Looking for your next page-turner? These are the best fiction books of 2023 we read, along with some of our favorite backlist books for your best reading year.
Happy New Year, friends! This reading recap has always been my favorite post of the year, and I’m so excited to share our favorite books from 2023 with you.
This year, I devoured 102 books and over 35,000 pages. This number is less than the prior year, but I also made a goal to watch 52 films (or a TV season), which brought a beautiful balance into my reading life.
It was so fun to document that and share movie dates with the people I love in my life.
We ushered in our 2024 book club books, and I loved sharing almost every week with an author in conversation for the Book Gang podcast and MomAdvice Book Club.
Today, you can hear my incredible co-host Larry Hoffer and I discuss our top books of the year, including some excellent backlist books we just discovered.
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There is truly something for everyone on this year’s fiction list. This list of best nonfiction books offers my top recommendations and will be updated soon with some newer selections from this year.
I have a long list of books I can’t wait to get into, and these three buzy books may be on next year’s list!
Chain Gang All Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah (I SNAGGED A SIGNED COPY!)
Heaven and Earth Grocery Story by James McBride
The Bee Sting by Paul Murray
The Best Fictions Books of 2023
AMY'S BEST BOOKS OF 2023
Browse my favorite books of the year to snag your next favorite fiction book.
The Mostly True Story of Tanner & Louise by Colleen Oakley
This laugh-out-loud road trip book follows the unlikely duo of Tanner, a thwarted athlete turned caregiver, and the mischievous octogenarian Louise.
As a lover of intergenerational stories, I was captivated by the novel's acknowledgment of their differences and celebration of the common ground these characters discovered together.
For example, Tanner grapples with chronic pain in her twenties, while Louise faces the inevitable changes that come with aging. The beautiful ways they find overlap are what makes this story so good.
I loved the inclusion of funny running bits, like Louise's spontaneous disappearances to the salon during their road trip, which had me in stitches, especially after discovering that Colleen drew inspiration from a real-life moment with her grandmother in our interview.
BEST HISTORICAL FICTION 2023
These historical fiction books were among my favorites read in 2023.
In Memoriam by Alice Winn
This historical fiction novel defied my preconceived notions about war narratives.
Set against the backdrop of World War I, this remarkable story follows the entangled lives of Henry and Sydney, former classmates at an English boarding school, as they navigate their military service together and evolving feelings for each other.
The book doesn't shy away from depicting the harsh realities on the battlefield and the lasting exploration of PTSD that persists years after the war.
For those considering delving into this powerful narrative, the audiobook, combined with the paper copy, provides a unique and immersive experience, creating the authentic feeling of paging through newspapers to find the names of fallen soldiers with the echoing sounds of soldier's names through your earbuds.
I loved discovering that this novel also topped Larry's list!
The Girls We Sent Away by Meagan Church
This historical fiction novel is set to be released in March and captivated me with its eerie opening and poignant exploration of a gifted teen girl, Lorraine, navigating an unexpected pregnancy in the 1960s.
Church fully envelopes the reader into the Baby Scoop era, but more importantly, to a time in history when women knew very little about what was happening in their bodies.
This story offers well-crafted plot twists that I couldn't put down and the opening sequence took my breath away.
BEST LITERARY FICTION 2023
These 2023 literary fiction books were among my favorite books of the year.
The Rachel Incident by Caroline O'Donoghue
I am to stories set against the backdrop of the recession because they feel like a mirror to the times and struggles young people face now.
I've discussed this selection before, but this story feels exceptional because it explores a stunning little love triangle through Rachel's adult viewpoint.
Through her lens, we witness her immaturity, vulnerabilities, and moments of manipulation. Was everyone obsessed with us, or were we just obsessed with ourselves?
Shark Heart by Emily Habeck
To the surprise of no one, this novel was one of my favorite reads of the year.
The book description described almost a science fiction reading experience where animal mutations can occur in humans and with a character facing challenges when he is diagnosed with a shark mutation.
In this very grounded world, though, this didn't feel as unbelievable as I had expected, and this hit me so hard because I saw a little of my own love story embedded in the fibers of this novel.
I think every reader will take away something different from this experience, but after I read it, I spent a lot of time thinking about how much my husband had done and sacrificed for me through my chronic illness. I'm grateful for this poignant viewpoint, whether that was Habeck's intention or not.
Banyan Moon by Thao Thai
This novel feels like stepping into a vivid tapestry where Vietnam and Florida become more than mere settings—they're the canvases for a tale spanning three generations of Vietnamese American women that captured my heart.
Having followed Thao Thai's essays on motherhood for years, I knew that this debut would be a winner.
Still, her depiction of motherhood felt familiar at times and jarring in embracing the parts of ourselves that mothers often don't share.
Related- The Best Debuts of 2023
BEST FANTASY BOOKS 2023
Craving a cozy fantasy or a fast-paced romantasy selection? These are my favorite fantasy books from 2023.
The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer
This novel has rightfully claimed its spot as one of my favorite cozy fantasy escapes of the year, a sentiment shared by Larry!
My interview with Meg Schaeffer remains a Book Gang podcast highlight, offering a fascinating glimpse into Shaffer's profound love for literature and an obsession with Hitchcock films. Who knew?
The story centers around Lucy Hart, a 26-year-old teacher's aide navigating financial challenges with the heartwarming desire to adopt a student named Christopher.
Facing the obstacle of insufficient funds, Lucy stumbles upon a contest issued by her favorite childhood author, promising a chance to fulfill her dream.
Interspersed throughout the pages are middle-grade chapters that will remind you of being a child again.
This cozy fantasy embraces a Willy Wonka-esque adventure with a cozy ending I deeply desired when I read it.
Fourth Wing (The Empyrean Book 1) by Rebecca Yarros
Yarros opened up a captivating world with a dragon rider on adventures at a war college, a premise I wasn't sure would be for me.
However, what truly resonated with me was the representation within the story. The protagonist, Violet, battles a debilitating condition affecting her bones and ligaments, which doesn't magically disappear throughout the narrative.
Yarros skillfully offers a glimpse into the daily challenges faced by individuals dealing with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
What struck me most was the unique and surprising abilities shaped by her awareness and workarounds for navigating life with her condition.
I appreciated Yaros's portrayal, as it made me feel seen and sparked conversations among readers who shared similar experiences with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.
BACKLIST BOOKS
The majority of the books I read this year fall in the backlist books category as I was hosting a backlist book club year. A backlist book is a year older or more and likely available at your local library.
Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren
Out of the 20 romances I read this year, this backlist romance became one of my new all-time favorites.
The story revolves around Macy and Elliot, whose love blossoms from childhood friendship. What sets this book apart is its blend of romance with heartwarming bookish elements weaving in the charm of adolescent humor that can only be described as Judy Blume moments.
Not only did I discover that I love a slow-burn romance, but I'm also finding that second-chance romance books are the perfect books for me.
Sirens & Muses by Antonia Angress
This captivating campus novel, navigating the complexities of artistic expression against the evocative backdrop of the 2011 recession, was one of my favorite debuts of the year.
This story offers intriguing viewpoints at an art college from the lives of a student crafting art from memes, a professor confronting his compromises of artistic integrity, and roommates entangled in competition and romance.
The themes of capitalism and creative identity became the think piece I didn't know I needed when dissecting the characters' motives with my husband.
I can't wait for you to hear more about the story on Book Gang later this month.
True Biz by Sara Novic
This book club selection was a Reader's Choice selection, I now can claim as one of my all-time favorite mixed media books.
As an #ownvoices narrative, it not only presented a compelling campus story at a school for the Deaf, but its focus on cochlear implants offered one of the most compelling explorations on the topic I've ever read.
As a parent of teens, body autonomy in medical decisions is incredibly empowering in coming-of-age stories.
Coupling this with signing lessons expanded my understanding and challenged my preconceptions I didn't know I even had about the Deaf community.
Father of the Rain by Lily King
This 2010 novel transported me through three decades of the narrator's life, bookended with the Nixon to Obama eras for timing, as it intricately weaves the haunting narrative of a daughter grappling with her father's alcoholism.
King's memoir-like portrayal offers a pitch-perfect 11-year-old perspective and the subsequent impact on her adult life. As illuminating as the adult chapters navigating an interracial relationship, I had never considered until reading this story.
Infuriating, sad, and reflective, it unveils the complexities of navigating a narcissistic loved one's sobriety and finding your voice in the process.
Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi
This novel isn't just the best book of the year, but one the best book of ALL TIME. Gyasi's words have left an indelible mark on my heart.
This backlist gem weaves together the perfect blend of literary fiction layers: an immigrant narrative, an exploration of faith, and science. What truly elevated this experience for me was the brilliant narration by Bahni Turpin, whose storytelling broke my heart.
The story explores a PhD candidate delving into the roots of addiction, driven by the tragic experience of her older brother succumbing to heroin addiction after a sports injury.
The novel beautifully humanizes addiction and mental health issues through a compassionate lens, challenging societal perceptions and delving into the complexities of faith and science.
What sets this book apart is its exploration of how churches respond to mental illness and addiction, particularly within BIPOC communities.
The poignant line, "We were three black people in distress, nothing to see," encapsulates the heart of the story, challenging readers to contemplate the treatment of mental health and addiction within our church communities.
The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo
I never knew how much I would fall in love with this backlist novel, clocking in at 624 pages with seven different character perspectives where not much happens, but I loved every minute of it.
The entire story focuses on the incredible decades-long love story of David and Marilyn, who are madly in love from day one.
Now, the parents of four grown daughters, the family faces a pivotal moment with the arrival of Jonah, a child secretly given up for adoption by one of the daughters fifteen years earlier. It is a story of discovery through their new roles as grandparents, aunts, and mothers.
In many ways, this story reminded me of Parenthood, and it ignited those feelings so fiercely that I plan to reboot the TV series.
Be forewarned, this novel is quite spicy!
Shoulder Season by Christina Clancy
Did you know a Playboy FAMILY resort existed in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, and operated until the 80s?
This novel explores the unusual resort property through a coming-of-age story of nineteen-year-old Sherri Taylor, who trades her East Troy upbringing for a life as a Playboy Bunny.
As Sherri finally has financial freedom, the reader goes on quite a journey with this character which can feel messy at times, but so relatable.
The reward, though, is how Sherri views herself many years down the road, what she was trying to escape, and what ultimately she realizes made her who she was.
What fascinated me in the author's note was that many women who worked at this resort STILL have not shared about their time there because of the negative connotation that they worried they or their family would face despite this being one of the happiest moments in their lives.
Related- 2023 Summer Reading Guide
LARRY'S BEST BOOKS OF 2023
From today's transcript, here are a small portion of the best books of 2023 from Larry. We encourage readers to head to his blog, where he has documented even MORE books, including some of his honorable mentions this year.
The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
Set against the backdrop of the blueberry fields in Maine, the story unravels the mysterious disappearance of a four-year-old Native American girl.
Through the lives of migrant workers, it unfolds the struggles faced during blueberry picking and the challenges they encountered in their daily lives. It's a poignant tale of family, resilience, and a mother's unwavering love.
Maame by Jessica George
This novel exceeded all my expectations with a thought-provoking narrative that skillfully captures family, career, friendship, love, and responsibility challenges.
The protagonist, Maddie, navigates the complexities of life while attempting to embrace new experiences like dating.
However, her position within her family as the expected workhorse, responsible for caring for everyone, becomes a significant hurdle to her pursuit of happiness.
The novel artfully juxtaposes Maddie's personal and familial challenges with her desire to carve out a life that brings her joy while wrestling with the fear that such happiness may elude her.
This debut has earned its place as a standout, and I eagerly look forward to George's future works.
None of This Would Have Happened If Prince Were Alive by Carolyn Prusa
This novel easily secured a spot on my top 2023 book list, thanks to its captivating blend of humor, emotion, and the irresistible connection to the iconic Prince.
As a child of the 80s and 90s music scene, Prince's influence on my teenage years resonated deeply.
The novel, both funny and emotionally charged, follows the main character as she grapples with her husband's infidelity, a crumbling career, a challenging daughter, and the impending threat of a hurricane bearing down on her hometown.
As she faces atmospheric and emotional disasters, she tries to find the strength to overcome these challenges.
Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane
This story unfolds in Boston during the summer of 1974 amidst the forced desegregation of schools.
Despite the mother being an unsympathetic character, she fiercely cares for her kids.
When one goes missing, she embarks on a journey that challenges societal norms and digs into uncomfortable truths.
Lehane's writing creates a raw and thought-provoking narrative reminiscent of his earlier works, which I loved.
Dinosaurs by Lydia Millet
This story introduced me to the brilliance of Millett's character-driven storytelling.
Gil's spontaneous decision to walk to Arizona, where he purchases an enormous house, sets the stage for a narrative that delves into regret, grief, and the profound impact of opening oneself to connection.
In a neighborhood where Gil's house is juxtaposed with a fishbowl-like residence, the story takes an unexpected turn as a family moves in next door.
The ensuing entanglement in the family's mishaps and misadventures adds complexity to this powerful and emotional journey.
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Patchett's quiet yet powerful storytelling has consistently captivated me; this novel was no exception.
Set against the backdrop of the pandemic, the narrative unfolds as a woman, her daughters, and her husband care for their farm in Michigan.
The story takes an unexpected turn when the daughters urge their mother to reveal her past relationship with a famous actor. A beautiful exploration of love and life's unforeseen paths follows.
Patchett skillfully delves into the complexities of family dynamics, revealing that we may not fully know our parents until we hear the stories of their lives before they became our parents.
In a time when everything felt like it was unraveling for me health-wise, this book provided solace and a poignant reminder of the beauty found in unexpected places.
Search by Michelle Huneven
Written as a fictional memoir, I never would have imagined that a book about a church's search for a new preacher would be as captivating to
As a non-observant Jew, I found the discussions on theology and philosophy intriguing, not to mention the added charm of included recipes.
This novel explores how sometimes we are so rooted in a decision that we believe should be made that we can lose our perspective. It thoughtfully explores how hindsight isn't always 20/20.
Something Wild & Wonderful by Anita Kelly
This heartwarming grumpy sunshine romance book secured its well-deserved spot on the top 2023 book list.
Amid Lex's quest for solitude following job loss and family estrangement, a chance encounter with the effervescent Ben on the Pacific Crest Trail sets the stage for a transformative journey.
Anita Kelly's narrative beautifully explores the theme of taking chances and letting others in, resonating deeply with any reader who appreciates the emotional depth of a captivating love story.
We Could Be So Good by Cat Sebastian
This romance book revolves around a young man with dreams of being a reporter, working for a New York City newspaper.
His life takes an unexpected turn when he finds himself drawn to the publisher's son, a seemingly clumsy and carefree individual awaiting his destiny to take over the family business.
In a time when such relationships were neither legal nor socially accepted, the narrative explores the challenges and risks they face.
The love story unfolds timelessly, evoking the spirit of smart and witty screwball comedies from the 40s and 50s.
Despite the historical setting, Cat Sebastian crafts a remarkably modern narrative, capturing the essence of a love that transcends societal norms.
Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez
This romance book holds a special place in my heart. I have admired the author's work for years, and this novel once again showcases Jimenez's talent for blending quirky characters and Midwestern charm with profound themes.
Exploring the complexities of social anxiety, it's a tale of mistaken first impressions and challenging second encounters.
Personally, this book not only rekindled my affection for letter writing but also left me emotionally moved.
Amy's Note: I gave this novel FIVE-STARS, too. It can be read as a standalone, with only minor overlapping character moments from the Part Of Your World series.
Glitterland (Spires Book 1) by Alexis Hall
In this backlist gem, Hall steers away from the lighthearted and quirky romantic tales for which he's renowned, diving deep into the complexities of heartbreak, addiction, and the struggle for self-esteem.
This moving story explores how one can convince themselves that they're worthy of love.
Amy's Note: A Duke for a Lady by this same author was also a wonderful Regency romance I fell in love with this year.
Games and Rituals by Katherine Heiny
Heiney's talent shines throughout this captivating collection of 11 short stories, each featuring characters navigating pivotal moments in their lives.
Having loved 10 out of the 11 stories, I appreciate how consistently her writing exceeds my high expectations.
With a seamless blend of sly humor and profound emotion, this short story collection demonstrates her incredible storytelling skills.
