The 16 Best Fiction Books of 2025, As Recommended by BookTok

BookTok persists in shaping the publishing sector.

Numerous trending titles on TikTok aren’t recent publications. Readers are drawn to re-reads of Harry Potter or initial readings of A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas. Yet, when a fresh novel debuts, BookTok has the capacity to generate modern excitement.

Below are the top 16 books released in 2025 to date, as per BookTok, sorted alphabetically by author. How many have you completed?

Alchemised by SenLinYu

Alchemised by SenLinYu, initially a Harry Potter fanfiction named Manacled, has evolved into a dark fantasy narrative. It recounts the tale of Helena, a former alchemist who has lost her memories after a conflict. It became a New York Times bestseller following its release in September 2025.

Flesh by David Szalay

David Szalay’s Flesh rose to prominence before securing the 2025 Booker Prize. It was Dua Lipa’s selection for her book club in October. The story delves into trauma, class, and identity through István, a Hungarian traversing London’s elite circles.

I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman

This novel, published in 1995, surged in popularity in 2025 due to the impact of TikTok. It follows a girl and 39 other women trapped in an underground bunker. When the men vanish, the women flee into a barren world. It achieved bestseller status, according to The Guardian.

Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a historical fiction work that explores family, identity, and love, centering on Joan Goodwin, one of the pioneering women who trained as a NASA astronaut in the 1980s.

The Devils by Joe Abercrombie

In The Devils, Joe Abercrombie presents a squad of monsters enlisted to rescue the world from elves poised to devour all of Europe’s flesh.

Oathbound by Tracy Deonn

The third installment in the Legendborn series, which intertwines King Arthur’s saga, clandestine organizations, and Southern folklore.

Hungerstone by Kat Dunn

A feminist reimagining of Carmilla, the 1872 Gothic novella that influenced Dracula.

Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry

Emily Henry’s newest work showcases her trademark mix of depth, humor, and wit. It is referred to as BGGL on TikTok.

Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney

This tale centers on Grady Green, whose wife goes missing. He relocates to a Scottish isle and meets someone who resembles his vanished partner.

Deep End by Ali Hazelwood

Ali Hazelwood’s romantic comedy features two protagonists who may be too clever for their own good.

Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix

Grady Hendrix’s book combines dark humor