7 Books Everyone Should Read Right Now

Ever feel like everyone’s reading that one book and you’re missing out? You’re not alone. People want unputdownable reads—books that make them stay up until 3 a.m., whispering, “just one more chapter.”

Whether it’s spicy fantasy romance, shocking thrillers, or life-changing nonfiction, we've rounded up the top 7 books everyone should read right now.

1. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

Remarkably Bright Creatures is a quirky and heartwarming debut that will completely surprise you—in the best way. It follows Tova, a lonely widow working the night shift at an aquarium, and Marcellus, a mischievous giant Pacific octopus who might just be smarter than most humans. Yep, an octopus. Through alternating perspectives (yes, including Marcellus’s), this novel explores grief, healing, and the unexpected bonds that can change our lives. It’s charming without being cheesy, emotional without being heavy. If you’re in the mood for something fresh, funny, and full of hope, this book will absolutely steal your heart.

2. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

Nora, overwhelmed by despair, finds herself in a mystical library between life and death—where each book contains a version of her life had she made different choices. From becoming a rock star to living in Australia, she gets to try on different futures. It’s a beautiful reminder that every life has meaning, even when it feels small. With an accessible blend of fantasy and philosophy, this book resonates deeply.

3. Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

The highly-anticipated sequel to Fourth Wing, Iron Flame picks up right where the action left off—and it doesn’t slow down for a second. Violet is back at Basgiath War College, but this time the enemies aren’t just dragons and rivals—they're within the walls. Rebecca Yarros raises the stakes emotionally and physically, leaving fans gasping at every chapter’s end. It’s the kind of sequel that somehow hits harder than the original.

4. Before We Were Strangers by Renée Carlino

A heartfelt second-chance romance that’ll hit you right in the nostalgia, Before We Were Strangers follows Matt and Grace—two college soulmates who drifted apart, only to reunite years later by chance in a New York subway. Told through alternating timelines, this novel is packed with longing, miscommunication, and the kind of emotional honesty that stays with you. It explores how timing can make or break a love story—and whether true connection can survive the years. If you’ve ever wondered about “the one that got away,” this beautifully written book will make you want to text your college crush.

5. Atomic Habits by James Clear

Atomic Habits isn’t your typical self-help book. James Clear takes the overwhelming idea of transformation and breaks it down into tiny, achievable wins. The core idea? Big results come from small changes repeated consistently. Clear offers practical frameworks, like habit stacking and identity reinforcement, that make building good habits feel doable—even fun. It’s smart, actionable, and written with zero fluff. Whether you want to work out more, scroll less, or just get your life together, this book offers tools you can use immediately. No wonder it’s still topping bestseller lists years after its release—it’s that effective and empowering.

6. The Creative Act by Rick Rubin

Legendary music producer Rick Rubin turns the typical creative advice book inside out in The Creative Act. Instead of step-by-step instructions, he offers meditative reflections on how to live as a creative person. It’s poetic, spiritual, and sometimes abstract—but that’s the point. Rubin’s perspective is that creativity isn’t about output; it’s about presence. He encourages readers to slow down, tune in, and trust the process. Whether you’re a writer, artist, musician, or just someone trying to see the world differently, this book feels like a soulful guide. It’s less “how to create” and more “how to be creative.”

7. The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley

One of 2025’s buzziest debuts, The Ministry of Time blends time travel, government conspiracy, and speculative fiction in a novel that feels both futuristic and frighteningly plausible. A civil servant is tasked with managing a Victorian time traveler brought into the present—and things get weird, fast. It’s part sci-fi, part romance, and part dark satire. Early reviewers are calling it “clever, haunting, and utterly original.” If you like your fiction smart, stylish, and just a little strange, this book is one you’ll want to devour—and discuss.

Why These Books Matter

These books matter because they speak to us—not just to our tastes, but to our times. They reflect our anxieties, our dreams, our need for hope, healing, or just plain adventure.

They’re not just stories or guides. They’re conversations we’re all quietly having—about love, fear, purpose, growth, and belonging. That’s why everyone is searching for them. Because at the end of the day, the right book doesn’t just entertain you... it finds you. And maybe, just maybe, it changes you too.

Conclusion

Whether you're into dragons, deep secrets, or daily habits, there’s something trending for you. These 7 books aren't just popular—they’re personal, powerful, and 100% worth the hype.