With so many books published every year, some brilliant novels inevitably slip through the cracks, overshadowed by bestsellers and literary giants. But just because a book isn't widely known doesn’t mean it’s not worth reading. In fact, some of the best stories are hidden gems, waiting to be discovered. If you're looking for fresh, thought-provoking reads, here are some underrated novels that deserve more attention.

1. “Stoner” by John Williams

At first glance, Stoner might seem like a simple story about an ordinary man’s quiet life. But John Williams’ novel is a deeply moving exploration of ambition, love, disappointment, and the beauty of a life well lived. First published in 1965, it was largely ignored until recent years when it found a passionate readership. If you enjoy character-driven novels with exquisite prose, Stoner is a must-read.

2. “The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

This novel is a love letter to literature itself. Set in post-war Barcelona, The Shadow of the Wind follows a young boy who discovers a mysterious book, only to realize that someone is systematically destroying every copy in existence. A mix of historical fiction, mystery, and gothic romance, this novel is a beautifully woven tale that deserves a wider audience.

3. “The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet” by Becky Chambers

Science fiction often focuses on grand battles and epic stakes, but Becky Chambers takes a different approach. This novel is about a diverse crew of space travelers navigating the universe and each other’s personal struggles. It's a heartwarming, character-driven sci-fi book that emphasizes kindness, relationships, and the meaning of home. Fans of Firefly or The Expanse should definitely pick this one up.

4. “The Book of Night Women” by Marlon James

Before his Booker Prize-winning A Brief History of Seven Killings, Marlon James wrote The Book of Night Women, a powerful historical novel about a young enslaved woman in 18th-century Jamaica. The novel’s raw, poetic prose and deeply developed characters make it a haunting but essential read. It deserves just as much recognition as James' later works.

5. “A Tale for the Time Being” by Ruth Ozeki

This novel blends Japanese and Western cultures, philosophy, and magical realism into an unforgettable reading experience. It follows a diary written by a troubled Japanese teenager that washes up on the shores of Canada, where a writer discovers it and becomes obsessed with its contents. With themes of time, memory, and identity, A Tale for the Time Being is a profound and underrated novel that lingers long after you finish.

6. “The Summer Book” by Tove Jansson

Best known for creating the Moomins, Tove Jansson also wrote stunning adult fiction. The Summer Book is a quiet, meditative novel about a grandmother and her granddaughter spending a summer together on a remote Finnish island. It’s a book about nature, childhood, and the simple, profound moments that shape our lives. If you’re looking for a gentle yet deeply thoughtful read, this book is perfect.

7. “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern

While it has a dedicated cult following, The Night Circus is still not as widely recognized as it should be. This beautifully written fantasy novel follows a magical competition between two illusionists, set in a mysterious traveling circus that only opens at night. Its dreamy, atmospheric storytelling makes it a mesmerizing read for fans of magical realism and lyrical prose.

8. “The Housekeeper and the Professor” by Yoko Ogawa

This short but profound novel tells the story of a brilliant mathematician who, after an accident, has only 80 minutes of short-term memory at a time. His housekeeper and her son develop an unlikely, touching friendship with him through the language of numbers. It’s a quiet yet deeply emotional book that deserves far more recognition.

9. “We Have Always Lived in the Castle” by Shirley Jackson

Although Shirley Jackson is famous for The Haunting of Hill House, this eerie, psychological novel is often overlooked. It follows two sisters who live in near-isolation after a family tragedy, surrounded by suspicion and town gossip. Darkly atmospheric and unsettling, it’s a must-read for fans of gothic fiction.

10. “The Golem and the Jinni” by Helene Wecker

A blend of historical fiction, fantasy, and folklore, The Golem and the Jinni tells the story of two mythical beings—one from Jewish tradition, the other from Middle Eastern folklore—who find themselves in 19th-century New York. Wecker’s novel is beautifully written, rich in culture and emotion, and a truly unique take on immigrant stories.

Final Thoughts

Great books don’t always make it onto bestseller lists, but that doesn’t mean they’re any less worthy of attention. These novels, often overlooked or underrated, offer powerful storytelling, deep themes, and unforgettable characters. If you’re looking for something new to read, give one of these books a chance—you might just find your next favorite novel.