As the year winds down, it’s a great time to look back on some of the year’s most memorable reads. From exciting adventures and imaginative worlds to thought-provoking nonfiction, this year’s books have something for everyone.
Fiction fans have enjoyed stories filled with suspense, richly developed fantasy settings, and characters who stay with you long after the final page. Nonfiction has offered new insights into leadership, creativity, and navigating life’s challenges, combining practical advice with inspiring stories.
Whether you’re looking to escape into another world or gain a fresh perspective on this one, these recommendations from The Denver Group team are a great way to wrap up the year.
Let’s take a look at the books that inspired us in 2024!
Get lost in worlds beyond your wildest dreams with our exciting fiction options:
Crouch, Blake. Dark Matter. Crown, 2016.
Dark Matter by Blake Crouch
“My favorite book this year was Dark Matter by Blake Crouch. It was a really fast, easy, but thrilling read!” -JP Hachey, Broker Associate
A gripping sci-fi thriller that challenges everything you know about reality and choice. Jason Dessen’s ordinary life is upended when he’s abducted and wakes up in a world where everything he loves has vanished—but his greatest achievements remain. As he unravels the truth, Jason must confront a dizzying mystery that spans multiple realities. Fast-paced and thought-provoking, this story will leave you questioning what matters most in life.
Brown, Pierce. Red Rising Trilogy. Del Rey, 2014-2016.
Red Rising, Golden Son and Morning Star by Pierce Brown
“I liked this book because it was a fun sci-fi read, with hunger game vibes!” – Jason Dalbey, Team Leader/Real Estate Broker
The Red Rising Trilogy by Pierce Brown is a thrilling sci-fi epic set on a future Mars, where society is divided into color-coded classes. The story follows Darrow, a lowly "Red" miner, who infiltrates the ruling "Gold" class to seek revenge after his wife is killed by the elite. As Darrow ascends through the ranks, he discovers the brutal politics, treachery, and warfare that define this dystopian world. Packed with intense action, high-stakes battles, and twists that will leave you breathless, this series is a rollercoaster ride of power, betrayal, and revolution.
Rekulak, Jason. Hidden Pictures. Simon & Schuster, 2022.
Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak
“It was a spooky thriller with all sorts of twists and turns!” – Amy Coloccia, Broker Associate
A spine-tingling psychological thriller that blends suspense with mystery. The story follows Mallory, a young woman hired as a nanny for a wealthy family. When she begins to notice strange drawings appearing in the sketchbook of the young boy she’s caring for, she uncovers eerie and unsettling images that seem to depict real-life events—events that haven’t happened yet. As Mallory digs deeper, she’s drawn into a chilling mystery where nothing is as it seems, and the line between imagination and reality begins to blur. Gripping and full of twists, this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Hoover, Colleen. Verity. Hoover Ink, 2018.
Verity by Collen Hoover
A dark, captivating psychological thriller that will keep you hooked from the first page. The story follows Lowen, a struggling writer who’s hired to finish a famous author’s book series after an accident leaves Verity, the author, unable to write. While going through Verity’s notes, Lowen discovers a manuscript revealing chilling secrets about Verity’s past, including disturbing confessions about her family. As Lowen becomes more entwined in the mystery, she’s forced to confront dangerous truths that blur the line between fiction and reality. Full of twists, suspense, and shocking revelations, Verity is a rollercoaster ride you won’t be able to put down.
Lynch, Scott. The Lies of Locke Lamora. Bantam Spectra, 2006.
The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch
“Amazing fantasy heist with fun characters and great villains.” – Jason Dalbey, Team Leader/Real Estate Broker
This dazzling fantasy adventure is packed with intrigue, humor, and unforgettable characters. Set in the vibrant city of Camorr, the story follows Locke Lamora, an orphan turned master con artist, and leader of the infamous Gentlemen Bastards. Locke and his crew execute daring heists against the city's wealthiest, but when they find themselves entangled in a deadly power struggle with a ruthless crime lord, their cleverness is tested like never before. With razor-sharp wit, intricate plots, and high-stakes twists, this tale of deception and loyalty is a must-read for fantasy lovers.
Sanderson, Brandon. Mistborn: The Final Empire. Tor Books, 2006.
Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson
“Timeless fantasy with great world building. Definitely a Brandon Sanderson classic.” – Jason Dalbey, Team Leader/Real Estate Broker
This is a masterful tale of rebellion, magic, and redemption. In a world where ash falls from the sky and the oppressed live under the rule of a godlike tyrant, a young street thief named Vin discovers she has the rare powers of a Mistborn—a magic user capable of manipulating metals to perform extraordinary feats. Teaming up with a charismatic rebel leader, Vin joins a daring plot to overthrow the immortal Lord Ruler and free her world. With intricate world-building, a unique magic system, and unforgettable twists, this epic fantasy is a must-read for fans of adventure and intrigue.
Hoover, Colleen. It Ends With Us. Atria Books, 2016.
It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover
"I didn't want to put this book down. The tension between the characters kept me wanting more. I enjoyed the back-and-forth between the past and present, and the ending was a pleasant surprise." Melissa, Director of Operations
A powerful and emotional romance that explores the complexities of love, abuse, and resilience. Lily Bloom, a young woman trying to move forward after a difficult past, falls for Ryle Kincaid, a charming neurosurgeon. However, as their relationship deepens, Lily discovers troubling aspects of Ryle’s character, forcing her to confront her past and make heart-wrenching decisions about her future. With raw emotion and unflinching honesty, this novel is a poignant exploration of what it means to break the cycle of pain and choose self-worth.
Hoover, Colleen. It Starts With Us. Atria Books, 2022.
It Starts with Us by Colleen Hoover
This emotional follow-up, the highly anticipated sequel to It Ends With US, explores the evolving love story between Lily Bloom and Atlas Corrigan. As Lily navigates the challenges of rebuilding her life after a painful past, her connection with Atlas deepens, bringing both joy and new obstacles. The book delves into themes of healing, second chances, and the power of love to overcome past trauma. Filled with heartfelt moments and gripping drama, It Starts With Us is a compelling continuation of Lily and Atlas’s journey toward happiness.
Discover the power of true stories with our nonfiction picks—because reality inspires like nothing else!
Doran, Dan. Passive Prospecting. Independently published, 2020.
Passive Prospecting by Dan Doran
“Easy read about YouTube marketing.” - Jason Dalbey, Team Leader/Real Estate Broker
An insightful and practical guide to mastering YouTube marketing without the need for aggressive sales tactics. Doran outlines how businesses can build lasting relationships and attract leads through authentic, value-driven content. With actionable tips and a focus on consistency and strategy, this book shows how to leverage YouTube to grow your brand and engage with potential clients in a natural, non-pushy way. Perfect for entrepreneurs and marketers looking to make the most of digital platforms with minimal effort.
Isaacson, Walter. Elon Musk. Simon & Schuster, 2023.
Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson
“Captivating read. Fascinating personality.” - Jason Dalbey, Team Leader/Real Estate Broker
This in-depth and riveting biography is of the billionaire entrepreneur who revolutionized industries from electric vehicles to space travel. Based on exclusive access to Musk, his family, friends, and colleagues, Isaacson delves into Musk’s fascinating life—his visionary ideas, turbulent personality, and relentless pursuit of ambitious goals. The biography covers Musk’s ventures with Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and beyond, highlighting his extraordinary ability to reshape the future while navigating immense challenges. This book offers a complex, honest portrayal of a man whose ambition may change the world forever.
Voss, Chris. Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It. Harper Business, 2016.
Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It by Chris Voss
“Best book on negotiating from a former CIA hostage negotiator.” -Jason Dalbey, Team Leader/Real Estate Broker
An eye-opening guide to mastering the art of negotiation, based on the author’s experience as a former FBI hostage negotiator. Voss shares powerful techniques and strategies that go far beyond the typical business negotiation tactics, offering practical advice on how to influence and persuade in high-stakes situations. With engaging real-life examples, the book shows how psychological insight and tactical empathy can help you navigate both everyday and life-or-death negotiations. A must-read for anyone looking to sharpen their negotiation skills.
Guidara, Will. Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect. Penguin Press, 2022.
Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara
“Fun book about the top restaurant in the world and how they went above and beyond for their customers.” -Jason Dalbey, Team Leader/Real Estate Broker
An inspiring book that explores how going above and beyond in customer service can transform a business and create lifelong loyalty. Guidara, a renowned restaurateur, shares his philosophy of "unreasonable hospitality"—creating unforgettable experiences for customers by providing exceptional, personalized service that exceeds expectations. Filled with heartwarming stories and practical insights, this book offers a fresh perspective on customer service, making it a must-read for anyone in hospitality or looking to make a lasting impact in their business.
Grann, David. The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny, and Murder. Doubleday, 2023.
The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny, and Murder by David Grann
“It was just an unbelievable story of survival and what humans are actually capable of.” -Jake, Real Estate Broker
A gripping historical narrative that takes readers on a thrilling journey through one of the most harrowing maritime stories of the 18th century. The book recounts the tale of the British ship Wager, which was shipwrecked off the coast of South America, leading to mutiny, survival, and a desperate struggle for life. Grann delves deep into the lives of the crew members, exploring their courage, morality, and the brutal choices they faced. With masterful storytelling, The Wager is a compelling exploration of survival, betrayal, and the human spirit.
Kendall, Larry. Ninja Selling: Subtle Skills. Big Results. Ninja Selling, 2019.
Ninja Selling: Subtle Skills. Big Results. by Larry Kendall
A powerful guide that transforms the way real estate professionals approach sales. The book introduces the Ninja Selling system, a strategy based on building relationships, listening closely, and providing exceptional value, rather than relying on traditional, pushy sales tactics. With practical exercises and real-world examples, Kendall teaches readers how to use their skills to create genuine connections with clients, leading to long-term success and growth. Whether you're new to real estate or a seasoned pro, Ninja Selling provides the tools to increase your sales while maintaining integrity and building trust.
Strayed, Cheryl. Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice on Love and Life from Dear Sugar. Knopf, 2022.
Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed
“I read this sporadically throughout the year as it's actually responses to an advice column and don't think it was written to read cover to cover. The stories ranged from devastating to heartwarming but her responses were so good, honest, hilarious and sad. Not every story hits but she definitely sheds some light on the struggles in parenting, grief, relationships and love.” -Amy B., Real Estate Broker
A heartfelt collection of advice and wisdom from Strayed’s beloved "Dear Sugar" column. With candid, compassionate responses, Strayed addresses a wide range of life’s most challenging questions, offering guidance on love, loss, relationships, and self-discovery. Her thoughtful and sometimes tough-love approach resonates with readers, providing comfort and clarity in times of struggle. Filled with Strayed’s signature empathy and insight, this book is a powerful reminder of the beauty and complexity of life’s journey.
What was your favorite book of the year? We'd love to hear about it and add it to our list of 2025 reads!
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