As 2024 comes to an end, book lovers everywhere are looking for stories that captivate, inspire, and spark conversation. But which books have truly dominated the shelves this past year?
We’ve seen the best-selling books from a multitude of publishers and BokTok influencers. However, we’ve decided to use real data from readers worldwide and compiled the most-read books of 2024. Whether you are looking for your next great read or just curious about what everyone is buzzing about, we have you covered!
Let’s explore the titles that are shaping the literary landscape of 2024.
NOTE
In order to rank these books, we’ve collected the most read books for each week of the year from Amazon books and ranked them according to the number of times a particular book has been mentioned in the data set and the average number of weeks it topped the charts. The books are ranked from the least read to the most read.
10. House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas
Topping the charts for 6.5 weeks
ISBN: 9781681193090
This is the third book in Sarah J. Maas’s Crescent City series, following House Of Earth and Blood and House of Sky and Breath. The story picks up after Bryce is stranded in the world of Fae, where she encounters Nesta and Azriel from Maas’s A Court of Thorns and Roses series. But Bryce longs to return to Midgard, where her loved ones are.
However, her mate, Hunt, is imprisoned in the Astreri’s dungeons and does not know what has become of Bryce. As Hunt endures brutal treatment he has to find a way to escape. The story follows both characters as their world is on the verge of collapse, and they are the only ones who can save it.
Why we recommend it: House of Flame and Shadow offers an action-packed, romantic fantasy adventure with intricate world-building and complex characters. Readers will enjoy the high-stakes plot, shocking revelations, steamy romance, and exploration of themes like love, sacrifice, and the power of friendship.
RelatedOur Team’s 10 Favorite Books of 2024: Handpicked Gems for Every Reader
9. Dune by Frank Herbert
Topping the charts for 12.5 weeks
Dune was first published in 1965! It is widely considered a classic of the science fiction genre and has been adapted into several films and TV shows over the years.
The story is set on the desert planet of Arrakis, the only source of spice, a drug that extends life and enhances people’s consciousness. The novel follows Paul Atreides, whose family is given control of Arrakis by the Emperor. However, this is a trap set by the family’s enemies, the Harkonnens, and Atreides is betrayed.
Paul and his mother escape the trap set by their enemies and flee into the desert where they are taken by Fremen, a native tribe of Arrakis, who have adapted to survive the harsh climate of the planet and the giant sandworms. Paul, who possesses special abilities due to his training and exposure to spice, becomes their messiah, leading them into a rebellion against the Harkonnens and the Emperor.
Why we recommend it: Dune is a groundbreaking science fiction novel that offers a rich and immersive reading experience. The intricate world-building, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes have made it a timeless classic and a must-read for all fans of science fiction.
8. It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover
Topping the charts for 33.5 weeks.
ISBN: 9781501110368
This is a well-known novel that has been adapted into a movie just this year, which got mixed reviews. The story follows Lily, a young woman who grew up witnessing domestic abuse in her parent’s marriage. Despite her promise to never be in such a relationship, Lily finds herself falling in love with Ryle, a successful neurosurgeon with a charming personality but also a dark side.
As the story takes an unexpected turn, Ryle’s possessive and anger issues escalate, leading to physical and emotional abuse towards Lily.
Why we recommend it: It Ends With Us tackles a difficult and important topic, raising awareness about domestic abuse and its impact on victims. The novel is emotionally gripping, offering a realistic portrayal of the complexities of abusive relationships.
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7. The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden
Topping the charts for 44 weeks
ISBN: 9781728296227
The story follows Sydney, a single woman in New York City who is desperately looking for a perfect partner. Plagued by bad dating experiences where Sydney encountered men who were liars, cheap, and cheats, her luck seems to change after she encounters the perfect man. He is handsome, charming, and a doctor.
However, in a series of brutal murders targeting women dating a mysterious man stars all over the city. This casts a lot of doubt over Sydney’s new relationship. As the murders continue, Sydney starts to question her boyfriend’s seemingly perfect facade and suspects he might be the killer…
Why we recommend it: The Boyfriend offers a fast-paced and twisty thriller experience characteristic of Freida McFadden’s style. It explores the dangers of online dating and the deceptive nature of appearances, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the mystery.
6. A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas
Topping the charts for 19 weeks
ISBN: 9781635575583
This is the second book of the A Court Of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J. Maas. It follows the story of Freyre, a human woman who was granted the powers and lifespan of the High Fae in the previous book. Haunted by her traumatic experiences, she struggles to adapt to her life in the Spring Court as Tamlin’s fiancee.
As her mental state deteriorates, filled with nightmares and a sense of hollowness, a great evil looms and she is the key to stopping it! But only if she can harness and heal her fractured soul…
Why we recommend it: A Court of Mist and Fury is praised for its immersive world-building, complex characters, and exploration of themes like healing, self-discovery, and the complexities of relationships.
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Subscribe to our weekly newsletter5. The Housemaid Is Watching by Freida McFadden
Topping the charts for 27.5 weeks
ISBN: 9781464223310
This is the third book from The Housemaid series by McFadden. The story takes place 11 years after the events of the second book and follows Millie and Enzo, now married with two children, as well as Ava and Nico, who moved into a new neighborhood on Long Island.
Everything seems great initially, but strange and suspicious occurrences happen in the neighborhood and with the neighbors.
We have a real estate agent who openly flirts with the married Enzo, causing tension in the marriage. We have Janice, a busybody constantly observing the neighborhood, and Martha, who gives chilling stares and makes Millie feel uneasy.
All of that culminates in a murder that occurs in the neighborhood and Millie finds herself drawn into the investigation, trying to uncover the truth and protect her family.
Why we recommend it: The Housemaid Is Watching offers a fast-paced, twisty thriller experience typical of Freida McFadden’s style. Readers familiar with the series will enjoy catching up with Millie and Enzo’s life 11 years later with a story of light, engaging reading, and an unexpected twist.
4. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
Topping the charts for 17.6 weeks
ISBN: 9781635575569
This is the first novel of the popular series by Sarah J. Maas. The story follows Freyre, a 19-year-old huntress living in poverty with her family. To help her family, she hunts in the woods where she kills a faeries disguised as a wolf.
As punishment for breaking a treaty between humans and faeries, she is taken to Prythian, the magical land of the faeries, by Tamlin, a High Lord. Despite expecting punishment, Freyre lives in luxury and gradually becomes accustomed to her new life. She spends a lot of time with Tamlin and falls in love with him.
However, an ancient and evil force known as the blight is spreading across Prythian and a cruel faerie curses Tamlin and his court. Freyre now must face trials, solve riddles, and fight dangerous creatures to save Tamlin and his world. Along the way, she uncovers secrets about the faerie realm and discovers her own strength and resilience.
Why we recommend it: A Court of Thorns and Roses offers an engaging blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure. The novel captivates readers with its immersive world-building, compelling characters, and fast-paced plot. While some find the initial chapters slow, the story picks up momentum, culminating in a thrilling climax.
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3. Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros
Topping the charts for 31.5 weeks
ISBN: 9781649374172
Iron Flame is the second book of The Empyrean series following Fourth Wing which is listed just below! It picks up where the last book left off with Violet returning to Basgiath War College for her second year.
She is no longer a fledgling but she is still underestimated by many, particularly by the new vice commander who seems determined to break her. She becomes involved in researching ancient wards that may hold the key to defeating the enemy of the story. The origins and nature of the venin, a monstrous creature that threatens the world.
On top of that, her relationship with Xaden, a powerful dragon rider is tested by secrets, distance, and the pressures of war.
Why we recommend it: Iron Flame is an action-packed, emotionally charged fantasy novel that will grip readers from the first page. For fans of Fourth Wing, Iron Flame provides answers to lingering questions and sets the stage for even higher stakes in future installments.
2. The Women by Kristin Hannah
Topping the charts for 24.5 weeks
ISBN: 9781250178633
The Women is a historical fiction novel set in the Vietnam War and its aftermath. The story follows Frances, a young woman from a privileged background who defies her family’s expectations and enlists in the Army Nurse Corps.
She has a strong desire to save her country and prove that “women can be heroes too”! She embarks on a life-changing journey that takes her from the sun-drenched shores of California to the chaotic battlefields of wartorn Vietnam.
Why we recommend it: The Women is a powerful and emotionally charged novel that sheds light on the often-overlooked experiences of women in war. It is a compelling read for those seeking a story that honors the unsung heroes of war, celebrates the resilience of the human spirit, and reminds us that even in the darkest of times, hope and healing are possible.
1. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Topping the charts for 26.8 weeks
ISBN: 9781649374042
This is the first novel of The Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros and is the most-read novel of 2024! Rebecca Yarros has really had a big year with her books in 2024.
The story follows Violet, a young woman who has always dreamed of becoming a scribe, learning everything she can from books about Navarre, a land protected by a magic ward and defended by elit dragon riders.
However, her mother, a powerful general, forces her to join the Basgiath War College, a brutal training college for dragon riders.
Violet faces intense challenges, prejudices, and constant danger as she fights to survive and prove her worth. This is where she meets Xaden, a powerful and enigmatic dragon rider with whom she develops a passionate and forbidden romance.
As all of this is happening, a threat of the venin looms on Navarre. The Venin is a mysterious enemy that can create dangerous creatures. Violet, Xaden, and the dragon riders must rise and defend their homeland against the incoming threat!
Why we recommend it: This book offers a thrilling blend of high-stakes action, enemies-to-lovers romance, and intricate dragon lore that has captivated a vast audience in 2024!
In 2024, it seems that readers gravitated towards fantasy, mystery, and historical fiction novels as the most-read books in 2024 based on real booklovers data. All of the books on the list reflect a collective thirst for knowledge, imagination, and determination to prove yourself in life. Whether you are a seasoned bibliophile or a curious newcomer, this list offers something for everyone to enjoy.
