Looking for your next page-turner? 📚✨ Whether you’re into gripping thrillers, heartwarming romances, or thought-provoking historical fiction, this list has something for every book lover. In this post, I’m sharing my favorite reads of 2024—a collection of stories that kept me hooked, inspired, and sometimes even up way past bedtime!
From bestselling authors to hidden gems, these books are sure to spark your imagination and stay with you long after the final chapter. Let’s dive in and find your next favorite read!
Comfort and Joy is a heartwarming and uplifting holiday novel that explores themes of healing, second chances, and the magic of Christmas. The story follows Joy, a woman who, after a series of personal losses, embarks on a spontaneous journey to find peace and rediscover her happiness. Set against a beautiful winter backdrop, this novel is filled with moments of hope, connection, and the power of love to bring comfort during times of grief.
This cozy and heartfelt read is perfect for the holiday season. Comfort and Joy is a gentle reminder that joy can be found even in the darkest times, making it a truly feel-good story.
All the Colors of the Dark is a captivating and emotionally complex psychological thriller that starts off slow, but keeps readers on edge. The story follows the life of Patch, a man who is deeply scarred by his past and struggling to navigate forward in his life.
This chilling read is a slow-burn suspense with multi-layered storytelling. The book picks up steam about halfway through and trust me, you won’t be able to set it down!
The Idea of You is a captivating exploration of love, desire, and the complexities of age-gap relationships. The story follows Solène, a successful woman in her 40s who unexpectedly falls for Hayes, a 20-year-old pop star. Their passionate connection challenges societal expectations and forces Solène to confront her own desires, insecurities, and the pressures of a public relationship.
This book brings raw authenticity to the characters’ emotions and struggles. The chemistry between Solène and Hayes is undeniable, and the book is a thought-provoking read that will leave you questioning the boundaries of love and connection.
The Great Alone is a hauntingly beautiful and atmospheric novel set in the Alaskan wilderness, where survival and human resilience are tested at every turn. This is a powerful story of Ernt Allbright, a man struggling with PTSD, and his family’s attempt to start over in the remote wilds of Alaska. As the seasons change, so too does the darkness within Ernt, and his wife and daughter must find the strength to survive in a harsh and unforgiving environment—both physically and emotionally.
Hannah’s ability to capture the complexities of love, survival, and trauma is unmatched. The Great Alone is a compelling, emotional read that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page. It’s a story of hope, courage, and the lengths we go to protect the ones we love.
Yes, we read this twice! In anticipation for the new film, our book club decided to reread It Ends with Us.
The Perfect Marriage is a gripping psychological thriller that keeps you guessing until the very last page. Sarah, a high-powered defense attorney, finds herself defending her husband, Adam, who is accused of murdering his mistress. As secrets unravel, the story twists and turns, leaving you questioning everyone’s motives and loyalties.
This fast-paced, suspenseful narrative includes characters that are deeply flawed yet intriguing. The ending is jaw-dropping and will leave you reeling. The Perfect Marriage is an addictive page-turner you won’t be able to put down.
One True Loves is a beautifully written and emotionally charged story about love, loss, and rediscovery. Taylor Jenkins Reid masterfully takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster as Emma, the protagonist, is torn between her husband, Jesse—presumed dead but miraculously found alive—and her fiancé, Sam, who helped her rebuild her life after tragedy.
The relatable characters and thought-provoking moments that explore the complexities of relationships and the idea of soulmates will leave you questioning what it truly means to find “the one.”
This selection didn’t go over as well in book club as others, but I personally did enjoy reading Jenette McCurdy’s memoir. Her honesty is both heartbreaking and refreshing as she recounts her childhood as a young actress, all while trying to navigate her mother’s overwhelming control and the toxic pressures of Hollywood.
Despite the heavy themes, there’s humor woven throughout, which made the book feel authentic. By the end, I found myself rooting for her, not just as a former child star but as someone who’s bravely taken control of her life.
The Women is a powerful and deeply moving exploration of love, loss, and resilience during the Vietnam War. The story follows Frankie McGrath, a young nurse who defies societal expectations by enlisting to serve in Vietnam, only to face unimaginable challenges both abroad and upon returning home. Hannah paints a raw and poignant picture of the often-overlooked experiences of women during this turbulent time in history.
Our book club loved this read! It is long and deep – as a heart-wrenching tribute to courage and the enduring strength of the human spirit. A must-read for fans of historical fiction and unforgettable heroines
None of This Is True is a thrilling, twisted psychological drama that keeps you hooked from the first page. The story follows Alix, a successful podcaster who becomes entangled in the life of her new acquaintance, Josie, a seemingly ordinary woman with dark secrets. As Alix digs deeper into Josie’s past, the lines between truth and deception blur, leading to shocking revelations and unexpected twists.
This book is suspenseful and engaging, with characters that are both fascinating and deeply flawed. None of This Is True is a masterclass in psychological suspense, full of twists that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The Likely Event is a beautifully emotional story that follows Izzy and Nate, whose lives are forever changed by the events of a tragic plane crash. Izzy, a determined young woman dealing with her own trauma, and Nate, a man struggling with guilt and loss, form an unlikely bond as they navigate the aftermath of the crash. As their relationship deepens, both are forced to confront their pasts and find a way to heal.
The emotional depth and slow-burn romance between Izzy and Nate make The Likely Event a captivating and unforgettable read. Perfect for fans of stories about healing, love, and the power of unexpected connections
The Inheritance is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story follows Grace, who unexpectedly inherits a large estate after the death of a distant relative. As she moves into the isolated home, she uncovers dark family secrets and begins to question who she can trust. The tension escalates with every twist, leaving readers guessing at every turn.
The book is filled with unexpected twists, complex characters, and a deep sense of unease. The Inheritance is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers that keep you hooked until the last page.
A couple of us from Book Club, myself included, had already read this book years ago. But we loved it so so much that we wanted the others to experience its emotional, gripping narrative.
Set against the backdrop of France during World War II, the story follows two sisters navigating the harrowing challenges of survival throughout a war. It paints vivid pictures of the sweeping drama of WWII while also shedding light on the experiences of women during wartime. “The Nightingale” intricately weaves the tales of these two sisters, divergent in their paths yet united in their pursuit of survival, love, and freedom amidst the chaos of German-occupied France. This heartrending yet beautiful novel stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, particularly that of women. It’s a story that resonates with readers of all backgrounds, destined to leave a lasting impact.
This book served as pure entertainment, and I found myself thoroughly enjoying every bit of it! Despite the writing style feeling reminiscent of articles from magazines like US Weekly or People, delving into Britney’s perspective evoked a profound sense of empathy within me.
Through her narrative, the book illuminates her journey into the music industry, showcasing the challenges she faced on her path to achieving her childhood dream. However, once she got there, it seemed that everyone around her wanted a piece of the fame, whether it benefitted her or not. This book left me feeling very grateful for my ordinary life.
Things We Left Behind is an emotional and heart-wrenching sequel to Things We Never Got Over, continuing the story of Sloan and Lucien, whose complicated and intense relationship unfolds through this gripping narrative. The book explores their history together—highlighting the moments that shaped their bond, their struggles, and the emotional scars they’ve carried with them.
The slow-burn romance between Sloan and Lucien is powerful, with their pasts intertwined in ways that both challenge and deepen their connection. Themes of healing, trust, and redemption are beautifully explored as the two confront their shared history and their desire for a future together.
Matthew Perry’s memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Things, is a raw and candid account of his life, fame, and struggles with addiction. Known for his role as Chandler Bing on Friends, Perry opens up about the highs of celebrity status and the lows of battling personal demons. His vulnerability shines through as he shares deeply personal stories about his relationships, career, and the ongoing fight for his well-being.
Perry’s wit and humor are ever-present, but the book also reveals the painful reality behind the scenes of his public life. Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Things is both heartbreaking and inspiring, offering a powerful look at the man behind one of television’s most beloved characters.
Lessons in Chemistry is a brilliant and witty debut novel that combines humor, heart, and a powerful feminist message. Set in the 1960s, the story follows Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant chemist who faces the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field. When her career stalls, she unexpectedly becomes the host of a popular cooking show, where she uses her scientific knowledge to educate housewives on chemistry—much to the confusion of her audience.
The novel beautifully tackles issues of gender inequality, love, and self-worth, all while maintaining a lighthearted, engaging tone. Lessons in Chemistry is an inspiring and thought-provoking read that’s as entertaining as it is empowering.
Carrie Soto Is Back is an inspiring and compelling novel that dives deep into the world of professional tennis and the fierce determination of its protagonist. The story follows Carrie Soto, a retired tennis legend who returns to the sport at 37, determined to reclaim her record-breaking title. The book explores themes of ambition, identity, and the complex relationships that define Carrie’s life, particularly her bond with her father and coach, Javier.
Carrie’s journey of self-discovery, grit, and resilience is powerful, making her an unforgettable character. The book also touches on themes of legacy, the price of success, and the importance of family. Carrie Soto Is Back is a must-read for anyone who loves stories about overcoming obstacles and redefining one’s limits.
The Things We Left Unfinished is a beautifully written and emotionally gripping historical romance that weaves together the past and present. The story follows Charlotte, a woman who uncovers her grandmother’s love letters and the poignant history of her family’s involvement in World War II. As Charlotte dives into the letters, she finds herself drawn into a passionate love story that spans decades, forcing her to confront her own struggles with love, loss, and moving forward.
The novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the impact of war on families, creating a powerful and heart-wrenching narrative. The Things We Left Unfinished is a beautiful, sweeping romance and a must-read for fans of historical fiction.
The Paris Apartment is a thrilling and atmospheric mystery that keeps readers guessing from start to finish. The story follows Jess, a woman who travels to Paris to stay with her half-brother, Ben, only to find that he’s gone missing. As she digs deeper into the secrets of the apartment building where he lived, Jess uncovers a web of lies, hidden motives, and mysterious neighbors, each with their own dark pasts.
The alternating perspectives of various characters add layers of complexity to the story, keeping us on edge while trying to piece together the puzzle. The Paris Apartment is a must-read for fans of suspenseful whodunits, offering plenty of twists and turns.
Never Never is a captivating and mysterious novel that blends romance, suspense, and intrigue. The story follows Charlie and Silas, two high school seniors who wake up one day with no memory of who they are or how they ended up in their current situation. As they try to piece together their forgotten past and uncover the truth, they develop a bond that goes beyond the mystery surrounding them.
Colleen Hoover and Tarryn Fisher’s collaboration results in a gripping, fast-paced story with plenty of twists. The tension between Charlie and Silas is palpable, and the book keeps you hooked as you try to unravel the mystery alongside the characters. Never Never is a thrilling and intense ride, perfect for fans of mystery-driven romances that explore both love and the unknown.
Things We Hide from the Light is a compelling and heartfelt romance that follows the first book of the series, Things We Never Got Over. The story focuses on Nash Morgan, a small-town police officer, and his struggles with his past while dealing with the deep connection he feels toward Lena, a woman with her own troubled history. As they navigate personal challenges and evolving feelings for each other, their relationship becomes a slow burn of trust, healing, and emotional depth.
The chemistry between Nash and Lena is undeniable, and the story tackles themes of redemption, second chances, and the scars we carry from our past. Things We Hide from the Light is a powerful, heartfelt sequel to Things We Never Got Overthat will resonate with fans of slow-burn romances and character-driven stories.
Apples Never Fall is a captivating family drama that weaves together mystery, suspense and emotional depth. The story revolves around the Delaney family, centered on parents Stan and Joy, whose seemingly perfect life takes a dark turn when Joy goes missing. As the family grapples with her disappearance, buried secrets and long-buried tensions surface, causing readers to question who can be trusted and what really happened.
The complex relationships between the family members are portrayed with nuance, and the suspenseful plot keeps you hooked until the very last page. A must-read for fans of Moriarty’s twist-filled mysteries.
It Ends with Us is an emotional and thought-provoking novel that dives deep into the complexities of love, abuse, and resilience. The story follows Lily Bloom, a young woman who meets and falls in love with Ryle Kincaid, a successful neurosurgeon. As their relationship intensifies, Lily finds herself facing difficult choices and confronting painful truths about love, family, and her own strength.
It Ends with Us is a heart-wrenching, yet ultimately empowering, read that will stay with you long after the last page. A must-read for fans of emotionally charged, real-world romance novels.
The Santa Suit is a delightful and festive holiday novel that blends charm, romance, and the magic of Christmas. The story follows Ivy Perkins, who buys an old farmhouse to start fresh after a tough year. As she settles into her new home, she discovers a vintage Santa suit that leads her on a journey of self-discovery, unexpected connections, and the holiday spirit.
Mary Kay Andrews’ writing is warm, engaging, and full of heart. The characters are endearing, and the setting is cozy and festive, perfect for getting into the holiday mood. The Santa Suit is a heartwarming tale of hope, love, and the joy of second chances, making it an ideal read for anyone looking for a cozy, feel-good Christmas story.
Archer’s Voice is a deeply emotional and heartwarming romance that captivates from start to finish. The story follows Bree, a young woman escaping a troubled past, and Archer, a mysterious, mute man living in a quiet town. As their paths cross, they form a tender and healing connection, both learning to overcome their personal scars and embrace love and trust.
The chemistry between Bree and Archer is undeniable, and their slow-burn romance is filled with heartfelt moments. Archer’s Voice is a powerful and unforgettable read, perfect for fans of emotional and deeply moving love stories.
Things We Never Got Over is a heartfelt and charming romance that blends humor, drama, and deep emotional moments. The story follows Naomi, a woman who finds herself stranded in a small town after a series of unfortunate events. As she navigates her new life, she meets Knox, a gruff but kind-hearted local who becomes her unexpected ally. Their growing connection sparks chemistry and tension, making their relationship both complicated and compelling.
The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to root for their love story. Things We Never Got Over is a delightful, slow-burn romance with plenty of twists and heartfelt moments.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is a captivating and emotionally charged novel that takes readers behind the glamorous facade of Hollywood’s Golden Age. The story follows the life of Evelyn Hugo, a reclusive and legendary actress, who finally decides to reveal the truth about her seven marriages to an unknown journalist, Monique Grant. Through their conversations, Evelyn’s secrets, triumphs, and heartaches are slowly uncovered, creating a gripping narrative of love, ambition, and sacrifice.
Evelyn is a complex, flawed, and unforgettable protagonist whose journey will make you reflect on the nature of love, fame, and personal identity. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is a beautifully written, thought-provoking read that’s impossible to put down.
Reminders of Him is a deeply emotional and heart-wrenching novel by Colleen Hoover that explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and second chances. The story follows Ledger, a man trying to move on from his past, and Kenna, a woman recently released from prison after serving time for a tragic mistake. As Kenna seeks forgiveness and a chance to reconnect with her son, she must face her past and the consequences of her actions.
The characters are deeply relatable, and their journey toward redemption is both powerful and poignant. Reminders of Him is a beautiful, soul-stirring story and a must-read for fans of emotional, character-driven novels.
It Starts with Us is the highly anticipated sequel to It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover, and it does not disappoint. This novel dives deeper into the relationship between Lily Bloom and Atlas Corrigan, picking up where the first book left off. As Lily navigates her new life after her difficult marriage, she reconnects with Atlas, her first love, and the two work to build a future together despite the challenges that arise.
It Starts with Us offers a sense of hope and resolution that will satisfy fans who’ve been eagerly awaiting Atlas and Lily’s next chapter. It’s a beautiful exploration of second chances, self-discovery, and the power of love to overcome obstacles.
SHOP
THE POST
PIN FOR LATER
