2024 brought tons of great (and some not-so-great) pop culture items. The books have been especially memorable. The top 5 best and most memorable books from 2024, in no particular order, are Murder Road by Simone St. James, Tangled Up in You by Christina Lauren, Nothing Like the Movies by Lynn Painter, Reckless by Lauren Roberts, and The Eras Tour Book by Taylor Swift. All of the books have different great elements that make us excited to pick up a book
In Murder Road by Simone St. James, soon-to-be-wed April and Eddie take a wrong turn on the way to their potential honeymoon destination. They spot a hitchhiker and pick him up, not realizing the blood seeping from his jacket. When the hitchhiker dies at the local hospital, April and Eddie find themselves as the only suspects in his murder case. They learn that there have been a long line of unexplained murders on that same road and they are now the main suspects for each murder. As they dig deeper into the road’s history, they find something supernatural is at hand that could tear the town and themselves apart. The book was a fast-paced, entertaining, and gripping ghost story all throughout. St. James keeps the reader guessing up until the last minute while also allowing for moments that truly give the reader chills. Her ability to develop characters and plot points while still keeping readers on the edge of their seats is truly wonderful.
In Tangled Up in You by Christina Lauren is a story that follows Tessa, a woman who has had horrible experiences in the past, and Sam, a charming guy who seems to have his own baggage. Their chemistry is instant and undeniable, and the way Lauren develops their relationship is heartwarming and relatable. She does a fantastic job at creating characters who feel real and who have relatable flaws. Tessa and Sam’s journey is full of growth, heartwarming moments, and witty banter. This book may not be for everybody, but if you love a sweet and well-developed (kind of cheesy) love story, this book is for you.
Nothing Like The Movies by Lynn Painter follows Liz Buxbaum, a rom-com lover trying to win back her childhood crush, Wes Bennett. With her neighbor Michael posing as her fake boyfriend, Liz’s plans awry as unexpected feelings develop, showing her that real-life love isn’t always like the movies. Painter keeps readers hooked with witty dialogue, laugh-out-loud humor, and authentic, relatable characters navigating the messiness of relationships. Her ability to blend heartfelt moments with playful banter makes the story irresistibly engaging. Fans of contemporary romance will love its fresh take on love, self-discovery, and the gap between fantasy and reality.
Reckless by Lauren Roberts is an electrifying fantasy that follows Paedyn, a cunning young woman hiding a deadly secret, and Kai, a relentless soldier with his own demons. Paedyn’s survival hinges on deception in a world where she is hunted, while Kai is tasked with uncovering the truth. Their lives intertwine amidst intrigue, danger, and forbidden emotions, as alliances shift and the stakes grow higher. Lauren Roberts keeps readers engaged with a masterful blend of high-stakes action, sharp tension, and an irresistible slow-burn romance. Rich world-building and morally complex characters make this a must-read for fans of gripping, character-driven fantasy stories.
Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour Book is a beautifully curated celebration of her transformative journey through music and artistry. The book highlights each era of her career, offering behind-the-scenes insights, iconic moments, and reflections on the stories behind her music. With stunning visuals and exclusive content, it’s an immersive experience for fans. This book is a must-read for anyone inspired by Swift’s evolution as a songwriter, performer, and cultural icon. It captures her creative process, personal growth, and deep connection with her fans, making it a treasure for long-time admirers and newcomers alike.