My top reads of 2023

enter, my favorite reading year ever

Dec 31, 2023

First off, I did a little refresh of my page and I love it. I want to bring more color and variety to my life in 2024 and this was a great first step.

I entered 2023 with very few reading goals. The major one being to, I know it sounds wild…..read less.

Numbing out my life with romance books was an unhealthy habit I picked up in 2022. DON’T GET ME WRONG, I love romance books. But ignoring bad things or intrusive thoughts via reading quick reads is a sign that I’m not *thriving.*

I aimed to change that in 2023 by trying to read more of what I own, utilizing the library, and making stacks of books I wanted to tackle each month.

With that said, I’m extremely happy with most of my reading choices in 2023. I read lots of different books and enjoyed a lot of my reads. There’s always room for improvement, but I feel like I’m striking a good balance in many areas.

But without further rambling, here are my faves for 2023! There is no particular order, except the first four in the list (not graphic) are now top, hall of fame, forever favorites of mine

In Memoriam by Alice Winn
A stunning look at war, love, loss, grief, and how to stay connected during tragedy. I SOBBED at this one by the pool.

Still Life by Sarah Winman
Transported me back to my favorite place I’ve ever been, Florence. A great cast of characters, gorgeous setting, and found family.

Hello, Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
Again, cried like a baby at this one. A novel of sisters and intertwining and untangling lives.

My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante
Two friends growing up, growing apart, back together again, and apart again through various internal and external circumstances.

Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
Looks like self-help, but is more a philosophy on time and how we use it. Will be rereading in January every year (don’t hold me to that).

Kaikeyi by Vaishnavi Patel
Myth retelling, but more like myth expounding. But an Indian myth which I loved. Epic, time-spanning story on what you will do to those you love for the greater good.

Neighbor Favor by Kristina Forrest
A sweet, romance written through emails. Great anxiety rep and niche world (publishing).

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
You already know about this one.

On Beauty by Zadie Smith
Smart, witty, funny, dark look at academia and those in its orbit.

Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld
Stayed up until 1am to finish. Will become a comfort read. Guest star and “SNL” writer hit it off.

Congratulations, The Best Is Over by R. Eric Thomas
The funniest, most poignant writer that I can think of at this time in history.

Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
Read this in maybe 24 hours. I love an overwhelming reading experience and this gave me that.

We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman
Wow, lots of tears this year! But a short, gun punch of a story on friendship and grief. A friend has her best friend who is dying of cancer move to the hospice close to her.

Out On a Limb by Hannah Bonam-Young
This is the only time I’ve seen an accidental pregnancy trope not only work but shine.

& that’s a wrap! What a great year of reading. Next up is my year recap which I’m excited (and daunted) about!