You’ve most likely stumbled across the online community known as ‘Booktok’, where many novels have gone viral after creators suggest them. Whether it’s romance, fantasy, or literary fiction, Booktok never fails to push out new, exciting book recommendations. Unfortunately, sometimes it’s hard to tell which books are actually worth purchasing and reading. As an avid reader, I’m here to tell you about five Booktok reads that are legitimately worth the hype!
Six Of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
One of my favorite books ever, Six of Crows is a popular book that is part of Leigh Bardugo’s “Grishaverse”: a fantasy universe where some people are born with powers (Grisha) and others aren’t. This young adult fantasy novel follows six talented, yet eccentric, teenage criminals as they attempt to pull off the largest heist of their lives. With five different POV’s, an endless amount of witty banter, and three blooming romances, this book is an ultimate page-turner. Bonus: If you end up loving it, you can read the sequel, Crooked Kingdom.
The POppy War by R.F. Kuang
I still can’t believe this was R.F. Kuang’s first book as the characters, world-building, and writing in this high fantasy novel are extraordinary. Rin, the main character, is a phenomenal powerhouse who won’t let anyone or anything stop her from achieving her goals. Inspired by real-life events, this novel combines war, magic, and unbreakable bonds (romantic & platonic) into one outstanding piece of work. I do suggest that you look up trigger warnings before picking up this book but, if you read it, I guarantee you’ll get sucked into the intense, outstanding world that Kuang created.
An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
If you’re someone who’s trying to get into fantasy, this book is for you. As the first of four books, this young adult fantasy novel follows main character, Laia, on her journey to becoming a spy and infiltrating a high-security academy. Did I mention that she falls in love with a soldier at the academy and starts a forbidden romance with him? If that’s not enough to hook you in, I don’t know what is! Tahir writes her world in a way that’s easy to understand, making this book great for fantasy beginners. If you’re like me and are a sucker for complex, gritty female characters, you’re going to love this one!
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
You’ve definitely heard of this book if you’re on Booktok — and for good reason. Another one of my ultimate favorites as Jenkins Reid takes the reader along for a ride with this incredible contemporary/historical story about the life of (fictional) Hollywood star Evelyn Hugo (and the seven men she married along the way). Reid’s writing is so charismatic and raw — this book will definitely tug at your heartstrings; it’s the kind of book that makes you want to sit and stare at a wall for half an hour after finishing it.
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
An adorable LGBTQ+ rom-com! If you’re looking for a funny, wholesome book with banter, tension, and slight politics, Red, White & Royal Blue needs to be on your shelf. This novel follows the secret romance between the President of the United States’ son, Alex, and Henry, a British Prince. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever smiled more while reading a book than when I read this one.
Although nearly everyone is on their phones, tablets, and/or laptops nowadays, the magic of holding a physical book in your hands never dies. Booktok has single handedly revived reading with its outstanding, diverse recommendations. With a variety of genres including fantasy, historical fiction, science fiction, romance, and more, books are a great source of entertainment, inspiration, and knowledge. I hope you find interest in these recommendations or, better yet, scroll through Booktok until you land on a novel that piques your interest.