Romance
Romance novels are going strong, especially in the realms of contemporary, romantic comedies, and fantasy-infused love stories. The Hating Game by Sally Thorne is a playful office romance, while It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover offers a more intense, emotional exploration of love and relationships.
Fantasy & Science Fiction
Fantasy and sci-fi continue to dominate, with fantasy novels mixing in romantic elements (such as in A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas) or thought-provoking speculative narratives (The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin) exploring societal norms and alien cultures.
Young Adult (YA)
YA fiction is thriving with a mix of genres, including fantasy, romance, and coming-of-age stories. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins (a Hunger Games prequel) and They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera, a poignant tale of two teens living their last day, are strong examples of the emotional depth that YA can offer.
Mystery & Thriller
If you enjoy suspense and fast-paced plots, this genre remains a fan favorite. Books like The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides keep readers on the edge of their seats with twists and psychological intrigue, while Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty blends mystery with everyday life and dark humor.
Self-Help & Wellness
Books focused on personal growth, mental health, and well-being are more popular than ever. For actionable advice on forming better habits, Atomic Habits by James Clear is highly recommended. For those exploring trauma recovery and healing, The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk offers insightful guidance.
Historical Fiction
Historical fiction brings the past to life with compelling narratives. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is an emotionally charged story set during WWII, while The Book Thief by Markus Zusak tells a unique and heartbreaking tale during the same period, narrated by Death.
LGBTQ+ Fiction
LGBTQ+ narratives are growing in both visibility and variety. Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston is a romantic comedy about the son of the U.S. president and a British prince, while The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid explores fame, love, and complex identities in the Hollywood of the past.
Children’s Books
From picture books to middle-grade novels, children’s literature remains a beloved genre. Books like Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens offer younger audiences coming-of-age themes, while The Pigeon Needs a Bath! by Mo Willems continues to be a fun, interactive option for younger readers.
Graphic Novels
Graphic novels are gaining more respect and appeal, thanks to their mix of art and storytelling. Saga by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples is a sci-fi epic that mixes family drama with visual storytelling, while Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi offers a powerful autobiographical account of life during the Iranian Revolution.
Magical Realism
Books in the magical realism genre continue to captivate readers with their combination of the ordinary and the fantastical. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez is a legendary example, as is The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende, both of which blend historical and magical elements to tell sweeping family sagas.
