Discover the most captivating YA books trending on BookTok in 2025, from swoon-worthy romances and immersive fantasies to gripping mysteries that readers can’t stop talking about.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Fantasy Favorites Taking BookTok by Storm
- Romance That Has BookTok Swooning
- Mystery and Thriller Recommendations That Keep BookTok Guessing
- Contemporary Fiction That’s Starting Conversations
- How to Navigate BookTok as a Reader
- Frequently Asked Questions About BookTok
- What are the most popular YA books on BookTok?
- How do I find new YA books to read on BookTok?
- What are some highly recommended YA romance novels on BookTok?
- Can I find fantasy YA book recommendations on BookTok?
- How does BookTok influence YA book sales?
- What are some trending YA books on TikTok?
- How do I join the BookTok community?
- What are some must-read YA books for beginners?
- Are there any YA book clubs on BookTok?
- How do I write a YA book review for BookTok?
- Conclusion
Introduction
If you’ve spent any time scrolling through TikTok lately, you’ve probably stumbled across the vibrant corner of the platform known as BookTok. This literary wonderland has transformed how young adult books find their audiences, catapulting titles from obscurity to bestseller status virtually overnight. As a book lover who’s fallen down the BookTok rabbit hole more times than I can count, I’ve watched this community evolve from a niche interest group to a powerhouse influencing the entire publishing industry.
What makes BookTok so special? It’s the raw, unfiltered enthusiasm. When a reader genuinely connects with a story, their emotion-driven recommendations resonate in ways traditional marketing never could. Whether it’s tearful reactions to heartbreaking endings, passionate defenses of misunderstood characters, or heated debates about controversial plot twists, BookTok offers authenticity in an age of carefully curated content.
In this guide, I’m diving into the most captivating YA books currently lighting up BookTok. From swoon-worthy romances and mind-bending fantasies to gripping mysteries and thought-provoking contemporaries, these recommendations span every genre imaginable. Whether you’re a longtime BookTok devotee or curious about what all the fuss is about, this roundup will help you discover your next unforgettable read.
Fantasy Favorites Taking BookTok by Storm
Fantasy continues to reign supreme on BookTok, with readers craving immersive worlds and magical systems that offer an escape from everyday life. These titles have generated millions of views and passionate fan bases.
Breath of the Dragon by Fonda Lee and Shannon Lee
Fonda Lee (known for the Green Bone Saga) has teamed up with Bruce Lee’s daughter Shannon Lee to create a martial arts fantasy that’s quickly becoming a BookTok sensation. Following the journey of a young warrior competing in the elite Guardian Tournament, this book combines breathtaking action sequences with deep explorations of honor, legacy, and inner strength.
What makes this book stand out is its authentic martial arts representation and philosophical depth. BookTok users particularly praise the complex female protagonist and the intricate world-building that draws inspiration from various Asian cultures. The training montages have inspired countless TikTok recreations, with readers attempting (often hilariously) to mirror the protagonist’s disciplined routines.
Why BookTok loves it: The combination of heart-pounding action, emotional character development, and philosophical themes makes this book perfect for creating dynamic, engaging content that resonates across different BookTok communities.
The Otherwhere Post by Emily J. Taylor
When a book promises a “deadly mystery spanning worlds,” BookTok takes notice. Emily J. Taylor’s dark fantasy follows a protagonist who discovers correspondence between our world and a parallel dimension where magic exists. As letters between the worlds reveal sinister secrets, the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur dangerously.
BookTok creators have embraced this book’s aesthetic potential, creating atmospheric videos featuring vintage writing desks, wax-sealed letters, and flickering candlelight. The book’s unique premise has spawned a trend of readers creating their own “letters from elsewhere,” imagining what they might write to alternate versions of themselves.
Why BookTok loves it: The visually striking elements and parallel world concept provide perfect fodder for creative TikTok content, while the mystery element keeps readers frantically turning pages (and posting reactions).
Nightweaver by R.M. Gray
BookTok’s obsession with “romantasy” (romance + fantasy) continues with R.M. Gray’s Nightweaver, a story about elemental magic and forbidden romance. Featuring a magic system where practitioners control either light or darkness, this tale of star-crossed lovers from opposing magical disciplines has sparked intense debate about whether you’d rather wield light or shadow powers.
The book’s magic duels have inspired elaborate BookTok transitions, with creators using clever lighting techniques to simulate the magical battles. Quotes about forbidden love between the protagonists frequently appear in relationship TikToks, sometimes applied to completely unrelated contexts.
Why BookTok loves it: The combination of romantic tension and magical world-building hits BookTok’s sweet spot, while the light vs. dark theme provides a visually compelling framework for video content.
Oathbound by Tracy Deonn
As the third installment in Tracy Deonn’s bestselling Legendborn Cycle, Oathbound was already guaranteed BookTok attention. This series, which reimagines Arthurian legend in a contemporary Southern university setting, has cultivated a dedicated following for its blend of Black girl magic, secret societies, and complex family legacies.
BookTok users have created elaborate character analyses, debating the motivations and future paths of key players. The series’ exploration of grief, heritage, and power has resonated particularly strongly with readers who rarely see themselves represented in fantasy.
Why BookTok loves it: Series continuations generate powerful emotional responses from invested fans, creating perfect reaction video material. The book’s diverse representation and fresh take on familiar mythology also spark meaningful discussions.
What Wakes the Bells by Elle Tesch
Gothic fantasy inspired by Prague legends might sound niche, but Elle Tesch’s atmospheric debut has found its audience on BookTok. Set in a fictional city where enchanted bells predict (or perhaps determine) significant events, this eerie tale combines historical mystery with supernatural elements.
The book’s haunting imagery—clocktowers, mist-filled streets, and enigmatic bell-ringers—has inspired aesthetic TikToks set to melancholy music. The central mystery has BookTok creators posting theories and reaction videos as they reach the book’s shocking revelations.
Why BookTok loves it: The unique setting and premise stand out in a crowded market, while the gothic atmosphere provides perfect material for moody, artistic TikToks that perform well on the platform.
Romance That Has BookTok Swooning
Romance continues to thrive on BookTok, with creators posting everything from tearful reactions to heated debates about love triangles. These titles have BookTok collectively sighing, screaming, and occasionally throwing books across the room (in the best way possible).
Bingsu For Two by Sujin Witherspoon
This enemies-to-lovers coffee shop romance combines two of BookTok’s favorite things: delicious food and reluctant attraction. Set in a Korean dessert café, the story follows rivals forced to work together who discover that their initial impressions of each other might have been completely wrong.
The book has sparked a trend of TikTok users visiting Korean dessert shops to try bingsu (shaved ice dessert) while reading or discussing the book. The vivid food descriptions have inspired cooking and baking videos recreating treats mentioned in the story.
Why BookTok loves it: The combination of food content and romance creates perfect cross-genre appeal, while the familiar coffee shop setting makes the story relatable and film-friendly for short TikTok scenes.
Hangry Hearts by Jennifer Chen
Jennifer Chen’s “funny, big-hearted romance about friendship and love” centers on a cooking competition where rivals develop feelings amid the chaos of a high-pressure culinary showdown. The book’s playful tone and food-centric plot have made it a hit among BookTok creators who appreciate both rom-coms and culinary content.
BookTokers have embraced the cooking competition element, creating their own challenges inspired by pivotal moments in the book. Others focus on recreating the comfort foods that feature prominently in the characters’ emotional journeys.
Why BookTok loves it: The combination of culinary competition and romance creates natural tension and visual appeal, while the humor provides clip-worthy moments that perform well in short-form video.
Say a Little Prayer by Jenna Voris
Set at a church summer camp, this “wry, heartfelt tale” explores faith, identity, and unexpected romance. The nostalgic summer camp setting has resonated with BookTok users sharing their own camp experiences, while the book’s nuanced approach to religion and sexuality has sparked thoughtful discussions.
The summer camp setting has inspired aesthetic TikToks featuring hiking boots, friendship bracelets, and starry night skies. The book’s exploration of faith and identity has prompted creators to share their own journeys, creating a supportive community in the comments.
Why BookTok loves it: The combination of nostalgia and coming-of-age themes creates emotionally resonant content, while the book’s handling of complex topics generates meaningful discussion beyond simple recommendations.
The Rose Bargain by Sasha Peyton Smith
Opening a fantasy duology with fae romance elements, The Rose Bargain combines BookTok’s enduring fascination with the fae and its love for tales of dangerous bargains. When the protagonist makes a deal with a mysterious fae lord, she discovers that the cost may be higher than she anticipated.
BookTok creators have embraced the aesthetic possibilities of rose imagery, creating elaborate themed videos featuring dried flowers, thorns, and vintage botanical illustrations. The concept of magical bargains has spawned a trend of users sharing what they would (or wouldn’t) trade for various fae gifts.
Why BookTok loves it: The visually appealing rose motif creates stunning TikTok visuals, while the dangerous romance dynamics spark heated debates in comment sections.
Fable For The End of the World by Ava Reid
Ava Reid’s dystopian romance about survival and sacrifice has captivated BookTok with its blend of post-apocalyptic tension and deeply human connection. Set in a world devastated by environmental catastrophe, this love story against a backdrop of societal collapse feels uncomfortably timely.
The book’s environmental themes have resonated with climate-conscious BookTok users, who create content connecting the fictional scenario to current concerns. Others focus on the romance aspect, celebrating how love persists even in the most desperate circumstances.
Why BookTok loves it: The high-stakes setting creates natural emotional intensity that translates well to short-form video, while the contemporary relevance of environmental themes generates engagement beyond typical book discussions.
Mystery and Thriller Recommendations That Keep BookTok Guessing
For readers who love suspense, plot twists, and the occasional jump scare, BookTok’s thriller recommendations deliver sleepless nights and gasping reactions. These titles have users posting shocked reaction videos and elaborate theory breakdowns.
These Vengeful Wishes by Vanessa Montalban
This horror novel about a vengeful spirit has BookTok creators filming their reactions to its most shocking moments. Combining supernatural elements with psychological suspense, the story follows a protagonist who discovers an ancient curse that grants wishes—but at a terrible cost.
BookTok users have created “Don’t read this at night” warning videos, sharing their sleep-deprived experiences after making the mistake of reading the book’s most terrifying scenes before bed. Others post elaborate theory videos, trying to predict the curse’s next manifestation before the protagonist does.
Why BookTok loves it: Horror reactions create some of the most engaging content on the platform, while the wish-granting premise sparks intriguing discussions about what people would risk for their deepest desires.
Wicked Darlings by Jordyn Taylor
This twisty thriller about Manhattan’s high society has BookTok users obsessing over its morally ambiguous characters and shocking revelations. Set in the exclusive world of prep schools and penthouses, the story follows a protagonist who infiltrates a secretive clique only to discover dangerous secrets.
The book’s luxurious setting has inspired the “rich people aesthetic” on TikTok, featuring designer clothing, champagne glasses, and Manhattan skylines. The morally complex characters have generated heated debates about where to draw the line between justifiable revenge and cruelty.
Why BookTok loves it: The glamorous setting provides visually appealing content, while the moral ambiguity creates perfect debate fodder for comment sections.
All Better Now by Neal Shusterman
Neal Shusterman’s thriller about a world where happiness is contagious offers a uniquely disturbing premise that has captivated BookTok. When artificial happiness spreads like a virus, the story explores the dark side of enforced positivity and the value of authentic emotional experience.
The book’s examination of toxic positivity has resonated strongly with BookTok creators connecting the fictional scenario to real-world pressure to maintain happiness at all costs. Others create suspenseful reaction videos as they reach the book’s most disturbing revelations about the happiness contagion.
Why BookTok loves it: The timely social commentary provides material for thoughtful discussion videos, while the thriller elements create tension-filled reaction content.
When The Bones Sing by Ginny Myers Sain
This southern gothic supernatural thriller combines regional folklore with modern suspense, creating an atmosphere that BookTok users can’t get enough of. Set in a small southern town haunted by its own dark history, the story weaves together family secrets, local legends, and unexplained phenomena.
BookTok creators have embraced the book’s Southern Gothic aesthetic, creating atmospheric videos featuring Spanish moss, abandoned buildings, and eerie night scenes. The book’s folklore elements have inspired users to share local legends from their own regions.
Why BookTok loves it: The distinctive regional setting and supernatural elements create visually striking content, while the mystery aspects keep viewers engaged through a multi-part reaction series.
Needy Little Things by Channelle Desamours
This speculative mystery about a teen with premonition-like powers has BookTok users debating the nature of fate and free will. When the protagonist begins experiencing visions of potential futures, she must decide whether to intervene in events that haven’t yet occurred.
The ethical dilemmas presented in the book have sparked thoughtful TikTok discussions about responsibility and intervention. Users create “What would you do?” scenarios based on the protagonist’s choices, generating engagement through relatable moral questions.
Why BookTok loves it: The book’s premise creates natural opportunities for interactive content that asks viewers what they would do in similar situations, driving high engagement rates.
Contemporary Fiction That’s Starting Conversations
For readers who prefer their fiction grounded in reality (with perhaps a touch of the extraordinary), these contemporary YA novels address relevant social issues while delivering compelling storytelling that has BookTok talking.
Everything Is Poison by Joy McCullough
This historical novel about secrets and care has found a dedicated following on BookTok for its nuanced exploration of complex family dynamics against a historical backdrop. The story follows a protagonist uncovering family secrets related to herbal medicine and alleged poisonings.
BookTok users have embraced the book’s historical elements, creating videos featuring antique bottles, dried herbs, and vintage apothecary aesthetics. The themes of generational knowledge and women’s work in medicine have sparked discussions about how historical perspectives shape current attitudes.
Why BookTok loves it: The visually appealing elements of herbal medicine create distinctive TikTok aesthetics, while the historical insights provide educational content that performs well on the platform.
Under the Same Stars by Libba Bray
Libba Bray’s historical mystery examining truth and rebellion has BookTok creators praising its thought-provoking themes and immersive historical setting. Set during a pivotal historical moment, the story follows characters questioning societal expectations and fighting for change.
The book’s exploration of activism and social change has resonated with politically engaged BookTok users, who create content connecting historical movements to contemporary issues. Others focus on the mystery elements, posting reaction videos as they uncover the truth alongside the protagonists.
Why BookTok loves it: The combination of historical setting and contemporary relevance creates content with both aesthetic appeal and meaningful substance.
All the Hidden Monsters by Amie Jordan
This mystery novel has a unique cast of characters, and BookTok praises its representation and emotional depth. Featuring protagonists rarely centered in mainstream fiction, the story explores how society often overlooks those it has labeled as “other.”
BookTok creators have embraced the book’s themes of visibility and voice, creating content about characters who resist being silenced. The mystery elements drive engagement through theory videos and reaction content as readers work through the central puzzle.
Why BookTok loves it: The diverse representation resonates with BookTok’s emphasis on inclusive storytelling, while the mystery framework provides structure for ongoing engagement.
The Wildest Things by Andrea Hannah
This sapphic Snow White retelling has quickly become a BookTok favorite for its fresh take on a familiar story. Reimagining the classic tale with LGBTQ+ characters and contemporary themes, the book explores identity, power, and authentic love.
BookTok creators have embraced both the fairy tale elements and the sapphic representation, creating content that celebrates the book’s subversion of traditional narratives. The familiar framework of Snow White provides accessible entry points for viewers not typically drawn to LGBTQ+ content.
Why BookTok loves it: The combination of nostalgic fairy tale elements and progressive representation creates content that bridges different BookTok communities.
Lovely Dark and Deep by Elisa A. Bonnin
This dark academia novel exploring magic and loneliness has found its audience among BookTok’s academic aesthetic enthusiasts. Set in an elite magical institution, the story follows a protagonist navigating both supernatural challenges and the very human experience of isolation.
BookTok creators have embraced the dark academia aesthetic, creating moody videos featuring leather-bound books, fountain pens, and flickering candles. The book’s exploration of loneliness has resonated during a time when many young people report feeling increasingly isolated.
Why BookTok loves it: The visually striking dark academia aesthetic performs exceptionally well on TikTok, while the emotional themes create opportunities for vulnerable, relatable content.
If you’re new to BookTok or looking to optimize your experience, here are some tips for finding your next favorite read:
Finding Your BookTok Niche
BookTok isn’t a monolith—it’s divided into countless sub-communities based on genres, tropes, and reading preferences. To find your perfect BookTok recommendations:
- Start with hashtags related to genres you already enjoy (#YAFantasy, #RomanceBookTok, #ThrillerBooks)
- Follow creators whose taste seems to align with yours
- Engage with videos about books you’ve read and enjoyed to train the algorithm
- Look beyond the mainstream hits to discover hidden gems from smaller creators
Remember that the most viral books aren’t necessarily the ones you’ll enjoy most—finding creators whose taste matches yours is more valuable than following general trends.
Decoding BookTok Lingo
BookTok has developed its own vocabulary, which can be confusing for newcomers. Here’s a quick guide to common terms:
- DNF: Did Not Finish (abandoned a book)
- TBR: To Be Read (your reading wishlist)
- Spice: Romance content ranging from mild to explicit
- Trope: Recurring literary devices or themes (enemies-to-lovers, chosen one)
- Book Hangover: The emotional aftermath of finishing an impactful book
- Mood Reading: Choosing books based on current emotional state rather than a planned list
Understanding these terms will help you navigate recommendations and participate in discussions.
Creating Your Own BookTok Content
If you’re inspired to join the conversation, here are tips for creating engaging BookTok content:
- Start with reactions to popular books to connect with existing audiences
- Develop a consistent aesthetic that reflects your reading personality
- Use trending sounds creatively to increase visibility
- Participate in challenges like showing your bookshelf or rating recent reads
- Be authentic about your reactions—genuine enthusiasm is what makes BookTok special
Remember that building an audience takes time, but the BookTok community is generally welcoming to new creators who bring genuine passion.
Frequently Asked Questions About BookTok
What are the most popular YA books on BookTok?
The most popular YA books on BookTok fluctuate as trends evolve, but certain titles maintain staying power. Fantasy series like Tracy Deonn’s Legendborn Cycle consistently perform well, as do romantic comedies like Bingsu For Two. For the most current trending titles, search hashtags like #BookTokMadeMeReadIt or #BookTokFavorites.
How do I find new YA books to read on BookTok?
To discover new YA books on BookTok:
- Follow hashtags like #YABookRecommendations or #BookTokRecs
- Engage with videos about books you’ve enjoyed to train the algorithm
- Follow BookTok creators with similar tastes
- Check out “if you liked X, try Y” recommendation videos
- Look for genre-specific hashtags (#YAFantasy, #YARomance, #YAMystery)
What are some highly recommended YA romance novels on BookTok?
BookTok’s favorite YA romance novels currently include:
- Bingsu For Two by Sujin Witherspoon (enemies-to-lovers)
- Hangry Hearts by Jennifer Chen (cooking competition romance)
- Say a Little Prayer by Jenna Voris (summer camp romance)
- The Rose Bargain by Sasha Peyton Smith (fae romance)
- Fable For The End of the World by Ava Reid (dystopian romance)
Can I find fantasy YA book recommendations on BookTok?
Fantasy is one of BookTok’s strongest categories, with endless recommendations available. Current favorites include:
- Breath of the Dragon by Fonda Lee and Shannon Lee
- The Otherwhere Post by Emily J. Taylor
- Nightweaver by R.M. Gray
- Oathbound by Tracy Deonn
- What Wakes the Bells by Elle Tesch
How does BookTok influence YA book sales?
BookTok has revolutionized YA book sales, sometimes increasing a title’s sales by 1000% overnight when it goes viral. Publishers now actively court BookTok creators, sending advance copies to influencers and designing covers with “TikTok appeal.” Many bookstores have created dedicated “As Seen on BookTok” sections to capitalize on the platform’s influence.
What are some trending YA books on TikTok?
Trending YA books on TikTok change rapidly, but current favorites include:
- Breath of the Dragon by Fonda Lee and Shannon Lee
- The Rose Bargain by Sasha Peyton Smith
- These Vengeful Wishes by Vanessa Montalban
- Oathbound by Tracy Deonn
- Bingsu For Two by Sujin Witherspoon
How do I join the BookTok community?
To join the BookTok community:
- Create a TikTok account if you don’t already have one
- Follow the #BookTok hashtag and related tags that interest you
- Engage with videos by commenting and sharing your thoughts
- Create your own content about books you’re reading
- Participate in BookTok challenges and trends
- Join virtual book clubs organized through the platform
What are some must-read YA books for beginners?
If you’re new to YA and looking for entry points based on BookTok recommendations:
- For fantasy fans: Breath of the Dragon by Fonda Lee and Shannon Lee
- For romance readers: Bingsu For Two by Sujin Witherspoon
- For thriller enthusiasts: Wicked Darlings by Jordyn Taylor
- For contemporary fiction, I recommend Everything Is Poison by Joy McCullough
- For fairy tale retellings: The Wildest Things by Andrea Hannah
Are there any YA book clubs on BookTok?
Yes, many BookTok creators host virtual book clubs through the platform. To find them:
- Search hashtags like #BookTokBookClub or #TikTokReadsWithMe
- Look for creators announcing monthly or weekly reads
- Check out #BookClubTok for dedicated book club content
- Follow publishers’ official TikTok accounts, as many host regular reading events
- Join live TikTok sessions where creators discuss books in real time
How do I write a YA book review for BookTok?
To create engaging YA book reviews for BookTok:
- Keep it concise—30-60 seconds is ideal
- Start with a hook (“This book destroyed me” or “The plot twist at 80% had me SCREAMING”)
- Avoid major spoilers unless clearly labeled
- Use visually appealing elements like the book cover or themed props
- Include your genuine emotional reaction
- Mention similar books for comparison
- Use trending sounds to increase visibility
- End with a clear rating or recommendation
Conclusion
BookTok has fundamentally changed how readers discover YA literature, creating a space where authentic enthusiasm trumps traditional marketing. The titles highlighted in this guide represent just a fraction of the incredible recommendations circulating on the platform, each finding its audience through the genuine connections formed between readers.
What makes these BookTok recommendations so valuable is that they come from real readers speaking honestly about books that moved them. Unlike curated bestseller lists or algorithm-generated suggestions, BookTok recommendations carry the weight of personal experience—the tears shed, the laughs shared, and the pages turned well past midnight.
As you explore these recommendations, remember that the true magic of BookTok lies in its diversity. No matter how niche your reading interests are, there’s likely a corner of BookTok creating content specifically for readers like you. The platform celebrates not just bestsellers but also overlooked gems, debut authors, and books that speak to underrepresented experiences.
Ready to dive into the world of BookTok recommendations? Start with a title that speaks to your current reading mood, share your thoughts online, and become part of this vibrant community that is reshaping the literary landscape one video at a time.
Have you discovered any favorite books through BookTok? Share your experiences in the comments below!
