Let’s be honest—there are thousands of books out there, and not nearly enough time to read them all (unless you’ve secretly mastered speed-reading). That’s why a good book recommendation can be a lifesaver! If you’re wondering what to read next, stick around—I promise these are gems.
Fantasy (aka the best genre!)
The Crowns of Nyaxia – Carissa Broadbent
A dark fantasy series filled with deadly competitions, ruthless vampires, and high-stakes alliances. With a fierce protagonist and gripping twists, it’s perfect for fans of morally complex characters and intense action.
The series is still ongoing and will eventually consist of three duologies and several novellas. So far, the first three books and one novella have been straight five-star reads for me!
Throne of Glass – Sarah J. Maas
This gripping fantasy follows Celaena Sardothien, a deadly assassin pulled from prison to compete for a chance at freedom. But as dark forces stir and secrets unravel, she realizes there’s far more at stake than just survival. Packed with action, intrigue, and romance, this series is perfect for fans of fierce heroines and epic adventures.
If I could sell my soul to read this for the first time again, I would. This series will always and forever be my soul series—truly epic from the first page to the last.
Other Fantasy Must-Reads:
Anything by Tahereh Mafi, the Prison Healer series by Lynette Noni, When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker, and anything by Sarah J. Maas, V.E. Schwab, Rachel Gillig, or the Zodiac Academy series.
Thrillers
The Maid’s Diary – Loreth Anne White
A psychological thriller about a maid caught in a web of secrets and deception. As dark truths unravel, nothing is as it seems, keeping readers on edge until the shocking end.
I have never felt as manipulated by a book as I did reading this one—everything I thought I knew was completely wrong!
Five Survive – Holly Jackson
Six friends on a road trip become stranded—but it’s no accident. As a deadly game unfolds, secrets come to light, and not everyone will make it out alive. A fast-paced, twisty thriller that keeps you on edge until the last page.
The dread I felt in my stomach while reading this was unreal. It was terrifying, and I was completely at its mercy from page one—amazing.
Other Thrillers to Check Out:
Anything by Freida McFadden, Alex Michaelides, and Alice Feeney.
Romance
The Seven-Year Slip – Ashley Poston
Clementine West has sworn off risks and focused on work ever since the worst day of her life. But her routine is disrupted when she discovers a strange man in her kitchen—one with kind eyes, a crooked smile, and a recipe for lemon meringue pie. A story of love, sorrow, and a touch of magic, this book beautifully explores second chances and healing hearts.
This book was everything I didn’t expect. It took me on one of the most healing journeys I’ve ever experienced, and I loved every page.
Love Theoretically – Ali Hazelwood
Elsie, a physicist who’s great with theories but not so much with love, fakes a relationship to land a job. But soon, she starts questioning everything she thought she knew about romance. A funny, heartwarming love story with a nerdy twist!
You can pick up any Ali Hazelwood book and fall in love with it. Love Theoretically is my personal favorite, but honestly, they’re all pure bliss to read.
More Romance Favorites:
The Boys of Tommen series by Chloe Walsh, anything by Elsie Silver and Elle Kennedy, the Magnolia Parks series by Jessa Hastings, and books by Elena Armas and Taylor Jenkins Reid.
LGBTQ+ Reads
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo – Taylor Jenkins Reid
A reclusive Hollywood legend finally shares her scandalous life story with an unknown journalist. As secrets unravel, the truth behind her seven marriages—and her greatest love—is revealed. A gripping tale of fame, ambition, and forbidden love.
A brilliant book with so many twists and turns that had me gasping more than once. One of my all-time favorite recommendations!
Red, White & Royal Blue – Casey McQuiston
Alex, the First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry of Britain are sworn rivals—until an unexpected romance changes everything. As they navigate love, politics, and public pressure, they must decide if their relationship is worth the risk. A witty, heartwarming, and swoon-worthy LGBTQ+ romance.
The funniest and most painfully embarrassing book I’ve ever read. The amount of times I laughed out loud is insane!
Other LGBTQ+ Must-Reads:
Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall, Call Me by Your Name by André Aciman, The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller, and The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon.
And that’s it! Hopefully, you found your next great read in this list. Happy reading!
PS. I highly recommend the Goodreads app—it’s perfect for tracking your reading and following your friends’ book adventures!
Writer: Emma Hjalmarsson
