7 Books That Took Me Completely by Surprise

Some books whisper their greatness from the very first page. Others sneak up on us, defying expectations, challenging our assumptions, and changing the way we think—often when we least expect it. Below is a list of 7 books that took me completely by surprise.

Whether it was a hidden gem in a genre we rarely touch, or a bestseller that shattered its hype with raw, resonant truth, these books caught us off guard—in the best way possible. This isn't just a reading list.

1. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

At first, a story about a widow forming a bond with a talking octopus might sound whimsical, even odd. But Remarkably Bright Creatures is quietly profound—an exploration of grief, memory, and unexpected healing. The octopus, Marcellus, is more than a narrative gimmick; he’s a wise, sharp observer whose perspective offers surprising emotional weight. Tova, the grieving protagonist, becomes a symbol of resilience, and her journey is one of reconnection and quiet redemption. What caught us off guard was how this quirky premise unfolds into a deeply human, heartwarming story about the loneliness we carry and the love that rescues us.

2. The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes

Inspired by the real-life Packhorse Librarians of Depression-era Kentucky, The Giver of Stars delivers a stirring tale of women defying societal norms to bring literacy to rural America. We expected a gentle historical fiction; we found a gripping, empowering narrative of resistance, friendship, and change. Moyes captures the harsh realities of the era—gender roles, poverty, and prejudice—while celebrating the transformative power of books. The female characters are vivid and inspiring, each on her own journey toward independence. What surprised us was how urgent and modern the themes felt, even in a historical setting. This is historical fiction with fire.

3. Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

From the author of The Martian, we expected science-laden survival. What we didn’t expect was to be emotionally gut-punched by a touching interstellar friendship. As he pieces things together, he meets Rocky, an alien whose language and physiology are as surprising as his loyalty. Their partnership becomes the emotional heart of the novel. Weir balances complex science with humor and heart, creating a compelling and unexpectedly emotional read. It’s rare to find a space adventure so rich in human (and non-human) connection.

4. Anxious People by Fredrik Backman

What seems like a quirky hostage comedy quickly unravels into a deeply emotional and profoundly human narrative. Backman’s story—centered around a failed bank robbery—becomes an intimate exploration of anxiety, forgiveness, and what it means to be human. Each character, flawed and beautifully written, reveals hidden pain beneath their surface personas. The book shifts effortlessly from laugh-out-loud moments to heartbreaking confessions, surprising us with its emotional intelligence. Backman doesn’t just write characters; he writes people you recognize. Anxious People is a clever, compassionate reminder that everyone carries a story we don’t see, and sometimes kindness is the bravest act of all.

5. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

A famous painter shoots her husband and never speaks another word—until one psychotherapist becomes obsessed with uncovering her silence. The Silent Patient hooks you instantly with this premise but delivers far more than a straightforward thriller. Michaelides masterfully constructs a psychological maze, pulling readers through unreliable narration, twisted backstories, and a chilling climax. The twist is genuinely shocking—expertly timed and completely earned. But beyond the suspense, the book also explores themes of identity, obsession, and trauma. It surprised us not just for the reveal, but for how intelligently and intricately it was executed. This one redefines what a twist ending means.

6. The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

Initially appearing as a whimsical tale set in a magical orphanage, The House in the Cerulean Sea quickly evolves into a deeply touching story about love, acceptance, and defying societal labels. Linus, a by-the-book caseworker, is sent to investigate six “dangerous” magical children—but finds a home, and ultimately, himself. Klune’s gentle prose wraps serious social commentary in warmth and humor. The children are enchanting, each symbolic of marginalized identities, and their journey toward belonging is surprisingly moving. This is a book that defies cynicism and invites empathy. What surprised us most? Its ability to feel both like fantasy and truth.

7. When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

Written by a neurosurgeon facing terminal lung cancer, When Breath Becomes Air is both memoir and philosophical reflection. Kalanithi’s voice is lucid, poetic, and deeply introspective, chronicling his transition from doctor to patient with heartbreaking clarity. What surprised us was not just the tragedy of his story, but the beauty of his thoughts on life, death, and what makes a life meaningful. This is not just a medical memoir; it’s a meditation on mortality, ambition, and the fragility of identity. It forces readers to pause and examine their own values and legacy. A stunning, unforgettable final gift from a brilliant mind.

Final Thoughts

Great stories do more than entertain—they shift something inside us. The 7 books we've shared here weren’t just good—they changed our expectations of what stories can be. They reminded us that surprise is still possible, even in a world of spoilers and algorithms.

So next time you're browsing, consider the book you normally wouldn't pick. That might just be the one that takes you by surprise—and stays with you forever.

Ready to be surprised? Start with any book on this list—you won’t regret it.