Pan Macmillan's Best Literary Fiction of 2024

A curated list of the most compelling literary fiction titles of 2024, featuring works from renowned and emerging authors.

Cover of James

James

4.5

A profound and ferociously funny reimagining of the classic Huck Finn story, following Jim, an enslaved man, on a perilous journey for freed…

Cover of A Long Winter

A Long Winter

4.0

A poignant tale of loss and new love set in the Pyrenees, exploring the emotional journey of a young boy and his family during a harsh winte…

Cover of Martyr!

Martyr!

3.9

A newly sober poet embarks on a quest to uncover his family's secrets, leading him to a terminally ill painter and a painting that challenge…

Cover of Our Evenings

Our Evenings

4.2

A piercing novel that explores class, race, and identity through the life of Dave Win, a mixed-race boy navigating elite English society and…

Cover of Rooms for Vanishing

Rooms for Vanishing

4.2

A mind-bending epic about a Jewish family fractured across different worlds after the violence of war, each member believing they are the so…

Cover of Thirst Trap

Thirst Trap

4.3

A hilarious yet heart-wrenching tale of friendship, grief, and growing up, set in Belfast. Maggie, Harley, and Róise navigate their crumblin…

Cover of Among Friends

Among Friends

4.3

A weekend gathering of lifelong friends takes a dark turn when a shocking betrayal shatters their trust, exposing hidden resentments and fau…

Cover of The Sunshine Man

The Sunshine Man

3.8

A gripping tale of revenge and redemption, where a woman seeks to avenge her sister's murder, only to uncover a web of secrets and lies.

Cover of Long Island

Long Island

3.7

Eilis Lacey navigates life in a close-knit Italian-American family on Long Island, balancing her Irish roots and new American life in the 19…

Cover of Ripeness

Ripeness

4.2

A poignant exploration of sisterhood, forbidden love, and the search for belonging, Ripeness weaves together the lives of two sisters across…

Cover of The Paris Express

The Paris Express

3.7

A deadly plot unfolds aboard a train hurtling towards Paris in this gripping historical thriller by Emma Donoghue, masterfully blending susp…

Cover of Fair Play

Fair Play

3.8

A murder mystery party turns deadly when the host's brother is found dead, unraveling dark secrets and unexpected truths.

Cover of Days of Light

Days of Light

4.0

A lyrical and captivating tale inspired by the Bloomsbury Group, Days of Light follows Ivy's life across six pivotal days over six decades, …

Cover of Ask Me Again

Ask Me Again

3.5

A profound tale of friendship and self-discovery, 'Ask Me Again' follows Eva and Jamie as they navigate their divergent paths, challenging t…

Cover of The Boy from the Sea

The Boy from the Sea

4.4

Discovered as a baby on an Irish beach, Brendan grows into a charismatic enigma, forever changing the lives of the tight-knit fishing commun…

Cover of Salutation Road

Salutation Road

4.0

A young woman's life takes an unexpected turn when she finds herself in an alternate timeline, confronting the life she could have had.

Pan Macmillan's Best Literary Fiction of 2024 showcases a diverse and captivating collection of novels that push the boundaries of storytelling. This list includes both celebrated authors and exciting new voices, offering a rich tapestry of themes and narratives. From heart-wrenching epics to profound explorations of human nature, these books are selected for their literary merit and their ability to resonate deeply with readers. Whether you're a seasoned literature enthusiast or a casual reader looking for your next great read, this list promises to inspire and captivate. Dive into the best literary fiction of the year and discover stories that will stay with you long after the last page.

Source: https://www.panmacmillan.com/blogs/literary/best-books-literary-fiction-non-fiction-picador