Best Contemporary Books April 2025

The Witch of Portobello

“The Witch of Portobello” weaves a mesmerizing tale of Athena, a mysterious woman born in Transylvania, abandoned at birth, and raised in Beirut. Through a tapestry of voices, Coelho unravels her extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. As Athena’s story unfolds, we’re drawn into a world of ancient wisdom, modern-day mysticism, and the eternal search for meaning. It’s a book that lingers in your thoughts, challenging perceptions and stirring the soul. I found myself captivated by Athena’s raw energy and the way Coelho brings her unconventional path to life.

The Tower of Nero

Lester Papadopoulos, once the mighty Apollo, faces his final trial in this heart-pounding conclusion to Rick Riordan’s thrilling series. As I turned each page, I found myself holding my breath, caught up in the witty banter and nail-biting action. Riordan’s masterful blend of mythology and modern-day humor shines through, making me laugh and gasp in equal measure. It’s bittersweet to say goodbye to these beloved characters, but what a journey it’s been! A must-read for demigods and mortals alike.

The Tyrant’s Tomb

In “The Tyrant’s Tomb,” Rick Riordan plunges readers back into the world of demigods and ancient prophecies. Apollo, still trapped in his mortal teenage form, faces his most harrowing challenge yet. As he grapples with the loss of a dear friend, he must confront a terrifying Roman emperor risen from the dead. With his signature blend of humor and heart-pounding action, Riordan weaves a tale that had me on the edge of my seat, laughing one moment and holding my breath the next. It’s a rollercoaster ride I couldn’t put down.

The Burning Maze

Dive into the heart-pounding third installment of Rick Riordan’s Trials of Apollo series. As Lester Papadopoulos (aka the fallen god Apollo), I face my most dangerous challenge yet in the Labyrinth. With old friends and new allies, I must navigate treacherous mazes, battle fearsome monsters, and confront a ruthless Roman emperor. The stakes are higher than ever, and time is running out. Will I regain my godly powers, or is this the end of the line? Trust me, you won’t be able to put this one down.

The Son of Neptune

Percy Jackson wakes up with no memory, thrust into a world of Roman demigods. As he struggles to regain his identity, he’s swept into a dangerous quest with new friends Hazel and Frank. Together, they face mythical monsters and uncover a plot that threatens both the mortal and godly realms. Riordan’s witty prose and clever twists on classical mythology make this a thrilling adventure that will keep readers guessing until the very end. A perfect blend of humor, heart, and heroism.

The Border Trilogy

Cormac McCarthy’s “The Border Trilogy” is a haunting masterpiece that lingers in the mind long after the final page. Set against the stark beauty of the American Southwest, these interconnected novels follow young cowboys as they navigate a world both brutal and breathtaking. McCarthy’s sparse prose cuts to the bone, painting vivid landscapes and complex characters with unflinching honesty. I found myself lost in the rhythm of his words, feeling the dust and desperation of a vanishing way of life. A profound meditation on love, loss, and the human spirit.

The Big Short

In “The Big Short,” Michael Lewis takes us on a riveting journey through the 2008 financial crisis. With his trademark wit and insight, Lewis introduces a cast of eccentric outsiders who saw the impending disaster before anyone else. From a one-eyed hedge fund manager to a neurotic genius, these unlikely heroes bet against the housing market and won big. Lewis’s storytelling is so engaging, you’ll find yourself rooting for these underdogs while simultaneously feeling outraged at Wall Street’s greed. A must-read for anyone curious about how a few saw what others missed.

The Elephanta Suite

Theroux’s masterful triptych delves into the complexities of modern India through the eyes of three American travelers. With vivid prose and keen insight, he explores the cultural clashes and unexpected connections that arise as his characters navigate bustling Mumbai, a remote ashram, and a call center in Bangalore. Theroux’s nuanced portrayal of both visitors and locals captures the contradictions and allure of a rapidly changing nation, leaving readers with a haunting sense of the transformative power of travel.

Kingdom by the Sea

Theroux’s “Kingdom by the Sea” is a captivating journey around the British coastline, blending keen observations with wry humor. As he meanders through seaside towns, the author paints vivid portraits of eccentric locals and forgotten landscapes. I found myself chuckling at his dry wit and marveling at his ability to uncover hidden gems. It’s a delightful read that made me yearn for my own coastal adventure, fish and chips in hand.

Ghost Train to the Eastern Star

Theroux’s captivating travelogue retraces his epic journey from thirty years ago, weaving through Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia. With his keen eye for detail and wry humor, he reflects on the changes—both subtle and stark—that have transformed these lands. From bustling bazaars to remote villages, Theroux’s encounters with locals and fellow travelers paint a vivid portrait of cultures in flux. His introspective musings on aging and the passage of time add a poignant layer to this already rich narrative.