The Best Debut Novels of 2020 From Refreshing New Authors

Likewise said Abi Daré's debut novel about a young Nigerian girl determined to get an education became an instant New York Times bestseller and was selected as Today Shows book club pick.

Likewise said Kate Elizabeth Russell's psychological fiction debut novel was an instant New York Times bestseller and received high praise from fellow authors. Stephen King called the novel "a package of dynamite."

Likewise said Brandon Taylor's part autobiography, part coming-of-age story about a Black doctoral student is a powerful debut. It has been named a best book of 2020 by The Washington Post, Elle and Vulture and as a notable book of the year by The New York Times.

Likewise said Megha Majumdar's politically charged suspense novel about three unforgettable characters in India was selected as a Today Show book club pick.

Likewise said While Charlie Kaufman is an Oscar-winning screenwriter for Being John Malkovich, this bold and original debut novel is his first venture into books.

Likewise said This bold debut novel from Frances Cha takes place in contemporary South Korea about four young women in a world defined by impossibly high beauty standards. It has been named one of the best books of the year by Time, NPR and Esquire.

Likewise said Alka Joshi's debut novel tells the story of a young Indian woman's journey from a small village to one of the most sought-after henna artists was selected by Reese Witherspoon as a Hello Sunshine book club pick.

Likewise said Elizabeth Wetmore's historical fiction debut novel was an instant bestseller this year. It was selected as a Today Show book club pick and called "a thrilling debut that deserves your attention" from The Washington Post.

Likewise said Bryan Washington's debut novel wowed readers and critics alike. It was named a best book of the year by The Washington Post, TIME, Oprah Magazine, Esquire and more!

Likewise said Raven Leilani's bold and humorous debut novel on race and class has caught the attention of many. It has been named a best book of 2020 by NPR, Los Angeles Times, The New York Public Library and more!

Likewise said The New York Times Book Review called Clare Beam's debut novel "astoundingly original, belongs on the shelf with your Margaret Atwood and Octavia Butler collections."