Best Literary Fiction Books April 2025

The Sandman: Season of Mists

Gaiman’s masterful storytelling shines in this haunting installment of The Sandman series. As Morpheus returns to Hell to free a former lover, he finds the realm abandoned, thrust into a cosmic power struggle. With lyrical prose and intricate world-building, Gaiman weaves a tale of responsibility, redemption, and the weight of ruling. The vivid artwork brings the surreal dreamscapes to life, leaving readers spellbound. A must-read for fantasy lovers and newcomers alike.

The Sandman: The Doll’s House

Delving into the surreal world of dreams, Gaiman’s “The Sandman: The Doll’s House” weaves a haunting tapestry of fantasy and horror. Following the enigmatic Morpheus, readers are drawn into a realm where nightmares walk and desires take physical form. As I turned each page, I found myself captivated by the intricate plot and richly drawn characters. Gaiman’s masterful storytelling left me pondering the nature of reality long after I’d closed the book. A truly unforgettable journey through the human psyche.

The Sandman: Preludes & Nocturnes

Dive into the dark, mesmerizing world of Neil Gaiman’s “The Sandman: Preludes & Nocturnes.” This haunting graphic novel introduces us to Morpheus, the Lord of Dreams, as he escapes decades of imprisonment. Weakened and seeking vengeance, he embarks on a quest to reclaim his stolen objects of power. Gaiman’s lyrical prose and evocative storytelling weave a tapestry of mythology, horror, and fantasy that will linger in your mind long after you’ve turned the final page. A must-read for anyone craving a journey into the realms of imagination and nightmare.

The Silkworm

Cormoran Strike returns in this gripping sequel, delving into the cutthroat world of publishing. When a controversial novelist vanishes, Strike and his assistant Robin unravel a twisted tale of jealousy and revenge. As they navigate London’s literary circles, they encounter eccentric characters and dark secrets. Galbraith’s sharp prose and intricate plotting keep you guessing until the very end. A thrilling mystery that’ll have you burning the midnight oil.

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

The Girls in the Garden

Nestled behind a London square, a communal garden becomes the backdrop for dark secrets and tangled relationships. When a young girl is found unconscious after a midsummer night’s party, the idyllic facade crumbles. Jewell weaves a gripping tale of family dynamics, teenage angst, and hidden truths. With her signature blend of suspense and heart, she explores the complexities of trust and the shadows that lurk in even the sunniest of places. A page-turner that will keep you guessing until the very end.

The Making of Us

In “The Making of Us,” Lisa Jewell weaves a poignant tale of three strangers bound by an unexpected connection. As they grapple with their own personal struggles, a chance discovery leads them on a journey of self-discovery and family. Jewell’s masterful storytelling had me hooked from the first page, her characters so vivid I felt I knew them. This book touched my heart, reminding me of the power of human connection and the unexpected ways our lives can intertwine. A truly unforgettable read that left me pondering long after I turned the final page.

The Third Wife

In this gripping psychological thriller, Lisa Jewell weaves a tangled web of secrets and lies. When Adrian’s third wife is found dead, the cracks in his seemingly perfect family begin to show. As the truth unravels, we’re drawn into a world of hidden motives and buried resentments. Jewell’s masterful storytelling keeps you guessing until the very end, with characters so real you can almost touch them. I couldn’t put it down, staying up way too late just to see how it all unfolds. A must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery with a dash of family drama.

The Truth About Melody Browne

Melody Browne’s life changed forever when she was nine years old. The happy memories of her childhood vanished, leaving her with no recollection of her early years. Now, at thirty-three, a mysterious invitation awakens long-buried secrets. As fragments of her past resurface, Melody embarks on a journey of self-discovery, unraveling the truth about her family and the fire that stole her memories. Jewell’s poignant storytelling weaves a tapestry of love, loss, and redemption, reminding us that sometimes, the most profound truths lie hidden within our own hearts.

Code Name Helene

In “Code Name Helene,” Ariel Lawhon weaves a gripping tale of Nancy Wake, a fearless WWII spy. I was captivated by Nancy’s transformation from glamorous socialite to ruthless resistance fighter. Lawhon’s vivid prose transported me to war-torn Europe, where I felt the weight of Nancy’s dangerous missions. The blend of romance and espionage kept me on edge, and I found myself holding my breath during close calls. A powerful tribute to an unsung heroine that left me in awe of her courage.