The holiday season is in full swing, and if you’re looking for some new reads to add to your list, there are a few standout choices causing a buzz in the literary world. From Amazon’s top picks to Goodreads Choice Award winners, there’s something for everyone to sink their teeth into.
Amazon’s Books editors have just released their Best Books of 2025 list, with Patrick Ryan’s novel “Buckeye” taking the top spot. Set in the fictional town of Bonhomie, Ohio, the book explores the intertwining lives of two Midwestern families after an affair. Described as a compassionate family saga and a Great American Novel level pick, “Buckeye” is a must-read for those looking for a heartfelt story.
On the Goodreads side of things, the 2025 Goodreads Choice Awards have seen over 7.5 million votes across 15 categories. From Fredrik Backman’s “My Friends” to Emily Henry’s “Great Big Beautiful Life,” there’s a diverse range of reading options that have captured the hearts of readers worldwide. Suzanne Collins also takes the spotlight with her YA fantasy novel “Sunrise on the Reaping,” a Hunger Games prequel that has won over fans with its gripping storyline.
As for the critics, the New York Times Book Review editors have unveiled their 10 Best Books of 2025 list, featuring a mix of fiction and nonfiction titles that have made a lasting impression. With selections like Kiran Desai’s “The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny” and Sophie Elmhirst’s “A Marriage at Sea,” there’s no shortage of thought-provoking reads to delve into this season.
So whether you’re looking to dive into a family drama like “Buckeye,” explore the complexities of art and memory with “My Friends,” or get lost in a fantasy world with “Sunrise on the Reaping,” there’s a book out there waiting to captivate you this holiday season. With so many standout titles to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect read to keep you company during these chilly winter months.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.