The 6 best books we read in October 2024, ranked and reviewed
· New York PostWith October serving as a busier month than most, this was the first month since 2020 I didn’t read at least 10 books. But, it’s about quality, and this list proves just that.
With some spooky, eerie books and other new releases from top authors, this edition of Post Wanted’s monthly books review is sure to have you adding top titles to your cart ASAP.
Not to mention, one of the below reads is straight from Reese’s Book Club and is guaranteed to be one of the best fall books you’ll find.
RELATED: Best September books we read, ranked and reviewed
Below, find the best October books we read, followed by a brief overview of the book and further information to shop it so it arrives at your door before you know it. Most of these titles are also beloved by the Amazon Books editors, and you’ll find their commentary below. What’s more, you’ll find additional recommendations below.
Not to mention, you can also listen to most of these titles on Audible; right now, you can sign up for Audible and snag it for only $0.99 each month for three months.
“The Life Impossible” by Matt Haig
Goodreads rating: 3.55/5 stars
About the book: “The Life Impossible” by Matt Haig explores themes of existentialism and the search for meaning through the intertwined lives of its characters, highlighting the struggles and joys of navigating a chaotic world.
“Matt Haig, the author of the internationally best-selling and beloved (and Amazon Editors’ Pick) ‘The Midnight Library‘ is back with his next foray into magical realism,” Kami Tei, Amazon editor, told the New York Post. “‘The Life Impossible’ transports readers to the beautiful Mediterranean island of Ibiza known for its dazzling nightlife and glamorous tourists — but the locals know there is something mysterious in the waters.”
That said, you’ll want to delight yourself in the allure of this tale of discovery, and the possibilities that arise when presented with the opportunity to start anew.
Buy on Hardcover | Buy on Paperback | Buy on Kindle
“Entitlement” by Rumaan Alam
Goodreads rating: 3.17/5 stars
About the book: “Entitlement” by Rumaan Alam delves into themes of privilege, race, and the complexities of human relationships as a group of friends confront their beliefs and biases during a pivotal weekend getaway.
“Readers were enthralled by Rumaan Alam’s ‘Leave the World Behind‘ about a vacation gone wrong, racism, parenting, privilege and how people react in a crisis (that then starred Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts), so it’s no surprise readers are flocking to his latest novel that is just as provocative and thrilling,” Al Woodworth, Amazon editor, said.
This book is filled with suspense, intrigue and a unique perspective that gives it a cozy, page-turning vibe.
Buy on Hardcover | Buy on Paperback | Buy on Kindle
“In the Garden of Monsters” by Crystal King
Goodreads rating: 3.75/5 stars
About the book: “In the Garden of Monsters” by Crystal King follows the story of a young girl in Renaissance Italy who becomes entangled in the dark world of art, power and family secrets, exploring the moral complexities of love and betrayal.
Crystal King, author of ‘Feast of Sorrow,’ brings us a reimagined look at the myth of Hades and Persephone in the form of an amnestic woman who models for surrealist era painters, a mysterious chef who knows too much, and a declining Salvador Dali who must paint a new masterpiece in Italy’s Garden of Monsters. “This books is perfect for those who love classic myths retold,” Ben Grange, Amazon editor, noted.
Buy on Hardcover | Buy on Kindle
“The Mighty Red” by Louise Erdrich
Goodreads rating: 3.99/5 stars
About the book: “The Mighty Red” by Louise Erdrich tells the poignant story of a young girl navigating her cultural identity and the challenges of growing up in a contemporary Native American community, blending themes of resilience, family and connection to heritage.
Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award-winning Louise Erdrich returns with another emotionally resonant novel — about trauma, grief, love and forgiveness — that proves she hasn’t lost her knack for engendering empathy in deeply flawed characters, for mining meaning out of the small moments and for seamlessly wading into one of the most controversial issues of the day.
“She does this with a distinct point of view and without being preachy,” Erin Kodicek, Amazon editor, added. “Erdrich is a true master in her craft.”
Buy on Hardcover | Buy on Paperback | Buy on Kindle
“Society of Lies” by Lauren Ling Brown
Goodreads rating: 3.65/5 stars
About the book: “Society of Lies” by Lauren Ling Brown explores the complexities of truth and deception as its characters navigate a world where appearances can be misleading, ultimately examining the impact of lies on relationships and identity.
Not to mention, this college campus thriller is Reese’s Book Club pick for October. It was juicy, engaging and a *thick* read, perfect for cozying up on the couch.
BUY ON HARDCOVER
BUY ON PAPERBACK
“No One Will Know” by Rose Carlyle
Goodreads rating: 3.73/5 stars
About the book: “No One Will Know” by Rose Carlyle is a psychological thriller about a woman who, driven by jealousy and ambition, devises a dark plan that spirals out of control, leading to unexpected consequences.
This book was one of the most memorable reads in October. With an engaging protagonist, twists and turns and a unique premise, it’ll have you turning until the last page.
Buy on Hardcover | Buy on Paperback | Buy on Kindle
Other October Books to read, per the Amazon Books Editorial team
“Be Ready When the Luck Happens: A Memoir” by Ina Garten
Goodreads rating: 4.54/5 stars
About the book: “Be Ready When the Luck Happens: A Memoir” by Ina Garten chronicles her journey from a government employee to a beloved culinary icon, sharing insights on embracing opportunities and the importance of preparation in achieving success.
“In ‘Be Ready When the Luck Happens’ — one of the books we were most excited for this year, and a Best Book of the Month Editor pick — best-selling author and icon Ina Garten throws open the curtains of her life, sharing her story with the warmth and jocularity of chatting at the kitchen table over a cup of coffee,” Seira Wilson, Amazon editor, shared. “There are plenty of surprises here, but it’s her grit, kindness, humor, and optimism that will inspire readers and keep them glued to the page.”
Buy on Hardcover | Buy on Paperback | Buy on Kindle
“The Last One at the Wedding” by Jason Rekulak
Goodreads rating: 3.73/5 stars
About the book: “The Last One at the Wedding” by Jason Rekulak follows a group of friends whose long-buried secrets and unresolved tensions resurface during a wedding weekend, ultimately testing their relationships and forcing them to confront their pasts.
Widower Frank Szatowski’s driving record is unblemished at UPS, but parenting has proven more challenging; he’s been estranged from his daughter Maggie for years, and fears that he’ll never speak to her again. So he’s relieved — and surprised — when she calls to invite him to her wedding.
“Determined not to blow this chance to be back in her life, he keeps his misgivings to himself after meeting her standoffish fiancé, Aidan, but when he arrives at the lavish private estate of Aidan’s tech billionaire father for the actual wedding, things go from bad to downright scary,” Vannessa Cronin, Amazon editor, explained. “Rekulak does a brilliant job of tying one hand behind his lead character’s back as Frank’s fear of pushing his daughter away permanently forces him to tread carefully.”
But, it’s the tightrope walk between comedy and suspense that will hook readers as Frank deals with his plus one, his social worker sister, while navigating the wealthy but alarming family Maggie is about to join.
Buy on Hardcover | Buy on Paperback | Buy on Kindle
“Revenge of the Tipping Point: Overstories, Superspreaders and the Rise of Social Engineering” by Malcolm Gladwell
Goodreads rating: 4.14/5 stars
About the book: “Revenge of the Tipping Point” by Malcolm Gladwell examines how small actions and influential individuals can create significant societal shifts, exploring the dynamics of social change through compelling narratives and insights into human behavior.
“‘Revenge of the Tipping Point’ — one of the Amazon Editors’ Best Books of October — is the kind of nonfiction book you could hand to literally anyone, and they would disappear for hours reading (both my husband and my sixth-grader snatched up my copy),” Lindsay Powers, Amazon Editor, shared. “Twenty-five years ago, Gladwell published ‘The Tipping Point’ which put him on the map as one of America’s most sought-after thinkers, speakers, podcasters and writers.”
Now, Gladwell is re-interrogating the “dark side” of his famous tipping point theory, sharing fascinating stories that show how a tiny action, or a number of people, can cause an epidemic, whether it’s opioid, crime or COVID. “But this isn’t a bleak read, because the takeaway is that a miniscule action or single person can also prevent, or stop an epidemic in its tracks,” Powers added. “You’ll walk away feeling inspired to action, with fresh insight into the forces that shape the world today.”
“John Lewis: A Life” by David Greenberg
Goodreads rating: 4.56/5 stars
About the book: “John Lewis: A Life” by David Greenberg offers a comprehensive biography of the civil rights leader, chronicling his pivotal role in the movement, personal sacrifices and enduring legacy of activism for social justice.
Thoroughly researched and expertly written, with quotes and references perfectly deployed, David Greenberg’s book chronicles the comprehensive and impressive life of John Lewis.
“From his childhood in Alabama to discovering his voice through the principles of nonviolence and sit-ins to becoming a leader of the Civil Rights movement in the 1960s to his ascendance to a political office where he became known as the ‘conscience of congress,’ to his ultimate passing in 2020 — Greenberg traces the entire arc of Lewis’ life, drawing on more than 275 documents and interviews with Lewis himself, his friends, confidants and peers,” Woodworth said.
Buy on Hardcover | Buy on Kindle
Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.
Hunting for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping with Post Wanted.