But in case you’re somehow unaware of this community, BookTok is a subculture on the streaming platform, where creators provide their reviews, recommendations, and in-depth analysis of books and literature, thus significantly influencing book sales and trends. As Taylor Jenkins Reid has attested in multiple interviews, BookTok resurrected her novel The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo in 2022—a book that didn’t see nearly as much fanfare when it first debuted in 2017.
Given the immense impact BookTok has had on the literary world, it’s only natural to ask: Are the novels that millions of BookTokers are gushing about actually worth the hype? Well, this World Book Day, we’re here to break down which ones truly deserve the buzz, while sharing the novels we believe are overhyped and underhyped. And, as the hospitality experts you know us to be, we’ll also share our favorite cocktail and spirits books that have had the most influence on our careers.
Appropriately Hyped
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
From the very first page, Fourth Wing pulls you in with its electrifying mix of romance, high-stakes action, and a richly imaginative fantasy world. Set in a brutal war college for dragon riders, the book centers on Violet Sorrengail—a physically fragile yet fiercely determined and brilliant heroine—who must survive deadly trials, ruthless rivals, and an unexpectedly swoonworthy romance with Xaden Riorson. The fast-paced storytelling keeps you hooked from start to finish, while the deeply lovable characters (both human and dragon) and their intense dynamics make this book impossible to put down.
Normal People by Sally Rooney
A rather raw, realistic depiction of the complexities of love, class, self-identity, and the struggles of growing up, Sally Rooney’s Normal People resonates deeply. Told from the perspectives of the two main characters, Connell and Marianne, the novel follows their on-again, off-again relationship through the messiness of young adulthood, while also facing the weight of social class, mental health challenges, and the crippling power of miscommunication. While the writing is minimalistic, it enhances the emotional honesty and quiet intensity that Rooney aims to portray. Universally relatable, the book reflects the bittersweet nature of young love, personal growth, and self-discovery.
The Hulu adaptation of Normal People is the closest reimagining of a book-to-TV series I’ve ever seen. Plus, my heart melted when I learned that actor Paul Mescal (Connell) gifted Daisy Edgar-Jones (Marianne) the chain necklace his character wore throughout the show.
Overhyped
The Housemaid is Watching by Freida McFadden
While The Housemaid and The Housemaid’s Secret lived up to the hype with their addictive, fast-paced twists, the third installment, The Housemaid Is Watching, falls disappointingly flat. We’ve come to expect McFadden’s signature shocking reveals, but this time, the twist feels underwhelming and lacks believability. Worse, the defining traits that made Millie and Enzo such compelling characters—Millie’s deep empathy for the vulnerable and Enzo’s fierce protectiveness, especially toward Millie—are completely absent, making the novel feel disconnected from the others in the series.
Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score
Lucy Score’s Things We Never Got Over follows the familiar small-town rom-com trope, but unlike the standouts in the genre, it misses the mark. Despite its popularity on BookTok, the dialogue lacks engagement, the characters feel one-dimensional, and the plot is both unrealistic and overly drawn out, making its widespread hype rather perplexing. Perhaps Score’s other books in the series are stronger, but when the first installment disappoints, it’s hard to feel compelled to continue.
Underhyped
The Wish by Nicholas Sparks
While Nicholas Sparks is widely recognized as a well-deserved literary staple; his earlier works like The Notebook and A Walk to Remember have cemented his reputation as a master of emotional storytelling. However, one of his more recent novels, The Wish, has quietly stood out and deserves more attention. This deeply moving story weaves together themes of teen pregnancy, parental expectations, cancer, and first love, making it one of Sparks’ most compelling works. With heartfelt storytelling, deeply lovable characters, and backstories that tug at your heartstrings, The Wish is a standout novel that lingers long after the final page.
My Husband by Maud Ventura, Emma Ramadan (Translator)
Originally written in French by Maud Ventura, and later translated into English by Emma Ramadan, My Husband is a gripping psychological thriller. With a dark, unsettling tone, the novel delves into the complexities of a troubled marriage, offering a deep exploration of obsession, control, and the fine line between love and manipulation. The story follows a woman’s intense and consuming relationship with her husband, revealing layers of emotional tension and suspense as secrets begin to unravel. What sets My Husband apart is its brilliant character study and the way Ventura skillfully builds a sense of claustrophobia and psychological unease. With its sharp writing, psychological depth, and unpredictable twists, My Husband is a novel that deserves a spot on more readers’ radars, especially for those who crave a thought-provoking, page-turning thriller.
RHC’s Favorite Hospitality Books
Imbibe! by David Wondrich
As one of the most influential books in the drinks community, Imbibe! goes beyond just recipes with David Wondrich giving a thorough exploration of the history of cocktails through masterful storytelling and meticulous research. Focused on the legacy of Jerry Thomas—the 19th-century bartender who helped define cocktail culture—the novel explores the origins of iconic drinks, forgotten techniques, and the evolution of bartending, making it an essential read for bartenders or anyone who appreciates the art of a well-made cocktail.
The Tequila Ambassador V.O. by Phil Bayly, Mitch Wilson, and Jesse Estes
The Tequila Ambassador V.O. is a tribute to the late drinks industry icon Tomas Estes, whose passion for agave spirits shaped the global tequila landscape. Originally published in 2012, The Tequila Ambassador was considered the most formative work on the subject, capturing Estes’ decades-long journey as an educator and founder of Tequila Ocho. This expanded edition, compiled from his journal entries, articles, and final interviews, offers an even deeper look into his legacy. Brought to life by Phil Bayly, Mitch Wilson, and Tomas’ son Jesse Estes, The Tequila Ambassador V.O. ensures that his knowledge, passion, and impact continue to inspire the next generation of agave spirits enthusiasts.
A Proper Drink by Robert Simonson
A Proper Drink by Robert Simonson is the ultimate chronicle of the modern cocktail renaissance, capturing how bartenders, bars, and innovators reshaped the drinks industry. Through extensive interviews and firsthand accounts, Simonson traces the revival of the classic cocktail movement from the late 20th century to today, spotlighting the key figures, trends, and iconic cocktails that defined this time. The book is a love letter to the craft, offering an insider’s perspective on how the cocktail world evolved from sugary-sweet drinks to expertly crafted cocktails.
Liquid Intelligence by Dave Arnold
An exploration of the science behind modern cocktails, Dave Arnold’s Liquid Intelligence offers an in-depth look at the techniques, tools, and technology that revolutionized the world of cocktails. In this book, Arnold dives into the chemistry of drinks, explaining how small tweaks in ingredients and techniques can drastically improve flavor and texture. The novel covers everything from sous-vide infusions to the science of carbonation, making it an essential resource for both professional bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts eager to understand the science behind crafting the perfect drink.
Black Mixcellence: A Comprehensive Guide to Black Mixology by Tamika Hall & Colin Asare-Appiah
From Tamika Hall and Colin Asare-Appiah, Black Mixcellence is an essential cocktail book that celebrates the impact of Black bartenders, chefs, and spirits creators in shaping the modern drinks landscape. This guide highlights both historical and contemporary Black figures in the bartending and cocktail world, offering insight into their craft and creativity. Filled with detailed drink recipes, bartender tips, and rich cultural context, it serves as a resource for those eager to explore the innovative contributions Black professionals have made to the cocktail world.
