Support Us Button Widget

Raleigh’s most popular books of 2024

Explore last year’s most popular books according to Wake County Public Libraries.

RALtoday Wake County Libraries

Get your read on by signing up for a free library card at your closest Wake County library.

Photo via Wake County Public Libraries

Book lovers + enthusiasts alike, this one’s for you. The Wake County Public Libraries recently shared 2024’s most popular books in the county. Last year was a busy time for the libraries of Wake County, and the proof is in the pudding numbers.

Libraries aren’t just a hub filled with books, they’re centers filled with tools and resources aimed to support communities. In 2024 alone, Wake County Public Libraries welcomed over 3.1 million visitors that led to nearly 12 million checkouts. Additionally, the libraries hosted 10,000+ programs for the community and saw more than 300,000 program attendees.

But back to why we’re here — the most popular books of 2024 in Wake County spanned many genres. Whether you’re still building your TBR list or want to get more into reading, consider these titles:

Fantasy

  • “Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros
  • “Iron Flame” by Rebecca Yarros

Fiction

  • “The Five-Star Weekend” by Elin Hilderbrand
  • “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt

Historical Fiction

  • “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus
  • “The Women” by Kristin Hannah

Mystery + Thriller

  • “Don’t Believe It” by Charlie Donlea
  • “The Exchange: After The Firm” by John Grisham
  • “The Locked Door” by Freida McFadden
  • “The Teacher” by Freida McFadden
  • “You Shouldn’t Have Come Here” by Jeneva Rose

Romance

  • “Happy Place” by Emily Henry
  • “Tom Lake” by Ann Patchett

If you’re looking for more titles, explore our City Guide featuring locally owned bookstores and books written by authors with Raleigh ties.

More from RALtoday
Dig into delicious and nutritious vegan and vegetarian fare in every corner of Raleigh.
From the floral backdrop to the customized ring — we’re dreaming of having our own viral engagement in Oak City.
The Pack is back in Carter-Finley on Thursday, Aug. 28 — here’s what you need to know while rooting for NC State football this season.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Have you ever thought “That’s an odd place for a bar.” Well in Raleigh, there is no such thing as odd for these spots around town.
After its March closure, a new team with ties to the former ownership group of 42nd Street Oyster Bar has expressed interest in reopening the Raleigh staple as early as February 2026. Read up on readers’ memories from this local gem.
Learn about the biggest industries and employers in Wake County with this guide to local business.
NC State’s men’s and women’s basketball teams are joining forces for their exhibition games against South Carolina + Maryland, respectively, ahead of promising seasons.
Our readers dogeared these parks for us while we dream of this concept founded in South Korea’s capital city.
Electric-assist bikes are coming to downtown Raleigh, and they can start and stop just about anywhere. Here’s what you need to know before you hit the road.