Best Books of 2025
Do you like Best of book lists? So do I! Read my choices, then leave comments!
Read MoreLetter to the Future, by Michael D. O'Brien
This Catholic novel is one of the best books of the year, by the incomparable Michael D. O’Brien. A must-read.
Read MoreBuckeye, by Patrick Ryan
A beautifully crafted historical novel, demonstrating the traumas of war, prejudice, and lack of parental love, and how these can impact generationally. Excellent book club choice, and one of the best of 2025.
Read MoreEvery Day I Read: 53 Ways to Get Closer to Books, by Hwang Bo-Reum
Even dedicated readers will find pleasure in Hwang’s thoughtful essays about making reading books a significant part of your life.
Read MoreAerth, by Deborah Tomkins
A story of two planets on opposite sides of a sun, each experiencing different climate challenges, and the astronaut who travels to each. We see their choices through his eyes. Excellent novella, great for book clubs.
Read MoreThe Correspondent, by Virginia Evans
A novel of letters and emails written by and to Sybil Stone Van Antwerp, a woman in the last decade of her life, seeking to resolve deep grief, loss, and help those she cares for. Best of the year, IMHO.
Read MoreAfter That, the Dark, the Fifth Cameron Winter Mystery by Andrew Klavan
The fifth in the Cameron Winter Mystery series, Winter finds love, and a past case finds him, threatening his newfound stability and peace. Well written, highly suspenseful with great plotting and propulsive action.
Read MoreThe Dream Hotel, by Laila Lalami
Dystopian nightmare set in the near future, where corporate interests treat individuals as data for profit, and people surrender freedom for security. Well written, and so easy to see it all happening. One of the best of 2025.
Read MoreListening to the Law: Reflections on the Court and Constitution, by Amy Coney Barrett
Instructive and entertaining, Amy Coney Barrett reveals the human and thoughtful work of the Supreme Court, in this important book.
Read MoreReplaceable You: Adventures in Human Anatomy, by Mary Roach
Another educational lark with Mary Roach, this time to learn the science and practice of replacing human body parts. Not to be missed.
Read MoreThe Impossible Fortune, by Richard Osman
Joyce, Elizabeth, Ibrahim, and Ron return with another exciting, entertaining mystery, the fifth in the series. Be sure to watch The Thursday Murder Club movie on Netflix, too.
Read MoreBroken Country, by Clare Leslie Hall
A coming-of-age novel, with two deep loves, a grievous loss, and a mystery all entwined. Well-crafted novel, a stand-out.
Read MoreThe Idaho Four: An American Tragedy, by James Patterson and Vicky Ward
For a sensitive, complete report of this tragedy, the individuals lost, the perpetrator, and the community of family and friends impacted, this is the book to read.
Read MoreThe Real Anthony Fauci: Bill Gates, Big Pharma, and the Global War on Democracy and Public Health, by Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
Whether you love him or hate him, it is important to learn the facts, and read various viewpoints. Bring an open mind to this book, then draw your own conclusions.
Read MoreIsola, by Allegra Goodman
Historical fiction, with interesting characters and themes, a novel bringing life to the Age of Exploration.
Read MoreThe Comfort of Crows: A Backyard Year, by Margaret Renkl
A meditative book, following the year week by week, with natural observations, and life lessons. Enjoy Renkl’s beautiful writing.
Read MoreThe Book of Alchemy: A Creative Practice for an Inspired Life, by Suleika Jaouad
Many other creatives offer prompts for journaling, but none from Jaouad herself? Read my review, and tell me if you agree or disagree with my assessment.
Read MoreAtmosphere, by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Atmosphere is about the birth of the space shuttle program, the women fighting for their place in space, and a love story. Another TJR page turner.
Read MoreDeath of the Author, by Nnedi Okorafor
Fascinating science fiction novel exploring AI and augmented technology, and what their rapid adoption may mean for humanity, all wrapped around a strong female protagonist. Highly recommended.
Read MoreIt's Only Drowning: A True Story of Learning to Surf and the Search for Common Ground, by David Litt
When blue liberal David Litt seeks improved mental health through surfing, he has an opportunity to learn about how red conservatives see the world from his brother-in-law, Matt. He doesn’t quite get there, but at least opens the door, in this funny memoir.
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