BookTok has become a popular TikTok staple over the last couple of years. First made as a platform for readers to show their favorite books and make “bookish” jokes, BookTok also has given creators of all backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, and ages a way to connect over their love of reading.
Check out EnVi’s list of books recommended by Black BookTok below!
The Lore and Lust Series by Karla Nikole
Described as a “sexy, queer, modern vampire slow-burn romance” by the author Karla Nikole herself, the Lore and Lust series is perfect for the romantasy reader. With a bit of every trope, the series ties in all of BookTok’s favorite things: romance, fantasy, beautiful imagery, action, and strong depictions of emotion. Lore and Lust tells the story of purebred vampires conquering their societies and falling in love in the process. With handsome men, romance, fantasy, and gorgeous cover art, this series is an easy eye-catcher at the bookstore!
Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert
Highly recommended by content creator “compulsivebookbuyers,” Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert is a story about Chloe who, after almost dying, makes a list meant to get her that life she almost lost. After meeting Red, a guy she needs to help her be a rebel, the pair start to catch feelings. Written by New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Talia Hibbert, this romance will pull at your heartstrings like no other.
Legendborn by Tracy Deonn
Legendborn by Tracy Deonn is another page-turner about a powerful Black girl with natural hair. What more do you need to pick this one up? In the relatable Black BookToker Anjou’s TikTok, she describes this book perfectly: stressful in a good way. Legendborn tells the story of sixteen-year-old Bree who flees her home after the death of her mother. Unfortunately for Bree, magic will follow her everywhere. The story is an easy-to-read book that will have you stuck on your couch until you finish and will never let you forget about it. The good news is, Legendborn is only the first of its series, so when you’re finished reading, just go grab the second one!
My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite
Tierramademedoit on TikTok shows readers how My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite can relate to them through a well-thought-out review of why they love this book, with her main points being the suspense and the connection she felt with the character. My Sister, the Serial Killer is about Korede, the sister of a serial-killing sister named Ayoola. Korede refuses to give up on her sister — despite her wrongdoings — because family is the most important. However, when Korede falls in love with a man who could be a potential victim, she has to make the decision of a lifetime. A contemporary book with romance, crime, and family, author Oyinkan Braithwaite will have you rethinking everything you thought about your family.
When No One Is Watching by Alyssa Cole
“Whatever you think is happening, it’s a million times worse,” said creator Jaha in their review TikTok for When No One Is Watching. When No One is Watching is by New York Times-acclaimed author Alyssa Cole, who is looking to make you anxious while also making you think about societal issues as a Black person in America. The unputdownable book is about Sydney Green as she watches the gentrification of her Brooklyn neighborhood happen faster than she can breathe. When Sydney decides to dig deeper into this gentrification, scary truths that she could’ve never imagined come to light. A great way to end this list of books, this thriller is a terrifying look into modern-day Black societies being taken over by white neighbors. Don’t read this one at night!
Wanting more book recommendations from talented Black authors? Check out our gift guide with five more book recommendations here!
