New year, new TBR! I always get excited at the beginning of a year to see what books are on track to be published. Which ones can I wait to read until the library gets a copy and which ones will have me rushing to the bookstore on release day? Here are five fiction titles I am eagerly anticipating in 2025.
1. Dream Count by Chimamanda Ngoze Adichie
This latest from the prolific Adichie is set to follow the interconnected lives of four Nigerian women living in America. I'm excited for another powerhouse novel showcasing Adichie's brilliant prose and storytelling. Dream Count is set to publish on March 4, 2025.
2. The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong
Vuong is one of the most lauded writers of our time and his fiction maintains and expands upon his unique poetic voice. If his first novel and previous poetry collections are any indication, I think we’re in for a heart-wrenching read with this latest title. The Emperor of Gladness is set to publish on May 13, 2025.
3. My Friends by Fredrik Backman
Backman has risen to prominence with such beloved titles as A Man Called Ove and Beartown. His upcoming book looks set to tie together art and friendship across decades; I can’t wait for what is sure to be another touching story filled with humorous, heartfelt characters. My Friends is set to publish on May 20, 2025.
4. Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Reid’s newest title will take us back to the ’80s and up into space! I am obsessed with the stellar run Reid has gone on since The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, taking readers to different eras and celebrity worlds. Though this newest novel doesn’t seem to be as Hollywood-focused as her others, I’m sure Reid’s talent for crafting a fully immersive setting and intriguing characters will make this a must-read. Atmosphere is set to publish June 3, 2025.
5. The Listeners by Maggie Stiefvater
This World War II novel marks Stiefvater’s debut in adult fiction. I loved her Raven Cycle series in high school, so I’m excited to see what she has in store for a more mature audience (while still keeping her signature touches of magic and the supernatural). The Listeners is set to publish on June 3, 2025.