This year’s selection includes a profound exploration of names, a captivating biography of William Blake, and a fresh perspective on the infamous Dr. Crippen true crime saga. The literary team is on hand to share their favorite fiction and non-fiction releases, and this list will be consistently updated throughout 2025 to serve as a valuable resource for book enthusiasts.

In Jessica Stanley’s entertaining and insightful novel, Consider Yourself Kissed, the underlying message is clear: avoid dating journalists. The story centers on Coralie, an Australian expat living in London, who falls for Adam. Initially, everything seems ideal until he secures a prestigious job at the Times, leading him to neglect his familial responsibilities. Our reviewer notes, “This is a man who describes being on The Andrew Marr Show as the highlight of his life—can their relationship withstand his soaring ambitions?” Stanley, an expat herself, adeptly captures the highs and lows of a long-term relationship with both humor and tenderness.

The Names by Florence Knapp

The much-anticipated debut novel questions whether our names shape our fates. As Cora brings her newborn son to be registered, her abusive husband, Gordon, wishes to name him after himself, while their daughter, Maia, proposes “Bear.” Cora is fond of the name Julian. The narrative branches into three alternate paths, tracing the boy’s journey into manhood and illustrating the stark differences brought on by his various names. Reviewer Laura Hackett expressed, “I devoured The Names in one sitting, transfixed, and occasionally teary-eyed.”

The Image of Her by Simone de Beauvoir

This newly translated edition of de Beauvoir’s 1966 work reaffirms her prowess as a novelist and philosopher. The plot revolves around Laurence, a promising copywriter and mother, caught in a seemingly flawless life with a thriving husband and an attractive lover. Yet, she faces mounting challenges, including difficult inquiries from her anxious daughter and demanding parents. Ceci Browning remarked in her review, “The best remedy for heartbreak in this novel is simple: don dark sunglasses and head somewhere extravagant for lunch. It’s the standout read for me this year.”

The Pretender by Jo Harkin

Set in 1483, young John Collan’s simple life is disrupted by a troublesome goat and a communication breakdown between his father and the dairy maid. His routine is turned upside down when a dubious aristocrat claims John is the true Earl of Warwick, a beacon of hope for the Yorkist faction in its ongoing civil conflict against the Lancastrians. Jo Harkin’s vibrant retelling is loosely inspired by Lambert Simnel, a contender for the throne during Henry VII’s reign, filled with humor, poignancy, and an array of unexpected themes. Antonia Senior opines, “Though Simnel might not claim the English crown, this book is a strong contender for historical fiction of the year.”

Fair Play by Louise Hegarty

On New Year’s Eve in an Irish country house, a group of friends in their thirties comes together for Benjamin’s birthday celebrations with a murder mystery theme. However, by morning, Benjamin is discovered dead. Dismissing local authorities’ suicide verdict, his sister Abigail hires private detective Auguste Bell, whose style nods to Agatha Christie. This novel artfully deconstructs the murder mystery genre as it shifts between Bell’s classic inquiry and Abigail’s heartfelt mourning. A compelling debut.

The Homemade God by Rachel Joyce

Following the success of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, Rachel Joyce pivots her narrative style with The Homemade God, chronicling the family vacation of Vic Kemp, an aging artist, alongside his children—Goose, Susan, Iris, and Netta. However, tensions flare as Vic introduces his much younger wife, Bella-Mae, amidst sunny skies. Our reviewer noted the narrative possesses a depth and grandeur that reveals the complex dynamics lurking in family situations.

Dream Count by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s much-anticipated novel Dream Count follows four women from Africa: the affluent travel writer Chiamaka, anxious lawyer Zikora, daring banker Omelogor, and the resilient Kadiatou, a housekeeper. Their intertwined lives create a rich tapestry of 21st-century experiences across continents. Adichie deftly explores themes of female oppression while offering moments of levity and humor, making this story both engaging and enlightening.

Fundamentally by Nussaibah Younis

Fundamentally boasts an inventive premise, featuring Nadia, an academic on sabbatical overseeing a UN initiative aimed at deradicalizing Isis brides in Iraq. Though the premise appears daunting, the narrative unfolds into a humorous satire with a relatable, somewhat hapless protagonist, and an outspoken east London bride. It is both entertaining and poignant.

Three Days in June by Anne Tyler

Anne Tyler’s latest novel explores a quiet family drama centered on an unremarkable family in Baltimore. The lead character, Gail, is portrayed with vivid realism—awkward, unsentimental, and reminiscent of Olive Kitteridge. Stripped of her role as an assistant head at a private school and facing uncertainty as her daughter prepares for marriage, Gail contends with an unexpected visit from her unpredictable ex-husband alongside a rescue cat. The narrative balances warmth with an insightful look at family dynamics.

The Ghosts of Rome by Joseph O’Connor

This second entry in O’Connor’s planned trilogy follows his acclaimed My Father’s House, set amidst the tension of occupied Rome. The plot introduces an airman with a malfunctioning parachute who descends into the occupied city. Reviewer Peter Kemp remarked that the novel’s portrayal of Nazi oppression is richly layered with reminders of Rome’s historical grandeur, creating a haunting and evocative backdrop.

Non-Fiction

Sword: D-Day — Trial by Battle by Max Hastings

Max Hastings revisits the Allied invasion of Normandy, focusing on the personal stories of soldiers on Sword Beach. Through detailed accounts of 29,000 men, the book illuminates individual personality traits and the emotional baggage they carried into battle, making it a powerful tribute to their experiences.

Mark Twain by Ron Chernow

This insightful biography of Mark Twain captures the complexity of the man behind the literary legacy. Ron Chernow paints a multifaceted portrait, revealing Twain’s genius alongside his controversial beliefs, while also exploring his entrepreneurial ventures. It’s a compelling examination of a remarkable figure in American literature.

Don’t Forget We’re Here Forever by Lamorna Ash

Lamorna Ash’s exploration of the resurgence of Christianity among youth emerges as a poignant quest. Her lyrical narrative charts her own re-engagement with faith, enriched by her experiences of attending a Bible course and engaging with various spiritual practices. This introspective account reveals a profound understanding of ritual and community.

The Ocean’s Menagerie by Drew Harvell

Drew Harvell, a marine biologist, presents an enchanting peek into the underwater world’s wonders, showcasing remarkable marine life and their captivating stories. Even everyday creatures like sponges carry unexpected tales of life in the ocean, making this book an exploration of considerable depth.

Allies at War by Tim Bouverie

Following his notable work, Appeasing Hitler, Tim Bouverie’s latest book provides a thorough analysis of the alliances formed during World War II. This study includes a wider lens on the relationships that shaped the Allied effort against Hitler, encompassing various historical context often overlooked.

Story of a Murder: The Wives, the Mistress and Dr. Crippen by Hallie Rubenhold

In this riveting narrative examining Dr. Hawley Crippen’s notorious crime saga, Hallie Rubenhold shifts the focus from Crippen himself to the women affected by his actions. This fresh perspective dives deep into the lives of the victims, creating an engaging tension throughout the story.

John and Paul: A Love Story in Songs by Ian Leslie

This examination of the relationship between John Lennon and Paul McCartney adds a heartfelt chapter to Beatles literature. Beginning in 1957 with their first meeting, Leslie brings a new perspective on their creative partnership and musical evolution in a non-technical and accessible style.

The Age of Diagnosis by Suzanne O’Sullivan

In her latest work, neurologist Suzanne O’Sullivan addresses the troubling trend of overdiagnosis in medicine, exploring how societal shifts affect the identification of various conditions. While critical of this trend, she balances skepticism with compassion towards those labeled as sick.

The Sleep Room: A Very British Medical Scandal by Jon Stock

Jon Stock investigates the unsettling practices of psychiatrist William Sargant, who administered extreme therapies in an infamous psychiatric unit. Through interviews with former patients, including notable figures, Stock sheds light on the dark side of psychiatric history.

Careless People by Sarah Wynn-Williams

Sarah Wynn-Williams recounts her journey from a hopeful employee at Facebook to a disillusioned critic of its operations. This sharp narrative explores the platform’s ethical contradictions and societal impacts, crafting a resonant story of lost ideals.

The Golden Throne: The Curse of a King by Christopher de Bellaigue

The sequel in Christopher de Bellaigue’s trilogy on Suleyman the Magnificent blends historical intrigue with personal transformation. This installation captures the complexities of Suleyman’s reign as he navigates newfound maturity amidst his political ambitions.

Which book has captured your attention this year? Share your thoughts in the comments.