Book Reviews

31 best new books to read in 2025

Whether you’ve joined the 2025 reading challenge on Goodreads or you’re gearing up for cosy evenings on the sofa, with the new year officially here, it’s time to find a page-turner (or two).

The start of the year offers ample chance to dive into a good book. From lighthearted reads to cure seasonal blues to novels that transport you to warmer climes, the criteria for a good book is simple: you won’t want to put it down.

Luckily, the releases over the past year leave you spoiled for choice. From history novels to Booker Prize-nominated thrillers and laugh-out-loud tomes, the mix is as eclectic as ever.

The latest reading pile sees plenty of acclaimed debuts from the likes of Kaliane Bradley, Oisín McKenna and Holly Gramazio, as well as eagerly anticipated titles from acclaimed authors such as Sally Rooney, Taffy Brodesser-Akner, Coco Mellors and Percival Everett. Plus, the new paperback releases are equally worth diving into (and not just to save on shelf or hand luggage space) – think Yellowface, Held and The Bee Sting.

The varied authorship is reflected in the diverse themes addressed, ranging from an Irish family in turmoil to love in the trenches of the First World War, grieving sisters, slavery in the American south, and astronauts on the International Space Station.

How we tested

Some of our favourite new book releases of the last year

Some of our favourite new book releases of the last year (Daisy Lester)

We’ve read dozens of new releases over the past year, including hardbacks and paperbacks. This list includes the best original page-turners with superb quality prose and the most captivating stories that stayed with us after we’d reached the end. From books for history lovers to romance novels, witty romantic comedies and acclaimed prize-winners, there’s something for every type of reader.

Why you can trust us

Daisy Lester is a senior eCommerce writer at The Independent. As well as writing about beauty and fashion, she specialises in reviewing books. She always has her finger on the pulse when it comes to new releases from both debut authors and acclaimed writers. Daisy knows what makes a gripping, moving or important story, whether it’s a romantic comedy or historical drama. She loves books of every genre, from satire to mystery and crime, so rest assured there will be a book for every taste in her round-ups.

The best new books to read in 2025 are:

  • Best overall – ‘The Husbands’ by Holly Gramazio, published by Chatto & Windus: £13.59, Amazon.co.uk
  • Best family sagaThe Bee Sting by Paul Murray, published by Hamish Hamilton: £8.49, Amazon.co.uk
  • Best literary retelling – ‘James’ by Percival Everett, published by Mantle: £16.34, Amazon.co.uk
  • Best romance novel You are Here by David Nicholls, published by Sceptre: £10, Amazon.co.uk
  • Best time-travel romance The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley, published by Sceptre: £13.99, Amazon.co.uk

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