Book Hookup’s reading year has been full of discoveries, and indie authors have truly shined. This list highlights the indie books we read and loved in 2025. While not all of these titles were published this year, each one was part of our 2025 journey — stories that sparked conversation, stirred emotion, and reminded us why supporting independent voices matters. Each one captured my attention with its unique voice, emotional depth, and unforgettable characters. Here’s why they made the list:

Book Hookup's 10 Best Indie Books of 2025

1. A Kestrel Circles by G. Michael Smith
An unpredictable, thrilling ride into the mind of a gifted detective. Mathew Brown’s eccentric brilliance and mental canvas make this story deeply compelling. Smith’s storytelling is nothing short of brilliant.

2. Born on Monday by Richard R. Becker
Set against a historic nor’easter in Maine, this fast-paced thriller delivers nonstop suspense and emotional depth. Becker’s trio of protagonists—Billy, Jessica, and Andrea—are raw, real, and unforgettable.
3. Black, White, and Gray All Over by Frederick Reynolds
A powerful, unflinching memoir that takes readers inside life in law enforcement. Reynolds’ journey from troubled beginnings to hard-earned wisdom is a testament to resilience and integrity.

4. The Cloud by Robert Rivenbark
An edge-of-your-seat thriller that dives into technology and morality with equal intensity. Rivenbark crafts a world that feels eerily close to our own, and I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
5. The Thirty-Fifth Page by Lya Badgley
Poetic, mysterious, and beautifully haunting. This novel intertwines history and myth in war-torn Sarajevo, resurrecting the city and its scars with stunning grace.

6. A Measure of Rhyme by Lloyd Jeffries
A gripping sequel in the Ages of Malice series. Rhyme Carter’s journey from librarian to heroine is thrilling and inspiring, balancing epic stakes with deeply personal dilemmas.
7. Midnight’s Secret by Tom Kane
A WWII thriller that blends historical accuracy with rich character development. Jessie’s mission to uncover a mole in British intelligence leads to betrayal, suspense, and a gripping chase.

8. The Serpent Woman by S.Z. Estavillo
A thought-provoking crime novel with a morally complex killer and emotionally rich characters. Estavillo’s skillful plotting and strong female leads make this a standout in the genre.
9. Miles in Time by Lee Matthew Goldberg
A smart, fast-paced time-travel mystery with heart and imagination. Goldberg nails the emotional complexity of adolescence while keeping the sci-fi elements sharp.

10. Dandelion Serenade by Lori Soard
A quietly enchanting tale of second chances and rekindled romance. Soard’s novella blooms with emotional depth and nostalgic charm, woven with the symbolic thread of the dandelion.

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I focus on clean fiction across genres—historical romance, fantasy, suspense, crime, children’s, and more. When books include content that may not be suitable for all readers, I provide clear disclaimers so you can choose wisely.

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