Am I really that delusional to think reading the best romance books of the year had something to do with the deepened connection between my fiancé and I? Maybe, maybe not. What I do know is that these books sparked my imagination which led to more dates and the growth of a love language I used to cringe at — consistent physical touch.
If you love the classic romance troupes, you'll enjoy getting to know the many ways people can fall in love with these 10 books.
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Amazon
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Amazon
Ellie Wasserman and Kiernan O'Neill couldn't be more different than each other, but yet they're forced to get a little more acquainted when they get into a verbal spat during the latter's big night at the restaurant he works at. Ellie's supposed to be the ghostwriter for Kiernan's cookbook, but he has no idea what he wants to include and that aggravates Ellie because she thinks he has the privilege of not caring.
However, a weeks days together proves they've misjudged each other and things start heating up in more ways than one.
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Amazon
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Ali Morris reminds me of everyone who's know how to help other people keep track of things while their own life is a mess. She's still grieving her mom when her marriage crumbles so she kind of gives up on life. When she decides to at least get out of the house, she meets Ethan...while wearing overalls of all things.
She's not sure what will happen, but she decides to let herself get caught up in Ethan for the summer. She's genuinely surprised when it genuinely seems like Ethan likes her and wouldn't mind having something more than a summer romance.
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Amazon
Ford Grant doesn't care about having his accomplishments or looks celebrated. He'd actually prefer to set up shop in Rose Hill, but his plans are interrupted when his alleged daughter finds him. So, he runs his business and tries to connect with the moody pre-teen that's become a regular part of his life. Further complicating his life is the presence of Rosie Belmont — the sister of his best friend.
He doesn't hesitate to give her a job when she asks, determined to keep things professional. However, the more he tries to create distance between them, the more she inches closer.
There's so many reasons why Ford should stay away from Rosie, but emotion keeps overriding logic.
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Don't miss out on the overall best books I read in 2024! Check out our storefront for even more good reads to pick up this year!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
I read countless phenomenal new books in 2024, so I took great care (and honestly a little bit of anxiety) to write this definitive list of the best books I picked up this year. I cried and cheered with likable characters while fuming at those who took villainy to a new level (I'm side-eyeing you A Court of Thorns and Roses). Yet through it all, I reclaimed my love for reading and spending time in imaginary worlds. I even learned about how unhealthy parasocial relationships are in my favorite non-fiction pick!
Instead of keeping you waiting, let's talk about which books kept me in my feelings — and turning pages — and why.
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Not only was Christina Lauren fun to chat with, the author duo's summer novel The Paradise Problem gave me the best fake relationship-to-real one troupe. You won't know what to expect when the first few pages highlight Anna Green's divorce from Liam "West" Weston, but you'll be drawn in when you realize she didn't thoroughly read the documents he had her sign.
What happens next is a series of mishaps and drama that stem from trying to fit in with a wealthy (and snooty) family. But there's also the realization that Anna and Liam are about to see each other in a new light that stokes the flames of their hidden passion.
Watch a full recap of my interview with Christina Lauren here!
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Also listed on our best romantasy books list, Immortal Dark is another book I couldn't stop devouring. I'm on my third read and I keep finding something new that makes my jaw drop. It's fully of morally gray characters that are hard not to root for, especially the seductive Susenyos Sagad.
Maybe I've watched too many episodes of Vampire Diaries, but there's something intoxicating about a sexy vampire who's as drawn to an heiress — Kidan Adane — as she is to him.
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I've always wondered what it's like to attend an Ivy League school so the plot of this mystery book kept me on my toes. I couldn't wait to learn what happened to one Princeton alumni's sister and why she worked hard to keep her away from a certain secret society she used to be a part of.
Sadly, the web of lies that connects faculty to students is deeper than Maya knows and she soon realizes danger has been closer than she thought.
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Again with the vampires? Why, yes! However, So Thirsty is full of themes that aren't just about drinking blood. While it does play a role in Sloane's reawakening, you'll learn more about how easy it is to accept the status quo while letting your hopes and dreams fester. Though I don't think you need to become a vampire in order to change your life, it may help you realize the areas of your life you need to be more intentional in.
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Amanda Montell took our irrational fears and tendency to overthink, packaging them into a non-fiction read that'll nudge the rational part of your brain. It made me realize that we're constantly bombarded with information overload, conspiracy theories, and fan clubs daily.
As someone who works in media, I often have to unplug from the internet when I'm not working because I'm chronically online on purpose. However, The Age of Magical Overthinking reads like a soothing mental balm that's needed — hence why I love it so much.
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I love spicy romance books because I don't have to sneak to read them anymore. Also, it doesn't hurt that romantic, platonic, and familial relationships are covered in this one. What author Kennedy Ryan has created with her Skyline series is pure magic, especially with This Could Be Us.
You'll learn about Soledad Barnes' journey from being in a marriage lacking intimacy to becoming a single mother who has to care for her children amidst the fallout from her husband's indiscretions. Along the way, she finds support in familiar and unlikely places along with a new love she learns to trust.
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Real Americans is another read I can't stop thinking about because it's not about the surface level differences of socioeconomic statuses. There's an added layer that begs you as a reader to answer, "How far would you go to make sure your legacy lives on?"
Though you'll learn about how Lily and Matthew fell in love despite differences, you'll also be introduced to characters that shed light on terrible family secrets that have a trickle down effect.
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Margo's Got Money Troubleswas the best surprise read of the year because the title alone stands out. All I could when I first held the book in my hands is, "I've got money troubles too Margo! Let's be friends!" It's such a beautifully written modern take on single motherhood because it dares to humanize people who don't fit into society's neat definition of a 'respectable' mom.
Whether it's due to her unconventional upbringing or not, Margo realizes she's grasping for pennies when she decides to keep her unplanned baby. After losing her job and roommates, she comes up with a plan that many wouldn't support. However, all that matters is her taking care of her child by any means necessary and I do mean any.
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I Hope This Finds You Well is peak office culture drama and I loved every minute of it. From Sloane's disinterest in getting to know her co-workers to realizing how much she doesn't know about them, it helps you realize how imperfect everyone is. It doesn't mattered if you're labeled anti-social or not, there's always a reason for why we're willing or hesitant to be vulnerable with other employees.
Ah, don't forget the classic helicopter boss!
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I didn't expect to sob as much as I did while reading Blue Sisters, but it's a memorable read that reminds me how grateful I am to have a sister I actually like. Avery, Bonnie, and Lucky loved their sister Nicky so much that the aftermath of her death leads to different levels of processing grief.
Avery has a successful career as a lawyer while Bonnie decides what's next after her boxing dreams are cut short and Lucky? She's trying to fill a void between modeling and partying as much as possible.
They're forced to come to terms with their grief when they're faced with losing their childhood apartment and all the ways some things have followed them until adulthood.
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Hannah Tate, Beyond Repair was another read I lost myself in because it championed a first time mother's story and identity. It seems like people are starting to realizing moms are still human beings who have desires outside of figuring out how to care for a human for 18 years.
For Hannah, she realizes that her ex-boyfriend Killian isn't the kind of man she should be with long-term. But, she also finds out she's stronger and smarter than she's given herself credit for. The ironic thing is that she discovers this in the mountains of Blue Ridge, GA surrounded by a tight-knit group of people who feel like home.
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How to End a Love Storydoesn't sound like it's a rom-com because it's not meant to, according to author Yulin Kuang. She was more concerned about writing successful and flawed human beings who happen to find their way to each other despite carrying trauma.
Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard's feelings for each other are complicated at first, but they eventually realize they're able to have something the more they let their guards down. And when they confront the pain and confusion they've been carrying? The sky's the limit.
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One Last Summer was a feel-good rom-com that introduced me to another experience I've never had: going to summer camp. It begins with Clara Millen's boss forcing her to take a sabbatical from work because she works too hard and ends with her realizing she's always loved her camp rival Mack.
In between that, she and her childhood friends have to grapple with the fact the camp they made memories at is about to be sold to the highest bidder. Armed with nothing more but a checklist to help her remember her joyful center, Clara will have to make up for everything she's missed out on in order to save the one place she used to love.
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The God of the Woods broke my heart in pieces because it sheds light on how lies and greed can overshadow caring for family. When another Van Laar child goes missing from the camp they own, a search party gives way to an investigation because the incident is too odd. What unfolds is an intricate plan that reveals what happened to the first missing Van Laar child and how the men of the family did everything they could to maintain their wealth.
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According to some of the best books of 2024, every family has secrets they'd rather take with them to their graves. However, Mónica Campo learns more about her mother's misdeeds when the latter has to have an operation. Told through a series of flashbacks, Mónica realizes what she knew about her heritage and love for the father of her unborn child isn't the complete truth.
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It goes without saying that author Megan Miranda is a genius, but I'll spell it out if you're not familiar with her work. Daughter of Mine is a masterpiece because it expertly conveys the aftermath of a celebrated detective's death. Ironically, it's timed with an unfortunate drought that's plaguing the area which begins revealing terrible secrets that make the late detective's daughter question what people have been hiding all this time.
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As much as technology can be helpful, sometimes I wonder what will happen if people become too reliant on it to fulfill their every need. Author Sierra Greer explores this in Annie Bot, a novel about a robot who's the "perfect girlfriend" to Doug. She tries to do everything he asks and continuously learns from her mistakes when she doesn't get it right.
However, the more she begins to mold herself to feel more human, the more she begins to wonder if it's possible to stop taking orders and do what she wants.
Which books from the list did you read this year? For more of our favorite reads, be sure to check out our storefront!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Tourism can be a blessing for the economy of many cities around the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason — they’re unique, breathtaking places that lure travelers from around the globe. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for locals, and disrupt the peace and quiet of small, serene towns.
Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism with sustainability. Planning to visit? Consider booking during the off-season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try these hidden gems.
Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.
Willian Justen de Vasconcellos
Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.
Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.
Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.
Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.
Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.
This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.
Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.
The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.
The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.
Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.
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Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.
If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.
The Noshery
These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)
Broma Bakery
French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)
Pretty. Simple. Sweet.
Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)
Fancy Peasant
These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)
Very Eatalian
The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)
Cooking Classy
These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)
Olivia’s Cuisine
If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)
Cilantro Parsley
These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)
Chef Lindsey Farr
The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)
Life, Love and Sugar
In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)
Saveur
You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)
A Healthy Life for Me
These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)
Fancy Peasant
These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)
Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.
