Best Relationships Books May 2025

Will Grayson, Will Grayson

Two teens named Will Grayson collide in a chance encounter that changes both their lives. One, depressed and closeted, finds unexpected connection. The other, struggling with his larger-than-life best friend Tiny Cooper, discovers new perspectives on friendship and love. Their intertwining stories unfold with humor, heart, and raw honesty, capturing the rollercoaster of adolescence. Green and Levithan’s collaborative novel pulses with authentic teen voices and the messy, beautiful journey of self-discovery.

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.

Carrie Soto Is Back

Carrie Soto’s return to tennis is a rollercoaster of emotions. As I devoured this book, I felt her determination and vulnerability. Reid’s vivid prose transported me courtside, the tension palpable with each serve. Carrie’s journey of self-discovery resonated deeply, reminding me of my own struggles with perfectionism. The complex relationships, especially with her father, added layers of depth. A gripping tale of ambition, love, and redemption that kept me up way past my bedtime.

More Than Words

Jill Santopolo’s “More Than Words” is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and self-discovery. Nina Gregory, heir to a New York hotel empire, grapples with her father’s death and the secrets it unveils. As she navigates her grief, Nina finds herself torn between two men: her childhood friend and her charismatic boss. Santopolo’s lyrical prose weaves a tapestry of emotion, inviting readers to ponder the weight of family expectations and the courage it takes to forge one’s own path. A heartfelt journey that lingers long after the final page.

Paris for One

Nell’s carefully planned weekend getaway to Paris crumbles when her boyfriend fails to show. Stranded alone in the City of Light, she reluctantly embraces the unexpected. As she wanders cobblestone streets and charming cafés, Nell discovers a side of herself she never knew existed. A chance encounter with a handsome Frenchman sparks a whirlwind romance, challenging her notions of love and adventure. Moyes weaves a delightful tale of self-discovery, reminding us that sometimes the best journeys are the ones we never planned.

Winter in Paradise

Irene Steele’s idyllic life in Iowa City is shattered when she learns her beloved husband, Russ, has died in a helicopter crash in the Caribbean. Shocked and grief-stricken, she travels to St. John with her sons to unravel the mystery of his death. As they navigate the sun-drenched island, they uncover secrets that challenge everything they thought they knew about Russ. Hilderbrand’s vivid prose brings the lush landscape to life, while her deft storytelling keeps readers guessing until the very end. A perfect escape for those dreaming of tropical beaches and family drama.

28 Summers

Mallory Blessing’s life changes forever when she inherits her aunt’s beachfront cottage in Nantucket. There, she meets Jake McCloud, sparking a passionate connection that endures for decades. Their secret rendezvous, held one weekend each summer, become a cherished tradition. As life unfolds around them, with marriages, careers, and families, Mallory and Jake’s bond remains unbreakable. Hilderbrand’s poignant tale explores the bittersweet nature of love, timing, and the choices that shape our lives. A captivating read that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you pondering the power of enduring romance.

Fates and Furies

Lotto and Mathilde’s marriage seems perfect from the outside, a union of two beautiful, talented individuals destined for greatness. But beneath the surface lies a complex web of secrets, ambitions, and hidden truths. Groff’s masterful prose weaves through their entwined lives, revealing the stark differences in their perspectives. As the years unfold, we witness the power of perception and the lengths we go to protect those we love. A haunting exploration of marriage, identity, and the stories we tell ourselves to survive.

The House We Grew Up In

Nestled in the Cotswolds, the Picture-Perfect House holds secrets that span generations. As the Bird family gathers for Easter, long-buried tensions resurface, threatening to shatter their idyllic facade. Through laughter and tears, we witness the unraveling of carefully constructed lies and the strength of familial bonds. Jewell’s masterful storytelling weaves a tapestry of love, loss, and redemption, leaving readers questioning the true meaning of home and the power of forgiveness. A poignant exploration of family dynamics that will linger in your thoughts long after the final page.

The Road Less Traveled

Peck’s timeless masterpiece delves into the heart of human growth, offering profound insights on love, discipline, and spiritual evolution. Through personal anecdotes and psychological wisdom, he challenges readers to embrace life’s difficulties as opportunities for self-discovery. His warm, conversational tone makes complex ideas accessible, inviting us to embark on a transformative journey of self-reflection. A thought-provoking guide that continues to resonate, inspiring countless individuals to forge their own path to fulfillment and meaningful existence.