nut free nerd

July! Somehow we are over halfway through 2024 already. There have been lots of ups and downs in my person life this year, but thankfully reading has remained a constant through it all. So far in 2024 I’ve read 40 books. Here are my favorites of the bunch, in the order that I read them.

Whale Fall by Elizabeth O’Connor (Netgalley ARC). I still can’t believe this is a debut novel. It is so carefully crafted, and packs a stunning punch in just over 200 pages. O’Connor trusts the reader to draw conclusions without being directly, overtly led to them. Despite having read this novel in January, I still find myself thinking it about it regularly.

The World According to Joan Didion by Evelyn McDonnell. Fun fact about me: I love Joan Didion. Everything about her is somehow so fascinating, and I know I’m not alone in feeling this way. McDonnell does a great job unpacking this phenomena and diving into Didion’s life and work beneath the “cool girl” persona exuded in photographs of her. If you’re also a fan of Didion, I can’t recommend this one enough.

The Happy Couple by Naoise Dolan. This book is about the breakdown of a marriage before it even begins. The characters felt so real because of their flaws and honesty on the page. And the ending really sealed the deal for me — Dolan doesn’t shy away from harsh reality. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book, and can’t wait to read more of Dolan’s work.

Someone Who Will Love You in All Your Damaged Glory by Raphael Bob-Waksberg. I bought and read this book at the recommendation of one of my best friends, and I’m so glad I did. Despite the slight absurdity of these short stories, they each contained a kernel of human emotion that felt heartfelt and honest and real. Definitely a great book to read after going through a breakup or heartache of any kind.

Dear Dolly by Dolly Alderton. Reading Dolly’s writing feels like a good debrief session after a night out; late night chats at 2 a.m. in the dark; hyping a stranger up in the women’s restroom at a bar when they’re having a tough night; dancing to music while getting ready; hugging your best friend after not seeing them for months. I loved this book. Definitely a must read for fans of Everything I Know About Love.

North Woods by Daniel Mason. This novel follows a house in New England over centuries, up until modern day. The setting feels like the main character. Although I read this book in the spring, I think it would be a perfect read for autumn. It’s a strangely charming blend of darkness and light — specifics of which I don’t want to get into for fear of spoiling the surprises. Just trust me on this one — it’s fantastic.

This Is Happiness by Niall Williams. This book has everything: gorgeous writing, lovable characters, a small town setting, an interesting narrative framework, and a story that made me want to keep turning the pages. I highlighted so many touching, brilliant lines while reading. I’d recommend this to anyone who wants a reminder that life is made up of small moments.

In going back through my Storygraph and making this list, I realized that I’ve actually had a really great reading year so far. My reading has felt a bit random, but I think it’s because I’ve been following what I’m genuinely curious about and in the mood to read in a given moment. I’m excited to see what books the rest of 2024 has in store!

What are some of the best books you’ve read so far in 2024? I’d love to know.

Take care xx