Book List

Best Debut Fiction of 2025

FICTION

OLD SCHOOL INDIAN

by Aaron John Curtis

An affecting tale of loss and healing that thrives through its seriocomic style. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE WHITE HOT

by Quiara Alegría Hudes

This staggering gut punch of a novel shows that sometimes love looks like leaving. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE HOUNDING

by Xenobe Purvis

Purvis’ suspenseful and sure-footed debut breathes vivid life into its arresting concept. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE SLIP

by Lucas Schaefer

Swings for the fences, makes it at least to third. Franzen/Roth/Irving comparisons earned and deserved. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE SUNFLOWER BOYS

by Sam Wachman

With its luminous depiction of all that has been lost and what remains at risk, there is no better book to read right now. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

A GORGEOUS EXCITEMENT

by Cynthia Weiner

Carefully paced and beautifully written, this edgy coming-of-age novel succeeds on all counts. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

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