Best new books to read in May 2025 including stunning debut and White Lotus-style thriller

Importance Score: 20 / 100 πŸ”΅

April was a delightful month for bibliophiles, welcoming new additions to the romance genre from authors Abby Jimenez and Emily Henry, alongside highly awaited novels from Suzanne Collins and Lauren Roberts. May also promises an abundance of eagerly awaited publications, ensuring a thriving literary landscape.

Amongst the forthcoming releases are:

  • A suspenseful narrative that interweaves elements from Love Island and White Lotus
  • A debut that will appeal to enthusiasts of Emerald Fennell’s 2023 hit, Saltburn

Below, find five exceptional books slated for release in May 2025, catering to a spectrum of preferences including romance, literary fiction, thrillers, and fantasy. For continuous updates on the latest literary recommendations, reviews, and news, sign up for our complimentary weekly newsletter, The Bookish Drop, available on Substack.

Thrilling and Intriguing Reads

The Tenant by Freida McFadden

Renowned author Freida McFadden returns with her newest psychological thriller, The Tenant, sure to captivate readers with its labyrinthine plot. The narrative revolves around Blake, who, after losing his job, struggles to meet mortgage payments on the townhouse he shares with his fiancΓ©e.

When Whitney, a charming and seemingly perfect tenant, enters the picture, Blake’s life takes a mysterious turn. Whitney’s presence raises more questions than answers, leaving readers on the edge of their seats.

Pre-order The Tenant from Waterstones available May 6.

Highly Anticipated Debuts

Sunstruck by William Rayfet Hunter

A riveting debut, Sunstruck, hails from William Rayfet Hunter, recipient of the #Merky Books’ 2022 New Writers’ Prize. The tale centers on a working-class Black man who becomes enmeshed in the opulent life of his university friend Lily’s affluent family during a summer sojourn in the South of France.

Intriguingly, the man finds himself deeply attracted to Lily’s alluring brother Felix. However, their return to London reveals a web of secrets and far-reaching consequences, exploring themes of racial identity, social strata, and personal sacrifices in the name of love.

Sunstruck is available from Waterstones May 15.

Fantastical Adventures

The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig

Those well-versed in the popular literary social media platform, BookTok, will recognize Rachel Gillig, author of the bestselling One Dark Window duology. Her latest venture, The Knight and the Moth, is the opening chapters of the new gothic series, The Stonewater Kingdom.

Readers follow Sybil, a diviner, who embarks on an enigmatic odyssey with Rodrick, a knight whose destiny remains elusive.Garnering early acclaim as one of Goodreads’ most anticipated releases, The Knight and the Moth has already garnered praise from early readers, describing it as “absolutely incredible” and surpassing its predecessor.
The Knight and the Moth available from Waterstonesfrom May 20.

Fast-Paced Suspense

People Pleaser by Catriona Stewart

Catriona Stewart’s debut, People Pleaser, introduces Maggie Lathrop, a budding actress who finds her fortunes dramatically altered after winning a popular reality dating show, LoveShack.

When Maggie is tragically found dead, and the police investigation stalls, her sister Emma takes it upon herself to uncover the truth. This fast-paced thriller, a mashup of Love Island and White Lotus, boasts memorable characters and unexpected twists, making it an ideal summertime read.

People Pleaser available to buy from Waterstones from May 22.

Romantic Escapades

Ride with Me by Simone Soltani

Romance enthusiasts will relish Ride with Me, a tale of Stella, jilted at the altar and attending her cousin’s hen party shortly afterward, and Thomas, a Formula 1 driver grappling with adoration turned scorn.

When they unexpectedly find themselves married in Las Vegas, they contemplate whether staying hitched could solve their dilemmas.

While the story is set against the backdrop of the thrilling world of Formula 1, it transcends the genre, captivating readers with its endearing protagonists
Ride with Me available to buy Waterstonesfrom May 22.


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