Goodreads Choice Awards 2025 Winners Unveiled
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In the highly anticipated 2025 Goodreads Choice Awards, the book-loving community has spoken, and the winners have been revealed. This year, Goodreads experienced a record-breaking voting cycle, with an impressive 7.5 million votes cast across 15 genres for 300 nominated titles. The event, now in its 17th year, continues to be a testament to the passion and dedication of readers worldwide.
To determine the winners, Goodreads editors meticulously analysed site statistics to identify 20 nominees in each of the 15 categories. Collaborating with Audible editors, they also included audiobook data in the selection process. Following this, Goodreads members participated in two rounds of voting to determine the final victors.
Among the standout winners of the 2025 Goodreads Choice Awards are prominent authors such as John Green, SenLinYu, and Holly Jackson. Their exceptional work resonated with readers and earned them well-deserved recognition in their respective categories. The diverse range of genres represented in the awards underscores the depth and breadth of talent within the literary world.
In the category of Memoir, ‘The House of My Mother’ by Shari Franke emerged victorious, offering readers a poignant and revealing account of family dynamics and personal struggles. The book sheds light on the dark side of online exposure and the impact it can have on individuals and families.
‘How to Kill a Witch’ by Zoe Venditozzi and Claire Mitchell clinched the History & Biography category with its thought-provoking exploration of witch trials and the historical oppression of women. The meticulously researched investigation delves into the enduring significance of these events in shaping societal norms.
Readers were captivated by ‘Atmosphere’ by Taylor Jenkins Reid, the winning title in the Historical Fiction category. This compelling story of love and ambition set against the backdrop of the 1980s captures the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of dreams.
In the Romantasy/Audiobook genre, ‘Onyx Storm’ by Rebecca Yarros enchanted audiences with its blend of romance and fantasy elements. The novel continues to captivate readers with its imaginative world-building and engaging storytelling.
‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ by Suzanne Collins secured the top spot in the YA Fantasy & Science Fiction category, offering fans an immersive journey back to the world of Panem. The origin story of Haymitch Abernathy provides a fresh perspective on the beloved Hunger Games series.
Debut Novel winner, ‘Alchemised’ by SenLinYu, garnered praise for its dark fantasy romance and captivating storytelling. The novel’s unique blend of elements and compelling characters resonated with readers, establishing SenLinYu as a rising star in the literary world.
In the Fiction category, ‘My Friends’ by Fredrik Backman captivated readers with its exploration of art and adolescence. The redemptive power of creativity and the lasting impact of friendships are central themes in this moving and insightful novel.
Holly Jackson’s debut adult mystery-thriller, ‘Not Quite Dead Yet’, took the top spot in the Mystery & Thriller category, showcasing her talent for crafting suspenseful and compelling narratives. The novel’s gripping storyline and intriguing characters have earned it acclaim among readers and critics.
‘Great Big Beautiful Life’ by Emily Henry emerged as the winner in the Romance category, delighting fans with its blend of humour, tension, and heartwarming moments. Henry’s ability to create vibrant characters and captivating love stories continues to resonate with readers.
‘Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil’ by V.E. Schwab claimed victory in the Fantasy category, offering readers a rich and immersive sapphic vampire epic. Schwab’s masterful storytelling and imaginative world-building have solidified her reputation as a leading voice in the fantasy genre.
‘The Compound’ by Aisling Rawle triumphed in the Sci-Fi category with its captivating blend of reality TV tropes and dystopian themes. The novel’s compelling narrative and thought-provoking premise have drawn acclaim from readers and critics alike.
In the Horror category, ‘Witchcraft for Wayward Girls’ by Grady Hendrix captivated audiences with its chilling portrayal of witchcraft and teenage angst. The novel’s atmospheric setting and gripping storyline have cemented its status as a must-read for horror enthusiasts.
‘Fake Skating’ by Lynn Painter took the top spot in the YA Fiction category, offering readers a compelling tale of teenage love and friendship. Painter’s evocative storytelling and relatable characters have resonated with young adult readers around the world.
In the Nonfiction category, ‘Everything Is Tuberculosis’ by John Green stood out for its insightful exploration of public health issues and personal narratives. Green’s meticulous research and engaging writing style have shed light on important healthcare inequalities and societal challenges.
The diverse range of winners in the Goodreads Choice Awards 2025 reflects the richness and variety of voices in contemporary literature. From gripping thrillers to heartwarming romances, these award-winning books offer readers a glimpse into different worlds and perspectives.
As readers celebrate the achievements of their favourite authors and discover new literary gems, the Goodreads Choice Awards continue to be a platform for recognising excellence in publishing. The 2025 winners have set a high standard for storytelling and creativity, inspiring readers to explore new genres and narratives in the year ahead.
The 2025 Goodreads Choice Awards have once again showcased the power of books to entertain, educate, and inspire readers of all ages. With a record-breaking number of votes and a diverse array of winners, this year’s awards have reaffirmed the enduring popularity and significance of literature in shaping our cultural landscape.