Debutiful’s Adam Vitcavage recommends noteworthy debut books for readers to discover each month.
The Edge of Water by Olufunke Grace Bankole (February 4)
From the publisher: Set between Nigeria and New Orleans, The Edge of Water tells the story of a young woman who dreams of life in America, as the collision of traditional prophecy and individual longing tests the bonds of a family during a devastating storm.
I loved going on this journey that was so gorgeously written. Every word is like silk.
The Sleeping Land by Ella Alexander (February 4)
From the publisher: Less than three years after the collapse of the Soviet Union, three archaeology grad students and their enigmatic adviser arrive at a remote cave in the heart of the Siberian wilderness to carry out the first extensive Western dig on Russian soil since the execution of the czar.
A page-turner with a unique setting and plot that will please readers every step of the way. Plus, that cover kills.
Note: The Sleeping Land was Originally scheduled to be published February 4, 2025, but is now scheduled for a March 4, 2025 release date. You can preorder it now.
Loca by Alejandro Heredia (February 11)
From the publisher: If Junot Diaz’s critically acclaimed collection Drown and Janet Mock’s Emmy-winning series Pose produced offspring, Alejandro Heredia’s Loca would be their firstborn.
This was completely enthralling and moving. It pulls back the curtain on young, queer people’s lives and organically allows readers into and beautiful and complicated friendship. A frontrunner for Best of 2025 lists.
Mazeltov by Eli Zuzovsky (February 11)
From the publisher: In a glorious debut, a boy confronts queer lust, shame, the threat of war, and the plague of family on the day he becomes a man
This copy from the publicity pitch hooked me: “On the cusp of manhood–and the verge of a nervous breakdown.” It delivers clever interactions and a series of memorable characters.
Beta Vulgaris by Margie Sarsfield (February 11)
From the publisher: A young woman’s seasonal job working a sugar beet harvest takes a surreal turn in this surprising and vivid debut.
Spellbinding from the get-go. It’s eye-opening, dark, and twisty with a bite.
A Perfect Day to Be Alone by Nanae Aoyama, translated by Jesse Kirkwood (February 11)
From the publisher: The English-language debut of a prize-winning Japanese author, this touching, subtly funny novel evokes the daily struggles and hopes of two women from different generations.
A beautifully written/translated story that will move you to tears.
Ibis by Justin Haynes (February 11)
From the publisher: A bold, witty, magical new voice in fiction, Justin Haynes weaves a cross-generational Caribbean story of migration, superstition, and a search for family in the novel Ibis.
The writing in this book is simply stunning. Haynes has the ability to seamlessly bring together plots and characters and shift ideas with such precision and subtly. By the time you finish this novel, you will feel as if you’ve lived in New Felicity for decades and truly understand generations of characters.
Cosmic Tantrum by Sarah Lyn Rogers (February 18)
From the publisher: A debut full-length poetry collection from Sarah Lyn Rogers rewriting girlhood and summoning mischief
Listening to Sarah Lyn Rogers read from her collection during our Virtual Poetry Night was completely captivating. She explores what girlhood means and how society treats young women with a brilliant eye.
Wolf Act by AJ Romriell (February 18)
From the publisher: Growing up queer and neurodivergent in the Mormon Church
I grew up with a lot of straight-laced Mormon friends, some of which came out as queer later in life, but by that point, I lost touch with them outside of social media. This captivated me in ways I wasn’t prepared for.
What You Make of Me by Sophie Madeline Dess (February 25)
From the publisher: In this mesmerizing debut from a bright new talent, two enigmatic and unforgettable siblings confront what – and who – they’re willing to sacrifice for their art
I am always interested in stories that explore sibling relationships. The dynamics in this book are unfiltered in the best way possible. Dess tackles art, creative drive, and drama with a fresh voice.
Deep Cuts by Holly Brickley (February 25)
From the publisher: Moving from Brooklyn bars to San Francisco dance floors, Deep Cuts examines the nature of talent, obsession, belonging, and above all, our need to be heard.
This is a very specific era (the early-2000s) and hits the tone right on the head. However, its themes are timeless. It is a modern romance filled with brilliant characterization that is fun and gentle with letting people make mistakes. This was so much fun to read.
All Our Tomorrows by Amy Debellis (February 25)
From the publisher: In Amy DeBellis’ debut novel, The Hours meets My Year of Rest and Relaxation as, sometime in the near future, three Gen Z women ride the throes of late capitalist life in New York City.
This is the perfect novel if you hated Lena Dunham’s GIRLS or loved GIRLS. The characters are messy, honest, raw. They’re young and willing to be dumb just before saying and doing the most courageous and “grown-up” thing. DeBellis captured the aspects of youth we’ll be chasing for the rest of our lives with such ease and perfection.