Best books of 2025 – my five star reads
I haven’t had time to write reviews this year, so I apologise for the brief, factual write-ups. If nothing more, it will hopefully give you somewhere to start if you are looking for a new read…
The Unwilding, Marina Kemp
Brilliantly written, this is the best book I read in 2025. I loved it all. The characters, the strong sense of place, and the observation of familial relationships, as well as the way the story builds over decades.
The Correspondent, Virginia Evans
Stories told through letters. Each letter reveals more about the main character, Sybil, and those around her, but also leaves you wanting to know more.
Learning to Swim, Clare Chambers
Intriguing story about Abigail and her relationship with The Radleys. Explores how different families can be, and how surprising and beguiling that can be when you are young. A romance with some wonderful characters.
Shy Creatures, Clare Chambers
Set in the 1960s, I loved the characters Clare created – especially Helen – and how the mystery of William unfolded.
Remarkably Bright Creatures, Shelby Van Pelt
I picked up this book in a charity shop because I was curious about the fictional story of a woman’s friendship with an octopus. It gripped me from the start, with its strong characters.
Wavewalker, Suzanne Heywood
Susanne tells the true story of how she ended up living on a yacht for ten years from the age of seven. It’s a story of an unconventional childhood and survival under the toughest of conditions.
The Women of Troy trilogy – Pat Barker
Powerful retellings of characters from Greek mythology, focusing on the women and their roles in the war.
The Huntress, Kate Quinn
Historical fiction set in the Second World War. I loved learning about the Night Witches, an all-female bomber regiment.
I also reread some five star reads from my two favourite fantasy writers.
Wyrd Sisters and Maskerade, Terry Pratchett
The Fitz and the Fool books, Robin Hobb
You can see all my ratings for the books I have read this year on Goodreads.
