Books have an unparalleled way of drawing us into new worlds, sparking new ideas, and reigniting our imaginations. In 2024, the literary landscape is full of unforgettable gems—stories that stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page and perspectives that change how you see the world. Whether you’re looking to lose yourself in the depths of a mystical mystery, drift into the twists and turns of a fantasy epic, or explore themes of love, courage, and revolution, these books promise to deliver must-reads.
This list is curated with inspiration from BookswithEmilyFox, a YouTube channel loved by book lovers for its insightful reviews and recommendations. Let’s dive into the topics that defined this year in literature!
Dive in and discover the literary treasures everyone is talking about!
1. Gods of the Woods By Liz Moore
Genre: Thriller / Mystery
A chilling thriller that immerses readers in a strange forest where strange disappearances have been going on for decades. Moore expertly blends atmospheric suspense with a deep exploration of human fears and relationships.
What makes this a must-read book:
- Gripping plot twists will keep you on the edge of your seat.
- Perfect for fans of dark mysteries and vivid storytelling.
2. Wedding people By Alison Espach
Genre: Contemporary fiction
This fun and heartwarming novel delves into the chaos, joy and drama of modern marriage. Espach captures the magic and destruction of love and family through a series of intertwined stories that are equal parts hilarious and touching.
What makes this a must-read book:
- Relatable characters and laugh-out-loud moments.
- A fresh perspective on relationships and social expectations.
3. The Blue Sisters By Coco Mailers
Genre: literary fiction
A poignant tale of sisterhood, identity, and betrayal, Blue Sisters uncovers the complexities of two sisters secretly torn apart. Mellor’s evocative prose draws readers into a deeply emotional and unforgettable story.
What makes this a must-read book:
- Beautiful writing with raw emotional depth.
- Explores the bonds that bind and untie families.
4. Salvation of a saint By Keigo Higashino
Genre: Mystery / Crime Fiction
Higashino once again proves his mastery of the crime genre in this captivating tale of love, betrayal and seemingly impossible murder. Every detail matters in this page-turner, and the ending will shock you.
What makes this a must-read book:
- Cleverly plotted with razor-sharp twists.
- A must read for fans of detective stories.
5. A witch comes to call By T. Kingfisher
Genre: a fictional story
When a quiet village is visited by a mysterious sorcerer, its fate is changed forever. Kingfisher weaves a magical, adventurous story with a blend of humor, heart, and unforgettable characters.
What makes this a must-read book:
- Perfect for lovers of whimsical yet touching fantasy.
- Related themes of courage and transformation.
6. Slewfoot By Brom
Genre: Dark Fantasy / Horror
Set in 17th century New England, Slewfoot is a dark and terrifying tale of witchcraft, revenge and survival. With stunning illustrations and vivid storytelling, Brom presents a story that is both chilling and captivating.
What makes this a must-read book:
- A mixture of folklore and horror.
- Beautiful illustrations enhance the reading experience.
7. We used to live here By Marcus Cleaver
Genre: Psychological thriller
This spine-tingling thriller centers on a family who returns to their childhood home, only to uncover sinister secrets that refuse to be buried. Clear’s pacing and suspense make it a difficult read.
What makes this a must-read book:
- Expert builds tension with each chapter.
- Perfect for fans of haunting, atmospheric thrillers.
8. Revolution at point zero By Silvia Federici
Genre: Nonfiction / Feminism
This powerful book examines the often overlooked role of women’s labor in society and the fight for true equality. Federici’s work is as thought-provoking as it is empowering.
What makes this a must-read book:
- A bold, timely exploration of social structures.
- Essential reading for anyone passionate about gender equality and justice.
From spine-tingling thrillers to deeply moving literary works and thought-provoking non-fiction, the best books of 2024 offer a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a suspenseful escape, a journey into fantasy worlds, or a powerful call to action, these eight books are guaranteed to impress. Don’t miss literary gems that are already shaping the conversation and captivating readers worldwide. Which one do you pick up first?