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

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

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

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

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

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 rent was that cheap, even if I would never meet the strict requirements of being a tenant. What made this a strong psychological thriller for me was how it kept me engaged and entertained from start to finish. The anxiety it created was the good kind, the kind that keeps you flipping pages late at night. My only warning is not to judge the book by the HBO adaptation, since the show is only loosely based on this novel. This thriller worked for me, though I can see why it might not land with every reader of the genre.

2025 Recommendation Scale

One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid

What a masterpiece of emotion. This novel delivers a true love triangle because the main character genuinely loves both men, and her dilemma feels raw and real. If you are in your late twenties or older, you will probably understand her struggle on a deeper level. Love hurts and commitment hurts, and the question of who she will choose kept me hooked until the end. I’ll admit I still had my favorite male interest, but following Emma’s emotions was both heartbreaking and enlightening, and yes, I cried more than once. For fans of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, Malibu Rising, or the Daisy Jones book, this story carries the same emotional depth, complex relationships, and unforgettable characters that Taylor Jenkins Reid is known for. It has easily become one of my favorite works from her.

2025 Recommendation Scale

The Soulmate by Sally Hepworth

This book was just okay for me. It felt like a very average read, the kind of domestic thriller book that can be hit or miss, and unfortunately this one was a miss. The premise had some moments of suspense, but overall I was not impressed by the outcome and it did not stick with me after finishing. If you are looking to explore Sally Hepworth books, I would recommend starting with The Mother-in-Law (2019), which is far more engaging and memorable. Unless you are already a dedicated fan of Hepworth’s writing, I would probably skip this particular thriller. She has stronger novels that showcase her talent much better than this one.

2025 Recommendation Scale

The Bodyguard by Katherine Center

Ohhhhhhhh, this was such a fun romance to read. I absolutely love a celebrity romance book, and this one doubles down with the bodyguard romance trope. On top of that, it mixes in cowboys and a fake dating romance storyline, which made it even more entertaining. Don’t worry, there is no spice here—no sexual scenes—just pure romance and heartfelt connection between the two leads. The story delivers a satisfying HEA (happily ever after) ending, which makes it worth picking up. Sometimes on your romance reading journey you just want a story that focuses completely on the romance without extra drama, and this book is exactly that.

2025 Recommendation Scale

The Long Walk by Stephen King

What a genius work that made me feel disgusted, fearful, and filled with anxiety from start to finish. This is pure horror, through and through. Following a young man’s journey of survival, the inner monologue of the main character is brilliantly written. The slow deterioration of the human psyche from days without sleep and constant exercise is terrifyingly real, and some scenes are heartbreakingly vivid. I still think about Stephen King’s The Long Walk even two years later. Originally published under Richard Bachman, this is one of the shorter novels in King’s body of work, yet the memories it leaves are unforgettable. I can’t wait for the new Stephen King movie adaptation coming out on September 16th, 2025. Fans of Stephen King filmography will definitely want to add this classic story to their watchlist.

2025 Recommendation Scale

Revisiting these once-hyped books reveals that while some have stood the test of time, others have faded into the background. Whether you’re seeking emotional depth, thrilling suspense, or thought-provoking narratives, there’s a book here for every reader. As we move further into 2025, it’s essential to discern which titles continue to resonate and which ones might be better left on the shelf. Happy reading!

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