2025 Reading Goals: The Best Fiction for Fantasy Lovers and Thriller Fans
A new year brings new opportunities to dive into captivating stories that spark your imagination, quicken your pulse, and keep you turning pages late into the night. Whether you’re drawn to the magic and wonder of fantasy or the edge-of-your-seat suspense of thrillers, 2025 has some fantastic reads waiting for you.
At I Was Today Years Old, we’re all about helping you find books that resonate with your personality and passions. Here’s our curated list of the best fiction for fantasy enthusiasts and thriller aficionados in 2025.
Fantasy Favorites to Fuel Your Imagination
1. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Why It’s Great: Enter a world of dragons, romance, and high-stakes battles.
Perfect For: Fans of Game of Thrones and epic fantasy adventures.
2. A Day of Fallen Night by Samantha Shannon
Why It’s Great: This prequel to The Priory of the Orange Tree offers deep world-building and gripping characters.
Perfect For: Readers who love intricate plots and powerful storytelling.
3. The Shadow of the Gods by John Gwynne
Why It’s Great: A Norse-inspired epic featuring vengeance, mythology, and unforgettable characters.
Perfect For: Those who crave gritty, action-packed fantasy.
4. The Atlas Paradox by Olivie Blake
Why It’s Great: The sequel to The Atlas Six dives deeper into magical academia and morally complex characters.
Perfect For: Fans of dark academia with a fantasy twist.
5. Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree
Why It’s Great: A cozy fantasy tale about an orc leaving the battlefield to open a coffee shop.
Perfect For: Readers looking for feel-good, low-stakes fantasy.
Thrillers to Keep You on the Edge of Your Seat
1. A Slow Fire Burning by Paula Hawkins
Why It’s Great: A dark, twisty tale of murder and hidden secrets.
Perfect For: Fans of psychological thrillers like Gone Girl.
2. The Last House on Needless Street by Catriona Ward
Why It’s Great: A mind-bending thriller that keeps you guessing until the last page.
Perfect For: Readers who enjoy intricate, multi-layered mysteries.
3. The Maidens by Alex Michaelides
Why It’s Great: A dark academia thriller that combines murder, mythology, and psychological suspense.
Perfect For: Fans of The Silent Patient and campus-based mysteries.
4. The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles
Why It’s Great: Blends history and intrigue in a story of resistance, love, and secrets during WWII.
Perfect For: Historical thriller enthusiasts.
5. The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich
Why It’s Great: A suspenseful story inspired by true events, blending mystery and heart.
Perfect For: Readers who enjoy thrilling yet deeply emotional tales.
Setting Your 2025 Reading Goals
Create a Balance: Mix lighthearted fantasy with high-stakes thrillers for variety.
Set a Schedule: Aim for one book a month to stay consistent.
Reflect and Share: Join a book club or share reviews with friends to discuss your favorite reads.
Final Thoughts
2025 is the year to escape into magical worlds, unravel suspenseful mysteries, and get lost in unforgettable stories. These books offer the perfect blend of wonder and adrenaline, ensuring there’s something for every type of reader.
At I Was Today Years Old, we’re here to guide you to the best reads that align with your vibe and goals.
Which book will you start with? Let us know in the comments below! 📚✨