Are These Once-Hyped Books Still Worth Reading Today?
When a book first hits the shelves, it often gets a wave of excitement, glowing reviews, and plenty of hype. But what happens after the buzz fades? In this post, we’re taking a fresh look at popular books from two years ago to answer the big question: are these books still worth reading today? Whether you’re searching for must-read novels, timeless non-fiction, or simply wondering which books still hold up after a couple of years, this guide will help you decide which titles deserve a spot on your reading list in 2025. Back in 2023, I was just starting my reading journey, diving into everything from bestselling fiction to thought-provoking non-fiction. I wanted to explore different genres to figure out what truly clicked with me, and honestly, that journey was just as exciting as the stories themselves. I always tell fellow readers: don’t box yourself into one category, sometimes the must-read books you least expect become the ones you love most. And let’s be real: popular books are popular for a reason, millions of readers can’t all be wrong, right? … right? But here’s the real question: two years later, do those books still hold up? In this article, I’m revisiting 10 of the books I read in 2023 to find out which ones are still worth reading in 2025—and which ones have lost their shine. In Five Years by Rebecca Serle When I first picked up this book, it moved me in the best way possible. The emotional storytelling combined with touches of magical realism kept me turning the pages from start to finish. It was much more than the average contemporary romance novel. While it doesn’t deliver a traditional happily ever after, the story feels honest and thought-provoking. The ending leaves you reflecting on life, love, and friendships in a meaningful way. If you’re at the start of your reading journey and looking for a book that challenges you to think about the future and the choices we make, this is definitely a must-read novel to add to your list. 2025 Recommendation Scale 0% Buy on Bookshop.org Buy on Amazon Read on Kindle The 7 ½ deaths of Everyln Hardcastle by Stuart Turton Crazy plot—that’s exactly how I’d describe this murder mystery. Honestly, I loved it because I couldn’t predict what was going to happen, and it kept me hooked until the very last page. If you’re looking for a straightforward or basic thriller, this definitely isn’t it. I really enjoyed the multiple POVs and the unique structure, where each day felt different yet eerily the same. Out of all the books I read in 2023, this one stands out as my favorite because it was such a fun and unpredictable read. As a reader, you’re constantly second-guessing yourself, and that’s what makes it so brilliant. I honestly wish I could experience it again for the first time. 2025 Recommendation Scale 0% Buy on Bookshop.org Buy on Amazon Read on Kindle The Push by Ashley Audrain I absolutely loved this psychological thriller novel, and it’s no surprise it was chosen as a GMA Book Club Pick. This book made me fall in love with the concept of the unreliable narrator in thrillers, keeping me hooked from start to finish. The mystery is gripping, full of twists and tension that kept me guessing. Following the story of a mother navigating fear, anxiety, and uncertainty felt like mental gymnastics in the best way, pulling me deeper into the suspense. It’s one of those thriller books you can’t put down—and even two years later, I still find myself thinking about it. If I could experience this chilling page-turner again for the first time, I absolutely would. 2025 Recommendation Scale 0% Buy on Bookshop.org Buy on Amazon Read on Kindle The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah This is by far my favorite Kristin Hannah book and an absolute literary masterpiece. If you’re looking for an emotional novel that will make you cry, this is the one to read. Hannah’s storytelling is so vivid that I felt like I was right there with the characters, experiencing their hopes, fears, and struggles alongside them. The way she writes about women’s relationships, resilience, and hardships is both powerful and unforgettable. There are moments from this story that live rent-free in my head, and I know I’ll carry them with me forever. Truly, this is one of those heartbreaking yet beautiful books that proves why Kristin Hannah is one of the best contemporary authors today. 2025 Recommendation Scale 0% Buy on Bookshop.org Buy on Amazon Read on Kindle Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus Yeah, I had my issues with this book and still do. I went in thinking the story would focus more on the television show, but it was not as central as I expected. I also thought this might be more of a love language story about rowing, and to be honest, there is a lot of rowing in this book. I would even call it a sports storyline because of how much space it takes up. Then there is 69, the dog with human-like intelligence, which was surprising and makes this one of those books with non human characters that really stand out. I did love the mother and daughter bond, as well as Elizabeth’s struggles in STEM and the way her story highlights the challenges women faced. A lot of other readers gave this book a high rating and it is clearly popular for a reason, but I personally did not connect with it. At the end of the day, I still have my issues with this bestselling book. 2025 Recommendation Scale 0% Buy on Bookshop.org Buy on Amazon Read on Kindle The Girl Before by JP Delaney This is a quick read that falls into the category of psychological thriller books with past and present timelines. Honestly, I really enjoyed it. The premise was creepy at times, but as a broke millennial I could absolutely see myself living here if the