Life moves fast, but great reading doesn’t have to be long.
Whether you’re commuting, travelling, or simply carving out a quiet hour in your day, the right short read can transport you, challenge you, or move you just as deeply as a 400-page novel.
At Good E-Books, we’ve found a selection of compact, powerful stories (novellas and shorter-length reads) that you can enjoy in one sitting, a weekend, or even a lunch break.
These gems prove that sometimes less is more.
These gems prove that sometimes less is more.
Below are verified titles currently available on Good E-Books that fit the “short, impactful read” category.
The Best Short Reads Available on Good E-Books
1. Every Day - David Levithan
A powerful, thought-provoking story that can be read quickly but lingers long after you’re done.
Following A, a soul who wakes up each day in a different body, this novella-style narrative explores love, identity, and the meaning of being human.
Perfect for readers wanting emotional depth without the commitment of a long novel.
2. I Like You Like That - Kayla Grosse
A heartfelt, character-driven romance that’s warm, uplifting, and perfectly digestible for a single weekend read.
Kayla Grosse’s writing makes this a fast but emotionally rewarding journey, ideal for readers who enjoy feel-good fiction with real-world heart.
3. Owned - Lauren Landish
Short, punchy, and addictive, this romantic-suspense title delivers fast-paced storytelling with high emotional payoff.
Fans of quick reads that combine passion, danger, and tension will fly through this one.
4. Leaving Everything Most Loved - Jacqueline Winspear
Although part of a larger series, this Maisie Dobbs instalment is tight, atmospheric, and easily consumed over a couple of evenings.
Rich with introspection and mystery, it’s a wonderful, shorter read for those who enjoy historical fiction with emotional nuance.
5. Amongst Our Weapons - Ben Aaronovitch
A brisk, witty urban-fantasy–meets–detective story that moves quickly and keeps readers hooked.
With humour, magic, and a light page count compared to epic fantasy volumes, it’s a great introduction to the Rivers of London world or a satisfying standalone read for fans of short-format fantasy.
Why Short Reads Are Perfect for Busy Readers
- Immediate immersion: No long build-up — these books pull you in fast.
- Finish in a day: Ideal for travel, weekends, or evening downtime.
- High impact in fewer pages: Many short books carry more emotional weight than lengthy novels.
- Great for building a reading habit: Perfect for those trying to read more in 2025.
Short reads give you the satisfaction of finishing a book without the pressure of a huge time investment.
Ready for Your Next Bite-Sized Book?
Whether you want romance, mystery, fantasy, or reflective fiction, Good E-Books has a rich selection of shorter titles that deliver maximum impact in minimal time.