a mix of criticism, personal stories, and industry history.

Focusing on both celebrated classics and obscure grindhouse films, the book examines the movies, directors, actors, and producers who helped define American cinema for decades. It also serves as a love letter to Los Angeles and the movie-going culture that shaped Tarantino’s worldview.

Even when you disagree with his opinions—and there are plenty of opinions—his enthusiasm is infectious. Whether you’re a hardcore film buff or just curious about the evolution of modern filmmaking, Cinema Speculation offers a unique and highly entertaining perspective on an era of cinema that continues to influence filmmakers today.

47

Into The Wild

Jon Krakauer

Krakauer’s writing is as compelling as ever. He has a knack for turning real events into page-turners, weaving together biography, adventure, and personal reflection in a way that’s hard to put down. Even knowing the broad outline of the story beforehand, I found myself completely invested.

What makes the book so enduring is that it invites wildly different interpretations. Some readers see inspiration and courage in Christopher McCandless’s journey; others see recklessness and naivety. Krakauer doesn’t completely settle the debate, which is part of what makes the story so fascinating.

46

Rendezvous with Rama

Arthur C. Clarke

The premise is fascinating, and the way Clarke blends science, exploration, and the politics of the era makes for a riveting read. It’s hard to believe this book was published in 1973. Some of the technologies, concepts, and their applications feel like they were pulled straight from modern science fiction.

What impressed me most is how different it feels from so much contemporary sci-fi. Rather than focusing on war, space battles, or galaxy-spanning conflicts, the story is driven by exploration, discovery, and humanity’s attempt to understand the unknown. The mystery of Rama itself is what keeps the pages turning.

After reading it, it’s easy to see why this novel became a classic. More than fifty years after its publication, it still feels fresh, imaginative, and remarkably forward-thinking. For a book centered on curiosity and understanding rather than violence and conflict, it remains a truly one-of-a-kind read.

45

The Time of Contempt

Andrzej Sapkowski

Straightforward entry in The Witcher that finally starts paying off much of the setup from the earlier books.

The political tensions that have been simmering in the background begin to boil over, and the story shifts from world-building to action and consequences. The relationships between Geralt of Rivia, Yennefer, and Ciri continue to develop, while the larger conflict engulfing the Continent starts to take center stage.

It’s not the deepest or most memorable book in the series so far, but it’s an enjoyable read that moves the story forward and raises the stakes. After the slower pace of Blood of Elves, it feels like the saga is finally finding its footing.

44

A Parade of Horribles

Matt Dinniman

Continuing the Dungeon Crawler Carl saga, the 8th book takes place on the 10th level of the dungeon, this time built around racing and chaotic, almost Mario Kart-style tracks.

The characters are still endearing, the humor is intact, and the series’ trademark insanity is on full display. There are definitely great moments throughout. But this is also where the story started to really feel overly convoluted for me. It happened in the 7th book too but this time

Trying to keep track of everything… weapons, gods, spells, AI manipulation, dungeon mechanics, and constantly evolving rules, became exhausting at times and started to detract from the story itself. The formula is still there, and when it clicks it’s a lot of fun, but the repeated “mystery item/MacGuffin solves the impossible problem” structure is starting to wear thin.

I still enjoyed the book overall, but I struggled to stay as engaged as I was with books one through six.

43

Lonesome Dove

Larry McMurtry

An enormous book, but it’s easy to see why it won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. It’s an expertly crafted, sprawling western that feels epic in both scale and detail.

At times, the racism and misogyny can be jarring, but the novel very much reflects the harsh realities and attitudes of another era. Augustus McCrae and Woodrow F. Call are fascinating leads. Flawed Texas Rangers who are stubborn, set in their ways, and almost archetypal cowboys. Their relationship is what really anchors the story.

The supporting cast is filled with characters that could easily fall into western stereotypes, but McMurtry gives the world so much texture and authenticity that it all feels lived-in and real.

The book can be brutal and unrelenting, then suddenly funny, warm, and deeply human. It’s a demanding read, but one I’m glad I stuck with.

42

No Country for Old Men

Cormac McCarthy

Having only read The Road, I went into No Country for Old Men expecting that same intensity, and it delivers right away. The detail, the stark atmosphere, and the raw, unflinching storytelling are unmistakably McCarthy.

For most of the book, it’s gripping. The tension builds steadily, and the characters feel grounded in a brutal, unpredictable world.

But then it takes a turn. The main character’s arc kind of fades out off-screen, and the ending feels abrupt and strangely unresolved. It leaves you wanting more — but not in a satisfying way.

41

Blood of Elves

Andrzej Sapkowski

The first full novel in The Witcher, and it largely focuses on setting the stage for what’s to come.

There’s a strong emphasis on world-building and political maneuvering, especially around places like Novigrad, and how those forces intersect with the main characters. It’s more about laying groundwork than delivering constant action.

That said, there are a few standout moments — the elves’ ambush on the dwarven caravan and the later confrontation with the sorcerer Rience both add some much-needed intensity.

Overall, it’s a slower, more deliberate entry, but an important one for establishing the relationships and conflicts that drive the rest of the series.

40

Sword of Destiny

Andrzej Sapkowski

The second collection in The Witcher series. Though it was published in English after The Last Wish, which makes the reading order feel a bit odd.

This collection really sets the stage for the larger saga, most notably by introducing Ciri and developing the central theme of destiny that drives the series forward.

The six interconnected stories do a great job of expanding the world and deepening the relationships, especially between Geralt of Rivia, Yennefer, and Ciri. It feels more cohesive than the first collection, with each story building toward something bigger.

It’s a strong bridge between the early, episodic storytelling and the main saga novels.

39

The Faith of Beasts

James S. A. Corey

Dense, hard sci-fi, but once you’re invested, it becomes a compelling read.

The Carryx invasion and the survivors forced to adapt to life on an alien world under alien rules. It creates a complex, often tense narrative that can feel a bit bogged down at times with the sheer number of characters and species. Still, watching the humans struggle to survive while quietly pushing back adds a strong undercurrent of resistance.

The world-building really stands out, especially the mystery surrounding “the deathless” adversary drives the story forward and keeps you engaged.

At times, it reaches the same level of intrigue as The Expanse, balancing big ideas with human (and not-so-human) stakes. It’s layered, challenging, and ultimately rewarding.

38

Between Two Fires

Christopher Buehlman

A dark, brutal, and surprisingly gripping story set during the Black Death in 1348 France.

I went in not really knowing what to expect and came away pleasantly surprised. Between Two Fires blends medieval horror and fantasy in a way that feels both grounded and deeply unsettling, with a constant sense of dread hanging over everything.

The story can be unrelenting at times, and some of the themes are off-putting, but it never lingers too long. Christopher Buehlman moves efficiently between backstory and present action, keeping the pace tight and the momentum strong. It’s the kind of book that keeps pulling you forward, even when it gets dark.

That said, it started to lose me about two-thirds of the way through. The narrative becomes more convoluted and a bit confusing, which takes away from the strong momentum built early on. I still finished it, but it was a bit of a letdown after such a powerful start.

Do not confuse with Between Two Ferns. Very different.

37

Leviathan Falls

James S. A. Corey

A bittersweet and fitting conclusion to The Expanse.

After everything these characters have endured across nine books (ten, if you count the novellas), it’s genuinely sad to say goodbye. James Holden’s arc feels especially impactful—tragic, but completely true to who he’s always been. He’s been the heart of the series from the beginning, and the way his story ends is both deeply satisfying and hard to let go of.

It’s also great to see familiar threads come full circle. Miller’s brief return lands well, and watching Amos Burton, Naomi Nagata, and Alex Kamal reach the end of their journeys feels earned. Even the conclusions for Winston Duarte and Tanaka come together in a satisfying way.

It wraps things up in a way that feels complete — but still leaves you wishing there was more.

36

The Last Wish

Andrzej Sapkowski

A fun introduction to Geralt of Rivia and the world of The Witcher.

As a collection of short stories, it does a great job setting up the tone, characters, and moral gray areas that define the series. Geralt comes across as much more gruff and sharp-edged here than in the video games, which is interesting to see.

Yennefer… kinda the worst, honestly. And Dandelion being pronounced “Dan-dill-e-on” in the audiobook is… a choice.

What really stood out, though, is how deeply the world pulls from and twists classic fairy tales. There’s a lot more of that influence than you might expect, and it adds a really cool layer to the stories.

Overall, a fun and engaging read — even with a few quirks.

35

The Silmarillion

J.R.R. Tolkien

A tough read. I love the The Lord of the Rings / The Hobbit universe, but this is a whole different level.

It basically reads like Genesis for Middle-earth — dense, mythological, and packed with names, places, and lore that come at you fast. There are moments where it’s fascinating to see the origins of everything, but it’s definitely not an easy, casual read.

The book really shines when it overlaps with familiar ground, exploring the origins of figures like Gandalf and Sauron, and the creation of the Rings. That connective tissue is incredible.

It’s remarkable world-building, but not always accessible.

34

Tiamat’s Wrath

James S. A. Corey

A powerful entry as the series barrels toward its conclusion.

Having the crew of the Rocinante so split up is a bit disappointing, but each storyline stands strong on its own. Bobbie Draper’s arc, especially, taking command of the Gathering Storm and going up against the Tempest—is absolutely incredible.

It’s also fascinating to spend more time on Laconia and see the continued evolution of the protomolecule. The scale of the story keeps expanding, and the stakes feel higher than ever.

Then there’s Amos Burton… and the change he goes through. It’s unsettling, fascinating, and somehow still perfectly Amos. His arc takes a wild turn and adds a strange, almost eerie layer to everything happening on Laconia.

Bobbie Draper didn’t just go out fighting, she went out like a Valkyrie. 🚀

33

Persepolis Rising

James S. A. Corey

Laconia has entered the chat.

As The Expanse moves into its endgame, it’s incredibly satisfying to see threads from the first six books start to come back together. The Martian deserters, the deeper strategy behind the Free Navy attacks, and the reveal of Laconia as a rising power all begin to click into place.

What once felt like separate conflicts — Earth, Mars, the Belt — suddenly feels like setup for something much bigger. Laconia’s emergence shifts the scale of the story in a major way, raising the stakes from system-wide conflict to something far more ominous.

You can really feel the series leveling up here, everything tightening, everything building toward something bigger. My only real gripe is the time jump. It makes sense in the context of the story, but it’s still a little bittersweet to see the crew of the Rocinante starting to drift in different directions.

32

Babylon’s Ashes

James S. A. Corey

Seeing Marco Inaros finally get what he had coming in Babylon’s Ashes was satisfying, but also a bit anticlimactic. After everything he set in motion, the resolution feels quieter and less direct than you might expect.

It’s also a bit disorienting at times, jumping between the many fronts of the conflict as Earth struggles to respond to the Free Navy attacks. The story sprawls across the system, with disparate battles and shifting perspectives that reflect the chaos of the moment, but can make it feel less focused than earlier entries.

Still, that scattered structure underscores the scale of what’s happening: a fractured system trying to pull itself back together after near collapse.

31

Nemesis Games

James S. A. Corey

Nemesis Games by James S. A. Corey is where everything starts to fracture. As humanity pushes out to colonize new worlds, the old power structures begin to crumble, leading to chaos, disappearing ships, and devastating terrorist attacks across the system.

For the first time, the crew of the Rocinante is split up, each dealing with their own personal and political crises. Naomi’s storyline, in particular, hits hard as her past with the Free Navy comes crashing back into her life.

And then there’s Marco Inaros and Filip Inaros… just the absolute worst. Frustrating, manipulative, and all too effective as antagonists, you can’t stand them, which honestly just makes the story work even better.

Also really cool to see the story of Amos Burton and Clarissa Mao on Earth after the meteor strikes. It almost feels like a companion piece to The Churn, revisiting that same brutal, survival-driven version of Earth. Seeing Amos back in that environment, and how he navigates it now, adds a lot of depth to his character and makes that storyline especially compelling.

30

Cibola Burn

James S. A. Corey

I really enjoyed Cibola Burn by James S. A. Corey. The crew of the Rocinante is sent to the first human colony on the new world of Ilus to mediate a conflict, but quickly find themselves caught in a much larger struggle for survival, and a deepening mystery surrounding the planet’s past.

The journey through the ring gates and onto humanity’s first new world feels like a major turning point for the series. The setting is fresh, dangerous, and unpredictable, with alien ecosystems and strange phenomena that constantly raise the stakes.

And then there’s Miller. His final appearance adds a layer of weight and closure that really lands, tying together the protomolecule storyline in a satisfying way.

It’s a shift from the more political and solar system-focused conflicts of earlier books, but that change of scale and setting makes it one of the most memorable entries in the series.

29

Kitchen Confidential

Anthony Bourdain

Raw, edgy, and completely absorbing. It reads less like a traditional memoir and more like being pulled into the back door of a restaurant kitchen at midnight and shown how everything really works.

Some parts feel a bit dated now, especially the hard-living, hard-drinking kitchen culture that defined the industry in the 80s and 90s, but that honesty is also what makes the book so compelling. Bourdain doesn’t romanticize the profession. Instead, he lays bare the chaos, ego, exhaustion, and strange camaraderie that define life in professional kitchens.

More than anything, the book is an immersive look into the restaurant world from someone who truly lived it. Bourdain’s voice is sharp, funny, and brutally candid, and you come away feeling like you’ve seen the industry from the inside, burn scars, late nights, and all.

28

Memory’s Legion

James S. A. Corey

Waiting for Cibola Burn so I tackled the first half of this collection of short stories set in The Expanse Universe.

Drive _The introduction of the Epstein Drive is both thrilling and bittersweet. From the moment the test begins, you realize the groundbreaking engine that will revolutionize space travel is also slowly killing the man narrating the story. That tension, between historic discovery and personal tragedy, makes the entire piece feel haunting and memorable.

The Butcher of Anderson Station _ This novella shows the moment that defined Fred Johnson. It’s one of the strongest novellas in the series. Fred is such a memorable and transformative character, and getting to see the event that ultimately pushes him toward the OPA adds a lot of depth to everything that follows in the main story. It’s a really compelling piece of the larger Expanse universe.

Gods of Risk _ A solid but slower story set on Mars after the events of Caliban’s War, as Bobbie Draper tries to figure out what to do with herself. It’s interesting to get a closer look at everyday life in Martian society, which the main books only hint at. However, much of the story follows Bobbie’s gifted but naïve nephew, and that perspective doesn’t feel quite as compelling given everything else happening in the series at this point. It’s a worthwhile side story, but not one of the most gripping entries in the Expanse universe.

The Churn _ The one that really stands out among the The Expanse novellas. Set in the underbelly of Baltimore, it dives into the twisted and deeply sad backstory of Amos Burton. The story paints a grim picture of Earth’s seedy underworld while giving real perspective on why Amos is the way he is and the events that eventually lead him to the Rocinante. It’s not exactly flattering—or even particularly comforting—for such a beloved character in the series. In fact, parts of it are awkward and unsettling. But that’s also what makes it so compelling. It’s a dark, captivating story that adds real depth to one of The Expanse’s most fascinating characters.

The Vital Abyss _ Focuses on the scientist Paolo Cortázar and his connection to the protomolecule research. It’s an interesting story in concept, but it felt like a bit of a slog—mostly because Cortázar is a character you never really grow to like at any point in the series. The novella spends a lot of time inside his head, which can make the pacing drag. For me, it mainly served to fill in the gaps between the raid on the station and when Cortázar eventually reappears on Laconia later in the series… and that’s about it.

And I’ll tackle the rest of the novellas once I’m done with the series.

27

Operation Bounce House

Matt Dinniman

I was excited about Operation Bounce House. I’ve read all the Dungeon Crawler Carl books by Matt Dinniman, so I was really curious to see what he’d do stepping outside that universe.

Unfortunately, it felt like the exact same formula—just without the characters, charm, or compelling story that make Dungeon Crawler Carl work so well. I just couldn’t get into this one.

It almost felt like Dinniman had an idea for another level of the DCC dungeon and decided to spin it into a standalone novel instead. The structure and tone are all there, but without the heart that makes that series so much fun.

Same recipe—just this time it felt soulless: rogue AI, check. Non-PC humor, check. Convoluted rules of engagement, check. Stereotypes, check. Disappointed… but still excited for the next Dungeon Crawler Carl book.

26

Abaddon’s Gate

James S. A. Corey

The third installment in The Expanse series, and while it didn’t feel quite as explosive as the first two books, it’s still a strong and compelling entry.

It may be the shift in focus—spending more time with characters outside the core Rocinante crew—or the reduced emphasis on protomolecule chaos, but the energy feels more contained this time around. That said, the broader perspective adds depth to the political and ideological tensions building across the system.

One of the most interesting aspects is seeing how the characters of Pa and Bull were combined to create Drummer in the TV adaptation (The Expanse)—especially considering Drummer later appears in the books as her own distinct character. It’s a fascinating example of an adaptation streamlining characters while still honoring the spirit of the story. Then there’s Ashford, who serves as an antagonist in both the book and the show. In the novel he’s pretty irredeemable, but the series turns him into a far more complex—and surprisingly likable—character. It’s a great example of how adaptations can reshape characters in ways that actually elevate them.

Ultimately, this book feels like major setup for what’s to come. The pieces are moving into place, the stakes are expanding, and even if it’s more deliberate in pace, it’s still an exciting and worthwhile read.

25

Caliban’s War

James S. A. Corey

Second book in The Expanse series, Caliban’s War is an exciting ride from start to finish. The tension is nonstop, the stakes are massive, and the world-building in this second installment of The Expanse series is incredible. Action-packed, gripping, and hard to put down. Such a cliffhanger ending.

24

Neuromancer

William Gibson

I finally read Neuromancer by William Gibson, and I’m honestly stunned. Knowing it was published in 1984 makes it even more mind-blowing—this book laid the foundation for so much of modern science fiction, cyberpunk, AI narratives, video games, and even our cultural understanding of “the internet” before it really existed.

The story can be disorienting at times—Gibson drops you straight into the deep end with little hand-holding—but that’s part of its power. The dystopian, high-tech future he builds feels hypnotic, gritty, and fully immersive. The vibe is unmatched: neon-soaked, corporate-dominated, and wired into the bones of pop culture as we know it.

At its core, it’s a high-stakes heist—dense, cerebral, and intense. Even when it’s confusing, it’s compelling. You can feel the DNA of decades of sci-fi pulsing through every page.

23

Mistborn: The Well of Ascension

Brandon Sanderson

I was really excited to dive into Mistborn: The Well of Ascension after loving the first book—but I have to admit, this one disappointed me. For what felt like three-quarters of the story, it was “Vin loves Elend,” “Elend loves Vin,” on repeat, ad nauseam. The pacing dragged, and the political maneuvering never quite built the same tension or urgency as the first installment.

And when the action finally does kick in, it just doesn’t land with the same impact. Straff Venture—positioned as the big bad for most of the book—dies so quickly you could almost miss it. Compared to the intensity and payoff of book one, this sequel felt underwhelming. I’ll read the third book but I’m not in a rush.

22

Leviathan Wakes

James S.A. Corey

One of my all-time favorite sci-fi series—both the books and the show. I’ll admit I’m biased, having reread the novels and rewatched the series more times than I can count, but this may be the best hard sci-fi out there. The world building is stellar (pun intended), grounded, and believable. The physics of space travel feels authentic in a way that few stories do (looking at you Star Wars, Dune, Star Trek). I just love returning to this universe.

21

All Quiet on the Western Front

Erich Maria Remarque

All Quiet on the Western Front is a brutal and unforgiving classic that feels strikingly modern despite being written in 1929. Remarque’s spare, unflinching prose captures both the psychological and physical toll of war, making the themes of disillusionment, camaraderie, and lost youth feel timeless rather than historical. The depiction of World War I trenches is especially powerful—the claustrophobic atmosphere and constant tension create a suffocating sense of dread that lingers long after each page. It’s a stark, haunting change of pace from my last book, but an unforgettable and deeply affecting one.

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Mistborn: The Final Empire

Brandon Sanderson

Well darn it. I stepped right in it. Heard nothing but great things about this fantasy series and it immediately hooked me. Sanderson is prolific to say the least so I’m a little worried this list might end up just being Brandon Sanderson books for the next 6 years but what can you do.

Mistborn: The Final Empire pulled me in from the very first pages and never let go. Sanderson’s richly built world felt immersive and original, and I quickly became invested in Vin, Kelsier, and the rest of the crew as they navigated both political intrigue and personal growth. The magic system was inventive and clearly structured, which made every twist feel earned rather than convenient. By the final 25% of the book, the pace and stakes escalated in a way that was genuinely thrilling, making the ending both satisfying and unforgettable.

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PMP Exam Prep Simplified

Andrew Ramdayal

This one is going to take awhile. Imagine reading the dictionary, now add some PowerPoint slides and a few charts. This one is a thicc boy too. It’s not completely unapproachable but each time you open it, it gives off “you’re getting sleepy” vibes. I’m excited for the PMP exam and thank goodness there are other tools in addition to this book. I’ll keep powering through but this one is a tough read.

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System Collapse

Martha Wells

Murderbot. Last one I think… then I’m on to something else. More fun than reading a PMP Study book either way! I’m not sure I loved this one. I feel like the just when Wells found her voice she became monotone. The books are still enjoyable but the last two have felt very redundant. Even when something exciting happens it’s just going through the paces. Hack, get injured, solve issue, repeat.

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Fugitive Telemetry

Martha Wells

Murderbot. This one is kind of a stand-alone mystery of the week. Not my favorite of the series, and I feel like it lost the momentum Network Effect built, but still enjoyable. Wells is fully feeling the world of Murderbot, and the books are fun and short.

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Light Bringer

Pierce Brown

One of my favorites of the series. Action-packed and gory, but this series always is. This volume wasn’t so dark as the previous one (yes, I know it’s called Dark Age), but where that one was unrelenting and grim, this one was almost fun at times. Super bummed about one of the deaths and its circumstances, but some great intrigue and an awesome setup for the final book in the series. Which, thanks to Light Bringer, I’m actually excited for.

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Network Effect

Martha Wells

Murderbot Diaries continue. ART is back, which is fun. This is by far the longest book in the series, which is kind of weird. They go from 3-hour reads to multiple-day reads. It’s a good story, though and really opens up the world of the series.

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Exit Strategy

Martha Wells

Okay, guess I’m hooked on the Murderbot Diaries. The books are super short, which helps me cruise through them. Still enjoying them. This book actually wraps up most of the events from the first book in the series, which is satisfying. The writing continues to improve, and it feels like Wells has really found Sec Units’ voice.

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Farenheit 451

Ray Bradbury

Classic. I’ve never read it, so I figured, why not? Holy stressful and way too close to modern life. Old Guy Montag questions his role, his values, and society. And then everything goes off the rails. It’s over the top but still relevant. It moves so fast, but it’s not a bad thing. If it was any longer, the reader would be able to take it.

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Rogue Protocol

Martha Wells

More Murderbot. I feel like this 3rd book in the series improves on almost everything. The writing feels more natural and flows better; the character is more realized. Plus, it’s funnier and super short. Needed a break from all the fantasy.

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Artificial Condition

Martha Wells

I wasn’t sure about continuing this series, but I love sci-fi, and the original showed enough promise to continue. I’m glad I did. It’s short, geeky, and funny.

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The Return of the King

J.R.R. Tolkien

Working on finishing this series off. Mr. Frodo can’t toss the ring away. Aragorn can heals everyone. Sam is a real hero, and a real hobbit being. Good stuff. There’s so much after Mt. Doom that isn’t in the movies.

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The Two Towers

J.R.R. Tolkien

After the Dark Age this is a breath of fresh air. A second breakfast, a bit of lambus bread with some friends. Feels good. Although it does get pretty hairy when the party is separated, and everyone thinks Gandalf is dead. I feel like Faramir is the unsung hero of this book. Guy is totally noble and way more of a composed leader than his brother Boromir. Sam also steps up big time. And we get “PO-TAE-TOES”. So much to like, except Shelob. No one likes Shelob.

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Dark Age

Pierce Brown

Back to it… Book 6 in the Red Rising series. Sci-fi space murder and treachery. Immediate and unrelenting carnage. I’m not sure if these books are fun to read or a slog. I think I enjoy them but there is so much gore it’s hard to take at times. Plus, the characters either get maimed every chapter or die. It’s a lot. These books make we want to take a break from reading but I kind of also enjoy the story. There’s only one more of this series out right now but I might take some time before I venture back into this universe. I do want to see the conclusion. There are some great characters, and the world building is interesting, but the formula wears on me.

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The Fellowship of the Ring

J.R.R. Tolkien

More please. This is a book about starting something enormous with no guarantee it will work. Everyone is underqualified. Everyone is scared. The task is impossible. And yet—they go. This book is goofy and wonderful. Tom Bombadil is a weirdo. Tom Bombadil is stuck in my head for some reason. This just makes you appreciate Tolkien even more. What a legend. The world he builds is not just ahead of it’s time it’s the basis for every fantasy story that came after… which is like ALL of them. Excited to continue the journey.

07

The Hobbit

J.R.R. Tolkien

Okay, this is more like it. A tonal shift in my reading, because eventually you need comfort food for the soul. The Hobbit is cozy, adventurous, and optimistic. This book made me marvel at the brilliance and imagination of J.R.R. Tolkien. The Hobbit was published in 1937! It’s amazing. Also, no one in this book has LinkedIn or Instagram. It’s about adventure and getting out of your comfort zone. It’s meandering at times but isn’t that the whole point?

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The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

Mark Manson

Change of pace. Some good advice but also some common sense logic and some cringy storytelling. I’m not sure I’d recommend this book but it does make sense. Care about the things that are worth it, the things you can actually control. I think that’s good advice.

05

Iron Gold

Pierce Brown

Darn it. I might need a break from this series. I’m really enjoying it but it’s super violent and depressing. This is the first of the series with multiple points of view or narrators. I actually really liked that aspect. Iron Gold is what happens after the revolution. Spoiler: fixing things is harder than breaking them. Note to self: Take a break from this series and read something more positive.

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Morning Star

Pierce Brown

Morning Star is about endurance. About surviving long enough to become something else. Something sharper. If the first book was anger and the second was disillusionment, this one is resolve. At this point in the trilogy, I was emotionally invested, mildly unhinged, and deeply committed to seeing it through.

03

Golden Son

Pierce Brown

Golden Son is Red Rising with fewer illusions and more consequences. Everyone is smarter. Everyone is angrier. Everyone could die at any time and it will probably be gory. Engaging read that I honestly liked a bit more than Red Rising because it was a little less Hogwarts and a bit more political intrigue. Guess I’m hooked.

02

Red Rising

Pierce Brown

This book is what happens when rage, ambition, and class warfare put on power armor and sprint at your face. It’s brutal. It’s engaging. And it’s probably a young adult book? It starts with oppression, escalates into a Harry Potter like murder school, and then into revolution. Fun read. I’m a Sci-Fi nerd so this checked the boxes.

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