10 Long Books That Will Keep You Entertained for Hours (or Days!): Our Title Recommendations

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There’s nothing like getting lost in a long book. No matter the genre, from historical fiction to fantasy, romance and more, a book over 500 pages gives you the chance to immerse yourself in stories with richly drawn characters, intriguing plots, detailed settings and more. These novels may seem intimidating because of their high page count, but the stories are sure to entertain. So whether you’re looking for a book to capture your attention for a long weekend, an upcoming vacation or simply want a compelling read, we’ve got a recommendation for you. 

We’ve gathered up books that are chunkier than average in a variety of genres. Coming in with high page counts, these reads should keep you busy for a bit! If you’re looking for emotional historical fiction, try The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. And when you need something light and sweet, Rock Bottom Girl by Lucy Score checks all the boxes. Keep scrolling for the full list of long books that pack a punch. Happy reading!

‘The Goldfinch’ by Donna Tartt 771 pages

Set among the glitz and glamour of New York City combined with the gritty art scene, The Goldfinch will easily pull you in. Theo Decker is a grieving 13-year-old New Yorker who survives an explosion in a museum that took his mother’s life. With no father in the picture, Theo is taken in by a wealthy family, where he feels out of place and longs for his mother. He ultimately stays connected to her through a small, captivating painting, which draws him into the NYC art scene. As an adult he works at an antiques store, but suddenly is the front and center of a dangerous circle.

What readers are saying: “Donna Tartt’s writing style is brilliant, the words just seem to flow off the page and it’s so easy to picture what’s going on. Her characters are amazing, and to me, that’s what makes her books so great. This book is incredible!”

‘Cloud Cuckoo Land’ by Anthony Doerr 626 pages

This captivating, richly drawn novel first takes readers to 15th-century Constantinople, where orphan Anna discovers the story of Aethon, who longs to be a bird so he can fly to paradise. In present-day Idaho, Zeno puts on a play adaptation of Aethon’s story. Next, on a spaceship decades from now, Konstance writes down the tale of Aethon to preserve it. The past, present and future collide in this saga told from multiple perspectives.

What readers are saying: “I have never quite read anything as beautiful and as artfully constructed as Cloud Cuckoo Land. With its interwoven tapestry of a story, the tale moves from one century to another and back again.”

‘Rock Bottom Girl’ by Lucy Score 512 pages

Just when 38-year-old Marlee thinks she can’t get lower in life, she finds herself single, broke and moving back into her childhood home with her parents. Not much has changed in the town of Culpepper, but when Marley is desperate for a new start she accepts a temporary teaching position at her former high school. Can she keep the soccer team from killing each other? Maybe, only with the help of Jake Weston — high school bad boy turned dreamy good guy. When the two end up fake dating to help each other out at school, will their fake feelings turn into a real relationship?

What readers are saying: “I loved this book! Marley and Jake were so cute. They helped each other grow into the best versions of themselves and I liked how it was all about redemption and second chances. The small-town setting was so well done, the camaraderie was fantastic and it was so nice to see Marley becoming a role model for all the soccer girls. I liked the humor in this too and the idea that your life doesn't have to go according to some plan. Overall, top-tier romance!”

‘House of Earth and Blood’ by Sarah J. Maas 803 pages

With unforgettable characters, sizzling romance and page-turning suspense, the first installment of the Crescent City fantasy series has it all. After her closest friends are murdered by a demon, Bryce Quinlan teams up with a powerful fallen angel, Hunt Athalar, to track down the killer. Together, the two discover an even darker power that threatens everyone they hold dear...and a love that can offer them both redemption. 

What readers are saying: “I’ve read this book twice, both times in one sitting because it’s such a page-turner! Besides the interesting and exciting cast of characters, I absolutely love this new world Maas has created. The combination of the urban and fantastical setting was so well done. I also love how real and emotional this book is. Crescent City kept me on my toes, there was tons of action and intrigue and twists left and right!”

‘The Book Thief’ by Markus Zusak 550 pages

Set in Nazi Germany in 1939, this long novel dives into powerful emotions and the impact books have on people. Meet Liesel Meminger, a foster girl living outside of Munich, who survives by stealing books. With her foster father’s help she learns to read and soon shares her stolen books with the neighbors during raids and bombings. Liesel also brings books to the Jewish man hiding in her basement and has to hope she doesn’t get caught along the way.

What readers are saying: “The Book Thief  is one of the best novels I have read. Truly! Author Markus Zusak's storyline is both sad and wonderful, as it deals with Germany during WWII and the Holocaust. His memorable characters have tremendous depth, and the plot is extremely original. However, what makes this book so extraordinary is the author's writing, which, at times, is more poetry than prose. I frequently found myself reading passages of the elegantly written narrative aloud.”

‘Little Women’ by Louisa May Alcott 528 pages

Alcott’s most popular novel is a fictional journey based around her early life. Although their father is away at the war and money is tight, sisters Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy keep their spirits up by writing, staging plays and daydreaming. With their mother working to support the family, the girls must rely on one another to get through the tough times. While doing their best to distract themselves, they can’t help but wonder if their father will return home safely.

What readers are saying: “I love books where I can see myself represented in the main character,” shares Carissa Mosness, Woman’s World Assistant Digital Editor. “And Little Women is one of those. Every page had me wanting more and to this day it is one of my favorite books.”

‘The Movement’ by Clara Bingham 576 pages

The Movement is the first oral history of the decade that built the modern feminist movement. This page-turning history book tells the inside story of women who were at the forefront of the feminist wave and how they demanded freedom for who they wanted to be. Bingham weaves together narratives of various women and brings this revolution to life. 

What readers are saying: “It has been a long time since I finished a book this quickly... every page had me completely drawn in, interested and excited to learn more. There could not be a more impactful time for a book like this to have hit the shelves, and I am really grateful that the women of America have the opportunity to indulge in such a well-researched, beautifully narrated and wildly interesting read heading into this election year. Brilliantly done, Clara!”

‘The Good Daughter’ by Karin Slaughter 515 pages

Cold-case thriller meets psychological suspense in this novel from Karin Slaughter, the bestselling author of the Will Trent series. Flashback to 28 years ago when Charlotte (Charlie) and Samantha Quinn’s lives were forever changed by an attack on their family home that left their mother dead. Now, Charlie is a lawyer and is plunged into new trauma that brings up memories of the night she tried so hard to forget. But the truth of the crime that tore apart her family won’t stay hidden forever.

What readers are saying: “This was my first book by the author and I am stunned by her talent! Her story, characters, command of words & unique way of delivering- wow… just wow! This plot will keep you guessing right to the end! I highly recommend this novel!”

‘The Covenant of Water’ by Abraham Verghese 724 pages

The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese follows three generations of an Indian Malayali Christian family who are afflicted by a mysterious disorder. This disorder, referred to as “The Condition,” causes at least one family member in each generation to die by drowning. The narrative follows the life and losses of Big Ammachi — a 12-year-old bride who becomes the family’s matriarch. Her story is woven with tales from two doctors who join the Indian Medical Services — perspectives inspired by Verghese, who is a physician himself. The Covenant of Water tackles family, tradition, legacy, grief, love and sacrifice themes.  

What readers are saying: “"In a book entrenched in rich cultural details, Verghese’s descriptive writing shines and therefore illuminates your path as a reader to not only understand but feel each character’s experiences and pain,” says Sienna Sullivan, Woman’s World Editorial Assistant. 

‘All Rhodes Lead Here’ by Mariana Zapata 608 pages

When Aurora returns to her hometown in Colorado after a breakup, she’s forced to confront her past. She doesn’t expect to form a bond with her grumpy landlord and his son across the driveway — but she might be the one to crack open Tobias Rhodes’ heart.

What readers are saying: “I’m not an outdoorsy person,” admits Raquel Lekic, Woman’s World Assistant Editor. “But this Colorado-set story had me wanting to lace up a pair of hiking boots!” Says Raquel, “Seeing how the romantic relationship between Aurora and Tobias gradually progressed made for a fun, swoony read.”

For more books to add to your TBR:

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