The Most-Anticipated Book Releases in August 2024
- dessimalakov
- Jul 18, 2024
- 10 min read
Updated: Oct 3, 2024
This summer brings a wave of exciting new books across multiple genres, from steamy romances to epic fantasies and gripping thrillers. Whether you're seeking a beach read or a cozy evening companion, these upcoming titles offer something for every reader.
For those with specific genre preferences, separate lists are available for romance, fantasy, crime & thriller releases.
most anticipated book releases august 2024
August 6th
Hum
by Helen Phillips
In Helen Phillips' novel "Hum," May, a woman living in a climate-changed world populated by intelligent robots called "hums," loses her job to AI. Desperate to secure her family's future, she undergoes an experimental facial alteration to avoid surveillance. May takes her family to a rare green refuge, the Botanical Garden, hoping for respite from their device-addicted lives. However, the experience proves more challenging than anticipated. When her children are threatened, May must rely on an unpredictable hum for help.
"Hum" explores themes of motherhood, marriage, and identity in a near-future world grappling with climate change and rapid technological advancement. Phillips crafts a taut, urgent narrative that blends dystopian and utopian elements, offering a thought-provoking look at our potential future and the compromises it may demand.
House of Glass
by Sarah Pekkanen
In Sarah Pekkanen's gripping thriller "House of Glass," the seemingly perfect Barclay family hides dark secrets behind their facade. After their nanny's mysterious death, nine-year-old Rose stops speaking, and best interest attorney Stella Hudson is brought in to uncover the truth.As Stella navigates the twisted dynamics of the Barclay household, she discovers the family's hidden turmoil and the eerie nature of their glassless, plastic home. With everyone a suspect, including Rose, Stella must unravel the lies to protect the innocent and reveal the murderer.
"House of Glass" promises a suspenseful, page-turning experience filled with compelling characters and shocking twists, making it a must-read for thriller enthusiasts.
The Pairing
by Casey McQuiston
Sparks fly and wine flows as exes Theo and Kit accidentally book the same European culinary tour, igniting a sizzling competition to prove they're over each other. But as they eat and drink their way through romantic cities, they discover that the most intoxicating pairing might just be the one they left behind.
Will their rivalry lead to new conquests, or will the flavors of the past prove too tempting to resist?
Plays Well with Others
by Sophie Brickman
In this wickedly funny debut, Annie Lewin's life spirals into chaos as she navigates the cutthroat world of New York City parenting. A former journalist turned advice columnist, Annie finds herself caught in a web of kindergarten admissions, rival parents, and her own unraveling sanity.
As she battles the perfect-seeming Belinda Brenner and her Instagram-worthy life, Annie's descent into parental madness becomes fodder for her increasingly popular column. But when a social misstep goes viral, she's forced to confront her own judgmental nature.
Told through a vibrant mix of emails, texts, and columns, this satirical romp exposes the absurdities of modern motherhood while delivering a heartfelt exploration of what it truly means to be a parent.
A Sorceress Comes to Call
by T. Kingfisher
Cordelia's life is anything but ordinary with a mother who's an evil sorceress, forcing her into silence and stillness for days. When they move into the manor of a wealthy Squire, Cordelia finds an unexpected ally in his sharp-witted sister, Hester. As her mother's dark plans unfold, Cordelia must decide whether to defy the sorceress who raised her to protect the newfound family she never thought she'd have.
In this dark and gripping reimagining of "The Goose Girl," secrets, murder, and forbidden magic intertwine, challenging Cordelia to confront her deepest fears and desires.
The Lost Coast
by Jonathan & Jesse Kellerman
In this gripping new installment of the Clay Edison series, the former coroner turned private investigator finds himself entangled in a decades-old web of deception on California's remote Lost Coast. What begins as a simple fraud case quickly spirals into a dangerous game of cat and mouse, pitting Clay against a cast of enigmatic characters and a town fiercely guarding its secrets.
As he navigates treacherous waters both literal and figurative, Clay must unravel a complex conspiracy that threatens not only his investigation but his very life.
The Kellerman duo delivers a pulse-pounding thriller that promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats, blending intricate mystery with the rugged beauty of the Lost Coast
Series: Clay Edison, Book 5
Four Weekends and a Funeral
by Ellie Palmer
In this heartwarming and hilarious debut, Alison Mullally finds herself in an unexpected predicament when she attends her ex-boyfriend's funeral. Posing as the grieving girlfriend, she's thrust into a four-weekend ordeal of packing up his apartment alongside his grumpy best friend, Adam. As Alison navigates awkward family encounters and sorting through memories, she discovers an undeniable spark with the last person she expected.
This witty rom-com explores themes of self-discovery, second chances, and the courage to embrace life after loss, all while delivering laugh-out-loud moments and swoon-worthy tension.
August 8th
The Rich People Have Gone Away
by Regina Porter
In Regina Porter's captivating new novel, the lives of ordinary New Yorkers intertwine against the backdrop of a city in lockdown. When Theo and Darla Harper retreat to their upstate cottage, they leave behind a diverse cast of characters in their Brooklyn apartment building. The story takes a thrilling turn when Darla vanishes after a heated argument, thrusting Theo into the spotlight of a high-profile investigation.
Porter masterfully weaves themes of race, privilege, and hidden truths, creating a narrative that is both timely and profound. With its vivid characters and exploration of what connects and divides us, "The Rich People Have Gone Away" promises to be a gripping and thought-provoking read that delves deep into the complexities of modern American life.
There are Rivers in the Sky
by Elif Shafak
Across centuries and continents, three extraordinary lives intertwine through the enduring power of water and an ancient epic. From Victorian London's slums to war-torn Turkey and modern-day Thames, Elif Shafak's mesmerizing new novel follows a gifted child, a displaced Yazidi girl, and a heartbroken hydrologist as they navigate love, loss, and the search for belonging.
"There are Rivers in the Sky" is a spellbinding tale that proves water remembers what humans forget, weaving together the threads of history, memory, and the unexpected connections that shape our world.
August 13th
Born of Blood and Ash
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
In the thrilling conclusion to Jennifer L. Armentrout's Flesh and Fire series, Sera and Nyktos face their greatest challenge yet. As they fight to unite the Courts against the malevolent Kolis, Sera grapples with her own inner demons and the weight of an ancient prophecy. With the fate of both mortal and divine realms hanging in the balance, our heroes must confront not only their enemies but also the machinations of the Fates themselves.
As trust becomes a rare commodity and the line between justice and vengeance blurs, will Sera and Nyktos's love be enough to prevent the realms from descending into chaos and ash?
Series: Flesh & Fire, Book 4
I Need You to Read This
by Jessa Maxwell
In Jessa Maxwell's gripping new mystery, advice columnist Alex Marks finds herself thrust into a deadly game of secrets and lies. When her childhood hero and predecessor is brutally murdered, Alex impulsively takes over the famous "Dear Constance" column.
But as threatening letters arrive and dark secrets surface, she realizes the killer may be closer than she thinks. From Manhattan's glittering offices to a sinister summer house, Alex must unravel the truth before she becomes the next victim.
This atmospheric thriller promises to keep readers guessing until the very last page, blending the allure of the advice column world with the chilling suspense of a murder mystery.
The Break-Up Pact
by Emma Lord
In Emma Lord's sparkling new romance, former best friends June and Levi find themselves thrust into an unexpected fake dating scenario after their respective break-ups go viral. Ten years of silence between them dissolves as they agree to a pact: pretend to be in love to save June's struggling tea shop and make Levi's ex jealous. As they stage swoon-worthy photo ops and navigate five heart-pounding dates, the line between pretense and reality begins to blur.
Set against the backdrop of a picturesque beach town, this delightful second-chance romance explores the complexities of rekindled friendship, viral fame, and the unexpected ways love can bloom from the ashes of the past
Joy
by Danielle Steel
In Danielle Steel's poignant new novel, "Joy," we follow Allegra Dixon's journey from an abandoned child to a resilient woman in search of true happiness. Escaping into books as a lonely girl, Allegra finds unexpected love with Shep Williams, a dashing West Point cadet. But as war takes its toll on Shep, Allegra must confront the heartbreaking reality of loving a man changed by trauma.
Steel weaves a tale of perseverance and hope, challenging readers to believe in the possibility of joy even in the face of profound loss. Will Allegra's unwavering spirit lead her to the love and happiness she so richly deserves?
Burn
by Peter Heller
In Peter Heller's gripping new novel "Burn," two lifelong friends, Jess and Storey, find their annual wilderness retreat in rural Maine shattered by a dystopian nightmare. Emerging from weeks of off-grid hunting, they discover a landscape ravaged by violence and civil unrest. As they navigate a treacherous journey home through a fractured America, the men must confront not only the physical dangers of a country torn apart by secessionist conflict but also the unspoken tensions in their own relationship.
Heller masterfully blends the raw beauty of nature with the stark realities of political turmoil, crafting a haunting tale of survival, friendship, and the search for sanctuary in a world on the brink of collapse.
The Phoenix Keeper
by S. A. MacLean
In S.A. MacLean's enchanting debut, "The Phoenix Keeper," Aila's dream job at a magical zoo takes a thrilling turn when she must save the last phoenixes from extinction. Surrounded by fantastical creatures and facing off against poachers, Aila's biggest challenge might be working with her college rival, the infuriatingly attractive griffin keeper Luciana. As romance blooms amidst the magical menagerie, Aila discovers that saving a species requires more than just animal expertise – it demands courage, teamwork, and maybe even love.
This cozy romantasy promises a heartwarming adventure filled with mythical beasts, conservation challenges, and the unexpected magic of finding connection in the most surprising places.
August 20th
Heavy Hitter
by Katie Cotugno
In Katie Cotugno's sizzling new romance "Heavy Hitter," pop sensation Lacey Logan's carefully controlled world is thrown into chaos when she discovers her boyfriend's shocking secrets. Enter Jimmy Hodges, a former baseball star now past his prime, who unexpectedly captures Lacey's attention. As sparks fly between the unlikely pair, Lacey finds herself daring to step out of her carefully curated image and into uncharted territory.
This steamy, celebrity-athlete romance explores the collision of two worlds - the glittering realm of pop stardom and the gritty world of professional sports. Can Lacey and Jimmy, polar opposites on paper, find their perfect match in each other? Cotugno delivers a thrilling, ripped-from-the-headlines love story that will have readers rooting for this unconventional couple from page one.
The Unicorn Woman
by Gayl Jones
In Gayl Jones' riveting new novel "The Unicorn Woman," set in the post-WWII South, we follow the journey of Buddy Ray Guy, a Black army veteran returning to a Jim Crow society. Known as Budweiser to his army pals, Buddy is a witty, self-educated intellectual on a quest for meaning, love, and spiritual fulfillment. As he navigates life from Lexington, Kentucky, to Memphis, Tennessee, Buddy encounters a cast of colorful characters, including the enigmatic Unicorn Woman, who embodies his private mythology.
This deeply moving tale explores the struggles and hopes of Black and Indigenous people in a time of profound frustration and spiritual yearning.
My Salty Mary
by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, Jodi Meadows
In this swashbuckling reimagining of The Little Mermaid, Mary Read transforms from a heartbroken mermaid to a fierce pirate captain in "My Salty Mary." When her unrequited love threatens to turn her into sea foam, Mary finds herself aboard a pirate ship instead. Determined to embrace the pirate life fully, she sets her sights on becoming more than just a crew member - she wants to be captain, and maybe even Pirate Queen.
Facing opposition from Blackbeard's son, her leg-loving merman friend, and those who doubt a girl can lead, Mary must prove she's got what it takes to rule the high seas.
This rollicking adventure promises a perfect blend of fantasy, romance, and historical fiction, with a hefty dose of girl power that will leave readers cheering for more.
August 27th
Magical Meet Cute
by Jean Meltzer
In Jean Meltzer's charming new rom-com "Magical Meet Cute," potter Faye Kaplan's search for love takes an unexpected turn when she drunkenly creates a golem protector for her town. The next day, a handsome stranger named Greg appears, seemingly embodying every quality of Faye's perfect man. As their relationship blossoms, Faye can't help but wonder: is Greg truly her magical match, or did she accidentally summon her clay creation to life?
This delightful blend of Jewish folklore and contemporary romance promises laugh-out-loud moments, heartwarming connections, and a touch of mystical intrigue. Meltzer weaves a tale that explores the power of belief, the search for belonging, and the magic that can happen when love arrives in the most unexpected ways.
August 29th
You Will Never Be Me
by Jesse Q. Sutanto
In Jesse Sutanto's gripping new psychological thriller "You Will Never Be Me," the dark side of social media fame takes center stage. This suspenseful tale follows a female narrator as she obsessively stalks her former best friend, the wildly successful influencer Aspen Palmer. Driven by jealousy and a thirst for revenge, the protagonist plots to dismantle Aspen's picture-perfect life and claim it for herself. As the lines between friendship, envy, and obsession blur, readers are taken on a twisted journey through the cutthroat world of social media influencers.
Sutanto masterfully explores the toxic nature of online personas and the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition, promising a thrilling read that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The Examiner
by Janice Hallett
In Janice Hallett's intriguing new mystery "The Examiner," a diverse group of mature art students at Royal Hastings University becomes embroiled in a deadly puzzle. As six mismatched personalities clash through a year of artistic chaos, their final assignment takes a sinister turn when murder enters the picture. When an external examiner arrives to assess their work, he uncovers suspicious evidence suggesting a student's death and a potential cover-up.
Hallett masterfully weaves together clashing egos, artistic rivalries, and hidden agendas, challenging readers to unravel the truth alongside the examiner. With its unique academic setting and compelling cast of characters, this clever whodunit promises to keep readers guessing until the final brushstroke.
If you enjoyed exploring this list of upcoming book releases, I would love to hear your thoughts! Feel free to share your comments, recommendations, or any books you are eagerly anticipating. Your feedback is invaluable as I continue to curate exciting literary journeys for all book lovers.
Let me know what you think and stay tuned for more captivating reads!
most anticipated book releases august 2024
Disclaimer: I have added an affiliate link for your convenience so you can directly purchase the book if you are intrigued. This also means that I will receive small commission. This does not affect inclusion in my reviews or the overall rating of the book.
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