What made readers turn the pages in 2024? From edge-of-your-seat thrillers to enchanting fantasy worlds, these authors captured the hearts and imaginations of book lovers across the globe. Using insights from Libby, the leading platform for ebooks and audiobooks, we have compiled a list of the ten most beloved authors of the year. Whether you are into courtroom dramas or BookTok famous romantasy, there’s something for every literary taste.

James PattersonOnce again, James Patterson dominates the literary scene, solidifying his reputation as a master storyteller. Known for his action-packed thrillers and unmatched productivity, Patterson delivered three blockbusters this year: Lies He Told Me, The House of Cross (soon to be an Amazon Prime series), and Tiger, Tiger, a compelling biography on Tiger Woods. His much-anticipated collaboration with Bill Clinton, The First Gentleman, has also stirred excitement. This political thriller, exploring the life of the U.S.’s first female president and her husband facing a murder trial, promises to be one of his most gripping works yet. Sarah J. MaasSarah J. Maas continues to enchant fans with her rich and immersive romantasy worlds. Her latest release, House of Flame and Shadow, the third book in the Crescent City series, debuted to widespread acclaim in January 2024. With intricate plots and swoon-worthy characters, Maas remains a force to be reckoned with. Rumors of a new addition to her A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series have only heightened the anticipation surrounding her future works. Colleen HooverEven without releasing a new book in 2024, Colleen Hoover’s influence remains undeniable. Her bestselling It Ends With Us series regained momentum thanks to the highly anticipated film adaptation starring Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, which premiered in August. Hoover’s knack for blending emotional depth with relatable characters ensures her place among the year’s most talked-about authors. David BaldacciDavid Baldacci continues to deliver nail-biting suspense and intricate legal dramas. His latest thriller, To Die For, released in November 2024, showcases his signature ability to keep readers guessing until the final page. A household name in the crime and thriller genre, Baldacci’s books remain staples for fans of gripping storytelling. Kristin HannahKristin Hannah’s masterful storytelling and emotional depth make her a perennial favorite among readers. Best known for her poignant historical novels like The Nightingale and The Four Winds, Hannah’s enduring appeal lies in her ability to create characters that resonate deeply. Her latest book, The Women, continues to captivate audiences with its heartfelt exploration of resilience and love. Freida McFaddenFreida McFadden’s meteoric rise in the thriller genre is nothing short of remarkable. Her bestselling novels, including The Housemaid and The Teacher, combine psychological twists with edge-of-your-seat suspense. McFadden’s ability to craft unpredictable narratives has earned her a devoted following and a well-deserved spot among the year’s most popular authors. Rebecca YarrosRebecca Yarros captured the imagination of readers with her sensational Empyrean Series. Starting with the viral sensation Fourth Wing in 2023, the series has sold millions of copies and amassed an incredible following on social media. Fans eagerly await the next installment, drawn in by Yarros’s masterful blend of romance and fantasy in a vividly constructed world. John GrishamA legend in the legal drama genre, John Grisham continues to enthrall readers with his signature style. Renowned for classics like The Firm and A Time to Kill, Grisham’s latest works reaffirm his unmatched ability to weave complex legal and moral dilemmas into compelling narratives. His enduring popularity speaks to his status as a literary icon. Nora RobertsNora Roberts proves once again why she is the queen of romance. Her latest releases, including The Witness, Inheritance, and Mind Games (2024), highlight her versatility in crafting captivating love stories and engrossing mysteries. Roberts’s ability to create vivid characters and immersive settings ensures her continued dominance in the literary world. Stephen KingStephen King remains a towering figure in the realm of horror and suspense. In 2024, King thrilled fans with You Like It Darker, a collection of chilling short stories, and announced his next novel, Never Flinch, set for release in May 2025. With a legacy that includes classics like The Shining and Carrie, King’s storytelling prowess continues to leave an indelible mark on readers.