Prepare Your 2025 Reading List: Must-Read Authors
As 2025 approaches, many readers are starting to reflect on their New Year’s resolutions, including tackling that reading list they’ve been curating all year long. If you’re looking to enrich your bookshelf, diving into the works of bestselling authors who have captured the hearts of millions can be a fantastic place to start.
The literary landscape in 2024 has seen a remarkable rise in both the popularity of seasoned authors and exciting newcomers, largely due to the influence of platforms like BookTok, a thriving community on TikTok dedicated to book lovers. With 2025 on the horizon, here’s a comprehensive list of standout writers whose memorable works should definitely make it to your reading list.
Emily Henry: The Queen of Romance
Emily Henry has made waves in the romance genre with her relatable and heartwarming novels. Although her publishing journey began in 2016 with The Love That Split the World, it was her breakout hit Beach Read released in 2020 that catapulted her to success. Since then, she has followed up with a string of bestsellers, including People We Meet on Vacation, Book Lovers, and Happy Place. In 2024, Henry delighted fans with her latest release, Funny Story, and anticipation is building for her upcoming novel set to debut in 2025.
Sarah J. Maas: The Fantasy Titan
In the realm of fantasy literature, Sarah J. Maas continues to reign supreme. Her series A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR), which started with the titular volume, has grown into a global phenomenon beloved by readers worldwide. Expanding her literary empire, Maas writes the equally popular Crescent City series, with the latest installment House of Flame and Shadow landing on shelves in 2024. For devoted fans, her epic Throne of Glass series offers a rich eight-book journey, culminating in the thrilling conclusion of Kingdom of Ash.
Freida McFadden: The Master of Thrills
If you’re drawn to mystery and thriller genres, Freida McFadden is an author you won’t want to miss. Her immensely popular The Housemaid series, now spanning three books, saw increased traction in 2024 with the release of The Housemaid is Watching. Fans can also look forward to a movie adaptation of the series’ debut novel. In addition to her series, McFadden has penned several standalone thrillers, such as The Teacher and The Boyfriend, with her latest release, The Crash, set for January 2025.
Kristin Hannah: Emotional Storytelling
Kristin Hannah remains a favorite for readers who enjoy emotional historical fiction. Her engrossing narratives tend to captivate audiences, as evidenced by her 2024 release, The Women, which tells the story of a nurse during the Vietnam War and quickly became one of the year’s bestsellers. Other notable works include The Nightingale, set in World War II, and The Four Winds, which depicts the Dust Bowl era. Fans will find that 2025 presents an excellent opportunity to explore her extensive back catalog of powerful storytelling.
Christina Lauren: A Match Made in Romance
The writing duo of Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings, known collectively as Christina Lauren, has charmed readers with their delightful and swoon-worthy romance novels. Their rise to prominence began with the hit The Unhoneymooners, and in 2024, they brought readers The Paradise Problem, further showcasing their talent for crafting heartwarming love stories. For those looking for a feel-good read, their books are guaranteed to bring joy and warmth.
Ali Hazelwood: Romance Meets Science
Ali Hazelwood offers a refreshing perspective in the romance genre, drawing on her expertise as a neuroscience PhD and professor. Her debut novel, The Love Hypothesis, captivated readers with its engaging blend of romance and scientific themes. Following that success, she released other fan favorites like Love on the Brain and Love, Theoretically. 2024 saw Hazelwood introduce both Not in Love and Bride, while fans eagerly await her next title, Dead End, scheduled for release in 2025.
Lucy Foley: Gripping Mysteries
Lucy Foley has solidified her reputation as a maestro of gripping mysteries with well-crafted plots and captivating twists. Celebrated for her earlier novels, such as The Guest List and The Paris Apartment, her latest release, The Midnight Feast, continues her trend of keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Now is the perfect time to catch up on Foley’s existing works as she usually publishes a new book every two years.
Rebecca Yarros: Fantasy and Romance Blend
Rebecca Yarros has mesmerized readers with her fantasy series The Empyrean, which took off in 2024, particularly on platforms like TikTok. Beginning with Fourth Wing and Iron Flame, her series artfully merges action-packed fantasy elements with deep emotional connections. The highly anticipated third installment, Onyx Storm, is set for a January 2025 release, and with a total of five books planned, there’s much more to look forward to for fans. For those eager to dive into her world, Yarros boasts a compelling back catalog worth exploring.
Conclusion: Start Your Reading Journey
As we transition into 2025, consider adding these remarkable authors to your reading list. Their diverse storytelling ranges from heartwarming romance to riveting thrillers, ensuring that there’s something for every reader to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned bibliophile or just starting to explore the literary world, these writers promise engaging tales that will resonate with you long after the final page is turned. Embrace the new year by diving into their worlds—your reading journey awaits!
This HTML document incorporates the information from your article, formatted in a journalistic style and structured with clear headings for easy reading. It presents a comprehensive exploration of popular authors and their notable works, perfect for anyone looking to create or enhance their 2025 reading list.