My Top Books of 2024: My Best Fiction and Non-Fiction Reads Of The Year

As many of you have told me how much you enjoy reading my book reviews, this article rounds up my top fiction and non-fiction books that I’ve read and reviewed in 2024.

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As the year comes to a close, I’ve enjoyed looking back on all the books I’ve read in 2024 (boy oh boy there were a lot this year!) It was such a delight to put together this list of the top ten books - both fiction and non-fiction this year for you.

I hope you enjoy browsing the list, and if you fancy treating yourself or a loved one to a new book then I’ve included the link to purchase them via Bookshop.com - an online bookshop that supports local bookshops (and for full disclosure I also get a few pence when you place an order!)

Top 10 Books of 2024

Here’s the top 10 novels I’ve read and reviewed in 2024, starting from the bottom (drum roll please)…

10. State of Wonder by Ann Patchett

Ann Patchett's "State of Wonder" is a cracker of a read. It's not a new book, but after I read 'Tom Lake' in 2023 I thought I'd give it a go this year!

The novel plunges you deep into the heart of the Amazon rainforest. It's a wild ride of scientific drama, moral dilemmas, and tangled human connections.

Patchett digs into the murkier sides of pharmaceutical research, asking tough questions about ethics and the price of progress. Dr. Marina Singh, the main character, is thrown into a jungle adventure that shakes up not just her professional beliefs but also exposes her to the wonders of the rainforest.

The setting itself is lush and atmospheric, adding a whole other layer to the story. Patchett's writing is a mix of beauty of this environment and page-turning excitement, creating a sense of wonder that lives up to the title.

The characters are real and relatable, and I found that the story left me with plenty to think about after I finished reading it.

In a nutshell, Ann Patchett's "State of Wonder" is a gripping novel that mixes adventure, moral quandaries, and the breathtaking beauty of the natural world. If you're up for a thought-provoking story with a dash of exotic, this one's a winner!

9. The Psychology of Money By Morgan Housel

This book isn't like my usuals, but I would recommend it! The Psychology of Money is an interesting exploration of how individuals think about and interact with money. 

The book is structured as a series of 20 short essays, each focusing on different aspects of personal finance and the psychology behind why we make certain financial decisions - honestly it's very eye-opening!

Housel’s writing style is accessible and engaging, making complex financial concepts much easier to understand. He incorporates stories and anecdotes that help to illustrate his points and these made it more interesting for me.

It's probably not going to appeal to everyone, but if you are looking to gain a deeper understanding of your attitude to money and want to improve your financial wellbeing then it's definitely worth a read!

I would recommend this book as it’s one that I really remember from the past 12 months, and it really made me think about the topics raised in the book long after I finished it.

8. Someone Else's Shoes by Jojo Moyes

Bestselling author of Me Before You and the Giver of Stars, Jojo Moyes is back with a heartwarming and witty novel that captures the chaos and unexpected twists of life. 

Someone Else's Shoes revolves around two women, Nisha and Sam, whose lives are dramatically altered when they accidentally swap gym bags, leading to an unintended exchange of shoes—and with them, their wider lives. Nisha, used to a life of luxury, suddenly finds herself grappling with the harsh realities of everyday life when she loses her prized red Louboutins. Meanwhile, Sam, burdened by financial struggles and self-doubt, discovers a new sense of confidence through the heels she stumbles upon.

Moyes' has a good ability to create interesting characters that develop as the narrative progresses. Nisha, initially portrayed as a spoiled, out-of-touch woman, evolves into a character we can root for as she navigates the unexpected challenges that life throws her way. Sam, on the other hand, is instantly relatable—as she juggles work, family, and the weight of her own insecurities.

The novel touches on issues such as gender roles, the value society places on appearances, and the pressures women face in different spheres of life. Moyes doesn’t shy away from highlighting the stark differences between the lives of the rich and the not-so-rich, but she also shows that wealth doesn’t necessarily equate to happiness or fulfilment.

Someone Else's Shoes is a heartwarming and thought-provoking novel that encourages readers to look beyond the surface and consider the experiences of others. It's an easy read but also offers depth and insight so I would definitely recommend.

7. Yellowface by Rebecca F Kuang

This book was all over bookshops this year and you cannot miss it with its dazzling yellow cover! 

Yellowface is by Rebecca F Kuang - best known for Babel. It starts off with a story of friendship, with protagonist June in the glamourous apartment of friend and successful novelist Athena who has just written a new manuscript. 

Then, Athena suffering from an unusual and untimely death, June decides to take the manuscript... and the story unravels from there into a dark and weirdly enticing read. The book is written entirely in the first person from June's perspective, and it's very digestible. 

The novel covers a lot! Cultural appropriation, criticism of the literary world. plagiarism, cyber-bullying and 'cancel' culture... there are a lot of big themes in there.

Critics have highlighted the parallels with authors telling stories of cultures that do not represent their own experience (e.g. The Help by Kathryn Stockett). 

The novel can also be seen as a scathing review of what really goes on behind the scenes in publishing. And honestly, it is quite eye-opening if it's based on the truth!

For me it was an unexpected yet compelling narrative that felt very 'Gen-Z' with social media dominating the characters' lives. Although I didn't particularly like the characters and their addiction to social media, I could not put it down! There were so many twists and turns and I found that I was at the end before I even realised it.

6. Little Things by Fearne Cotton

Fearne Cotton's latest book Little Things is all about practical solutions to managing stress. In this "positive toolkit for when life feels stressful" she discusses 5 categories of stressful situations:

1.      Demands - from others, society and the pressure we put on ourselves

2.      Health - how stress affects our health and how health issues can cause a lot of worry and stress

3.      Control - exploring the spectrum of controlling every minute of your day vs feeling wildly out of control

4.      Relationships - a source of great joy and stress, Fearneexplores how to manage relationships better with family, friends and work colleague

5.      Change - when we have big life changes like a house or career move, or are dealing with loss, stress can be vast. 

Combining interviews with experts, friends and family with insight and journaling style activities, this book is full of handy tools and prompts to help you cope when life feels overwhelming.

Fearne Cotton has an extremely relatable style and I found it to be an easy and compelling read - I would recommend particularly getting a physical copy of this as there is space to complete the exercises within it.

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5. The Women by Kristin Hannah

Kristin Hannah’s The Women is a powerful and deeply moving novel that shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked women who served in the Vietnam War. Like many, I had no idea women were so involved, and this book does an exceptional job of bringing their stories to life.

The vivid imagery of life amidst the conflict is unflinching, portraying the gruesome realities of war alongside the friendships and bonds formed on the battlefield. However, it’s the aftermath that hits hardest—when these women return home to a society that offers them little recognition or support. The disparity between how male and female veterans were treated is stark and heartbreaking, and this part of the novel really stayed with me.

More than just an educational read, The Women is a gripping and beautifully told story of resilience and identity. Kristin Hannah captures both the human cost of war and the strength it takes to rebuild in its wake. I’d wholeheartedly recommend it—not just as an important piece of history, but as a truly excellent read.

4. Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan

Claire Keegan’s Small Things Like These is a quietly powerful novella that left a lasting impression on me. Set in a small Irish town during the 1980s, it delicately unravels the layers of poverty and the deeply disturbing reality of the Magdalene laundries. Despite its brevity, this book delivers a thought-provoking exploration of humanity, courage, and the weight of silence.

The story centres around Bill Furlong, a coal and wood merchant, as he goes about his rounds in the lead-up to Christmas. The narrative is understated yet beautiful, capturing the chill of the season and the hardships faced by many in the community. Through Bill’s interactions and observations, the novella shines a light on the complicity of society in the face of institutionalised cruelty.

I’ll admit, the pacing is slow, and if I asked my husband, he’d probably say, “not much happened.” But for me, that’s precisely the point—this isn’t a tale of grand gestures but rather the small, quiet choices that define us. Keegan’s subtle storytelling draws you in completely. I found myself captivated by the moral dilemma Bill faces and the quiet heroism he ultimately displays.

At just over 100 pages, it’s a book you could read in one sitting (I managed it in two), but don’t let its size fool you. It lingers long after the final page. Keegan masterfully combines simplicity and depth, making Small Things Like These a haunting and essential read.

If you’re looking for something profound yet accessible, this novella is well worth your time. It’s a gentle reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness and bravery can ripple through the darkness.

3.  Throne of Glass Series by Sarah J Maas

If you loved Harry Potter I think you will really like this book series!

Sarah J. Maas's Throne of Glass series immerses you in a mythical world where magic, politics, and destiny intertwine with plenty of subplots and twists. Spanning across seven books, this fantasy series follows the journey of Celaena Sardothien, a young assassin with a troubled past, as she navigates treacherous challenges to fulfil her destiny.

The series begins with Throne of Glass, where Celaena competes for her freedom in a high-stakes tournament to become the 'King's Champion'. In this fantastic first book, alliances are forged and secrets are unveiled that set the stage for an expansive and intricate plot that unfolds in the series.

Each book has its own story but fits into the wider plotline and reveals deeper layers of intrigue, mythology, and character development.

Maas's writing is immersive and richly detailed, bringing to life a world filled with both beauty and brutality. Her characters are complex and multidimensional, each with their own motivations and flaws that evolve over time. 

One of the series' strengths lies in its ability to blend intense action sequences with heartfelt moments of friendship, love, and sacrifice. Themes of loyalty, courage, and the consequences of power resonate throughout, making it a deeply resonant experience for readers of all ages.

While some readers may find certain plot twists predictable or elements of the romance melodramatic, there's definitely a reason for the widespread appeal of these novels. Earlier this year I read the entire series of seven books back to back. I have to say they are page-turners and I've got through them quickly!

I am looking forward to exploring some of the spin-offs to this series in 2025 - it’s gentle escapism, perfect for holidays or simply to get away to a new world when life is too busy!

2. Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin

This novel has been on my list for a while - it's a best seller with rave reviews, and I have to say that it doesn't disappoint!

Tomorrow follows the story of Sam Masur and Sadie Green as they navigate their adolescence and early adulthood to become the creators of famous video games in the early naughties. 

I'm not sure what I expected, but it wasn't a book about gaming! To be clear I am not a gamer, and so probably missed a whole bunch of references and 'in-jokes' that any avid gamers will likely heartily enjoy. 

If you like me haven't got into video games, I can assure you there's plenty of meat to this story that you can get your teeth into. In fact I would say the overarching theme of the story is love, but not in the conventional way (no romcom here!)

The novel explores the dynamics of different relationships including love in family, friends and the blurry lines with romantic love.

It also subtlety unearths interesting social issues - including the evolving role of women at work and home, questioning life after death and how creativity evolves with age and other factors.

Overall, I really enjoyed Zevin's depiction of the 90s and 00s and I enjoyed the depth of the characters and interesting themes woven throughout the book. The story really brings you into this world, I devoured the whole thing in just a couple of days. A definite 5 stars from me!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

1. Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

Demon Copperhead is an oldie but a goodie!! This novel is by Barbara Kingsolver and it is an absolute corker! The novel tells the life story of Damon Fields, nicknamed "Demon Copperhead," a boy born into the harsh realities of poverty, the opioid epidemic, and a deeply flawed foster care system in modern America.

Orphaned at a young age, Demon’s journey is one of constant struggle and you journey through his childhood into adulthood gradually over time. You might think that this 'life story' style isn't going to appeal to you as there's no clear beginning, middle and end... but with its fantastic characters and well-crafted storytelling you will soon be sucked in! 

The novel brings to life the struggles of the poorest towns in rural America —economic despair, addiction, and the failure of societal systems meant to protect the vulnerable. While it tackles difficult and often heartbreaking issues (and at one point I almost gave up as I couldn't see how it could get better for poor Demon!) it offers moments of humour, deep human connection and glimmers of hope.

At its core, Demon Copperhead is a story of resilience, survival, and a battle to rise above your circumstances. It's well-written and I would really recommend giving it a read!

This is my top book recommendation from my 2024 reviews! If you read it I'd love to know what you think!

Conclusion

So that brings us to the end of my top books of 2024 round up - I hope you enjoyed the reveal! There is really everything in these top 10 books of 2024 - drama, intrigue, stress-busting, escapism and laughter. I hope you are inspired to read one of them, or perhaps to buy one for a loved one. To view and purchase the full list you can visit my Top 2024 Fiction & Non-Fiction Books page on Bookshop.org here.

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If you’ve got a book (fiction or non-fiction) that you think I should review in 2025 then please drop me a line at hannah@workerbeeyoga.co.uk - I would love to hear from you!