My 2024 Ultimate Book Review: ACOTAR and more!
I’ve read all sorts of books in 2024, so here’s my ultimate 2024 book review! As we’re starting 2025, it’s the perfect time to do a 2024 book review wrap up, including a few from the very end of 2023. I ended up reading a whopping 40 books – everything from the beloved ACOTAR series, to some of New York Times’ Bestsellers. Here are my thoughts on some of the most popular books in 2024! If you love reading too, join me and my book club for our reading list for 2025!
- Lessons in Chemistry – Bonnie Garmus (4.75/5)
- The Silent Patient – Alex Michaelides (4 / 5)
- People We Meet on Vacation – Emily Henry(2/5)
- Book Lovers – Emily Henry (5 / 5)
- Beach Read – Emily Henry (3 / 5)
- None of This is True – Lisa Jewell (4.5 / 5)
- The Housemaid – Freida McFadden (4.5 / 5)
- 7 Husbands of Evelyn Hugo – Taylor Jenkins Reid (5 / 5)
- Wildfire – Hannah Grace (1 / 5)
- Ugly Love – Colleen Hoover (3 / 5)
- Verity – Colleen Hoover (3.75 / 5)
- It Ends With Us – Colleen Hoover (4 / 5)
- The Last Word – Taylor Adams (3.5 / 5)
- The Manor House – Gilly MacMillan (3 / 5)
- ACOTAR Series – Sarah J. Maas (5 / 5)
- A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder – Holly Jackson (4 / 5)
- The Inheritance Games Series – Jennifer Lynn Barnes (4 / 5)
- Tomorrow, & Tomorrow, & Tomorrow – Gabrielle Zevin (5 / 5)
- Good Material – Dolly Alderton (3 / 5)
- Yellowface – R.F. Kuang (4.5 / 5)
A Book Lover’s Favorite Christmas Gift
Dom had the BEST idea this year and gave me my dream Christmas present – 1 minute to pick out as many books as I wanted at the book store. I spent 3 minutes checking out my options and then grabbed as many as I could carry in one minute. It was so hectic, but so much fun. The absolute perfect gift! As I was putting away all of my new books, I realized it was the perfect time to do a 2024 book review wrap up!
Lessons in Chemistry – Bonnie Garmus (4.75 / 5)
Our first book is Lessons in Chemistry, by Bonnie Garmus. This is the book that I really got me back into reading. It’s a historical fiction about romance, love, and self development. It was a really, really fun read. I believe this book is Bonnie Garmus’s debut as a novelist. – she used to be a script writer and I think that’s what made this book so special. When you’re reading, it feels like you’re watching a sit-com. The dialogue and banter was so good, I’m giving this book a 4.76 out of 5 – I highly recommend!
A BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR: The New York Times, Washington Post, NPR, Oprah Daily, Entertainment Weekly, Newsweek
An inspiring story about Elizabeth Zoltan, a brilliant chemist in the 1960s navigating a sexist world. Balancing career challenges, unexpected love, and motherhood – she defies norms with her humor, resilience, and an unconventional cooking show that empowers women.
The Silent Patient – Alex Michaelides (4 / 5)
Next, The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides. This psychological thriller was the ultimate page turner. I finished the whole thing in 2 days. I just couldn’t put it down! It was so fast paced and quick, it got me hooked right away. There were a few plot twists in the middle that I wasn’t expecting, but I did find the ending a little too predictable for my liking. Overall, I do recommend it if you like a thriller.
THE INSTANT #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
Alicia, a famous artist, stops speaking after being accused of murdering her husband. Psychotherapist Theo becomes obsessed with uncovering her motive, leading to shocking twists as secrets unravel and the truth proves to be darker than anyone could imagine.
People We Meet on Vacation – Emily Henry (2 / 5)
I’ve read a few books by Emily Henry this year, including People We Meet on Vacation. Unfortunately I just really did not enjoy this book at all. The most important part of romance plots for me is that you really have to really connect with and root for the main character couple. With this book, I just really couldn’t relate to or care for them. I know this author has a huge cult following, but the disappointing plot of this book really discouraged me from reading her other works.
“From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Book Lovers and Beach Read comes a sparkling novel that will leave you with the warm, hazy afterglow usually reserved for the best vacations.”
A heartfelt, funny romance about Alex and Poppy – best friends with opposite personalities who vacation together yearly. After a falling out, they reunite for one last trip and revisit old feelings to decide if friendship can turn into love.
Book Lovers – Emily Henry (5 / 5)
Luckily, her next book, Book Lovers, was so good! This was such a difference from People We Meet. I especially loved the really cute subplot about family and sister bonds. If you love cute romance books, this one was easy to read. It’s fun, touching, and so cute! I definitely recommend reading this book. After reading this book, I understand her cult following now!
“Named a Most Anticipated Book of 2022 by Oprah Daily ∙ Today ∙ Parade ∙ Marie Claire ∙ Bustle ∙ PopSugar ∙ Katie Couric Media ∙ Book Bub ∙ SheReads ∙ Medium ∙ The Washington Post ∙ and more!“
A tender romance about Nora, a cutthroat literary agent, and Charlie, a brooding editor. Their professional rivalry turns personal during a summer in a small town – exploring love, family, and the stories we tell ourselves about who we are.
Beach Read – Emily Henry (3 / 5)
Next up from Emily Henry we have Beach Read. You guessed it- another one I didn’t like. I started out excited after Book Lovers, but this was definitely another flop for me. Again, I didn’t really care for the overall storyline, and I found it to be very, very long. It was hard for me to get through, not one I would recommend.
“FROM THE #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF PEOPLE WE MEET ON VACATION AND BOOK LOVERS!“
A tender romance about Nora, a cutthroat literary agent, and Charlie, a brooding editor. Their professional rivalry turns personal during a summer in a small town – exploring love, family, and the stories we tell ourselves about who we are.
None of This is True – Lisa Jewell (4.5 / 5)
None of This is True by Lisa Jewell is another amazing page turner! I finished this psychological thriller in 2 days. I still remember so many details from this book even after months. It had me gasping throughout – I even had to set the whole book down to process what just happened. It’s that intense. The twists and turns are so interesting I find myself thinking about them to this day. However, make sure to check the trigger warnings before you read because it definitely gets really dark and twisted. I really hope they make this one into a Netflix series or show!
“From the #1 New York Times bestselling author known for her “superb pacing, twisted characters, and captivating prose” (BuzzFeed), Lisa Jewell returns with a scintillating new psychological thriller about a woman who finds herself the subject of her own popular true crime podcast.
A podcaster crosses paths with a mysterious woman harboring dark secrets. What begins as a casual connection spirals into manipulation, violence, and a harrowing journey to uncover the shocking truth.
The Housemaid – Freida McFadden (4.5 / 5)
Next, we have another psychological thriller, The Housemaid by Freida McFadden. This one was absolutely amazing! I finished in one day because I literally could not wait to find out what happened next. I remember reading it, gasping the whole time, and having to put it down to process before picking it back up and repeating. I also really enjoyed that this was told from 3 different perspectives. Highly, highly recommend this one. I think there are 2 more books in the series, but I haven’t read them yet. If you have, let me know if it’s worth it to continue in the comments!
“Don’t miss the New York Times and USA Today bestseller and addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping twist that’s burning up Instagram and TikTok–Freida McFadden’s The Housemaid is perfect for fans of Ruth Ware, Lisa Jewell, and Verity.“
Millie, a young woman with a troubled past, becomes the live-in housekeeper for the wealthy Winchester family. As she uncovers unsettling secrets, she finds herself caught in a web of manipulation, danger, and survival.
7 Husbands of Evelyn Hugo – Taylor Jenkins Reid (5 / 5)
My next read is The 7 Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid. I think this is the book that really made me fall in love with Taylor Jenkins Reid’s writing. She write books that feel more like a memoir than anything else. This book is about romance, fame, old Hollywood, and just balancing everything in your life. It is a little slow in the beginning but it’s so beautifully written it really just captivates you. Very highly recommend!
“If you’re looking for a book to take on holiday this summer, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo has got all the glitz and glamour to make it a perfect beach read.” —Bustle“
Aging Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo reveals her scandalous life story to a young journalist – uncovering her seven marriages, forbidden love, and the sacrifice behind fame. A tale of ambition, identity, and the complexities of love and loyalty.
Wildfire – Hannah Grace (1 / 5)
I wanted to share some spicy books I’ve read, like Wildfire by Hannah Grace. Let me preface this one by saying I do not mind books with spice. However, I do not like a spicy book without a plot – when it’s spicy just to be spicy. I feel like this one really just had no plot, and I just did not enjoy it. I’m not sure how it’s a New York Times bestseller.
“INSTANT #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER“
After a one night stand, Aurora and Russ unexpectedly reunite as counselors at a summer camp with a strict no-fraternization policy. As they navigate personal challenges and growing attraction, they must decide whether to risk their jobs for love.
Ugly Love – Colleen Hoover (3 / 5)
Next, let’s get into some Collen Hoover books, like Ugly Love. The good thing about a Colleen Hoover book is they’re always really fast paced, which gets you addicted right away. However, because they’re so fast paced, they feel like they end really abruptly. Ugly Love was exactly that. It was also written from 2 different perspectives – I definitely liked one more than the other. I was skipping parts of an entire perspective to just get to the next chapter, because I really didn’t care for that storyline. Overall, it was just okay.
“From Colleen Hoover, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of It Starts with Us and It Ends with Us, aheart-wrenching love story that proves attraction at first sight can be messy.
Tate and Miles agree to a no strings physical relationship, avoiding love due to Miles’ painful past. As their connection depends, buried emotions resurface, forcing them to confront heartbreak, vulnerability, and whether or not love is worth the risk.
Verity – Colleen Hoover (3.75 / 5)
Verity was a thriller from Colleen Hoover. I felt like it was a fun read, so I finished it in a day and a half. Personally, I found it to be really predictable, just like the feedback I give with any of her other books. Everything happens really fast, but also just ends out of nowhere. I wish it had a little more detail, but overall it was a quick, easy read.
“Whose truth is the lie? Stay up all night reading the sensational psychological thriller that has readers obsessed, from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Too Late and It Ends With Us.
Lowen, a struggling writer, is hired to complete best selling author Verity Crawford‘s unfinished series. While sorting through Verity’s notes, she discovers a chilling manuscript revealing dark secrets, blurring the lines between truth and deception.
It Ends With Us – Colleen Hoover (4 / 5)
I’m sure everyone knows about this one – It Ends With Us – by now since the movie was made. A lot of people has either seen it or read it. I actually really enjoyed this book, however, the movie was a flop for me and I rated it 2 / 5 stars. If you’re interested in this story, I definitely recommend reading the book instead. I have the second book, It Starts With Us, but I haven’t read it – so drop a comment if you feel like it’s worth it to continue or not!
“NOW A MAJOR MOTION PICTURE STARRING BLAKE LIVELY AND JUSTIN BALDONI!“
“Lily hasn’t always had it easy, but that’s never stopped her from working hard for the life she wants. She’s come a long way from the small town where she grew up—she graduated from college, moved to Boston, and started her own business. And when she feels a spark with a gorgeous neurosurgeon named Ryle Kincaid, everything in Lily’s life seems too good to be true.”
The Last Word – Taylor Adams (3.5 / 5)
The Last Word by Taylor Adams is the book we just read for our book club on Discord. I found the premise of this book so interesting. But, it just didn’t deliver. I wish it had more to it because I really loved the idea of the plot. The book itself just kind of fell flat for me, which was disappointing.
“After posting a negative review of a horror novel, a woman staying at an isolated beach house begins to wonder if the author is a little touchy—or very, very dangerous—in this pulse-pounding novel of psychological suspense and terror from the critically acclaimed author of No Exit and Hairpin Bridge.“
The Manor House – Gilly MacMillan (3 / 5)
Another thriller I’ve read this year is The Manor House. I think this book actually had too many plot twists for my liking. At one point, I didn’t even know what was happening. There were way too many characters, too many twists, and I was a little bit overwhelmed. It took me about a week to finish because it was hard for me to get through. At one point it was almost underwhelming, because there were just too many surprises. I don’t know if I would recommend this book.
“From the New York Times bestselling author of The Nanny and What She Knew comes the terrifying story of what can happen after all your dreams come true.“
Nicole and Tom, after winning the lottery, construct a grand home at Lancaster Manor. When Tom is found dead, Nicole begins unraveling hidden truths, uncovering dark secrets, and questioning the trustworthiness of those around her.
ACOTAR Series – Sarah J. Maas (5 / 5)
Of course, we have to talk about the ACOTAR Series by Sarah J. Maas. I would absolutely do anything to be able to read these books again for the first time. It’s such a good series and I still think about it to this day. I actually reread 2 of the books again, they were just that good. As with any fantasy book, I do think it takes some time to set up the world, but once you dive into it, it’s so worth it. If you love fantasy, romance, high stakes emotional drama, adventure, war, and strategy – this is the series for you. It does have some spice, but has the plot to match. I’m so obsessed with a bunch of the characters from these books. It’s such an emotional rollercoaster that you’ll want to go on over and over again. I can’t recommend this series enough!
““Passionate, violent, sexy and daring.” –USA TODAY on A Court of Thorns and Roses“
Feyre, a mortal huntress, is thrust into the fae world after killing a wolf and sparking a journey of love, war, and self discovery. Amid court politics, ancient magic, and looming threats, she must fight to protect everything she loves.
Lynn Painter
As I’m sure you know, Lynn Painter is my favorite author and her books are always 5/5 for me. These 3 were no exception. Her books are all really similar in a sense that they’re YA, cute, feel good romances with a subplot of family, friendship, and self development. They always get me laughing, crying, and swooning. Her writing always reminds me of K Dramas, if you love those then you will definitely enjoy anything she writes. Her book covers are also so cute, if I could rate those alone – definitely 5/5.
The Do Over – Lynn Painter (5 / 5)
“In this “unequivocally hilarious and delightful” (Kirkus Reviews) young adult romp for fans of Recommended for You and A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow, a teen girl has the worst Valentine’s Day ever—only to relive it over and over again.“
Emilie Hornby is stuck reliving the same disastrous Valentine’s Day on a loop, forcing her to confront mistakes, family struggles, and perfectionism. Along the way, an unexpected connection with her charming lab partner, Nick, changes everything.
Better Than The Movies – Lynn Painter (5 / 5)
“A USA TODAY and New York Times bestseller“
Liz, a hopeless romantic and high school senior, teams up with her annoying neighbor Wes to catch her childhood crush’s attention. Liz soon realizes the perfect love story might be closer than she ever expected.
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder – Holly Jackson (4 / 5)
I read a couple of young adult thrillers this year, including the A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder series. I believe they already made these into a Netflix series, but I really enjoyed the first 2 books. Even though it’s YA, it was really fast paced and intense. I read the first book in 1 day and the second book in 2 days. I haven’t started the 3rd yet so let me know if you recommend I continue!
“NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING SERIES • The must-read mystery series everyone is talking about that began with A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is now available in a three-book paperback boxed set!“
Pip investigates a closed murder case for her school project, delving into the unsolved death of Andie Bell. As she uncovers buried secrets and hidden dangers, Pip discovers the truth may be darker, and closer, than she ever imagined.
The Inheritance Games Series – Jennifer Lynn Barnes (4 / 5)
The Inheritance Games Series is a NYT best seller, and for good reason. If you like puzzles, high stakes drama, secrets and uncovering them – then this book is for you. I really enjoyed the subplot of romance as well. I read the first 2 so quickly – it was really fast paced and I got through them in a few days. Again, I haven’t read the third one yet so let me know in the comments if I should continue!
“OVER 5 MILLION COPIES SOLD OF THE #1 BESTSELLING SERIES!“
Avery, an ordinary teenager, unexpectedly inherits billionaire Tobias Hawthorne’s fortune, displacing his family. To claim it, she must solve cryptic puzzles and navigate dangerous secrets alongside his resentful grandsons, uncovering shocking truths
Tomorrow, & Tomorrow, & Tomorrow – Gabrielle Zevin (5 / 5)
Tomorrow, & Tomorrow, & Tomorrow is such a beautiful book about romance and friendship. It’s so emotional and thought provoking. Even though the plot isn’t something I normally go for, it’s so well written. I really enjoyed it. It might be one of the best books I’ve ever read. It is really, really long but at the same time, didn’t feel long enough. I felt like I read 4 different plots in one book. I actually finished it in 2 days and then turned it back over and read it again immediately. I think I enjoyed it even more the 2nd time. Definitely highly recommend this one.
“One of the New York Times’s 100 Best Books of the 21st Century • One of the Best Books of the Year: The New York Times, Entertainment Weekly, TIME, GoodReads, Oprah Daily“
Sam and Sadie, childhood friends turned creative partners, build a groundbreaking video game empire over decades. Their relationship – marked by love, betrayal, and ambition – explores creativity, connection, and the complexities of friendship in a world shaped by technology and art.
Good Material – Dolly Alderton (3 / 5)
Good Material is one of those books that I really, really wanted to love. It’s a New York Times bestseller and was actually recommended to me by my publisher but I just couldn’t get into it. It’s a journey of self discovery and building yourself back up, which I was hoping would be right up my alley. It’s a bit unhinged, which is good and bad – but I felt like I was getting frustrated just reading his mistakes again and again. If you’re going through a tough break up it might be refreshing to read from a male perspective, but it was just a bit slow for me even though the writing was nice.
“NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • ONE OF THE NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW’S 10 BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR • A TODAY SHOW #ReadWithJenna BOOK CLUB PICK • From the best-selling author of Ghosts and Everything I Know About Love: a story of heartbreak and friendship and how to survive both“
Andy, a struggling comedian, faces heartbreak when his long term relationship unexpectedly ends. As he navigates the pain, he reflects on love, life, his career, uncovering insights about himself, and what truly matters.
Yellowface – R.F. Kuang (4.5 / 5)
Speaking of unhinged – oh my goodness, Yellowface was so fun to read. I recommend it to every single person. It is full of dark humor and had me gasping every few minutes. I read this on a plane and kept having to flip it over on the tray table to process what was happening. Highly, highly recommend – it’s just a great book to read overall, and the writing is amazing.
“INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • A REESE’S BOOK CLUB PICK“
A struggling writer seizes her deceased friend’s unpublished manuscript, passing it off as her own. As the novel gains acclaim, she grapples with guilt, cultural appropriation, and the fear of exposure – leading to a tense exploration of identity and ethics.
