My Greek Books: Top picks of 2024
If you’ve followed me for a while, you know I’m on a mission to amplify the voices of writers of Greek descent and those who write about Greece. These books make up the bulk of my reading, and I read more than 50 books per year.
Many of the books I read and review I receive in advanced review copies, before they’re published or even finished. How lucky am I?!
I know how hard it is to write—and market—a book. And I have tremendous respect for those who bare their souls on the page. So I won’t call out any book as “best”.
All year long in ‘My Greek Books’ features, I’ve shared books I have read. I’ve truly enjoyed and do recommend them all. I could easily say they were all my favorites and move on. But people always ask, “What were the top books you read this year?” or “What books really left a lasting impression?”
So, I’ve compiled a list of some that have really stayed with me, in no particular order, with my reviews. They’re mostly novels, but also a poetry collection, a memoir, and a biography. You have no idea how incredibly hard it was to pick only 10. Click through the month link to read more about the authors and the books.
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My Greek Books 2024 Faves
Daughter of Ruins by Yvette Manessis Corporon (August)
Harper Muse (October 8, 2024)
Yvette Manessis Corporon delves into Greece’s rich history, mythology, culture, and traditions to shine a light on the experience of Greek women in the 1920s and 1950s. Daughter of Ruins is a riveting and inspiring tale about the power of friendship and ultimately, the power of women to change their own destinies. You won’t be able to put it down.
Buy it on Amazon
Matoula’s Echo by Richard Romanus (September)
Armida Publications; 2nd Revised ed. Edition (July 5, 2024)
Matoula’s Echo is a sweeping tale of war, family, loss, sacrifice, and the struggle to find our place in the world. I’m sad that Richard Romanus has passed away. He’s a skilled storyteller who painted a vivid picture of life in war torn Greece, and the new immigrant experience in the US. Add this one to your list.
Buy it on Bookshop
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At Any Cost: Chief Inspector Andreas Kaldis Mystery Series Book 13 by Jeffrey Siger (March)
Severn House (February 6, 2024)
Book 13 in the Chief Inspector Andreas Kaldis Mystery Series does not disappoint. This time, Jeffrey Siger tackles contemporary topics like AI, Metaverse, and Big Tech. He takes us to Syros for this brand-new adventure, reuniting us with our old friend, Andreas, who always fights for what’s right—no matter what. We also meet more of his extended family, who become embroiled in the investigation. There were more twists in there than I expected! I’ve read and reviewed all of Jeff’s books, and every time I say the same thing—and it holds true this time: the only bad thing is that I have to wait another year for a new book. Don’t miss At Any Cost. It’s a fast-paced, intriguing story that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Buy it on Amazon
Thirty-eight Days of Rain by Eva Asprakis (May)
Independently published (March 08, 2024)
This is the first book I’ve read by Eva Asprakis, and certainly will not be the last. Thirty-eight Days of Rain is a compelling story about where we fit in the world, and how that influences who we are and the decisions that we make. I loved her prose and the way she gave so much dimension to Androulla as she figures out her life path, truly becoming an adult. I couldn’t wait to find out how it came together and read it in two days. I’m looking forward to more from this author.
Buy it on Bookshop
Oriana: A Novel of Oriana Fallaci by Anastasia Rubis (March)
Delphinium Books (March 19, 2024)
Prior to this book, I did not know of Oriana Fallaci, even though she was known as a master interviewer and broke through the proverbial glass ceiling to be among the best in her field. After reading, I researched Oriana, viewed her photos and interview clips. In this stunning debut novel, Anastasia Rubis skillfully captured the essence of Oriana. I envisioned her just as she was. Women will identify with Oriana’s reflections on life. Now I want to read Oriana’s books and Panagoulis’ poetry. Oriana is a true role model, not just for journalists, but for women in general. While she was well-known around the world, she is little known in the US. But with this brilliant biographical novel, that’s about to change. Oriana: A Novel of Oriana Fallaci is a must read.
Buy it on Amazon
Young Conquerors: A Novel of Hephaestion and Alexandros by Christopher Cosmos (October)
Peninsula (September 10, 2024)
Young Conquerors is the fascinating story of Alexander the Great’s younger years and what shaped him. Christopher Cosmos adeptly combines his passion for history and myth to bring this story to life. Taking us back to Ancient Greece with a cast of characters the likes of Philip of Macedon, Aristotle, Demosthenes, and more; this epic novel is a cinematic tale ripe for the big screen. Add it to your list.
Buy it on Amazon
Repacking for Greece: A Mediterranean Odyssey by Sally Jane Smith (April)
Journeys in Pages (April 20, 2024)
Sally Jane Smith takes us along on her return to Greece. Her descriptions are so vivid, I traveled right alongside her. During her travels, she experienced so many incidences of serendipity, and the synchronicities she encountered are nothing short of amazing. I love how she ties in contemporary literature, connecting the stories to their settings and the rich history of the area. While her first book was about finding herself, in Repacking for Greece, she truly blossoms.
Buy it on Amazon
Esemplastic: Many and One by Karian Markos (September)
Highland Park Poetry Press (August 1, 2024)
Karian Markos’ lush language and vivid imagery take us on a flight into her diverse worlds, provoking thought and reflection into our own. Esemplastic: Many and One is a gorgeous collection of poetry that is not to be missed.
Buy it on Amazon
Last Days in Plaka by Henriette Lazaridis (August)
Pegasus Books (April 9, 2024)
I brought this book to Greece and began to read it in the Plaka! In Last Days of Plaka, Henriette Lazaridis reveals a study of contrasts—Athens in classic and modern wonder, of truth and lies, of young and old. You’ll feel her love for this city, with all its layers and contradictions. It’s a story that will challenge your notions of faith and forgiveness and the world outside our bubbles, as well as our place in it. Add it to your list.
Buy it on Bookshop
I Ain’t Afraid: The World of Lulu Bell Parr, Wild West Cowgirl by Diane Helentjaris (October)
Alkira Publishing (August 16, 2024)
Though I knew of Annie Oakley, I’d never heard of Lulu Bell Parr. She was a pioneer, as many women didn’t (or weren’t allowed) to do what she did. She drew countless spectators to the Wild West shows and paved the way for women entertainers in her field. As Diane and I are both members of Hellenic Writers Group of Washington DC, I had the privilege to read the book as she wrote it. In her skillful hands, Lulu’s story came to life. We all fell in love with Lulu and she became an honorary member of the group. We couldn’t wait to read more. I enjoyed it so much that I was sad when the story ended. Pick up a copy. You’ll fall in love with Lulu, too.
Buy it on Amazon
Wrapping up My Greek Books for 2024
I really struggled to compile this list. I actually thought of making it a top 20 or having honorable mentions, but space does not allow. So do take a look back through my blog to discover the amazing books I’ve had a privilege to read and write about. You can also follow my literary column in NEO Magazine, called ‘Mnemosyni’s Musings’ (named after the goddess of storytelling!) for more book suggestions. I do round ups and some interviews there, too.
My reading list for 2025 is getting so tall it’s about to topple over, LOL. I can’t wait to dive in! What will I read next? Stay tuned to find out.
Looking forward to more amazing My Greek Books in 2025. Happy New Year!
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Read more:
My Greek Books: Top 10 Reads of 2023
Singing Ghosts of Christmas Past
