Best new books 2024: What to read this summer

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As we eagerly await stretching out on a sun lounger with a good book in the summer, the spring months offer ample opportunity to power through your reading pile with some of the best new releases for 2024.

Whether you have a penchant for a crime caper or love reading a romantic romp, lighter evenings, bank holidays and lazy weekends are made better with a good book (or two).

From immersive historical epics to novels that transport you to warmer climes, the main criteria for a good spring book is simple: you won’t want to put it down. Luckily, new releases leave you spoiled for choice. From romance novels to Booker Prize-nominated tomes and laugh-out-loud stories, the mix is as eclectic as ever.

This year’s reading pile sees plenty of acclaimed debuts from the likes of Madeleine Grey, Maud Ventura and Alice Winn, as well as eagerly anticipated titles from acclaimed authors such as Kiley Reid, Paul Murray, Dolly Alderton, Zadie Smith and Andrew O’Hagan.

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 slavery in the Caribbean, and dating across the political spectrum and dark domestic dramas.

How we tested the best new books

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: