Canadian Books Coming Out in May 2025
Widows and Orphans by Elizabeth Renzetti & Kate Hilton
Widows and Orphans delivers a compelling murder mystery set against the backdrop of a wellness retreat gone wrong. Journalist Cat Conway finds herself investigating the death of one of the retreat's founders, a high-profile influencer, and things get complicated fast. Not only are the suspects a juicy mix of jealous partners and Instagram-famous types, but Cat's own best-selling author mother is also on the list, harbouring secrets of her own.
While navigating this small-town crime, Cat is also fighting to save her struggling newspaper, The Quill & Packet, from going under amidst protests against her reporting. This book promises a suspenseful read with a determined female lead balancing a tricky investigation and the potential loss of her livelihood. If you enjoy unravelling secrets and a good whodunit with local flavour, this should definitely be on your TBR pile.
Arriving May 1st, 2025
Published by House Of Anansi Press Inc
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Detective Aunty by Uzma Jalaluddin
Here's another one for your list: Detective Aunty by Uzma Jalaluddin sounds super intriguing! When Kausar Khan's daughter is arrested for the murder of her landlord, this charming and persistent widow steps in to find the real killer. It's the start of a new cozy mystery series, and it's set in the Golden Crescent suburb of Toronto, which Kausar hasn't been back to in years.
As she investigates with the help of her old friends and her clever teenage granddaughter, Kausar quickly realizes that this murder is just the latest in a string of unsolved local crimes. Even though the evidence against her daughter looks pretty damning, Kausar's gut tells her there's more to the story. Get ready for secrets, lies, and betrayals as this "meddlesome aunty" uses her sharp wit and life experience to uncover the truth.
If you're into whodunits with a strong family element and a unique detective, you'll really want to check this out!
Arriving May 6th, 2025
Published by HarperCollins
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One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune
After a life-changing summer at her grandmother's cottage, photographer Alice returns to Barry's Bay with her injured Nan, seeking solace.
Their peace is disrupted by the reappearance of Charlie Florek, one of the teenagers from a pivotal photo Alice took years ago.
Now a charming man, Charlie rekindles Alice's memories and stirs unexpected feelings within her, as she realizes he sees her in a way no one else ever has.
Arriving May 6th, 2025
Published by Penguin Canada
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Riding the High: A Silver Pines Novel by Paisley Hope
Next up is Riding the High: A Silver Pines Novel by Paisley Hope, and this one sounds like a fun, slightly chaotic ride! Cole Ashby, the new sheriff of Laurel Creek and a dedicated single dad, is all about proving he's responsible and building a stable life for his daughter. Ginger Danforth, a teacher and the daughter of a congressman, appears to have it all together but secretly craves some adventure.
Things take a wild turn when these longtime friends head to Vegas and, after a few too many drinks, end up married! Since an immediate annulment isn't an option, they decide to keep their accidental marriage a secret for ninety days. But when Ginger starts helping Cole with his daughter over the summer, spending more and more time together makes their fake marriage start to feel surprisingly real. This sounds like a charming and funny story about unexpected connections and maybe finding love in the most unplanned way.
If you're into sweet and slightly steamy small-town romances with a fun twist, this could be your next read!
Arriving May 6th, 2025
Published by Penguin Canada
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Austen at Sea by Natalie Jenner
Prepare for a literary adventure with Austen at Sea! It's 1865, and you've got two pairs of siblings who are obsessed with Jane Austen. In Boston, Charlotte and Henrietta Stevenson, tired of the limited options for women, start secretly writing to Austen's last living brother, Sir Francis. He's in England and sends them an original letter, inviting them for a visit!
Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, bachelor brothers and rare book dealers Nicholas and Haslett Nelson are also chatting with Sir Francis, who's promised them a super rare, never-before-seen Austen artifact to check out.
So, the Stevenson sisters sneak off to England (no chaperone) and guess who's on the same ship? The Nelson brothers, Louisa May Alcott, a wealthy senator's daughter with her sights set on the brothers, and a last-minute, slightly unwanted chaperone. This voyage and trip to England sounds like it's going to be life-changing for everyone involved, all thanks to their shared love of literature and the enduring magic of Jane Austen.
If you're a Jane Austen fan who loves a historical setting with a touch of mystery and the promise of transformation, this one's calling your name.
Arriving May 6th, 2025
Published by St. Martin's Publishing Group
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A Curse Carved in Bone: Book Two of the Saga of the Unfated by Danielle L. Jensen
Following the events of A Fate Inked in Blood, shield maiden Freya now knows the secret of her divine heritage, a revelation that could lead to immense destruction. Desperate to change this dark future, she makes a risky alliance with Skaland’s greatest enemy to seek answers from the seer who foretold her path, the same one who sent Bjorn to kill her.
Despite her lingering anger over Bjorn’s betrayal, magical blood oaths demand she keep him near as she searches for a way to prevent the approaching war. Her magic draws her into an ancient conflict, connecting her with Nordeland’s Unfated, children of the gods serving the king she once feared, who is now willing to fight by her side. However, the intense connection between Freya and Bjorn is threatened by his growing distrust of her choices.
As war looms, both gods and mortals prepare for battle, but Freya’s greatest fight is internal. With the power of two goddesses within her, she must weave her own destiny: will she be her people's shield or their downfall?
Expect a thrilling mix of fantasy romance, high-stakes action, and compelling choices.
Arriving May 13th, 2025
Published by Random House Worlds
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No One Was Supposed to Die at this Wedding by Catherine Mack
Here's another one that sounds like a blast: No One Was Supposed to Die at this Wedding by Catherine Mack! This is the second book in a witty series following author Eleanor Dash, and this time, she's headed to her best friend's wedding on Catalina Island. Now, you'd think a wedding would be drama-free, but for Eleanor, murder seems to be the ultimate plus-one.
Her bestie, Emma Wood, who's starring in the movie adaptation of Eleanor's book, is marrying Fred Winters, a major movie star who also happens to be playing Eleanor's ex in the film. The whole cast and crew are invited to the wedding, but things take a dark turn when Emma gets a note saying, "Someone is going to die at the wedding."
Of course, Eleanor, being practically a pro at solving these things by now, jumps into action to find the killer so true love can win out. But with a storm rolling in and the wedding party trapped, she's got to figure things out fast.
If you love a funny cozy mystery with a touch of Hollywood glamour and a determined amateur sleuth, this sounds like the perfect escape!
Arriving May 13th, 2025
Published by St. Martin's Publishing Group
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The Summers Between Us by Noreen Nanja
This novel revisits a deep connection formed in childhood between Lia Juma and Wesley Forest during memorable summers at Pike Bay. However, the complexities of life intervened, and ten years ago, familial obligations and heartbreak sent them on different paths.
Today, Lia has constructed the life of a dutiful daughter, achieving success as a corporate lawyer and involved with someone who meets all her mother's expectations. Yet, a long-held secret from her past simmers beneath the surface. When circumstances compel her return to her family's summer cottage, the carefully built structure of her present begins to fall apart.
Returning to Pike Bay awakens forgotten memories, with Wesley at their center. As they find themselves in each other's orbit once more, old hurts and affections resurface, forcing them to confront the decisions and concealed truths that shattered their young romance. Lia now faces a crucial question: can she mend the wounds of the past and finally embrace the life and love she has always longed for? Weaving between past summers and one significant present summer, this story explores whether a second chance with Wesley is worth risking everything she has built.
If you appreciate second-chance stories that delve into cultural pressures, hidden secrets, and the lasting impact of first love, this could be a deeply moving read.
Arriving May 13th, 2025
Published by Random House Of Canada
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Canada's Main Street: The Epic Story of The Trans-Canada Highway by Craig Baird
Canada’s Main Street by Craig Baird dives into the overlooked but totally fascinating history of the Trans-Canada Highway, a 7,000-kilometre stretch that quite literally connects the country. If you love Canadian history or a good road trip story, this one’s for you.
Baird, the voice behind Canada’s top history podcast, shares how this massive project went from a dream to a coast-to-coast highway. It’s got everything: political drama, construction chaos, and the kind of cultural impact that makes it way more than just a way to get from A to B.
From pre-war dirt roads to a national landmark that played a role in everything from summer vacations to Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope, this is a slice of Canadian nonfiction that feels both nostalgic and eye-opening.
If you're curious about the history behind Canada's infrastructure and the stories embedded in its roads, this book promises a compelling journey.
Arriving May 13th, 2025
Published by Sutherland House Books
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Wood, Fire & Smoke: Recipes and Techniques for Wood-Fired Cooking by Michael Smith
Wood, Fire & Smoke by Michael Smith is a must-read if you're into bold flavours, backyard cooking, or just love a good excuse to be outside. With over 80 wood-fired recipes, this cookbook is more than just grilling. Think smoking, roasting, spit-cooking, and more, all with rich, smoky depth you can't get from a stovetop.
Michael Smith, a celebrated chef and fire-cooking pro, teaches you how to build and manage real cooking fires, from campfires to wood ovens, while serving up recipes like smoked ribs, ember-roasted steak, fire-kissed broccoli salad, and even campfire marshmallows. It's part cookbook, part crash course in live-fire cooking, and totally perfect for anyone wanting to level up their outdoor meals.
Arriving May 13th, 2025
Published by Penguin Canada
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New Canadian Books of 2025 by Month
- January - February - March - April - May - June - July - August - September - October - November - December -