Books of the Year 2024: Fiction

Blog · Posted November 18, 2024

The books we have loved and recommended the most throughout the year.

Every year our booksellers have the tough task of deciding what their favourite books were throughout the previous 12 months. This year we really struggled and our list is longer than ever before. Our fiction category is always the hardest to narrow down but from downright hilarious debuts to fast-paced thought-provoking retellings, our fiction Books of the Year for 2024 hopefully include something everyone will enjoy.


Glorious Exploits by Ferdia Lennon

Hardback | £16.99 | Chosen by Vicky

What an unexpected, riotous joy. Equal parts tragic and downright hilarious, this story shows us the importance of brotherhood, unlikely friendships and hope.”


Mina’s Matchbox by Yoko Ogawa

Hardback | £18.99 | Chosen by Sarah

A quiet heartfelt novel to savour. It’s graceful writing and storytelling felt like a warm hug.”


James by Percivel Everett

Hardback | £20 | Chosen by Sarah

The perfect balance between comic, thought-provoking and thrilling, this re-imagined tale is nothing short of brilliant.”


The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden

Hardback | £16.99 | Chosen by Rosamund

The Netherlands, 1961. A powerful, sometimes visceral, examination of home, generational guilt and unexpected, intense love.”


Clear by Carys Davies

Hardback | £12.99 | Chosen by Rosamund

“1843 – an impoverished minister travels to a remote Scottish island to evict the last remaining inhabitant. You will savour every polished word.”


All the Colours of the Dark by Chris Whitaker

Hardback | £20 | Chosen by Jen

“DO NOT start reading this heart wrenching novel unless you have nothing to do for the next 15 hours – you will be unable to put it down!”


Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors

Hardback | £16.99 | Chosen by Nina

“The Blue sisters will pull you in to their family, and their secrets. It makes you wish you had sisters whilst, at times, grateful that you don’t!”


Orbital by Samantha Harvey

Paperback | £9.99 | Chosen by Jen

“A huge novel disguised in a pocket-sized novella. Wonder at our unearthly earth and our place in the dizzying universe.”


Close to Home by Michael Magee

Paperback | £9.99 | Chosen by Vicky

“Both stunning and devastating, this remarkable debut is a tender study of masculinity written with powerful observation. One to watch.”


North Woods by Daniel Mason

Paperback | £9.99 | Chosen by Sarah

“A masterfully crafted read that lets you see the small things that make up the world as well as the expansive impact of history.”


Kala by Colin Walsh

Paperback | £9.99 | Chosen by Sarah

“Dark, nostalgic and addictive, this coming-of-age thriller set in small town Ireland is totally unputdownable.”


The Black Eden by Richard T. Kelly

Paperback | £9.99 | Chosen by Rosamund

“A fascinating, beautifully crafted story set during Scotland’s ‘wild west’ oil boom, told through the eyes of five young men.”


The Housekeepers by Alex Hay

Paperback | £9.99 | Chosen by Vicky

“Fabulous, fast and FUN. A group of servants decides to exact a flamboyant revenge. Underestimate them at your peril.”


The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride

Paperback | £9.99 | Chosen by Sarah

“An uplifting and incredibly satisfying tale that’s rich with an indelible cast of characters and delightful karmic justice. Pick it up and enjoy!”


My Fathers House by Joseph O’Connor

Paperback | £9.99 | Chosen by Vicky

“A heart-stoppingly tense read about bravery in the face of unimaginable danger. Expertly crafted by a remarkable storyteller.”


We hope that our Books of the Year help you solve some of your Christmas gifting dilemmas. However, if you’re still in need of some help do contact us and we will be happy to help.

We are open seven days a week in December 

Mon-Sat 9-5:30pm · Sunday: 11-4:30pm

Christmas Eve – OPEN until 4.30pm
Christmas Day – CLOSED
Boxing Day – CLOSED
Hogmanay – OPEN until 3pm (Café closes at 2.30pm)
New Year’s Day – CLOSED
2nd January – CLOSED

Please note: last orders for the Café must be made 30 minutes before closing time

St Boswells, Melrose, Scottish Borders TD6 0AT
Phone +44 (0)1835824087 · Email books@mainstreetbooks.co.uk

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