Are you in need of an escape to a new world? Maybe a hopeless romantic storyline that will sweep you off your feet? Or even a typical murder mystery case for you to sink your teeth into? Well, here is our round up of some of the most anticipated fictional book releases for the second half of 2025.
Starting off the recommendations off with a book I’m excited to get my hands on, Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Set for release on 3rd of June, this will be the 11th publication from the widely loved American author.
Her previous work includes the TikTok sensations The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, as well as Daisy Jones and The Six which was adapted into an Amazon Prime show last year.
If you love women’s fiction and an 80s setting then Atmosphere is for you. Following astronauts that are preparing for their first flights in 1984, a mission which changes everything forever and the extraordinary lengths we go to live and love beyond limits.
Speaking to Megan, a bookseller at Criminally Good Books in York, she said the book she is looking forward too most is The Art Of A lie: A Gripping Historical Thriller of Murder and Deceit in 18th- Century London. The book by Laura Shepherd-Robinson is due to be released 10th July.
The British author is a best selling historical fiction author with books such as Daughters of The Night and The Square of Sevens. The book will be following a woman called Hannah Cole, who is unravelling the secrets of her dead husbands double life and the speculations around his murder. Full of twists and turns, this thriller is sure to grip you and keep you on the edge of your seat.
Upon meeting, Robyn a staff member at The Portal Bookshop they were more than happy to share a new release they are looking forward too. The book is the final instalment in the best selling series Her Majesty’s Royal Coven – so check out the previous books first, there is still plenty of time to get caught up before the third instalment, Human Rites comes out on 17th July.
The series follows a top secret department of witches, who protect the crown and country from magical forces and otherworldly evil. Perfect for fans of The Discovery of Witches.
During my trip to Waterstones, I talked to avid reader John who expressed his excitement for the new instalment in the Jack Reacher series, Exit Strategy by Lee Child. This book is 30th in the iconic series, so if you aren’t already into the series, this one might be more of a stretch to catch up with before it comes out on the 21st October this year. However, the news of the release comes with lots of delight from fans with john himself saying “He can’t wait”.
And if you are in the mood for a romance, the popular site Goodreads, recommends the upcoming Ali Hazelwood release. Problematic Summer Romance is the second book in a series, but fortunately the books can be read as standalones because this book follows a different couple. It is set to release on the 27th May, making it a short wait until you can get your hands on the novel.
Hazelwood is an American author whose work includes the sensation, The Love Hypothesis. Set in Italy, Problematic Summer Romance is following will be the perfect book to read over the summer whilst soaking up some sun.
Hopefully one the reads on this list has made it into your basket, ready for it to arrive at your door on the day off its release. We can all agree there is nothing worse than spoilers ruining something you’re looking forward too. Before you know it, you’ll be relaxing and reading a new favourite book, taking you away from the stresses off everyday life.
