What Book Genres Were Popular in 2024 and What Will Trend in 2025?

As each year unfolds, new trends in the literary world emerge, reflecting societal changes, cultural conversations, and readers’ evolving tastes. In 2024, several book genres captured the spotlight, and predictions for 2025 suggest exciting shifts in what readers will crave. Let’s explore the most popular genres of 2024 and what’s expected to dominate the shelves in 2025.

Popular Book Genres in 2024

1. Romantic Comedies (Rom-Coms)

   • In 2024, rom-coms enjoyed a renaissance, combining heartfelt romance with laugh-out-loud moments. Stories like Happy Place by Emily Henry continued to thrive, appealing to readers seeking escapism and humor in challenging times.

   • Themes of self-discovery and second chances within lighthearted settings resonated strongly.

2. Speculative Fiction

   • Speculative fiction, encompassing both science fiction and fantasy, saw a surge in popularity as readers sought imaginative worlds to escape into. Books like Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros and other fantasy adventures featuring morally complex characters became social media sensations.

   • Climate fiction ("cli-fi") also gained traction, with stories exploring the impact of environmental change on humanity.

3. Mystery and Thrillers

   • The mystery/thriller genre remained a powerhouse in 2024. Fast-paced, twist-filled novels like The Only One Left by Riley Sager captured readers’ attention. Psychological thrillers with unreliable narrators and dark domestic settings particularly resonated.

4. Young Adult Fantasy

   • The YA fantasy genre remained a favorite, with a growing emphasis on diverse representation. Stories featuring inclusive casts of characters navigating magical realms or dystopian futures captivated younger readers.

Predicted Book Trends for 2025

1. Cozy Fantasy

   • As the "cozy" aesthetic gains popularity in other media, cozy fantasy is expected to dominate in 2025. Think low-stakes stories like Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree or The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst that focus on community, comfort, and charm in fantastical settings.

2. Post-Apocalyptic Optimism

   • While dystopian fiction often explores grim futures, 2025 may see a shift toward hopeful post-apocalyptic stories. Readers are increasingly drawn to narratives of rebuilding and resilience, where humanity thrives despite adversity.

3. AI-Centric Science Fiction

   • With rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, books exploring AI’s role in society—whether as an ally or antagonist—are poised to be highly relevant.

4. Historical Romance with a Twist

   • Historical romance is set to expand beyond its traditional bounds, incorporating elements of fantasy or alternate history. Readers are looking for fresh spins on classic tropes in richly detailed worlds.

5. Dark Academia Revival

   • Dark academia, with its blend of intellectual intrigue, gothic settings, and complex characters, is predicted to make a strong comeback. Themes of obsession, ambition, and betrayal resonate with readers across age groups.

6. Mental Health-Focused Narratives

   • Books that center on mental health, healing, and personal growth will likely continue to gain traction. Whether fiction or nonfiction, readers are seeking stories that foster understanding and empathy around emotional well-being.

7. Interactive and Multiformat Stories

   • With the rise of multimedia storytelling, 2025 could see an increase in novels accompanied by interactive elements, such as companion apps, soundtracks, or augmented reality experiences. This trend caters to tech-savvy readers looking for immersive engagement.

Knowing future trends helps authors, editors, and publishers align their efforts with market demands while inspiring creative innovation. For readers, understanding trends provides a lens into the broader cultural and social conversations shaping our world. If you’re a writer who writes to market, knowing these trends can help shape your next project. You might be able to influence what tropes enter the space in 2025.

Whether you’re a writer planning your next project or a book lover hunting for your next great read, 2025 promises to be an exciting year for literature. Keep an eye on these emerging genres and be part of the stories that define the future of storytelling.