The 39 Most Anticipated Books of 2025

As I delve into this captivating list of forthcoming literary works, I find myself utterly enthralled by the rich tapestry of stories and perspectives that await us in the coming months. Each book, like a unique snowflake, carries its own essence, reflecting the author’s life experiences and insights.

If your New Year’s promise involves reading more, here’s an engaging collection that may help keep you on track towards fulfilling it.

Among the 39 highly anticipated books of 2025 are Susan Choi’s long-awaited sequel to her acclaimed novel, “Trust Exercise”; an essay collection from environmental justice advocate Catherine Coleman Flowers; and the new addition to Rebecca Yarros’ bestselling “Empyrean” series, which she personally considers her favorite in the romantic fantasy trilogy.

2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for literature enthusiasts like myself! Among the anticipated releases are memoirs from Kristen Kish of Top Chef, activist and astronaut Amanda Nguyen, philanthropist Melinda French Gates, Arundhati Roy, whose work has always captivated me, and Tina Knowles, mother of the iconic Beyoncé. Other noteworthy titles include a romantic tale by Taylor Jenkins Reid set in space-age times, Amanda Hess’s practical guide for parenting in our digital world, and Torrey Peters’ highly anticipated sequel to her bestselling debut, Detransition, Baby.

The Three Lives of Cate Kay, Kate Fagan (Jan. 7)

Kate Fagan’s first novel, a hit among readers, is structured as an unpublished memoir penned by a secretive LGBTQ+ author who has spent her life evading her complex past. When Cate Kay’s popular book series gets picked up for the big screen, she finds it impossible to conceal her true identity any longer. With assistance from former companions and romantic partners, she shares an unpolished account of her journey to success and the price she paid along the way.

How to Sleep at Night, Elizabeth Harris (Jan. 7)

In Elizabeth Harris’ first book, Ethan and Gabe, a caring couple from New Jersey, start to grow apart due to their escalating political disagreements. When Ethan decides to contest for Congress as a Republican, his progressive partner must pick between his deeply-held leftist beliefs and his career-focused spouse. Meanwhile, in another part of the city, Nicole, who was once an artist but now a suburban mother, grapples with a similar issue in her marriage. However, it’s only when Ethan’s journalist sister reappears in Nicole’s life that she starts questioning her wants in this household story about love, matrimony, and personal aspirations.

Onyx Storm, Rebecca Yarros (Jan. 21)

In the third installment of Rebecca Yarros’ widely acclaimed Empyrean series, titled Onyx Storm, we follow Violet Sorrengail, a diminutive yet formidable dragon rider, as she readies herself for conflict against the Venin, a group of humans who have forsaken their souls to seize power from the earth. Having spent over a year at Basgiath War College, Violet discovers that backing for the Venin, or Dark Wielders, is not limited only to those outside the competitive military institution, but also extends to some within its very ranks. With trust becoming a scarce commodity, Violet sets off on an enchanting odyssey in search of allies who can aid her in honing her burgeoning abilities, which could potentially decide the outcome of this struggle for dominance.

We Do Not Part, Han Kang (Jan. 21)

The recently translated book “We Do Not Part” by Nobel laureate Han Kang offers an in-depth look at a distressing period in modern Korean history. A hospitalized Inseon requests her friend Kyungha to perform a seemingly easy task: care for her cherished pet bird in their Jeju Island home. However, upon arrival, Kyungha is confronted with the profound repercussions of the Jeju Uprising on both her nation and its populace. Kang’s work serves as a poignant examination of friendship during historical turmoil.

Black in Blues: How a Color Tells the Story of My People, Imani Perry (Jan. 28)

The book “Blues and Blackness” delves intimately into the significance of the color blue in relation to Black heritage and culture. National Book Award winner Imani Perry explores the history of this color, starting from the 16th century when indigo dye was produced, a commodity frequently exchanged for enslaved individuals. Throughout the book, she ponders how various shades of blue (such as cobalt and periwinkle) have been deeply connected with Black identity over time.

Holy Ground: On Activism, Environmental Justice, and Finding Hope, Catherine Coleman Flowers (Jan. 28)

Holy Ground, the subsequent work by Catherine Coleman Flowers following her 2020 memoir Waste, is a compilation of essays that delve into the intimate and public dimensions of her role as an environmental activist. As the founder of the Center for Rural Enterprise and Environmental Justice, who was recognized as one of TIME’s Most Influential People in 2023, she addresses topics like racism, reproductive rights, and rural poverty through the perspective of environmental inequality. Over ten essays, she provides valuable insights on strategies to tackle these problems at both local and global levels.

Isola, Allegra Goodman (Feb. 4)

In the 16th century, a French noblewoman and her secret lover find themselves marooned on a tiny island, abandoned by her unpredictable protector. With scant resources to face the harsh winter, they must rely on their wits and each other to endure. This gripping tale of survival, love, spirituality, and personal growth is based on the true story of Marguerite de La Rocque, and Allegra Goodman’s newest novel offers a powerful feminist twist on the classic castaway narrative.

Three Days in June, Anne Tyler (Feb. 11)

At the beginning of Anne Tyler’s 25th Pulitzer-winning novel, “Three Days in June”, Gail Baines seems to be experiencing a series of unfortunate events. The day prior to her daughter’s wedding, she loses her job, is excluded from the groom’s family gatherings, and finds herself sharing a room with her former spouse and a melancholic cat. However, this is only the beginning of her troubles: it turns out that Gail’s daughter has uncovered a startling truth about the man she intends to marry, casting doubt on their impending nuptials. In this delightful tale of matrimony, this disclosure sends Gail back to the unsettled matters connected with her divorce, compelling her to confront the consequences for the first time.

Crush, Ada Calhoun (Feb. 25)

Drawing inspiration from Nora Ephron’s “Heartburn”, writer Ada Calhoun’s first novel, “Crush”, explores a marriage on the brink of dissolution. When her husband proposes they explore open relationships, a contentedly married middle-aged wife and mother finds herself entangled in an emotional affair with a college friend. As passions ignite, she is compelled to question what truly matters in a romantic relationship, examining her desires and needs.

Death Takes Me, Cristina Rivera Garza (Feb. 25)

In a surprising turn of events, the novel “Death Takes Me” challenges the conventional serial killer narrative. Published in 2007 by Cristina Rivera Garza and recently translated from Spanish by Robin Myers and Sarah Booker, the story unfolds when a literature professor named Cristina stumbles upon a castrated man’s body during her jog. Upon examining crime scene photographs, she recognizes a message written in coral-colored nail polish beside the corpse – verses from the late Argentine poet Alejandra Pizarnik, whom Cristina has extensively studied. As Pizarnik’s work appears at subsequent crime scenes, Cristina is recruited to help capture the elusive murderer before he manages to catch her first.

One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This, Omar El Akkad (Feb. 25)

In simple terms, the award-winning author Omar El Akkad’s first nonfiction work, titled “One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This,“, delves into the true essence of being an American today. With over two decades of experience as a journalist, reporting on conflicts such as the War on Terror, Black Lives Matter protests, and the rising casualties in Gaza, the Egyptian-Canadian writer residing in the U.S. expresses his disappointment at the apparent lack of empathy and compassion he has witnessed in his adopted nation. Through his new book, he seeks to understand how the ideal of the American dream has transformed into a distressing reality.

The Talent, Daniel D’Addario (Feb. 25)

Daniel D’Addario, previously a TV critic for TIME and now chief correspondent at Variety, demonstrates that mere nominations aren’t always prestigious, with his first novel, Variety. Titled The Talent, this story follows a cluster of actresses navigating the awards season, which is particularly tense. The quintet – the established matriarch, the fresh-faced newcomer, the accomplished actress, the dark horse contender, and the ex-child star – must address their rivalries, fears, and self-doubts if they aspire to win a coveted Oscar on the grandest night in Hollywood.

The Dream Hotel, Laila Lalami (March 4)

Laila Lalami’s fifth book, titled “The Dream Hotel“, is set in a close-future world where even one’s dreams are monitored. Upon returning to Los Angeles from an overseas conference, museum archivist Sara is apprehended for a crime predicted by her dreams to occur against her husband in the future. Held captive at a detention center with other women who are imprisoned for crimes they haven’t yet committed, Sara must demonstrate that her dreams are not actual events if she hopes to regain her freedom in this suspenseful tale of technology-driven paranoia.

Saving Five: A Memoir of Hope, Amanda Nguyen (March 4)

Amanda Nguyen, named among TIME’s 2022 Women of Distinction, shares her life journey with assistance from her younger counterparts. This activist and astronaut’s memoir, titled “Saving Five“, weaves in magical segments that reflect her perspective at the ages of five, fifteen, twenty-two, and thirty. These interludes help her comprehend her challenging childhood, campus sexual assault incident, and ensuing struggle for justice. This relentless pursuit ultimately resulted in the enactment of the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Rights Act in 2016.

All the Other Mothers Hate Me, Sarah Harman (March 11)

The first novel by Sarah Harman, a former broadcaster, titled “All the Other Mothers Hate Me“, delves into the enigma surrounding the disappearance of a boy who is an heir to a frozen food empire. In an unfortunate incident, 10-year-old Alfie Risby vanishes during a school trip, leading everyone to suspect. The wealthy parents zero in on Florence Grimes’ son, Dylan, who was tormented by Alfie at school. To exonerate her child, Florence finds herself in an unusual predicament: she needs to mend fences with the other mothers from the school. An added incentive to read this book is that it is being developed for television by Christopher Storer, the creator of “The Bear“.

The Antidote, Karen Russell (March 11)

In a turn of events, Karen Russell, renowned for her hit book Swamplandia!, brings us her highly anticipated second novel, titled The Antidote. This grand historical tale unfolds during the tumultuous Dust Bowl period. Following a devastating dust storm that strikes a tiny Nebraska town in 1939, five residents – a resilient Polish wheat farmer, his adopted niece, an entrancing New Deal photographer under a magical spell, an eloquent scarecrow brimming with chatter, and a ‘Prairie Witch,’ who serves as a repository for the settlers’ forgotten memories – face the arduous task of rebuilding. As they delve deeper into their efforts, the townsfolk discover that to establish a more resilient future, they must first confront the dark deeds of their turbulent past.

Goddess Complex, Sanjena Sathian (March 11)

The dilemma of whether to have a child or not lies at the heart of Sanjena Sathian’s satirical second novel, “Goddess Complex”. Having separated from her husband, a struggling actor, over this disagreement, Sanjana Satyananda is now seeking to advance in life and complete the anthropology dissertation she had set aside years ago. However, before she can move forward, she needs to finalize their divorce. When her ex-husband mysteriously disappears, Sanjana embarks on a surreal quest to find him, which provides her with a glimpse into what life might be like if she were to become a parent.

Stag Dance: A Novel & Stories, Torrey Peters (March 11)

Titled “Stag Dance,” Torrey Peters’ subsequent work following her 2021 breakthrough debut, “Detransition, Baby,” is composed of one novel and three interwoven stories that provide an intriguing exploration of the themes of gender rediscovery and hesitation. The central narrative revolves around a band of lumberjacks who organize a dance party, with some workers agreeing to participate as women, which ignites an unexpected competition among them. The short stories delve into a clandestine romance between a junior student and his female roommate at a Quaker boarding school, a catastrophic hormonal event triggered by a vengeful ex-girlfriend, and a turbulent emotional journey experienced by a young individual during a wild night of partying in Las Vegas.

Tilt, Emma Pattee (March 25)

Emma Pattee’s first book, titled Tilt, is an exhilarating tale of survival during a natural disaster that unfolds over a single day. A pregnant woman, stranded at an IKEA in Portland, Oregon following a devastating earthquake, embarks on a perilous journey to return home, which lies across the disaster-stricken area. During her trek, she encounters a chaotic supermarket riot, forms bonds with another mother, and ponders over her troubled marriage, unfulfilling profession, and fears about impending motherhood.

Audition, Katie Kitamura (April 8)

Katie Kitamura’s latest novel, “Audition,” commences with a meal in Manhattan between an esteemed stage actor and a distressed individual who appears to be her son. The intricate plot of this unsettling book, which interweaves the conflicting stories of these characters, will have readers pondering what is genuine and what is an act.

Authority, Andrea Long Chu (April 8)

Andrea Long Chu’s essay collection, titled “Authority,” delves into the question of who truly qualifies as an expert in today’s world where everyone claims to have all the answers. Over twenty pieces, many of which were initially published between 2018 and 2023, this Pulitzer Prize-winning critic frequently focuses on artistic realms. She discusses a range of topics such as the enduring significance of “The Phantom of the Opera” in musical history, the inspirations behind Hanya Yanagihara’s novel “A Little Life,” and whether a video game adaptation could ever attain the status of prestige TV.

The Next Day: Transitions, Change, and Moving Forward, Melinda French Gates (April 15)

In simple terms, Melinda French Gates’ new book titled “The Next Day” invites readers to accept life’s transformations, as someone who has experienced a great deal of change herself. Over the past four years, Melinda has faced both personal and professional upheavals that have led her to reevaluate her path. In an interview with TIME in June, she expressed, “At 60, I realize I need to be surrounded by diverse individuals and continue traveling so I can keep learning because the world is evolving.” In this upcoming memoir, Melinda promises to offer a unique glimpse into some of the most significant turning points in her life, such as parenthood, the loss of a close friend, and her recent separation from the charitable foundation she co-founded with her ex-husband Bill Gates.

Accidentally on Purpose, Kristen Kish (April 22)

Through her first autobiography titled “Accidentally on Purpose“, Kristen Kish – winner of “Top Chef” season 10 and now its host – reminisces about her journey to culinary stardom. In this book, she discusses her initial years in the kitchen, offers a glimpse into her reality TV show experiences behind the scenes, and delves into her Midwest upbringing as a Korean adoptee. Furthermore, Kish talks about coming out as an adult and the unexpected hurdles and fortunate incidents that ultimately led her to discover her true vocation.

Matriarch: A Memoir, Tina Knowles (April 22)

In her first memoir, Tina Knowles, mother of Beyoncé and Solange, provides an opportunity to share her life story. The book delves into her journey of nurturing two renowned daughters, yet it also highlights her modest upbringing as the youngest of seven siblings in 1950s Galveston, Texas. Known for her skills in sewing and hairstyling, Knowles (originally Celestine Ann Beyoncé) aspired to make a difference through her artistic talents. In this book, she recounts the creative ventures, passionate relationships, and parenting insights that shaped her into one of the world’s most recognized mothers.

Zeal, Morgan Jerkins (April 22)

Four years following the publication of her first fiction work, “Caul Baby”, renowned author Morgan Jerkins introduces her second novel, titled “Zeal”. This captivating romance extends over a period exceeding 150 years. In the vibrant year of 2019, Harlem witnesses Oliver and Ardelia’s engagement celebration. As the night concludes, Oliver presents his fiancée with an ancient love letter, penned in 1865 by a former Union Army soldier. The soldier, having been discharged as a free man, returned to Mississippi in search of the woman he adored. This centuries-old correspondence will significantly reshape the couple’s perception of their love narrative.

Strangers in the Land: Exclusion, Belonging, and the Epic Story of the Chinese in America, Michael Luo (April 29)

As a movie lover with an affinity for untold histories, I’m eager to share my personal exploration into the past through Michael Luo’s captivating debut work, “Strangers in the Land.” Spanning close to 600 pages, this book takes us on a journey that begins with the cordial welcome extended to Chinese immigrants in mid-19th century America and ends in a tragic turn of events marked by the passage of exclusionary laws in 1889. The title is inspired by Supreme Court Justice Stephen Johnson Field’s landmark opinion, which for the first time barred a specific racial group from immigrating to the U.S.

The Manor of Dreams, Christina Li (May 6)

Christina Li, well-known for her young adult books, has ventured into adult literature with her novel titled “The Manor of Dreams“. This contemporary gothic story revolves around a power struggle over the decaying mansion of a groundbreaking 1980s celebrity, Vivian Yin. After her demise, Vivian’s daughters find themselves at odds with an unknown relative over the ownership of their secluded mother’s vast property. Matters escalate when they decide to share living quarters in the deteriorating house. Once within its walls, they uncover hidden horrors that the manor seems determined to conceal.

Second Life: Having a Child in the Digital Age, Amanda Hess (May 6)

In her debut memoir, titled “Second Life,” New York Times columnist Amanda Hess delves into the unique challenges and experiences of raising a child in our technology-dominated society. Drawing on her personal journey as a first-time mother, she examines both the benefits and pitfalls of having instant access to countless parenting resources. Additionally, she provides an in-depth examination of the strange web of prenatal genetic tests, viral gender reveal videos, and influential figures advocating for unassisted childbirth, all of which are helping mold a new cohort of constantly connected caregivers.

The Emperor of Gladness, Ocean Vuong (May 13)

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but share my excitement about Ocean Vuong’s upcoming novel, “The Emperor of Gladness.” This heartwarming tale serves as a profound hymn to the power of second chances. In it, Hai, a troubled teenager, finds solace and purpose after being saved from the brink by Grazina, an elderly widow grappling with early-stage dementia. What ensues is an extraordinary friendship born of the most unlikely circumstances, one that transforms Hai’s life in ways he could scarcely have imagined.

Run for the Hills, Kevin Wilson (May 13)

As a devoted cinephile, I’m eagerly anticipating the upcoming cinematic journey penned by none other than Kevin Wilson, renowned author of “Nothing to See Here.” This new tale weaves around an extraordinary odyssey embarked upon by an uncommon family, centered on a road trip that unfolds twenty years after Madeline “Mad” Hill’s father mysteriously vanished without a trace.

Atmosphere: A Love Story, Taylor Jenkins Reid (June 3)

In her latest book, Taylor Jenkins Reid – renowned author of “Daisy Jones and the Six” and “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” – embarks on an astral journey. Set in the 1980s, “Atmosphere” focuses on Joan Goodwin, a physics professor striving to become one of NASA’s Space Shuttle Program’s early female recruits. During her training, Joan develops feelings for another candidate. When a harrowing event during mission STS-LR9 jeopardizes the lives of her fellow crew members, including her love, Joan must devise a plan to ensure their safe return.

The Catch, Yrsa Daley-Ward (June 3)

In Yrsa Daley-Ward’s first novel, titled “The Catch“, twin sisters Clara and Dempsey have been largely separated since their mother mysteriously disappeared in the River Thames. Years later, when Clara, a well-known author, encounters a woman in London who bears an uncanny resemblance to their mother on the day she vanished, she asks her secluded sibling to aid in uncovering the truth about this enigmatic figure. To accomplish this, they must confront and come to terms with their shared history. The book is anticipated to delve into the compelling theme of the difficult choices women often make for their families.

The Dry Season: A Memoir of Pleasure in a Year Without Sex, Melissa Febos (June 3)

Back in 2016, I, a voracious reader like myself, made a personal commitment similar to Melissa Febos – I abstained from intimate relationships for a year. Now, with her latest memoir, The Dry Season, she’s opening up about the insights she gleaned from this journey. Blending her unique storytelling with insightful cultural analysis, the author of the captivating Girlhood delves into how this period of celibacy transformed my perspective, empowering me to prioritize myself, my endeavors, and the meaningful friendships that had been neglected.

Flashlight, Susan Choi (June 3)

Susan Choi’s latest novel, titled “Flashlight“, is based on a 2020 short story of the same name and delves into the mystery of a father’s disappearance spanning through time, location, and recollection. When Louisa was ten years old, she embarked on a walk with her dad on the beach, but later found herself alone, having woken up on the shore after an unknown incident, as her father, who couldn’t swim, had vanished. For years, Louisa has been reliving that day in her mind, seeking any hints to locate her lost dad. However, she now starts questioning: Could it be that he is out there but chooses not to be found?

Great Black Hope, Rob Franklin (June 10)

Rob Franklin’s first novel, titled “Great Black Hope“, follows the life journey of a character named Smith, a Stanford graduate who identifies as queer and is African-American. After the tragic loss of his friend, Smith finds himself arrested for cocaine possession in the Hamptons and compelled to undergo mandatory treatment. Leveraging his elite education, he navigates the system with caution, aware that his racial background will limit his opportunities. To advance, Smith must maintain a clean record—a challenge that proves harder than it seems.

I Want to Burn This Place Down, Maris Kreizman (July 1)

In her first essay compilation titled “I Want to Burn This Place Down“, cultural commentator Maris Kreizman pens her thoughts on losing trust in American establishments and discovering strength in revolutionary fury. Throughout this collection of politically-driven essays, she opens up about her journey from the label of a “good Democrat”, shifting further left in her 40s, and her transformation from an upholder of rules into someone who now advocates for rule-breaking to create a more fair world.

Katabasis, R.F. Kuang (August 26)

In a return to her fantasy genre, the acclaimed author R.F. Kuang, known for the Poppy War trilogy, Babel, and Yellowface, unveils her latest novel titled Katabasis. Following the demise of her mentor, whose death may or may not be on Alice Law’s conscience, the magician embarks on a journey to the underworld in an attempt to redeem his soul. The complicating factor is that Peter Murdoch, Alice’s rival from magic school, is also bound for the underworld with plans to save her mentor before Alice can. As they both navigate this perilous journey, they come to understand that cooperation is crucial if they hope to return home alive.

Mother Mary Comes to Me, Arundhati Roy (September)

In her debut memoir, renowned Indian author and activist Arundhati Roy recounts her journey from childhood to the present, delving deeply into her intricate bond with her deceased mother. Inspired by her mother’s passing in 2022, Roy penned “Mother Mary Comes to Me.” However, she mentioned in the book’s unveiling that she has been writing this memoir throughout her life, referring to her mom as her most fascinating muse.

A Silent Treatment, Jeannie Vanasco (September)

Jeannie Vanasco’s third memoir, titled “A Silent Treatment“, delves into the emotional toll of not speaking or communicating. This is a subject that resonates deeply with the author as her own mother, during the pandemic, resorted to using silence as a means of punishment for perceived wrongdoings. At one point, she went six months without uttering a word to her daughter. Drawing from her own harrowing experience, Vanasco explores the damaging consequences of keeping feelings and thoughts unshared.

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2024-12-17 17:08