People Picks the Top 15 Books of 2025
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In an era where books continue to captivate audiences, 2025 has been marked as an exceptional year for literature. The year has seen a wealth of new releases spanning various genres, from gripping thrillers to immersive historical fiction and romance. As we delve into the 15 best books selected by PEOPLE’s critics, readers are in for a treat with a diverse range of captivating stories to choose from.
‘Broken Country’ by Clare Leslie Hall kicks off the list with a complex and twisty thriller that unravels a love triangle and buried secrets leading to a jaw-dropping conclusion. The narrative takes readers on a thrilling journey that is sure to keep them hooked until the very end. Meanwhile, ‘The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny’ by Kiran Desai offers a sweeping saga of love and history as two individuals find each other against the backdrop of familial matchmaking.
R.F. Kuang’s ‘Katabasis’ delves into the darkly funny odyssey of two academic rivals venturing into the underworld to save their professor. This gripping tale challenges death itself, making it a standout in the realm of fantasy literature. On a different note, Sophie Elmhirst’s ‘A Marriage at Sea’ recounts a harrowing true story of survival and love after a couple is shipwrecked following a whale collision in 1973.
In ‘Atmosphere’ by Taylor Jenkins Reid, readers are transported into the tumultuous world of astronomer Joan Goodwin as she grapples with challenges both in space and at home. The novel weaves together romance and drama against the backdrop of NASA’s Space Shuttle program. Patrick Ryan’s ‘Buckeye’ offers a mesmerizing narrative that explores the repercussions of a forbidden kiss post-World War II, echoing through generations.
Megha Majumdar’s ‘A Guardian and a Thief’ presents a thought-provoking climate change novel that follows a family’s journey towards a better life in the U.S., marred by a crime of necessity. This poignant tale sheds light on the struggles faced by many in a rapidly changing world. Laila Lalami’s ‘The Dream Hotel’ paints a haunting picture of a near-future dystopia where dreams are under government surveillance, creating a chilling yet relatable narrative.
V.E. Schwab’s ‘Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil’ offers a gothic horror story intertwined with themes of love, hunger, and desire across time. This atmospheric tale is sure to captivate readers seeking a fresh take on vampirism. Charmaine Wilkerson’s ‘Good Dirt’ delves into a multigenerational story of resilience amidst tragedy, highlighting the enduring power of family bonds in the face of adversity.
Ocean Vuong’s ‘The Emperor of Gladness’ explores the unlikely friendship between a troubled teenager and an elderly widow, showcasing the beauty of intergenerational connections. Lastly, Adam Ross’s ‘Playworld’ takes readers on a profound journey through a lonely teenager’s search for identity in 1980s New York City, blending humour and depth in a poignant narrative.
As readers immerse themselves in the diverse worlds created by these talented authors, the 15 best books of 2025 promise a literary experience that is both enriching and unforgettable. With genres ranging from thriller to romance and historical fiction, there is something for every avid reader to treasure within these pages.