10 Must-Read Books of 2025 So Far
Hey book lovers! Want to know what’s been making waves in 2025? We’ve rounded up the top 10 must-reads that are shaking up the literary world this year. From gripping thrillers to heart-wrenching dramas, these books are all set to blow your mind. Let’s dive into what makes these picks absolute fire.
1. James by Percival Everett
Specs:
- Genre: Literary Fiction
- Pages: 368
- Publisher: Graywolf Press
- Release Date: March 5, 2024
Everett’s James tops our list with a fresh twist on The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. This novel gives Jim, the enslaved character, a voice and a story that’s both hilarious and profound. As Jim escapes his fate, he teams up with Huck on a wild Mississippi journey. Everett’s brilliant retelling is an American classic in the making.
2. The Women by Kristin Hannah
Specs:
- Genre: Historical Fiction
- Pages: 416
- Publisher: St. Martin’s Press
- Release Date: February 20, 2024
The Women shines a light on the unsung heroes of war—combat nurses. Follow Frankie McGrath’s journey from a naive volunteer in Vietnam to a woman facing the harsh realities upon returning home. Kristin Hannah’s powerful narrative is both touching and enlightening.
3. All the Worst Humans by Phil Elwood
Specs:
- Genre: Memoir
- Pages: 352
- Publisher: HarperCollins
- Release Date: April 10, 2024
In All the Worst Humans, Elwood spills the beans on his wild career as a PR fixer. With tales of scandal and high-stakes manipulation, this memoir reads like a thriller. Elwood’s exposé of power and corruption is a rollercoaster of jaw-dropping revelations.
4. The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley
Specs:
- Genre: Sci-Fi/Thriller
- Pages: 400
- Publisher: Random House
- Release Date: May 7, 2024
Imagine a time-travel spy thriller with a love story twist. The Ministry of Time takes you to near-future London where historical figures are paired with modern-day guides. It’s a genre-blending adventure that’s both thought-provoking and entertaining.
5. Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar
Specs:
- Genre: Literary Fiction
- Pages: 384
- Publisher: Knopf
- Release Date: January 16, 2024
Poet Kaveh Akbar makes a stunning fiction debut with Martyr!. The story follows Cyrus Shams, a young man seeking purpose and inspiration in New York City. This novel is electric, blending humor and depth in a voice that’s both unique and captivating.
6. Nuclear War by Annie Jacobsen
Specs:
- Genre: Non-Fiction
- Pages: 432
- Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
- Release Date: June 4, 2024
Annie Jacobsen’s Nuclear War is a pulse-pounding, non-fiction thriller that imagines a North Korean nuke hitting the U.S. With a meticulous breakdown of potential fallout and a gripping narrative style, this book is both terrifying and unforgettable.
7. All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
Specs:
- Genre: Mystery/Thriller
- Pages: 368
- Publisher: Sphere
- Release Date: July 23, 2024
All the Colors of the Dark kicks off with a chilling kidnapping and follows two childhood friends as they unravel a long-standing mystery. Chris Whitaker’s storytelling is vivid and emotional, making this a compelling read about friendship, love, and danger.
8. Lies and Weddings by Kevin Kwan
Specs:
- Genre: Contemporary Fiction
- Pages: 432
- Publisher: Penguin Press
- Release Date: August 6, 2024
Kevin Kwan is back with Lies and Weddings, a glamorous tale of family and intrigue. Set against the backdrop of a lavish wedding, this novel is a juicy exploration of secrets and scandals. It’s like a high-end vacation wrapped in a book.
9. Lost Man’s Lane by Scott Carson
Specs:
- Genre: Supernatural/Coming-of-Age
- Pages: 384
- Publisher: Dutton
- Release Date: September 10, 2024
Lost Man’s Lane combines ‘90s nostalgia with supernatural twists in a gripping coming-of-age story. Carson’s evocative writing and the intriguing plot make this a page-turner that explores fear, growth, and the unknown.
10. This Could Be Us by Kennedy Ryan
Specs:
- Genre: Contemporary Fiction
- Pages: 416
- Publisher: Atria Books
- Release Date: October 1, 2024
Kennedy Ryan’s This Could Be Us dives deep into themes of divorce, self-discovery, and resilience. With a relatable narrative about Soledad navigating a tough life transition, this book offers lessons in self-love and personal growth that are both heartfelt and inspiring.
That’s It
These books are sure to make waves and stir up all kinds of feels. Whether you’re into epic adventures, deep introspections, or thrilling mysteries, there’s something here for everyone. Happy reading, and don’t forget to check back for more hot takes on the latest literary hits!
