2024 Reading Wrapped

It’s been a hot sec since I did a yearly wrap of my favorite books, and I figured it was time to bring it back, especially since this year turned out to be quite a whirlwind in terms of my reading endeavors. After twelve months and 142 books, I successfully exceeded my original Goodreads goal, gained a new appreciation for a misjudged genre, expanded my literary horizons and found new authors to obsess over.

The sheer volume of books I read this year was a bit of an anomaly. This was thanks in part to the introduction of audiobooks, which turned boring rush hour commutes into productive story-listening time, and a foray into romance novels, many of which are pretty easy reads averaging between 350 and 400 pages. I turned this into an experiment of sorts, exploring the nuances of a genre usually deemed inferior and finding the books that defied common stereotypes or fully embraced the cliches in delightful ways.

So now that you’ve read my spiel, take a look at my top books of the past year (in no particular order or ranking). For more detailed reviews, click the title of the book to be linked directly to my Goodreads profile.

2024 Wrapped

Butcher and Blackbird by Brynne Weaver

Dark romance featuring serial killers who hunt down other serial killers. Competitive rivals to lovers who have hilarious banter. Brynne Weaver is definitely one of the most entertaining writers I’ve discovered this year.

If it Makes You Happy by Julie Olivia

This small-town romance has all the makings of a typical Hallmark plot but better. Lovely slow burn building from a genuine friendship into a deeper connection. The coziest read of the year.

The Ornithologist’s Guide to Love by India Holton

Historical romantasy about academic rivals to lovers. If you loved Holton’s Dangerous Damsels, you are in luck with her next series, Love’s Academics. Absurd situations and tongue-in cheek writing style - It’s a hilarious romp.

About A Boy by Nick Hornby

A coming-of-age story, where the adults have as much growing up to do as the kids. Quirky characters and unlikely friendships. Features the acerbic wit and relatable character portraits that Nick Hornby is known for.

I’m Glad My Mom is Dead by Jeannette McCurdy

Incredibly moving memoir of a fraught relationship between mother and daughter, mental health/illness, emotional abuse and the cost of growing up in the spotlight. Heartbreaking yet amazing portrayal of resilience and healing after trauma.

A Man Called Ove by Frederick Backman

I know I said no rankings, but this might be my favorite book of the year. Witty and moving, this book tackles grief, suicide, and the friendships we form within our communities. No other book has made me simultaneously laugh and cry like this book.

The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young

Well-paced and beautifully written romance, with a unique take on time travel. This book had everything, from the perception of mental illness in small towns to curses and murder, all with a slow-burn romance developing along the way.

Reckless by Elsie Silver

Chestnut Springs was my overall favorite romance series of the year, with Reckless being the standout book. Two people who find themselves co-parenting after a one-night stand leads to an unexpected pregnancy. Features a great redemption arc, with both love interests experiencing a positive growth in an admirable way.

Happy Place by Emily Henry

Summer romance perfect as a beach read. Estranged couple navigates the nature of their relationship and whether they can reconcile given the choices they’ve made. Great message about changing your course, following your dreams and giving the one you love the space to realize their potential in their own time.

A World Beneath the Sands by Toby Wilkinson

Palatable non-fiction book about the history of how the field of Egyptology came to be. I have a minor obsession with Ancient Egyptian history, so this is a shameless plug for a pretty niche topic. An engrossing and entertaining read for anyone interested in Ancient Egypt and archaeology.

Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton

Humorous and extremely relatable memoir tackling how it feels to be a young woman navigating romantic, professional and platonic relationships in today's fast-paced, increasingly connected world. I would gladly read anything else Dolly Alderton wants to write, including her grocery list.

A Shadow in the Reaping by Brynn Weaver

Dark romantasy trilogy. Enemies to lovers trope between a sarcastic heroine and broody MMC. Another winner from Brynn Weaver, this is a great series to read if you are in a SJ Maas hangover. World building was a bit hard to keep up with at first but the witty banter and spicy scenes more than make up for it.

Rapid Fire Honorable Mentions

Crescent City: House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas

I will always stan SJM.

The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent

Like Hunger Games meets From Blood and Ash.

The Woman in Me by Britney Spears

A moving peek behind the curtain of one of the most famous women of our generation.

Misery by Stephen King

Way more graphic than the movie.

Maggie Moves On by Lucy Score

Romance and a home remodel.

The Bride Goes Rogue by Joanna Shupe

Love me a morally gray MMC.

Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi

Heartbreaking & humorous in equal measure.