In the ever-evolving landscape of social media, TikTok has emerged as a powerful platform for book lovers to share their passion for reading. The BookTok community has become a driving force in the publishing industry, catapulting both new releases and older titles to bestseller status. In this blog post, we’ll explore the 12 best BookTok books that have captured the hearts of readers worldwide and dominated the literary conversation on social media.
Content
- 1. "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid
- 2. "It Ends with Us" by Colleen Hoover
- 3. "The Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller
- 4. "They Both Die at the End" by Adam Silvera
- 5. "The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue" by V.E. Schwab
- 6. "Red, White & Royal Blue" by Casey McQuiston
- 7. "The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig
- 8. "Six of Crows" by Leigh Bardugo
- 9. "A Court of Thorns and Roses" by Sarah J. Maas
- 10. "The Love Hypothesis" by Ali Hazelwood
- 11. "The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides
- 12. "Normal People" by Sally Rooney
- Conclusion
1. “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Taylor Jenkins Reid’s “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” has become a BookTok sensation, and for good reason. This captivating novel tells the story of Evelyn Hugo, a legendary Hollywood actress who, in her twilight years, decides to reveal the truth about her scandalous life and seven marriages to an unknown journalist.
Why it’s a BookTok favorite:
- Compelling narrative structure
- Complex, multi-dimensional characters
- Exploration of themes like sexuality, identity, and the price of fame
- Plot twists that keep readers guessing until the very end
Reid’s masterful storytelling and the book’s emotional depth have resonated with readers, sparking countless discussions and fan theories on TikTok.
2. “It Ends with Us” by Colleen Hoover
Colleen Hoover has become synonymous with BookTok success, and “It Ends with Us” is perhaps her most praised work on the platform. This heart-wrenching novel tackles the difficult subject of domestic abuse with sensitivity and nuance.
Key features that make it a BookTok hit:
- A raw and honest portrayal of complex relationships
- Emotionally charged narrative
- Important discussions about cycles of abuse and breaking free
- Memorable and relatable characters
Hoover’s ability to blend romance with serious social issues has made this book a topic of intense discussion and recommendation on BookTok.
3. “The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller
Madeline Miller’s retelling of the Iliad from Patroclus’s perspective has found a new audience thanks to BookTok. “The Song of Achilles” offers a fresh take on the classic tale of Achilles and the Trojan War, focusing on the love story between Achilles and Patroclus.
Why BookTok can’t stop talking about it:
- Beautiful, lyrical prose
- Emotional depth in the portrayal of love and loss
- Accessible approach to Greek mythology
- LGBTQ+ representation in classical literature
The book’s emotional impact has led to numerous TikTok videos of readers sharing their reactions, often through tears, making it a must-read for the BookTok community.
4. “They Both Die at the End” by Adam Silvera
Adam Silvera’s “They Both Die at the End” has found a massive audience on BookTok, despite (or perhaps because of) its heartbreaking premise. The story follows two teenage boys who learn they have only 24 hours left to live and decide to spend their last day together.
What makes it a BookTok phenomenon:
- The high-concept premise that immediately grabs attention
- Exploration of mortality and making the most of life
- LGBTQ+ representation and diverse characters
- Emotional rollercoaster that resonates with readers
The book’s title alone has made it a popular subject for TikTok videos, with readers sharing their emotional journeys and encouraging others to experience the story for themselves.
5. “The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” by V.E. Schwab
V.E. Schwab’s “The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” has captivated BookTok with its unique premise and spanning narrative. The story follows Addie, a woman who makes a Faustian bargain to live forever but is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets.
Why it’s a BookTok favorite:
- Intriguing concept that sparks philosophical discussions
- Beautiful writing that often feels poetic
- Exploration of art, history, and the human experience
- Complex character development over centuries
The book’s themes of memory, identity, and the impact we leave on the world have resonated deeply with the BookTok community, leading to countless recommendations and discussions.
6. “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston
Casey McQuiston’s debut novel, “Red, White & Royal Blue,” has become a BookTok staple in the romance genre. This enemies-to-lovers story follows the First Son of the United States as he falls for a British prince.
What makes it a BookTok hit:
- Witty dialogue and humor
- LGBTQ+ representation in a mainstream romance
- Political setting that adds depth to the story
- The feel-good narrative that offers escape and hope
The book’s charm and its ability to balance romance with political intrigue have made it a frequent recommendation on BookTok, especially for those looking for inclusive, contemporary romance.
7. “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig
Matt Haig’s “The Midnight Library” has struck a chord with BookTok users for its thought-provoking premise and life-affirming message. The story follows Nora Seed, who finds herself in a library between life and death, able to try out different versions of her life.
Why BookTok loves it:
- Exploration of life’s choices and regrets
- Philosophical questions that spark introspection
- This uplifting message about appreciating life
- Accessible writing style that tackles deep themes
The book’s central concept has led to numerous TikTok videos where users discuss their own “what if” scenarios and share how the book has impacted their outlook on life.
8. “Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo
While not a new release, Leigh Bardugo’s “Six of Crows” has found renewed popularity thanks to BookTok and its Netflix adaptation. This YA fantasy heist novel has captivated readers with its intricate plot and diverse cast of characters.
Key features that make it a BookTok favorite:
- The ensemble cast of morally gray characters
- Intricate world-building within the Grishaverse
- Clever heist plot with unexpected twists
- Representation of diverse backgrounds and abilities
The book’s complex characters and their dynamics have sparked countless fan edits and character analyses on TikTok, contributing to its enduring popularity.
9. “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas
Sarah J. Maas’s “A Court of Thorns and Roses” series has become a BookTok sensation, with the first book often serving as an entry point to the fantasy romance genre for many readers.
Why it’s a BookTok phenomenon:
- Engaging a fantasy world with faerie courts
- Strong character development, especially for the female lead
- A blend of romance, action, and political intrigue
- The series potential that keeps readers invested
The series’ popularity on BookTok has led to numerous reading vlogs, fan theories, and even themed merchandise, creating a passionate community around the books.
10. “The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood
Ali Hazelwood’s debut novel, “The Love Hypothesis,” has taken BookTok by storm with its charming academic romance. The story follows a Ph.D. candidate who finds herself in a fake relationship with a young professor.
What makes it a BookTok hit:
- STEM representation, especially for women in science
- Fake dating trope executed with a fresh twist
- Witty banter and slow-burn romance
- Relatable portrayal of academic life and struggles
The book’s ability to blend romance with discussions about women in STEM fields has made it a frequent recommendation on BookTok, especially for those looking for contemporary romance with substance.
11. “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides
Alex Michaelides’ psychological thriller “The Silent Patient” has become a BookTok favorite for those who enjoy mind-bending mysteries. The story revolves around a woman who murders her husband and then stops speaking, and the therapist is determined to unravel her mystery.
Why BookTok can’t stop talking about it:
- Gripping plot with a shocking twist ending
- Exploration of psychology and therapy
- Unreliable narration that keeps readers guessing
- Discussion of mental health issues
The book’s twist ending has led to numerous reaction videos on TikTok, with readers sharing their shock and encouraging others to experience the story for themselves.
12. “Normal People” by Sally Rooney
Sally Rooney’s “Normal People” has found a devoted following on BookTok, praised for its realistic and raw portrayal of young love and coming-of-age experiences. The novel follows the complex relationship between two Irish teenagers as they navigate school, university, and early adulthood.
Key features that make it a BookTok favorite:
- Authentic depiction of modern relationships
- Exploration of class differences and their impact
- Beautiful, understated prose
- Character-driven narrative that feels deeply personal
The book’s honest portrayal of young adult experiences has resonated with many BookTok users, leading to thoughtful discussions about relationships, communication, and personal growth.
Conclusion
The BookTok phenomenon has revolutionized the way readers discover and engage with books. These 12 titles represent just a fraction of the amazing literature being shared and discussed on the platform. From heart-wrenching romances to mind-bending thrillers, there’s something for every reader in the BookTok community.
What makes these books stand out is not just their compelling stories, but the conversations they spark. BookTok has created a space where readers can share their emotional reactions, analyze complex themes, and connect with others who share their passion for literature.
As the BookTok community continues to grow and evolve, it’s exciting to think about which books will capture readers’ imaginations next. Whether you’re a longtime BookTok enthusiast or new to the platform, these 12 books offer a great starting point for exploring the literary world through the lens of social media.
So, grab one of these BookTok favorites, curl up with a good read, and don’t forget to share your thoughts with the vibrant community of book lovers on TikTok. Happy reading!
