Top 2025 Sci-Fi and Fantasy Picks from Washington Post

We’ve been diving into all the major end-of-year book lists to see which titles stood out in 2025—but most of them have been pretty broad. So it’s time to switch things up and get a little more specific.

Today, we’re breaking down The Washington Post’s best sci-fi and fantasy books of 2025. If you’re a fan of imaginative worlds, futuristic tech, and unforgettable adventures, you’re going to want to stick around for this one.

Sci-fi and fantasy are easily some of my favorite genres, so this is a list I’ve been especially excited to check out. 2025 delivered a ton of incredible releases, and honestly, my TBR just keeps growing. But I’m not complaining.

What I love most about these genres is how they’re always evolving. Every year, new authors step in with fresh ideas, unique worlds, and stories that completely surprise you. I’ve already discovered a few new favorites—and I’m always looking for more.

Let’s take a look at the full list and see which books made the cut.

2025 Sci-Fi and Fantasy Picks

• The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones
• The Incandescent by Emily Tesh
• The King Must Die by Kemi Ashing-Giwa
• Mad Sisters of Esi by Tashan Mehta
• Meet Me at the Crossroads: A Novel by Megan Giddings
• Saltcrop by Yume Kitasei
• Ten Incarnations of Rebellion by Vaishnavi Patel
• Wake the Wild Creatures by Nova Ren Suma
• The Works of Vermin by Hiron Ennes
• You Weren’t Meant to Be Human by Andrew Joseph White

The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones

Stephen Graham Jones is known for blending horror, history, and speculative fiction, and The Buffalo Hunter Hunter is no exception. This novel explores Indigenous history through a supernatural lens, weaving folklore, violence, and survival into a haunting narrative. Jones’s writing is atmospheric and intense, making this a must-read for fans of literary horror and dark fantasy.

The Incandescent by Emily Tesh

Emily Tesh delivers a thought-provoking science fiction novel that examines power, identity, and belief. The Incandescentfollows characters navigating a world shaped by advanced technology and rigid systems, raising questions about freedom and control. Tesh’s elegant prose and emotional depth make this a standout for readers who enjoy character-driven sci-fi.

The King Must Die by Kemi Ashing-Giwa

This genre-blending novel combines science fiction, fantasy, and mystery in a unique and compelling way. The King Must Die follows an investigator uncovering secrets within a powerful system built on exploitation and decay. Ashing-Giwa’s sharp world-building and social commentary make this one of the most talked-about speculative novels of the year.

Mad Sisters of Esi by Tashan Mehta

A richly imagined fantasy inspired by South Asian mythology, Mad Sisters of Esi explores family, power, and rebellion. Mehta creates a vivid world filled with political tension and emotional complexity, making this a great choice for readers who enjoy epic fantasy with deeply personal stakes.

Meet Me at the Crossroads by Megan Giddings

This speculative novel blends sci-fi concepts with philosophical and emotional questions about fate and connection. Giddings crafts a story that feels intimate and expansive at the same time, exploring how small choices can ripple across time and space. It’s a thoughtful read for fans of literary speculative fiction.

Saltcrop by Yume Kitasei

Saltcrop is a science fiction novel that explores labor, survival, and environmental collapse. Yume Kitasei is quickly becoming a fan favorite, and this book showcases her ability to balance big ideas with compelling characters. Her writing feels fresh and urgent, making Saltcrop an easy recommendation for anyone looking to dive into modern sci-fi.

Ten Incarnations of Rebellion by Vaishnavi Patel

Inspired by mythology and history, this fantasy novel reimagines rebellion through multiple lives and identities. Patel blends epic storytelling with themes of resistance, gender, and power, creating a book that feels both timeless and deeply relevant.

Wake the Wild Creatures by Nova Ren Suma

This novel leans into the darker side of fantasy, mixing magical realism with themes of grief, transformation, and belonging. Suma’s lyrical prose and haunting atmosphere make Wake the Wild Creatures a memorable read for fans of emotional and eerie storytelling.

The Works of Vermin by Hiron Ennes

A bold and unsettling sci-fi novel, The Works of Vermin explores body horror, obsession, and the limits of humanity. Ennes isn’t afraid to push boundaries, making this a standout choice for readers who enjoy strange, unsettling, and unforgettable speculative fiction.

You Weren’t Meant to Be Human by Andrew Joseph White

This novel blends horror, sci-fi, and coming-of-age themes into a powerful story about identity and survival. Andrew Joseph White’s writing is raw and emotional, tackling themes of otherness and transformation in a way that resonates long after the final page.

Books I’m Most Excited to Read

I have to admit that I haven’t read any of the books on this list just yet—but that’s about to change. I’ve already added several of them to my to-read list, and over the next few months, I plan on making serious progress.

One book I’m especially excited about is The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones. I’ve heard nothing but praise for Jones’s work, and this feels like the perfect place to start.

I’m also eager to read Saltcrop by Yume Kitasei. Having read one of her previous novels, I know she brings a unique voice and a refreshing perspective to science fiction. If you’re looking for a modern sci-fi novel that feels both thoughtful and accessible, Saltcrop should absolutely be on your reading list.

Conclusion

These are the top picks 2025 sci-fi and fantasy picks from the Washington Post and I can’t wait to read them all. How many of these sci-fi and fantasy books have you read? What other books would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments below. Until next time, happy reading!

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