Here’s a curated list of the top 15 fiction and nonfiction books to consider adding to your reading list in May 2025. These selections are based on recent releases, critical acclaim, and availability on Amazon.
📚 Top Fiction Picks – May 2025
1. My Friends by Fredrik Backman
Fredrik Backman, known for A Man Called Ove, returns with My Friends, a poignant novel exploring the complexities of friendship and the human experience. Set in a small town, the story delves into the lives of a group of friends navigating life’s challenges together. Backman’s signature blend of humor and heart makes this a must-read.
2. The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig
In this fantasy debut, Rachel Gillig introduces readers to a world where darkness and light collide. The story follows a knight on a quest that challenges his beliefs and uncovers hidden truths. Gillig’s rich world-building and compelling characters make this a standout.
3. One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune
Carley Fortune’s latest novel, One Golden Summer, is a heartfelt tale of love and second chances. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque coastal town, the story captures the essence of summer romance and the complexities of rekindled relationships.
4. Hotter in the Hamptons by Christina “Tinx” Najjar
Influencer Christina “Tinx” Najjar makes her fiction debut with Hotter in the Hamptons, a witty and relatable story about self-discovery and personal growth. The novel follows an influencer’s journey to find authenticity amidst the curated world of social media.
5. The Darkening Globe by Naomi Kelsey
Naomi Kelsey’s The Darkening Globe is a gothic thriller set in Elizabethan England. The story centers on Beatrice, whose husband’s return from the New World brings a mysterious woman and a globe that predicts deaths. As Beatrice seeks the truth, she must confront her own secrets.
6. The Man Made of Smoke by Alex North
Alex North’s latest psychological thriller, The Man Made of Smoke, delves into the eerie and unexplained. The narrative weaves suspense and supernatural elements, keeping readers on edge as mysteries unfold.
7. Esperance by Adam Oyebanji
In Esperance, Adam Oyebanji crafts a science fiction tale that explores humanity’s resilience in the face of adversity. Set in a future where survival depends on unity, the story challenges characters to confront their past and embrace change.
📘 Top Nonfiction Picks – May 2025
8. We Can Do Hard Things: Answers to Life’s 20 Questions by Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle
This collaborative work offers insights into navigating life’s challenges with courage and authenticity. The authors share personal stories and practical advice, encouraging readers to embrace vulnerability and resilience.
9. The #1 Dad Book by James Patterson
Bestselling author James Patterson explores the joys and challenges of fatherhood in The #1 Dad Book. Drawing from personal experiences, Patterson provides heartfelt anecdotes and guidance for fathers seeking to strengthen their relationships with their children.
10. Apocalypse by Lizzie Wade
In Apocalypse, Lizzie Wade examines humanity’s fascination with end-of-world scenarios. The book delves into historical and cultural perspectives on apocalyptic beliefs, offering a thought-provoking analysis of our collective psyche.
11. Source Code: My Beginnings by Bill Gates
Bill Gates shares his journey from a curious child to a tech visionary in Source Code: My Beginnings. The memoir provides insights into the formative experiences that shaped his approach to innovation and philanthropy.
12. At Last She Stood by Erin Entrada Kelly
Erin Entrada Kelly’s At Last She Stood tells the inspiring story of Josefina Guerrero, a Filipino World War II spy and leprosy survivor. The narrative highlights Guerrero’s courage and contributions to the war effort, shedding light on a lesser-known historical figure.
13. Cleavage: Men, Women, and the Space Between Us by Jennifer Finney Boylan
In Cleavage, Jennifer Finney Boylan explores the complexities of gender and relationships. The book offers a nuanced discussion on identity, bridging personal experiences with broader societal themes.
14. Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live by Susan Morrison
Susan Morrison’s biography, Lorne, delves into the life of Lorne Michaels, the creator of Saturday Night Live. The book provides an in-depth look at Michaels’ influence on comedy and television over the decades.
15. Memorial Days: A Memoir by Geraldine Brooks
Pulitzer Prize-winning author Geraldine Brooks reflects on personal and historical events in Memorial Days. The memoir intertwines her experiences with broader societal changes, offering a contemplative narrative.
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