5 Books by Black Women to Look Forward to in 2025
As we step into 2025, the literary world has an exciting lineup of books by Black women authors who continue to redefine storytelling with boldness, creativity, and unique perspectives.
From deeply personal stories to explorations of societal and cultural themes, these books promise to resonate with readers seeking authentic voices. Here are five books to add to your 2025 reading list.
1. Necessary Fiction by Eloghosa Osunde
Set in the vibrant and chaotic landscape of Lagos, Nigeria, Necessary Fiction introduces readers to a cast of characters who are queer, non-binary, trans, and poly, living unapologetically while searching for identity, connection, and family. Osunde, known for her evocative writing, pushes the boundaries of narrative structure and conventional storytelling to create a world that feels both familiar and transformative.
Osunde, who gained widespread recognition for her debut novel Vagabonds!, has described Necessary Fiction as her most personal and courageous work yet. This novel not only explores what it means to belong but also challenges societal norms with honesty and heart. Expect a story that will move you, provoke deep reflection, and inspire courage.
Release Date: July 22, 2025.
2. The Catch by Yrsa Daley-Ward
The Catch marks Yrsa Daley-Ward’s fiction debut, following her acclaimed poetry and memoir works. The novel tells the story of twins Clara and Dempsey, whose lives are disrupted when a woman resembling their long-lost mother reappears. What follows is a profound journey through identity, trauma, and the truths that shape the people we become.
Daley-Ward, celebrated for her ability to blend vulnerability with strength, explores themes of motherhood, sisterhood, and healing. Readers can expect beautifully poetic prose and a narrative that dives deep into the human experience. This novel is poised to be a standout for fans of both literary fiction and character-driven stories.
Release Date: June 3, 2025.
3. Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor
Nnedi Okorafor’s Death of the Author offers a unique metafictional exploration of art, fame, and identity. The novel follows a disabled Nigerian-American writer whose life changes overnight after her sci-fi novel becomes a bestseller. As the world tries to define her work and her identity, the protagonist grapples with the tension between ownership of her story and the narratives imposed by others.
Okorafor, known for her groundbreaking works in Africanfuturism, brings her signature style of blending reality with speculative elements to this deeply introspective novel. Expect a sharp critique of the publishing industry, along with reflections on race, gender, and creativity. It’s a must-read for fans of thought-provoking and genre-bending fiction.
Release Date: January 14, 2025.
4. Dream Count by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
After nearly a decade away from long-form fiction, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie returns with Dream Count, a novel that explores the intertwined lives of four women navigating love, ambition, and societal expectations. Adichie’s gift for storytelling shines through as she crafts characters whose struggles and triumphs will resonate with readers from all walks of life.
Adichie, renowned for modern classics like Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah, continues to explore themes of gender, power, and identity. Dream Count promises a rich and layered narrative that questions how women dream, love, and redefine themselves in a world that often seeks to constrain them.
Release Date: March 4, 2025.
5. Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson
Charmaine Wilkerson, the bestselling author of Black Cake, returns with Good Dirt, a novel that unearths family secrets against the backdrop of legacy and loss. When a daughter from a wealthy Black family begins to investigate the mysterious death of her brother, a cherished heirloom becomes the key to uncovering long-buried truths.
Wilkerson’s ability to weave multi-generational narratives makes Good Dirt a highly anticipated release. It’s a story about grief, redemption, and the complexity of familial ties. Readers can expect a richly atmospheric novel filled with emotional depth and suspense, delivering a narrative that stays with you long after the final page.
Release Date: January 28, 2025.
These forthcoming books continue that legacy, offering stories that are rich, bold, and unapologetic. Whether you’re seeking personal narratives, cultural critiques, or powerful fiction, these works promise to inspire, provoke, and connect readers worldwide.
Make sure to keep an eye on these titles in 2025—your bookshelf will thank you!
