Notes by Thalia's 11 Best Contemporary Fiction Books To Read In 2025

A curated list of 11 contemporary fiction books recommended by Thalia for self-care and enjoyment in 2025.

Cover of Normal People

Normal People

4.5

A poignant exploration of love, class, and self-discovery, 'Normal People' follows the complex relationship between Connel and Marianne as t…

Cover of It Ends With Us

It Ends With Us

3.8

A heart-wrenching tale of love, loss, and self-discovery as Lily navigates a complex web of relationships and confronts her past.

Cover of Expectation

Expectation

4.0

A poignant exploration of female friendship and the gap between dreams and reality, Expectation follows three women as they navigate the com…

Cover of Apples Never Fall

Apples Never Fall

3.5

In the Delaney family, love and tension collide as a missing mother and a mysterious stranger unravel decades of secrets, testing the bonds …

Cover of This Could Be Everything

This Could Be Everything

4.3

In 1990s London, a grieving young woman finds hope and healing through an unlikely friendship with an escaped canary, while her aunt navigat…

Cover of Ghosts

Ghosts

3.7

Nina Dean, a 32-year-old food writer, navigates the complexities of modern life as she deals with ghosting, her father's dementia, and the p…

This list, compiled by Thalia, features 11 contemporary fiction books that are perfect for incorporating into your self-care routine in 2025. Each book has been carefully selected for its engaging storytelling, complex relationships, and memorable characters. From darkly comedic tales to heart-wrenching love stories, these books offer a diverse range of themes and styles to suit different tastes. Whether you're looking for a gripping page-turner, a poignant exploration of friendship, or a story that will leave a lasting impression, this list has something for everyone. Thalia's recommendations include both critically acclaimed bestsellers and hidden gems, all of which have been personally enjoyed and endorsed by her. So, pick one, carve out some me time, and escape into a world that will stay with you long after the last page.

Source: https://notesbythalia.com/best-contemporary-fiction-books/