Discover the Top 10 Viral Books on BookTok for January! 📚✨ From swoon-worthy romances to gripping thrillers, see what’s trending and why readers can’t stop talking about these must-reads! #BookTok
BookTok continues shaping the literary world, turning hidden gems into bestsellers and bringing fresh buzz to new releases and beloved classics. Every month, readers flock to TikTok to share emotional reviews, aesthetic book stacks, and tearful reactions to the latest viral reads. In January 2025, a mix of gripping thrillers, heartwarming romances, and imaginative fantasy novels took over the platform, sparking countless discussions and recommendations. If you’re looking for your next great read, here are the Top 10 Viral Books on BookTok this month!
As of January 2025, several books have gained significant popularity on BookTok, captivating readers with their compelling narratives and engaging themes. Here are some of the most talked-about titles this month:

1️⃣ The King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby
📖“King of Ashes” by S.A. Cosby is an upcoming Southern crime novel, scheduled for release on June 10, 2025. The story follows Roman Carruthers, who returns to his hometown after his father’s car accident, only to find his family entangled in dangerous criminal activities. As Roman confronts these threats, he uncovers long-buried family secrets and must decide how far he’s willing to go to protect his loved ones.
💬 Why It’s Viral: A dark family drama set in an Atlanta crematorium, this novel delves into complex familial relationships and secrets. Its gripping narrative has made it a favorite among BookTok users.
🔗 Where to Buy: [amazon.com]

2️⃣ Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez
📖“Say You’ll Remember Me” by Abby Jimenez is a contemporary romance novel scheduled for release on April 1, 2025. The story follows Samantha, a social media marketer, and Xavier, a veterinarian, who experience an immediate connection after a chance meeting. They share an unforgettable date, but Samantha’s family crisis forces her to move across the country, leading her to ask Xavier to forget their night together. Despite the distance and personal challenges, they find it difficult to move on, exploring themes of love, family obligations, and the complexities of long-distance relationships
💬 Why It’s Viral: An emotional romance novel that delves into themes of love, memory, and second chances. Its heartfelt storytelling has resonated deeply with readers.
🔗 Where to Buy: [amazon.com]

3️⃣ Black Salt Queen by Samantha Bansil
📖“Black Salt Queen” by Samantha Bansil is a forthcoming fantasy novel set in the pre-colonial island nation of Maynara, where women wield divine powers and navigate a society filled with secrets and political intrigue.
“Black Salt Queen” is scheduled for release on June 3, 2025, and is available for pre-order through various retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Target.
💬 Why It’s Viral: Set on a pre-colonial island, this story is rich in romance and magic, exploring themes of power and destiny. Its lush world-building and captivating plot have garnered significant attention.
🔗 Where to Buy: [amazon.com]

4️⃣ Well, Actually by Mazey Eddings
📖“Well, Actually” by Mazey Eddings is a contemporary romance novel scheduled for release on August 5, 2025. The story centers on Eva Kitt, who finds herself hosting “Sausage Talk,” a show where she interviews B-list celebrities over lukewarm hot dogs, a far cry from her journalism aspirations. One evening, after consuming a bottle of Prosecco, Eva stumbles upon a video of her ex, Rylie Cooper, who has transformed into a social media personality advocating for the deconstruction of toxic masculinity. Doubting his authenticity, Eva publicly calls him out, and the video goes viral. In response, Rylie proposes a series of dates to demonstrate his personal growth, which they document on his channel. As these orchestrated dates progress, Eva begins to question whether the man who once hurt her might now be the one to heal her.
💬 Why It’s Viral: This novel explores the complexities of viral internet fame and its impact on personal relationships, offering a nuanced look at modern life.
🔗 Where to Buy: [amazon.com]

5️⃣ The Charmer by Ava Rani
📖“The Charmer” by Ava Rani is a contemporary romance novel scheduled for release on May 13, 2025. It is the third and final installment in the Biotech Billionaires series. The story follows Penelope Chen-Astor, a high-powered Manhattan lawyer who left behind her affluent family in Singapore to pursue independence. Her plans are disrupted when her late grandfather’s will stipulates that she must be married for a year to claim her inheritance—a condition that also affects her mother’s financial security.
💬 Why It’s Viral: Featuring a rich man and his fake wife, this story delves into themes of deception, love, and personal growth, captivating readers with its intriguing plot.
🔗 Where to Buy: [amazon.com]

6️⃣ The Crash by Freida McFadden
📖“The Crash” by Freida McFadden is a psychological thriller that follows Tegan, an eight-month pregnant woman seeking refuge from her troubled life. While driving to her brother’s home during a blizzard, she loses control of her car and crashes in rural Maine, resulting in a broken ankle. Stranded and vulnerable, Tegan is rescued by a seemingly benevolent couple who offer her shelter in their cabin until the storm passes. However, as time progresses, she begins to sense that her hosts may have ulterior motives, and the safe haven she thought she’d found becomes increasingly perilous. Tegan must navigate this treacherous situation to protect herself and her unborn child.
💬 Why It’s Viral: A gripping psychological thriller that delves into the aftermath of a devastating accident, exploring themes of memory, identity, and trust. Readers have praised its unexpected twists and compelling narrative.
🔗 Where to Buy: [amazon.com]

7️⃣ Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney
📖“Beautiful Ugly” by Alice Feeney is a psychological thriller that delves into themes of love, loss, and the elusive nature of reality. The narrative follows Grady Green, a successful author whose life unravels when his wife, Abby, mysteriously disappears after stopping to help someone on the roadside. A year later, consumed by grief and unable to write, Grady retreats to a secluded Scottish island in hopes of regaining his creative spark. There, he encounters unsettling events and individuals, including a woman who bears a striking resemblance to his missing wife. As Grady grapples with his perceptions and the island’s eerie atmosphere, he is forced to confront the possibility that not everything is as it seems. The novel is renowned for its suspenseful narrative and unexpected twists, keeping readers engaged until the final page.
💬 Why It’s Viral: This novel intricately weaves a tale of secrets and deception, challenging perceptions of beauty and truth. Its suspenseful plot and rich character development have captivated readers.
🔗 Where to Buy: [amazon.com]

8️⃣ Beg, Borrow, or Steal by Sarah Adams
📖“Beg, Borrow, or Steal” by Sarah Adams is a contemporary romance novel released on January 7, 2025. Set in the charming town of Rome, Kentucky, the story centers on Emily Walker and Jack Bennett, two second-grade teachers who have been rivals since their college days. Emily, who leads a double life as a romance writer, is content with Jack’s absence after he leaves town with his fiancée. However, her world is upended when Jack returns, newly single, and moves in next door. Their animosity reaches new heights until Emily accidentally sends an email to their school principal that could expose her secret writing career. In need of assistance, she reluctantly turns to Jack for help. As they collaborate to retrieve the email, their relationship evolves from adversaries to something more, challenging their perceptions of each other and themselves.
💬 Why It’s Viral: A heartwarming romance that follows the journey of two individuals navigating life’s challenges and discovering love in unexpected places. Its charming storyline and relatable characters have resonated with many.
🔗 Where to Buy: [amazon.com]

9️⃣ Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix
📖”Witchcraft for Wayward Girls” by Grady Hendrix is a horror novel set in 1970 at the Wellwood House in St. Augustine, Florida—a home for unwed mothers where young pregnant girls are sent to have their babies in secret and then give them up for adoption. The story follows fifteen-year-old Fern, who arrives at Wellwood feeling isolated and afraid. There, she befriends other girls in similar situations, including Rose, a free-spirited hippie determined to keep her baby; Zinnia, an aspiring musician planning to marry her child’s father
💬 Why It’s Viral: Blending elements of horror and dark humor, this novel explores the lives of young women entangled in mysterious and supernatural events. Its unique narrative has intrigued a wide audience.
🔗 Where to Buy: [amazon.com]

🔟 The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis
📖The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis is a historical fiction novel that intertwines two timelines:
Egypt, 1936: Anthropology student Charlotte Cross secures a position on an archaeological dig in the Valley of the Kings. Following a personal tragedy, she returns to New York City.
New York City, 1978: Nineteen-year-old Annie Jenkins becomes an assistant to former Vogue fashion editor Diana Vreeland, who is organizing the Met Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
💬 Why It’s Viral: Set against a historical backdrop, this novel delves into a tale of intrigue, power, and hidden identities within a royal court. Readers have been captivated by its rich storytelling and vivid descriptions.
🔗 Where to Buy: [amazon.com]
From thrilling mysteries to swoon-worthy romances and thought-provoking fantasies, these 10 viral books have captured the hearts of BookTok readers this January. Whether you’re in the mood for an emotional rollercoaster, a cozy romance, or an edge-of-your-seat suspense novel, these trending titles offer something for everyone. Be sure to check them out and join the conversation—because on BookTok, every book has the potential to become your next favorite! Stay tuned for next month’s list of must-read viral books! 📚✨