Rambler Recap: December 2025 (2025 Milestones, 2026 Goals)

'The Hunger of the Gods' continues the 'Bloodsworn' series, delving deeper into the conflicts and power struggles of a Norse-inspired world. As ancient gods awaken and their influence spreads, the characters face new threats and moral dilemmas. The narrative weaves together action, intrigue, and character development, exploring themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the consequences of past actions. The world-building remains rich and detailed, drawing on Viking sagas and mythology. The book is known for its fast-paced plot, gritty realism, and compelling characters.

This book compiles the first three official prequel novellas to George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series. It follows the journeys of Ser Duncan the Tall, a young and naive but courageous hedge knight, and his diminutive squire, Egg, who is actually Aegon Targaryen, a future king. Set nearly a century before the events of A Game of Thrones, the novellas explore an age where the Targaryen line still rules and the memory of the last dragon is still alive. The collection includes more than 160 illustrations by Gary Gianni and delves into themes of chivalry, royal intrigue, and heroic exploits.

The Odyssey, attributed to Homer, is an ancient Greek epic poem that tells the story of Odysseus, king of Ithaca, and his ten-year journey home after the Trojan War. The poem explores Odysseus's encounters with various mythical creatures, divine interventions, and natural challenges. Upon his return to Ithaca, he must confront the suitors who have been vying for his wife Penelope's hand in marriage. With the help of his son Telemachus and the goddess Athena, Odysseus devises a plan to defeat the suitors and reclaim his throne. The poem is a reflection on human nature, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions, and it remains a crucial component of ancient Greek literature and Western cultural heritage.

A Feast for Crows explores the consequences of the civil war in Westeros, with Cersei Lannister ruling as regent and new alliances forming. The book introduces new characters and plotlines while continuing the stories of Arya and Sansa Stark. It marks a shift in focus towards the political intrigue and personal struggles of the surviving characters.

The Book of the New Sun is a four-volume series that chronicles the atonement journey of Severian, a young man who is a member of the Guild of Torturers and Executioners. The story is rich in religious symbolism, particularly Christian allegory, and features a complex narrative with multiple layers of meaning. Severian's journey involves his transformation and his role in bringing redemption and resurrection to a corrupt and dying world. The series is part of Gene Wolfe's larger 'Solar Cycle' and includes intricate world-building and deep thematic exploration.

In 'Project Hail Mary', Ryland Grace, a high school science teacher, awakens on a spaceship with no memory of how he got there or his mission. He soon discovers that he is the sole survivor of a desperate mission to save Earth from a microorganism called the Astrophage, which is threatening to cause a new ice age. As Ryland regains his memories, he encounters an alien named Rocky, and together they work to solve the scientific mystery and save their respective home planets. The story blends science, humor, and heart, exploring themes of survival, discovery, and unlikely friendships.

This book surveys the history of humankind from the Stone Age to the 21st century, focusing on Homo sapiens. It divides human history into four major parts: the Cognitive Revolution, the Agricultural Revolution, the Unification of Humankind, and the Scientific Revolution. Harari argues that Homo sapiens dominate the world due to their unique ability to cooperate in large numbers through beliefs in imagined realities such as gods, nations, money, and human rights. The book also examines the impact of human activities on the global ecosystem and speculates on the future of humanity, including the potential for genetic engineering and non-organic life.

The Dandelion Dynasty series by Ken Liu is a reimagining of the birth of China's Han Dynasty, set in a fantasy world with elements like airships and gods. The series explores themes of power, loyalty, and the complexities of ruling. The first book, 'The Grace of Kings,' introduces two main characters, Kuni Garu and Mata Zyndu, who embody different ideals of governance.

Fire & Blood is a detailed historical account of the Targaryen dynasty in the world of Westeros. Written in the style of a historical text, it covers the conquest of Westeros by Aegon the Conqueror and his sisters, the reigns of subsequent Targaryen kings, including the long and complex reign of King Jaehaerys I, and the tumultuous events such as the Dance of the Dragons. The book is illustrated with over seventy-five black-and-white illustrations by Doug Wheatley and includes family trees and other historical details. It is the first volume of a planned two-part history, with the second volume still in the works.

In 'Red Rising: The Washington Capitals Story', Ted Starkey chronicles the transformation and resurgence of the Washington Capitals. The book includes original interviews with key figures from the team, providing a detailed and personal look at the team's history, challenges, and successes.

A Song of Ice and Fire is a series of high fantasy novels that takes place in a fictional world where seasons last for years. The story is set primarily in the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros and follows multiple plotlines, including a civil war for the Iron Throne among several competing families, the threat of the supernatural Others beyond the Wall, and the rise of dragons in the east. The series is known for its complex characters, intricate plots, and detailed world-building, drawing comparisons to J.R. R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings.

Published in 1957, 'Wheel of Time' by Harry Zarchy is a book aimed at young readers, focusing on topics related to time, calendars, and clocks. It provides an educational perspective on these subjects, likely intended to introduce children to basic concepts of timekeeping.

In 'Eragon', a young farm boy named Eragon finds a mysterious dragon egg, which hatches into the dragon Saphira. This discovery thrusts Eragon into a world of magic, destiny, and danger as he becomes a Dragon Rider, an ancient order thought to be extinct. Guided by the wise Brom, Eragon and Saphira embark on a perilous journey to hone their skills and fight against the evil King Galbatorix. The novel explores themes of courage, loyalty, and the battle between good and evil. As Eragon grows, he learns the responsibilities that come with his extraordinary destiny, setting the stage for a grand adventure.

The First Law is a grimdark fantasy series known for its morally gray characters, gritty realism, and subversive take on traditional fantasy tropes.

In 'In the Shadow of the Gods', Dominic Lieven explores the evolution of emperors across centuries, from ancient Mesopotamia to modern times. The book delves into the strengths and weaknesses of these rulers, examining their impact on politics, culture, and society. Lieven discusses notable figures like Constantine, Chinggis Khan, and Louis XIV, highlighting their contributions to empire-building and diplomacy.