13 Best Authors to Read in 2025

Discover these thrilling picks from the best authors, as we explore captivating stories that will keep you hooked.
The Name of the Wind coverHaroun and the Sea of Stories coverAmerican Gods cover

Exploring the world of literature can be overwhelming, but fret not! We’ve crafted a list of 13 masterpieces by the best authors. We focused on storytelling, character development, and emotional impact to guide you through our favorite picks. Whether you’re into fantasy, classics, or dystopian tales, you’ll find something special on this list!

On this list:

13 The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

The Name of the Wind cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2007
  • Pages: 722

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An epic fantasy story about Kvothe, a gifted young man who grows up to be the most notorious wizard. Rothfuss crafts a compelling narrative with stunning world-building.

12 Haroun and the Sea of Stories by Salman Rushdie

Haroun and the Sea of Stories cover

  • Genre: Fantasy, Children’s literature
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1990
  • Pages: 216

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This whimsical tale follows Haroun on an adventure to restore the sea of stories. Rushdie’s imaginative journey shows his gift as one of the best authors.

11 American Gods by Neil Gaiman

American Gods cover

  • Genre: Fantasy, Mythology
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2001
  • Pages: 465

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This novel blends Americana, fantasy, and mythology. Gaiman’s storytelling genius paints a vivid picture of gods living among us in modern America.

10 The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

The Catcher in the Rye cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Classic
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1951
  • Pages: 277

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This classic story captures teenage angst as Holden Caulfield roams New York City. Salinger’s unique voice makes it an enduring favorite.

9 The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

The Great Gatsby cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Classic
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1925
  • Pages: 180

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A reflection on the American Dream during the Roaring Twenties. Fitzgerald’s prose captures the era’s glitz and underlying despair.

8 1984 by George Orwell

1984 cover

  • Genre: Dystopian, Science Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1949
  • Pages: 328

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A dystopian novel that warns against totalitarian regimes, Orwell’s 1984 remains a must-read for its eerie relevance today.

7 To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

To Kill a Mockingbird cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Classic
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1960
  • Pages: 281

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A tale of racial injustice in the Deep South, Lee’s novel remains powerful and relevant, showcasing her storytelling mastery.

6 Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice cover

  • Genre: Romance, Classic
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1813
  • Pages: 279

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A classic romance and witty examination of society. Austen’s sharp observation and engaging characters make this a perennial favorite.

5 Moby Dick by Herman Melville

Moby Dick cover

  • Genre: Adventure, Classic
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1851
  • Pages: 585

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Melville’s epic tale of obsession and revenge, featuring the infamous white whale. His vivid descriptions and complex themes have captivated readers for generations.

4 The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Hobbit cover

  • Genre: Fantasy, Adventure
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1937
  • Pages: 310

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Bilbo Baggins goes on an unexpected journey in this prelude to The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien’s imagination and storytelling skill make him one of the best authors.

3 The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Adventure
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1988
  • Pages: 163

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A philosophical tale of self-discovery, following Santiago’s quest for treasure. Coelho’s simple prose and life lessons made this book a global phenomenon.

2 The Road by Cormac McCarthy

The Road cover

  • Genre: Dystopian, Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2006
  • Pages: 287

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A harrowing post-apocalyptic journey of a father and son. McCarthy’s sparse, haunting prose evokes a bleak yet moving narrative.

1 A Song of Ice and Fire: A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

A Song of Ice and Fire: A Game of Thrones cover

  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1996
  • Pages: 694

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A complex world of political intrigue, power struggles, and myth. Martin’s intricate plotting and immersive narrative earn him a place among the best authors.

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!