As we step into 2025, the literary world is brimming with exciting new releases set to captivate readers across all genres. From beloved authors like Emily Henry, Nicola Dinan, and Emma Gannon returning with fresh novels to thrilling debuts from the winners of the Merky Prize, as well as thought-provoking memoirs and heart-pounding thrillers, this year promises to be packed with literary treasures. Whatever your go-to genre, there’s something for everyone—so here are the 16 must-read books of 2025.
Top 16 Must-Read Books of 2025
1. The Three Lives of Cate Kay
Written by Kate Fagan
If The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo captured attention, this novel will do the same. Cate Kay, a celebrated author with a movie franchise and theme park in development, has managed to keep her true identity a secret. In Fagan’s debut, the complex story of the elusive writer unravels, revealing the motivations behind her choice to remain anonymous.
2. So Thrilled For You
Written by Holly Bourne
This gripping novel by Holly Bourne follows the perspectives of four best friends during a sweltering baby shower that ends in a fire (not a spoiler, as the novel opens with the fire). Throughout the chapters, the women explore their complex feelings toward motherhood—whether they desire children, are unsure, or have no interest—and how these emotions impact their friendships, relationships, and self-perception.
3. How To Sleep At Night
Written by Elizabeth Harris
From New York Times reporter Elizabeth Harris comes a novel that feels all too relevant in today’s political climate. The story focuses on two couples, Ethan and Gabe, who appear to lead a stable life until Ethan decides to run for Congress as a Republican, while Gabe staunchly opposes him on the other side of the political spectrum. Then there’s Ethan’s sister, Kate, who has grown disillusioned with her political reporting career and finds solace in her girlfriend, Nicole, who is now married. But soon, everything begins to unravel, sending their lives into a chaotic spiral.
4. Disappoint Me
Written by Nicola Dinan
The author of Bellies returns with a new, sharply insightful, and emotionally charged novel. Meet Max, a woman who has just entered her 30s convinced that everything is going smoothly. But is it? Though she’s a published poet, Max spends most of her days working as a legal counsel for a tech company. After a fall at a New Year’s Eve party, she decides to dive back into the world of dating apps, where she meets Vincent. But as their connection deepens, Max faces tough questions: Can she trust him? How will she navigate his conservative friends and family? And will Vincent’s unresolved teenage past threaten everything they’ve built together?
5. The Lamb
Written by Lucy Rose
2025 is shaping up to be the year of… cannibals, at least in Lucy Rose’s debut novel. The story follows Margot, a young girl living with her mother in a remote cottage deep in the woods, where they maintain a less-than-conventional diet. Their world is unusual but comfortable—until Eden, a stranger, enters their lives and disrupts everything. As the dynamics of their home shift, Margot is forced to confront her desires, her changing family, and the uncertain future that lies ahead.
6. Sweat
Written by Emma Healey
If you’re spending January dodging diet culture and toxic fitness ideals, this book is a must-read. Cassie, a personal trainer, has finally reclaimed her life after leaving her fitness-obsessed ex, Liam. But when Liam reappears in her gym two years later, transformed into a very different man, Cassie realizes that the power dynamic has shifted—and she now holds the power. The question is, will she use it?
7. Homesick
Written by Silvia Saunders
This heartwarming and relatable novel will resonate deeply with anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed or out of place in a big city like London. When Mara unexpectedly comes into some family money, she manages to buy a small flat of her own. Yet, it never quite feels like home, especially with her nosy, noisy neighbors. Just as she begins to settle in, her boyfriend moves back home. Will she ever find comfort in herself and in the space she’s trying to make her own?
8. Bibliophobia: A Memoir
Written by Sarah Chihaya
This memoir is a must-read for anyone who’s ever felt that a book was written just for them. Chiyaya takes readers through her journey with depression, exploring the books that had the most profound impact on her—affectionately called “life ruiners.” From reflections on Anne of Green Gables to The Last Samurai, she weaves her life story, touching on themes like cultural identity, relationships, success, academia, and, above all, our complex and intimate connections with the books that shape us.
9. Fundamentally
Written by Nussaibah Younis
In Fundamentally, Nadia finds herself at a crossroads after being disowned by her mother and dumped by her partner. She takes a job at the UN in Iraq, working to rehabilitate women who were involved with ISIS. There, she forms a deep connection with Sara, a woman who joined ISIS as a teenager. Their bond grows stronger, but when Sara reveals a secret, Nadia is faced with an agonizing decision that will test her beliefs and her future.
10. Dream Count
Written by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
From the author of We Should All Be Feminists comes a new novel that delves into the intertwined lives and loves of four women. Chiamaka, a Nigerian travel writer living in America, reflects on past relationships while navigating loneliness during the pandemic. Her best friend, Zikora, a lawyer, faces betrayal and must seek solace from the last person she ever expected. Meanwhile, Chiamaka’s cousin, Omelogor, a financial powerhouse in Nigeria, grapples with her own identity. Lastly, there’s Kadiatou, Chiamaka’s housekeeper, who is raising her daughter in America, only to face a looming threat that could undo all her hard work.
11. Madame Matisse
Written by Sophie Haydock
Based on a true story, this historical fiction novel takes place on the glamorous French Riviera in the 1930s, weaving together the lives of three pivotal women in Henri Matisse’s world. Amelie, his wife, has sacrificed everything to support her husband’s career over the past 40 years, while their daughter, Marguerite, struggles to navigate the tension between her parents. Meanwhile, Lydia, a Russian émigrée fleeing her homeland, finds work with the Matisse family, setting the stage for a dramatic collision that will change their lives forever.
12. Deep Cuts
Written by Holly Brickley
Joe and Percy share a deep love for music, but their bond is tested when Joe plays one of his songs for Percy in college. Despite her initial jealousy, Percy sets aside her feelings and commits to helping Joe turn his talent into a career. As Joe begins to rise to fame, the two face the challenge of growing together while navigating the pressures of his newfound success. Will their love endure, or will the weight of ambition and fame drive them apart?
13. Raw Content
Written by Naomi Booth
Grace is meticulous in her legal career, but her personal life tells a different story. Haunted by her father’s work in the police force, she often acts impulsively, which leads to unexpected consequences. When she discovers she’s accidentally pregnant, the vulnerability of her unborn child triggers repressed memories, forcing Grace to confront her past and the fears she’s long kept buried. As she grapples with her emotions, Grace must find a way to navigate the challenges ahead and protect both her future and her child.
14. A Beautiful Lack of Consequence
Written by Monika Radojevic
Monika Radojevic, winner of the #Merky Books New Writers’ Prize, makes her debut with a captivating collection of 30 short stories that delve into the complexities of modern womanhood. Each tale powerfully reflects on the complexities, challenges, and triumphs women face today. Expect to be entertained, provoked into deep thought, and inspired by the strength and resilience that define women in all walks of life.
15. Room on the Sea
Written by André Aciman
The author of Call Me By Your Name returns with another poignant romance, this time set in New York. This Time Tomorrow follows Paul and Catherine, who embark on an unexpected flirtation while waiting to be selected for jury duty. Amid the sterile surroundings, their connection deepens, and they begin to escape their everyday lives, living out a romantic fantasy. But by the end of the week, they must face the question: will they act on this fleeting passion or leave it behind as a beautiful but temporary dream?
16. Idle Grounds
Written by Krystelle Bamford
On a summer’s day in 1989 in New England, the adults are preoccupied, unaware that one of the youngest children has gone missing. However, the cousins are aware, and they sense something sinister lurking at the edge of the forest surrounding the house. Determined to uncover the truth, they set out to navigate their grandmother’s sprawling estate, uncovering long-buried family secrets along the way, all in an effort to find their missing cousin, Abi, and bring her home.
A Year of Literary Exploration in 2025
As we move into 2025, it’s clear that the literary world is about to deliver an incredible range of stories that will captivate and inspire. Whether you’re drawn to powerful memoirs, intense thrillers, or heartfelt fiction, the books on this list promise to offer something for every reader. With fresh voices and celebrated authors returning with new works, there’s no shortage of compelling narratives to immerse yourself in. As you dive into these 16 must-read titles, you’re in for a year filled with emotional journeys, unforgettable characters, and stories that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.
