As we approach the dawn of 2025, many individuals are beginning to ponder their New Year’s resolutions. A popular resolution that aligns well with personal development is setting reading goals. If you are looking to dive into some engaging and popular literature, beginning with books by renowned bestselling authors is a worthy strategy. Over the past year, a multitude of authors has significantly influenced the literary scene, gaining immense popularity through new releases and rekindling interest in beloved classics.
The online reading community, particularly on platforms like BookTok, has been pivotal in promoting many of these authors. This TikTok-driven phenomenon showcases a variety of books, often leading to viral moments for certain titles. As such, readers in 2025 have a perfect opportunity to explore the works of some of the most talked-about authors of 2024 and beyond.
**1. Emily Henry**
Emily Henry has become synonymous with modern romance literature, celebrated for her accessible and enjoyable narratives. While she has been publishing novels since 2016, it was her breakout hit, “Beach Read,” released in 2020, that catapulted her to fame. Since then, she has delivered a stream of bestsellers that resonate with readers looking for heartfelt tales. Following “Beach Read,” Henry produced “People We Meet on Vacation,” and “Book Lovers,” capturing the essence of love and friendship. Most recently, her 2024 release, “Funny Story,” continues her trend of captivating storytelling, with fans eagerly awaiting her next project.
**2. Sarah J. Maas**
Sarah J. Maas is a titan in the fantasy genre, known for her captivating storytelling and richly developed worlds. Her series, including the “A Court of Thorns and Roses” (ACOTAR) and “Throne of Glass,” has maintained a loyal following, further propelled by the enthusiasm of BookTok communities. Maas’s gripping narratives weave intricate plots that enthrall readers, where romance blends seamlessly with fantasy elements. The latest installment of the ACOTAR series, “A Court of Silver Flames,” along with her newest fantasy series, “Crescent City,” further exemplifies her prolific output and popularity.
**3. Freida McFadden**
If you gravitate towards mystery and thrillers, Freida McFadden’s work is essential. Known for her acclaimed “The Housemaid” series, which has resonated deeply with readers, McFadden has successfully released a third installment, “The Housemaid is Watching.” The excitement surrounding her work includes plans for a movie adaptation of the first book, showcasing her story’s cinematic appeal. Besides this series, her standalone thrillers like “The Teacher” and “The Boyfriend” have further expanded her repertoire and maintained her captivating storytelling that many readers adore.
**4. Kristin Hannah**
With an impressive catalog of more than 20 novels, Kristin Hannah is a staple in historical fiction. Her recent release, “The Women,” which tells the poignant story of a nurse during the Vietnam War, has solidified her status as a top-selling author. Readers can also explore her previous works, including “The Nightingale,” set during World War II, and “Four Winds,” released in 2021. Her ability to write compelling narratives with rich historical contexts makes her books a must-read for those who appreciate the depth of historical fiction.
**5. Christina Lauren**
The dynamic author duo Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings, known as Christina Lauren, has become synonymous with contemporary romance. Their well-crafted novels, especially “The Unhoneymooners,” have garnered them a dedicated readership. With their latest release, “The Paradise Problem,” in 2024, they continue to enchant audiences with their charming and witty storytelling. Their ability to blend humor with romance strikes a chord with readers, making their books irresistible.
**6. Ali Hazelwood**
Ali Hazelwood brings a unique flavor to romance, intertwining her experiences as a former PhD student in neuroscience with her writing. Her debut, “The Love Hypothesis,” became an instant classic, leading to further novel releases like “Love on the Brain.” In 2024, Hazelwood released two new works, “Not in Love” and “Bride,” with exciting prospects for her upcoming book, “Dead End,” generating anticipation among her readers eager for more academic romances.
**7. Lucy Foley**
Lucy Foley’s engaging mysteries captivate audiences with narrative twists and compelling plots. With notable titles like “The Guest List” and “The Paris Apartment,” Foley’s 2024 release, “The Midnight Feast,” adds to her growing list of enthralling reads. Her consistent output over recent years positions her as a steady favorite for fans craving well-crafted mysteries.
**8. Rebecca Yarros**
Rebecca Yarros has made a significant impact with her fantasy series, “Fourth Wing,” capturing widespread attention on TikTok. Set within the action-packed world of dragons and romance, her books—”Fourth Wing” and “Iron Flame”