The New York Times Book Review recently unveiled their top book selections of 2025 so far, showcasing a diverse array of literary works across various genres. In a recent episode of the ‘Book Review’ podcast, editors Gilbert Cruz and Joumana Khatib discussed and shared some of their favourite reads that have made a significant impact in the literary world this year. The selection includes gripping thrillers, poignant memoirs, and captivating horror novels, making them perfect choices for summer reading and beyond.
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One standout book on the list is ‘King of Ashes’ by S. A. Cosby, a Southern crime novel that follows a trio of siblings brought together under unexpected circumstances. The editors emphasized the suspenseful nature of the book, making it a must-read for fans of crime and suspense genres. Another compelling read highlighted by the editors is ‘The Director’ by Daniel Kehlmann, a novel inspired by the life of film director G.W. Pabst. The book intricately weaves together themes of escape, propaganda, and the haunting presence of dread, creating a gripping narrative for readers.
‘A Marriage at Sea’ by Sophie Elmhurst is a non-fiction narrative detailing the captivating story of a couple stranded at sea after a harrowing incident involving a whale. The editors praised the book for its thrilling and page-turning quality, making it a standout choice for readers seeking an intense and riveting read. In ‘Careless People’ by Sarah Wynn Williams, readers are taken on a personal journey through the author’s experience working at a tech giant, offering a unique and insightful perspective on corporate life.
For fans of historical fiction, ‘Isola’ by Allegra Goodman explores the gripping tale of an orphaned girl forced to navigate a perilous French expedition. The novel delves into themes of survival and resilience, offering readers a captivating and immersive reading experience. ‘The Catch’ by Yrsa Daley-Ward is a dark and delicious thriller that follows the lives of two sisters whose worlds are turned upside down by a shocking revelation, promising readers a suspenseful and enthralling story.
In ‘Daughters of the Bamboo Grove’ by Barbara Demick, the author sheds light on China’s one-child policy through the compelling story of twin sisters separated by the country’s restrictive guidelines. The book offers a thought-provoking exploration of family, identity, and societal norms, making it a profound and impactful read. ‘Sisters’ by Jonas Hassen Khemiri is an ambitious novel that spans decades in the lives of the Mikkola sisters, featuring a captivating twist that adds depth and complexity to the narrative.
Readers seeking spine-tingling horror novels will be drawn to ‘The Buffalo Hunter Hunter’ by Stephen Graham Jones, a chilling tale of a vampire haunting a Native American reservation. The editors highlighted the multi-layered narrative and gripping suspense of the book, making it a compelling choice for fans of the horror genre. For biography enthusiasts, ‘Wild Thing: A Life of Paul Gaugin’ by Sue Prideaux offers a detailed exploration of the controversial artist’s life, providing a fascinating insight into his creative process and impact on the art world.
‘Things in Nature Merely Grow’ by Yiyun Li is a poignant work of non-fiction that delves into the author’s personal journey of grief and healing following the loss of her sons. The book offers a reflective and resonant exploration of loss, love, and resilience, leaving a lasting impact on readers. ‘These Summer Storms’ by Sarah MacLean is a Succession-esque novel that follows a family’s complex dynamics as they vie for their inheritance, promising readers a gripping and immersive reading experience.