Annual Review: Sara's Favorite Books from 2024
📚 Here's a delightfully unfiltered rundown of some remarkable reads from 2024 that tickled my fancy! Since you're here, I'm guessing you too might be drowning in an ocean of books. So, I'll steer you towards some real gems – the ones that'll make you forget you're vesting your time in a new escape. Brace yourself for a wild ride as I share my favorites! 🤩
When it comes to prolific and fantastic authors, T Kingfisher consistently stands out, and their work A Sorceress Comes to Call is no exception. This entrancing reimagining of The Goose Girl tales an epic turn, making it almost criminal how good it is! I'd almost call it a crime of passion – I'm so enamored with its haunting brilliance. Our heroine, Cordelia, is the daughter of a sorceress ensnared in a web of torment, turning her into a silent, still creature for hours or even days at a time. At last, she encounters safety, friendship, and a chance at freedom when she's thrust into the life of the wealthy squire and his fiercely independent sister, Hester. The captivating bond between the women, combined with Hester's unconventional romance, makes this book an absolute treasure, a must-read for any enchanted soul. 👑✨
Next up, I can't emphasize enough how much Death in the Spires by KJ Charles resonated with me. I've always been a Dark Academia fan, but I often find these stories leave me feeling uneasy. Not so with this magnificent tale! It focuses on the fallout from manipulation and shame, allowing characters to find a sense of justice and overcome adversity. The narrative unfolds at the hallowed halls of Oxford, boasting a fantastic Cymbeline subplot, and even features disability and authentic queer representation – a truly unique Dark Academia delight! 🎓🎭
From my perspective, Alexis Hall is beyond reproach when it comes to writing engaging, insightful stories. I'll devour anything he puts out, even if it strays far from my usual genres. Something Extraordinary is a humorous, human adventure that offers a refreshing take on friendship and love. The story follows two friends, Arabella (an aromantic bisexual woman) and Sir Horely (a gay man), as they race through Regency England to prevent disastrous marriages and wed each other instead. This book is perfect for those craving joy, freedom, and self-empowerment. Just be aware – it's a spirited romp filled with heat, and you can find a content guide here. 🔥💞
Health and wellness can be tricky angles to approach, but Pooja Lakshmin doesn't shy away from the messy complexities in Real Self-Care. Many wellness movements can feel like scams, pretending that systemic injustices don't matter. However, Lakshmin acknowledges both our collective and individual responsibilities. Their book is brimming with actionable advice and smart insights, making it an essential read for those eager to engage in meaningful self-improvement. 🧘♀️💧
If folklore is your thing, allow me to introduce you to The Book of Yōkai: Mysterious Creatures of Japanese Folklore by Michael Dylan Foster. The beautifully illustrated guide is jam-packed with intriguing Yokai lore, making it the perfect starting point for diving into Japanese supernatural tales. Fantastical creatures such as the Kitsune, Tengu, and Oni will captivate your imagination, ensuring you'll be whisked away on an unforgettable journey. 🐺🐱🥊
I'd be remiss not to mention a few more worthy titles that made a lasting impression on me. Cat Sebastian's You Should Be So Lucky offers a refreshing perspective on grief and new love, while Naomi Novik's The Golden Enclaves is an enchanting conclusion to her Trilogy of the Exiles series. Elizabeth Hand's A Haunting on the Hill serves as a mesmerizing homage to Shirley Jackson's gothic mastery, and finally, The Daughters of Block Island by Christa Carmen delivers a smart, eerie spin on sinister family secrets and affairs. 🩸🔪
So, what was your standout favorite read of the year? Share your recommendations in the comments below and let's build an unforgettable literary bonanza! 🎉📖
Now, if you fancy joining us for a riveting discussion on Bitter Medicine by Mia Tsai, don't miss out on our January 27th book club meeting at 7PM ET. To gain access, support our Patreon for $7+. 📚💛
Note: The Carterhaugh School website mentions no specific favorite books from 2024, but it does highlight various book recommendations, such as Vassa in the Night by Sarah Porter, The Thorn Key by Jeana Jorgensen, Thornhedge by T.K. Kingfisher, and works by Cat Sebastian and Olivia Atwater, as well as classic fairy-tale retellings and fiction focused on hope and empowerment.
In the realms of captivating literature, a book that effortlessly blends lifestyles, enchantment, and romance is T Kingfisher's "A Sorceress Comes to Call". Its haunting brilliance and unconventional romance make it an essential read for those seeking an enchanted escape.
For individuals who prefer novels infused with academia and mystery, KJ Charles' "Death in the Spires" offers a captivating blend of Dark Academia, disability, and authentic queer representation, sure to resonate with fans of the genre.
