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While many books fall under the category of fiction, when I write about new fiction releases, I’m usually referring to literary fiction, historical fiction, and all kinds of fiction that don’t fit into romance or other genres.

I’ve already shared lists for January, February, and March, so if you’re curious, you can check those out too.

I’m especially excited about this month’s releases because the stories are fresh, fast-paced, and super interesting.

I can’t wait to start reading a lot of them and I will try to post reviews on the blog as soon as I can.

Most Anticipated New Fiction Books Coming Out April 2025

1. Summer Light on Nantucket by Nancy Thayer (April 22nd)

Blythe Benedict’s summer in Nantucket is anything but peaceful.

With her children in full-on teen mode, a secret involving her ex-husband, and a second-chance romance with her first love, Blythe’s island getaway turns into more than she expected.

But surrounded by family, she finds that no challenge is too big to handle, especially when love and support are on her side.

A heartwarming, family-centered story that makes you think about love, life, and the beauty of second chances, this one sounds so fun.

2. The Float Test by Lynn Steger Strong (April 8th)

The Kenner siblings are dealing with big secrets, old grudges, and a lot of drama when they come together in Florida after a huge loss.

Each of them is facing their own personal struggles, but as they try to come to terms with their past, they might just find a way to heal and rebuild their bond.

This one is a gripping story about family, betrayal, and the kind of love that both heals and hurts.

A great read for anyone who enjoys a deep dive into family dynamics and the ties that bind us together!

3. Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez (April 8th)

In this powerful story, Nikki is called to North Carolina by her estranged grandmother, where she finds out secrets about her ancestors and the land they once owned.

As Nikki learns more about her family’s history, she realizes how much is at stake.

This novel touches on identity, legacy, and the strength it takes to fight for what’s yours.

I love the idea of reclaiming what’s lost and finding roots in places you didn’t even know mattered!

4. The Family Recipe by Caroline Huynh (April 1st)

Duc Tran’s quirky inheritance challenge brings his estranged kids to different cities to revitalize their father’s failing sandwich franchise.

Along the way, they deal with love, gentrification, and a few family secrets.

This sounds like such a fun and heartfelt read about family, legacy, and rediscovering roots. Plus, who doesn’t love a good sandwich?

5. The Library of Lost Dollhouses by Elise Hooper (April 1st)

Tildy Barrows, a librarian in San Francisco, discovers hidden dollhouses that hold clues to long-lost histories.

As she decodes the mysteries behind these tiny treasures, she sets out on a journey that reveals stories of remarkable women throughout history.

If you love a mix of history, secrets, and self-discovery, this one’s going to be a captivating read!

6. The Page Turner by Viola Shipman (April 8th)

Emma Page, a romance writer in a family of serious authors, finds inspiration from her grandmother’s romance novels.

When a hidden family secret comes to light, she must choose between exposing the truth and protecting her family’s reputation.

A sweet look at family, creativity, and finding your voice in the face of expectations, I’m so excited to see how Emma embraces her passion for romance writing.

7. Cat’s People by Tanya Guerrero (April 1st)

A stray cat named Cat brings five strangers together in Brooklyn, each of them finding connection and healing in their own way.

It’s a heartwarming tale about love, community, and the unlikely bonds that form when you least expect it.

If you’re into stories about how small moments and connections can change lives, this one’s a must-read.

8. Fun for the Whole Family by Jennifer E. Smith (April 15th)

The Endicott siblings reunite after years of silence, brought together by an unexpected text from their famous actress sister.

As they spend a weekend together, they uncover secrets that could change everything.

And this is the ultimate journey of love, forgiveness, and the kind of family ties that are impossible to break.

Sounds like a perfect read if you’re in the mood for a story that’s both heartwarming and full of surprises!

Must-Read April 2025 Historical Fiction Book Releases

1. The Lilac People by Milo Todd (April 29th)

This is a deeply moving story about Bertie, a trans man in 1930s Berlin, who is forced to hide his identity to survive the rise of the Nazis.

After fleeing to a farm with his girlfriend, he’s determined to protect a young trans man they find at the end of WWII, even from the Allied forces.

It’s an inspiring tale of hope and strength, and I love how it shines light on trans history, which isn’t often talked about. Such an important story.

2. The Pretender by Jo Harkin (April 22nd)

Set in the Tudor era, this historical novel is all about Lambert Simnel, a peasant boy who was believed to be the rightful heir to the throne.

At just ten years old, he is crowned king, but his journey is full of danger and political intrigue.

Along the way, he forms a powerful alliance with Joan, a sharp-witted woman with big dreams.

This story brings history to life with unforgettable characters and a plot full of twists.

If you love historical drama with a dose of adventure, this one’s for you.

3. A Mind of Her Own by Danielle Steel (April 29th)

Alexandra Bouvier’s journey is one of strength and independence as she faces unimaginable losses during World War I and becomes a trailblazer in the field of journalism.

The story is an uplifting exploration of resilience and love, and it’s a great pick for anyone who enjoys deeply emotional stories of personal growth and perseverance.

Danielle Steel’s writing really brings Alex’s struggles and triumphs to life and I’m definitely looking forward to this one.

4. The Eights by Joanna Miller (April 15th)

Set in 1920, this novel follows four women at Oxford University as they manage their studies, personal struggles, and the challenges of being some of the first women admitted.

It’s a powerful story about friendship, courage, and finding your own path in a world that’s changing fast.

I think it’ll be so relatable for anyone who’s ever had to fight for their place in the world.

5. The Mademoiselle Alliance by Natasha Lester (April 8th)

Marie-Madeleine is a Frenchwoman with a flair for adventure, and she’s about to lead one of the largest spy networks in WWII France.

After being recruited by a mysterious man, she juggles a double life, working for the resistance while keeping her true identity a secret.

This gripping historical novel is based on the true story of Marie-Madeleine Fourcade, a remarkable woman who showed incredible courage in the face of danger.

6. Tough Luck by Sandra Dallas (April 29th)

If you enjoy Westerns with heart, Tough Luck will take you on an unforgettable journey.

Haidie Richards, a young woman, sets out to find her father in the Colorado Territory in 1863, and she faces danger and finds strength she didn’t know she had.

Along the way, she forms a quirky band of friends who help her on her journey.

Full of vivid characters and adventure, this one’s perfect for anyone who loves stories about resilience, friendship, and the wild frontier.

7. The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick (April 22nd)

This novel is about four housewives in the 1960s who form a book club after reading The Feminine Mystique, and this sparks a journey of self-discovery and sisterhood.

As they face the changing world around them, they learn to find their voices and support each other in ways they never expected.

This one is a sweet and empowering story about friendship and embracing change.

And, I think it’s such an important read for anyone who’s ever felt stuck or unsure of their place in the world.

Best Literary Fiction Books Coming Out in April 2025

1. Vanishing World by Sayaka Murata (April 15th)

If you’ve loved Sayaka Murata’s unique and thought-provoking books like Convenience Store Woman and Earthlings, you’re in for another wild ride with Vanishing World.

It’s set in a strange version of Japan where sex is considered taboo, and all children are born through artificial insemination.

Amane, who’s troubled by how she was born, tries to escape from this world of strange rules, so she and her husband move to a place called Experiment City, hoping it’ll purify her feelings.

This novel is definitely going to make you think deeply about society, relationships, and personal identity.

2. The Cat Who Saved the Library by Sosuke Natsukawa (April 10th)

In this heartwarming sequel to The Cat Who Saved Books, we’re back with Nanami, a young girl who loves reading, and a talking cat named Tiger.

When books start disappearing from the library, Nanami and Tiger team up to investigate and find out who or what is behind it.

This story leans into how we must always think for ourselves and it’s sweet, uplifting, and definitely makes me smile thinking about it.

3. Rabbit Moon by Jennifer Haigh (April 1st)

Rabbit Moon follows a family that has to face painful truths when their daughter, Lindsey, is seriously injured in a hit-and-run in Shanghai.

As her parents, Claire and Aaron, wait at her bedside, they begin to realize how much their past – especially the shocking event that ended their marriage – has affected their relationship with Lindsey.

It’s a deep, emotional look at family, love, and healing that makes you reflect on how we carry our past with us.

4. When the Harvest Comes by Denne Michele Norris (April 15th)

This debut novel is about Davis, a young Black gay man, who has to face his painful past and his complicated relationship with his father after his father dies unexpectedly.

The prose is stunning and beautiful, and it will make you think about how we are shaped by those who came before us, but also how love can help us move forward.

5. Big Chief by Jon Hickey (April 8th)

Big Chief is a gripping debut set on an Anishinaabe reservation.

Mitch, a young political fixer, is caught in a battle for control of the tribe’s casino and hotel as tensions rise with a powerful activist and former lover.

It’s a compelling story about power, family, and the complicated truths of identity.

6. Audition by Katie Kitamura (April 8th)

Audition is a psychological and emotional deep dive into the lives of two people who meet for lunch in New York City: a talented actress and a young man who might be her son.

This novel explores identity, roles, and the truths that we hide, even from the people closest to us.

It’s a mysterious and intense story that promises to keep you hooked and question everything about human connection.

7. Bad Nature by Ariel Courage (April 1st)

In Bad Nature, Hester, who’s diagnosed with terminal cancer, sets off on a wild road trip across the U.S. to kill her estranged father.

Along the way, she meets an environmental activist, and together, they explore deep questions about life, revenge, and forgiveness.

This one is a darkly funny yet moving tale about how our journeys – and grudges – can change us in unexpected ways.

I’m really curious to see where Hester’s journey leads.

8. Small Ceremonies by Kyle Edwards (April 1st)

This debut novel captures the complexities of life for two Indigenous friends, Tommy and Clinton, as they deal with growing up, their community, and the struggles that come with it.

As the Tigers, their hockey team, faces a crisis, we’re pulled into the lives of many characters, all searching for their place in the world.

This book paints a vivid picture of friendship, identity, and the challenges of navigating a world that doesn’t always seem to care about you.

It’s poignant and powerful, and I think it’s going to stick with me long after I finish it.

I’m really excited about all the great fiction coming out in April 2025, and I hope you are too.

If any of these books caught your eye, don’t forget to mark your calendar.

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