Although, sometimes, TikTok's recommendations can fall below the mark (looking at you, It Ends with Us) the app has also suggested some gems. It's simply about sifting them out – which, luckily for you, I have done! Here are five popular BookTok reads that are worth both your time and money.

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1. The Song of Achilles, Madeline Miller

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Set in Ancient Greece, the novel is told from the perspective of Patroclus, a young prince who is exiled from his own court and sent to live with King Peleus and his son, Achilles. Patroclus' relationship with Achilles blossoms to the point where Patroclus willingly accompanies Achilles to Troy, where they join the fight to rescue Helen of Sparta – while also fighting the deep-down knowledge that the war will change their lives, and relationship, forever.

This retelling of the Trojan War is a staple of BookTok recommendations – and for good reason. The writing is rich and lyrical, and the plot grips you from the very first page. While the novel is a great option for those who are already Greek mythology fans, it can be equally enjoyed by those new to the genre.

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2. The Secret History, Donna Tartt

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The novel follows a group of students who attend a New England campus college. Influenced by their charming classics professor, the group become ensnared in a way of life that is a thrilling reprieve from the tedium of the everyday world. However, their new way of living also opens the door to a darkness that risks destroying both the group's restraints and their friendship.

The Secret History is another classic BookTok recommendation. It's Tartt's first novel, and an easy enough read that it makes a great launchpad into her works. The characters are magnetic, and the plot engaging. It's perfect for those looking for a campus novel with a darker twist.

3. The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins

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Katniss Everdeen is certain that taking part in the Hunger Games, the annual fight to the death that is streamed live to the nation, means her demise. However, she promised her sister that she'd try her best to survive. And so, Katniss finds herself battling to trump the odds and defeat the other contestants in order to return home. However, as she gets to know her fellow contestant from District 12, Katniss soon finds herself wondering how far she's truly willing to go...

The Hunger Games was famous long before TikTok. Nevertheless, its popularity on the app means it deserves inclusion on this list. If you enjoy the first book, you'll be delighted to know that not only is it part of a trilogy, but there are two other spin-off books. It's a great series for those looking to be entirely absorbed by a world that's a step away from their own.

4. The Cruel Prince, Holly Black

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When their parents are murdered, Jude and her two sisters are taken to live in the High Court of Faerie. A human among faeries, Jude's struggle to fit in only worsens as she gets older. Jude must seek out power in order to navigate the treacherous world she has been thrown into – a world made more treacherous by Prince Cardan, the King's youngest son, who appears determined to make Jude's life as miserable as possible.

This YA read offers a delightful fantasy world to slip into when you're in need of some escapism. Although this book does contain some BookTok favorite tropes, like enemies-to-lovers, it's clear that Black doesn't just throw them in for mass appeal but as a way to truly enhance the plot.

5. Babel, R.F. Kuang

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Robin Swift finds his life changed forever when he is brought from Canton to England to study at Babel, the Royal Institute of Translation. However, while this newfound world at first strikes him as a miracle, Robin quickly suspects that there is poison at its roots. He must decide: will he succumb to enjoying the freedom and opportunities that Babel offers, or will he face the dark truth at the institution's heart?

R.F. Kuang is one of BookTok's favorite authors – and for good reason. She creates intricate, absorbing plots that are not only enjoyable but also make you feel as though you're learning something. Babel is a long read, so a perfect option if you need something to whittle away long summer days.

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These are just a few of the great reads BookTok has to offer. If you enjoy them, I'd suggest searching the app yourself. It's worth trying to find content creators who have similar tastes to you so you can get recommendations from them. Although it can be difficult, learning to navigate BookTok correctly can help you fulfil all of your bookish dreams!