35 Must-Read BookTok Books
Are you ready to dive into the world of BookTok, where avid readers and literary enthusiasts unite to share their latest and greatest book discoveries?
From heart-wrenching romances to mind-bending thrillers, BookTok has become a vibrant online community on TikTok, influencing readers around the globe.
In this list, we have compiled some must-read books that have captured the imagination and hearts of BookTokers all around the globe.
Whether you’re a seasoned bibliophile or just looking for your next great read, these books are guaranteed to enthrall, inspire, and transport you to a world that you would love.
Let’s begin.
35 Must-Read BookTok Books
“The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller
“The Song of Achilles” is a captivating retelling of the ancient Greek story of Achilles, a legendary warrior, and Patroclus, an exiled prince. This novel reimagines their relationship as a deep, romantic bond that defies the expectations of their time.
Set against the backdrop of the Trojan War, Miller’s writing brings a fresh perspective to this classic tale, delving into themes of love, fate, and the struggles of gods and heroes.
“They Both Die at the End” by Adam Silvera
Adam Silvera’s “They Both Die at the End” is a heart-wrenching novel that explores the final day in the lives of two boys, Mateo and Rufus.
In a world where people receive a phone call on the day they will die, these two strangers connect through an app designed to help people live their last day to the fullest. This poignant story delves into themes of friendship, love, and making the most of the time we have.
“A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas
Sarah J. Maas’s “A Court of Thorns and Roses” is a thrilling fantasy series that blends elements of romance and action in a richly imagined world. The story follows Feyre, a young huntress who is drawn into the magical lands of the Fae after a fateful encounter.
As she navigates the politics and power struggles of this new world, Feyre finds love, confronts ancient curses, and uncovers her own strength and destiny.
“The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This novel tells the mesmerizing story of Evelyn Hugo, a reclusive Hollywood movie icon, who decides to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life to an unknown magazine reporter, Monique Grant.
The narrative takes readers through the decades of Evelyn’s career and her tumultuous personal life, including her seven marriages. It’s a tale of ambition, love, and the allure of the limelight, with unexpected twists.
“Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston
Casey McQuiston’s “Red, White & Royal Blue” is a charming and uplifting romance between Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry of Wales.
What begins as a rivalry turns into a secret and profound love, challenging both their personal beliefs and the expectations placed on them by their families and nations. This book is a delightful blend of humor, love, and political intrigue.
“The Cruel Prince” by Holly Black
“The Cruel Prince” by Holly Black is set in the treacherous and alluring world of faeries.
The story follows Jude, a mortal girl living in the High Court of Faerie, as she navigates its dangerous political landscape. Despite being despised by many faeries, including the cruel Prince Cardan, Jude is determined to secure her place in this world. This dark and enchanting tale weaves together themes of power, betrayal, and ambition.
“We Were Liars” by E. Lockhart
“We Were Liars” is a suspenseful and haunting novel that focuses on the wealthy, seemingly perfect Sinclair family and their summers spent on a private island.
The story is narrated by Cadence, who suffers from amnesia after a mysterious accident.
As she tries to piece together her memories, the novel gradually reveals dark truths about her family and the cost of their lifestyle. It’s a gripping story about love, loss, and the lies we tell ourselves.
“It Ends with Us” by Colleen Hoover
Colleen Hoover’s “It Ends with Us” is a deeply moving and powerful contemporary romance that tackles the complex subject of domestic violence. The story follows Lily Bloom as she navigates her relationship with the charming neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid.
As Lily’s past resurfaces and challenges her present, the novel explores the resilience of the human spirit and the difficult choices that come with breaking cycles of abuse.
“Shatter Me” by Tahereh Mafi
“Shatter Me” is the first book in Tahereh Mafi’s dystopian series, featuring a young woman named Juliette with a lethal touch. Set in a crumbling world under a repressive regime, Juliette is seen as both a weapon and a threat.
The series blends elements of romance and science fiction as Juliette discovers her own strength and the role she plays in the fight against oppression. Mafi’s unique writing style, characterized by poetic prose and striking metaphors, adds depth to this gripping tale.
“Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo
“Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo is an enthralling heist story set in the richly imagined world of the Grishaverse. The novel follows a band of outcasts led by the cunning Kaz Brekker as they undertake an impossible heist.
With high stakes and a reward too tempting to ignore, this diverse group of criminals must learn to work together despite their mistrust and secrets. Bardugo weaves a tale of intrigue, action, and complex characters in a world where magic and danger are intertwined.
“The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” by V.E. Schwab
V.E. Schwab’s “The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” tells the story of a young woman, Addie LaRue, who makes a Faustian bargain to live forever. However, the twist in her immortality is that she is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets.
Spanning centuries and continents, the novel explores Addie’s journey as she strives to leave her mark on the world and the unexpected relationship she develops when, after 300 years, someone finally remembers her name.
“The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern
“The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern is a captivating love story set against the backdrop of a magical, mysterious circus that appears without warning and is open only at night.
The novel follows Celia and Marco, two young magicians pitted against each other in a magical competition by their guardians. As their lives intertwine with the circus, their game of skill and imagination turns into a deep love that affects the fate of everyone connected to the circus.
“Daisy Jones & The Six” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
“Daisy Jones & The Six” is a unique rock ‘n’ roll novel by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Told in an interview format, it chronicles the rise and fall of a fictional 70s rock band led by the charismatic Daisy Jones and the enigmatic Billy Dunne.
The book captures the essence of the music scene of that era, delving into the complexities of relationships, fame, and the creative process. It’s a compelling story of passion, music, and the challenges of collaboration.
“Circe” by Madeline Miller
In “Circe,” Madeline Miller reimagines the story of Circe, a sorceress from Greek mythology.
The novel presents Circe as a complex character, exploring her journey from an outcast in her father’s house to a powerful witch living in exile on the island of Aiaia.
Through her interactions with famous mythological figures, the book delves into themes of transformation, power, and identity. Miller’s lyrical prose brings a fresh, human perspective to this ancient tale.
“The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne
“The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne is a delightful workplace romance novel filled with witty banter and charming chemistry. It follows Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman, two executive assistants thrown into a rivalry as they compete for a promotion.
Their constant games and one-upmanship evolve into a romantic tension that challenges their initial perceptions of each other. This lighthearted and playful novel explores themes of love, competition, and the fine line between love and hate.
“Normal People” by Sally Rooney
“Normal People” by Sally Rooney is a profound and intimate novel that delves into the complexities of love and relationships.
It tells the story of Connell and Marianne, who start a secret relationship in high school and continue to weave in and out of each other’s lives through college.
Rooney’s exploration of their individual growth and emotional connection presents a raw and realistic look at how people change and grow together and apart over time.
“Ugly Love” by Colleen Hoover
“Ugly Love” by Colleen Hoover is a heart-wrenching novel about the complexities of love and heartbreak. The story follows Tate Collins and airline pilot Miles Archer as they agree to a no-strings-attached relationship.
As Tate develops deeper feelings, Miles’ past prevents him from returning them. This emotionally charged novel explores themes of love, loss, and the healing power of relationships, all while navigating the pain of past traumas.
“The Shadows Between Us” by Tricia Levenseller
“The Shadows Between Us” by Tricia Levenseller is often described as a “Slytherin romance.” This fantasy novel centers around Alessandra, who is determined to woo the Shadow King, marry him, and then kill him to take the kingdom for herself.
However, her plans get complicated as she starts falling for him. Set in a richly built world with intriguing court politics, this novel is a tale of ambition, love, and betrayal, with a strong, cunning female protagonist at its core.
“Legendborn” by Tracy Deonn
“Legendborn” by Tracy Deonn is a compelling modern fantasy that reimagines Arthurian legends in a contemporary setting. The story follows Bree Matthews, a young woman who, after a personal tragedy, discovers a secret society of “Legendborn” students at her university who descend from King Arthur’s knights.
As she delves deeper into this world, Bree confronts magic, demons, and hidden truths about her own family’s past. Deonn’s novel is a unique blend of fantasy, mystery, and a quest for identity and justice.
“The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood
“The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood is a delightful romantic comedy set in the world of academia.
The novel centers around Olive Smith, a Ph.D. student who doesn’t believe in lasting romantic relationships but needs to convince her best friend otherwise.
She impulsively kisses the first man she sees, who turns out to be Adam Carlsen, a young hotshot professor. What starts as a fake dating arrangement blossoms into something more, offering a charming exploration of love, science, and unexpected connections.
“Beach Read” by Emily Henry
“Beach Read” by Emily Henry is a heartwarming romance novel about two authors with contrasting writing styles.
January Andrews, a romance writer, and Gus Everett, a literary fiction author, find themselves living next door to each other. Both are suffering from writer’s block, and they decide to challenge each other by swapping genres. As they spend the summer teaching one another, their rivalry turns into a deep understanding and affection.
This novel is a celebration of love, literature, and the healing power of writing.
“The Gilded Wolves” by Roshani Chokshi
“The Gilded Wolves” by Roshani Chokshi is a captivating historical fantasy set in 1889 Paris.
The story revolves around Séverin Montagnet-Alarie, a wealthy hotelier and leader of a group of talented individuals. They are drawn into a heist by the promise of a powerful artifact.
Blending magic, history, and diverse cultures, Chokshi crafts a rich world of intrigue and opulence, where secrets lie hidden in every shadowy corner of the Parisian elite.
“These Violent Delights” by Chloe Gong
Chloe Gong’s “These Violent Delights” is a gripping retelling of Romeo and Juliet set in 1920s Shanghai. The story reimagines the star-crossed lovers as heirs of rival gangs.
Juliette Cai, from the Scarlet Gang, and Roma Montagov, of the White Flowers, must set their grudges aside to solve a series of mysterious deaths plaguing the city.
This novel is a stunning blend of historical fiction, romance, and fantasy, exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of love.
“From Blood and Ash” by Jennifer L. Armentrout
“From Blood and Ash” by Jennifer L. Armentrout is a captivating fantasy romance involving vampires, gods, and other mythical creatures.
The story follows Poppy, who is chosen to be the Maiden and awaits a fate filled with restrictions until the Ascension. Her life changes when she meets Hawke, a guard with mysterious intentions.
This novel is an enthralling mix of forbidden love, intrigue, and a protagonist grappling with destiny and desire.
“The Guest List” by Lucy Foley
“The Guest List” by Lucy Foley is a suspenseful murder mystery set on a remote island during a glamorous wedding.
The story is told from multiple perspectives, revealing secrets and tensions among the guests and the wedding party. When a murder occurs, everyone becomes a suspect.
Foley masterfully creates a tense, claustrophobic atmosphere, where past grievances and hidden motives come to light, leading to a shocking revelation.
“One of Us is Lying” by Karen M. McManus
“One of Us is Lying” by Karen M. McManus is a gripping young adult mystery that unfolds when five high school students walk into detention, but only four walk out alive.
The story is told from the perspectives of the four students, each harboring their own secrets. As the investigation unfolds, they become suspects in the murder of their classmate.
This novel is a compelling blend of intrigue, suspense, and the complex dynamics of high school life.
“Mexican Gothic” by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
“Mexican Gothic” by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a chilling gothic horror novel set in the 1950s in Mexico.
The story follows Noemí Taboada, a glamorous debutante who goes to the Mexican countryside to rescue her cousin, who claims her husband is trying to kill her. Noemí encounters the eerie High Place, a house filled with disturbing secrets and haunted by both the living and the dead.
Moreno-Garcia weaves a tale of dark fantasy, twisted family histories, and ancient mysteries, enveloped in a haunting, atmospheric setting.
“Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman
“Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman is a heartwarming and humorous novel revolving around a failed bank robbery.
When a would-be bank robber bursts into an open house and takes a group of strangers hostage, the situation spirals into an unexpected and quirky standoff. As the hostages’ stories unfold, the novel explores their anxieties, secrets, and connections.
Backman weaves a tale of human folly and compassion, showcasing how the most desperate moments can bring out the best in people.
“Project Hail Mary” by Andy Weir
From the author of “The Martian,” Andy Weir’s “Project Hail Mary” is a science fiction adventure set in space.
The story centers on Ryland Grace, the sole survivor on a desperate, last-chance mission to save Earth from an extinction-level threat. With no memory of his past and only his ingenuity to rely on, Grace must piece together the mission’s purpose and how to complete it.
The novel combines hard science with thrilling suspense, offering a journey of discovery, survival, and the enduring power of friendship.
“The Atlas Six” by Olivie Blake
“The Atlas Six” by Olivie Blake is a dark academia novel centered around six magical candidates selected for the opportunity to join the secretive Alexandrian Society.
These candidates, each a uniquely talented magician, must compete to secure a place within the Society. The novel delves into themes of ambition, power, and knowledge as the characters navigate alliances, betrayals, and their own dark pasts.
Blake creates a world where magic and intellect intertwine, resulting in a compelling and cerebral narrative.
“Verity” by Colleen Hoover
“Verity” is a gripping romantic thriller by Colleen Hoover with an unexpected twist. The story follows Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer who takes a job to complete the remaining books of successful author Verity Crawford, who is unable to write due to an injury.
While at Verity’s home, Lowen discovers a manuscript of an autobiography with horrifying admissions.
The novel combines elements of romance, psychological suspense, and dark truths, leading to a shocking conclusion.
“Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman
“Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman is a charming and poignant story about an unusual heroine named Eleanor Oliphant.
Eleanor struggles with social skills and tends to say exactly what she’s thinking. Her life changes when she and a co-worker, Raymond, help an elderly man who has fallen.
This leads to a journey of self-discovery, healing from a traumatic past, and the development of meaningful relationships.
Honeyman’s novel is a touching exploration of loneliness, friendship, and the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
“A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” by Holly Jackson
“A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” by Holly Jackson is a young adult mystery thriller that follows high school student Pippa Fitz-Amobi as she investigates a closed murder case for her final year project.
Five years ago, a girl named Andie Bell was murdered by Sal Singh, or so everyone in town believes. Pippa, unconvinced by the official story, delves into the case, uncovering secrets and lies that challenge the town’s perception of truth and justice.
Jackson’s novel is a compelling, twisty tale that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
“The Sun is Also a Star” by Nicola Yoon
Nicola Yoon’s “The Sun is Also a Star” is a young adult romance that explores fate, destiny, and the interconnectedness of lives.
The story centers on Natasha, a girl who believes in science and facts, and Daniel, a poetic soul, who meet and fall for each other over one magical day in New York City. Natasha is fighting her family’s deportation to Jamaica, while Daniel is struggling to meet his Korean parents’ expectations.
This novel is a thought-provoking exploration of love, family, and the universe’s mysterious ways.
“The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang
“The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang is a unique and heartwarming romance novel featuring diverse characters.
The story introduces Stella Lane, a successful mathematician with Asperger’s, who feels inexperienced in romantic relationships.
She hires Michael Phan, an escort, to teach her about dating and intimacy. What starts as a transactional relationship evolves into something more profound and genuine.
Hoang’s novel is a refreshing take on love and relationships, breaking stereotypes and highlighting the importance of understanding and empathy.
