There’s nothing quite like discovering a new author whose stories stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page. That spark of curiosity, the thrill of finding fresh voices, and the joy of getting lost in something entirely unexpected are what keep readers coming back for more. There’s an incredible wave of rising authors delivering unforgettable books right now. They’re taking bold risks, exploring deeply meaningful themes, and redefining how stories are told. Whether you’re drawn to emotional drama, thought-provoking fantasy, or deeply personal narratives, these writers are creating works that demand attention. The literary world is buzzing about them, and for good reason. Curious to know more? Here’s a quick guide to some of the most exciting authors you need on your shelf today.

Tomi Adeyemi

Tomi Adeyemi burst onto the scene with her young adult fantasy series, Legacy of Orisha, starting with Children of Blood and Bone. This book is not your typical fantasy novel. Adeyemi builds a vivid, magical world inspired by West African mythology, weaving it with themes of oppression, loss, and rebellion. The story follows Zélie, a strong-willed protagonist tasked with restoring magic to her people while fighting against injustice. It’s action-packed, emotional, and impossible to put down. If you love epic battles and characters you can root for, Adeyemi’s work belongs at the top of your reading list.

Ocean Vuong

Ocean Vuong is a name you’ve probably heard, but if you haven’t, it’s time to get familiar. Vuong’s debut novel, On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous, is a heart-wrenching tale written as a letter from a son to his mother. Drawing from his own experiences, Vuong touches on immigration, generational trauma, and identity. What makes his writing so special is its poetic quality. Every sentence feels like an artwork in itself. This novel is a must-read if you’re looking for something that challenges you emotionally and leaves you in awe of language.

Angeline Boulley

With her debut novel, Firekeeper’s Daughter, Angeline Boulley soared to the top of bestseller lists. This thrilling mystery follows Daunis, a young woman from the Ojibwe community, as she uncovers dark secrets while working undercover to investigate a drug ring. The book beautifully blends a coming-of-age story with a nail-biting investigation and offers an authentic look at Native American culture. Readers praise Boulley for her gripping storytelling and her ability to represent her heritage with depth and respect.

RF Kuang

RF Kuang is not your average fantasy writer. Her Poppy War series takes inspiration from Chinese history, blending it with dark, magical elements to create something truly unique. Kuang doesn’t shy away from tackling tough themes like war, sacrifice, and the cost of power. Her books are intense, emotional, and packed with layers of meaning that will have you thinking long after you finish. If you enjoy complex plots with morally gray characters, she’s an author you don’t want to miss.

Akwaeke Emezi

Akwaeke Emezi’s books are revelations. Their debut novel, Freshwater, is unlike anything you’ve read before. It’s the story of Ada, a young Nigerian woman, but it also dives into spiritual and metaphysical realms, looking at how identities can fragment and overlap. Emezi challenges traditional storytelling structures to create something deeply personal and powerful. Their second novel, The Death of Vivek Oji, is a bittersweet mystery with themes of love, loss, and cultural expectations. Emezi’s work is perfect for readers who want deeply introspective, thought-provoking fiction.

Silvia Moreno-Garcia

You're in for a treat if you haven’t read a Silvia Moreno-Garcia book yet. This incredibly versatile author has dabbled in everything from horror (Mexican Gothic) to noir (Velvet Was the Night) to fantasy (Gods of Jade and Shadow). No matter the genre, Moreno-Garcia’s storytelling is consistently gripping, with layered characters and vivid settings. Her ability to transform each book into something fresh and original has made her a standout voice in modern literature. She’s an author who will never disappoint if you're craving something different.

Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah

What if the most absurd parts of our world became even more extreme? That’s the idea behind Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah’s short story collection, Friday Black. Each story tackles social issues like racism, consumerism, and violence with a sharp edge and a dose of dark humor. Think Black Mirror meets literary fiction. His debut novel, Chain-Gang All-Stars, explores social issues even further. Set in a dystopian near-future, the novel focuses on the prison-industrial complex, examining systemic injustice through the lens of gladiator-style death matches featuring incarcerated individuals. Adjei-Brenyah has a knack for holding a mirror to the things we’d rather not see, forcing readers to confront uncomfortable truths. His work should be on your must-read list if you’re drawn to thought-provoking literature that packs a punch.

Lisa Ko

Lisa Ko’s debut novel, The Leavers, tells the story of Deming, a young boy whose mother suddenly disappears, leaving him to grapple with the pain of abandonment and figuring out who he is. The book paints a powerful picture of the immigrant experience and the complex bonds between parents and children. Ko’s writing is heartfelt and precise, drawing you deep into the lives of her characters. Her work is a fantastic choice if you gravitate towards stories that feel deeply real and human.