Aardvark always feels a little more eclectic, and October could be especially interesting with so many early releases and hidden gems on the calendar. I expect them to continue spotlighting unique debuts, genre-bending stories, and a few picks that are less obvious than the buzzy titles we’re all talking about. Since Aardvark tends to take risks with their selections, I’m predicting a mix of dark, twisty reads and some quieter literary fiction that deserves more attention this spooky season. Also, they tend to have lots of horror reads as well, so expect to see those coming.
Unlike some other book clubs, I feel that Aardvark is a bit more of a wildcard when it comes to their picks. I don’t feel that they ever have a set formula for the genres they pick, but I have noticed the books all tend to have similar ‘vibes’ or similar themes and tones. While they’re also featured some well-known authors, I find that their books tend to be more on the edgy or experimental side and showcase more less known authors. Because of this, I’ve listed my predictions all together instead of breaking them out by genre.
I should have a confirmed spoiler so, if you’re interested in finding out what it is, DM me then on Instagram @speakingof.books.
Whether or not these are actually picks, only time will tell. Even if they are not, all or most of these are on my October 2025 MOST ANTICIPATED list and my Fall 2025 Most Anticipated.
September 2025 MOST ANTICIPATED
October 2025 MOST ANTICIPATED
August 2025 Most Anticipated
SUMMER 2025 MOST ANTICIPATED
Fall 2025 Most Anticipated
When the picks are announced and you find you have space in your box still, make sure to also check reviews of all past Aardvark Books that I’ve read HERE or check out my list of all the 2023 picks I read HERE, because who couldn’t use even more books!
Keep in mind that these are simply predictions and books I hope get chosen. I could get these completely wrong, but the anticipation and guessing is part of the fun right?!
September Predictions
October feels like it could be one of Aardvark’s most eclectic months yet, and this list of likely picks really shows why. Big-name crowd-pleasers like Mate by Ali Hazelwood and Boom Town by Nic Stone would give the lineup instant buzz, while more literary and atmospheric titles like Bog Queen by Anna North, Saltcrop, and Quan Barry’s The Unveiling fit perfectly into the moody, autumnal vibe Aardvark loves for October.
For speculative and SFF fans, Ken Liu’s All That We See or Seem and Christopher Rowe’s The Salvage offer thoughtful, genre-bending stories that balance imagination with strong prose, while Matthew Green’s The Keeper of Magical Things leans more cozy and whimsical, a slot Aardvark almost always fills. To bring in darker seasonal fare, The October Film Hunt by Michael Wehunt and Widow’s Point by Richard Chizmar both capture spooky thrills in very different ways, one cinematic and one classic haunted house.
Meanwhile, The Gallery Assistant promises morally complex characters and book club-ready debates around ambition and art. Together, these books would make for a lineup that blends buzz, atmosphere, and discussion, hitting all of Aardvark’s favorite notes for fall.
Do you think any of these will be picks?
I hope you found a book that you are truly excited about in this post. Let me know which other new releases you are excited for this month or that you’re hoping are Aardvark picks, by commenting below or by messaging me on Instagram @speakingof.books or TikTok @speakingof.books. Don’t forget to follow me to get weekly updates and new reviews!
Happy Reading!
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