Top 5 Favourite Books of 2024 (So Far)
This year has been lacking in 5 star reads, I’ve read many that have come close but few have given me the 5 star feeling. The 5 star feeling for me is how addicted I am when reading it, how emotional I get and how much I think about it afterwards. Lets roll out the red carpet for top 5…
A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry
This book tore my heartstrings out! Mistry masterfully captures the harsh realities of life in 1970s India, while also exploring the resilience of the human spirit. Set against the backdrop of Indira Gandhi's Emergency, a period marked by political turmoil and social unrest, the novel delves deeply into the lives of four central characters who, despite their vastly different backgrounds, come together in unexpected ways. These characters were so well written and fleshed that I felt deeply connected to them. The friendship, struggle and heartbreak that followed these people will stay with me for a long time.
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
This was one of those books where my life revolved around it until it was finished. A historical novel that brings to life the harrowing experiences of 2 sisters during World War II in Nazi-occupied France. With a compelling blend of emotional depth, historical detail, and character-driven storytelling, Hannah crafts a tale that is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Im Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
It can feel wrong to rate someone’s memoir, but if you have read this story I think you will understand why. The way she talks about her tumultuous childhood, the pressure of childhood stardom and complex relationship with her mother were gripping. Her writing is sharp, evocative and the dark humour makes for very attention grabbing writing. If you want a more immersive read I would listen to her audiobook.
The Guncle by Steven Rowley
This was my first book my Rowley and it was delightful, I was laughing and crying along with the characters. It is a heartwarming and witty novel that blends humour and grief in a touching narrative about family, love, and self-discovery. The story follows Patrick O'Hara, a once-famous TV star living a reclusive life in Palm Springs, who is suddenly tasked with caring for his young niece and nephew after the death of their mother and their father's struggle with addiction. The result is a poignant yet comedic exploration of loss, healing, and the unique dynamics of an unconventional family.
A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas
The 3rd instalment of A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) was my favourite of the series by a hair! (Followed closely was A Court of Mist and Fury). I won’t go into detail about the plot because of spoilers, but I loved the high-stakes, Feyre’s character development and the found-family element. As is typical of Maas the last 20% was chaos and it was like watching a movie in my mind, I was there alongside the characters and the out of body experience I got while reading this is the reason it is in my top favourite so far this year.
With 4 months left of the year there is still plenty of time for more to make their way onto the list!
