This year, our editorial team partnered with some of Google's most avid readers to dive into thousands of new books. While there were many contenders, we've curated a list of our most notable reads of 2025. Check out all of our top picks from the swooniest romance books and most exciting fantasy to the most moving nonfiction.

Ocean Vuong’s latest novel hit us with all of the feels, and we still aren’t over it. It begins with nineteen-year-old Hal about to jump off a bridge when he hears a distant shout. Grazina, an elderly widow, convinces him to take a different path, and an unlikely friendship blossoms between them. It’s a quiet masterpiece where Vuong doesn’t try to cure sadness or loneliness. Rather, they’re used as reminders that they are an integral part of what makes us human.

Hurston's posthumously published novel is a brilliant and essential work of historical fiction which masterfully re-frames one of history's most controversial figures. The book dismantles the biblical villain narrative, instead immersing the reader in the rich, complex political and cultural world of antiquity, offering profound historical context on a globally known story. Its dense, detailed narrative and revolutionary perspective make it a deeply rewarding read.

Though the bleeding, bloody heart of this novel is really about family and the ties that bind, it’s also about the hungry ghosts (both real and metaphorical) that feed off of the worst parts of who we are. Despite a lot of supernatural presence in this novel, the scariest beings in this book are actually human. Baker’s work does what horror often does best – it holds a mirror up to our world so we can clearly see the demons that emerge when we let go of our humanity.

Get ready for a never-ending ride of twists, turns, and a few time jumps while reading this book. The story opens with Cam, a loving wife and new mother, in a panicked search for her husband, only to discover via live news coverage that he's caught up in an active hostage situation. As Cam is unwillingly thrust into the ongoing investigation from years ago, the emerging details will keep you on the edge of your seat. Filled with action and a touch of romance, "page-turner" doesn't even begin to describe this sensational thriller.

This book provides a gripping account of the rise and evolution of multilevel marketing (MLM) companies from the mid-20th century to the present day. Bridget Read effortlessly weaves history, financial analysis, and real-life workforce stories to demystify the MLM industry and its impact on the economy. It’s the rare work of longform journalism that’s as engaging as it is enlightening.

This book is the perfect read for those struggling to maintain balance between achieving big career goals and protecting their personal wellbeing. As an executive coach and chronic illness advocate, AlTai’s approach to success differs from any business book you’ve read before. Backed by AlTai’s personal experience of overcoming barriers, the book encourages readers to take a look at their personal needs and skillsets in order to realign their professional goals in a way that brings joy rather than burnout.

Validation – being shown that you’re understood and valued – is one of those things that we know feels good, but we could all use a little more practice in executing effectively. Fortunately, Fleck lays out clear and practical ways to develop your validation muscle. Try out Fleck’s techniques and you’ll be amazed at how just a little validation can go a long way in your workplace, at home, and in your community.