Best 13 Fiction Books of 2024: Review and Guide

Explore the best fiction books where stories captivate, characters live, and pages turn themselves. Perfect for any reading adventure.
The Midnight Library coverWhere the Crawdads Sing coverThe Night Circus cover

Choosing the best ‘fiction books’ is like being a kid in a candy store, where all the candies are filled with laughter, tears, and a sprinkle of fantasy. We focus on stories that transport us to magical places, characters who become our best friends, and narratives that make our hearts race. Our top picks include tales of self-discovery, mystery, and the beauty of ordinary lives, all sure to captivate both new and seasoned readers. Get ready to embark on a literary adventure that will keep you turning the pages.

On this list:

13 The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

The Midnight Library cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2020
  • Pages: 288

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This book poses thought-provoking questions about choices and regrets. We lost track of time while pondering ‘What if?’ scenarios. Plus, it made us appreciate life more!

12 Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

Where the Crawdads Sing cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Mystery
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2018
  • Pages: 384

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With its vivid descriptions of nature and a compelling murder mystery, this book was a page-turner. We felt like we were right in the marshlands!

11 The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

The Night Circus cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2011
  • Pages: 528

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This magical tale swept us off our feet. The enchanting circus and the intriguing competition had us glued. It’s perfect for a whimsical escape!

10 Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

Little Fires Everywhere cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Drama
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2017
  • Pages: 338

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We found this book’s exploration of complex family dynamics and social issues engaging. It sparked meaningful discussions in our group!

9 Anxious People by Fredrik Backman

Anxious People cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Comedy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2019
  • Pages: 352

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Filled with humor and heart, this book brought laughter and warmth to our reading nook. The quirky characters were our favorite element!

8 The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett

The Vanishing Half cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Historical
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2020
  • Pages: 352

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The book’s exploration of racial identity and family ties intrigued us. Its rich storytelling kept us turning pages late into the night!

7 Educated by Tara Westover

Educated cover

  • Genre: Memoir
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2018
  • Pages: 352

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Tara’s memoir reads like fiction with its incredible narrative. We were inspired by her resilience and courage. A must-read for all!

6 Circe by Madeline Miller

Circe cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Fantasy, Mythology
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2018
  • Pages: 393

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Mythology lovers in our group adored this rendition of Circe’s tale. The prose is lush, and the story captivates from start to finish.

5 Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine cover

  • Genre: Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2017
  • Pages: 327

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With a quirky yet lovable protagonist, this heartwarming story won us over. It’s a perfect reminder that kindness can change lives.

4 The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Adventure
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1988
  • Pages: 208

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This philosophical tale about following dreams inspired our personal journeys. Its universal themes resonate with readers of all ages.

3 Normal People by Sally Rooney

Normal People cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Drama
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2018
  • Pages: 273

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Exploring complex relationships and personal growth, this book was a beautiful rollercoaster for us. It’s relatable and raw in the best ways.

2 Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Daisy Jones & The Six cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Contemporary
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2019
  • Pages: 368

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Told in a unique interview style, it feels like you’re reading about a real band. The nostalgic rock ‘n’ roll vibe hooked us from the start.

1 To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

To Kill a Mockingbird cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Classic
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1960
  • Pages: 324

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Considered one of the greatest fiction books, it’s a classic for a reason. The themes of racial injustice and moral growth are perennially relevant.

0 The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

The Great Gatsby cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Classic
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1925
  • Pages: 180

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We crown this as the best fiction book. This book is a timeless exploration of the American Dream and the era’s opulence. Fitzgerald’s poignant narrative and unforgettable characters like Gatsby and Daisy make this a masterpiece. Its ability to capture the disillusionment and glamour of the 1920s fascinates modern readers. Every re-read reveals new insights into wealth, love, and the pursuit of happiness. Its brevity makes it digestible yet impactful, delivering a profound experience without overwhelming. It’s the quintessential book that merges beauty and tragedy, replete with symbolism and emotion, keeping readers introspective long after turning the last page.

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!