Welcome back to our new and improved Litty Committee, PEDESTRIAN.TV’s book club where we curate, recommend and review the best books of 2024 (so far).
We’re almost a third of the way into the year, how are we feeling about those reading New Year’s resolutions? This month is a big one for readers who love to have their hearts ripped out, with new releases dropping from David Nicholls (yes, the man who ripped your heart out with One Day) and André Aciman of Call Me By Your Name fame.
Lachy and I (Soaliha) have made it our mission to hunt down a wide array of genres for you because a diverse reading library is CRUCIAL in 2024.
From poetry, sci-fi, contemporary fiction and beach reads, we’re updating a list of the best books of 2024 for you — and with some great reads to celebrate Mardi Gras with, too. In our opinion, anyway.
Prepare thy tote bags and happy reading.
Best New Books April 2024
The Work by Bri Lee (Romance, Fiction)
Lachy’s Pick: The Work by Bri Lee unveils a magnetic tale of love, art, and ambition. Lally, an impassioned Manhattan gallery owner, collides with Pat, a scholarship-driven hopeful in Sydney’s antiquities scene. Their instant chemistry sets the stage for a complex, transcontinental relationship.
Lee crafts a dazzling exploration of life’s intersections — art and commerce, intimacy and distance, talent and entitlement. The Work is a funny, unforgettable journey into modern love, passion, politics, and power, marking Bri Lee as a brilliant voice in Australian fiction.
Review: From the very first chapter, I was simply hooked. It’s a beautiful concoction of art, intimacy and feminine power. Bri Lee provides an education on the realities of the art world I didn’t know I needed. Lally and Pat’s character development is so prominent from the beginning, making each chapter digestible even if we’re flicking from each of their perspectives. The intimacy is raw, real and sometimes left me a little flustered! Following both of their lives was exciting. I couldn’t put it down so I’m urging you to pick this one up.
The Work will hit bookstores April 3.
Song of the Six Realms by Judy I. Lin (Fantasy, Romance)
Soaliha’s pick: Song of the Six Realms follows Xue, an indentured servant and talented qín player who finds her life turned upside down after her uncle — her only family — is killed by bandits. Soon after, the mysterious and earnest Duke Meng seeks out her services, but after they are attacked by a magical beast, it’s clear he is not what he seems. Before long, Xue becomes entangled in his world of mythical beings and gods, and she not only has to save her own life, but the world, too.
Review: Song of the Six Realms is beautifully written, almost lyrical, which is fitting given it’s really about the transformative power of music. It’s not often I find fantasy books that are so polished (the Sheinifcation of romantasy is certainly to blame for that), so it truly was a refreshing read.
However, for those who don’t love intense world building, be warned: at times I struggled to keep up with all the mythology required to understand the happenings of this book. In that way, it’s a bit of a heavy lift. In terms of its plot, I was hooked from the beginning, but admittedly, felt a little disappointed by its ending. I felt that the main thesis of the novel ended up being abandoned. Still, it was so wonderfully written, and the characters so intricate, that I forgive it. 4/5 stars.
Song of the Six Realms will hit shelves on April 23.
The Gentleman From Peru by André Aciman (Fiction)
Lachy’s Pick: Author of the cult classic Call Me By Your Name is back. André Aciman is delivering us his ninth novel, The Gentleman From Peru, and consider me sat!
Its premise follows a group of college friends who find themselves stranded at a luxurious hotel on Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Whilst they spend their days in the sun, they’re intrigued by a mysterious white-bearded stranger who frequents the veranda, unaware of the profound impact he will have on one of them. As the stranger shares his enigmatic story, the novel explores themes of longing, destiny, and profound love. Atmospheric and evocative, The Gentleman From Peru immerses readers in a world of introspection and revelation, offering a captivating journey through the complexities of human connection and the search for meaning.
I’m hoping this lives up to the hype of CMBYN and gives me the time back I spent reading Find Me (lol).
Review: Update on the above ^ it didn’t. Aciman’s writing continues to be noteworthy in The Gentleman From Peru with his ability to place readers into each scene much like most of his novels. The first half of the novel felt like a slight ramble intertwining various story-lines. In the second half, we hit the main synopsis of the novel, expectedly. We follow a time travel-esque journey between two characters – something I’ve not read much of leaving the twist quite endearing.
I was slightly underwhelmed and gave it 3 stars on Goodreads where I also learned that it was released in 2020 as an audio book?? Given the success of Call Me By Your Name, Aciman kept this one short and sweet, however, I personally don’t think this lived up to its success. I was praying for another LGBTQIA+ storyline but was disappointed. In all honesty, I wasn’t too sure what to expect but it could be a contender for those looking for an easy read or lovers of Aciman’s works
The Gentleman From Peru will hit shelves on April 2.
You Are Here by David Nicholls (Romance, Fiction)
Soaliha’s pick: If you were wilfully victimised by David Nicholls’ absolutely heart-wrenching novel One Day (which was recently adapted into a Netflix film that truly broke people’s souls), then I’m sure you’ll want to read his latest release, You Are Here.
The story follows Marnie, a woman who feels stuck, like life is passing her by, and Michael, a depressed man who is still reeling from his wife leaving him. After a series of events, and a persistent friend, brings the two together, Marnie and Michael go on a life-changing walk together.
You Are Here releases on April 30, but get in quick because I have a feeling this one will sell out.
Wrong Answers Only by Tobias Madden (LGBTQIA+, Fiction)
Lachy’s Pick: Tobias Madden is back with his new novel Wrong Answers Only. The life of our protagonist Marco takes an unexpected turn when he’s sent to live on a Mediterranean cruise with his estranged uncle. Despite hoping for answers about himself and his family, Marco finds himself lost in a sea of questions.
When his best friend CeCe suggests breaking away from his pattern of always doing the right thing, Marco embarks on a journey of self-discovery, starting with a forbidden romance onboard the Ocean Melody. This is the drama I wanted from the nine-month cruise. This story explores the liberating power of embracing the unexpected and challenging societal norms.
Wrong Answers Only will hit the shelves from April 3. And if you’re not familiar with Madden’s previous works, I suggest you do your homework!
Deep Water by James Bradley (Science, Non Fiction)
Soaliha’s pick: The ocean is a beautiful, mysterious, and — at least, for me — a downright terrifying place. And yet, in a time of intense climate change and the acceleration of global warming, it’s more important now, than ever, that we understand it.
James Bradley takes us on a deep-dive into the wonders of the ocean, how it not only sustains but shapes life on Earth, and how it connects all living beings.
The book, full of myth-busting, mysterious, and heartbreaking revelations, is an ode to the ocean, and a call to action for those of us still around to protect it.
Deep Water will release on April 3rd.
The Last Murder at the End of the World by Stuart Turton (Mystery, Thriller)
Soaliha’s pick: From the author of The Seven Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle comes another genre-bending, high concept murder mystery for you to sink your teeth in on a foggy autumn night.
In The Last Murder at the End of the World, the world was destroyed by a killer fog — only one island remains, safe behind a security system, with 122 villagers and 3 scientists who live in blissful harmony. However, one morning the villagers wake up to find one of their beloved scientists is dead — murdered — and the act has triggered the removal of the security system. The people only have 107 hours to solve the murder and save their island before the fog rolls in — but someone has wiped their memories of the events last night. So, one of them is a murderer — and doesn’t even know it.
The Last Murder at the End of the World releases on April 3.
The Book of Roads and Kingdoms (History, Non Fiction)
Soaliha’s pick: Conversations’ Richard Fidler was surprised to read the travelling accounts of Ibn Fadlan — a 10th century Arab diplomat — and find that he had a remarkably modern voice, “like that of a twenty-first century time-traveller dropped into a medieval wilderness”.
As a Muslim woman myself, I know this actually isn’t surprising at all. In the Islamic Golden Age, the pursuit of knowledge was paramount — as encouraged by the Prophet (peace be upon him) — so if you read some of the writings and poetry of Muslims at the time, you’ll find them strikingly scientific and thoughtful.
The Book of Roads and Kingdoms dives into such accounts, and follows the travels of diplomats from imperial Baghdad to all around the world. You’ll learn what made the empire beautiful and, ultimately, what led to its downfall.
The Book of Roads and Kingdoms hits shelves on April 3.
Funny Story by Emily Henry (Romance, Fiction)
Lachy’s Pick: Strap in #booktok fiends, Emily Henry isn’t finished with us yet. Funny Story follows Daphne who finds herself stranded in a small town, after her fiancé confesses his love for his childhood best friend Petra. With a dream job but limited funds, Daphne reluctantly becomes roommates with Petra’s ex, Miles — a scruffy, heartbreak-prone contrast to her practical nature.
As they navigate their newfound friendship and concoct a plan involving misleading photos, Daphne questions if she’s ready to open her heart to unexpected love in this shimmering tale of opposites and second chances.
Funny Story will be in bookstores from April 23.
This Is Why You Dream by Rahul Jandial (Science, Non Fiction)
Lachy’s Pick: One for my divas who love to analyse and understand their dreams! This Is Why You Dream by Rahul Jandial, MD, PhD. delves into the subconscious realm of dreaming, unveiling its ancient significance and modern applications. Exploring the multifaceted roles of dreams, from emotional regulation to memory processing, creativity, and health forecasting, Jandial reveals how understanding dreams can enhance our waking lives.
Drawing from cutting-edge research, he offers insights on harnessing lucid dreaming for skill development, transforming nightmares and deciphering desires. This insightful exploration illuminates the profound impact of dreams on our psychological wellbeing and cognitive potential.
One thing about me is I used to want to be a neurosurgeon and well… here I am writing about books but I gobble up anything about the brain where I can!
This Is Why You Dream will be available from April 23.
Best New books March 2024
Who’s Afraid of Gender? by Judith Butler (Non Fiction)
Soaliha’s pick: From the iconic author of Gender Trouble — which pretty much redefined how we approach (and potentially even express!) gender and sexuality — Who’s Afraid of Gender? tackles the right-wing hysteria around gender and the resulting devolving of rights of queer people in because of it.
Right wing, conservative circles have developed an intense and violent anxiety about the power of gender diversity, which they feel threatens their power and way of life. From TERFS to authoritarian, fascist leaders, it seems everyone is talking about gender for all the wrong reasons. How did we get here?
At a time where we are seeing rapidly escalating attack on trans people, drag queens, and really anyone that questions cisnormativity, this book could not come soon enough. It’s essential Pride reading, and possibly one of the most important books to come out in 2024.
Who’s Afraid of Gender? hits shelves on March 19, 2024.
We Are Together Because by Kerry Andrew (Science Fiction)
Lachy’s pick: We Are Together Because by Kerry Andrew is a gorgeous blend of sci-fi and a domestic drama. It’s The Last of Us meets Leave The World Behind, in a tumultuous wave of suspense and apocalyptic tension.
Our sibling protagonists navigate the complexities of their unconventional family while holidaying at their father’s French home. Amidst simmering tensions and suppressed desires, we follow them grapple with their identities and relationships. As strange phenomena unsettle the land and mysterious events begin to occur, the siblings must confront not only their inner turmoil but also a looming threat that could upend their world.
I’m a HUGE sci-fi nerd so this is definitely right up my alley. We Are Together Because is set to hit shelves on March 12, 2024.
A Fate Inked In Blood by Danielle L. Jensen (Fantasy Romance)
Soaliha’s pick: Calling all BookTok lovers: this is THE romantasy novel of 2024, and I don’t make that claim lightly.
A Fate Inked In Blood is a fantasy novel inspired by Norse mythology. It follows Freya, a 20-year-old woman who dreams of becoming a respectable warrior, but is instead married off to a cruel, abusive fisherman. When he betrays her deepest secret — that she is a child of the gods — to their power-hungry king, a battle over which kingdom can possess her throws her world into chaos. And the only person who sees her for who she is, is forbidden to her.
Review: I have read a lot of romantasy books in my time, especially with their popularisation on TikTok in recent years, and admittedly most of them are not very well-written, even though they’re a fun time. This is largely due to the publishing industry’s over-reliance on tropes as a marketing trend, and a lack of rigorous editing (sorry Fourth Wing, I’m looking at you).
However, I can confidently say that A Fate Inked In Blood is not one of those books. Sharply written, gripping from the get-go, and with genuinely high stakes (and toe-curling sexual tension to match!), this deserves to be at the top of your TBR pile. I devoured it in days and it’s become one of my favourite books of 2024 — and I suspect it’s about to get really big on BookTok. 5-stars!
A Fate Inked In Blood will be available for purchase on March 5, 2024.
Beautiful Chaos by Jessica Urlichs (Poetry)
Lachy’s pick: I’m in my poetry era this year and respectfully, you’re coming along for the journey. Jessica Urlichs’ Beautiful Chaos is a collection of raw, honest poems about motherhood, following the journey from pregnancy to children becoming school-aged. The collection is a reminder that becoming/being a mother is extraordinary — amongst the highs, lows and the brutal but beautiful ways children hold mirrors up to mums everywhere.
Review: Reading this collection reminded me of my sister and her unconditional bond with my nephew. As the fun uncle, I get to see the highs but I also learn about the lows. Her strength cannot be faulted over the last two years, it’s been incredible to witness. I’m constantly reminded that raising a little one can be tough but it’s a bond that can never be broken. To my sister, I love and respect you as a mother more than I can place into words.
Beautiful Chaos will be available from March 5, 2024. P.S would be a great one for Mother’s Day coming up in May.
Go Lightly by Brydie Lee-Kennedy
Soaliha’s pick: This one’s for the bisexual Gen Z girlies with a serious case of main character syndrome. If you’re looking to increase your repertoire of books about LGBTQIA+ characters, add this to your Pride reading list.
Ada is an agent of chaos whose answer to most questions is “yes”. Very much a believer in living for the story, she’s always down for a wild night or a reckless decision, because it’s worth the fun story it will be the next day — when when the decisions in question maybe aren’t one’s she would make for herself. So when she develops a crush on both Sadie and Stuart at the same time, she thinks it’ll be funny to pursue them both.
However, these decisions quickly catch up with her, and force her to consider: who is she really, behind this main character venneer?
Go Lightly hits shelves on March 12, 2024.
Thanks for Having Me by Emma Darragh (Fiction)
Lachy’s pick: At first glance, I thought the title was a polite goodbye after a dinner party. I was wrong. Emma Darragh’s debut novel Thanks For Having Me is a raw and funny exploration of family ties, showing us the messy, unfiltered reality of what we give and take from those closest to us.
We dive into the lives of three generations of women from the same family as they navigate the ups and downs of girlhood, motherhood, and self-discovery. When Mary Anne walks out on her family in Wollongong (wait, Wollongong in a novel?! Fun and fresh) it leaves her daughter Vivian grappling with her own search for meaning, while Vivian’s struggles as an adult in marriage and motherhood echo down to her daughter Evie.
I’m strapping in for this one! It’s next on my TBR pile. Thanks For Having Me will be available from Feb 27, 2024.
Butter by Asako Yuzuku (Fiction, Crime)
Soaliha’s pick: This thrilling Japanese bestseller written by multiple award-winning author Asako Yuzuku is finally getting an English-translation release after huge acclaim.
Gourmet cook Manako Kajii has been imprisoned after being convicted for the serial murders of lonely businessmen, who she seduced with her home cooking. Despite the press’ desperation for an interview, Kajii refuses to speak to anyone — until she gets a letter from lonely journalist Rika Machida, who writes to her asking for her beef stew recipe. As the two become closer, something awakens in Rika — and she learns they relate more than she thought.
This book has been lauded as “shocking”, “unsettling” and deliciously “uncomfortable”. Its strikingly erotic descriptions of food almost remind me of the cooking scenes in Hannibal — but with a distinctive feminist overtone.
Butter‘s English-translation paperback will hit shelves on March 6, 2024.
The House of Hidden Meanings by RuPaul (Memoir, Non Fiction)
Lachy’s pick: This is it, this is the one the Drag Race fans have been waiting for. In his new memoir, The House of Hidden Meanings, RuPaul delivers us the inside scoop on his life journey so far. Being a fan of his work, I didn’t know too much about where it all began. This was an education I was sat for.
Word-for-word, RuPaul gives us the mannerisms and language we’d expect from him in person as The House of Hidden Meanings shares RuPaul’s philosophical thoughts and ideas. It was like having a breakdown in the werkroom while he’s standing right there telling me to get out of my head. As expected, we get the raw and unfiltered version behind the glitz and glamour during his rise to stardom.
The House of Hidden Meanings will be available from March 6, 2024. This is a crucial Pride Month purchase! I don’t make the rules.
The Mystery Writer by Sulari Gentill (Thriller)
Soaliha’s pick: Novels about murderous authors seem to be a growing genre, which pleases me because I absolutely froth stories about the vicious nature of the publishing industry.
In this literary thriller, Theo Benton abandons her career in law and instead decides to finally finish her novel. But when her mentor, a highly successful author, is murdered, her world turns upside down. Suddenly, her brother is a suspect and Theo must protect him — so she decides to solve her mentor’s murder and find the culprit. But the thread of deception keeping the killer safe is unravelling, and the truth will come out — unless Theo and everyone around her is taken out first.
Honestly, I love conspiracy theories and never tire of the line “it goes all the way to the top!”, so this is one I’m keen for.
The Mystery Writer releases on March 6.
Pelican Girls by Julia Malye (Historical Fiction)
Lachy’s pick: Described as “a historical feminist epic, for readers of Barbara Kingsolver, The Matrix by Lauren Groff and The Book of Goose by Yiyun Li“, Pelican Girls by Julia Mayle delivers a beautiful take on female friendship and survival.
Halfway around the world, in America, French settlers are in want of wives. At the La Salpetriere asylum, a list is drawn up and eighty-eight women of childbearing age are to be shipped to New Orleans. Among them are our three protagonists; Charlotte, Genevieve and Petronille – a brusque orphan, an accused abortionist and a rumoured madwoman.
We follow their journey across the ocean and the unknown that follows, the harsh or extraordinary. Love and betrayal will unfold in their new wild and beautiful land.
Pelican Girls will hit bookstores from March 5, 2024.
Best New Books February 2024
In Bad Faith by Dassi Erlich (Memoir, Non Fiction)
Lachy’s Pick: In Bad Faith by Dassi Erlich is a poignant memoir detailing her life in a closed ultra-Orthodox sect. Enduring a harsh upbringing, Erlich becomes the target of a predatory teacher. This honest and harrowing journey sheds light on Erlich’s fight for justice against a secretive community.
Erlich’s story unveils her struggles with the oppressive environment and the fight for her own identity. In Bad Faith is one of the most-talked about memoirs of the year (so far) so it’s earned a spot on top of my TBR pile.
Content warning: This book discusses sexual abuse.
In Bad Faith will be in bookstores from January 31, 2024.
Under The Tamarind Tree by Nigar Alam (Drama, Mystery, Fiction)
Soaliha’s pick: 1964. 2019. Under The Tamarind Tree is told in two timelines, both in the perspective of Rozeena. In the 1960s, Rozeena and her family have fled to Pakistan post-Partition and are coping with the grief and trauma of their journey. She and her friends, in their early 20s, are trying to start their new lives — when a friend dies at a party they all attended, and things change forever.
In 2019, Rozeena is looking after a friends’ granddaughter, and in turn developing a friendship with her. But the past is starting to unravel — and the truth coming to light could destroy everything she’s worked so hard to protect.
With themes of intergenerational trauma and fractured families, this novel is one I know will hurt. But, you know, in a good way.
Under The Tamarind Tree hits shelves on February 1, 2024.
Everything is Perfect by Maxine Fawcett (Romance, Fiction)
Lachy’s Pick: In Maxine Fawcett‘s Everything is Perfect, we delve into the meticulously curated life of our protagonist — Cassandra Prince. Perched on the edge of her forties, Cassie resides in a blissful beachside haven with her accomplished husband Jon and their two children. From the outside, her life appears flawless, but within, Cassie grapples with the ennui of midlife.
As she confronts the strains of ageing, a stagnant marriage, and the demands of motherhood, a chance encounter with Chris Lancaster, a charismatic widowed father-of-five, unravels a cascade of daydreams about a captivating and uncertain future.
Review: This one definitely surprised me. At first glance, I was expecting the classic ‘house-wife seeking a new adventure and hot sex’ and don’t get me wrong — it is that — but it’s also something more. Our protagonist is mother-dearest Cassie, who swans through life and constantly fights battles within her own mind. As the story develops, you see Cassie’s behaviour change drastically — to the extent where I was thinking “surely fkn not”. One of the key themes of this novel addresses the fact that suppressing our past, it will eventually catch up to us in the present/future. In some parts, the story did lack depth but that’s me being a harsh critic. It’s an easy to digest storyline which I devoured in a day.
Everything is Perfect is set to hit the shelves on February 6.
The Book of Love by Kelly Link (Fantasy, Fiction, Romance)
Soaliha’s pick: Praised by the likes of Holly Black and Leigh Bardugo, The Book of Love has been described as “gorgeous”, “weird” and “heartbreaking”. A combination of traits that I know means when I read this book, it will destroy me.
The story follows teenagers Laura, Daniel and Mo who disappeared a year ago and were presumed dead — only to suddenly reappear in their high school with no knowledge of what happened to them. After striking a deal with their music teacher (who revived them?), the teens are allowed to stay in this existence while they complete magical side quests — and solve their murder. And then, only two will be allowed to stay.
From what I can tell, this is the type of story that builds you up and then rips your heart out. Given that I am a huge fan of Leigh Bardugo, this is next on my reading list.
Book of Love will be available on February 6, 2024.
Everyone Who Can Forgive Me is Dead by Jenny Hollander (Thriller, Mystery)
Lachy’s Pick: Jenny Hollander‘s debut thriller Everyone Who Can Forgive Me Is Dead explores the complexities of escape, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of a future that refuses to be shackled by a haunting past.
We are thrust into the world of Charlie Colbert, a woman haunted by the traumatic events of the “Scarlet Christmas” at her prestigious journalism school. Having spent the last decade meticulously rebuilding her life, Charlie is now a successful magazine editor engaged to a publishing industry powerhouse. However, when a film adaptation of the event comes to light, threatening to unravel her carefully crafted facade, Charlie faces her moment of reckoning.
Everyone Who Can Forgive Me is Dead will hit the shelves on February 13, 2024.
The Briar Book of the Dead by A.G. Slatter (Fantasy, Thriller)
Soaliha’s pick: I am quite partial to a witchy thriller, and The Briar Book of the Dead is certainly that. The novel follows Ellie Briar, the only non-witch in her family of Briar Witches. When the family matriarch dies unexpectedly, she and her cousins must take up the mantle of the family’s “benevolent dictatorship” of the town of Silverton. At the same time, Ellie discovers a new power she didn’t know she had — she can talk to ghosts — and with it comes an unravelling of dark family secrets that could doom them all. Oh, and she also solves a bunch of murders. Fun!
Review: This book is, in many ways, a domestic thriller — which was pretty unexpected but I really enjoyed it. Despite the spooky happenings in the background (which honestly could have had a bit more limelight), we are largely focused on Ellie’s inner-musings, ghostly side quests and her turbulent relationship with her witchy family. While at times the earlier elements of the novel can feel a bit slow, they’re never boring, and things pick up around the halfway-mark to a frantic finale that more than pays off. The book is clever, dark and beautifully written, and Ellie is a wry and often hilarious protagonist. Everytime I picked it up, I struggled to put it down and actually get some work done. Highly recommend!
The Briar Book of the Dead will be available for purchase on February 13, 2024.
Always Will Be by Mykaela Saunders (Speculative Fiction)
Soaliha’s pick: At a time post-referendum and during the destruction of Gaza, conversations around what self-determination and decolonisation actually mean for Indigenous people are more important than ever. Koori/Goori and Lebanese writer Mykaela Saunders seeks to open up that conversation, in this collection of speculative fiction short stories on what a sovereign future could look like for First Nations people.
Review: Equal parts cynical and optimistic, this novel has completely changed the way I think about the future and made me re-evaluate what exactly we mean when we talk about the world “ending”. During a time of climate chaos and fraught politics, it distills a sense of hope in the ability we as humans have to turn this ship around — and I think it’s one of those book that everyone should read, regardless of background. Definitely add it to your “must read” list of 2024 — I suspect this might end up being one of my best reads of the year.
Always Will Be releases on February 27, 2024.
Good With Money by Emma Edwards (Personal Finance, Non Fiction)
Lachy’s Pick: Ever woken up after a night out and cringed at your banking app? Placed an order for that random Amazon item at 3am? Felt helpless and overwhelmed when trying to stick to a new budget? (I’ve officially been seen). Emma Edwards is here with Good With Money, the guide that delves into the psychology behind spending habits, providing practical insights on managing finances while still enjoying life’s pleasures
Edwards is a financial behaviour expert and guides us through the process of reclaiming decision-making power, examining beliefs, identity, and habits to emerge with a newfound sense of being Good With Money.
Given the current economic climate, I will be adding this to my TBR pile. Stay tuned for any success on my end!
Good With Money will be available to purchase February 27.
Joy Moody Is Out Of Time by Kerryn Mayne (Fiction, Mystery)
Soaliha’s pick: Joy Moody is the mother of twin girls. Since as far as they can remember, Joy has been telling her daughters that they are from the future, and that when they turn 21, they will travel back to where they came from — the year 2050. The story is meant to explain how they came into her care — but it turns out, it’s actually a long and dark deception. And then, on their 21st birthday, Joy is found dead.
This novel has been described as a “quirky” and “unpredictable” (read: completely bonkers) whodunnit murder mystery, which is one of my favourite genres of all time. However, it’s also an exploration of suburban motherhood — and how far you’ll go to keep your kids “safe”.
Joy Moody Is Out Of Time will release on February 27.
Chloé by Katrina Kell (Contemporary Fiction)
Lachy’s Pick: Chloé by Katrina Kell unveils the gripping tale of a courageous young woman who served as the muse for one of Australia’s most renowned paintings. Set against the backdrop of Victoria’s shipwreck coast, revolutionary Parisian art studios, and the harrowing battlefields of Flanders, this novel reimagines the tumultuous history of the mysterious woman immortalised in Jules Lefebvre‘s iconic 1875 painting, Chloé.
Locked in Melbourne’s Young & Jackson Hotel since 1909, the novel passionately unravels the enigma behind the canvas, exploring the life of Marie, a luminous spirit who defied societal norms and left an enduring impact across time and space.
Chloé will be available to pick up from February 27.
Best New Books January 2024
The Atlas Complex by Olivie Blake (Fantasy)
Soaliha’s pick: I have never read anything quite like The Atlas Six — its conversations of philosophy, handling of metaphysics and razor sharp wit left me wondering if I’d just read the cleverest fantasy book, well, ever. Olivie Blake is a force to be reckoned with, and her cast are some of the most complicated, nuanced and well-written people I’ve read. If you’ve read any of my other reviews, you know I’m an absolute sucker for intricate, thorny characters, so it’s no surprise that I’ve started collecting all of Blake’s other books for holiday reading.
The Atlas Complex — the final installment of the Atlas trilogy — sees the characters who were recruited to the Alexandrian society reckon with the debt they owe the library, the ethical conundrums that come with their own ever-increasing powers, and who they’ll have to betray to keep those powers.
I’m currently devouring a review copy of this novel and can confirm, it’s going to be one of the best books of 2024. It has has everything #BookTok loved about the first two books: wit, drama, tension, power. And, for those who are already fans, the first chapter opens with Atlas’ backstory. I know we’re all dying to know who this man really is, and how he became the mastermind behind the end of the world.
The Altas Complex will arrive on shelves January 9, 2024.
Love, Just In by Natalie Murray (Romance, Fiction)
Lachy’s Pick: Emily Henry lovers, brace yourself for here is your next Summer read. Natalie Murray‘s Love, Just In follows Sydney journalist Josie Larsen, almost 30 and trying to figure it all out. An assignment sends Josie to Newcastle (we love a bit of Newy) where she reunites with an old friend. It’s giving 13 Going on 30 but make it Aussie!
Review: I wasn’t sure what to expect at first. I’d gotten four chapters in and placed it face-down for a few days until I decided it deserved a second chance. I’m usually not a fan of the back and forth storyline/character development but Murray does it in a way that’s both endearing and playful in a sense for the reader. It’s a crucial element of Love, Just In as we join Josie and Zac on their journey having grown up together. THEN it gets really horny, quite quickly to which we love. However, the premise of the novel lies deeper with discussions around grieving loss and health anxiety. It’s a homegrown romance and one I’ll be recommending throughout the remainder of the Summer for my girls and gays to endure by the beach or in the park.
Love, Just In will arrive on shelves January 3, 2024.
Rabbit Hole by Kate Brody (Mystery, Thriller)
Soaliha’s pick: Mystery is my second favourite genre of books (the first is fantasy, obvs), but I have a complicated relationship with it because I don’t like the way true crime can become such a spectacle. It’s no surprise then that Rabbit Hole, a thriller novel about a disturbing Reddit true crime community, is on my list of 2024 books to read in January.
The story follows Teddy, whose sister Angie vanished 10 years ago, her disappearance still unsolved. In the aftermath of the suicide of their father, Teddy — now an English teacher — discovers a Reddit community obsessed with Angie’s disappearance. Unable to tear herself away, she becomes bewitched by the community, and one user in particular. Will this community help her find the answers that she seeks? Or will it destroy her?
Rabbit Hole releases on January 16, 2024.
The Festishist by Katherine Min (Literary Fiction)
About the book:
Lachy’s Pick: In Katherine Min‘s The Fetishist, a grieving daughter seeks revenge against the man responsible for her mother’s death, triggering a chain of unforeseen reckonings. Tea.
We follow Kyoko, a Japanese American punk-rock singer consumed by rage and grief; Daniel, a philandering violinist confronting his past; and Alma, a Korean American cello prodigy with a lot of questions as she nears the end of her life. The story exuberantly explores themes of race, complicity, visibility and femininity.
Despite Min’s untimely death in 2019, her novel remains a source of wisdom and power, solidifying her legacy as a writer with a distinctive voice of our times. This is one I’m super keen to pick up.
The Fetishist will hit shelves on January 9, 2024.
The Invocations by Krystal Sutherland (Fantasy, Mystery, Thriller)
Soaliha’s pick: The Invocations is at the top of my 2024 reading list because of its themes, which a gal like me simply cannot resist. Witches? A serial killer/murder mystery? The dark underbelly of London? Queer female rage? What more could I ask for in an urban fantasy?
This twisty novel follows three women: Zara, who is willing to do whatever it takes to bring back her dead sister (even if that means partaking in the occult); Jude, whose soul has become necrotic after a disastrous deal with a demon; and Emer, who has the solutions to Zara and Jude’s problems, but a dark past of her own — and the bodies are piling up.
Review: I devoured The Invocations quicker than its demons devour untethered human souls. This bloody, gruesome murder mystery romp is such a great time, but what really makes it special is that it also has so much to say. Despite being filled with creepy possessions, necrotic flesh and gory bloodlust, the most terrifying parts do not involve demons at all — for it is men that are the true threat in this novel. Feminist, bold, and yet tender and compassionate, this is one of my favourite reads of the year.
The Invocations releases on January 30, 2024.
Just Friends by Gyan Yankovich, (Non-Fiction)
Lachy’s Pick: When was the last time you thought hard about just how much you love your friends? Gyan Yankovich‘s Just Friends is here to remind you why we should be doing so. Described as an ‘ode to the people who shape us’ and ‘a book to press into the hands of the friends you love the most’. Say no more.
Friendships take form in many ways – the workplace (love you Soaliha!), motherhood our neighbourhoods and more. Are we appreciating these people enough? They’ve probably seen us at our worst. I’m ready to learn a thing or two with this one. I confess, I should tell my gorls I love them more.
Just Friends will arrive on shelves January 31, 2024.
Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross (Fantasy Romance)
Soaliha’s pick: Ruthless Vows is the sequel to Divine Rivals (AKA one of the most celebrated fantasy romance novels on #BookTok) and the final installment of the Letters of Enchantment duology.
It follows Iris and Roman, who we first met in Divine Rivals as rival journalists who fell in love through anonymous letters to one another amidst a war between gods. The first book was described as “rich”, “romantic” and “tender”. In Ruthless Vows, the war is far from over, and Iris and Roman have become separated. Roman is missing, with no memory of his past — or Iris. And when he begins writing again, it’s for the enemy.
Ruthless Vows releases on January 3, 2024.
Couple Goals by Nicole Haddow (Personal Finance, Non-Fiction)
Lachy’s Pick: How do you talk about money without killing the romance? Should you discuss what happens if it doesn’t work out? Very valid questions and Nicole Haddow is here to help answer the with Couple Goals (financial goals for couples, not aesthetic IG couples).
This book is a practical and inspiring look at what can be achieve if you’re a united team. I’m (redacted)-years-old and excited to learn more about not only just Nicole’s story but the secrets of success from expert and others. We truly love learning here with Litty Committee.
Couple Goals will arrive on shelves January 10, 2024.
It’s Probably You by Jayne Denker (Romance, Fiction)
Soaliha’s pick: If you’re looking for something easy, sweet and heartwarming to pick up while you’re splayed on a beach towel, then It’s Probably You will be perfect for you.
This summer romcom follows Gillian, who is happily single and done with dating apps following too much body-shaming and general nastiness from men. Instead, she focuses on nurturing her home’s garden. That is, until a handsome, grumpy, brooding (!!!!) man moves in next door. This is, surprisingly, a rivals to lovers story — and with a plus-sized heroine to boot, something we definitely need to see more of in the romance genre.
It’s Probably You releases on January 3, 2024.
The Other Bridget by Rachel Johns (Romance, Fiction)
Lachy’s Pick: The Other Bridget is a charming tale of a librarian, Bridget Jones, named after a famous fictional character (love her), as she navigates her romantic aspirations in Fremantle, Western Australia. Raised on a remote cattle station with her mother’s romance novels as companions, Bridget becomes a self-proclaimed hopeless romantic and the transformative power of books. This is a bit of me. I’m also a book nerd, romantic raised in the sticks. A story for another time, though.
One minute she’s in a book, the next she’s meeting hot barista Fabio, who obviously joins her bookclub — adding that steamy (barista pun) romantic twist. Determined to find the right books to capture their hearts, Bridget enlists the help of friends and library regulars, discovering that while not ALL romances begin with a meet-cute, they can still lead to their happily ever after.
As a hopeless romantic and a huge fan of the genre, I can’t wait to dive into this one!
The Other Bridget will hit shelves January 30, 2024.
Well there ya have it, folks. The best books of 2024 (so far). Watch this space as more books release and we add our reviews!
2024 Book Recommendations Release Schedule
| Title | Author | Release Date | Genre |
| Ruthless Vows | Rebecca Ross | January 3 | Fantasy, Romance |
| It’s Probably You | Jayne Denker | January 3 | Romance |
| Love, Just In | Natalie Murray | January 3 | Romance |
| The Atlas Complex | Olivie Blake | January 9 | Fantasy |
| The Fetishist | Katherine Min | January 9 | Literary Fiction |
| Couple Goals | Nicole Haddow | January 10 | Personal Finance |
| Rabbit Hole | Kate Brody | January 16 | Mystery/Thriller |
| The Invocations | Krystal Sutherland | January 30 | Fantasy |
| The Other Bridget | Rachael Jones | January 30 | Romance |
| Just Friends | Gyan Yankovich | January 31 | Non Fiction |
| In Bad Faith | Dassi Erlich | January 31 | Non Fiction, Memoir |
| Under The Tamarind Tree | Nigar Alam | February 1 | Fiction |
| Everything Is Perfect | Maxine Fawcett | February 6 | Romance |
| The Book of Love | Kelly Link | February 6 | Fantasy |
| Everyone Who Can Forgive Me Is Dead | Jenny Hollander | February 13 | Mystery/Thriller |
| The Briar Book Of The Dead | A.G. Slatter | February 13 | Fantasy, Thriller |
| Always Will Be | Mykaela Saunders | February 27 | Speculative Fiction |
| Good With Money | Emma Edwards | February 27 | Finance |
| Joy Moody Is Out Of Time | Kerryn Mayne | February 27 | Mystery/Thriller |
| Chloé | Katrina Kell | February 27 | Contemporary Fiction |
| Thanks for Having Me | Emma Darragh | February 27 | Fiction |
| A Fate Inked In Blood | Danielle L. Jensen | March 5 | Fantasy Romance |
| Beautiful Chaos | Jessica Urlichs | March 5 | Poetry |
| Pelican Girls Julia Malye | Julia Malye | March 5 | Historical Fiction |
| Butter | Asako Yuzuku | March 6 | Fiction, Crime |
| The House of Hidden Meanings | RuPaul | March 6 | Non Fiction, Memoir |
| The Mystery Writer | Sulari Gentill | March 6 | Mystery/Thriller |
| Go Lightly | Brydie Lee-Kennedy | March 12 | Fiction |
| We Are Together Because | Kerry Andrew | March 12 | Science Fiction |
| Who’s Afraid of Gender? | Judith Butler | March 19 | Non Fiction |
| The Gentleman From Peru | André Aciman | April 2 | Fiction |
| The Work | Bri Lee | April 3 | Romance |
| Wrong Answers Only | Tobias Madden | April 3 | Fiction, LGBTQIA+ |
| Deep Water | James Bradley | April 3 | Non Fiction, Science |
| The Last Murder at the End of the World | Stuart Turton | April 3 | Mystery/Thriller |
| The Book of Roads and Kingdoms | Richard Fidler | April 3 | Non Fiction, History |
| Funny Story | Emily Henry | April 23 | Romance |
| Song of the Six Realms | Judy I. Lin | April 23 | Fantasy, Romance |
| This Is Why You Dream | Rahul Jandial | April 23 | Non Fiction, Science |
| You Are Here | David Nicholls | April 30 | Romance |