Let’s be real: when TikTok began taking off, we didn’t predict it taking over the book industry. But in among the dances and POV videos, a community was building. Readers provided synopses that sent people to buy books in droves, authors found fame, and soon enough, ending up on #BookTok became a dream for any aspiring writer. 

It was only natural, then, that TikTok launched its very own TikTok Book Awards. Winners were determined by #BookTok fans voting for their favourites from a shortlist curated by some of the UK’s biggest names in literature, including Candice Brathwaite and Elizabeth Day, along with representatives from publishers Bloomsbury and Bonnier. 

Last night, the inaugural awards took place and some excellent books and writers took home prizes. Here’s who won what. 

We’ve long been fans of Bolu Babalola, and clearly, we’re not the only ones. Her debut novel is a romcom that follows Kiki, the host of a student radio show who’s determined to guide women through the messy world of modern dating… and ensure they avoid “the wasteman of Whitewell”, Malakai Korede. But when she meets Malakai, sparks fly. Things get complicated and they end up in a fake relationship to save both their reputations… but could a false bond turn real? 

Honey & Spice took home the big prize of BookTok book of the year. “This is actually the first award I’ve received for anything I’ve written,” said Babalola. “It means the world to me, especially because it’s from people who read, who have a passion for books, and actually for love as well. I feel so supported by the BookTok community, creators… they galvanise me. I love how much you thirst for Malakai – it makes the late nights worth it!”

You’ve definitely seen Holly Jackson’s books on your #ForYou page or in the hands of people on the Tube, at the beach, and, well, everywhere. Her big hit is A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder, a young adult thriller that sees a teenager decide to investigate a murder that happened five years ago and begin to uncover some concerning truths. 

After winning the award for BookTok author of the year, Jackson said: “Thank you so much, I can’t say how much BookTok has changed my life. The support you’ve shown for The Good Girl’s Guide To Murder series has been overwhelming, sometimes a little scary! Thank you so much for voting for me. Wow, I’ve got a trophy!”

Everything I Know About Love is a must-read for all women, so it’s no surprise it took home an award last night. Dolly Alderton’s memoir follows her through her teens and her 20s, with all the ups and downs of that classic rocky period – think struggles with career, love, and friendships. 

And the rest of the awards…

• BookTok creator of the year: @edenvictorria
• Indie bookshop of the year: Portobello Bookshop, Edinburgh
• Best BookTok revival: Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen 
• Best book I wish I could read again for the first time: Heartstopper: Volume One by Alice Oseman 

Images: courtesy of publishers