New Books of August 2024
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With the dog days of summer in full swing, it’s easy to find yourself melting into your couch with a good book. As the temperature rises, so does our anticipation for fresh literary escapes. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling page-turner to accompany your poolside lounging or a cozy read for those rare moments of indoor respite, this month’s new releases have something to offer every reader. So grab your favorite summer beverage, find a shady spot, and dive into our curated list of must-read books.
A Diverse Selection of Must-Reads Awaits this June
The Book Guide’ editorial team creates a monthly list of popular new books, based on several ratings. The monthly curated preview of new books covers various genres, including contemporary fiction, historical fiction, mysteries, thrillers, sci-fi, fantasy, romance, horror, young adult, and nonfiction. Notable titles include The Seventh Veil of Salome by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, James S.A. Corey’s The Mercy of Gods, and Jazz Age Harlem by Hayley Dennings. Other notable titles include Shakespearean historical fiction, an adventurous bisexual romance, and a plausible vision of future American dystopia.
What to Read This August 2024: Best Book Releases.
- By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult
- The Seventh Veil of Salome by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
- Burn by Peter Heller
- The Volcano Daughters by Gina María Balibrera
- House of Glass by Sarah Pekkanen
- The Pairing by Casey McQuiston
- Daydream by Hannah Grace
- Lady Macbeth by Ava Reid
- Voyage of the Damned by Frances White
- The Mercy of Gods by James S.A. Corey
- House of Bone and Rain by Gabino Iglesias
- Hum by Helen Phillips
- This Ravenous Fate by Hayley Dennings
- The Rich People Have Gone Away by Regina Porter
- Men Have Called Her Crazy: A Memoir by Anna Marie Tendler
To help you navigate this exciting selection, we’ve compiled a curated list of some of the most anticipated and highly-recommended books hitting shelves this August So grab your favorite reading nook, settle in with a cup of ice tea, and prepare to be transported by the magic of storytelling!
By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult
By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult is a captivating novel that explores identity and storytelling. The story follows Emilia Bassano, a playwright in Elizabethan England, and Melina Marchetta, a contemporary director, who both grapple with authorship and authenticity. Picoult skillfully draws parallels between their experiences, highlighting the challenges faced by female artists seeking recognition. The novel’s rich characters and thought-provoking themes make it a compelling read for both historical fiction and contemporary issues.
The Seventh Veil of Salome by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s The Seventh Veil of Salome is a blend of historical fiction and gothic horror, set in 1920s Hollywood. The novel explores ambition, obsession, and the dark side of fame, blending decadent atmosphere with occult elements. The novel features complex characters and atmospheric prose, making it a captivating exploration of the dark side of fame and the lengths people will go to achieve it.
Burn by Peter Heller
Burn is a post-apocalyptic novel by Peter Heller that explores themes of friendship, survival, and the fragility of civilization. The story follows Jess and Storey, two lifelong friends, who find their annual hunting trip in Maine disrupted by chaos and violence. Heller’s tense and thought-provoking read serves as a warning about the potential consequences of societal breakdown.
The Volcano Daughters by Gina María Balibrera
Gina María Balibrera’s The Volcano Daughters is a haunting novel that explores sisterhood, loss, and resilience. The story follows Graciela and Consuelo, two sisters separated by El Salvador’s genocide. Through ghostly narrators, the novel explores grief, exile, and the power of family. Balibrera’s vivid prose and plot combine historical tragedy and magical realism for an unforgettable reading experience.
House of Glass by Sarah Pekkanen
Sarah Pekkanen’s House of Glass is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the heart of a complex custody battle. Lawyer Stella Hudson is drawn into a world of secrets and lies when appointed to represent a mute child at the center of a bitter dispute. The novel masterfully weaves together suspenseful plot twists with a deep exploration of trauma and family dynamics. Pekkanen’s ability to create compelling characters and maintain a constant sense of unease makes House of Glass an addictive read that will keep you guessing until the final page.
The Pairing by Casey McQuiston
Casey McQuiston’s The Pairing is a delectable romantic comedy that whisks readers on a whirlwind European food and wine tour. Ex-lovers Theo and Kit, a sommelier and pastry chef respectively, find themselves reunited and forced to navigate their complicated past amidst stunning backdrops. With sharp wit, vibrant characters, and a tantalizing exploration of love, loss, and self-discovery, McQuiston delivers another winning formula. This novel is a delightful escape filled with laughter, longing, and the perfect amount of culinary indulgence.
Daydream by Hannah Grace
Daydream by Hannah Grace is a charming contemporary romance that effortlessly blends academic challenges with budding love. The story follows Halle, a dedicated student and aspiring writer, as she navigates her busy life. When she meets the charismatic hockey player Henry, their unlikely connection sparks an unexpected friendship and a slow-burn romance. Grace’s writing is both witty and heartwarming, creating characters you can’t help but root for. With a perfect balance of humor, academic pressure, and heartfelt moments, Daydream is a delightful escape that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Maple Hills series.
Lady Macbeth by Ava Reid
Ava Reid’s Lady Macbeth is a captivating reimagining that delves deep into the psyche of Shakespeare’s iconic anti-heroine. Reid masterfully crafts a world of darkness and ambition, offering a fresh perspective on a familiar tale. By giving Lady Macbeth a voice and a complex backstory, the author challenges traditional interpretations and invites readers to question the motivations of this enigmatic character. With lush prose and a gothic atmosphere, Lady Macbeth is a compelling exploration of power, desire, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
Voyage of the Damned by Frances White
Voyage of the Damned by Frances White is a captivating blend of fantasy and murder mystery. Set aboard a luxurious ship filled with a diverse cast of magically gifted individuals, the novel offers a thrilling whodunit with a touch of political intrigue. As the passengers embark on a perilous journey, a series of unexpected deaths throws the ship into chaos. White’s imaginative world-building and well-developed characters create a compelling atmosphere of suspicion and danger, making this a must-read for fans of both genres.
The Mercy of Gods by James S.A. Corey
Lev Grossman’s “The Bright Sword” offers a fresh take on the Arthurian myth. It’s not your typical tale of chivalry and courtly love. The kingdom is in ruins, magic is returning, and the legendary heroes are flawed and haunted by their past. The story follows Collum, a new character thrust into the center of this decaying world. He, along with a band of unlikely companions, must uncover the truth behind Arthur’s fall and find a way to unite a fractured Britain. If you’re looking for a new spin on a classic legend, with complex characters and a touch of darkness, “The Bright Sword” is a must-read.
The Night Ends with Fire by K.X. Song
James S.A. Corey’s The Mercy of Gods is a high-octane space opera that thrusts readers into a universe on the brink of cataclysmic change. Humanity finds itself in the crosshairs of a powerful alien race, the Carryx, who demand the planet’s brightest minds as tribute. With a gripping plot that balances large-scale cosmic conflict with intimate character development, Corey masterfully explores themes of survival, resistance, and the true nature of power. While the novel’s breakneck pace and intricate world-building are undoubtedly impressive, it’s the exploration of human resilience in the face of overwhelming odds that truly leaves a lasting impact.
House of Bone and Rain by Gabino Iglesias
House of Bone and Rain by Gabino Iglesias is a raw and haunting coming-of-age tale set against the gritty backdrop of a Puerto Rican slum. Iglesias masterfully blends elements of myth, mysticism, and brutal realism to create a world both familiar and utterly terrifying. The novel follows a group of young men seeking vengeance after a tragic loss, their journey marked by violence, loyalty, and a growing sense of the supernatural. With prose that is both lyrical and unflinching, Iglesias delivers a powerful exploration of the human condition, the enduring bonds of brotherhood, and the inescapable weight of the past.
Hum by Helen Phillips
Hum by Helen Phillips is a haunting exploration of motherhood, marriage, and the fragility of our world. Set in a near future marked by climate change and technological overreach, the novel follows a mother desperately trying to protect her family from the encroaching chaos. Phillips’ prose is both stark and intimate, capturing the raw emotions of a woman grappling with fear and uncertainty. The novel is a chillingly prescient look at our potential future, while also offering a poignant reflection on the enduring power of human connection.
This Ravenous Fate by Hayley Dennings
Hayley Dennings’ This Ravenous Fate is a captivating blend of fantasy and romance set in the vibrant backdrop of Jazz Age Harlem. The novel introduces us to Elise and Layla, once inseparable friends, now entangled in a complex web of secrets and danger after Layla’s tragic transformation into a reaper. Dennings skillfully weaves together themes of friendship, love, and identity as the characters navigate a world filled with supernatural threats. With lush world-building and compelling characters, This Ravenous Fate is a promising debut that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
The Rich People Have Gone Away by Regina Porter
Regina Porter’s The Rich People Have Gone Away is a gripping exploration of race, class, and community set against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. The novel centers on the disappearance of a pregnant woman, drawing together a diverse group of New Yorkers whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways. Porter masterfully weaves together narratives of hope, fear, and resilience, offering a poignant commentary on the disparities exposed by crisis while ultimately celebrating the power of human connection.
Men Have Called Her Crazy by Anna Marie Tendler
Men Have Called Her Crazy is a raw and unflinching memoir by Anna Marie Tendler that delves deep into the complexities of mental health and the societal pressures women face. Tendler’s candid exploration of her journey through crippling anxiety, depression, and self-harm, culminating in a psychiatric hospital stay, is both heartbreaking and empowering. The book challenges the stigma surrounding mental illness while also examining the ways in which societal expectations and male-dominated narratives can contribute to women’s emotional distress.
