The book world has been bustling with activity, from scandals to prize announcements, and a relentless publishing schedule. However, as December arrives, the pace slows, offering a quieter yet intriguing array of new releases. This month, readers can look forward to a diverse selection of books, ranging from Olivia Nuzzi’s headline-grabbing memoir to tales of royal intrigue, outback mysteries, political slang, and insights into China’s espionage tactics. Here’s a closer look at the books that promise to captivate readers as 2025 comes to a close.
Intriguing Insights and Political Commentary
Dirty Politics: A–Z of Trickery, Treachery and Other Tasty Treats by Macquarie Dictionary offers a sharp and witty exploration of the language that has shaped Australian public life over the past two decades. Priced at $19.99, this compendium delves into the euphemisms and gaffes that have become part of the nation’s political lexicon. From terms like “bonk ban” to “virtue signalling soy cap intelligentsia,” the book highlights how language can reveal the nuances of power.
In The Great Heist: China’s Epic Campaign to Steal America’s Secrets, authors David R. Shedd and Andrew Badger, both former intelligence officers, argue that China has orchestrated the largest organized theft of intellectual property and technology in history. Priced at $27.99, the book draws on interviews with spies and policymakers to expose how these actions have reshaped global power dynamics.
Royal Intrigue and Historical Mysteries
The Heir Apparent by Rebecca Armitage, available for $34.99, introduces readers to Lexi Villiers, who is unexpectedly thrust into the line of succession after a family accident. Set against the backdrop of royal drama, this debut novel explores themes of duty and personal desire, making subtle nods to contemporary royal sagas.
Meanwhile, Ian W. Shaw’s The Dark Prince of Melbourne ($35.99) offers a gripping account of Joseph “Squizzy” Taylor, a notorious figure in Melbourne’s underworld. Shaw’s narrative follows Taylor’s rise from a petty criminal to a celebrated gangster, providing a vivid portrait of a man who thrived in the limelight.
Explorations of Nature and Human Experience
Di Morrissey’s The Endless Sky ($39.99) takes readers deep into the Australian outback, where a TV presenter and her producer embark on a journey that uncovers the region’s mysteries and histories. The novel highlights the land as a central character, weaving themes of adventure and friendship into its narrative.
In Eucalyptus by Stephen D. Hopper ($39.99), the botanist provides an illustrated exploration of Australia’s iconic trees. This comprehensive study examines the evolution, cultural significance, and ecological impact of eucalypts, offering readers a blend of scientific insight and cultural history.
Thrilling Tales and Personal Journeys
American Canto by Olivia Nuzzi ($49.99) is set to dominate the news cycle once again. The memoir, which details Nuzzi’s entanglement with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., promises to be both a personal and political narrative, capturing the attention of readers with its blend of high-profile drama and introspective storytelling.
Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino ($34.99) presents a darkly comic thriller centered around the anxieties of real estate. The novel follows Margo, whose obsession with securing her dream home leads her down a path of psychological intrigue and unexpected twists.
Reflections on War and Justice
Geoffrey Robertson’s World of War Crimes ($36.99) serves as a timely guide to understanding what constitutes a war crime and why accountability remains elusive. Drawing on global conflicts and his extensive legal experience, Robertson provides insights into the complexities of international justice.
Brandon Sanderson’s Tailored Realities offers fans a collection of short fiction that spans fantasy and science fiction. This illustrated anthology includes a new novella, Moment Zero, and showcases Sanderson’s versatility as a storyteller.
Finally, On the Edge by Kate Horan ($34.99) revisits a small-town mystery, unraveling the secrets surrounding a teenage girl’s unsolved death. As old suspicions resurface, the novel promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
As the year winds down, these books provide a diverse array of stories and insights, ensuring that readers have plenty to ponder and enjoy during the holiday season.
