(Image Credit: Simon & Schuster)
As we navigate through 2024, the world of fiction continues to impress with its diverse stories and voices. This year’s fiction offerings have something for everyone, from heartwarming romances to thought-provoking historical fantasies and deeply personal coming-of-age tales. Here’s a look at our top fiction picks, each bringing a unique flavor to the literary landscape.
Birding with Benefits by Sarah T. Dubb
Sarah T. Dubb’s Birding with Benefits is a delightful foray into contemporary romance. The story follows Celeste, a recently divorced empty-nester ready to embrace a new chapter in her life. In her quest to rediscover joy and adventure, Celeste meets John, a gentle and reflective man passionate about birdwatching. As their relationship unfolds, Celeste is captivated by John’s quirky enthusiasm for birds and begins to see life from a fresh, optimistic perspective. Dubb’s novel is sweet and humorous, capturing the transformative power of love and self-discovery.
You Dreamed of Empires: A Novel by Álvaro Enrigue, translated by Natasha Wimmer
In You Dreamed of Empires, Álvaro Enrigue reimagines the dramatic encounter between Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés and the Aztec emperor Moctezuma in 1519. Through a darkly comedic lens, Enrigue and translator Natasha Wimmer vividly portray this historical clash. The novel focuses on the often-overlooked figures of Aztec princess Atotoxtli and the conquistadors’ translator, Malinalli. Their behind-the-scenes machinations and sharp-witted interactions provide a fresh perspective on this pivotal historical moment, blending historical accuracy with imaginative storytelling.
Swift River by Essie Chambers
Essie Chambers’ debut novel, Swift River, tells the poignant story of Diamond, a teenage girl growing up in a 1980s New England mill town. As the only Black resident in her community, Diamond faces both social isolation and personal challenges, including the loss of her father and a strained relationship with her mother. When Diamond receives a letter from a long-lost aunt, she uncovers a buried family secret linked to the town’s historical expulsion of its Black residents. Chambers’ novel weaves identity, community, and resilience themes, offering a heartfelt exploration of Diamond’s journey toward understanding and self-acceptance.
Fire Exit by Morgan Talty
Morgan Talty’s Fire Exit is a compelling exploration of cultural heritage and familial bonds set against the backdrop of Maine’s Penobscot reservation. The novel follows a man who, after being displaced by a law linking residency to tribal status, observes his estranged daughter from a distance. Raised by his white mother and Native stepfather, the protagonist grapples with his own identity and the painful legacy of his family’s separation from their tribal roots. Talty’s narrative delves into themes of belonging and the search for personal and cultural reconnection, all while offering a striking portrayal of life on the fringes of community and family.
Behind You Is the Sea by Susan Muaddi Darraj
Susan Muaddi Darraj’s Behind You Is the Sea is a poignant exploration of identity and displacement through the lives of Palestinian-American characters. The novel intricately portrays the struggles and triumphs of individuals navigating between their heritage and their new life in America. Darraj’s storytelling is both tender and intelligent, capturing the emotional complexities of her characters’ experiences as they strive to reconcile their past with their present.
Come & Get It by Kiley Reid
Kiley Reid’s Come & Get It is a sharp, contemporary novel that tackles themes of desire, power, and personal agency. The story follows a young woman navigating the complexities of modern relationships and societal expectations. Reid’s incisive prose and witty dialogue bring an entertaining and thought-provoking narrative to life, making it a standout in contemporary fiction.
Headshot: A Novel by Rita Bullwinkel
In Headshot, Rita Bullwinkel presents a darkly humorous and innovative take on identity and perception. The novel centers on a character who embarks on a surreal journey of self-discovery following a series of bizarre and unsettling events. Bullwinkel’s unique narrative voice and imaginative storytelling challenge readers to think critically about the nature of identity and how we perceive ourselves and others.
How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang
Yulin Kuang’s How to End a Love Story is a refreshing and heartfelt exploration of romance and personal growth. The novel follows a protagonist who is determined to navigate the complexities of ending a relationship while embarking on a journey of self-discovery. Kuang’s engaging writing style and relatable characters make this a captivating read full of emotional depth and authenticity.
Cahokia Jazz: A Novel by Francis Spufford
Francis Spufford’s Cahokia Jazz offers a rich and immersive dive into the world of jazz and its cultural impact. Set against the backdrop of the Cahokia Mounds and a vibrant jazz scene, the novel weaves historical and fictional elements to explore music, culture, and identity themes. Spufford’s lyrical prose and evocative storytelling create a dynamic and memorable reading experience.
The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo
Leigh Bardugo’s The Familiar is a richly imagined fantasy that delves into a world of magic and intrigue. The novel follows a protagonist who discovers an unexpected connection to a magical realm and must navigate a web of secrets and power struggles. Bardugo’s skillful world-building and engaging characters make this a standout in the fantasy genre.
A Short Walk Through a Wide World: A Novel by Douglas Westerbeke
Douglas Westerbeke’s A Short Walk Through a Wide World is an evocative exploration of adventure and self-discovery. The novel follows a character on a journey through diverse landscapes and experiences, reflecting on the broader meaning of life and personal growth. Westerbeke’s lyrical prose and thoughtful narrative offer readers a reflective and inspiring reading experience.