The Best Books of 2023!
Here is our ever-evolving list of the best books of 2023. Here’s the process:
Starting in January, Jackie and I start to compile our 5-star books for our best books of 2023 list. Once we have at least one book per category, we feel ready to publish it.
But the list is very much subject to change. We like to distill each category down to the best 3-4 picks per year, but since we read a combined total of more than 300 books a year, the competition gets tougher as the year goes on.
For example, if you are here in April, the best romance books of 2023 may look very different than they do in August or December! But we think that’s part of the fun.
In addition to listing the best books of 2023, we thought it would be fun to highlight our 3-4 favorite finds of the month too. Yes, we are primarily books, but if you follow us on Instagram, you know we share lots of lifestyle finds in our stories too. I love to chat about a product I love.
We are so curious to know if our picks for best books of 2023 match up with yours! Let us know in the comments.
*Best Books of 2023 post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you.
Best Historical Fiction Books of 2023
Stars in an Italian Sky
Author: Jill Santopolo
Year: 2023
Genre: Romance
More info: New York Times Bestselling Author
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Where do I even start with this book? I loved it so much. In Genoa Italy, in 1946 Vincenzo and Giovanna fell in love. But, they belong to two different worlds. She is the daughter of a tailor and she is almost royalty.
In 2017, Cassandra and Luca are in love. When Luca asks Cassandra’s grandmother to be a model for his new painting, with his grandfather, the past and its secrets are revealed.
I cannot say enough about this book that is part contemporary fiction and part historical fiction. It had me absolutely bawling by the end, ugly crying, and I LOVED it. The ending was perfect, fitting, and cathartic.
This is a perfect pick for books set in Italy and a must for our ultimate beach reads 2023 post. If you love second chance romance books, this is one of the best there is.
Why Kirsten loves it
I could not wait to read this book because I was looking for a book set in Italy. Santapolo never fails to write fantastic books with compelling characters and plotlines that will bring you to tears.
Why Jackie loves it
I adored this book and while books usually don’t make me cry, this one had me ugly crying. I adored every minute of this book- the characters, the plot, and how the story came together were just what I needed.
Find this book in: Books Set in Italy / Ultimate Beach Reads 2023/ Second Chance Romance Books /
The Frozen River
Author: Ariel Lawhon
Year: 2023
Genre: Mystery
More info: December 2023 Good Morning America Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 16+
Plot
I was so excited to read this pick from the 2023 book releases and let me tell you that I was not disappointed!
This historical mystery is inspired by the diary of Martha Ballard, an 18th-century midwife, who never lost a single mother in over 1000 deliveries.
When a man found entombed in ice, also happens to be the same man accused of a horrible attack, Martha tries to seek justice for the women that nobody else wants to protect. This is a time when man’s word was the law.
Trigger Warnings
Rape, sexual assault
Why Jackie loves it
This book is brilliantly written and so well-researched that I could not put it down. The book starts slower as the characters develop, I was fascinated to read about Martha and how she became the educated woman that she was in a time when this was not the norm.
Find this book in: Best Books of 2023 / Best Winter Books / Best Books for Book Clubs / Best Celebrity Book Club Picks
Best Romance Books of 2023
The Hundred Loves of Juliet
Author: Evelyn Skye
Year: 2023
Genre: Romance
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
After a terrible divorce, Helene moves to a small town in Alaska to write a novel. When she meets Sebastian, a handsome fisherman, he is the personification of all the dreams she ever had of her perfect man.
Helene is determined to find the truth about her instant connection to Sebastian, but he’s determined to keep it from her.
Why Kirsten loves it
I don’t want to spoil exactly how this Romeo and Juliet retelling is connected to the original story, but it’s a lovely romance with many mini-romances scattered throughout.
Why Jackie loves it
This book will keep you turning the pages and smiling at the end. Kirsten and I both think this is one of the best romance books of 2023.
Find this book in: Best Books of 2023 / Cozy Books / Second Chance Romance / Best Books for Book Clubs to Read / Nonlinear Narrative Novels / Amnesia Books
Meet Me at the Lake
Author: Carley Fortune
Year: 2023
Genre: Romance
More info: New York Times Bestselling author
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range:18+
Plot
Will and Fern spent one amazing, adventure-filled day together in their early 20s with a promise to meet up again one year later. When Fern shows up and Will doesn’t, she is heartbroken.
Now, nine years later, Fern has inherited the lakeside resort that she never wanted to run, her ex-boyfriend is the resort manager, and she needs help. When Will shows up at the resort with an offer to help get things back in order, she doesn’t know if she can get over her old feelings and trust him again.
Why Jackie loves it
Set between Muskoka and Toronto, it reminded me of my childhood and teenage years! This is a romance novel that left my heart feeling gushy. I wanted to start at the beginning as soon as I was done the last page. This is my favorite of Carley Fortune’s books.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love a good lake romance- especially since I met my husband at camp (which had a small lake). There is something about this book that is so romantic and hopeful, it left me wanting more.
Adaptation Information
Archewell Productions, head by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, is slated to release this film to Netflix.
Find this book in: Second Chance Romance Novels / Hotel Novels / Ultimate Beach Reads 2023 / Carley Fortune Books In Order / Books Becoming Movies
5-Star Books: Best Middle-Grade Books of 2023
The One and Only Ruby by Katherine Applegate
The third book in the One and Only series is focused on Ruby’s stories about her time in Africa. As always, Ivan, Bob, and Ruby’s bond captivated my family’s attention. Our kids had a hard time deciding which was their favorite book in this series. This book definitely has some sad parts so we want to give fair warning for any sensitive readers.
However, if you are a Katherine Applegate lover, this book does not disappoint. Once again, Applegate makes our list of best middle grade books of 2023! #gifted
Plot
This tween fantasy novel is a retelling of Anne of Green Gables – except Grace (Anne) is in training with the witch (Marilla). Oh! And Matthew is a cloud.
Why Kirsten loves it
Fantastical? Yes — and utterly delightful. I loved when retellings completely rework the story so readers get glimpses of the classics we love, while experiencing something completely new. This story swept me away and was so sad when it ended.
Find this book in: Best Books of 2023 / Fantasy Books for Tweens / Classic Retellings / Best Books for a 10-year-old
Best Contemporary Fiction Books of 2023
The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store
Author: James McBride
Year: 2023
Genre: Literary Fiction
More info: New York Times Bestseller
100 Best Books of the 21st Century
From Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential people
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This pick from the best books to read in 2023 is from the National Book Award-winning author of The Good Lord Bird. When workers find a skeleton at the bottom of a well while doing work, who the skeleton was and what happened reveals some old secrets of the residents of Chicken Hill.
It is clear from the incredible writing in this book why it has been named a New York Times Notable Book and a Best Book by NPR, Washington Post, The New Yorker, and Time Magazine.
This is more than a mystery. It is a history of Pottstown, Pennsylvania where Moshe and Chona Ludlow, a Jewish couple, worked with the unofficial leader of the Black community to keep a deaf boy safe from authorities. It is a story of family, love community and survival. #gifted
Trigger Warnings
Racism, sexual assault, racial slurs
Why Jackie loves it
McBride is a brilliant writer and this book is a clear example of his ability to write a character study like nobody else.
Find this book in: Best Books of 2023 /Best Books for Book Clubs to Read
Big Gay Wedding
Author: Byron Lane
Year: 2023
Genre: Romance
More info: Named one of Cosmopolitan’s Best Books of 2023
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Barnett has returned home to his mother’s farm in rural Louisana to announce that he’s getting married – to another man. Needless to say, introducing Ezra to his mom does not go down smoothly.
Byron Lane delivers a FANTASTIC novel filled with family drama, growth, acceptance, and a BIG GAY WEDDING. I think this is my favorite wedding novel of all time.
Why Kirsten loves it
It’s over the top exactly where it needs to be and its heartwarming in the best way possible. Also, I cried over a sheep. I adored Barnett and Ezra’s families and especially their relationship. This one is a total must-read and a pick for the best books of 2023!
Find this book in: The Best Books of 2023/ Best Books for Book Clubs to Read / Books About Weddings
Pineapple Street
Author: Jenny Jackson
Year: 2023
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
More info: March 2023 Good Morning America Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 16+
Plot
I loved this family drama book about the blue-blooded Stockton family, told from the perspective of sisters, Darley and Georgiana, and their sister-in-law, Sasha.
Each woman struggles to navigate life in the Stockton family. Sasha, a middle-class artist feels like an unwelcomed outsider. Darley struggles to live up to the Stockton family name after she gives up her identity to embrace motherhood. Georgiana, the youngest, needs to grow up and become a capable adult!
Each family member struggles both on their own and within the family dynamic in this wonderful contemporary fiction. Each sibling faces dramatic struggles from sick parents to committing adultery to a lost job.
Why Kirsten loves it
I loved seeing how they each grew throughout this book for book clubs and ultimately how they strengthened their familial bond. While the book had enough meat for me to get invested, it also had glimpses of the whimsy of the monied elite. The matriarch of this family in particular is a hoot!
Find this book in: Best Books of 2023/ Ultimate Beach Reads 2023/ Best Family Drama Books / Books with Food in the Title / Best Books About Siblings
Maame
Author: Jessica George
Year: 2023
Genre: Literary Fiction
More info: February 2023 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This story about Maddie, known as Maame to her family, was immersive and beautifully complex. Dealing with friendships, racism, familial obligations, and then grief, this story swept me away. Maddie lives in London as the primary caretaker of her father who has Parkinson’s. Her mother spends most of her time in Ghana.
Trigger Warnings
Death of parent, Grief, Mental illness
Why Kirsten loves it
I felt fiercely protective of Maddie while reading this book. There were times I wanted to swoop in to relieve some of the burdens of this wonderful character with a heart of gold. But it was more rewarding to see Maddie finding her inner strength and learning to prioritize herself and her dreams. I can’t recommend this coming-of-age book about grief enough – especially as a book for book clubs.
Find this book in: Best Books of 2023 / Best Coming-of-age Books for Adults / Novels about Africa / Beach Reads 2023 / Fiction Books about Grief / Best Books for Book Clubs to Read / Best Read With Jenna Books
Best Beach Reads of 2023
Plot
I picked up this book based on the cover and the thoughts of the hula dance competition, but instead of the fun read I was expecting, I got a coming-of-age story about a light-skinned Hawaiian trying to prove she belongs by learning to Hula.
But this Hula isn’t just a dance, it keeps the legends and legacies of the Hawaiian culture alive. Sprinkled throughout this story, while Hi’i is fighting to prove her worth, we see glimpses of her mother and grandmother’s lives and vignettes that explain Hawaii’s history, colonization, and the struggle of native Hawaiians today.
Why Kirsten loves it
There is so much to uncover in this book, so many layers to absorb. I was entertained while reading it, but more importantly, I learned so much. I’ll be raving about this for years to come!
Find this book in: Thought-provoking Books / Beach Reads 2023 / Best Books 2023 / Best Female BIPOC Author / Family Saga / Best Beach Reads of All Time / Coming-of-age Books for Adults
Happy Place
Author: Emily Henry
Year: 2023
Genre: Romance
More info: Instant New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range:18+
Plot
Emily Henry is an author who is always consistent with her romances. She may be the queen of romantic comedy books. Nothing says “summer reads” like Emily Henry.
Harriet and Wyn have been together for years until they broke up 5 months ago. The only problem is that they still haven’t told their best friends and now they will be sharing a room during their yearly vacation with their friends.
How hard can it be to keep up the facade of a happy couple? If you love fake dating books, this is one of the best. And if you are hoping these two will have a second chance at love, you will not be disappointed.
There is something special in every one of Emily Henry’s romances and this newest book is no exception. It is one of the best books of 2023!
Why Jackie loves it
Emily Henry finds a way to write books that are so readable with characters that are so loveable. I was rooting for these two the find their way back to each other.
Find this book in: Emily Henry Books / Second Chance Romance / Romantic Comedy Books / Fake Dating Books
The Breakaway by Jennifer Weiner
I absolutely loved this feel-good fiction. Abby Stearn has good friends, her bike, her bike club, and has come to terms with her plus-size body. When she is given the chance to lead a group bike trip from New York City to Niagara Falls she is happy to have the time to make some hard life choices.
She loves her fiance but cannot help questioning if he is the man for her. And if he is, why is her one-night stand from years ago still haunting her thoughts? When he shows up on the bike trip and her mother shows up as well, Abby will have to deal with a lot of truths.
This is a book that deals with body image and mother-daughter relationships with Weiner’s signature charm and humor. #gifted
Best Feel-Good Books of 2023
The Wishing Game
Author: Meg Shaffer
Year: 2023
Genre: Fiction
More info: National Bestseller
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Jack Masterson is the author behind the Clock Island series, a series of beloved children’s books. Now, years after he was thought to be retired, he has written a new book. There is only one copy of the book that will go to the winner of a contest held on Clock Island.
For Lucy Hart, winning the contest will mean everything to her. It will mean she can finally have the means to adopt Christopher, the little boy that she has grown to love.
Why Jackie loves it
This book felt like an adult fairy tale. If you are looking for books about puzzles, this uplifting, feel-good book is the perfect book.
Find this book in: Books About Puzzles / Feel-Good Books
The Love Scribe
Author: Amy Meyerson
Year: 2023
Genre: Romance
More info: Bestselling author of Bookshop of Yesterdays
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Where do I even start with this amazing magical realism book? When Alice’s best friend has yet another horrible breakup, Alice wants to make her feel better by writing her a letter, the way she used to when they were young. Instead, she finds herself writing a story and as if by magic, Gabby meets the man of her dreams.
Soon, Alice is writing stories for everyone as her gift pours from her. When she is sent a letter that brings her to a mysterious mansion, she meets Madeline who wants to have a special story written for her. Alice is forced to deal with her own past in order to move forward.
Why Kirsten loves it
From the first page, I could not stop reading this book. As soon as I started, I told Jackie that she had to read the book. She loved it as much as I did. We knew it was a perfect book club book because of the amount of time we spent discussing it.
Why Jackie loves it
This book is so compelling I could not put it down. I love the writing but I also love the story within the story. Kirsten and I have had endless discussions about this book and the ending.
Find this book in: Magical Realism Books / Fiction Books about Writers / Best Books by Jewish Writers and Authors / Best Books for Book Clubs / Romance Books About Books
The Summer of Songbirds
Author: Kristy Woodson Harvey
Year: 2023
Genre: Fiction
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Daphne, Lanier, and Mary Stuart met at Camp Holly Springs as 6-year-olds and have remained inseparable ever since. They have been through unplanned pregnancies and addiction, and have taken on each other’s hard things.
Now, with the camp that they love so much in danger of closing, the three women come together to help Daphne’s aunt (and owner of the camp) save their beloved home.
Why Jackie loves it
Every so often, you read a book that brings you back to your childhood. Kirsty Woodson Harvey brought me back to my summers at camp. This book touched my heart. I loved every word! This is a real celebration of friendship and chosen family.
Find this book in: Best Books of 2023 / Lake Novels / Summer Camp Novels / Books with Summer in the title
Best YA Books of 2023: 5-Star Books for Teens
Plot
Chess destroyed Mallory’s family four years ago which led to her quitting the sport. Now, she supports her family with a dead-end job. When she plays one last chess game in a tournament and beats the current world champion, Nolan Sawyer, nobody is more shocked than he is.
The cash from the win encourages Mallory to keep playing as a paid fellowship but soon things become even more complicated than the game when she starts to love chess and have feelings for Nolan.
Why Jackie loves it
I am so honored that I was able to read a copy of this debut YA novel from the master romance writer behind the New York Times Bestseller The Love Hypothesis. It has everything I expected from a Hazelwood novel made appropriate for teens. #gifted
Find this book in: Best YA Romance Books / Best Summer Reads 2024 / Best Books of 2023 / Ali Hazelwood Books Ranked / Best High School Romance Books
We Ship It by Lauren Kay
This charming YA cruise novel screams summer vacation read! Our nerdy heroine is dragged on a cruise by her family despite her desire to study for an upcoming presentation.
Despite being a little awkward, she meets a fun crew of fellow teens and a love interest. Sound fluffy? It is, but there are serious topics explored as well. Trigger warnings for drug use and overdose in pick for best ya books of 2023.
Warrior Girl Unearthed by Angeline Boulley
I loved the Firekeeper’s Daughter and I was so excited to read this book. I was worried that it would not live up to my expectations but it was a 5-star book and a best of 2023. This is an emotional and powerful, must-read book. It is a slower-paced book for me but I have been thinking about this book long after I finished the last page.
Perry Firekeeper Birtch has always known who she was (the troublemaker) and what she wanted to do (fish). When she gets in an accident and has to pay back her aunt for the cost of fixing the car, she spends the summer working to make it up to her aunt.
In the process, she discovers that the remains of her ancestors, the Anishinaabe, are not being returned to their rightful families, grave robbers are profiting from sacred artifacts, and the missing indigenous women are not being investigated. #gifted
Best Celebrity Book Club Picks of 2023: 5-Star Books
Hello Beautiful
Author: Ann Napolitano
Year: 2023
Genre: Literary Fiction
More info: March 2023 Oprah Book Club Pick
Age Range: 16+
Plot
I adored this family saga about the four Padavano sisters and the man that enters their family orbit. William Waters grew up in a house with indifferent parents, so he fell head over heels for Julia and then her family.
But William’s inner demons cause a rift between the sisters that shakes the family to its core and dramatically changes the dynamics between all the Padavanos. Told over decades, this story examines the ties that bind us to our family through the ebbs and flows of life.
Trigger Warnings
Suicide attempt, Mental illness
Why Kirsten loves it
As one of four children, this coming-of-age story really spoke to me. Napolitano does an incredible job of accurately depicting the individual sibling relationships with one another and the role each person plays within the larger family dynamic. It’s a tall order and a near-impossible challenge to nail the complexities of a big family, but Napolitano does it with aplomb.
Find this book in: Books About Sisters / Coming-of-age Books for Adults / Best Books of 2023 / Family Sagas / Best Books for Book Clubs to Read / Best Books About Siblings / Best Oprah’s Book Club Books
Chain-Gang All-Stars
Author: Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah
Year: 2023
Genre: Sci-fi
More info: May 2023 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This book was a doozy in the most thought-provoking way. The story is about the stars of Chain-Gang All-Stars, the reality tv show that pits prisoners against each other in gladiator-type fights to the death.
Thurwar and Staxxx are stars of the show, brutally killing anyone they come up against, but as Thurwar gets ready to win her freedom after 3 years on TV, the creators of the show throw many hurdles in her path.
Trigger Warnings
Violence
Why Kirsten loves it
This searing look at racism and classism feels highly relevant to today’s world, when a show like this could easily exist in some states. The reality TV book was so unique. Even days later, I can’t stop thinking about the all-stars, the protesters fighting for their rights, and the stunning conclusion.
Find this book in: Dystopian Novels / Best Books of 2023 / Faux Celebrity Fiction / Best Read With Jenna Books
Tom Lake
Author: Ann Patchett
Year: 2023
Genre: Historical Fiction (Dual Timeline)
More info: August 2023 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Age Range: 15+
Plot
In the spring of 2020, Lara’s three daughters return home and beg their mother to tell the story of her romance with a movie star from long ago.
Throughout their Mom’s telling of her summer theatre experience at Tom Lake, the daughters get the long-awaited answers to questions they’ve asked for years. The whole family also re-examines their lives and relationships through the new lens of information. While this is a pandemic story, it’s more of a plot device to get the family together than anything else. So don’t expect to be triggered!
Trigger Warnings
Pandemic
Why Kirsten loves it
Ann Patchett is an amazing storyteller and I love all her books, so it’s no surprise that this story is one of my best books of 2023 picks! I was completely enchanted by this story, especially because Meryl Streep reads the audiobook version.
Find this book in: Best Books of 2023 / Novels Set on a Lake / Isolation Books / Family Dramas / Best Reese Witherspoon Books
Best Fantasy Books of 2023
The Minuscule Mansion of Myra Malone by Audrey Burges
This is easily one of the most unique magical realism books I’ve ever read. Myra Malone blogs about a dollhouse mansion and has thousands of followers. But the mansion is more than it seems as rooms disappear and reappear overnight.
Across the country, Alex is shocked to see someone recreating the rooms of his home in miniature form. Alex and Myra correspond to determine their connection and in the process feel a pull to each other.
Fourth Wing
Author: Rebecca Yarros
Year: 2023
Genre: Fantasy Romance
More info: Empyrean Series Book #1 of 5
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹đź’‹đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
If you have not heard of this book and love fantasy, this is the book for you. Don’t be intimidated by the length of this dragon book. I started and finished this 528-page bad boy in a day and a half. I cannot remember the last time I did that!
Violet Sorrengail had spent her life studying to be a scribe until her father died and her mother, the commanding general, ordered her to join the dragon riders. Violet will become one of the hundreds of candidates who fight to the death to be a part of this elite group.
Unlike the other candidates who have worked towards this their whole lives, Violet is small and brittle and never meant for this to be her path. And other candidates do not have the children of rebel leaders waiting to take revenge.
This adult fantasy book has everything that you would want in a fantasy from epic world-building to amazing abilities, magical creatures, non-stop action, and romance.
Trigger Warnings
Graphic sexual content, death
Why Jackie loves it
I loved every second. It lives up to the hype and then some. The world-building is amazing and the book pulled me in from the first page. Usually the story begins with an event and the story commences after this catalyst moment. Fourth Wing begins after that crucial moment so I felt I was immersed in the story from page one.
Why Kirsten loves it
I don’t know why I waited so long to read this book, but Jackie was right when she told me how much I would love it. Even though I do not usually love world-building, fantasies like this, the plot line and romance throughout this book, kept me hooked the whole time.
Adaptation Information
It’s early days yet, but the rights to turn this book series into a TV series were acquired by Amazon Prime Video.
Find this book in: Adult Fantasy Books / Fourth Wing Series in Order / Adult Fantasy Romance Books / Best Books for Book Clubs to Read / Best Adult Fantasy Novels / Books Like A Court of Thorns and Roses / Dragon Books for Adults
For More Books Like This: The Best Books Like Fourth Wing
Tress of the Emerald Sea
Author: Brandon Sanderson
Year: 2023
Genre: Fantasy
More info: Secret Projects #1
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 13+
Plot
This is the book that you would get if The Princess Bride had a book baby that empowered women everywhere to be the heroes in their own story, seek out adventure, and be brave enough to become who they were intended to be.
Tress has grown up on her tiny island with her one friend Charlie, who is also the Duke’s son, to keep her company. When the Duke takes Charlie away and he doesn’t return, Tress sets off to rescue him from the Sorceress who lives on the deadly Midnight Sea. She will encounter pirates, talking rats, betrayal, love, and friendship on her voyage.
Why Jackie loves it
If you love fantasy books of any kind, stop now and make time to read this fantastic book. It earns all the stars! While technically this is a fantasy book for adults, it is appropriate for a young adult or teen audience as well.
Find this book in: Pirate Books / YA Fantasy / Best of 2023 / Adult Fantasy Novels
Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries
Author: Heather Fawcett
Year: 2023
Genre: Fantasy
More info: Emily Wilde #1
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 13+
Plot
Emily Wilde is an expert on the study of faeries who is writing the first encyclopedia on faerie lore. She has traveled to the village of Hrafnsvik to study the Hidden Ones. She is much better with her dog and faeries than she is with people so she is not happy when Wendell Bamblely shows up uninvited. He is her handsome and lazy rival who is not opposed to making things up as he goes along.
Why Jackie loves it
This is one of the best fantasy books of 2023! I knew I needed to read it as soon as I saw the name, but everything about it was wonderful. This is one of the best books I have read in a long time. The sequel, Emily Wilde’s Map of the Overlands is already of of my favorites of 2024.
Find this book in: Fae Books / Cozy Books / Best Books of 2023 / Adult Fantasy Romance Books /Adult Fantasy Novels / Books With Neurodivergent Characters / Guide to Emily Wilde Series
Best Thrillers and Mystery Books of 2023
The Puzzle Master by Danielle Trussoni
I was completely intrigued when I saw the description of this book. I had high hopes and this book exceeded my expectations. The description called this “books like The Da Vinci Code” which made this a must-read.
Mike Brink was once a promising football star until an injury ruined his career. It also had the side effect of a condition called Acquired Savant Syndrome which allowed him to have a perfect memory and an ability to solve puzzles other people cannot.
When Jess Price, an inmate convicted of murder sends Brink a puzzle he cannot solve, he gets sucked into her world and the world of the God Puzzle.
Why We Love It: I listened to this book in one day and was immediately taken in by the twists, turns, and puzzles in this book. It is such a unique book.
Find This Book In Puzzle Books For Adults
Happiness Falls
Author: Angie Kim
Year: 2023
Genre: Mystery
More info: September 2023 Good Morning America Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range:
Plot
Happiness Falls is a captivating and heartwrenching tale about a Korean-American family in Virginia. When her dad mysteriously vanishes, Mia is convinced there’s a logical explanation. But as the search unfolds, family secrets unravel, and Mia’s younger brother, who is non-speaking Autistic, becomes the only witness.
Packed with shocking twists and thought-provoking questions, this book explores love, language, disabilities, and the lengths a family will go to understand one another. It was more than just a mystery. It was an exploration of the bonds of family.
Trigger Warnings
Death of a parent
Why Kirsten loves it
I love the portrayal of this family. Not only is this book filled with twists, it delves into the complexity of family and expressions of love.
Find this book in: Best Family Drama Books / Good Morning America Book Club List / Best Books for Book Clubs / Best Books of 2023 / Books With Neurodivergent Characters
Plot
Inspired by real events, this captivating tale takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the lives of two women determined to seek justice and bring down a serial killer. This mystery-thriller book flips the script on traditional serial killer tales, focusing on the female victims and the women impacted by the perpetrator’s horrendous crimes.
Why Kirsten loves it
The killer is never named, instead the victims are rounded out and given depth in a way that highlights and celebrates who they were when alive. I’ve been recommending this feminist story to everyone!
Find this book in: Best Books of 2023 / Fiction Serial Killer Books / Books Set in College / Best Books for Book Clubs to Read
Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers
Author: Jesse Q. Sutanto
Year: 2023
Genre: Mystery
More info: Vera Wong #1
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 13+
Plot
Vera Wong lives above her tea shop in Chinatown in San Francisco. When she finds a dead body in the shop, she calls the police immediately but also cleans up a bit, uses a Sharpie to trace the body, and takes the flash drive out of the man’s dead hand.
She is sure that she can do a better job of finding the murderer than the police. She comes up with a plan to find the killer and finds four suspects who she grows to care for.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved this mystery book and have recommended this cozy book too many times to count. Vera is easily one of my favorite amateur detectives and the story is simultaneously funny and heartwarming!
Find this book in: Ultimate List of Beach Reads 2023 / Books Like a Man Called Ove / Fiction Books About Tea / Best Cozy Mystery Books
Best Non-Fiction Books of 2023
The Kingdom of Prep: The Inside Story of the Rise and (Near) Fall of J.Crew
Author: Maggie Bullock
Year: 2023
Genre: Nonfiction
Plot
An inside look at a brand that defined my 20s? Sign me up to read this bad boy! This book looks at J.Crew’s creation, its juggernaut success in the 90s and 2000s, and what led to the company’s declaration of bankruptcy at the outbreak of the pandemic.
Why Kirsten loves it
With dozens of interviews and extensive research, Bullock delivers a compelling, nostalgic, and brutally honest account of the company. I loved the behind-the-scenes feel to the book and particularly enjoyed learning about Jenna Lyons’s rise to prominence inside the company.
Find this book in: Books about Fashion / Good Nonfiction Books for Beginners / Beach Reads 2023 / Best Books 2023
Spare by Prince Harry
I’m still reeling from the revelations and truths woven throughout Prince Harry’s narrative. His candor in taking us from the death of his mother to the death of Queen was refreshingly real and often poetic, no doubt thanks to the incredible skills of his ghostwriter.
I was struck by how much I had believed the press’s story of his life; accurate or not. To think that an entire family’s stories could be so fabricated or twisted into untruth was astonishing.
In revealing his own truths, however, he illuminated the dreadful antics of his family. Wills, Charles, Camilla, and the courtiers do not come out of this book without tarnish – and with good reason. There is so much to talk about, this is our book club book for next month.
At the end of the day, it’s hard not to judge everyone for lack of compassion but it’s a generational cycle that needs to be broken. I felt proud to see Harry putting in the work to make sure his own children don’t go through what he did.
This is a must for fans of books about the royal family and stories about royalty. This book is a best book for book clubs and a perfect pick from beach reads. Even if you don’t usually read memoirs, this is one of the best non-fiction books of 2023.
The Wager by David Grann
David Grann writes the most captivating nonfiction books that read like novels. The Wager is no exception. It’s a tale of the shipwreck of the English boat, Wager in 1742.
Encompassing the events that led up to the wrecking, the mutiny that happened after, and the dastardly deeds of some of the crew before and after their rescue kept me enthralled.
While not quite a pirate book, this high-seas boat book read like Treasure Island and kept me entertained while I pondered what I might have done in the same situation.
The Art Thief by Michael Finkel
I’m not sure I’ve ever read a nonfiction book that read so much like fiction. Imagine 2 people driving around Europe casually stealing billions of dollars worth of art from the most famous galleries and museums in the world.
That’s what this book about thieves is all about. I was floored by the writing, but the story is one I wouldn’t believe if it wasn’t true. It’s a fast, compelling book that art lovers, mystery lovers, and true crime aficionados must read.
Best Children’s Books of 2023
Bruce and the Legend of Soggy Hollow
Author: Ryan T. Higgins
Illustrator: Ryan T. Higgins
Year: 2023
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 4 – 8
More info: Mother Bruce #9
Plot
Mother Bruce is back in a brand new Halloween picture book! In an effort to get Bruce into the Halloween spirit, the animals try to get him to act out the legend of Soggy Hollow. As they act it out, they just might find out it’s not a legend after all!
Why Kirsten loves it
Mother Bruce will forever be in my home. I’ll be saving this entire series to read to my grandchildren someday, they are that great! This silly retelling of the Legend of Sleepy Hollow is no exception.
Find this book in: Best Books of 2023 / Best Halloween Books for Kids
The Bright Side by Chad Otis
This moving book is about making the most of any situation. It’s also a heartfelt portrait of houselessness that will help explain the topic to young children.
The story is based on Chad’s own experiences as a child and is both uplifting and enlightening. This is one of our picks for best children’s books of 2023.
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Sleigh!
Author: Mo Willems
Illustrator: Mo Willems
Year: 2023
Genre: Picture Books
Age: 4 – 7
More info: Part of the Don’t Let the Pigeon series
Plot
Mo Willems is back with a new Pigeon book and it’s set at Christmas! Pigeon is back and trying to drive Santa’s sleigh in this charming Christmas book.
Why Kirsten loves it
It’s one of the best children’s books of 2023 because Mo Willems can do no wrong! He brings his signature wit to the Christmas season in this silly story.
Find this book in: Best Books of 2023Â /Â Best Christmas Books for Toddlers / Best Christmas Books for Kids
