BookTok, the community of book lovers sharing recommendations on TikTok, has become a powerful force in influencing reading trends and turning new releases into overnight sensations. For readers looking for fresh book recommendations, BookTok is an excellent source for discovering new releases and backlist titles currently igniting excitement online.
In this article, we will explore some of the most popular BookTok books of 2023. These books represent a wide range of genres, from romance to fantasy to mystery and thriller. They are all highly rated by BookTok users and have been praised for their well-developed characters, engaging plots, and thought-provoking themes.
Best BookTok Books 2023
Alex Michaelides
Silent patient
"The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides tells the story of Alicia Berenson, a renowned painter married to a famous fashion photographer. One night, Alicia shoots her husband multiple times in the face and never speaks again. This shocking event turns into a captivating mystery that captures the public's attention. Alicia's refusal to explain her actions leads to her being hidden away in a secure forensic unit. Theo Faber, a criminal psychotherapist, is determined to uncover the truth behind Alicia's silence. As he delves deeper into the case, he finds himself questioning his own motivations and becoming consumed by the search for answers.
Ana Huang
Twisted Love
Twisted Love by Ana Huang is a captivating romance novel about Alex Volkov, a man with a troubled past and a cold heart. Despite his ruthless pursuit of success and revenge, he finds himself drawn to his best friend's sister, Ava Chen. Ava, a free spirit haunted by her own past, sees beyond Alex's icy exterior and falls for him. Their forbidden love uncovers dangerous secrets that could ruin them and everything they cherish.
Ana Huang
Twisted Games
Twisted Games by Ana Huang is a captivating romance novel about a stoic and arrogant elite bodyguard named Rhys Larsen. Rhys has two strict rules: protect his clients at all costs and never become emotionally involved. However, everything changes when he meets Bridget von Ascheberg, a princess with a stubborn streak and a hidden fire. As they spend more time together, Rhys finds himself breaking his own rules and realizing that he wants to possess and ruin Bridget. On the other hand, Bridget dreams of freedom and love, but she is bound by duty and faced with a loveless marriage. She must also hide her desire for Rhys, her bodyguard and protector. Their forbidden love could potentially destroy a kingdom and bring doom upon them both.
Ana Huang
Twisted Hate
In "Twisted Hate" by Ana Huang, Josh Chen, a charming and ambitious future doctor, despises Jules Ambrose. However, he also finds himself strangely drawn to her. After a heated encounter, Josh suggests a enemies with benefits arrangement to get her out of his mind. Jules, a determined and focused aspiring lawyer, has no interest in getting involved with someone like Josh. But as they spend more time together, Jules discovers there is more to Josh than meets the eye. Despite their tumultuous relationship, they may be each other's only salvation. However, when their pasts come back to haunt them, they must confront difficult truths that could either save or destroy everything they've worked for.
Ana Huang
Twisted Lies
Twisted Lies by Ana Huang is a captivating book about a man named Christian Harper who will go to any lengths to have the woman he desires, even if it means lying. Christian is a charming and intelligent man who hides his deadly nature behind his perfectly tailored suits. He has no interest in morals or love, but he can't resist the mysterious pull he feels towards Stella Alonso, who lives just one floor below him. Stella is a sweet and introverted woman, despite her fame on social media, and keeps her heart guarded. However, when a threat from her past forces her to seek refuge with Christian, she begins to feel something she hasn't felt in a long time. Despite his cold exterior, Christian makes her feel alive and wanted. Their love is filled with secrets and lies, and when the truth is finally revealed, it has the power to destroy everything they have.
Blake Crouch
Dark Matter
Dark Matter by Blake Crouch is a thrilling science-fiction novel that follows the story of Jason Dessen, a college physics professor. After being abducted and waking up in a strange world, Jason realizes that his life has drastically changed. His wife is not his wife, his son was never born, and he is now a celebrated genius. As Jason tries to figure out if this new reality is a dream or not, he embarks on a journey that forces him to confront his darkest fears.
Coleen Hoover
Verity
Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer, is offered a once-in-a-lifetime job by Jeremy Crawford, the husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford. Verity is unable to finish her successful book series due to an injury, so Lowen is hired to complete the remaining books. When Lowen starts going through Verity's notes and outlines at the Crawford home, she stumbles upon an unfinished autobiography that was never meant to be read by anyone. The manuscript contains shocking admissions, including a traumatic event that changed Verity's family forever. Lowen decides to keep the manuscript hidden from Jeremy to spare him further pain, but as her feelings for him grow, she contemplates the benefits of revealing the truth. This gripping story explores the complexities of love, loyalty, and the devastating power of secrets.
Donna Tartt
The Secret History
"The Secret History" by Donna Tartt is a captivating novel about a group of unique and intelligent students at a college in New England. They are influenced by a charming classics professor who introduces them to a different way of thinking and living, far removed from the ordinary people around them. However, their pursuit of something greater takes them on a risky journey that challenges conventional ideas of right and wrong.
Elle Kennedy
The Deal
"The Deal" by Elle Kennedy is a captivating romance novel about Hannah Wells, a confident young woman who is looking to explore her sexuality. In order to catch the attention of her crush, she agrees to tutor Garrett Graham, the cocky captain of the hockey team, in exchange for a fake date. However, their pretend relationship quickly turns into something more when they share an unexpected kiss and embark on a passionate affair. As Garrett falls for Hannah, he must convince her that he is the man she truly desires.
Elsie Silver
Flawless
In the book "Flawless" by Elsie Silver, the main character finds himself in a predicament. He is tasked with staying away from his agent's daughter and avoiding trouble. However, circumstances force them to share a bed, and the rules become harder to follow. As a professional bull rider, he needs to improve his image, and his agent's daughter becomes his full-time supervisor. Despite his initial resistance, he can't help but be drawn to her. She sees beyond his public persona and they develop a connection. While she insists that their relationship means nothing, he believes it means everything. They both acknowledge the boundaries they shouldn't cross, but he is determined to win her heart regardless.
Emily McIntire
Hooked
In the book "Hooked" by Emily McIntire, James is driven by a desire for revenge against his enemy, Peter Michaels. When Wendy, Peter's daughter, enters James's bar, he sees an opportunity to use her for his plan. However, as James's organization starts to crumble, he must find a traitor and his revenge plan becomes more complicated. Meanwhile, Wendy, who has been sheltered by her cold father, becomes involved in a passionate and dangerous relationship with James. As their connection deepens, Wendy questions whether she is falling for James or the dark persona he embodies, known as Hook.
Fiona Cole
Voyeur
In "Voyeur" by Fiona Cole, the protagonist becomes infatuated with a college freshman who he initially watches at Voyeur, a place where he pays to observe others. When she becomes his student, he knows he should stop watching, but he can't resist. The problem is, she has no idea that her professor is the one watching her. He hopes that once she discovers the truth, she will want the same thing he does.
G.T.Geissinger
Perfect stranger
Olivia Rossi, a writer still recovering from a devastating loss, travels to Paris in hopes of finding inspiration and healing. Instead, she meets James, a mysterious man who sparks a passionate and intense romance. As their relationship deepens, Olivia starts to question James' true identity and wonders if their connection is more than just a summer fling.
Hannah Grace
Icebreaker
Anastasia Allen has always dreamed of making it onto Team USA. Her dreams seem to be coming true when she receives a full scholarship to the University of California, Maple Hills and joins their figure skating team. However, there's one obstacle in her way - Nate Hawkins, the captain of the hockey team. Despite their initial dislike for each other, Anastasia may have to rely on Nate when her skating partner's future is uncertain. As they spend more time together, sparks begin to fly, but Anastasia is convinced that she could never like a hockey player.
Julia Armfield
Our Wives under the Sea
Leah, a marine biologist, goes on a routine expedition that goes awry when her submarine sinks to the sea floor. When she finally returns home, her wife Miri notices a change in her. Leah is distant, barely eats, and seems lost in her thoughts. Miri becomes determined to uncover what happened during the expedition and why Leah is behaving this way. As Miri searches for answers, she must confront the possibility that she may be losing the woman she loves. Our Wives Under the Sea is a poignant and emotional exploration of the depths within ourselves and the power of love that binds us together.
Kandi Steiner
Blind Side
Blind Side by Kandi Steiner is a captivating romance novel about a college football player named Clay Johnson and a bookworm named [Name]. Clay, known for his good looks and popularity, asks [Name] to be his fake girlfriend. In return, [Name] asks Clay to help her get the attention of her crush. As they pretend to be in a relationship, [Name] realizes that her feelings for Clay may be more than just pretend.
Karin Slaughter
“False Witness”
"False Witness" by Karin Slaughter is an gripping standalone thriller that follows Leigh Collier, an up-and-coming defense attorney in Atlanta. Leigh's seemingly normal life hides a painful past filled with secrets and betrayal. When she is asked to defend a wealthy man accused of rape, she realizes that he knows her and may hold the key to her past. With time running out, Leigh must confront her past and seek help from her estranged sister to protect the devastating truth from being exposed.
Kate Stewart
Flock
"Flock" by Kate Stewart is a captivating book about a young woman who grew up believing in the idea of sacrificing everything for love. She finds herself caught in a twisted fairy tale in Triple Falls, where she becomes entangled with mysterious men. To keep them, she must be a part of their secrets, which ultimately leads to devastating consequences. This novel explores the difference between fiction and reality, and the protagonist reflects on how her own illness may have influenced the course of her love story.
Kate Stewart
Exodus
Exodus by Kate Stewart is a gripping and emotional book about a person who can no longer live a lie. Set in a haunting ghost town called Triple Falls, the protagonist reflects on their past and the mistakes they made. Filled with love, danger, and the consequences of their actions, this book explores the themes of youth, fate, and the need for self-acceptance. It is a gritty and modern take on the story of Robin Hood, with unconventional love interests and plenty of suspense and surprises.
Kelsie Rae
Don’t Let Me Go
In "Don't Let Me Go" by Kelsie Rae, the protagonist finds herself caught in an awkward situation when her brother's best friend, Theodore Taylor, reveals her virginity to the entire hockey team. Tired of being labeled as inexperienced, she decides it's time to change that. However, Theo is determined to keep her from losing her virginity, causing frustration for the protagonist.
Kristan Higgins
Pack Up the Moon
Pack Up the Moon by Kristan Higgins is a touching and heartwarming book that explores the journey of Joshua Park, a widower who is struggling to navigate life without his beloved wife, Lauren. As a scientist with a small social circle, Joshua finds himself at a loss on how to cope with his grief. However, Lauren had a plan to help him through this difficult time - twelve letters. These letters guide Joshua through the first year without her, taking him on a rollercoaster of emotions including grief, anger, and denial. Along the way, Joshua learns valuable lessons about finding joy again, even in the most unexpected places.
Kristin Hannah
The Great Alone
"The Great Alone" by Kristin Hannah is a captivating story set in Alaska in 1974. Ernt Allbright, a Vietnam War veteran, decides to move his wife and daughter to the remote wilderness of Alaska in search of a fresh start. Despite the challenges of living off the grid, the family finds solace in the tight-knit community they discover. However, as winter approaches, Ernt's mental state deteriorates, and the dangers they face become more internal than external. Leni and her mother must confront the harsh reality that they are alone in their struggle to survive.
Kristina Lauren
Love & Other Words
Love & Other Words by Kristina Lauren is a heartfelt story about Macy Sorensen and her journey to rediscover love. Macy has built a safe and predictable life, focusing on her career and upcoming wedding. However, when she unexpectedly reunites with Elliot Petropoulos, her first love, her carefully constructed world begins to unravel. The story alternates between their teenage years, where they shared a deep connection, and their present-day lives as strangers. As they confront the pain of their past, Elliot must confront his own demons and help Macy believe in the power of love once again.
Lauren Asher
Terms and Conditions
"Terms and Conditions" by Lauren Asher is a captivating book about Declan, who is set to become the next CEO of his family's media empire. However, there's a catch - his grandfather's inheritance clause requires him to get married and have an heir. Enter Iris, his assistant, who volunteers to be his fake wife. As they navigate their pretend relationship, they find themselves questioning their true feelings. Can they keep their emotions in check or will they end up falling in love against all odds?
Lauren Layne
You Again
"You Again" by Lauren Layne is a charming romantic comedy about Mac, a carefree woman in New York who just wants a casual fling. When she rejects Thomas, a preppy corporate guy, she never expects to keep running into him. Fate keeps bringing them together, from him becoming her boss to being her best friend's future brother-in-law. Despite their differences, Mac starts to realize that Thomas is the one she can't live without.
Meghan Quinn
A Not So Meet Cute
"A Not So Meet Cute" by Meghan Quinn is a delightful romantic comedy that tells the story of an unconventional meeting between two characters. Instead of a typical love story, the protagonist finds herself in a wealthy neighborhood in Beverly Hills, hoping to find a husband to make her arch nemesis jealous. However, she unexpectedly bumps into a handsome man who is dealing with his own problems. Despite there being no initial sparks, they strike up a deal to pretend to be in love and engaged. As they navigate this fake relationship, the protagonist realizes that she has developed genuine feelings for the charming Huxley Cane.
Mia Sheridan
Archer’s Voice
Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan is a captivating story set in the small town of Pelion, Maine. The protagonist, who is trying to escape her troubled past, finds herself drawn to Archer Hale, a mysterious and silent man. Despite his lack of communication, there is a deep connection between them that goes beyond physical attraction. However, their relationship is tested by the secrets and betrayals that plague the town. Through Archer's silence, they may discover the healing they both desperately need.
Mona Awad
Bunny
"Bunny" by Mona Awad is a captivating novel that follows Samantha Heather Mackey, an outsider in her MFA program at Warren University. Samantha is repelled by her fellow classmates, a group of rich girls who call themselves "Bunny" and act as one. However, everything changes when Samantha receives an invitation to the Bunnies' exclusive "Smut Salon" and becomes drawn into their mysterious world. As she delves deeper into their rituals and creations, reality begins to blur, leading to a deadly collision between her friendships and the Bunnies.
Nyla K
For The Fans
"For The Fans" by Nyla K is a book about Kyran Harbor, a popular and wealthy football player who happens to be the stepbrother of the protagonist. Despite their differences, they are forced to live together and attend the same school. Kyran is uptight and controlling, constantly messing with the protagonist. However, when they find themselves in a difficult situation, they realize they may need each other's help. Along the way, they encounter Avi Vega, the protagonist's stepbrother, who is a dreamer and artist. Despite their initial dislike for each other, they must work together to overcome their financial troubles and achieve their goals.
Ottessa Moshfegh
My Year of Rest and Relaxation
"My Year of Rest and Relaxation" by Ottessa Moshfegh is a novel about a young woman who tries to escape the troubles of the world by going into a deep sleep with the help of a terrible psychiatrist and a variety of medications. Despite having a seemingly perfect life, the protagonist feels a deep emptiness inside her. Set in the year 2000 in a wealthy and promising city, the book explores the reasons behind her alienation and the unconventional methods she uses to heal herself.
Penelope Douglas
Credence
"Credence" by Penelope Douglas is a captivating story about Tiernan de Haas, a young woman who has grown up with wealth and privilege but lacks love and guidance. After the sudden passing of her parents, Tiernan is sent to live with her father's stepbrother, Jake, and his two sons in a remote cabin in the woods. As they take her under their wing and teach her to survive in the wilderness, Tiernan begins to find her place among them. However, she soon realizes that boundaries become blurred and rules are easily broken when no one else is watching. With one of them having her and the other one wanting her, Tiernan must navigate a complex web of desire and loyalty.
Peter Swanson
The Kind Worth Killing
"The Kind Worth Killing" by Peter Swanson is a gripping thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story follows Ted Severson, a man who meets the enigmatic Lily Kintner on a flight. As they share intimate details about their lives, Ted reveals his suspicions of his wife's infidelity. In a twisted turn of events, Ted jokes about killing his wife, and Lily surprisingly offers to help. As their bond grows stronger, they begin plotting Miranda's demise. However, there is more to Lily than meets the eye, and their game of cat-and-mouse becomes increasingly dangerous. With a determined detective on their trail, their lives hang in the balance.
Rebecca Yarros
Fourth Wing
In the book "Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarros, twenty-year-old Violet Sorrengail is unexpectedly thrust into the world of dragon riders. Despite her small size and fragile body, Violet must compete with hundreds of candidates to become one of the elite dragon riders. However, bonding with a dragon is a dangerous task, and most dragons refuse to bond with humans they consider weak. Violet faces threats from both her fellow cadets and the powerful wingleader Xaden Riorson. As the war outside intensifies and the kingdom's defenses weaken, Violet begins to suspect that the leaders are hiding a dark secret. In this high-stakes environment, everyone at Basgiath War College has their own agenda, and Violet must rely on her intelligence to survive.
Rebecca Yarros
The Last Letter
"The Last Letter" by Rebecca Yarros is a heartfelt story about a soldier named Beckett who receives a letter from his best friend, Ryan, who unfortunately didn't make it. In the letter, Ryan asks Beckett to leave the army and go to Telluride to help his sister, Ella, who is raising twins on her own. Ella has already experienced the loss of their grandmother and parents, and now with Ryan gone, she needs support more than ever. Ryan pleads with Beckett to be there for Ella and their family, as he can no longer fulfill that role.
Sally Rooney
Normal People
"Normal People" by Sally Rooney tells the story of Connell and Marianne, who grew up in the same small town but have very different lives. Connell is popular in school, while Marianne is a loner. However, when they start talking, something life-changing begins. A year later, they both attend Trinity College in Dublin. Marianne thrives in her new social world, while Connell remains shy and uncertain. Throughout their university years, they are drawn to each other, even as they explore other relationships. As they face personal challenges, they must decide how far they are willing to go to save each other.
Sarah Adams
Practice Makes Perfect
Annie Walker is determined to find her perfect match in her small hometown of Rome, Kentucky. However, the dating pool is shrinking, and Annie starts to question if the problem lies with her. In an effort to become more flirtatious and fun, Annie enlists the help of Will Griffin, a sexy and tattooed bodyguard who is temporarily back in town. As they spend time together, Annie realizes there is more to Will than meets the eye. Amid practice dates and tutoring sessions, Annie begins to reconsider what she truly wants in a partner. Maybe her love life doesn't need to be perfect, just real.
Sarah J. Mass
ACOTAR series
"A Court of Thorns and Roses" is a captivating fantasy series written by Sarah J. Mass. The story follows a young woman named Feyre who is forced to navigate a dangerous and enchanting world after killing a wolf in the woods. As she becomes entangled in the politics and secrets of the faerie realm, Feyre must make choices that could change her life forever.
Sarah Pinborough
Behind Her Eyes
Behind Her Eyes by Sarah Pinborough is a gripping novel that follows the story of Louise, a single mom stuck in a monotonous routine. One night, she meets a man in a bar and feels an instant connection. Little does she know, he turns out to be her new boss, David, who is married. As Louise befriends Adele, David's wife, she begins to uncover the dark secrets of their seemingly perfect marriage. This book will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they discover just how far someone will go to protect their secrets.
Shari L. Tapscott
Guild of Secrets
In the book "Guild of Secrets" by Shari L. Tapscott, twenty-two-year-old Madeline Bennet is confident that she will secure her desired apprenticeship with the Royal Guild due to her family connections and her relationship with the grand duke's nephew. However, she is surprised when she is instead assigned to work with a group of knight marshals. Together, they travel across the US, apprehending magical wrongdoers. Along the way, Madeline faces challenges such as trolls, pixies, and criminal activities, all while dealing with the handsome and reluctant knights. As they are forced to work together for six months, Madeline wonders if they can even last a week. Additionally, Madeline is hiding a dangerous secret that could have serious consequences.
Shea Ernshaw
A History of Wild Places
Travis Wren is known for his unique ability to find missing people. When he takes on the case of Maggie St. James, a famous author of eerie children's books, he is led to a hidden place called Pastoral. This secluded community was created in the 1970s by individuals seeking a simpler life. Despite the belief that Pastoral is just a legend, Travis discovers it and then mysteriously disappears, just like Maggie. Years later, Theo, a lifelong member of Pastoral, finds Travis's abandoned truck outside the community's borders. However, entering or leaving Pastoral is strictly prohibited due to the risk of spreading a dangerous disease called rot. As Theo investigates what happened, he uncovers secrets that he, his wife Calla, and her sister Bee have been keeping from each other. These secrets reveal that their seemingly perfect and isolated world is not as safe as they thought, and that darkness can take many different forms.
Suzanne Young
The Program
In "The Program" by Suzanne Young, Sloane is living in a world where suicide has become a widespread issue. She knows that showing any emotion could lead to her being sent to The Program, the only known treatment for this epidemic. Sloane's parents are desperate to keep her alive, having already lost one child. However, she is aware that those who go through The Program lose not only their depression but also their memories. Constantly monitored, Sloane puts on a brave face and hides her true feelings, except when she is with James, who has promised to protect them both. But as their love is tested, they find themselves growing weaker and depression begins to take hold. Now, The Program is closing in on them.
Taylor Jenkins Reid
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
"The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a captivating novel about aging Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo who decides to reveal the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. Surprisingly, she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant to write her biography. Monique, who is going through a rough patch in her personal and professional life, sees this as an opportunity to jumpstart her career. As Evelyn shares her story, from her rise to fame in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the '80s, Monique becomes enthralled by the tale of ambition, friendship, and forbidden love. However, as Evelyn's story unfolds, it becomes clear that her life is intertwined with Monique's in tragic and irreversible ways.
Whispers and the Roars
K Webster
Whispers and the Roars by K Webster is a heartfelt story about a recluse who has isolated herself from the world. She used to have a boyfriend, Yeo Anderson, who was her everything, but she pushed him away because she believed she was a burden to him. Now, Yeo is back and determined to fight for their love. However, the protagonist's past is filled with darkness and violence, making it seem like love is a constant battle. Despite this, Yeo remains hopeful that their hearts will prevail in the end.
