2025 is shaping up to be a phenomenal year for readers, and I'm positively buzzing with anticipation. Here are the new releases I'm watching closely. --- **Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros** Like most people, thanks to Booktok, I became fully invested in the Empyrean series. I have had Onyx Storm on pre-order for months, and can't wait to read it. Onyx Storm is the third book in the Empyrean series, following Fourth Wing and Iron Flame. It continues the story of Violet Sorrengail as she and her companions face new challenges � political intrigue, powerful enemies, and the complexities of their relationships. All with added romantasy to boost! Why read it: Epic fantasy with romance, compelling characters, intense action, rich world-building. Perfect if you enjoy Throne of Glass or A Court of Thorns and Roses. Due for release: 21 January 2025. --- **Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins** I've been obsessed with The Hunger Games series for years, and this love has been reignited by my son Noah recently starting the books (he's 12, and found the first instalment more than accessible). Sunrise on the Reaping is the fifth book in the series � a prequel set twenty-four years before the original, on the morning of the reaping for the Fiftieth Hunger Games. It delves into the lives of characters in District 12 as they prepare for the reaping and face the challenges of their daily lives. Why read it: Expanded Hunger Games universe, new perspectives, sharp social commentary, and an intriguing premise with the Second Quarter Quell. Due for release: 18 March 2025. --- **Dream Count by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie** After reading Americanah back in 2022, I've been a huge fan of Adichie's writing. Dream Count explores the lives of four Nigerian women as they navigate love, loss, and the complexities of life in the midst of a pandemic. It promises to be a powerful and moving exploration of the human condition. Why read it: Adichie's masterful storytelling, complex female characters, timely themes, and her signature blend of social commentary and intimate storytelling. Fans of Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah will love this. Due for release: 4 March 2025. --- **Open When by Dr Julie** There's something satisfying about cracking open a psychology or self-help book in January, isn't there? Open When is structured as a collection of letters from Dr. Julie to the reader, each addressing a specific scenario or emotion. It encourages self-reflection and offers practical strategies for managing challenges and building resilience. Why read it: Accessible self-help, personalised letter format, actionable advice, and a strong focus on mental health and self-care. Please note: Open When is a supportive resource, but not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. Due for release: 2 January 2025. --- **Spring by Michael Morpurgo** A book about my favourite season � I'm very excited! Spring is a memoir celebrating the beauty and wonder of the season. Morpurgo shares his deep love for the natural world as he observes the cycle of life unfolding on his farm in Devon. A heartwarming and insightful celebration of nature that will resonate with readers of all ages. Why read it: Morpurgo's lyrical prose, a love letter to the natural world, personal anecdotes, and themes of renewal and hope. Perfect for nature lovers and springtime reading. Due for release: 20 March 2025. --- **We All Live Here by Jojo Moyes** Jojo Moyes books simply warm my soul. I love her writing style. We All Live Here follows Lila, a woman whose life is turned upside down when her marriage falls apart and her husband moves on. She must navigate co-parenting, her own heartbreak, and rediscovering herself in the midst of a blended family. Why read it: Relatable themes of love, loss, and second chances; compelling characters; Moyes' trademark humour and warmth; and a thought-provoking exploration of modern family life. Due for release: 11 February 2025. --- **Katabasis by R.F. Kuang** This is one I'm very excited about. Yellowface was my favourite book of 2024, and I was enjoying Babel until I put it on hold for Christmas fiction. Katabasis is a dark academia fantasy novel following two rival graduate students at Cambridge University who must embark on a perilous journey to the underworld to rescue the soul of their beloved professor. As they descend, they confront their own personal demons and the corrupting influence of power. Why read it: Kuang's signature blend of historical fiction and fantasy, a compelling premise, complex characters, and dark themes of ambition and betrayal. Due for release: 28 August 2025. --- **Not Quite Dead Yet by Holly Jackson** I only got into Holly Jackson's books during the summer and always felt a little too old to be reading them � so I'm very excited to read her first adult fiction offering. Not Quite Dead Yet follows Jet Mason, a young woman told she has only seven days to live after a violent attack. Determined to make the most of her remaining time, Jet embarks on a quest to solve her own murder, uncovering a web of secrets within her privileged social circle. Why read it: Fast-paced and suspenseful, a uniquely original premise, complex characters, and exactly what thriller fans are looking for. Due for release: 17 July 2025. --- **A Death on Location by Rev. Richard Coles** I've been influenced by I'm a Celebrity! I've just downloaded the first in this series for my Kindle and I'm intrigued to read the second instalment. A Death on Location is the second Canon Clement mystery, following vicar Canon Daniel Clement who finds himself embroiled in a murder investigation when a film crew descends on his village to shoot a period drama. Why read it: Charming and witty, engaging characters, a cosy mystery atmosphere, and perfect for fans of the genre. Due for release: 5 June 2025. --- **Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid** This is the big one for me. Taylor Jenkins Reid is my favourite contemporary author, and I've not read a book of hers that I haven't loved. Atmosphere is set against the backdrop of the 1980s space shuttle program and tells the story of Joan Goodwin, an astrophysics professor who becomes an astronaut. It explores themes of love, sacrifice, and human connection against the vastness of space. If you loved the intricate character development and behind-the-scenes feel of Daisy Jones (one of my all-time favourites), you'll likely enjoy Atmosphere. I hope it's as emotionally resonant as Reid's previous novels. Why read it: Compelling characters, a meticulously researched historical setting, themes of love and loss, and Reid's signature storytelling. Due for release: 5 June 2025. --- If you're looking to expand your TBR pile (because, let's be honest, who isn't?), come find me on social media � let's swap recommendations and get ready to dive into some seriously epic stories this year.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!