9 Books, 3 Categories
Not every book hits the same—and that’s what makes reading so interesting.
In this lineup, I’m breaking down three books that met my expectations, three that completely exceeded them, and three I’m going into with high hopes. Some delivered exactly what I needed, some surprised me in the best way, and some are still waiting to prove themselves.
Reading is such a personal journey, and categorizing books based on expectations helps to capture that unique experience. I've found that books meeting my expectations often provide a comforting and reliable read, such as Abby Jimenez's "One of Us" and Liv Constantine's works, which deliver solid mystery and romance elements without surprises but plenty of enjoyment. On the other hand, books that exceeded my expectations stand out by introducing unexpected twists or richer storytelling. Ashley Poston's "The Dead Romantics" and Taylor Jenkins Reid’s "Carrie Soto Is Back" are prime examples that blended romance and fiction with unexpected depth, breathing new life into familiar themes. Lastly, I always have high hopes for upcoming reads like Andy E.T.R.'s "Yesteryear" and Claire Burke's "Project Hail," which promise thrilling science fiction and intriguing narratives. Previewing these titles fuels my excitement and curiosity, and I appreciate how platforms like #booktok continue to highlight such gems. In my experience, following a mix of these categories keeps reading fresh and engaging, balancing predictability with excitement. It’s also rewarding to participate in communities like #bookishalgorithm and #tiktoklearningcampaign, where readers share honest reviews and recommendations that help shape my reading list. Whether a book meets, exceeds, or is anticipated, each contributes meaningfully to the evolving landscape of contemporary literature.