Best Books of 2024…and the Worst
In 2024, I read a total of 85 books and while many of those were hits, there were also a few misses. So, I thought it could be interesting to look back on the year and put together a rapid-fire list of my favourite and least favourite books for each month of the year.
I say favourite and least favourite instead of best and worst because in many cases, my least favourite book wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t as good as the other books I read that month. “But doesn’t the title—” Yes, I know. I beg your forgiveness for the most minor event of clickbait you’ll probably endure this entire day.
(idea credit to @heaths.bookclub on Instagram)
January
Favourite
Rating: 4.75 ★
Genre: Contemporary Romance
A brilliant portrayal of how people can hide behind the “nice guy” persona and ultimately cause more harm than people who are overtly hostile. Full of drama, betrayal, grief, love and the complexities of friendship.
Least Favourite
Rating: 3.0 ★
Genre: Fantasy, Magical Realism
With fantasy and coffee in a glorious combo, I was so excited about this but unfortunately, it fell flat. I was honestly just bored.
February
Favourite
Rating: 4.5 ★
Genre: Contemporary Romance
The chemistry between these characters was scrumptious. Tarah DeWitt just gets it.
Honourable mention: Bride by Ali Hazelwood
Least Favourite
Rating: 3.0 ★
Genre: Contemporary Romance
I was in the mood for mindless fluff and that’s exactly what I got.
March
Favourite
Rating: 4.75 ★
Genre: Fantasy Novella
This is so beautifully written. It’s probably not for everyone but I love how Patrick Rothfuss weaves his messages about life into his stories.
Honourable mentions:
Least Favourite
Rating: 2.0 ★
Genre: Historical Fiction, Magic, Mystery, Romance
The premise of this book had so much potential but it’s a no for me. I should’ve DNFd this.
April
Favourite
Rating: 5 ★
Genre: Urban Fantasy, Mystery, Horror
Obsessed, I tell you. Fucking obsessed.
Least Favourite
Rating: 2.0 ★
Genre: Historical Fiction, Magic, Mystery, Romance
I can’t believe I didn’t learn my lesson with Keeper of Enchanted Rooms. Again, I should’ve DNFd this.
May
Favourite
Rating: 4.75★
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Emily Henry cannot be stopped. What a joy to read her books.
Honourable mention: Savor It by Tarah DeWitt
Least Favourite
Rating: 3.75 ★
Genre: YA Fantasy, Dystopian, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy
Absolutely loved the writing and the story was very interesting but it was just a bit too YA for me to get fully into it. I’m clearly not the target audience for this, but otherwise, it was great.
June
Favourite
Rating: 5 ★
Genre: Urban Fantasy, Mystery, Horror
Bury me with this book. I beg you.
Honourable mentions:
Least Favourite
Rating: 3.0 ★
Genre: Fantasy Romance, Paranormal
I wasn’t convinced to jump onto the Zodiac Academy train by this first book but I may give the series another shot in future.
July
Favourite
Rating: 5 ★
Genre: Historical Fiction, Travel, Adventure
Spectacular. Some of the quotes from this book will stick with me forever.
Honourable mentions:
Least Favourite
Rating: 3.0 ★
Genre: Fantasy Romance, Romantasy
Fun but a bit meh.
August
Favourite
Rating: 5 ★
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Literary Fiction
One of the most beautiful things I’ve ever read. Truly a standout.
Least Favourite
Rating: 3.0 ★
Genre: Contemporary Romance
A therapy ad disguised as a book.
September
Favourite
Rating: 4.75 ★
Genre: Fantasy, Comedy
What a laugh. This genuinely had me cackling out loud.
Least Favourite
Rating: 3.5 ★
Genre: Romantasy, Paranormal
There were aspects of this that I really enjoyed but as a whole, I didn’t love it.
October
Favourite
Rating: 4.25 ★
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Not in the same league as Emily Henry, in my opinion, but still great fun.
Least Favourite
Rating: 3.5 ★
Genre: Science Fiction, Romance, Time Travel
Adored the concept but was a bit disappointed with the delivery.
November
Favourite
Rating: 4.5 ★
Genre: Epic Fantasy
The masses love Robin Hobb for a very good reason.
Honourable mentions:
Least Favourite
Rating: 3 ★
Genre: Romance, Novella, Christmas
I think this is a “it’s not you, it’s me” kind of moment. I just struggle with Christmas as a brand.
December
Favourite
Rating: 4.5 ★
Genre: High Fantasy, Mystery, Science Fiction
One of those books that immediately reminds you why you love fantasy as a whole genre.
Least Favourite
Rating: 3.5 ★
Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Dystopian,
The narrator of the audiobook saying “Darrow” in that whiny, pompous voice honestly haunts my dreams.