10 Fiction Books Better Than Doomscrolling

Escape the endless feed — these gripping stories will pull you into worlds far more rewarding than your screen.

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash

When your thumb won’t stop scrolling and the news cycle feels endless, it’s time to switch gears.

Fiction offers something deeper — immersion, imagination, and emotional reset.

These ten books aren’t just distractions; they’re compelling journeys that will hold your attention far better than any algorithm ever could.

1. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

The Song of Achilles is a beautiful retelling of the classic Greek myth of Achilles and the Trojan War. The story is told from the perspective of Patroclus, Achille’s childhood friend and lover.

The novel explores the relationship between Achilles and Patroclus with emotional depth and lyrical language.

I love Greek Mythology esp. the siege of Troy but still it took me so long to pick this book. I wasn’t sure that the book will live up to the hype. But it was worth the wait.

The storytelling is vivid and immersive, bringing the characters and ancient world to life.

A must read for fans of Greek mythology and those who enjoy tales of love, loyalty and tragedy.

2. Frenchman’s Creek by Daphne du Maurier

I absolutely loved this novel. The writing, the atmosphere, the spirited English woman and the French pirate!

This novel was sensual, intense and dreamy, at the same time.

It is a classic novel set in the late 1600s in Cornwall, England. The story follows a noblewoman, Lady Dona St Columb, as she escapes her unhappy marriage and finds solace and love in the arms of a French pirate.

The book is a romantic adventure, filled with action, mystery and intrigue. Du Maurier’s vivid descriptions of the landscape and characters are both beautiful and haunting.

This is a must read for fans of historical fiction and romance.

3. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

How can I even begin to describe this book? This is unlike anything I have ever read.

It is a mesmerizing tale of magic, love and the power of human spirit. I have quite honestly never had the pleasure of reading a more beautiful book.

Two renowned magicians set their two best students against one another in a magical contest. The venue is a mysterious circus that only appears at night.

The writing is rich, vivid and imaginative, transporting the reader to a world of illusions and impossible wonders. The characters are wonderfully crafted, their journeys leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

This book is a must read for anyone who loves magic, storytelling and imaginative worlds. This is one book that you must read for its magical and dreamy quality.

4. The Witch of Portobello by Paulo Coelho

This is a very interesting and mystical book. It explores the life of Athena, a mysterious woman with spiritual powers. Coelho’s storytelling is masterful and draws you into the world of magic and belief.

The book is a journey of self discovery and a reminder to follow our hearts and listen to the inner voice within us. The story is slow but will leave you intellectually and spiritually stimulated.

A must read for those who believe in the power of the universe and the strength of the human spirit.

5. We were Liars by E. Lockhart

Tragic, yet hauntingly beautiful story!

When I began reading this book, I went in completely blind and had absolutely no clue what it was about.

Cadence and her family spend every summer on a private island which is owned by her billionaire grandfather. Then, two summers ago, something terrible and tragic happens. Everyone knows but Cadence… and everyone absolutely refuses to tell her.

It is a mystery thriller novel that keeps you guessing till the end. The twists and turns in the story will leave you on the edge of your seat. The big reveal at the end left me speechless. I never saw it coming.

I also read its sequel ‘Family of Liars’ which came out in 2022 and found it equally engaging.

6. Three Daughters of Eve by Elif Shafak

This is a captivating novel that explores the complexities of faith, identity and the search for meaning in life.

Through the eyes of three different women, Elif Shafak delves into the intersection of religion, culture and politics in modern day Istanbul.

A powerful and thought provoking read, it will leave you questioning the choices you make in life and the beliefs that shape you.

7. Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney

This was an entertaining, fast-paced, and gripping atmospheric read.

The story follows Amelia and her husband, Adam who travel from London to Scotland for a weekend. Their destination is a converted and mostly isolated chapel. Things are off to a rocky start before they arrive at the chapel, and quickly go from bad to worse.

This is an enthralling read that kept me on my toes with some amazing twists.

If you’re looking for a good psychological thriller, Rock Paper Scissors is an excellent choice.

8. The Feast of Roses by Indu Sundaresan

The love story of Emperor Jahangir and Mehrunnisa, which begun in the critically praised debut novel The Twentieth Wife, continues in The Feast of Roses.

This book continues with the life of Mehrunnisa, eventual empress of the Mughal Dynasty and her rise from nothing to one of the most powerful rulers.

A masterful blend of fact and fiction, this book is a must read for fans of historical fiction. I also read the third novel in this series ‘The Shadow Princess’.

If you want to submerse yourself in the lush beauty and history of Mughal India, give this series a try.

9. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

This Pulitzer Prize winning novel has become a classic of modern American literature. It is a thought provoking and inspiring novel that explores the themes of racism, prejudice and social justice.

The story is told from the point of view of Scout Finch, a six year old girl who lives in the town of Maycomb and how their life is impacted when her father Atticus Finch decides to act as Tom’s defence lawyer. Tom, a black man who has been accused of raping a young white woman, has to endure multiple racial attacks.

It’s a gripping story with great characters. Harper Lee’s writing is poetic and insightful, making this novel a timeless classic that will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.

10. Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

It is a thrilling and fast paced book, filled with complex characters, intricate plotting and an exciting fictional world. Bardugo’s writing is sharp and her imagination is boundless.

This fantasy fiction follows six teenagers living in the city of Ketterdam. Kaz Brekker, renowned thief and master conman, has been hired for an impossible job- to kidnap a scientist from the Ice Court. The thing is that, the Ice Court has never been breached, so Kaz pulls together a team. The six of crows.

The book is full of surprising twists and turns, making it an unforgettable read. If you are looking for an epic adventure, this book is for you.

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