Best Books to Read on Kindle Unlimited (2025)

Nora Reed

person holding black Amazon Kindle E-Book reader inside tent at daytime

Kindle Unlimited offers readers access to a vast library of books across various genres. This subscription service allows book lovers to explore new stories without paying for each title individually. The service has grown in popularity as more readers seek affordable ways to feed their reading habits.

Finding quality books on Kindle Unlimited can save readers hundreds of dollars while introducing them to authors and series they might otherwise miss. While the catalog includes thousands of titles, knowing which books are worth your time can be challenging. Many well-known authors like Kristin Hannah have works available on the platform, alongside popular titles such as “What Alice Forgot” and “Big Little Lies” that have captivated readers worldwide.

1: What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarty

“What Alice Forgot” by Liane Moriarty is a captivating novel that follows the journey of Alice Love, a woman who experiences memory loss after a fall at the gym. Alice wakes up thinking she’s 29 years old, madly in love with her husband, and expecting her first child.

In reality, Alice is 39, in the middle of a bitter divorce, and has three children she doesn’t remember. This dramatic memory gap forces her to confront how much her life and personality have changed over the decade she can’t recall.

The book explores themes of identity, relationships, and the choices we make that shape our lives. Alice must piece together what happened during those lost years and decide if she likes the person she has become.

Moriarty crafts a story that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. Readers find themselves wondering how their own younger selves would view their current lives.

The novel blends humor with poignant moments as Alice navigates her complicated relationships. Her interactions with her estranged husband, her children, and her sister reveal the complex web of her life.

Available on Kindle Unlimited, this book is perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven stories with emotional depth. Moriarty’s writing style makes it easy to get lost in Alice’s world.

The premise asks a question many of us consider: what would happen if we were visited by our younger selves? Would we be proud of our choices or would we want a do-over?

“What Alice Forgot” has received praise for its engaging storytelling and relatable characters. It stands as one of Liane Moriarty’s most beloved works among her impressive collection of bestselling novels.

Readers appreciate how the book balances lighter moments with serious examination of life’s pivotal moments. It encourages reflection without becoming overly heavy.

For Kindle Unlimited subscribers looking for a meaningful yet accessible read, “What Alice Forgot” delivers an experience that stays with you long after the final page.

2: The Hypnotist’s Love Story by Liane Moriarty

Available on Kindle Unlimited, “The Hypnotist’s Love Story” offers readers a captivating blend of romance and psychological intrigue. Liane Moriarty, the bestselling author of “Big Little Lies,” brings her signature storytelling style to this compelling novel.

The book follows Ellen O’Farrell, a professional hypnotherapist who falls for Patrick, a man with an unusual complication in his life. Patrick has a stalker – his ex-girlfriend Saskia who has been following him for years.

What makes this story unique is that Moriarty doesn’t just tell it from Ellen’s perspective. Readers also get inside the mind of Saskia, creating a nuanced portrait of obsession and human connection.

The novel explores relationships in all their complexity. Ellen must navigate her growing feelings for Patrick while dealing with the knowledge that his ex-girlfriend is constantly watching them.

Moriarty’s writing shines with sharp observations and touches of humor. She manages to address serious topics while maintaining an engaging, accessible style that keeps readers turning pages.

Critics have praised the book for its emotional intelligence. O, The Oprah Magazine called it a “sharp and funny romantic tale,” highlighting Moriarty’s skill at balancing lighter moments with deeper themes.

For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book represents excellent value. Moriarty’s storytelling abilities make this more than just a standard romance novel – it’s a thoughtful exploration of human psychology.

The characters feel authentic and three-dimensional. Ellen’s profession as a hypnotherapist adds an interesting layer to the narrative, allowing for insightful moments about how people perceive themselves and others.

Fans of Moriarty’s other works will recognize her talent for creating memorable female characters who defy simple categorization. The book avoids predictable plot developments, instead offering surprising turns that feel both unexpected and inevitable.

The novel is perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven stories with psychological depth. It balances entertainment with thoughtful examination of relationships, making it an ideal choice for book clubs or individual enjoyment.

3: The Husband’s Secret by Liane Moriarty

Liane Moriarty’s “The Husband’s Secret” stands as a compelling thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. This #1 New York Times bestseller weaves together the lives of three seemingly unconnected women whose paths eventually cross in unexpected ways.

The story centers around Cecilia Fitzpatrick, who discovers a letter from her husband meant to be opened only after his death. Her decision whether to read it sets off a chain of events that affects not only her life but those of others in her community.

Moriarty expertly crafts complex characters who feel remarkably real. The book explores themes of marriage, secrets, and the ripple effects of our decisions on others.

What makes this novel particularly engaging is how it balances emotional depth with page-turning suspense. Readers will find themselves questioning what they would do in similar situations.

The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, giving readers insight into each character’s thoughts and motivations. This approach creates a rich tapestry of storytelling that keeps the pages turning.

Available on Kindle Unlimited, “The Husband’s Secret” offers a perfect blend of domestic drama and mystery. The writing style is accessible yet thought-provoking, making it an ideal choice for book clubs or personal reading.

Moriarty’s talent for combining humor with serious topics shines throughout the novel. She manages to address weighty moral questions while maintaining moments of lightness.

The Australian setting provides a fresh backdrop for this international bestseller. Moriarty brings her homeland to life with subtle details that enhance rather than distract from the central plot.

For fans of character-driven fiction with unexpected twists, “The Husband’s Secret” delivers on all fronts. The book raises questions about truth, forgiveness, and whether we ever truly know the people we love.

4: Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

Liane Moriarty’s “Big Little Lies” stands out as one of the most captivating reads available on Kindle Unlimited. This page-turner explores the complex lives of three women connected through their children’s elementary school.

The story takes place in a seemingly perfect coastal town where appearances are deceiving. Beneath the polished surface of school functions and playdates lie dark secrets that gradually unravel throughout the narrative.

Moriarty expertly weaves together themes of domestic abuse, friendship, and parenting struggles. Her characters feel authentic and relatable despite their flaws and mistakes.

The novel begins with a mysterious death at a school fundraiser. Readers are then taken back in time to discover the events leading up to this tragedy. This structure creates suspense that keeps readers engaged until the final revelation.

Madeline, Celeste, and Jane form the heart of the story. Each woman carries her own burden while navigating the competitive world of elementary school politics. Their friendship develops organically and provides emotional depth to the plot.

The author’s sharp observations about parenthood and marriage add realism to the storytelling. She captures the small moments of joy and frustration that define family life.

Moriarty also tackles serious issues with sensitivity and insight. The book explores how domestic violence can exist behind closed doors in seemingly perfect homes.

The writing style remains accessible despite addressing complex topics. Moriarty balances humor with heartbreak, creating a reading experience that feels both entertaining and meaningful.

For Kindle Unlimited subscribers seeking a book that combines mystery, drama, and social commentary, “Big Little Lies” delivers on all fronts. The digital format works well for this novel, making it easy to carry this compelling story wherever you go.

The book’s popularity led to an acclaimed television adaptation, but the original text offers nuances and details that enhance the overall story. Readers will find themselves emotionally invested in these characters’ lives from the first chapter.

5: Truly Madly Guilty by Liane Moriarty

Liane Moriarty’s “Truly Madly Guilty” is a captivating addition to Kindle Unlimited that examines the complexities of friendship and family. This #1 New York Times bestseller comes from the same author who brought readers “Big Little Lies,” which later became a hit HBO series.

The novel focuses on three seemingly happy families whose lives intersect at a neighborhood barbecue. What starts as a casual get-together spirals into an event that changes everyone involved. Moriarty masterfully builds tension by hinting at the barbecue disaster while keeping readers guessing about what actually happened.

The story alternates between the present and the day of the barbecue. This clever structure keeps readers engaged as they piece together clues about the mysterious incident that has affected all the characters so deeply.

Moriarty’s character development shines in this novel. She creates relatable, flawed people who struggle with guilt, responsibility, and the consequences of their actions. Each character deals with the aftermath in their own way, revealing deeper truths about human nature.

The author’s razor-sharp observations about suburban life and relationships make this book especially engaging. She explores how well we truly know our friends and partners, and what happens when unexpected events force us to confront uncomfortable truths.

“Truly Madly Guilty” tackles serious themes including marriage difficulties, parenting challenges, and the burden of secrets. Yet Moriarty balances these heavier elements with moments of humor and genuine warmth.

Kindle Unlimited subscribers will appreciate the immersive reading experience this novel provides. At over 400 pages, it offers substantial value while remaining accessible thanks to Moriarty’s straightforward writing style.

For fans of domestic dramas with psychological depth, this book delivers a satisfying reading experience. The compelling mystery at its center will keep readers turning pages until the final revelation.

6: American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins

American Dirt tells the powerful story of Lydia Ortiz and her young son Luca, who are forced to flee their comfortable life in Acapulco, Mexico. After a drug cartel kills their entire family, they embark on a dangerous journey to reach the United States. This #1 New York Times bestseller and Oprah Book Club selection has sold over three million copies.

Cummins crafts a heart-racing narrative that keeps readers on edge throughout. The novel follows Lydia, a bookstore owner who must transform from an ordinary mother into a resourceful survivor. Her determination to protect her son drives her to face unimaginable challenges.

The Kindle Unlimited version delivers the full experience of this gripping tale. Readers will find themselves completely immersed in the perilous world Lydia and Luca must navigate. The digital format allows for convenient reading of this page-turner anywhere.

The relationship between mother and son forms the emotional core of the story. Their bond strengthens as they face dangerous terrain, unreliable companions, and the constant threat of being caught. Each obstacle tests their resilience in new ways.

Critics have praised the novel for its intense pacing and emotional impact. The story raises important questions about migration, survival, and the lengths people will go to for safety. These themes remain relevant in today’s world.

For Kindle Unlimited subscribers looking for a book that combines suspense with emotional depth, American Dirt delivers. The novel creates a vivid portrait of the migrant experience while maintaining the tension of a thriller. Readers will find it difficult to put down once they start.

7: Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

Catching Fire is the exciting second book in Suzanne Collins’ Hunger Games trilogy. This dystopian novel picks up a few months after the events of the first book, following Katniss Everdeen’s journey after her victory in the Hunger Games.

Many readers consider Catching Fire to be even better than the first book. The story feels more mature while expanding on the fascinating world that Collins created. The characters develop in meaningful ways throughout the narrative.

Available on Kindle Unlimited, this book continues to captivate readers with its blend of action, politics, and personal struggle. Katniss and Peeta must deal with the consequences of their actions in the arena while facing new challenges from the Capitol.

The book explores themes of rebellion, sacrifice, and loyalty in a way that resonates with readers of all ages. Though written for young adults, the story tackles complex issues that make it appealing to older readers as well.

Collins’ writing style remains engaging and accessible, making it easy to get lost in the story. The plot moves at a brisk pace, with enough twists to keep readers guessing about what will happen next.

For those who enjoyed the first Hunger Games book, Catching Fire is an essential follow-up that deepens the story. It sets the stage perfectly for the trilogy’s conclusion while standing strong as its own compelling narrative.

8: Angelfall by Susan Ee

Angelfall is a thrilling post-apocalyptic novel that stands out among Kindle Unlimited offerings. Set six weeks after angels descend to destroy the modern world, this book combines supernatural elements with gritty survival horror.

The story follows seventeen-year-old Penryn, who will do anything to rescue her younger sister after she’s taken by warrior angels. Her determination drives her through a dangerous landscape where street gangs control daylight hours and fear rules the night.

Susan Ee creates a dark and twisted version of Northern California as the backdrop for this adventure. Penryn’s journey takes her toward San Francisco, where the angels have established their stronghold.

What makes this book special is how it flips typical angel mythology on its head. These aren’t benevolent guardians but frightening beings who have brought about the end of the world as we know it.

The book is the first in the Penryn & the End of Days series. It offers a fresh take on supernatural fiction by combining elements of horror, adventure, and even a touch of romance.

Readers who enjoy stories about determined protagonists facing impossible odds will find themselves quickly invested in Penryn’s mission. Her character is resourceful and brave without seeming unrealistic.

The pacing keeps readers engaged, with enough action to drive the plot forward while still developing the characters and world. This balance makes it hard to put down once you start reading.

For Kindle Unlimited subscribers looking for an immersive fantasy experience with apocalyptic themes, Angelfall delivers an engaging reading experience that will likely have you reaching for the sequel.

9: The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

The Handmaid’s Tale stands as one of the most compelling offerings available on Kindle Unlimited. Margaret Atwood’s dystopian classic takes readers into the Republic of Gilead, a totalitarian society formed in what was once the United States.

The story follows Offred, a Handmaid whose sole purpose is to bear children for elite couples who cannot conceive. Through her eyes, we experience the horrors of a world where women have been stripped of their rights and reduced to their reproductive functions.

Atwood’s writing style keeps readers engaged throughout the narrative. The prose flows effortlessly, making this thought-provoking book difficult to put down despite its challenging themes.

The novel brilliantly blends elements of speculative fiction with commentary on real-world issues. Its exploration of gender politics, religious extremism, and environmental devastation remains as relevant today as when it was first published.

For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book represents exceptional value. The digital edition preserves all the power of Atwood’s storytelling while offering the convenience of instant access.

The book’s popularity has only increased with the successful television adaptation. However, the original text provides a richer, more nuanced experience that explores the interior life of its protagonist in ways the screen version cannot match.

Kindle readers particularly appreciate the ability to highlight and save meaningful passages. Atwood’s text is filled with quotable insights about power, resistance, and human resilience.

The digital format also makes it easier to navigate between chapters and access the book’s appendix, which provides crucial context for understanding the novel’s complex world-building.

10: The Empyrean by Rebecca Yarros

The Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros has taken the reading world by storm. This romantasy series features books like “Fourth Wing” and “Iron Flame” that have dominated Amazon’s Kindle bestseller lists.

The series follows twenty-year-old Violet Sorrengail as she enters Basigath war college. Readers are drawn into a world of danger, magic, and unexpected romance that keeps pages turning late into the night.

What makes this series special is how it blends fantasy elements with romantic storylines. The books have become so popular that many readers claim they’ve “wrecked” other books for them – meaning it’s hard to enjoy other stories after experiencing this series.

The third book in the series, “Onyx Storm,” was released earlier this year. All three books currently top Amazon’s Kindle best-seller charts, showing just how popular the series has become.

For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this series represents excellent value. The engaging storylines and well-developed characters make it a standout choice for fantasy lovers who enjoy romantic elements in their reading.

Fans of the series are already looking forward to future releases. According to the search results, there appears to be a release scheduled for January 2025, giving readers something to look forward to.

The Empyrean series works well for readers who enjoy immersive worlds and character-driven plots. Yarros has created a universe that readers find hard to leave, which explains the series’ consistent popularity on Kindle Unlimited.

For anyone looking for an engaging fantasy series with romantic elements, The Empyrean offers exactly what you’re seeking. Its popularity speaks to the quality of the storytelling and character development throughout the books.

Benefits of Reading on Kindle Unlimited

Kindle Unlimited offers readers a convenient way to enjoy books without breaking the bank. The service provides excellent value through its extensive collection and affordable pricing structure.

Access to a Vast Library

Kindle Unlimited subscribers gain immediate access to an impressive catalog of over three million titles. This massive collection includes various genres and formats, not just limited to novels and nonfiction books.

The service features thousands of audiobooks, comics, and magazines alongside traditional ebooks. This variety allows readers to explore different content formats based on their preferences or needs.

Subscribers can discover new authors and genres without the financial risk of purchasing unknown books. This freedom to explore makes Kindle Unlimited particularly valuable for avid readers who enjoy trying different types of content.

The library is continuously updated with new titles, ensuring subscribers always have fresh reading material. This constant renewal keeps the reading experience exciting and engaging.

Cost-Effectiveness

At a flat monthly subscription rate, Kindle Unlimited provides significant savings for regular readers. The service eliminates the need to purchase individual books, which can quickly add up in cost.

Subscribers who read just a few books per month typically recoup their subscription fee. Those who read more extensively will see even greater financial benefits compared to buying books separately.

The service allows readers to borrow up to ten titles simultaneously. This generous borrowing limit ensures subscribers always have something new to read without additional costs.

Kindle Unlimited also offers a risk-free trial period for new users to test the service. This trial allows readers to determine if the subscription aligns with their reading habits before committing financially.

Types of Books Available on Kindle Unlimited

Kindle Unlimited offers a vast selection of books across numerous genres, including both exclusive titles and popular publications. Subscribers can access over a million ebooks and thousands of audiobooks for a monthly fee.

Genres and Categories

Kindle Unlimited features books in nearly every major category. Fiction options include thrillers, romance, science fiction, fantasy, and mystery novels. Literary fiction and contemporary works are available alongside classics.

For non-fiction readers, the service offers biographies, memoirs, self-help, business books, and educational content. According to search results, Arts & Photography and Computers & Technology sections are also well-represented.

Children’s eBooks and Comics & Graphic Novels have dedicated sections with diverse titles. Young adult fiction is particularly strong on the platform, with popular series like The Hunger Games available to subscribers.

The service also includes many cookbooks, travel guides, and special interest publications that cater to specific hobbies and activities.

Exclusive Titles and Authors

Kindle Unlimited features many Amazon-exclusive books that aren’t available through other subscription services. These include works from Amazon Publishing imprints like Thomas & Mercer (thrillers) and Montlake (romance).

Recent top exclusive recommendations include titles like “Phantom,” “Gravewater Lake,” and “All the Missing Pieces.” Many independent authors choose to publish exclusively through Kindle Unlimited, making it the only subscription service where readers can access their work.

The platform highlights both established and emerging authors. Some bestselling authors have select titles available through the service, while others make their entire catalog accessible to subscribers.

Finding these exclusive gems can require some exploration, as users note the vast library can be “difficult to navigate” without guidance or recommendations.

Can I find critically acclaimed nonfiction books on Kindle Unlimited?

While Kindle Unlimited is stronger in fiction offerings, the service does include select nonfiction titles. Biography, self-help, and history categories are represented in the catalog. The nonfiction selection tends to rotate, so availability changes periodically. Users looking specifically for critically acclaimed nonfiction might need to search more carefully through the available options.

What are the highest-rated books currently on Kindle Unlimited?

Liane Moriarty’s works consistently receive high ratings from Kindle Unlimited readers. “What Alice Forgot” maintains excellent reviews for its thought-provoking premise and character development. “Big Little Lies” also maintains high ratings both from critics and everyday readers. Its popularity increased further after the television adaptation. The service allows readers to see average star ratings before selecting a book.

Are there any recent award-winning books included with Kindle Unlimited?

Kindle Unlimited usually has a variety of award-winning titles. However, some of the most recent major literary prize winners may not be available right away.

You can also find books that received genre-specific awards in the catalog. These include mystery, science fiction, and romance genre awards, rather than major literary prizes.

The selection of award-winning books changes as publishers adjust which titles they include in the Kindle Unlimited program.