'I recommend books for a living. Here are 8 books worth the hype right now.'

Reading is the vibe right now. In fact, it always has been, but there does seem to be a recent surge of people putting down their phones, turning off their tellies and picking up a good ol’ fashioned novel or non-fiction number. There’s something about it: it forces your mind to be transported elsewhere, away from the ongoing daily stresses of work and life, for that balance we’re forever seeking. 

That all being said, the book market can be an overwhelming place. If you’re not generally a big reader, you might not know where to begin. If you are a big reader, you might simply feel flustered by too much choice. I get it, I’ve been there. 

To make things just a smidge easier for you, I’ve gone ahead and plucked out eight titles that are getting a lot of deserved hype right now. No doubt there will be something amongst them that tickles your fancy.

The School Run by Ali Lowe.

Image: Hachette/Mamamia.

Scandals, secrets, lies… say no more. Ali Lowe’s third novel is twisty and suspenseful, perfect for anyone who was a fan of Big Little Lies or Desperate Housewives. The story surrounds a group of parents in a coastal town as they prepare for the annual Gala Day hosted by the local boys’ school. When one boy is struck down by a hit and run, the entangled lives of three mothers begin to unravel.

This is the perfect book for anyone after something pacey and utterly compulsive. It’ll particularly hit home for any parent living in a close-knit community, but will be enjoyable across the masses.

A Brilliant Life by Rachelle Unreich.

Image: Hachette/Mamamia.

Holocaust stories remain compelling eighty years on, and this one is no different. Rachelle Unreich tells the powerful and inspiring true story of her mother Mira who survived several concentration camps before being freed in 1945. The narrative weaves together the past and present, from Mira’s story during the war to her battle with cancer. As Rachelle interviews her mother and pieces together the story of her life, the reader also learns about the powerful connection between a mother and her daughter.

For those of you who love heartbreaking, yet uplifting true stories, this one’s for you.

The Wake-Up Call by Beth O’Leary.

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You might recognise this author’s name and that’s because her novel The Flatshare was a huge bestseller (and still is). She’s back with an enemies-to-lovers romcom (my absolute favourite romance trope).This story follows Izzy and Lucas who are sworn enemies but are forced to work together at the front desk of the Forest Manor Hotel, a failing hotel that they’re both racing to save. 

It’s ideal escapism and perfect reading for this cooler, cosy weather that's setting in.

Unique by Jodi Rogers.

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Beloved star of ABC TV's award-winning Love on the Spectrum Jodi Rodgers shares her experience of working with the autistic community in which she has built a three-decade career as a disability rights advocate. Told through dozens of moving stories, Jodi calls for more inclusivity and explores the powerful impact of embracing neurodiversity and connecting with those around us. 

Ideal for readers who love something powerful, emotional and educational with a range of different stories and experiences.

Cool Water by Myfanwy Jones.

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For all you lit-fic lovers, Miles Franklin-shortlisted author Myfanwy Jones is back with a breathtaking tale that explores intergenerational relations, particularly those of fathers and sons. This story follows Frank who is celebrating his daughter’s wedding beside Tinaroo Dam — which has seen better days, much like his marriage and new business. As he grapples with the death of his father from the previous year and events from a long family history, Frank must decide if he can break free from the shadows of his family. 

This is such a breathtaking story, brimming with insight, and perfect for anyone who loves family dramas and the exploration of relationships. 

You Are Here by David Nicholls.

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This new love story by the beloved bestseller David Nicholls is one of first encounters, second chances and finding the way home.

Marnie is stuck; stuck working alone in her London flat, and stuck battling the long afternoons in a life that often feels like it's passing her by. Michael is reeling from his wife's departure, becoming reclusive, and taking himself on a lot of long, solitary walks. When a persistent mutual friend and some very English weather conspire to bring them together, Marnie and Michael suddenly find themselves alone on the most epic of walks and on the precipice of a new friendship.

It's such a tender, funny book that you won't want to put down.

Ripper by Shelley Burr.

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Fans of Chris Hammer and Hayley Scrivenor, or anyone who loves a small-town Aussie crime, will devour Ripper. The town of Rainier is still reeling from the murder of three innocent people that took place seventeen years ago. When a tour operator is killed in a copycat murder on Gemma’s doorstep, she and her police officer husband must face the dark past of the town and the people she thought she knew so well.

This is a richly layered murder-mystery, utterly compulsive and bound to keep you up at night – in the best way possible.

The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard by Natasha Lester.

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If you like a story that takes you back in time, then this one is picture-perfect. We follow three generations of women trying to prove themselves in their family’s fashion dynasty. It heads all the way back to 1917 in Paris, the 1970s in New York and into the French countryside in the present day. 

If you’re into gripping homage to women and fashion, look no further.

What new releases in 2024 are worth the hype? Tell us the books we missed in the comments below.

Find a book you'll love from Hachette Australia's collection of new releases.

Feature Image: Hachette/Mamamia.