In the coming year, readers can anticipate a wealth of new literary treasures spanning various genres. From heart-warming romances and historical epics to thrilling adventures and profound explorations of identity, the bookshelves will be brimming with captivating stories. Notable authors such as Rebecca Yarros, Suzanne Collins, Taylor Jenkins Reid, and Emily Henry are set to release highly anticipated works. Additionally, emerging voices promise to bring fresh perspectives across thriller, romance, historical fiction, and more. Preordering these books not only secures an early read but also supports authors by boosting bestseller lists and award recognition.
A Glimpse into the Most Anticipated Books of 2025
January: In Homeseeking, Karissa Chen explores the concept of home through the lives of two lovers over six decades of Chinese history. Meanwhile, Charmaine Wilkerson's Good Dirt delves into a multigenerational saga triggered by a family heirloom. Kate Fagan’s The Three Lives of Cate Kay follows a woman who assumes multiple identities after a tragic event, while Imani Perry’s Black in Blues ties Black American experiences to the color black in an insightful narrative. Rebecca Yarros concludes her Empyrean Series with Onyx Storm, promising politics, dragons, and adventure.
February: Victoria Christopher Murray’s Harlem Rhapsody offers a glimpse into the Harlem Renaissance through Jessie Redmon Fauset’s pivotal role. Nancy Johnson’s People of Means intertwines two timelines of social upheaval, focusing on a mother and daughter’s pursuit of justice. Allegra Goodman’s Isola transports readers to a 16th-century island where love blossoms under challenging circumstances. Anne Tyler’s Three Days in June presents a poignant family drama centered around a wedding and its complications.
March: Colleen Oakley’s Jane and Dan at the End of the World turns a hostage situation into a thrilling exploration of marital strife. Laila Lalami’s The Dream Hotel examines the implications of surveillance through a detention center narrative. Karen Russell’s The Antidote weaves surreal tales of memory and climate crisis. Torrey Peters’ Stag Dance challenges gender norms in innovative short stories. Suzanne Collins returns with Sunrise on the Reaping, revisiting Panem before the events of The Hunger Games. Kristen Arnett’s Stop Me If You’ve Heard This One introduces Cherry, a professional clown navigating personal struggles.
April: Jasmine Guillory’s Flirting Lessons marks her first sapphic romance, guiding Avery through newfound attraction. Emily Henry’s Great Big Beautiful Life pits optimistic Alice against cynical Hayden in a competitive biography bid. Morgan Jerkins’ Zeal spans 150 years, exploring enduring love and its consequences. Honor Jones’ Sleep reflects on family cycles and maternal bonds. Ocean Vuong’s The Emperor of Gladness tells a lyrical tale of empathy and heartbreak between a young man and an elderly widow.
May: Kevin Wilson’s Run for the Hills explores family dynamics on a Tennessee farm, introducing unexpected half-siblings. Taylor Jenkins Reid’s Atmosphere sets a romantic drama amid the perilous 1980s space shuttle program. Susan Choi’s Flashlight unravels a mystery involving a Korean father’s disappearance and its impact on his family.
June: Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s The Bewitching brings supernatural elements to a story of three generations of women facing danger. R.F. Kuang’s Katabasis takes readers on a dark academic journey inspired by ancient Greek mythology, blending rivalry and redemption.
From each page of these forthcoming releases, readers can expect not only entertainment but also deeper reflections on life, love, and societal issues. These books serve as windows into diverse worlds, offering both escape and enlightenment. The anticipation builds as we prepare to dive into these compelling narratives, enriching our minds and hearts in the process.