20 Most Memorable Books I’ve Ever Read

If you are looking for a list of the most memorable books, this post is for you. As a book blogger, I have read many unforgettable books. These are novels that deliver the best reading experiences. The list includes unputdownable books , thriller books with twists, gripping historical fiction, and more. Perfect for any book club that loves gripping novels with memorable characters. These are also excellent choices for anyone looking to start a reading habit.

The Most Memorable Books

By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult

Jodi Picoult is known for her thought-provoking novels. I’ve read a few of her works, but By Any Other Name is the most memorable one. The story moves through two interconnected timelines. In the present, we follow Melina Green, who battles sexism in the theater world and submits her play under a male pseudonym. In Elizabethan England, we meet Emilia Bassano, who fights to break free from societal constraints. This novel beautifully combines historical fiction with contemporary struggles. I loved how well-researched it is and how it showcases the resilience of women. Emilia Bassano is one of the strongest female protagonists I’ve ever read.

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Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

Demon Copperhead is sad but powerful book. It’s a coming-of-age story about a boy born into poverty in the Appalachian Mountains. Demon’s life is a constant struggle, but his humor and determination make him a truly memorable protagonist. I loved the raw and visceral circumstances the author has portrayed. The story, characters, and plot make it a perfect pick for your next book club discussion.

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The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is about a fictional Hollywood legend Evelyn Hugo. A strong, ambitious woman who does whatever it takes to succeed. You’ll remember her as extremely determined and courageous. Reid’s writing is detailed and fast-paced. You’ll experience everything from Evelyn’s glamorous life to her messy marriages and heartbreaks. It’s also one of the must-read historical fiction . Also read my review of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.

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The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah

The Great Alone is about a family trying to survive in the wilds of Alaska. Ernt Allbright, a Vietnam veteran with mental health struggles, moves his family to Alaska for a fresh start. His 13-year-old daughter, Leni, hopes the move will bring a better life. But as winter arrives, Alaska’s isolation reflects her father’s worsening condition I absolutely loved the book, I really enjoyed the audio version. The narrator Julia Whelan was incredible. To me, this was one of Kristin Hannah most memorable novels.

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The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

The Dutch House is a family story that spans 50 years. It follows Danny and Maeve, siblings with a strong bond, who are forced out of their childhood home by their stepmother. As they try to move on, the house and their past keep pulling them back. There is so much sadness in the book. But also sweet, charming and uplifting moments.It explores how family, wealth, and loss shape who we are. It’s also one of the most memorable multi-generational dramas I have read.

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Me Before You by JoJo Moyes

Me Before You broke my heart in the best way. Louisa is an ordinary girl who becomes a caregiver for Will, a man who has lost hope. Their connection is both sweet and sad. There are so many heartbreaking moments in the book. It’s also why I loved this book. Lou grows so much as a person, and her journey is really inspiring. This is a book that will stay with you long after you finish it.

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Saving Noah by Lucinda Berry

Saving Noah is a powerful book that tells the story of Noah, a teenager who confesses to a terrible crime. His confession changes his life and his family’s forever. His mother, Adrianne, struggles to support him while facing the seriousness of his actions. But his father refuses to accept him. This was truly a heartbreaking novel. It was a memorable thriller that made me think from the perspective of families of those who are accused of crimes. This book will make you question your morals.

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Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

Project Hail Mary is the story of Ryland Grace, who wakes up alone on a spaceship, far from Earth, with no memory of who he is or why he’s there. His crewmates are dead, and slowly, his memories return. He realizes he’s on a mission to save humanity from extinction.This book has really good memorable plots and characters. It’s also one of the bestselling audiobooks I highly suggest you listen to in 2025.

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Beartown by Fredrik Backman

Beartown is set in a remote where hockey is more than just a sport, it’s a lifeline. The community’s hopes rest on the success of their junior team. But when a violent act occurs, the town is torn apart. This is a powerful, deeply empathetic novel that will stay with you for a long time.

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A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

Let me start by saying this is saddest book I have ever read. I don’t usually cry after reading, but A Little Life  had me in tears. I remember sitting for a long time, thinking about it, unable to believe I had finished the story. It’s truly an unforgettable novel. It follows the lives of four friends, with Jude as the main character. There’s so much to love about this book and so much to cry about. So please be aware, it’s not an easy read.

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Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

Where the Crawdads Sing is the story of Kya also known as the Marsh Girl. She is an orphan learns to live in the wild. She taught self the language of The Marsh. She connects deeply with the land and animals around her. I absolutely loved the writing. It is very descriptive and real. The story also includes a mystery about a local man’s death. What is truly unforgettable is Kya herself. This is also one of my favorite choice from Reese Witherspoon’s book club.

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The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

The Silent Patient follows Alicia, an artist, stops speaking after shooting her husband. Theo, a psychotherapist, is fascinated about her story and wants to find about the truth. You will love the twists in the book. I really loved the pace and short chapters. So if you love thrillers with shocking plot twists, you will love it. Also check out thrillers like The Silent Patient.

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Room by Emma Donoghue

Room tells the story of a young boy, Jack, and his Ma, who have been trapped in a small room for years. To five-year-old Jack, the Room is his whole world. This is a powerful I really loved. It’s about love, survival, and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child.

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Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

Elizabeth Zott is the protagonist of Lessons in Chemistry. She is a scientist who refuses to let the sexism of the 1960s hold her back. There is so much to love about her. She’s smart, determined, and above all unapologetically herself. We follow her journey as a lover, mother and a celebrity chef. It’s also another fabulous books I’ve read as a book blogger.

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The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

The Midnight Library is a great book that talk about “what-ifs” in their life. The protagonist Nora Seed is at her lowest point when she finds herself in a magical library filled with books. It lets her choose the life she wants. It’s definitely an uplifting book that leaves you feeling motivated and hopeful.

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Anxious People by Fredrik Backman

This book made me fall in love with Fredrik Backman’s writing. Anxious People is a fascinating blend of humor, romance, and drama. A failed bank robbery sets the stage, but the story is about so much more. It’s full of life, with people from all walks of life coming together. I also enjoyed the dialogues and witty commentary on so many topics. I’ve never read anything like this, which is why I think it’s one of the most memorable books. It’s also incredible as an audiobook.

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A Woman Is No Man by Etaf Rum

A Woman Is No Man tells the story of four generations of Palestinian-American women. It explores cultural expectations, abuse, and the fight to find one’s voice. It’s a truly phenomenal book. The writing feels so real. The story made me angry , sad and deeply moved. This book is very memorable because of its characters, plot, and powerful writing. It’s another remarkable multi-generational books you should read.

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Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau

You’ll remember Mary Jane  as a book full of color and a vibrant rock ‘n’ roll vibe. It’s one of the most immersive book I have ever read. Set in 1970s Baltimore, it’s about a 14-year-old girl Mary Jane, escaping her structured life while working as a nanny for a family. You’ll lover her innocence and honesty. She is sweet and lovable. By the end, I felt like I’d lived through her summer with her. One of the most feel-good books I’ve ever read. I also think it would a great audiobook for road trip.

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City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert

City of Girls is a story set in 1940s New York. I really enjoyed the world of glamour and drama. The heroine, Vivian is unapologetically bold and adventurous. The book follows her life as she goes through the highs and lows of her life. I absolutely loved larger than life characters. Gilbert’s writing is rich and poignant and really steamy. After watching her interview , I learned that she talked to real showgirls for her book. I also think she’s one of those under-the-radar authors you need to check it out.

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Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

Eleanor Oliphant is unlike any character you might’ve ever met. She follows a strict routine. Not so much into people. But underneath all lies a lot of pain. Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine follows her daily, mundane life. As she slowly begins to see a new world around her, she meets good people. There are so many laugh-out-loud moments and heart-wrenching revelations. I really loved this feel good book. Also, it’s one of the most memorable characters.

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