As a millennial, I find myself scrolling through TikTok and often feel like a spectator rather than a creator. I resist getting sucked into yet another social media vortex, but there's one aspect that draws me in: #BookTok.
BookTok is a vibrant section of TikTok where users share quick videos recommending and reviewing young adult and romance novels. It’s a passionate community that even includes accounts dedicated to beloved characters from trending books.
This platform has sparked a movement, inspiring countless young readers to dive into literature. Currently, the hashtag boasts nearly 190 billion views. BookTok is fueling book sales and influencing publishing deals with its infectious word-of-mouth promotion.
Featured image from our interview with Roti Brown.
What Defines a TikTok Book?
A TikTok book refers to any title that has gained traction organically on the platform. Often, these books feature eye-catching covers and captivating stories. You’ll spot trends like fantasy elements intertwined with romance, focusing on popular tropes such as “enemies to lovers” and “forced proximity.”
Why Is BookTok So Popular?
BookTok has revitalized reading, making it trendy again. It introduces younger audiences to captivating narratives that allow them to escape their realities. The pandemic shifted our reading habits, and BookTok filled this void with engaging titles like “books that will make you fall in love with reading” and “books that left me heartbroken.” It presents reading as exciting and accessible.
21 Must-Read BookTok Titles
Here’s the big unveil! I teamed up with editors Bridget Chambers and Isabelle Eyman to review the bestsellers on TikTok. Here are our top 21 BookTok recommendations, perfect for your next cozy reading session.
1. The Guest List by Lucy Foley
Genre: Thriller & Suspense
Review: This gripping tale had me hooked from the very first line. I couldn’t put it down, eager to uncover the mystery behind the whodunnit. Its predictability didn’t detract from my enjoyment. If you love fast-paced narratives, this one’s for you. — Brittany
Coming Soon: Rumor has it, The Guest List may soon become a TV series.
Shop Now2. Every Summer After by Carley Fortune
Genre: Fiction
Review: This summer romance had me completely invested, reminiscent of People We Meet on Vacation. While the ending felt a tad rushed, I loved every moment of it. — Bridget
Every Summer After by Carley Fortune
Shop Now3. Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Genre: Horror Fiction
Review: Perfect for spooky season, this intriguing novel blends mystery with just the right amount of eeriness. I’m not a horror fan, but this book captivated me without haunting my dreams. — Brittany
Coming Soon: A Hulu adaptation is in the works.
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
$14.69
4. The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory
Genre: Fiction Romance
Review: A lighthearted romcom with a cute premise, though I found some characters unrelatable. It served as a nice break between heavier reads. — Brittany
The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory
Shop Now5. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Genre: Science Fiction
Review: I was intrigued by the idea of a library where you can explore alternate lives. While I found the story somewhat melancholic, Haig's writing is beautiful. It’s garnered numerous accolades, making it a popular choice. — Brittany
Coming Soon: A film adaptation is on the way.
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Shop Now6. The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: This epic tale is both heartbreaking and empowering, and Hannah’s writing always resonates deeply. I typically avoid tear-jerkers, but this one felt genuinely worthwhile. — Brittany
The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
Shop Now7. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: A beautifully woven story about two sisters in France during WWII. The vivid characters and setting will stay with you. If you haven’t read it yet, now’s your chance. — Brittany
Coming Soon: A film adaptation featuring Dakota and Elle Fanning is in the works.
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Shop Now8. Book Lovers by Emily Henry
Genre: Fiction Romance
Review: Emily Henry’s charm shines through in this witty romance. The characters are engaging, and the balance of humor and depth is masterfully done. I’m now a devoted fan. — Brittany
Shop Now9. Verity by Colleen Hoover
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Review: In my opinion, Verity is Hoover’s best work. It kept me up late, filled with suspense, and had an unforgettable conclusion. It’s perfect for those who enjoy thrillers. — Bridget
Shop Now10. It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
Genre: Fiction Romance
Review: This book has received a lot of buzz, and while I appreciated it, I felt slightly underwhelmed. The narrative deals with heavy themes, which may require a trigger warning. — Bridget
Coming Soon: A film adaptation is in the works.
It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
Shop Now11. Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren
Genre: Fiction Romance
Review: This book shares a similar vibe to Every Summer After, following a best friends-to-lovers arc that I couldn’t resist. It’s a heartfelt tale of connections that endure. — Bridget
Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren
Shop Now12. A Court of Thorns and Roses Series by Sarah J. Maas
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Review: I had to see what the hype was about this series. I’m currently savoring the fifth book. The plot-driven narrative features rich world-building and a fantastic enemies-to-lovers dynamic. — Brittany
Coming Soon: Hulu has acquired rights to adapt this series.
A Court of Thorns and Roses Series by Sarah J. Maas
Shop Now13. Throne of Glass Series by Sarah J. Maas
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy, Romance
Review: I started with this series before A Court of Thorns and Roses. Watching Maas’s writing evolve is captivating, and her unexpected twists keep the story engaging. — Brittany
Throne of Glass Series by Sarah J. Maas
Shop Now14. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: This engrossing tale transported me to the glamorous yet flawed world of old Hollywood. Evelyn Hugo is a character you will both envy and sympathize with. Fun fact: Reid’s characters often crossover between her novels. — Bridget
Coming Soon: Netflix is adapting this captivating story.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Shop Now15. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab
Genre: Fantasy Fiction
Review: This tale about a woman who makes a deal for immortality is captivating. It’s a unique mix of mystery and magic that’s perfect for fans of supernatural stories. — Brittany
Coming Soon: A film adaptation is in the works.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab
Shop Now16. Funny You Should Ask by Elissa Sussman
Genre: Fiction Romance
Review: This book is a whimsical fantasy about writing a profile on a crush. Despite its unrealistic premise, the witty dialogue makes it an enjoyable escape. — Bridget
Funny You Should Ask by Elissa Sussman
Shop Now17. Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure
Review: This is one of my top ten books ever. It’s a brilliant mix of humor, adventure, and resilience, with a gripping “save the world” plot that’s hard to resist. Weir has outdone himself! — Brittany
Coming Soon: A film adaptation is underway, starring RYAN GOSLING.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
Shop Now18. Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow: A Novel by Gabrielle Zevin
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Review: This acclaimed book about two friends creating video games was a delightful read. It explores themes of creativity and offers a unique perspective on friendship. Just a heads-up: it may contain some sensitive topics.
Coming Soon: A film adaptation is in development.
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow: A Novel by Gabrielle Zevin
Shop Now19. The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand
Genre: Romantic Fiction
Review: Though I usually prefer physical books, I found this audiobook enchanting. Hilderbrand beautifully captures the essence of new beginnings. It’s a heartwarming story centered on female friendships. — Isabelle
The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand
Shop Now20. I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
Genre: Memoir
Review: A memoir with a title that grabs your attention, McCurdy shares her tumultuous journey as a child star. It’s a candid and challenging read that offers a deep look into her life. — Isabelle
I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
Shop Now21. My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh
Genre: Literary fiction
Review: This unique narrative is unlike anything I’ve read. Moshfegh’s writing immerses you in the protagonist’s existential journey. It’s a thought-provoking experience that will leave you reflecting on life. — Isabelle
My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh
Shop Now
