Thriller and mystery novels have long captured the imaginations of readers, standing as some of the most beloved literary genres that continue to thrive today. As we approach 2025, a fresh wave of thrilling and intellectually stimulating titles will soon flood the market, marking an exciting time for both avid readers and genre enthusiasts. While a number of these upcoming novels are sequels in long-established series, reminiscent of Agatha Christie’s continued explorations of Hercule Poirot, many also spotlight new voices and standalone narratives. This diverse collection promises to engage and surprise a broad array of readers.
Last year’s top thrillers kept fans on the edge of their seats, but 2025 is shaping up to be even more exhilarating, introducing contemporary themes such as the rising fascination with true crime and the influence of cutting-edge technology on our daily lives and criminal investigations. Authors are not shying away from reimagining classic tales, adding modern twists that breathe new life into familiar mysteries. These innovative approaches are what keep fans returning to bookstores year after year.
15 Holmes Is Missing By James Patterson & Brian Sitts
Expected Release: January 6th, 2025
James Patterson, a titan in the mystery genre, teams up with Brian Sitts for the eagerly awaited sequel in the Holmes, Margaret & Poe series. In Holmes Is Missing, the ingenious detective Brendan Holmes has vanished, leading Margaret and Auguste on a gripping mission to uncover his whereabouts. This continuation promises to thrill both mystery connoisseurs and fans of Patterson’s previous works, highlighting the dynamic chemistry between the characters.
14 Vantage Point By Sara Sligar
Expected Release: January 14th, 2025
Sara Sligar returns with Vantage Point, following her successful debut, Take Me Apart. This novel delves into the complex battlefield of social media and its pervasive influence on identity and perception. As characters grapple with online realities that distort their memories, readers are invited to consider their own place within this modern conundrum.
13 Beautiful Ugly By Alice Feeney
Expected Release: January 14th, 2025
Alice Feeney’s latest work, Beautiful Ugly, offers a gripping exploration of marriage and betrayal through the eyes of Grady Green, an author haunted by his wife’s mysterious disappearance. A year later, when a woman resembling his wife reenters his life, Grady’s journey escalates into an intense exploration of secrets. Once again, Feeney captivates audiences with her ability to maintain suspense right to the final page.
12 You Are Fatally Invited By Ande Pliego
Expected Release: February 11th, 2025
You Are Fatally Invited is a meta-thriller that cleverly critiques the very tropes of the genre it embodies. Ande Pliego crafts a narrative around Mila, who aspires to execute the perfect murder amidst an ensemble of seasoned writers who are just as well-versed in crafting thrilling plots. Paying homage to Agatha Christie’s legacy, Pliego’s work presents a unique twist by intertwining humor and a sharp understanding of genre conventions.
11 Close Your Eyes And Count To 10 By Lisa Unger
Expected Release: February 18th, 2025
Lisa Unger’s Close Your Eyes and Count To 10 draws inspiration from iconic murder mysteries while presenting a fresh narrative. The novel centers around Adele, who finds herself embroiled in a competitive challenge posed by a mysterious figure on a secluded island, incorporating survival themes reminiscent of popular culture phenomena like Squid Game. With elements of horror intertwined, readers can expect a gripping tale that pushes boundaries.
10 Fagin The Thief By Allison Epstein
Expected Release: February 25th, 2025
In Fagin The Thief, Allison Epstein revitalizes a classic character from Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist, granting Fagin a voice that has been historically marginalized. Epstein’s retelling promises not just to re-contextualize Fagin’s actions but to provide a deeper look into his motivations as a misunderstood figure within a dark world. Recognizable characters such as Bill Sikes and Nancy will also make appearances, enriching this modern interpretation of a timeless tale.
9 Battle Mountain By C.J. Box
Expected Release: February 25th, 2025
C.J. Box’s latest installment in the Joe Pickett series, Battle Mountain, sees the beloved protagonist back in action, solving complex crimes others cannot. The narrative highlights Joe’s ongoing relationship with Nate Romanowski as they navigate the mystery of a missing individual, intertwining their expertise in the natural world with the thrills of the investigation.
8 All The Other Mothers Hate Me By Sarah Harman
Expected Release: March 11th, 2025
Sarah Harman’s debut delves into the intricate web of motherhood through the story of Florence Grimes, a mother who must prove her son’s innocence amid scandal. As she unravels the mystery behind her son’s predicament, the narrative addresses themes of societal expectations and the nuances of parenting, presenting a relatable and authentic protagonist.
7 Kills Well With Others By Deanna Raybourn
Expected Release: March 11th, 2025
Deanna Raybourn returns with Kills Well With Others, a follow-up to her acclaimed Killers of a Certain Age. The beloved quartet, consisting of Billie, Helen, Mary Alice, and Natalie, embarks on a new mission, confronting criminal elements with their unrivaled skills. This installment showcases strong female protagonists battling challenges while subverting typical assassin tropes, making for a thrilling read.
6 Lethal Prey By John Sandford
Expected Release: March 25th, 2025
With Lethal Prey, John Sandford brings another gripping episode to the Lucas Davenport series. This time, Lucas and his partner Virgil Flowers delve into a cold case involving a deeply personal tragedy, as they navigate the waters of true crime and modern sleuthing techniques. This interplay of narrative and reality addresses the public’s growing fascination with crime-solving, providing a unique perspective on the investigative process.
5 The Savage, Noble Death Of Babs Dionne By Ron Currie Jr.
Expected Release: March 25th, 2025
Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Maine, The Savage, Noble Death of Babs Dionne explores themes of family and legacy through the life of Babs, a formidable matriarch entangled in criminal activities. Author Ron Currie Jr. crafts a multi-dimensional narrative that juxtaposes Babs’s ruthless reputation with her roles as a mother and a figure steeped in moral complexity.
4 The Gatsby Gambit By Claire Anderson Wheeler
Expected Release: April 1st, 2025
In The Gatsby Gambit, debut author Claire Anderson Wheeler reimagines the world of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic characters through the lens of Greta Gatsby, Jay’s sister. Readers will be invited into a rich narrative filled with intrigue and violence, set against the backdrop of the roaring twenties. Wheeler’s fresh take on this classic era will both captivate fans of the original and attract newcomers seeking a modern interpretation.
3 The Maid’s Secret By Nita Prose
Expected Release: April 8th, 2025
Nita Prose continues her captivating series with The Maid’s Secret, shifting the focus from murder mystery to a high-stakes heist involving one of Molly’s cherished treasures. Following the success of her earlier entries, this installment further explores themes of love, loss, and sacrifice, promising an emotional and thrilling experience for readers.
2 The Dark Maestro By Brendan Slocumb
Expected Release: May 13th, 2025
Brendan Slocumb’s The Dark Maestro intertwines music with mystery, tracking protagonist Curtis as he navigates the challenges of being a classical musician in a world overshadowed by crime. With themes of identity and systemic barriers within the music industry, Slocumb crafts a narrative that resonates deeply while still delivering a thrilling experience for its audience.
1 Coded Justice By Stacey Abrams
Expected Release: July 15th, 2025
Stacey Abrams, a prominent figure in both politics and literature, continues the Avery Keene series with Coded Justice. This upcoming installment finds the protagonist deep within the political labyrinth of Washington D.C. as she investigates a corporate conspiracy with potential implications for national security. Andrews brings her advocacy and expertise into her writing, tackling crucial contemporary issues like AI technologies, ensuring that readers are engaged in both story and serious discourse.
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