The Best 10 Underrated Novels You Need to Read

Introduction

In the vast world of literature, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered. While bestsellers often dominate the spotlight, some truly remarkable novels remain underappreciated. These underrated works offer unique perspectives, unforgettable characters, and compelling narratives that deserve more attention. In this article, we'll explore ten of the best underrated novels that you need to add to your reading list.

Criteria for Selection

To curate this list, we focused on novels that have been overshadowed by their contemporaries, received limited publicity, or belong to niche genres. Despite their relative obscurity, these books have garnered critical acclaim, boast strong reader reviews, and exhibit originality and cultural impact.

1. "The Shadow of the Wind" by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

Brief Summary: Set in post-World War II Barcelona, this novel follows a young boy named Daniel who discovers a mysterious book that leads him into a labyrinth of secrets.

Unique Features: Rich, atmospheric writing; intricate plot; deep exploration of themes like memory and identity.

Why It’s Underrated: Despite being a bestseller in Spain, it didn't achieve the same level of recognition globally.

Notable Reviews: Praised by critics for its compelling storytelling and complex characters.

2. "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern

Brief Summary: Two young magicians, Celia and Marco, are bound in a lifelong competition within the magical, ever-changing confines of the Night Circus.

Unique Features: Vivid, imaginative descriptions; enchanting atmosphere; nonlinear narrative.

Why It’s Underrated: Gained a cult following but didn't reach mainstream bestseller status.

Notable Reviews: Acclaimed for its enchanting prose and immersive world-building.

3. "Neverwhere" by Neil Gaiman

Brief Summary: Richard Mayhew's life changes forever when he helps a girl named Door, leading him into the mysterious and dangerous world of London Below.

Unique Features: Dark, whimsical urban fantasy; clever social commentary; unforgettable characters.

Why It’s Underrated: Often overshadowed by Gaiman's other works like "American Gods" and "Coraline."

Notable Reviews: Celebrated for its originality and Gaiman's masterful storytelling.

4. "The Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller

Brief Summary: A retelling of the Iliad from the perspective of Patroclus, exploring his relationship with Achilles.

Unique Features: Lyrical prose; deep emotional resonance; fresh perspective on a classic tale.

Why It’s Underrated: Initially received modest attention compared to other myth retellings.

Notable Reviews: Won the Orange Prize for Fiction and praised for its beautifully crafted narrative.

5. "A Visit from the Goon Squad" by Jennifer Egan

Brief Summary: A series of interconnected stories that explore the lives of an aging music producer and his assistant, spanning multiple decades.

Unique Features: Innovative structure; diverse range of voices; exploration of time and change.

Why It’s Underrated: Despite winning the Pulitzer Prize, it remains lesser-known among casual readers.

Notable Reviews: Acclaimed for its inventive storytelling and complex characters.

6. "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak

Brief Summary: Set in Nazi Germany, the story follows a young girl named Liesel who steals books and shares them with her neighbors, including a Jewish man hiding in her basement.

Unique Features: Narration by Death; poignant exploration of humanity; lyrical writing style.

Why It’s Underrated: Widely read in some circles but often overlooked in mainstream discussions.

Notable Reviews: Highly praised for its unique narrative voice and emotional depth.

7. "Station Eleven" by Emily St. John Mandel

Brief Summary: A post-apocalyptic novel that weaves together the stories of survivors after a flu pandemic decimates the population.

Unique Features: Nonlinear storytelling; focus on art and human connections; hauntingly beautiful prose.

Why It’s Underrated: Although critically acclaimed, it remains a hidden gem for many readers.

Notable Reviews: Shortlisted for the National Book Award and praised for its literary merit.

8. "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt

Brief Summary: A group of eccentric students at a small liberal arts college becomes involved in a murder, leading to their psychological unraveling.

Unique Features: Psychological depth; exploration of morality and guilt; richly detailed characters.

Why It’s Underrated: Gained a strong following but not widely recognized in popular culture.

Notable Reviews: Acclaimed for its intense and gripping narrative.

9. "Bel Canto" by Ann Patchett

Brief Summary: An opera singer is held hostage at a birthday party in a South American country, leading to unexpected bonds between captors and captives.

Unique Features: Lyrical and poetic writing; exploration of love and human connection; rich character development.

Why It’s Underrated: Often overshadowed by Patchett’s other works.

Notable Reviews: Winner of the PEN/Faulkner Award and praised for its emotional depth.

10. "The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay" by Michael Chabon

Brief Summary: Two Jewish cousins create a popular comic book series during the Golden Age of Comics, facing challenges in their personal and professional lives.

Unique Features: Blend of historical fiction and magical realism; intricate plot; profound themes.

Why It’s Underrated: Despite winning the Pulitzer Prize, it remains under the radar for many readers.

Notable Reviews: Celebrated for its imaginative scope and compelling characters.

Conclusion

Exploring underrated novels can lead to some of the most rewarding reading experiences. These ten books offer a diverse array of stories, each with its own unique charm and depth. By giving these hidden gems the attention they deserve, readers can discover new favorites and broaden their literary horizons. So, pick up one of these novels, dive in, and let yourself be captivated by the magic of these underrated masterpieces.