29 Most Anticipated New October 2023 Book Releases by Genre
The October 2023 book releases are here and we are so excited about this amazing list of books that we cannot wait to read. This month’s book releases are filled with holiday books and fantasy books that we are sure you will love.
Which books are you looking forward to?
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Most Anticipated October 2023 Fiction Book Releases
The List by Yomi Adegoke
Genre: Literary Fiction
Plot: In this pick from October 2023 book releases Ola Olajide, a renowned journalist, is thrown into disarray when her fiancé’s name appears on a viral social media post. As secrets and lies intertwine with the digital culture, readers are taken on a mesmerizing journey through the lives of these millennial characters in this debut novel.
If Only I Had Told Her by Laura Nowlin
Genre: Fiction
Plot: Finn was head over heels for Autumn, but he never quite found the courage to confess his feelings. Instead, he settled for being the best friend while secretly pining away. Jack, his loyal sidekick, knew the truth and wondered how Autumn couldn’t see it. With fate’s unpredictable twists and turns, this love story unfolds through multiple perspectives and the magical power of unexpected bonds. We cannot wait for this pick from the October 2023 book releases.
Ultimate List of Contemporary Fiction
Love Contemporary Fiction? I do too! The Ultimate List of Contemporary Fiction is carefully divided by genres.
The Leftover Woman by Jean Kwok
Genre: Fiction
Plot: Jasmine Yang, a woman from a rural Chinese village, flees from her husband in a quest to find the daughter that was taken from her at birth. Rebecca Whitney, a seemingly perfect publishing executive, faces a crumbling world of scandals that challenge her role as a wife and mother. The Leftover Woman weaves together their gripping stories, exploring the profound ties of motherhood and family in this pick from October 2023 book releases. This is a perfect book about motherhood.
Julia by Sandra Newman
Genre: Classic Retelling
Plot: If you love Classic Book Retellings, you will definitely want to read this pick from the October 2023 book releases. This book is a retelling of Orwell’s 1984 from the point of view of Julia, Winston Smith’s Lover.
Everything is Not Enough by Lola Akinmade Akerstrom
Genre: Fiction
Plot: In this pick from October 2023 book releases we follow the lives of three Black women in the egalitarian paradise of Sweden. Kemi, a powerful marketing exec is torn between love and career; Brittany, a former model is navigating divorce and secrets; and Yasmiin is facing her past while pursuing her dreams. Lola Akinmade Åkerström weaves a tangled web of place, prejudice, and patriarchy in this contemporary fiction novel.
October 2023 Book Releases: Historical Fiction
The Other Princess by Denny S. Bryce
Genre: Historical Fiction
Plot: Once upon a time in Victorian England, an African princess named Sarah Forbes Bonetta embarked on a remarkable journey. From being kidnapped and presented as a “gift” to Queen Victoria, Sarah charmed her way through royal court life with her wit and talent. Determined to find her true place and escape haunting visions, she navigated a world of racism and oppression, searching for a home where she could be a Yoruba princess and live a life filled with love and identity. This sweeping saga is based on a true story and is a wonderful pick from the October 2023 book releases.
Let Us Descend by Jesmyn Ward
Genre: Historical Fiction
Plot: This pick from October 2023 book releases is an enslaved girl’s odyssey in the years leading up to the Civil War. With the spirit of Dante’s Inferno as their guide, readers are transported through the treacherous landscapes of rice fields, slave markets, and Louisiana plantations. Annis, weaves a tapestry of memories and ancestral tales, in a world teeming with mystical spirits and the resilient essence of rebirth.
Ultimate List of Historical Fiction
Love Historical Fiction? The Ultimate List of Historical Fiction is the perfect list for you. It is carefully divided by time period.
October 2023 Book Releases: Most Anticipated Fantasy/ Sci-fi
The Golden Needle by T. J. Carroll
Genre: Fantasy
Plot: I was lucky enough to be an early reader for T. J. Carroll’s debut series, The Taiga. The first story features a daring race through a deadly, magical forest to find a treasure in the ruins for a Khan. I found myself compulsively turning pages as I raced faster than Dashi to the end. And don’t worry, the sequel is just as bingeable!
The Scandalous Confessions of Lydia Bennet, Witch by Melinda Taub
Genre: Historical Fiction Fantasy
Plot: Prepare to be whisked away to a bewitching world of Pride and Prejudice like never before in this pick from the October 2023 book releases! The youngest Bennet sister, Lydia, takes center stage and reveals the truth behind Austen’s beloved tale, complete with barn cats, wicked demons, uptight Mr. Darcy, and a touch of enchantment that promises a wildly unexpected redemption for this scandalous witchy sister. This is the perfect book to read if you loved practical magic.
Sword Catcher by Cassandra Clare
Genre: High Fantasy
Plot: In the city-state of Castellane, where nobles and criminals chase wealth and thrills, two heroes emerge. Kel, the brave body double of a prince, and Lin, a physician with magical abilities, find themselves entangled in a world of forbidden love, secrets, and a plot that could turn their world upside down. As they navigate the underbelly of Castellane, they must decide if they’re willing to pay the price for knowledge and if their love can bring about both revolution and chaos. This epic fantasy from OCtober 2023 book releases will leave you wanting more.
I Loved You in Another Life by David Arnold
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy Romance
Plot: Evan has plans to take a gap year when his mom receives a diagnosis. His plans fade but he hears a song that no one else can hear. Shosh had plans to move to LA before her sister was killed by a drunk driver. Now, as her plans fade, she hears to song as well. This pick from October 2023 book releases is a love story from Alaska to LA, from Paris to outer space, and across time. With original songs and lyrical prose, get ready to be swept away by the magical history of love!
The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young
Genre: Fantasy
Plot: In the enchanting town of Jasper, June Farrow bravely sets out to break her family’s ancient curse and solve the puzzle of her mother’s disappearance. Along the way, she encounters mysterious signs, a magical door, and a chance at true love. Get ready for a whimsical journey filled with romance, secrets, and a touch of the impossible that will leave you spellbound and longing for more in this pick from October 2023 book releases. And if you love fantasy, you can check out The Ultimate List of YA Fantasy.
Ultimate List of YA Fantasy
If fantasy books are your favorite books, then these are the perfect book lists for you. We carefully divided them into sub-genres.
Most Anticipated Thrillers and Mysteries for October 2023
Midnight is the Darkest Hour by Ashley Winstead
Genre: Thriller
Plot: In the town of Bottom Springs, where fire-and-brimstone sermons echo and supernatural tales are common, librarian Ruth Cornier and her unlikely ally Everett find themselves embroiled in a gothic Southern thriller. As they uncover secrets hidden deep within their community, including the haunting legend of the Low Man, a vampiric figure lurking in the shadows, Ruth and Everett must confront their own inner demons to confront the true evil that lurks beneath the moonless nights. This pick from October 2023 book releases is a twisted tale of murder, love, and the power of stories.
Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll
Genre: Thriller
Plot: This pick from October 2023 book releases is inspired by real events, this captivating tale takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the lives of two women determined to seek justice and forge an unbreakable bond. With secrets, suspense, and a pursuit that spans decades, get ready to unravel the mystery and shine a spotlight on the extraordinary women who defy the odds.
What We Kept to Ourselves by Nancy Jooyoun Kim
Genre: Mystery
Plot:
In a tangled web of mystery and family drama, the Kims find themselves on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. When a stranger shows up dead in their backyard with a letter meant for their missing mother, it sets off an investigation that takes them back to the past, uncovering secrets that could shatter their world. With twists, turns, and a touch of fate, this suspenseful dual-timeline mystery from October 2023 book releases will keep you guessing until the very end.
Ultimate List of Thrillers
Love Thrillers? This list is curated and carefully divided by sub-genre. These will definitely keep you on your toes.
Romance: October 2023 Book Releases
10 Things That Never Happened by Alexis Hall
Genre: Romance
Plot: In a twist of fate and a bump on the head, Sam finds himself pretending to have amnesia to save his job and ends up tangled in a web of feelings. With a surly boss who may have a hidden soft side, Sam must navigate the tricky path of second chances and secret truths. Will their quirky connection survive the weight of a whimsical lie, or will the truth set them free to find a real happily ever after in this pick from October 2023 book releases?
A Winter in New York by Josie Silver
Genre: Romance
Plot: Get ready for a sweet and delectable adventure in the bustling streets of New York City! In this pick from October 2023 book releases, Iris uncovers a hidden family recipe, discovers love, and learns the power of mouthwatering gelato. With secrets, romance, and a dash of culinary magic, this charming tale will leave you craving for more. This pick is also perfect for a list of Delicious Books About Food
Never Met a Duke Like You by Amalie Howard
Genre: Historical Romance
Plot: Clueless meets Bridgerton in this pick from October 2023 book releases. Lady Vesper Lyndhurst is the daughter of a duke and a matchmaker extraordinaire but has sworn off love for herself. When the Duke of Greydon returns to England to revive his family fortune, he cannot deny the attraction to Lady Vesper in this friends to enemies to lovers romance.
The Graham Effect by Elle Kennedy
Genre: Romance
Plot: Welcome to the world of the Campus Diaries series, where Gigi Graham is determined to shine in hockey while stepping out of her famous father’s shadow. But to improve her game, she needs the help of the grumpy yet undeniably sexy Luke Ryder, the enemy-turned-ally. As they navigate a world of rivalries, angry teammates, and intense chemistry, they’ll discover that sometimes taking risks on and off the ice might just lead to the ultimate win in this pick from the October 2023 book releases.
Ultimate List of Romances
If you love all things romance, then this is the list for you! This is carefully divided by sub-genres like second-chance romance books, romcoms, and more.
October 2023: Best Non-Fiction Book Releases
The Woman in Me by Britney Spears
Genre: Memoir
Plot: Every Millenial will be rushing to read Britney Spear’s memoir this fall. It’s sure to be filled with explosive information about her life as the princess of pop. Will we finally get to hear about what happened with her and Justin? I know this is a pre-order book for me!
The Sisterhood: The Secret History of Women at the CIA by Liza Mundy
Genre: Nonfiction
Plot: This pick from the October 2023 book releases is a historical account of the integral yet often overlooked role of women in the CIA. These women, who started as clerks and secretaries, defied discrimination and became skilled operatives, operating in places like Bonn, Geneva, and Moscow. They played a crucial role in building the CIA’s archives, analyzing data, and eventually identifying the rising threat of Al Qaeda. This is a perfect pick to go on our post: Books About Female Spies to Read Now!
Best YA October 2023 Book Releases
A Curse for True Love by Stephanie Garber
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Plot: I have already pre-ordered this pick from the October 2023 book releases. This YA Fantasy is the third book in the Once Upon a Broken Heart series. Evangaline Fox has what she always wanted, her fairytale castle and prince. However, she cannot remember what she lost and her husband is going to make sure that she never remembers Jacks.
The Rosewood Hunt by Mackenzie Reed
Genre: Young Adult Mystery
Plot: Step into a world of intrigue and suspense with Lily Rosewood, a fashion-loving teen on a quest for her missing grandmother’s fortune. With a swoon-worthy friends-to-rivals-to-lovers romance, and twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this thrilling debut novel is perfect for fans of The Inheritance Games and Knives Out. Get ready for a treasure hunt like no other, where secrets, betrayal, and unexpected danger await at every turn. This pick from October 2023 book releases is a must-read.
People to Follow by Olivia Worley
Genre: Young Adult Thriller
Plot: Get ready for a thrilling and twisted reality show like no other in this pick from October 2023 book releases. Ten teenage influencers find themselves trapped on a remote island, but when a murder occurs, they realize the cost of being “canceled” could be their very lives. With secrets, suspense, and a mysterious sponsor, these social media stars must unravel the deadly game before their follower count dwindles to zero. We cannot wait to read this book that is perfect for our list of 27 Faux Celebrity Fiction and Influencer Books.
The Blackwoods by Brandy Colbert
Genre: Young Adult
Plot: A Step into the world of the Blackwoods, the most famous family in Hollywood! With stardom, secrets, and four generations of love, this tale sweeps you away on a whimsical journey through ambition, loss, and the power of family bonds. Get ready to be captivated by the glitz and glamour, where trust becomes a luxury and personal becomes public in a Hollywood where dreams and realities collide. This pick from October 2023 book releases is perfect for our list of Faux Celebrity Fiction and Influencer Books About the Famous Life
Holiday Books
Wreck the Halls by Tessa Bailey
Genre: Christmas Romance
Plot:
This is a perfect holiday romance from the October 2023 book releases. This holiday romance will have you laughing and swooning! Join Melody and Beat as they navigate family drama, rock star chaos, and a whirlwind mission to reunite their mothers’ band. With love, laughter, and a sprinkle of Christmas magic, this hilarious rom-com will leave you cheering for a happily ever after. Be sure to check out all the newest holiday books on our The Best Christmas Romance Books for an Enchanting Holiday.
The Christmas Cafe by Eliza Evans
Genre: Christmas
Plot: Welcome to Silver Bells, where love and Christmas magic fill the air! Join Sylvie, the clumsy baker with a heart of gold, as she fights to save her beloved Christmas Café with the help of her mischievous pup, Crumpet. With romance, festive shenanigans, and delicious treats, this whimsical tale from the October 2023 book releases will warm your heart.
Midnight at the Christmas Bookstore by Jenny Colgan
Genre: Fiction
Plot: This delightful pick from October 2023 book releases is a sequel to the Christmas Book Shop, a New York Times bestseller from Jenny Cogan. If you know us, you know that we love anything she has written, and you can find a complete list of all of her books in our post The Best Jenny Colgan Books Ranked and 33 Books In Order.
The Christmas Appeal by Janice Hallett
Genre: Mystery
Plot: In this pick from October 2023 book releases, the Fairway Players theater group prepares for their Christmas play. They find themselves caught up in solving a murder that threatens to halt their production. Join Femi and Charlotte, two witty lawyers, as they unravel clues, sift through Christmas letters, and dig into police transcripts to unmask the culprit before the final curtain falls. We are so excited about reading a holiday mystery!
The Best Holiday Books: An Ultimate List of Lists for 2023
Looking for more books? We have the best Holiday books in one place.
We LOVE to support independent bookstores. You can shop our entire list of October 2023 book releases on Bookshop.org
For more new release books like these, check out our August 2023 and September 2023 book releases as well
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