2024 was an incredible year of reading for me! From thought-provoking fiction to insightful non-fiction, each book left a lasting impression. Here’s my countdown of the top 10 books I read this year. I’ve included brief reviews, highlights, and why each one deserves a spot on your reading list.
10. The Housemaid is Watching
Author: Freida McFadden
Genre:Thriller
The plot twist at the end of this book left me completely stunned—I did not see it coming! While the finale was a standout, I felt that adding more twists throughout the story could have kept me more entertained. Despite this, the tension and suspense were gripping enough to earn it a place in my top 10. That’s why it lands at number 10 on my list.
9. Twisted Love
Author: Anna Huang
Genre:Romance
Twisted Love delivers on fan-favorite romance tropes like “grumpy meets sunshine,” “brother’s best friend,” and “forced proximity.” These elements create tension and emotional depth, which keeps readers engaged
8. If he had been with me
Author:Laura Nowlin
Genre: Young Adult Romance
The book explores themes like grief, trauma, forgiveness, and personal growth. These deeper layers resonate with readers and add emotional weight to the romance.
7. It Ends With Us
Author:Colleen Hoover
Genre: Romance
This book takes a deep and poignant dive into the complexities of domestic violence relationships. Through the main character, Lily, readers witness how past trauma—like seeing her father abuse her mother—can shape one’s perspective and choices. The story courageously explores the cycles of abuse and the strength it takes to break free from them.
What makes It Ends with Us such a powerful read is its raw emotional depth and relatability. It’s not just a love story; it’s a tale of resilience, growth, and understanding the importance of self-worth.
6. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
Author:Taylor Jenkins Reid
Genre: Historical Fiction/Romance
The story explores themes of love, identity, fame, and sacrifice, set against the glamorous yet complex backdrop of old Hollywood. It delves into LGBTQ+ relationships, societal expectations, and personal ambition, making it a richly layered narrative that appeals to a wide range of readers.
5. The Ex
Author:Freida McFadden
Genre:Thriller
The novel is packed with suspense, mind-bending twists, and unreliable characters that keep readers guessing until the very end. Frieda McFadden is known for her ability to craft gripping and fast-paced stories, and *The Ex* is no exception, exploring themes of obsession, deceit, and the darker sides of relationships. It’s a perfect pick for fans of thrillers that deliver shocking surprises.
4. One True Love
Author:Taylor Jenkins Reid
Genre:Romance
One True Loves masterfully explores the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery. Emma finds herself in an impossible situation, torn between her husband, Jesse, whom she thought was dead, and her fiancé, Sam, who helped her rebuild her life. The confusion Emma feels as she navigates her feelings for both men is deeply relatable and poignant.
What makes this book unforgettable is the surprising yet satisfying ending, where Emma ultimately makes her decision. This decision showcases her growth and understanding of what she truly wants in life, making the story not just about romantic love but also about personal identity and moving forward.
3. The Silent Patient
Author:Alex Michaelides
Genre:Thriller
The twist in The Silent Patient is what truly sets it apart. Without giving too much away, readers eventually discover that Theo, the narrator, is not just an observer but deeply intertwined with the story. The revelation that Theo was the person who indirectly triggered the events leading to Gabriel's murder is jaw-dropping. This twist recontextualizes the entire narrative and showcases Michaelides' brilliance in leading readers to an unexpected yet logical conclusion.
2. Birthday Girl
Author:Penelope Douglas
Genre:Romance
The story delves into themes of forbidden love, age-gap romance, and personal growth, creating an emotionally charged and steamy narrative. It’s known for its mature characters, complex relationships, and the exploration of societal norms, making it a popular choice among fans of intense and unconventional romance novels.
1. Verity
Author:Colleen Hoover
Genre:Thriller/Suspense
Verity is one of those books that grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go. The intense and suspenseful storyline makes it impossible to put down. With every chapter, the layers of mystery surrounding Verity’s life and the unsettling manuscript she leaves behind deepen, keeping you hooked.
The shocking plot twist takes the story to a whole new level, leaving readers questioning what’s real and what’s fabricated. And that ending? It’s an absolute whirlwind that leaves you wondering and debating long after you’ve finished. I don’t know about you, but after reading Verity, I need a part two from Colleen Hoover! It’s an unforgettable blend of suspense, intrigue, and emotional complexity that will keep you turning pages late into the night.
Reading has been such a rewarding journey in 2024, and these books were the highlights of my year. Have you read any of these? Or do you have your own recommendations? Share your favorites in the comments below!
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