A Year in the Hive
- Lance Alvarez
- Dec 30, 2024
- 5 min read
It feels like just yesterday we launched The Book Hive, eager to share our love of books with the world and build a community of fellow busy bees. The past twelve months have been a whirlwind—a mix of book reviews, thoughtful rebranding, and a serious reckoning with the structure and mission of our blog. Finding our voice and deciding what we truly want to bring to our readers has been both a challenge and a joy, but it's been a journey worth every step.
Reflecting on this past year, we’ve experienced growth and learning that have shaped who we are as a hive. Each post, each review, and each interaction with our community has helped us understand what makes The Book Hive a unique and welcoming space. As we look ahead to 2025, we’re thrilled to continue this journey, motivated by fresh insights and a renewed vision for the year to come.
To welcome the new year, we’ve unveiled a rebranding for The Book Hive (as you might have already noticed!), complete with a new website design and posting structure that launched this month. These updates aim to bring more consistency and quality to everything we offer, creating a space that reflects the vibrant, buzzing community we’re building. One thing that remains unchanged is our commitment to celebrate all books, showcasing the richness of literature and the talents of authors from every background.
The Hive Five
As we wrap up an incredible year of reading, reviewing, and buzzing about our favorite books, we’re thrilled to introduce “The Hive Five”—a roundup of the year’s top reads as chosen by each of our five blog writers. Every member of our hive has selected one standout book that left a memorable impact, from stories that made us laugh to novels that had us up all night, unable to put them down.
In this section, you’ll get a glimpse into the unique tastes and passions that each writer brings to The Book Hive. These picks highlight the diversity of stories that kept us hooked this year—books that sparked thought, fueled inspiration, or simply offered a perfect escape. Whether you’re looking for your next adventure, a tearjerker, or an inspiring read to kick off the new year, our “Hive Five” will point you in the right direction. So, cozy up and join us in celebrating the best of the best from our hive!
Lance's PickA Little Bit Countryby Brian D. Kennedy"Kennedy’s story of two young men, each facing their own struggles with identity, resonates in a way few others do. Emmett faces a decision between embracing who he is and conforming to society’s expectations to achieve his dreams, while Luke struggles to reconcile his sexuality with the religious, Southern upbringing and beliefs that have shaped his life. Weaving in themes of family, vulnerability, and the joy of exploring youth, along with the highs and lows of life and self-discovery, Kennedy hits a perfect note with this one." |  |
 | Ingrid's PickThe Seven husbands of Evelyn Hugoby Taylor Jenkins Reid"I had never ugly-cried so hard while reading a book until this one. The raw, emotional journey Reid creates through the eyes of Evelyn grabs you from the start and keeps you in a chokehold until the very last page. Each new stage of Evelyn's life brings a surprise, an unexpected twist, or a tragic reality that keeps you guessing the entire time. It’s a gripping portrayal of the harsh realities of stardom and the often unavoidable sacrifices that come with it." |
Victor's PickThe Search for Usby Susan Azim Boyer"I didn't expect this book to hit me so hard, but from the very first page, I was pulled into this raw and deeply moving story. Samira's journey of balancing fierce dedication to her family with her own dreams hit close to home. And Henry's struggle between two worlds felt like a reflection of anyone who has ever felt misunderstood. Boyer's writing draws you into their story as their DNA test in search of their father unfolds into a poignant exploration of belonging, loss, and the bonds that only family can fill, uncovering more than they ever bargained for." |  |
 | Amanda's PickRestless Starsby Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti"After waiting over a year for the conclusion to the Zodiac Academy series, the Twisted Sisters (as the authors are known) did not disappoint! This world-altering conclusion to an epic saga that began with two orphans drawn into a world of magic and conflict had all the makings of a perfect finale: raw emotion, nail-biting suspense, and a satisfying conclusion for every character. It was the perfect close to Tory and Darcy's story while leaving the door open for the future." |
Noah's PickA Crown of Hopes and Sorrowsby Nicole Bailey"Picking just one book to top my list this year was difficult, but after starting the Apollo Ascending series earlier on, this book has not left my mind. As a mythology fanatic, the story of Apollo and Hyacinthus has always been one of my favorites, right alongside Eros and Psyche, and Bailey has done an incredible job reimagining their tragic love story into a fast-paced, heart-pounding epic that had me hanging on her every word. It was a refreshing and original perspective on a story that has been told countless times over the years." |  |
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we step into 2025, we’re buzzing with excitement for everything the new year will bring. January is a month of fresh starts, and here at The Book Hive, we’re ready to dive into our theme for the month: Self-Help. This genre feels like the perfect beginning for a new chapter, inviting us all to reflect, reset, and focus on growth—whether that’s setting goals, improving our well-being, or exploring ways to live with more intention.
For many, January is a time for resolutions, and we’re here to provide inspiration with a selection of self-help books that offer practical advice, gentle motivation, and empowering perspectives to start the year on a positive note. Our picks next month will focus on everything from mindfulness and productivity to personal fulfillment and resilience, helping each of us take the small steps needed to create meaningful change.
We’re so grateful to have you as part of our hive and look forward to another year of discovery, inspiration, and, of course, great reads. Here’s to a bright 2025 filled with growth, stories, and the joy of reading together! 🐝
Join In On The Buzz
Are you passionate about discovering new authors and diving into captivating stories? Join our Busy Bee Book Club and become part of a vibrant community of readers!
The BBBC was born to create a book community for people with busy personal and professional lives still seeking that bookish connection with fellow bookworms. Each month, we explore a new author's work, share our reading list based on the month's genre, and share our love for literature. Don't miss out on the opportunity to connect with fellow book lovers and deepen your reading experience. Join us today and be part of the hive!
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