I can say in all honesty that some books are well worth all the hype they receive, while others are not. However, let’s not forget the books that are completely underrated. To me, these books below are the most underrated books that deserve more recognition. Ready or not, let’s get started!
Leave Me Behind by K.M. Moronova
Starting strong with the 2024 by K.M. Moronova, Leave Me Behind is certainly an astonishing book. With such interesting details and complex characters, it provides readers with something to ponder and really sit with in each electrifying page. Nell Gallows, the FMC, is a survivor to say the least. With all she has been through, she deserves someone as hauntingly charming as Bones, even if she doesn’t really know it yet. This book gives you that perfect gothic romance you’ve been missing, so grab your copy, start sharing, and let’s give this book the attention it deserves.
Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer
While this book had some hype on TikTok back in 2023, it has severely lacked, even with the release of her newest novel in the series, Accomplice to the Villain. I absolutely love this series, and I don’t usually read YA novels, but this set of fantasy books has my heart. With the witty Evie Sage and the villainous Trystan Maverine, as well as the additional hilarious characters, this book has everything I would want in a slow-burning fantasy romance. This series deserves the hype that it does not receive.
Hyde and Seek by Layla Frost
If you haven’t had the pleasure of reading anything by Layla Frost, now is the perfect opportunity. I wish I had seen more hype around this book because, oh my goodness, it is amazing! The story revolves around Piper Skye, a baker, who comes into an auto shop, only to run into the rugged and sexy Jake Hyde. I would say that’s all she wrote, but this story holds more than just sweet desserts and fixed cars. Through the good and bad times, the two always show up for each other, reinstating that love may just be able to conquer all.
House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig
If Barbie in the 12 Dancing Princesses was your jam, or still is, then this is the perfect underrated book for you. From dark and mysterious elements, you’ll step into Annaleigh’s world, living at Highmoor with her many sisters, their father, and stepmother. There used to be twelve of them, but now there are only eight. Annaleigh is determined to uncover the mystery behind her sister’s death, hoping she isn’t the next one to go before she can put an end to the loss.
The Siren by Kiera Cass
Kiera Cass, the author of The Selection, may have written a great series, but this book tops everything, and certainly does not get the respect it deserves. The love and friendship between Kahlen and her sister are truly binding. When she meets Akinli, a human who comes into her life, she can no longer live by the rules that the Ocean has set for her. With such a bond, however, comes great sacrifice. Find out what happens in this spell-binding novel!
The House Witch and The Enchanting of the Hearth by Emilie Nikota
Finlay Ashowan has more to him than anyone knows. Not only is he just the royal cook, but he has a past that is slowly catching up to him. It remains to be known if Fin can hide the secret he has been hiding for so long, or not, but one thing is for sure: he has caught the eye of a woman in the royal court. Will he be able to keep running from his secrets, or will he lose it all? This cozy fantasy tale has all of the best vibes and plot lines that can truly make your day.
Forget Me Not by Julie Soto
I could write an essay about this book, but clearly, I can’t do that. However, I can say that this book deserves to be in a museum. With such captivating details and an enticing plotline, this romance novel truly has everything one could ever want. Ama Torres, a wedding planner, decided that marriage is not in her plan. When Elliot, her ex-florist and ex-boyfriend, reenters her life, she must work with him to make sure their livelihoods are not headed for the dumpster. Who said work couldn’t also be pleasure? Find out what happens in this twist of a novel!
I hope you enjoyed these lesser-talked-about recommendations. With a new year coming up, what could be better than giving some love to the books that are well worth the hype? From magical realms to small town charm, these books have all you could want! Happy reading!
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