How is it time for the Best Books of 2023 already? The year whizzed by in a flurry of activity, and I found that I had less time to read than normal. For the first time ever I was in danger of not meeting my reading goal, but I made it at the final hour! To be fair though, I choose to read some very long books. 60 books and 24,040 pages read. Here are ten books published in 2023 that I most enjoyed, in no particular order.
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Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros Divergent meets Harry Potter in Fourth Wing—a heartstopping, epic fantasy romance set in a war college for students willing to die for the chance to be dragon riders. It’s entirely consuming, and even at over 600 pages in length, I did not want to put it down. |
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Happy Place by Emily Henry Happy Place is summer encapsulated in book form, and it had me reaching for my sunscreen, flip flops, and ice cream. Based in Maine, the story is a breath of fresh New England air that reads like a nostalgic love letter to a place that holds magical memories for the main characters. |
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Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood I thought I’d had my fill of Ali Hazelwood’s women in STEM romances, but apparently I was wrong because Love, Theoretically knocked me off my feet. I enjoyed this slow burn romance from beginning to end—far more than I anticipated. The audiobook is outstanding, with superb narration from Thérèse Plummer. |
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Spare by Prince Harry Spare is a poignant, fascinating, exceedingly well-written memoir. Prince Harry offers an intimate account of his decades-long struggle with grief following the death of his mother, as well his search for purpose as someone other than the spare to brother Prince William’s heir. I can’t recommend the audiobook highly enough. It boasts masterful narration by Prince Harry. He is one of the best narrators I’ve ever heard. |
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The Right Move by Liz Tomforde Some angst mixed with humor is my cup of tea, and The Right Move is a grumpy-sunshine romance that hit the right spot. I was pleasantly surprised by this story. The diversity, the male vulnerability, and the self-awareness were a breath of fresh air. |
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Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez Abby Jimenez’s books have a perfect track record with me so far, and Yours Truly is another heartfelt feather in her literary cap. As someone who suffers from an anxiety disorder, I appreciated the realistic and compassionate way in which mental health is presented. Each emotional, tender, and funny moment was a sheer delight to read. |
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A Long Time Coming A Long Time Coming is not just my favorite Cane Brothers book, but–dare I say–my favorite Meghan Quinn book so far, hands down. I got hearts in my eyes, a swoony sway to my body, and a massive smile on my lips to prove it. Read Review
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Before Us by Jewel E. Ann Before Us proves once again that Jewel E. Ann is Queen of the Feels. Evidently, one romance wasn’t enough for her. Instead, there are two completely different but just as breathtaking love stories that entranced me with their tenderness. I felt every single emotion known to man in this gorgeous story. I couldn’t put it down. |
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Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood Check & Mate is Ali Hazelwood’s first venture into the young adult/new adult arena. I listened to the audiobook, which boasts impeccable narration by Karissa Vacker. Combined with an excellent story, it makes for an entertaining listening experience. This is the first romance I’ve read that is set in the world of professional chess, and what a treat it is. |
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Hello Stranger by Katherine Center When you are a voracious reader, it sometimes feels like you have read it all. Hello Stranger gets kudos for being the most original, unique book I’ve read this year. I couldn’t put it down. |
Hello Stranger made my list this year as well! I really enjoyed Check & Mate, too! Great list.
Thanks so much! I think I saw some mixed reviews of Hello Stranger. Glad you liked it too.
I keep seeing that Meghan Quinn book. I’m definitely adding it to KU shelf. Amazing list!
Thanks! I hope you enjoy it!
Awesome I’m ready to read some good books!!
Hello Stranger is on my best of 2023 list too! I also really enjoyed Happy Place and Spare. Glad to see all the books you loved!
I’m glad we had so much in common!