Amidst a challenging year, many sought refuge in literature, with notable titles emerging as favorites in 2025. Among them is Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy, which intricately weaves a personal tale against the backdrop of climate crisis. The narrative centers on a father and his three children on a remote Antarctic island, safeguarding a seed bank from impending disaster. Their lives change when a woman named Rowan arrives, bringing both healing and hidden connections to the island's troubled past.
Another standout is Moonflow by Bitter Karella, described as a chaotic blend of humor and horror. This novel features dual narratives: one follows Sarah, a trans woman and mushroom dealer, while the other explores the henchwomen of a bizarre cult residing in a cursed forest. Sarah's quest for a mystical mushroom known as the King's Breakfast leads to unexpected chaos, creating a gripping and unconventional reading experience.