Five Viral Books That Are Actually Worth The Read

 

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When looking for your next read, it can be hard to figure out which books are worth it. Thanks to social media, there are gorgeous new books constantly trending all over Tik Tok and Instagram, and while they definitely look amazing – they’re often pretty lacklustre when you actually get stuck in. We’ve taken the liberty of reading some of these viral books (yes, okay, we did get a little sucked in by their covers) and picking out five fab reads, where the content actually matches the hype. Happy reading!

1. Circe, Madeleine Miller

In a glittering retelling of an ancient Greek myth, Circe follows the story of a rejected daughter of the gods, scorned for not being as beautiful or skilled as her siblings. It’s bold, adventurous and empowering, bound to reignite your passion for feminism. Plus, there’s a bunch of ancient Greek easter eggs for any history buffs. Love! You can buy it here.

2. Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine, Gail Honeyman

Eleanor Oliphant is completely fine, except for the fact that she isn’t. This moving and unpredictable book about an oddball who just can’t seem to fit in will melt your heart, and remind you to be kind to those who are different (and at times, difficult.) There’s rumours swirling that Reese Witherspoon may play Eleanor in an upcoming adaptation too – eek! Buy it here.

3. Detransition, Baby, Brit Bennett

Phew – this book is powerful. Savagely funny and heartachingly sad, Detransition, Baby follows an unorthodox relationship between three women who are grappling with their identity and their desires. It’s a fantastic exploration of what it means to be a trans woman today, and you’ll be hooked from page one. Check it out here!

4.The Beekeeper of Aleppo, Christy Lefteri

With some of the most beautiful writing we’ve ever encountered, The Beekeeper of Aleppo is a tragic and touching novel following the journey of a beekeeper and his wife as they flee the Syrian war. It’s a stark and honest exploration of what it means to be a refugee, and it will stick with you long after you’ve finished it. Buy it here.

5.The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, Taylor Reid Jenkins

Possibly the most discussed book of last year, The Seven Husbands Of Evelyn Hugo is a glamorous and scandalous tale following a famous actress through the decades, each section dedicated to one of her many partners. It’s an automatic page turner, filled with twists and turns that will keep you on your toes – and, unsurprisingly, Netflix are making it into a movie! Buy it here.

Words by Aoife Codykane