Top 6 Books of 2025 You Need to Read Now

If you’re searching for your next unforgettable book, keep reading. From swoony rom-coms to brain-bending dystopias, 2025 has given readers a dazzling array of genres and narratives. Below are six top recommendations that you should read on your bookshelf right now — along with what they’re about, why readers can’t stop gabbing about them, and why you should crack them open immediately.

1. Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter

Genre:

Young Adult Romantic Comedy

Plot:

Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter is the perfect rom-com for anyone who loves a good love story with a twist. The book follows Liz Buxbaum, a girl who has always dreamed of the perfect prom night with her forever crush, Michael. When Michael returns to town, Liz is determined to make her dreams come true. But she needs help, and that’s where Wes Bennett, her annoying next-door neighbor, comes in. Wes has always been a thorn in Liz’s side, but as they team up to get Liz noticed by Michael, she begins to see Wes in a different light.

Characters:

Liz is realistic and laugh-out-loud funny, Wes is a swoony hero with some unexpected depth, and the supporting characters bring some real emotional heft.

Ratings: 4.6/5 on Goodreads

Why You Should Read:

What makes this book so relatable and fun is the mix of humor, sweet moments, and heartwarming realizations. Liz’s journey is about discovering that sometimes love isn’t as perfect as it seems in the movies, and it can come from the most unexpected places. If you love rom-coms, quirky characters, and a story about growing up and learning what love really means, Better Than the Movies is a must-read. It’s charming, funny, and full of feel-good moments that will keep you smiling.

The Hype:

Fans of Wes and Liz’s back-and-forth on social media, and Lynn Painter’s reading voice, are now favorites among YA romance readers.

2. Red Rising by Pierce Brown

Genre:

Dystopian Science Fiction

Plot:

Red Rising by Pierce Brown is a thrilling and action-packed dystopian novel set on Mars, where society is divided into a rigid caste system based on colors. The protagonist, Darrow, is a Red, the lowest class, forced to work in the mines of Mars. His life takes a tragic turn when his wife, Eo, is executed for singing a rebellious song. Her death fuels Darrow’s determination for revenge and sparks his journey to infiltrate the ruling class of Golds. Darrow is physically transformed and trained to pass as a Gold, gaining entry into the prestigious Institute, where students are forced to fight for survival in brutal and deadly games.

Characters:

Darrow is a complex, multi-layered hero. Mustang, Sevro, and The Jackal are unforgettable.

Ratings: 4.3/5 on Goodreads

Why You Should Read:

This is your next addiction if you’re a fan of smart worldbuilding, gritty action, political intrigue, and intense rebellion.

The Hype:

The Red Rising Saga has exploded in popularity, particularly because of its darker, more mature tone than most dystopian YA. Imagine The Hunger Games with a Machiavellian twist.

3. Legendborn by Tracy Deonn

Genre:

Urban Fantasy / Arthurian Retelling

Plot:

Legendborn by Tracy Deonn is a captivating urban fantasy that blends Arthurian legend with modern-day Southern folklore. The story follows Bree Matthews, a 16-year-old Black girl who enrolls in an elite university in North Carolina after her mother’s tragic death. At the university, Bree stumbles upon a secret society known as the Legendborn, who are descendants of the Knights of the Round Table, and are tasked with hunting demons that plague the world. While struggling with grief and trying to uncover the truth behind her mother’s death, Bree discovers she possesses a unique magical ability, which makes her a valuable asset to the society.

Characters:

Bree is an amazing protagonist. Sel and Nick offer the ideal character tension, while the secondary cast enriches the lore and stakes.

Ratings: 4.5/5 on Goodreads

Why You Should Read:

For those who enjoy a mix of history, magic, and compelling character growth, Legendborn is a must-read. Deonn crafts a narrative that’s powerful, reflective, and deeply engaging, making it an unforgettable experience.

The Hype:

Praised as Shadowhunters meets Black Girl Magic, it’s a new, diverse voice in fantasy with a massive fan base.

4. Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson

Genre:

Fairy Tale / High Fantasy

Plot:

In Tress of the Emerald Sea, Sanderson takes readers on a magical adventure set on a distant, isolated island in the Emerald Sea. The protagonist, Tress, lives a quiet life, collecting cups from passing sailors, until a sudden tragedy changes everything. Her best friend, Charlie, is taken by the mysterious Sorceress and Tress is thrown into a dangerous quest to rescue him. What follows is a journey full of pirates, ancient magic, and a crew of quirky characters, including a talking rat named Huck and the enigmatic Hoid, who adds a touch of wit and mystery to the story.

Characters:

Tress is an intelligent, handy heroine. The chatty rat, the evil prince, and the quirky cast she encounters make for an imaginative, layered cast.

Ratings: 4.7/5 on Goodreads

Why You Should Read:

The beauty of Tress of the Emerald Sea lies in its inventive world-building. Sanderson crafts an entirely new magic system involving spores, with creatures that are both fascinating and dangerous. The stakes rise as Tress not only battles external foes but also wrestles with her own fears and doubts. The characters she meets along the way add depth to the narrative, and Tress herself is a standout heroine—determined, clever, and incredibly relatable.

The Hype:

One of Sanderson’s unexpected 2023 Kickstarter launch titles, its cult-like following and original voice make it a necessary read.

5. What the River Knows by Isabel Ibañez

Genre:

Historical Fantasy / Romance

Plot:

In 19th-century Buenos Aires, Inez sails to Egypt to discover what happened to her parents. Wielding ancient magic and a hot temper, she discovers secrets that put her into a perilous game of gods and guardians.

Characters:

Inez is a fierce and determined character. The romantic entanglement with her guardian’s infuriatingly good-looking assistant adds delicious tension.

Ratings: 4.6/5 on Goodreads

Why You Should Read:

Isabel Ibañez’s writing is lush and immersive, bringing the setting of Cairo to life with rich descriptions and vivid details. The book seamlessly blends historical events with a touch of fantasy, making it a unique and thrilling read. If you love a book that mixes history, magic, and romance, What the River Knows should be on your must-read list for 2025.

The Hype:

It’s a top recommendation in romance circles, and BookTok is obsessed with its rich scenery.

6. The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston

Genre:

Contemporary Romance / Magical Realism

Plot:

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to slip through time and meet the love of your life seven years before your paths were supposed to cross, The Seven Year Slip is the book you need to read. This enchanting romantic comedy follows Elisa, a woman who is dealing with the heartbreak of a recent breakup and an unexpected twist in her life. After a strange event, Elisa finds herself slipping back in time—seven years into the past—just when she meets the man who would become the love of her life, even though they don’t know it yet. What follows is a mix of fate, timing, and the kind of emotional journey that pulls at the heartstrings.

Characters:

Clementine’s inner life is masterfully described. The love interest is sweet, imperfect, and unforgettable.

Ratings: 4.4/5 on Goodreads

Why You Should Read:

The novel is a delightful exploration of love, destiny, and second chances. Elisa is a relatable and endearing protagonist, struggling with questions about love, life, and personal growth. The romance, though magical and time-bending, feels grounded in real emotions, making it all the more captivating. Ashley Poston’s writing shines with charm and wit, creating a story that balances lightheartedness with deeper, more meaningful themes.

The Hype:

Readers who loved The Midnight Library and In Five Years will love this heartwarming journey.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking romance, rebellion, or a touch of magic, these six novels are guaranteed to be unforgettable. Each title has earned its accolades and a place on this list with exceptional plots, relatable characters, and a lingering theme. So go ahead. Let the next great tale start.