The Exciting New List Of May 2024 Book Releases
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Ready to discover your next literary obsession? Explore the hottest May 2024 book releases, including my top picks and the most talked-about titles of the month.
It’s always exciting to start a new month, especially when you get to plan out your reading list! There are some fantastic books coming out soon, ranging from romantic novels to popular New York Times bestsellers, thought-provoking coming-of-age stories, and gripping historical fiction novels.
With so many new books being published every month, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to include in your reading list. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
Every month, I’ll highlight some of the most exciting upcoming releases that you should remember. As an eclectic reader, I balance my reading list and recommendations with a mix of genres from both established and debut authors to give you the best and most varied reading experience possible. So, I’m confident that you’ll find something you’ll love on this list.
Happy Reading!
If you’re looking for all the upcoming books, take a look at
Best May 2024 Book Releases
If Something Happens to Me
by Alex Finlay
Thriller
Publication Date: May 28, 2024
Ryan Richardson’s life is turned upside down when his girlfriend Ali goes missing, and her car is found submerged in a lake. With no proof or leads, Ryan becomes the target of online trolls and suspicion. However, when new evidence surfaces during his law school trip to Italy, Ryan must race against time to find the truth before it’s too late.
The Paradise Problem
by Christina Lauren
Romance
Publication Date: May 14, 2024
Anna and West were college sweethearts who thought they had it all figured out. But after their quickie wedding, Anna discovers that the divorce papers she signed at graduation weren’t actually filed, and she’s still legally married to West. Fast forward three years, and they’re now divorced, but when Liam inherits a fortune from his grandfather with one catch – he must be happily married for five years – he turns to his ex-wife for help.
The Last Murder at the End of the World
by Stuart Turton
Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Publication Date: May 21, 2024
A dystopian world destroyed by a deadly fog. On an isolated island, a small community of villagers and scientists live in peace until one of the scientists is brutally murdered. With only 107 hours before the fog engulfs the island and everyone on it, the race is on to solve the murder and prevent their ultimate demise. But with the added obstacle of wiped memories, the killer could be anyone – even one of their own.
This Summer Will Be Different
by Carley Fortune
Romance
Publication Date: May 7, 2024
Summer has always been a time for relaxation, adventure, and romance. And this year, Lucy is determined to make her summer different from all the others and stick to her plans. But then she meets Felix, the charming local and younger brother of her best friend. With his irresistible charm and undeniable chemistry, Lucy falls for Felix despite all the reasons why they should stay away from each other.
Lies and Weddings
by Kevin Kwan
Romance
Publication Date: May 21, 2024
Rufus Leung Gresham is faced with a difficult decision – to marry for money or follow his heart. As the son of a former Hong Kong supermodel, Rufus must save his family’s legacy by seducing a wealthy woman at his sister’s wedding. But when a volcanic eruption and scandalous secret threaten to unravel everything, Rufus must choose between his family’s reputation or true love with the girl next door.
Save for Later
Bits and Pieces
by Whoopi Goldberg
Nonfiction
Publication Date: May 7, 2024
In her latest memoir, Whoopi Goldberg opens up about her loving and inspiring relationship with her mother, Emma Johnson. From their humble beginnings in New York City’s projects to becoming one of the most successful entertainers in Hollywood, Goldberg takes readers on a journey through her childhood and how her mother’s unconditional love and support shaped her into the woman she is today.
You Like It Darker
by Stephen King
Horror
Publication Date: May 21, 2024
A collection of twelve stories that showcase Stephen King’s mastery of the written word. With each story, readers are taken on a journey through the darker side of life, exploring themes of fate, mortality, and the unknown.
Top Thrillers May 2024
One Perfect Couple
by Ruth Ware
Publication Date: May 21, 2024
Lyla and her boyfriend, Nico, join a reality TV show called One Perfect Couple, but things go horribly wrong when they are stranded on a deserted island and must compete for survival against four other couples. As the group struggles to survive and tensions rise, Lyla begins to question whether this is just a game or if something more sinister is at play.
The Switch
by Lily Samson
Publication Date: May 28, 2024
Elena and Adam think they’ve hit the jackpot when offered the opportunity to house-sit in a wealthy neighborhood. But when they meet Sophia and Finn, their seemingly perfect lives turn dark as they are pulled into a dangerous game of love and obsession. As secrets are revealed and relationships become more entangled, Elena must navigate her way out before it’s too late.
The Return of Ellie Black
by Emiko Jean
Publication Date: May 21, 2024
As Chelsey delves deeper into Ellie’s case, she realizes there may be more to this disappearance than meets the eye. As she unravels the layers of secrets and lies surrounding Ellie and her family, Chelsey must confront her own past trauma and fears to bring justice to both Ellie and her own sister.
Top Historical Fiction May 2024
Daughters of Shandong
by Eve J. Chung
Publication Date: May 7, 2024
Set against the backdrop of China’s civil war in 1948, Daughters of Shandong follows the Ang family as they navigate their time’s turbulent political climate and societal expectations. As the Communist army approaches their town, the Angs are forced to flee and leave their four daughters and mother behind. But these women refuse to be seen as mere burdens or victims of war – they fight for their survival and their right to determine their own destiny.
Save for Later
Ella
by Diane Richards
Publication Date: May 7, 2024
Set in 1930s New York City during the Great Depression, Ella by Diane Richards follows the journey of a fifteen-year-old Ella Fitzgerald as she navigates through poverty, trauma, and racism to become one of America’s most successful female vocalists.
Last House
by Jessica Shattuck
Publication Date: May 14, 2024
The Taylors are a wealthy family living in the idyllic Vermont mountains, thanks to their patriarch Nick’s successful career with American Oil. But as America faces critical turning points in history and societal values shift, each member of the Taylor family must confront their own personal struggles and reckon with the consequences of their choices.
Most anticipated May 2024 New Books
Summers at the Saint
by Mary Kay Andrews
Romance
Publication Date: May 7, 2024
Tracy Eddings never felt like she belonged at the St. Cecelia hotel, known to locals as “the Saint.” But when she married the owner’s son and inherited the hotel after his tragic death, she became determined to restore it to its former glory. After years of hard work, Traci has finally turned the hotel around and looks forward to a successful summer season. But when her greedy brother-in-law threatens to sabotage her efforts, Traci is forced to take on a motley crew of summer staff to help keep the hotel running.
The Guncle Abroad
by Steven Rowley
Literary Fiction
Publication Date: May 21, 2024
Patrick O’Hara navigates the challenges of being a single fifty-year-old man while also trying to support his niece and nephew after their mother’s passing. When his brother announces his wedding in Italy, Patrick takes the kids on a journey where he learns about love and family, ultimately helping him rediscover himself.
The Blast from the Past
by Lucy Score
Thriller
Publication Date: May 14, 2024
Riley Thorn and her boyfriend, Nick Santiago, navigate their new fixer-upper home and a cold case that won’t let them rest. As they try to solve the case, they also have to deal with unexpected house guests and a kidnapping that puts Riley’s psychic powers on the fritz.
Better Left Unsent
by Lia Louis
Romance
Publication Date: May 21, 2024
Thirty-year-old Millie Chandler navigates the aftermath of all her unsent emails being accidentally sent out. With her heart already shattered from a public breakup two years ago, Millie has been keeping everything to herself in an attempt to protect herself from getting hurt again. But when her deepest truths, lies, and secrets are suddenly exposed to the world, Millie must find a way to fix the chaos she’s caused and face everything she’s been hiding from.
Reese's Book Club Pick May 2024
Reese’s Book Club is a book club founded by Reese Witherspoon. The club reads one book a month and then discusses it online. All the books are chosen with a wide range of readers in mind. Reese’s Book Club is a great way to get recommendations for books to read and to connect with other readers. Here you’ll find the updated list and know about my favorite picks.
How To End a Love Story
by Yulin Kuang
Romance
Publication Date: April 9, 2024
Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard’s paths have crossed again after thirteen years, but this time in the writers’ room of the TV adaptation of Helen’s bestselling young adult novels. Despite trying to move on from their shared past, both find themselves drawn to each other once again. As they navigate through working together and facing their unresolved feelings, they must also confront the secrets that have kept them apart all these years.
Read With Jenna Book Club May 2024
The Read with Jenna Book club is a great way for fans of Jenna Bush Hager to connect with each other and discuss their favorite books. It’s also a great way to discover new authors and learn more about the reading experience. If you’re looking for a way to get more out of your reading, be sure to check out the updated Read with Jenna Book Club List. You won’t regret it!
Real Americans
by Rachel Khong
Literary Fiction
Publication Date: April 30, 2024
Lily Chen and Matthew fall in love despite their different backgrounds – Lily, a broke Chinese American from Tampa, and Matthew, a wealthy East Coaster. Years later, their son Nick goes on a journey to find his biological father and confronts questions about identity and belonging. This immersive novel by Rachel Khong delves into issues of class, race, and family in modern America
GMA Book Club May 2024
The Ministry of Time
by Kaliane Bradley
Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Publication Date: May 7, 2024
Set in a near future where time travel is a reality, a civil servant is tasked with living and working with an expat from 1847. As they work together to determine the feasibility of time travel, they develop an unexpected bond that forces them to confront their beliefs and choices. With a charming and chaotic cast of fellow expats, this debut novel by Kaliane Bradley is a time travel romance, spy thriller, workplace comedy, and exploration of power and love all rolled into one.
Book of the Month May 2024
Book of the Month is perfect if you’re looking for a subscription that will keep you entertained and engaged. They carefully select books from well-known authors and new releases to send to their subscribers. You’re guaranteed to find a great book each month.
So if you’re looking for a great way to get new books each month, Book of the Month is a great option. Try it out today!
Middletide
by Sarah Crouch
Five Broken...
by Mai Corland
The Ministry of...
by Kaliane Bradley
The Return of...
by Emiko Jean
The Paradise Problem
by Christina Lauren
Real Americans
by Rachel Khong
What books are you most excited about this month? Share your top picks in the comments below and let’s discuss our TBR piles!