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“The Lost City” by Lisa Gardner – Mystery/Thriller
Lisa Gardner’s *The Lost City* is the kind of thriller that will glue your hands to the book until the very last page. The story follows a detective unraveling a chilling missing person case that leads to a forgotten, cursed city. Every twist feels like a punch to the gut, and Gardner’s knack for suspense makes this impossible to predict. Fans of *Gone Girl* or *The Girl on the Train* will love the eerie atmosphere and psychological depth. Plus, the detective’s personal struggles add a layer of raw emotion that’s rare in crime novels. If you enjoy stories where no one is truly safe, this is your 2025 must-read.
“The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig – Fiction
Ever wondered “What if?” about your life choices? *The Midnight Library* explores exactly that in the most beautiful, heartbreaking way. Nora Seed gets a chance to try out all the lives she could’ve lived, from rock star to Arctic researcher. Matt Haig’s writing is warm and wise, making you question regrets while still leaving you hopeful. It’s a book that stays with you, whispering in your ear long after you’ve finished. Perfect for anyone who’s ever felt stuck or wondered about the road not taken.
“Project Hail Mary” by Andy Weir – Science Fiction
If you loved *The Martian*, you’ll devour *Project Hail Mary*. Andy Weir delivers another thrilling space adventure, this time with a scientist who wakes up clueless on a doomed spaceship. The mix of hard science and humor makes even complex astrophysics feel fun and accessible. Watching the protagonist piece together his mission—while fighting to save humanity—is both hilarious and nerve-wracking. Sci-fi fans, this is your next obsession.
“The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune – Fantasy
This book is like a warm hug in literary form. Linus, a rule-following bureaucrat, is sent to inspect an orphanage for magical children—and his life is never the same. The kids are quirky and lovable, and the caretaker is as mysterious as he is charming. TJ Klune crafts a world where acceptance and found family shine brighter than any spell. It’s pure comfort reading with just enough magic to make it sparkle.
“Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus – Historical Fiction
Set in the 1960s, *Lessons in Chemistry* follows Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant scientist forced into the role of a TV cooking show host. But she doesn’t just teach recipes—she sneaks in chemistry lessons, shaking up gender norms with every episode. Bonnie Garmus blends humor and feminism in a way that feels fresh and bold. If you loved *Hidden Figures*, this one’s for you.
“The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” by V.E. Schwab – Fantasy/Paranormal
Addie LaRue sells her soul to live forever… but at a terrible cost: everyone she meets forgets her the moment she’s gone. Then, after 300 years, someone *remembers*. V.E. Schwab’s prose is as haunting as the story itself, weaving history, romance, and dark magic into a masterpiece. This book will make you ache, wonder, and maybe even look over your shoulder at shadows.
“Circe” by Madeline Miller – Mythological Fiction
Greek mythology gets a feminist makeover in *Circe*, where the infamous witch steps into the spotlight as a heroine. Exiled and underestimated, she discovers her power in ways that will give you chills. Madeline Miller’s writing is lush and poetic, making ancient myths feel urgent and alive. A must-read for anyone who loves strong female leads and timeless storytelling.
“Klara and the Sun” by Kazuo Ishiguro – Science Fiction/Philosophical
What does it mean to be human? That’s the question at the heart of *Klara and the Sun*, told through the eyes of an AI designed to be a child’s companion. Ishiguro’s quiet, profound style makes every moment feel heavy with meaning. It’s a subtle, heartbreaking look at love, sacrifice, and technology’s role in our lives.
“The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid – Historical Fiction/Romance
Old Hollywood glamour meets scandal in this unforgettable novel. Evelyn Hugo, a legendary actress, finally reveals the truth about her seven marriages—and the one great love of her life. Taylor Jenkins Reid writes with such glamour and grit that you’ll feel like you’re watching a classic film. A dazzling, emotional ride from start to finish.
“A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara – Contemporary Fiction
This book will wreck you—in the best way. Following four friends in New York, it zeroes in on Jude, whose traumatic past shapes his entire life. Yanagihara doesn’t shy away from pain, but the love between the characters makes it bearable. Not an easy read, but one that changes how you see friendship and resilience.
“Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens – Mystery/Drama
Part murder mystery, part love letter to nature, this novel is pure magic. Kya, the “Marsh Girl,” grows up isolated in the wild, only to be accused of a crime she may or may not have committed. The marsh itself feels like a character, lush and alive. A story of survival, loneliness, and the haunting beauty of the natural world.
“Normal People” by Sally Rooney – Contemporary Fiction
Connell and Marianne’s messy, real, and utterly captivating relationship will hook you from page one. Rooney’s razor-sharp dialogue and emotional honesty make their love story painfully relatable. It’s a book about how we hurt each other, heal, and grow—sometimes together, sometimes apart.
“The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern – Fantasy
Step into a circus that appears only at night, where two magicians duel in a game of enchantment and love. The imagery is so vivid, you’ll swear you can smell the caramel in the air. A dreamy, atmospheric tale for anyone who believes in magic.
“Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty – Mystery/Thriller
Suburbia has never been so juicy—or so dangerous. Three women, all hiding secrets, find their lives colliding in unexpected ways. Moriarty’s wit and knack for suspense make this impossible to put down. A perfect blend of drama, humor, and twisty mysteries.
2025 is bringing stories that will make you laugh, cry, and stay up way too late reading. Which one will you pick up first?
Christian Wiedeck, all the way from Germany, loves music festivals, especially in the USA. His articles bring the excitement of these events to readers worldwide.
For any feedback please reach out to [email protected]
