As 2024 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the stories that have captivated my mind and heart throughout the year. From tales of love and loss to mysteries that kept me on the edge of my seat, this collection showcases a diverse array of voices and experiences. Each book featured in this list has left an indelible mark on my soul, offering something unique and memorable. Below, you’ll find my curated selection of the 24 books that stood out the most in 2024, each with a brief summary to entice your curiosity.
Eddie Winston Is Looking for Love by Marianne Cronin
“Eddie Winston Is Looking for Love” is a beautifully written story that reminds readers that it’s never too late to pursue happiness and love. With its heartwarming themes, memorable characters, and charming storyline, this book is sure to be a favourite for many. It’s a true testament to the power of friendship and the resilience of the human spirit. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a feel-good read that will leave a lasting impression. More here: Eddie Winston Is Looking for Love by Marianne Cronin
The List of Suspicious Things by Jennie Godfrey
Jennie Godfrey’s special debut is a must-read for fans of character-driven novels. If you appreciate well-developed characters, atmospheric settings, and engaging plots, this book won’t disappoint. It’s a charming journey through nostalgia, friendship, and the quiet courage of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. More here: The List of Suspicious Things by Jennie Godfrey
Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xóchitl González
“Anita de Monte Laughs Last” urged me to confront the complexities of memory, the power of storytelling, and appreciating how our narratives shape the world around us. This novel offers a distinctive and enriching voyage of discovery, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. More here: Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xóchitl González
The Women by Kristin Hannah
“The Women” deserves all the stars. It’s a beautifully tragic and mesmerising tribute to the women who served, leaving an undeniable mark on history. More here: The Women by Kristin Hannah
Piglet by Hazell Lottie
“Piglet” is a poignant exploration of self-identity and the courage it takes to confront one’s demons. It’s a tale that had me rooting for the protagonist every step of the way, even as I cringed at the societal labels thrust upon her. In the end, the novel stands as a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the beauty of a character laid bare, flaws and all. More here: Piglet by Lottie Hazell
Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors
Coco Mellors’ writing is beautiful and immersive. She captures the bond of family—the love, loss, and redemption—with skill and sensitivity. “Blue Sisters” is an emotional journey that explores the complexities of sisterhood, addiction, and the human spirit. More here: Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors
The Fury by Alex Michaelides
The way the story was told and how it deftly altered my perception of the narrator and the cast of characters over the course of the 300+ pages completely captured my attention. If you enjoy mysteries, suspense, and psychological thrillers, you must read “The Fury”. This novel is a wonderful example of Michaelides’ skill and imagination on paper. Even after you’ve finished reading The Fury, the story will linger in your mind and make you yearn for more. More here: The Fury by Alex Michaelides
Frankie by Graham Norton
“Frankie” by Graham Norton is a heartwarming and immersive read that beautifully captures the essence of human stories and connections. With its strong character development, emotional depth, and engaging narrative, it’s a book that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thoughtful and poignant story about love, loss, and the importance of sharing our stories. More here: Frankie by Graham Norton
The Vulnerables by Sigrid Nunez
The novel may not appeal to everyone, as some readers may find it too slow, too ruminative, or too detached from the reality of the pandemic. However, for those who enjoy a thoughtful and introspective read, “The Vulnerables” is a rewarding and engaging novel that offers a unique perspective on the pandemic and its impact on the human condition. It is a novel that celebrates the power and beauty of writing, and the resilience and creativity of the human spirit, and I absolutely loved it! More here: The Vulnerables by Sigrid Nunez
Anoniem deur Chanette Paul
Die roman is die vyftigste boek van die gewilde skrywer en meng spannende, romantiese en humoristiese elemente. Dit bied insigte in temas soos die beskerming van persoonlike inligting in die digitale era, morele vraagstukke, leesuitdagings en die ekonomiese krisis in die platteland. Die karakterontwikkeling is goed uitgewerk, en die eksentrieke Lilibet en wyse May Ella was vir my ook besonder treffend. Meer hier: Anoniem deur Chanette Paul
How to Age Disgracefully by Clare Pooley
“How to Age Disgracefully” is a tremendously cute yet insightful read. Whether you’re looking for light relief or a heartwarming story, this book delivers. Clare Pooley’s knack for charming characters and engaging storytelling shines through, making it a joy to read. More here: How to Age Disgracefully by Clare Pooley
The Phoenix Crown by Kate Quinn and Janie Chang
Learning about San Francisco’s history through the novel was an enlightening experience, and I learnt lesser-known aspects of the Chinese immigrant experience post-gold rush. “The Phoenix Crown” is a captivating read that not only entertains but educates, and it left me with a newfound appreciation for the era and its complexities. It’s a story of perseverance, artistry, and the human spirit’s indomitable will, earning it a well-deserved five-star rating from me. More here: The Phoenix Crown by Kate Quinn and Janie Chang
Intermezzo by Sally Rooney
“Intermezzo” is a stunning and emotive novel that explores the complexity of human relationships and the impact of societal norms. The narrative is both messy and beautiful, much like real life, and Rooney’s ability to lay all emotions bare makes for a deeply satisfying read. While the pace can be slow, the intricate plot and character development make it a worthwhile journey. More here: Intermezzo by Sally Rooney
Bessie se Hangkasbiblioteek deur Madelein Rust
As jy op soek is na ‘n boek wat die menslike ervaring met al sy ingewikkeldhede en skoonheid verken, is “Bessie se hangkasbiblioteek” ‘n moet-lees. Dit is ‘n boek wat nie in ‘n spesifieke genre-boksie gedruk kan word nie, maar een wat die skrywer se vermoë om dieper te delf en weg te beweeg van haar vroeë rillers ten volle demonstreer. Dit is ‘n waardige toevoeging tot enige boekrak en ‘n verhaal wat lank by jou sal bly. Meer hier: Bessie se hangkasbiblioteek deur Madelein Rust
There Are Rivers in the Sky by Elif Shafak
“There Are Rivers in the Sky” is a stunning and moving novel that beautifully explores the human experience through the lens of water and its many roles in our lives. From its historical depth to its modern reflections, Shafak’s novel is a remarkable achievement that resonates long after the final page. This is a story that beautifully captures the interconnectedness of human lives and the continuous flow of history and nature. More here: There Are Rivers in the Sky by Elif Shafak
The Traitor’s Wife by Sarah Steele
“The Traitor’s Wife” is more than a typical historical novel, offering a journey through the lesser-explored realms of World War II history. It celebrates the power of resistance and the unyielding spirit of women. Steele’s work stands as a testament to the genre, proving that historical fiction can be both informative and captivating. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in history, human resilience, or the craft of storytelling. More here: The Traitor’s Wife by Sarah Steele
I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue
“I Hope This Finds You Well” is a wild, entertaining journey. It captures the real and raw moments we all encounter, blending tragedy and fun. So, if you’ve ever worked in an office, grab a glass of (South African) wine, settle in, and let Sue’s words resonate with your own experiences. More here: I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue
The Lost Lover by Karen Swan
If you enjoy historical fiction with richly descriptive settings, authentic characters, and a touch of romance and mystery, this book is a must-read. Karen Swan has once again delivered a compelling and beautifully crafted story that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next instalment. More here: The Lost Lover (Wild Isle #3) by Karen Swan
The Paris Muse by Louisa Treger
“The Paris Muse” is an emotional, brilliant, and compelling book. It captures the core of Dora Maar and her complicated relationship with Picasso, so offering a very rich and unforgettable reading experience. This fresh work is a magnificent piece of art in itself, deserving of a spot among the artworks it so brilliantly describes. More here: The Paris Muse by Louisa Treger
Gebooie deur Rudie van Rensburg
Ek moet ook die skrywer se skryfstyl komplimenteer. Van Rensburg se taalgebruik en narratief is vernuftig en hou die leser se aandag vas. Die manier waarop hy die karakters en hul verhoudings uitbeeld, maak hulle geloofwaardig en maklik om mee te identifiseer. “Gebooie” ‘n uitstekende speurverhaal wat ek met vrymoedigheid aan enigeen sou aanbeveel. Ek sal beslis graag meer van hierdie reeks wil lees. Rudie van Rensburg se skryfstyl het my geboei en ek sien uit na die volgende avontuur met Kassie en Rooi. Meer hier: Gebooie deur Rudie van Rensburg
The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
“The Covenant of Water” is more than just a story; it’s an experience that mirrors the ebbs and flows of life itself. It’s a journey through generations, across continents, and within the human heart. For those willing to embark on this journey, the novel promises a profound and moving encounter with the human spirit. More here: The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
Al wat tel deur Irma Venter
“Al wat tel” is ‘n lekkerlees boek wat moeilik is om neer te sit. Die aksie, spanning, en realistiese karakters maak dit ‘n moet-lees vir enigeen wat hou van misdaadfiksie. Irma Venter het weereens bewys waarom sy een van Suid-Afrika se voorste skrywers is. Hierdie boek is ‘n uitstekende toevoeging tot die Ami Prinsloo-reeks en sal lesers laat uitsien na die volgende avontuur. Meer hier: Al Wat Tel (Ami Prinsloo #3) deur Irma Venter
The Excitements by C.J. Wray
From self-defense classes to larceny, the sisters’ “excitements” take them across the world. Paris holds memories they’d rather forget, but it also harbours an old enemy. The suspense, espionage, and tension keep you turning the pages. “The Excitements” is a delightful blend of adventure, humour, and heart. It defies genre expectations and introduces us to characters who remind us that age is just a number. More here: The Excitements by C.J. Wray
Sylvia’s Second Act by Hillary Yablon
“Sylvia’s Second Act” is a celebration of life’s unpredictability and the beauty of embracing change. It’s a novel that encourages readers to laugh, love, and live fully, regardless of the date on their birth certificate. For fans of heartfelt stories with a dash of humour and the enchanting backdrop of New York City, this book is a must read. This book is the Hillary Yablon’s debut novel, I’m already eager to see what she writes next! More here: Sylvia’s Second Act by Hillary Yablon
These 24 books have brought a whirlwind of emotions and thought-provoking narratives into my life this past year. Each one offers a unique perspective and a chance to escape into different worlds. I hope this list inspires you to discover new favourites and perhaps find your next great read.
Happy reading!