Last updated on July 1st, 2025 at 09:13 pm
I’ll admit it: I’ve spent more nights than I care to count curled up with a book, promising myself, “Just one more chapter…”—only to stumble into work the next morning with bleary eyes and a heart still pounding from a jaw-dropping plot twist.
But here’s the thing: finding truly great reads isn’t always easy, especially with nearly half of people admitting they haven’t read a book in over a year and the book market expected to top $30 billion in 2025.
Key Takeaways
Curated book lists help you find hidden gems and avoid reading duds, making your reading time more rewarding.
Fiction remains a favorite for many readers, offering immersive stories that can change how you see the world.
Nonfiction books are growing in popularity and can inspire new ideas, challenge your views, and spark important conversations.
Debut authors bring fresh voices and bold ideas, so exploring new writers can lead to exciting discoveries.
Genre fiction like thrillers, fantasy, and romance offers thrilling escapes and emotional connections for every mood.
Memoirs and biographies provide honest, personal stories that help readers feel less alone and more understood.
Editors’ and critics’ picks, along with bestseller lists, are reliable guides to books that many readers love and trust.
26 Must-Read Books of 2025
I have to confess, I’ve pulled more all-nighters for books than I ever did for exams. My nightstand looks like a literary Jenga tower, and my phone’s Notes app is a graveyard of half-finished reading lists. But here’s why I keep coming back for more: the right book at the right time can change everything.
That’s why I poured my heart (and a few too many cups of coffee) into curating The Must-Read Books of 2025. This isn’t just another list. I’ve scoured expert panels, pored over sales stats, and even eavesdropped on heated bookstore debates to make sure every pick earns its spot.
Note: The Must-Read Books of 2025 draws on both expert and public opinion. Lists like Atlantic Canada’s 100 Greatest Books and The Irish Times’ top 100 combine thousands of votes from critics, authors, and everyday readers. That means these picks aren’t just my favorites—they’re the ones everyone’s talking about.
Fiction
I always start with fiction because, honestly, it’s my comfort food. Fiction makes up about 20–30% of global trade book revenue, and I see why. Nothing beats the feeling of getting lost in a story that leaves you breathless or makes you laugh out loud at 2 a.m. Here are the novels that made me forget to eat, sleep, or check my phone:
1. The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
I know, I know—this one’s a modern classic. But every time I reread it, I find something new. Tartt’s writing is lush and immersive. The story follows Theo, a boy whose life changes after a tragedy at an art museum. I remember reading this on a rainy weekend, curled up in my favorite chair, and feeling like I’d stepped into another world. The Goldfinch isn’t just a book; it’s an experience.
2. In Memoriam by Alice Winn
This novel left me gasping. Set during World War I, it explores friendship, love, and loss with a raw honesty that had me reaching for tissues more than once. Winn’s prose is both delicate and devastating. I read it in one sitting, heart pounding, unable to look away. If you want a story that lingers long after the last page, this is it.
3. Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
Napolitano’s latest is a love letter to family and forgiveness. The characters feel so real, I half-expected them to text me after I finished. I have to give props to the way she weaves hope and heartbreak together. I read this one on a sunny afternoon in the park, and I swear the world felt a little brighter afterward.
4. Playworld by Adam Ross
Playworld surprised me. It’s sharp, witty, and full of unexpected turns. Ross captures the chaos of childhood and the messiness of growing up. I found myself laughing out loud, then suddenly reflecting on my own past. This book proves that fiction can be both fun and profound.
5. Mothers and Sons by Adam Haslett
Haslett’s collection dives deep into the complexities of family. Each story is a little gem—some sparkling, some sharp-edged. I read these stories in between subway stops, and more than once, I missed my station because I was so absorbed. If you love stories that pack an emotional punch, don’t skip this one.
6. Vantage Point by Sarah Sligar
Vantage Point stood out for its atmosphere and tension. Vantage Point hooked me from the first page. I read it in one sitting, heart racing, lights dimmed. Vogue’s selections always seem to balance historical depth, critical acclaim, and a sense of what’s new and relevant.
Sligar’s writing is crisp and suspenseful. The plot twists kept me guessing, and the characters felt achingly real. I finished it in a single weekend, fueled by coffee and pure adrenaline.
7. The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami
Lalami’s novel is a masterclass in atmosphere. The Dream Hotel blends mystery, memory, and longing in a way that’s both haunting and beautiful. I read it late at night, the house quiet, and felt chills more than once. This is the kind of book that makes you question what’s real.
8. Firstborn Girls by Bernice L.
Firstborn Girls explores the bonds between sisters with warmth and honesty. I saw pieces of my own family in these pages. The dialogue crackles, and the emotions run deep. I found myself rooting for every character, flaws and all.
9. Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
McConaghy’s writing is wild and lyrical. Wild Dark Shore swept me away with its vivid landscapes and fierce characters. I read it during a thunderstorm, and the mood matched the story perfectly. This book is for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and a touch of the unknown.
📊 Did you know? Fiction sales keep climbing, with romance, mystery, and thrillers leading the charge. Audiobooks and eBooks are booming, too. The Must-Read Books of 2025 reflects these trends, making sure every kind of reader finds something to love.
Nonfiction
Sometimes, I crave stories that are stranger—and truer—than fiction. Nonfiction shapes how we see the world. The market for nonfiction is growing, with revenue expected to hit $15.78 billion in 2025. These books sparked new ideas, challenged my assumptions, and sometimes made me laugh out loud in public (awkward, but worth it).
10. An Indigenous People’s History of the United States by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz
This book changed how I think about American history. Dunbar-Ortiz gives voice to stories often left out of textbooks. I read it slowly, taking notes and pausing to reflect. It’s essential reading for anyone who wants a fuller picture of our past.
11. We Can Do Hard Things by Glennon Doyle
Doyle’s memoir is like a pep talk from your bravest friend. She writes about struggle, resilience, and finding joy in chaos. I picked this up during a rough patch, and it felt like a lifeline. Her honesty is both comforting and inspiring.
12. Baking Across America: A Vintage Recipe Road Trip by B. Dylan Hollis
I have a soft spot for food writing, and this book delivers. Baking Across America is part travelogue, part recipe collection. I tried the cinnamon rolls recipe on a lazy Sunday, and my kitchen smelled like heaven. Even if you’re not a baker, the stories behind each recipe make this a treat.
13. Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler
Butler’s vision of the future is chilling and thought-provoking. I read this with a sense of dread and hope, all at once. Her storytelling is powerful, and the themes feel more relevant than ever. This book made me question what I’d do in a world turned upside down.
14. Parable of the Talents by Octavia E. Butler
The sequel raises the stakes even higher. Butler explores faith, leadership, and survival with unflinching honesty. I finished this one late at night, heart racing, and immediately wanted to talk about it with someone. If you loved the first, you need to read this.
Nonfiction isn’t just about facts. It shapes cultural conversations, sparks debate, and inspires change. Publishers are investing more in diverse voices and digital platforms, making nonfiction more accessible than ever.
Debuts
There’s nothing like the thrill of discovering a new voice. Debut authors bring fresh perspectives and bold ideas. I always keep an eye on prize lists and buzz from indie publishers—many of whom champion diverse and niche genres. The Must-Read Books of 2025 wouldn’t be complete without these standouts.
15. Things in Nature Merely Grow by Yiyun Li
Li’s debut is quiet but powerful. Her prose is spare, yet every word lands with weight. I read this on a quiet morning, coffee in hand, and felt a sense of calm wash over me. It’s a meditation on growth, loss, and the beauty of small moments.
16. The Devils by Joe Abercrombie
Abercrombie’s first novel is a wild ride. The world-building is top-notch, and the characters leap off the page. I tore through this book in a weekend, barely coming up for air. If you love fantasy with grit and heart, don’t miss this one.
17. Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez
Happy Land is a revelation. Perkins-Valdez writes with empathy and insight, exploring themes of belonging and identity. I found myself thinking about this book long after I finished. It’s the kind of debut that makes you excited for whatever the author does next.
📚 Fun fact: Debut novels are making waves in 2025, with several landing on major prize lists. New voices are getting the recognition they deserve, and I couldn’t be happier to share them with you.
Thrillers, romance, sci-fi, and translated works all have a place here. Independent publishers and a growing focus on diversity mean there’s something for everyone in The Must-Read Books of 2025.
18. Atmosphere – A Love Story by Taylor Jenkins Reid
I picked up Atmosphere – A Love Story on a rainy Saturday, thinking I’d read a few chapters. I finished it in one sitting, heart pounding and eyes misty. Reid’s writing always pulls me in, but this one felt different. She captures the ache of longing and the thrill of new love with such honesty. The characters felt so real, I wanted to text them for advice. If you want a romance that feels both epic and intimate, this is your book.
19. King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby
I’ll be honest, I grabbed King of Ashes because I loved Cosby’s earlier work. This one did not disappoint. The story moves fast, with twists that made me gasp out loud. Cosby’s voice is gritty and sharp, but there’s a surprising tenderness underneath. I read this one on a crowded train, completely oblivious to the world around me. If you like your thrillers with heart, you’ll want this on your list.
20. Fog and Fury by Rachel Howzell Hall
Fog and Fury hooked me from the first page. Hall’s writing is crisp, and the suspense builds with every chapter. I found myself holding my breath, desperate to know what would happen next. The setting is so vivid, I could almost feel the fog rolling in. This book is perfect for anyone who loves a good mystery with a strong sense of place.
21. Sunrise on the Reaping (A Hunger Games Novel) by Suzanne Collins
I’ll be honest, I cleared my calendar for this release. I even pre-ordered and tracked the shipping like a kid waiting for a birthday present. When the book finally landed on my doorstep, I dove in right away—no snacks, no distractions, just me and Panem. Collins knows how to build tension. Every chapter left me breathless, heart pounding, and desperate to know what would happen next. I read until my eyes burned, promising myself, “Just one more chapter…” (Spoiler: I finished it in a single sitting.)
What sets this book apart isn’t just the action. Collins digs deep into the politics and emotions of her world. I found myself rooting for characters I never expected to love. The writing is sharp, the stakes feel real, and the twists? Jaw-dropping. I have to give props—Collins still knows how to surprise me, even after all these years. If you loved the original trilogy, this one will leave you gasping and maybe even a little teary-eyed.
22. The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig
I stumbled across The Knight and the Moth thanks to a late-night scroll through bookish social media. Sometimes, the best discoveries happen by accident. This fantasy adventure surprised me with its lyrical prose and unexpected warmth. The world-building is rich, and the characters lingered in my mind long after I finished. If you’re looking for something a little different, give this one a try.
📚 Genre fiction is booming right now. Readers want stories that transport them—whether to another world, a different time, or just a new way of seeing things. The Must-Read Books of 2025 delivers on that promise.
Memoir & Biography
I have a weakness for memoirs. There’s something about reading someone’s true story that makes me feel less alone. This year, memoir and biography titles are having a moment. I noticed more creativity, more diversity, and more raw honesty than ever before.
23. The Antidote by Karen Russell
The Antidote left me reeling. Russell’s voice is sharp, funny, and deeply vulnerable. She writes about grief and hope in a way that made me laugh and cry—sometimes on the same page. I read this one late at night, curled up with a mug of tea, and felt like I was talking with an old friend.
24. Audition by Katie Kitamura
Audition is a masterclass in restraint. Kitamura’s memoir is spare but powerful. She explores ambition, identity, and the cost of chasing your dreams. I found myself reflecting on my own choices, wondering what I might risk for a shot at something bigger. This book is quiet, but it packs a punch.
25. The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong
I have to give props to Ocean Vuong. The Emperor of Gladness is both poetic and brutally honest. Vuong’s reflections on family, loss, and joy hit me right in the gut. I read this one slowly, savoring every sentence. It’s the kind of memoir that changes how you see the world.
Memoir and biography are shining in 2025. The National Book Critics Circle Autobiography Shortlist is stronger than ever, with judges praising the diversity and creativity in this year’s picks. Even the Pulitzer Prize went to a memoir that blends personal and historical stories, showing just how powerful this genre can be. Editors and critics call these books “unmissable”—and I agree.
26. Dream Count by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Dream Count swept me away. Adichie’s storytelling is rich and layered. She brings Nigerian culture to life with warmth and honesty. I read this one on a sunny afternoon, feeling transported across continents. Adichie’s voice is essential for anyone who wants to understand the world a little better.
I have to give props to the book community: in-person events, author signings, and even those quirky newsletters always pull me deeper into the reading world.
Sip The Unknown—Discover Stories You Never Knew You’d Love!
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Biography & Memoir
Fiction
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Nonfiction
Philosophy
Psychology
Romance
Science Fiction & Fantasy
Teens & Young Adult
Thriller & Suspense
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you choose which books make the list?
I obsess over reviews, sales, and what keeps me up at night. I trust my gut, but I also listen to critics, friends, and even random bookstore conversations. If a book leaves me gasping or grinning like a fool, it’s in.
What if I don’t like a book you recommend?
Honestly, I’ve DNF’d (did not finish) plenty of hyped books. Reading is personal. If you hate a pick, I won’t take it personally. Drop your thoughts in the comments—I love a good debate over coffee and cookies.
Are these books good for book clubs?
Absolutely! I’ve tested many of these on my own book club (shoutout to my fellow night owls). Most spark lively discussions, a few heated debates, and at least one group text meltdown. I always look for books that get people talking.
Do you read print, e-books, or audiobooks?
All of the above! I love the smell of new paperbacks, but my e-reader saves my back on the subway. Audiobooks? Total lifesaver for laundry day. I’ll take a good story any way I can get it.
How do you find time to read so much?
I sacrifice sleep, ignore chores, and sometimes read in the grocery line. I sneak chapters during lunch and listen to audiobooks while folding laundry. My secret? I treat reading like self-care—because it is.
