Winter is the perfect excuse to curl up with a blanket, a warm drink, and a stack of reads straight from my winter reading list for 2025! We’ll explore everything from gripping 2025 fiction releases to heartwarming memoirs, as well as the top historical fiction books released in 2025 that bring the past vividly to life. Some of these must-read books winter in 2025 are books I’ve already finished, either on my own or with my book club (shoutout to my fellow bookworms!), while others are ones I’m currently savoring.
In other words, for those who love to stay on top of the new book releases in 2025, you’re in for a treat. There’s something here for every taste and mood.
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Top Book Recommendations to Add to Your 2025 Winter Reading List
Reading has a way of grounding me, and I frankly love it because there’s always something new to explore. This year’s seasonal reading list 2025 includes books from a variety of genres. Because I firmly believe that variety is the spice of a great reading life.
If you’re like me, you know there’s nothing better than diving into a story while the world outside gets a little frostier. It’s quite literally a part of my daily routine. That’s why I’m so excited to share this year’s winter reading list for 2025. Think of it as a curated selection of must-read books for winter 2025 that will keep you turning pages long after the cocoa runs out.
As always, I’ve handpicked every title based on my own favourites. Over the years, this series of summer and winter book recommendations has become a reader favourite, and I love hearing your thoughts on the stories we all devour.
Whether you’re into cozy romance novels for winter reading, the best mystery novels to read in winter 2025, or the most highly anticipated non-fiction books for winter 2025, I’ve got you covered. There is something for every taste. Relationships? Check. Self-care tips? Double check! Hosting tips? You bet!
Without further ado, these are the top books for winter 2025.
Must-Read Fiction Books for Winter 2025
The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young
If you’re craving a story that’s as hauntingly beautiful as a frosty winter morning, The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young belongs at the top of your must-read books winter 2025 list. Set in the quaint mountain town of Jasper, North Carolina, this read weaves family, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural into a narrative you won’t soon forget.
The Farrow women have always been surrounded by whispers of a curse, the kind of lore small towns love to gossip about. For June Farrow, it’s not just gossip—it’s her reality. Living in the shadow of her family’s thriving flower farm and the tragic disappearance of her mother, Susanna Farrow, June has been bracing herself for the inevitable.
This novel masterfully combines heartache, hope, and a sprinkling of magic, making it the literary equivalent of a cozy blanket and a cup of cocoa. Don’t sleep on this one—it’s perfect for readers who enjoy tales that blur the lines between reality and the extraordinary.
The Women by Kristin Hannah
Next up in the 2025 winter reading list is another book club book and the group’s top-rated book from 2024. In Kristin Hannah’s The Women, twenty-year-old Frances “Frankie” McGrath leaves her sheltered Southern California life and steps into the chaos of 1965 Vietnam as part of the Army Nurse Corps. Following her brother to the warfront, she finds herself unprepared for the unimaginable destruction and heartbreak of combat, where every moment is a test of courage, resilience, and humanity.
Amid the horrors of war, Frankie forges deep friendships with those who are lucky, brave, and broken in equal measure. But the battle doesn’t end when the war does—returning home, Frankie is confronted with a divided America, hostile protests, and a nation eager to forget its past. A testament to forgotten heroines, The Women is a gripping tale of bravery, loss, and the enduring bonds of friendship.
Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll
Now, let’s move on to my current January bookclub book. If you’re hunting for a must-read book for winter 2025, Jessica Knoll’s Bright Young Women will send shivers down your spine. Set in 1978, this gripping thriller dives headfirst into a sorority house tragedy in Florida, where a notorious murderer changes the lives of those he leaves behind. Among them is Pamela Schumacher, the sorority president turned key witness, whose determination to seek justice makes her an unforgettable protagonist. Across the country, Tina Cannon is equally relentless, convinced her missing friend was one of the killer’s earliest victims. Together, these two dynamic women embark on a high-stakes quest for answers that builds to a jaw-dropping confrontation.
Whether you’re a fan of thrillers or just looking for top books for winter 2025, this is a standout addition to your seasonal reading list. And according to the 12,000+ glowing reviews on Amazon, thousands of folks agree with me.
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
If you are into novels that combine historical intrigue with a page-turning murder mystery, Ariel Lawhon’s The Frozen River is the perfect pick for your winter reading list 2025. Set in Maine during the harsh winter of 1789, the story begins with the discovery of a man’s body trapped in the icy Kennebec River. Enter Martha Ballard, a midwife and healer whose meticulous diary holds the secrets of her small, tight-knit town. Months earlier, Martha documented an alleged rape involving two of the town’s most upstanding citizens—one of whom is now the murder victim.
When her conclusions about the death are publicly challenged, Martha takes it upon herself to uncover the truth, even as her investigation places her loved ones in peril. This tense and thought-provoking novel is a standout among 2025 fiction releases and a must for anyone seeking winter book recommendations.
Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros
This is by far one of the most anticipated 2025 fiction releases because the third book is coming out this month in the Fourth Wing series. Picking up after nearly 18 months at Basgiath War College, Violet Sorrengail finds herself on the brink of war. With enemies lurking both outside the walls and within her ranks, trust becomes a luxury she can’t afford. Tasked with venturing beyond the crumbling Aretian wards, Violet must summon every ounce of her strength to secure alliances that might save her dragons, her loved ones, and her homeland. But secrets and storms loom large, threatening to unravel everything she’s fighting for.
Perfect for fantasy enthusiasts seeking winter book recommendations, this epic tale is a standout among upcoming novels in 2025.
Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors
If you’re curating a winter reading list for 2025 packed with emotion, Coco Mellors’ Blue Sisters is a heartfelt gem you don’t want to miss. This novel follows the lives of the three Blue sisters, each exceptional yet navigating their own struggles: Avery, a lawyer in London battling addiction recovery; Bonnie, a former boxer turned bouncer in Los Angeles; and Lucky, a Parisian model trying to escape her turbulent lifestyle. Their already complicated lives are shadowed by the death of their fourth sister, Nicky—a loss that sends ripples through the family.
When the trio is forced to reunite in New York to save their childhood home, they’re confronted with painful memories, unresolved grief, and secrets they’ve kept from each other—and themselves. With a blend of humor and poignant moments, Mellors explores what it means to find strength in shared vulnerability and rediscover life’s beauty after loss.
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
If you want to add one of the best mystery novels to read in winter 2025 to your checklist, look no further than Liz Moore’s The God of the Woods. The story kicks off in August 1975, when a camp counselor discovers the bunk of thirteen-year-old Barbara Van Laar is empty. As the daughter of the family that owns the summer camp—and employers of most of the local community—Barbara’s disappearance sends shockwaves through the region. To make matters worse, it’s not the first tragedy for the Van Laar family; Barbara’s older brother disappeared under eerily similar circumstances 14 years prior, never to be found.
It’s absolutely perfect for readers craving winter book recommendations with depth and complexity.
Intermezzo by Sally Rooney
If you’re searching for winter book recommendations with emotional depth and nuanced storytelling, Intermezzo: A Novel by Andrew Meehan deserves a spot on your seasonal reading list for 2025. The story follows two brothers, Peter and Ivan Koubek, as they navigate grief in the wake of their father’s death. Peter, a successful Dublin lawyer, struggles to hold his life together while caught between his enduring first love, Sylvia, and the carefree, unpredictable Naomi. Meanwhile, Ivan, a socially awkward chess prodigy, finds himself drawn into an intense and unexpected connection with Margaret, an older woman reckoning with her own turbulent past.
With its introspective tone and richly drawn characters, Intermezzo is a standout among 2025 fiction releases and a must-read book for winter 2025.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by Victoria E. Schwab
Add some magic and heartache to your winter reading list for 2025 with V.E. Schwab’s breathtaking novel, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue. The story begins in 1714 France, where a desperate young woman, Addie, strikes a Faustian deal to live forever—at the cost of being forgotten by everyone she meets. For nearly 300 years, Addie wanders the world, carving her place in history while struggling against the loneliness of her curse.
But everything changes when she meets Henry, a young man in a hidden bookstore who not only sees her but remembers her name. This meeting unravels a tale of love, longing, and the enduring human need to leave a mark on the world. Perfect for fans of deeply emotional stories, this novel is a standout among 2025 fiction releases and a must-read book for winter 2025.
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
More than 30,000 Amazon reviewers agree that The Wedding People by Alison Espach deserves a spot in your list of must-read books winter for 2025. Set in Newport, Rhode Island, the story kicks off when Phoebe Stone arrives at the grand Cornwall Inn, hoping for a final, luxurious splurge on herself after hitting rock bottom. Wearing a green dress and gold heels, she’s mistaken for a wedding guest, but in reality, she’s the only one not attending the big event. Phoebe had once dreamed of taking sunset sails and shucking oysters with her husband, but now she’s here alone, facing the unthinkable.
As fate would have it, Phoebe strikes up an unlikely connection with the bride, who has meticulously planned every detail of the weekend—except for Phoebe and her unexpected presence. The Wedding People is an ideal pick for winter book recommendations, offering a deeply resonant story about second chances and surprising connections.
Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout
For readers seeking winter book recommendations that delve deep into the human heart, Elizabeth Strout’s Tell Me Everything is a must-add to your seasonal reading list for 2025. Set in the quiet town of Crosby, Maine, this novel brings together beloved characters—Lucy Barton, Olive Kitteridge, and Bob Burgess—who are navigating life’s most profound questions. As a shocking crime shakes the community, Bob Burgess becomes embroiled in a murder investigation while also forming an unexpected friendship with Lucy. The two spend countless hours walking together, reflecting on their pasts, regrets, and the meaning of their lives. Tell Me Everything is a rich, deeply empathetic novel that explores the bonds that hold us together.
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
For those looking for a must-read book for winter 2025 that tackles real-world issues with a gripping, emotional voice, Barbara Kingsolver’s Demon Copperhead is a powerful choice. Set in the heart of southern Appalachia, this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of Demon, a boy born to a teen mother in a single-wide trailer, with little more than his dead father’s good looks and copper-colored hair. His journey through life, narrated in his unflinching voice, takes readers through the tough realities of foster care, child labor, addiction, and love loss.
As Demon wrestles with his own invisibility in a culture that has turned its back on rural communities, Kingsolver channels the same anger and compassion Dickens did in his iconic David Copperfield. This novel isn’t just for fans of classic literature—it’s an intense, layered read that’s sure to be one of the best books of 2025.
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
Next up we have a National Book Award finalist that’s rich in history and heart. Pachinko by Min Jin Lee takes place in the early 1900s. The novel follows Sunja, a teenage girl from a fishing village in Korea, who falls for a wealthy stranger. When she discovers she’s pregnant and that her lover is married, she accepts an offer of marriage from a sickly but kind-hearted minister, agreeing to leave her home and head to Japan. This decision to turn her back on her son’s powerful father sets in motion a dramatic family saga that spans generations.
With its stunning depiction of love, sacrifice, ambition, and loyalty, Pachinko is one of those must-read books for winter 2025 that will stay with you long after you finish reading.
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
On the hunt for a truly must-read book for winter 2025 to your collection? Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano is an emotional, heartwarming choice. The novel centers on William Waters, a man raised in a home defined by tragedy and emotional silence. When he meets Julia Padavano in college, his world transforms. Julia and her three inseparable sisters—Sylvie, a dreamer; Cecelia, an artist; and Emeline, the caretaker—bring light, love, and chaotic joy into William’s life. A modern-day homage to Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women, Hello Beautiful explores loyalty, sacrifice, and the complexity of familial love. This profound, moving narrative makes it one of the best books of 2025 and an essential addition to your seasonal reading list for 2025.
The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros
Yes, that’s yet another Rebecca Yarros novel that instantly stole my heart. This time it’s a historical fiction book about a military romance that will tug at your heartstrings. This emotionally charged novel follows Ella, a single mother struggling with the grief of losing her husband, and Beckett, her brother’s best friend. When Beckett fulfills his friend’s final request to look after Ella after he’s killed in action, the two find themselves navigating not just their loss, but an unexpected, deep connection. As Ella and Beckett confront their pasts, The Last Letter explores themes of trust, vulnerability, and the healing power of love. With Yarros’ tender writing, The Last Letter is a story of hope and second chances, perfect for your 2025 fiction release list.
Good Material by Dolly Alderton
For a must-read book this winter 2025, Good Material by Dolly Alderton is a brilliantly sharp and deeply relatable choice. The novel follows Andy, a man whose life is in limbo after his breakup with Jen, the woman he loves. As he grapples with heartbreak, a stalled career, and the feeling of being left behind while everyone else seems to be moving forward, Andy becomes obsessed with understanding what went wrong in his relationship. In his search for answers, he begins to question everything—including Jen’s side of the story.
Alderton’s Good Material masterfully combines humor with the emotional complexities of romantic loss, offering a fresh take on the love story genre.
Best Non-fiction Books for Your 2025 Winter Reading List
Be Ready When The Luck Happens by Ina Garten
Let’s start with one of the best non-fiction books 2025 has to offer Be Ready When The Luck Happens by Ina Garten. I just finished reading it and I absolutely loved it! If you’re a fan of food, inspiration, and stories that make you feel all warm inside, you’ll love it too. For the first time, Ina takes us behind the curtain, sharing her incredible journey from a bureaucratic desk job to becoming the Barefoot Contessa we all adore. This book is like having a heart-to-heart with Ina herself—equal parts motivating and delightful. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her world, this memoir will have you dreaming big and believing in the magic of hard work.
The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins
Need a mindset makeover? I am currently reading Mel Robbins’ latest book, The Let Them Theory and it’s ah-mazing! With her trademark no-nonsense style, Robbins dives deep into the simple yet revolutionary idea of letting go—of others’ opinions, judgments, and drama—and reclaiming control over your happiness, goals, and life. This guide is packed with relatable anecdotes, expert-backed strategies, and actionable advice to help you stop wasting energy on the uncontrollable and start focusing on YOU. From building stronger relationships to silencing self-doubt, Robbins equips you with tools to thrive in every area of life. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by others’ expectations or stuck in your pursuit of success, this top book for winter 2025 is a must-read for anyone ready to step into their power.
For more great reads, check out these 8 books for healthy relationships.
From Here to the Great Unknown: A Memoir by Lisa Marie Presley & Riley Keough
I listened to Riley on the Skinny Confidential podcast and immediately added “From Here to the Great Unknown: A Memoir “ to my TBR list. Get ready to feel all the emotions with this deeply moving memoir from Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough. Written in the voices of both mother and daughter, this unique collaboration bridges two worlds to share the untold story of Lisa Marie’s extraordinary life. From wild childhood antics at Graceland to the heartache of addiction and loss, Lisa Marie’s recorded memories, brought to life by Riley, create a vivid and emotional portrait of a woman navigating love, pain, and resilience.
This is more than a memoir—it’s a heartfelt tribute, a healing journey, and a look into the legacy of one of America’s most iconic families.
Taste by Stanley Tucci
Stanley Tucci invites readers to pull up a chair and savor the rich flavors of his life in Taste: My Life Through Food. This delightful memoir combines the warmth of family dinners, the chaos of burned dishes, and the magic of meals shared with loved ones. From his Italian American childhood in Westchester, New York, to the behind-the-scenes stories from foodie films like Big Night and Julie & Julia, Tucci dishes out humor, nostalgia, and plenty of heart.
Written with his signature wit, this book goes beyond recipes to explore how food shapes our memories, relationships, and even careers. It’s a feast for anyone who’s ever found joy in a perfectly prepared dish—or a hilariously failed one.
The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker
Granted, The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker is by no means a 2025 new book release. However, I really wanted to revisit this year to learn how to be a better host. Think your gatherings could use a glow-up? Parker argues that the secret to meaningful gatherings isn’t fancy food or Pinterest-Perfect Table set-ups —it’s about focusing on the people and creating intentional, distinctive experiences. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or leading a boardroom meeting, her tips will help you bring people together in ways that truly matter.
Drawing on her experience as a global facilitator, Parker takes readers through real-world examples of gatherings done right (and wrong), offering actionable advice you can use immediately.
Self Compassion by Kristin Neff
Let’s wrap up the list with one of the best non-fiction books 2025 has to offer. If your inner critic has been on overdrive, it’s time to replace it with something much kinder—self-compassion. In Self-Compassion, Kristin Neff, Ph.D., offers expert guidance on how to silence the negative voice in your head and build a healthier relationship with yourself. By shifting the focus from self-esteem to self-compassion, Neff introduces a more sustainable way to tackle life’s challenges, whether you’re navigating parenting struggles, weight loss, or the stresses of everyday life. You’ll find loads of actionable exercises relatable advice, and the tools to leave insecurity behind for good.
This Was My Complete 2025 Winter Reading List
I’d like to think that this winter reading list 2025 will be your perfect companion for cozy nights and quiet mornings. From the best mystery novels to read in winter 2025 to the most highly anticipated non-fiction books for winter 2025, these titles promise to inspire, entertain, and transport you to new worlds. Whether you’re diving into a heartwarming memoir, getting lost in top historical fiction books releasing in 2025, or savouring cozy romance novels for winter reading 2025, there’s something here for every reader.
Remember, reading is an investment in yourself. So take a moment to add these must-read books for winter 2025 to your TBR pile. Whether you finish them solo or in a book club, they’re bound to spark conversations, emotions, and maybe even some new ideas.
Now, go on—start reading, and let me know which of these top books for winter 2025 becomes your favourite!
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