My Favorite 25 Reads of 2024: A Year of Unforgettable Stories

As 2024 draws to a close, I can’t help but look back on the incredible books that shaped my year. From epic fantasy to heartfelt contemporary fiction, this year’s reads brought me joy, tears, and a few too many sleepless nights. Narrowing this list down was no easy task, especially when it meant showing superhuman restraint in my Maas-verse and Guild Hunter selections.

Here’s the rundown, starting with books published in 2024, followed by gems I discovered (or rediscovered) from earlier years.

Books Published in 2024

• The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst
  A cottagecore romantasy filled with stolen spellbooks, unexpected friendships, and a sentient spider plant. Kiela’s journey from reclusive librarian to secret spellshop owner is as magical as it is heartwarming, making this the perfect start to an enchanting new series.

• Quicksilver by Callie Hart
  Dark, brooding, and irresistibly romantic, this standalone had me hooked from the first page. Hart weaves intense chemistry with a stormy plot that’s impossible to put down.

• Candle and Crow by Kevin Hearne
  The bittersweet finale to the Ink & Sigil series and the world of the Iron Druid Chronicles gave me all the feels. Watching Atticus finally get his happily-ever-after was the perfect way to say goodbye to a world I’ve loved for so long.

• Accidental Demons by Clare Edge
  The only middle-grade book on my list, this hilarious and heartfelt tale of magical mishaps is brimming with charm. It’s perfect for readers of all ages who need a little whimsy in their lives.

• Phantasma by Kaylie Smith
  A dreamlike, haunting fantasy filled with whimsy and shadow. Smith’s lush storytelling and atmospheric world-building create a reading experience that lingers long after the final page.

• Rise and Divine by Lana Harper
  Another magical masterpiece from Harper! This Thistle Grove installment combines her signature humor with themes of empowerment and personal growth, making it another standout in one of my favorite series.

• It Will Only Hurt for a Moment by Delilah S. Dawson
  This deeply personal story about pain and healing is achingly beautiful. Dawson’s honesty and emotional depth make it a book I’ll never forget.

• Pumpkin Spice & Poltergeist by Ali K. Mulford and K. Elle Morrison
  Cozy, spooky, and brimming with autumn vibes, this paranormal mystery is as delightful as its title. The perfect pick for anyone craving some lighthearted ghostly fun.

• Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus: Odyssey by Lydia Sherrer
  Another magical romp in the Lily Singer Adventures, this book delivers the humor, heart, and chaos I’ve come to love from the series.

• Archangel's Lineage by Nalini Singh
  I devoured the entire Guild Hunter series this year, so picking just one was hard—but Archangel's Lineage was a standout. Singh’s ability to balance high-stakes action with emotional depth is unmatched.

• House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas
  Maas continues to raise the stakes in Crescent City, and this installment was a wild ride from start to finish. Every twist had me on edge, and I’m already desperate for the next book.

• Yesterday's News by Katie Cawood
  This tender contemporary debut about starting over and rediscovering strength feels like a warm hug. A heartfelt and uplifting story that stayed with me long after I turned the last page.

Books I Read in 2024 That Were Previously Published

• Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree
  Utter perfection. This cozy fantasy about coffee, second chances, and finding your place in the world quickly became one of my comfort reads. Every page was a delight.

• True Love Bites by Joy Demorra
  Representation matters, and this book delivers: LGBTQIA+, polyamory, and disability are all woven into a spicy and heartfelt romance. It’s witty, sharp, and wonderfully unique.

• How to Protect Bookstores and Why by Danny Caine
  A love letter to indie bookstores and a rallying cry for why they matter. Short but powerful, it’s essential reading for any book lover.

• Starter Villain by John Scalzi
  Scalzi’s irreverent humor and sharp twists shine in this hilarious sci-fi romp. It’s the kind of book that has you grinning and gasping all at once.

• The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic by Breanne Randall
  Fiercely resonant, this story is about the shields we build to protect ourselves. Equal parts whimsical and heart-wrenching, it’s a beautifully layered tale that left a deep mark.

• The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
  A charming, heartwarming story about found family and the magic of belonging. This book is like a cozy hug for the soul.

• Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir
  The Locked Tomb series is masterful, and it all starts with Gideon. Necromancy, space, and a sarcastic, sword-wielding heroine? This book is everything.

• Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood
  Nerdy, hilarious, and heartfelt. Hazelwood’s chemistry-filled rom-com stole my heart and cemented her as a go-to author for me.

• The Crown of Gilded Bones by Jennifer L. Armentrout
  Hot take: I like the From Blood and Ash series more than ACOTAR, and this book is proof of why. The world, the stakes, the romance—it’s all incredible.

• Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
  A stunning fantasy debut that combines dragons, military academy vibes, and unforgettable characters. This book deserves every ounce of its hype.

• Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J. Maas
  Picture this: I’m on a plane, sobbing uncontrollably as the Throne of Glass finale completely destroys me. It’s one of the most emotional, epic conclusions I’ve ever read.

• Back in a Spell by Lana Harper
  With non-binary representation and Harper’s signature charm, this Thistle Grove installment feels like it was written specifically for me. It’s sharp, funny, and utterly magical.

• A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas
  Cassian and Nesta are hands down my favorite ACOTAR couple. Their fiery dynamic and emotional growth make this book unforgettable.

Each of these stories brought something unique to my 2024 reading journey, whether it was laughter, tears, or the simple joy of being utterly swept away. What books made your year? Let’s swap recommendations in the comments or on social media—I can’t wait to hear from you!