27 best new books 2024, from historical fiction to romance novels

Whether your summer is shaping up to be slow weekends at in the city, road trips to the coast or a beach holiday abroad, one thing for sure is that a page-turning tome (or two) is a must-have in your packing list.

The balmier months between May and September offer ample chance to dive into a new book. From easy-breezy sun lounger reads and immersive historical epics to novels that transport you to warmer climes even if you’re not jetting to one yourself, the criteria for a good summer book is simple: you won’t want to put it down.

Luckily, the releases (so far) for 2024 leave you spoiled for choice. From history novels to Booker Prize-winning thrillers and laugh-out-loud tomes, the mix is as eclectic as ever.

This year’s reading pile sees plenty of acclaimed debuts from the likes of Madeleine Grey, Roxy Dunn and Lottie Hazell, as well as eagerly anticipated titles from acclaimed authors such as Coco Mellors, David Nichols, Kiley Reid, Andrew O’Hagan and Katherine Min. Plus, the paperback releases of 2023 are equally worth diving into (and not just to save you hand luggage space)– think Yellowface, In Memoriam and The Bee Sting.

The varied authorship is reflected in the diverse themes addressed, ranging from an Irish family in turmoil and love in the trenches of the First World War to grieving sisters, slavery in the Caribbean, and dating across the political spectrum.

How we tested

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We’ve read dozens of new releases over the last year, including both hardbacks and paperbacks. This list includes the best original page-turners with superb quality prose and the most captivating stories that stayed with us after we’d reached the end. From books for history lovers to romance novels, witty romantic comedies and acclaimed prize-winners, there’s something for every type of reader.

The best new books to read in 2024 are: