2024 Reads | Tawni's Book Nook - A Year of Romance & Reflection

March 18, 2025

2024 Reads | Tawni’s Book Nook

Welcome to 2024 Reads | Tawni’s Book Nook! 2024 was an incredible year for my reading journey in 2024 Reads | Tawni’s Book Nook! I picked up my first book in March and couldn’t put them down. From swoon-worthy romances to thought-provoking fiction, I read a total of 14 books, spanning 3,486 pages. I laughed, cried, and fell in love with countless characters along the way. Read my first Book Nook post to learn why I started this series. In 2024 Reads | Tawni’s Book Nook, I explored a variety of genres and unforgettable stories.

My shortest read was All By My Elf by Olivia Dad at just 55 pages, while my longest read was The Viscount Who Loved Me by Julia Quinn, totaling 480 pages. My average book length for 2024 was 249 pages, and I’m not shy about it—I’m a pretty generous rater with an average rating of 4.5 stars. Let’s be honest, if a book makes me swoon or cry, it’s getting five stars!

Most of the books I read were part of a series, but a few stand-alone gems made their way to my shelf as well. Here’s a look at all the books I read in 2024 along with my mini-reviews and ratings for each. 2024 Reads | Tawni’s Book Nook is your guide to my year of reading adventures. I’ll do my best to keep things spoiler-free, but just a heads up—there may be a few light spoilers ahead.

2025 Reads | Tawni's Book Nook: Goodreads 2024 summary for Tawni Perry, showing 3,486 pages read and 14 books completed, with a calendar and stacked books illustration. — Screenshot

2024 Reading Stats & Highlights

Total Books Read: 14
Total Pages Read: 3,486
Shortest Book: All By My Elf by Olivia Dad (55 pages)
Longest Book: The Viscount Who Loved Me by Julia Quinn (480 pages)
Average Book Length: 249 pages
Average Rating: 4.5 Stars
Most Books in a Series: Bridgertons and Under The Mistletoe Collection

2025 Reads | Tawni's Book Nook: A collage of 14 books read in 2024 by Tawni Perry, including The Duke and I, It Ends With Us, Queen Charlotte, and Cruel Winter With You. — Screenshot

Mini Reviews & Ratings

The Duke and I by Julia Quinn (Bridgertons #1)

I loved this book! It was beautiful, educational, and captivating. I’m glad the Netflix series followed the book pretty well. I fell in love with Daphne and Simon’s story—the perfect blend of romance, humor, and drama. If you’re a fan of Regency romance, this is a must-read! (5 Stars)

The Viscount Who Loved Me by Julia Quinn (Bridgertons #2)

Omg, this book was so good! I loved the chemistry between Kate and Anthony. The ultimate enemies-to-lovers story! I just wish the Netflix series followed this book more closely, as there were so many differences when comparing book to screen. Nevertheless, the book was definitely better. A perfect balance of humor, rivalry, and heart-fluttering romance. (5 Stars)

It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover (It Ends with Us #1)

I LOVED this book. I wanted to read this book before the movie came out, and I did successfully! It was a beautiful read—raw, emotional, and inspiring. Lily’s journey of strength and self-love was beautifully portrayed. Colleen Hoover truly knows how to pull on the heartstrings. (5 Stars)

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story by Julia Quinn & Shonda Rhimes (Bridgertons)

This book was phenomenal and nearly identical to the Netflix series. I really appreciated the further insights into the Brimsley and Reynolds story. The Netflix series did add additional Bridgerton context which wasn’t in this book, but I preferred it that way. This was THE ULTIMATE LOVE STORY! (5 Stars)

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

I definitely did not expect this book to hit me so hard when I first read it. Suicide in the beginning of the book definitely made me feel some sort of way, but as I kept reading, it definitely got better. The ending wasn’t exactly what I had hoped for, but as you continue reading, you learn the lesson being taught and I ended up appreciating it. A thought-provoking read on life’s choices and the impact of our regrets. (4 Stars)

First Down by Grace Reilly (Beyond the Play #1)

I loved this read! The plot and romance were so good. Definitely a feel-good read with sexy romance. I loved this book so much that I ended up buying the entire series. It was fun, flirty, and full of swoon-worthy moments. If you love sports romances, you’ll definitely enjoy this one! (5 Stars)

Love At First Spite by Anna E. Collins

This book was recommended to me by a friend and omg I loved it! Romance with a side of unhealthy revenge. You would totally think this isn’t a healthy read but as you keep reading, you just fall in love with the concept. There was even a small side of thrill and suspense. I read this book so fast and highly recommend it! A fun and unconventional romance that keeps you hooked until the very end. (5 Stars)

In The Picture by Ellie Blackbourne

This wasn’t a great read in my opinion. There were so many grammatical errors that it made the book challenging to read as I had to go back numerous times to make sure I read the sentences properly. I found it interesting to showcase an autistic girl but the character overall was negative and a little weird. There was no identifiable plot. I thought I was reading about a driven and motivated girl competing in a photography competition with romance enhancing the story but instead it was all about a boy and girl confessing love for each other. I love romance, but the competition side of the story was completely deterred. The potential was there, but the execution fell short. (3 Stars)

It Starts With Us by Colleen Hoover (It Ends with Us #2)

Omg! I loved this book! Not only did I love “It Ends With Us” but “It Starts With Us” was the perfect sequel we needed. The unconditional love between Atlas and Lily is remarkable. Lily and Atlas both deserved their happy ending. I really hope this book becomes a movie with both Blake Lively and Brandon Sklenar returning as Lily and Atlas. Picturing them in each scene was so beautiful and I could not stop crying and smiling. I hope I find an Atlas in my future. (5 Stars)

Cruel Winter With You by Ali Hazelwood (Under The Mistletoe Collection #1)

This was a cute little read. Friends to lovers, enemies to lovers—whichever you choose, this was a cute story. Growing up with a best friend and falling in love with their brother is the cutest. You have the playful teasing and it reminds me of what my Mom always said, “Boys who tease you just means they like you.” I guess that means all the boys in school liked me then. Cute, light-hearted, and filled with holiday charm. (5 Stars)

Merry Ever After by Tessa Bailey (Under The Mistletoe Collection #2)

This book was okay. It did not have any slow burn moments or meaningful context for the main characters. The story jumped way too quickly into the lust and romance, which I loved, but I just wish there was more substance to the characters. It was a fun holiday read but lacked depth. (4 Stars)

All By My Elf by Olivia Dade (Under The Mistletoe Collection #3)

What did I just read!? This story felt like a run-on sentence. There were no chapter breaks, and the story just kept going but it didn’t make sense. The main characters are working towards their PhD at Dogwood University (not a dog training university, despite the name), which confused me. They have a side job working for a mobile dog food service, and the vehicle they drive must be shaped like a wiener dog because they like to refer to it as a penis. I have no idea what I read, and this book was not exciting to read at all.

The beginning was chaotic, and I didn’t understand what was going on until they finally focused on the two romantic leads, who were not romantic or even cutesy in any way. Also, this book was in the 3rd person POV, which made it hard for me to connect. I prefer romance in the 1st person POV to feel more immersed in the story. (2 Stars)

Merriment And Mayhem by Alexandria Bellefleur (Under The Mistletoe Collection #4)

Omg, I loved this book! It was romantic, beautiful, and HOT! The story had a beautiful slow burn and an excellent plot for even a second book! I highly recommend this steamy read for anyone who loves a well-written holiday romance with depth and passion. (5 Stars)

Only Santas In The Building by Alexis Daria (Under The Mistletoe Collection #5)

Aww, I loved this book. It was super cute and definitely relatable! The characters were fun, the romance was sweet, and it had just the right amount of holiday cheer. I highly recommend this short story to get you in the festive spirit! (5 Stars)

My Love for Romance Novels

I have always been a hopeless romantic, and 2024 was the year of swoon-worthy love stories. From enemies-to-lovers to friends-to-lovers, each romance novel brought its own charm and magic. Whether it was the Bridgerton series’ historical romance or contemporary love stories with modern twists, every book left me smiling, laughing, or crying (sometimes all three!). I can’t wait to dive into even more romance novels in 2025!

Least Favorite: All By My Elf. I struggled with the chaotic writing style and couldn’t connect with the characters.

2025 Reads So Far

One Day In December by Josie Silver

Omg! I loved this story so much. There are moments where you want to root for the main characters, but then life unexpectedly takes another turn and you’re happy for the change. I loved how this book takes the reader through a journey of friendship, love, relationships, grief, and loss. It makes you wonder about the idea of “fate” and trusting your gut when things in life happen. I cried, smiled, laughed, and admired during this entire read. Highly recommend! (5 Stars)

An Offer From A Gentleman by Julia Quinn (Bridgertons #3)

Omg, I loved this book! I could not put it down. A page-turner indeed! This read was definitely a magical Cinderella story! I loved the banter between Benedict and Sophie, aside from his constant begging. And the family bonds between the Bridgertons and Sophie were so endearing. This story had me crying, laughing, and smiling. I cannot wait to watch Season 4!

Side note, the Colin scenes with/regarding Penelope had me in tears and I’m prepared to read my favorite couple next! Team Polin! (5 Stars)

Romancing Mister Bridgerton by Julia Quinn (Bridgertons #4)

POLIN FOREVER. This is, without a doubt, my favorite book in the entire Bridgerton series so far! Now, don’t hate me—but I watched Season 3 before reading Romancing Mister Bridgerton, and I absolutely love how both tell the same story in their own unique way.

The show gave Penelope the space to truly embrace herself as a woman, while the book allowed Colin to grow beyond just being “a Bridgerton”—both journeys were beautifully crafted. I adored every moment in the book, the good, the bad, and the heart-wrenching. Comparing the two has been such a joy because, even though they share the same foundation, each version captivates the story so differently. Both are perfection in their own right!

Colin “My Wife” Bridgerton and Penelope will forever have my heart. (5 Stars)

2025 Reads | Tawni's Book Nook - Goodreads shelf showing books read: Romancing Mister Bridgerton and An Offer From a Gentleman by Julia Quinn, and One Day in December by Josie Silver.

Looking Forward to 2025 Reads | Tawni’s Book Nook

Reflecting on my 2024 reads, I’m so grateful for all the wonderful stories that filled my year with love, laughter, and a few tears. I’m so grateful for all the wonderful stories that filled my year with love, laughter, and a few tears. I can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store! I kicked off the year with Icebreaker by Hannah Grace and am already excited to share my thoughts with you all. I’m also excited to explore new genres, dive into more romance novels, and discover unexpected favorites along the way. Who knows what bookish adventures 2025 will bring! If you want to follow my reading journey in real-time or see what’s on my TBR list, feel free to connect with me on Goodreads. I’d love to see what you’re reading too!

What were your favorite reads of 2024? Drop your recommendations below!

Next up in Tawni’s Book Nook: That’s Not My Name by Megan Lally—because it’s time to see if I can handle the suspense!

tawnijanine