20 unmissable fiction reads to watch out for in 2025

The start of a new year always brings a fresh wave of exciting fiction, and 2025 is no exception. From gripping thrillers to heartwarming romances, these upcoming releases are set to be some of the most talked-about reads of the year. So whatever your favourite genre, we’ve rounded up 20 unmissable books that deserve a spot on your bookshelf.

We All Live Here by Jojo Moyes – Out 11th February

Jojo Moyes returns with another emotionally charged novel, expertly weaving together moments of humour and heartbreak to create a story that will stay with you long after you put it down. In her latest novel, we meet Lila, a woman reeling from her husband’s affair, who is dealing with the challenges and pressures of a chaotic family life, raising two daughters and living with her elderly stepfather. Offering a refreshing take on blended families, this read is heartfelt, fun and hopeful. 

Life Number Nine by Joe Heap – Out 13th February

In his third novel, Heap explores love through eras and across continents in this immersive literary love story. Mika and Jem are perfect strangers, recognising each other only through a shared dream, and yet as their lives interwine again and again, they realise they have known and loved each other across the centuries. Prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster in Heap’s newest release.

My Favourite Mistake by Marian Keyes – Out 13th February

Keyes is back with her signature warmth and wit in her latest book, following Anna in the seventh instalment of her series following the Walsh sisters. Set in small town Ireland, the novel brilliantly observes what it is to be a woman with plenty of humour.

The Sirens by Emilia Hart – Out 13th February

The second novel from Emilia Hart details the story of two sets of sisters separated by hundreds of years, but connected by the same mysterious phenomenon. Perfect for anyone fond of historical fiction with a twist of magical realism. 

The Daughter by T.M. Logan – Out 27th February

As no stranger to gripping psychological thrillers, Logan delivers another unputdownable read in his latest novel. Following the desperate race against time for one mother who arrives to pick her daughter up from university, only to find she is nowhere to be found, this twisty thriller will keep you hooked. 

The Swell by Kat Gordon – Out 27th February

Split between the early and late 20th century, Gordon beautifully captures the bewitching atmosphere of mythical Iceland as we follow two generations of women in this page-turning mystery. At its heart is a story of female power, courage and survival that will pull you in from the first few pages.

The Surf House by Lucy Clarke – Out 27th February

If you’re in the market for an escapist thriller, look no further. Clarke delivers a transportive page-turner that whisks us away to a hidden gem on Morocco’s shores. The novel’s protagonist, Bea, quickly realises that the idyllic surfing retreat is anything but when she discovers the sun-drenched paradise holds dark and dangerous undercurrents.

The Theatre of Glass and Shadows – Out 27th February

Rich and atmospheric, Corlett’s novel transports us to an alternative mid-20th century England, where an entire London district has been transformed into an immersive theatre experience. Full of secrets and darkness, this intriguing story will draw you in.

Scot and Bothered by Alexandra Kiley – Out 4th March

Set against the rugged landscape of the remote Isle of Skye, aspiring author Brooke and nature photographer Jack have no choice but to confront old feelings when they are forced back together during a hiking trip. This is a gorgeous slow-burn romance exploring the power of second chances.

The New Neighbours by Claire Douglas – Out 13th March

Douglas is a master of domestic thrillers, and her latest leaves us questioning how well you can ever trust your neighbours when Lena overhears a conversation from the elderly couple next door as they seemingly plot a crime. Full of twists and turns, this is a compelling read you won’t want to miss. 

Swept Away by Beth O’Leary – Out 8th April

After a run of bestselling romances including The Flatshare and The Road Trip, O’Leary’s latest centres around two strangers lost at sea after a houseboat gets swept out into open ocean. If you want a dose of escapist and light-hearted romance, this is the book for you. 

The Midnight Carousel by Fiza Saeed McLynn – Out 24th April

In her absorbing debut, Fiza Saeed McLynn depicts a magical mystery as protagonist Maisie unearths a beautiful, neglected carousel. Unbeknownst to her, it was first linked to the disappearances of several people twenty years ago, and now it seems history is starting to repeat itself. With well-rounded characters and an intriguing plot, it’s well worth a place on your reading list.

This Is Not a Game by Kelly Mullen – Out 24th April

Mullen’s debut sees grandmother and granddaughter, Mimi and Addie, become an unlikely detective duo after attending a lavish auction in Mackinac Island which leaves one socialite dead, and after another body turns up, it soon becomes a race against time to uncover the truth. This sharp mystery blends intrigue with plenty of glamour, offering a fresh take on the classic whodunnit. 

Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry – Out 24th April

Sunday Times bestseller, Emily Henry, brings to life rivals to lovers in her newest release, as two writers compete for the chance to tell the story of a reclusive heiress. Full of fun and romance, this is a charming holiday read. 

Favourite Daughter by Morgan Dick – Out 1st May

Morgan Dick’s debut presents a dysfunctional family drama, exploring grief, addiction and sisterhood. Set inside a therapy room, two estranged sisters are forced back together at the request of their dying father. It’s honest, raw and sensitively observed.

Cover Story by Mhairi McFarlane – Out 8th May

Romantic and witty, McFarlane’s brand new rom-com combines enemies to lovers and fake dating when co-workers Bel and Connor are forced to pretend to be a couple in a bid to land the biggest scoop of their careers. 

It Should Have Been You by Andrea Mara – Out 8th May

Mara’s latest domestic thriller will leave you on the edge of your seat as we witness the fallout from a gossip-filled message sent in error to a tight-knit community WhatsApp group. A woman with the same address is soon found dead in what appears to be a case of mistaken identity, sparking fears as to who may be next. Brilliantly crafted, this is the definition of a page turner.

The Treasures by Harriet Evans – Out 12th June

The Treasures marks the beginning of a new series following the generations of one family over 50 years. Evans’ novel begins with Alice and Tom, growing up in New York and Notting Hill, respectively, but when Tom is taken to Wales by his aunt, a lost treasure, a forgotten letter and a phone call brings them both together.

Don’t Let Him In by Lisa Jewell – Out 3rd July

Jewell’s latest mystery follows the lives of three women connected by one seemingly perfect man. As their storylines gradually interwine, prepare yourself for a series of jaw-dropping twists. Well executed, full of intensity and unpredictable, this domestic thriller is not to be missed.

Death in the Artic by Tom Hindle – Out 11th September

Hindle’s latest locked-room mystery sees Chloé Campbell take to the skies aboard a luxury airship flying to the North Pole, but when one of the passengers is found dead, tensions rise as they realise the trip of a lifetime may not be as glamorous as it first seemed. With nowhere to hide and a killer among them, Chloé has no choice but to confront the chilling truth. A riveting read in a magnificent setting.

Alexandra Davis