The Books We Read in 2023
As book lovers, we love reflecting back on our favorite books of the year! From psychological thrillers to self help to a good ol fashion beach read, 2023 was full of great reads! Check out our faves and not so faves.
Kim’s Fave Read of 2023:
None of This is True by Lisa Jewell - 10/10 - A Psychological Thriller that had so many twists and turns. I loved every minute of it and can’t wait to read more by her.
Kyle’s Fave Read of 2023:
The Fourth Wing and Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros - 10/10 - If you loved Harry Potter and Hunger Games you’ll love this series!
Honorable Mentions:
The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave - 8/10 - I loved this one even if it was a bit farfetched! It’s a quick thriller that keeps you on your toes. I liked the book better than the show and had a hard time picturing Jennifer Garner as the main character.
This Naked Mind by Annie Grace - 10/10 - This was a close second for my favorite book of the year. A quit-lit book where the author gives a fresh perspective on alcohol in a non-judgmental way. Highly recommend if you’re sober curious!
The Five Star Weekend and The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand - 9/10 -My fave author for beach reads. They’re always based on Nantucket and are quick easy reads.
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides - 9/10 - The twists and turns and this psychological thriller had me shocked at the end. Loved every minute of it.
Three Simple Rules Series by Nikki Sloane - 8/10 - this series was my intro into the smutty genre and I really loved them! The characters are endearing and the storyline is steamy. Great beach reads!
The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson - 9/10 - this is a period piece about womanhood and race. It is VERY well done and great for a book club. Recommend!
It Happened One Summer and Hook, Line, and Sinker by Tessa Bailey - 7/10 - these are light beach reads I really enjoyed! The main character is so lovable and there’s a great romance storyline.
Anxious People by Fredrik Bachman - 8/10 - this one gets mixed reviews, but I loved it! While the story was unrealistic I loved the characters and life lessons. Quick, quality read!
Before She Finds Me by Heather Chavez - 8/10 - this was a great mystery that has lots of twists and turns. I was itching to find out the ending!
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby van Pelt- 10/10 - I LOVED this book! Such a great plot and brings you to tears. Love, love, love.
Book Lovers by Emily Henry- 9/10 - another great light beach read! Cute romance that keep me wanting to read.
Not Our Faves:
Lessons In Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus - 5/10 - This was a slow read for me. I wanted to love it but just couldn’t. Hoping to enjoy the movie more.
Happy Place by Emily Henry - 5/10 - This beach read was too fluffy even for me. Didn’t love the characters.
Big Summer by Jennifer Weiner - 6/10 - I usually love Jennifer Weiner but this one fell flat. Some fun story lines in a beautiful setting but didn’t love it.
Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty - 3/10 - A family drama that I was very disappointed in! The characters aren’t likeable and the plot disappoints, I’d skip it.
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano - 3/10 - some people love this, but I hated it so much I told my book club not to finish it (lol). I found it depressing without purpose. Maybe you’ll feel differently!
The Woman in Me by Britney Spears - 7/10 - this only gets a 7 because it was fascinating and quick. The writing was horrible, it read like a free flowing journal and it was sad to hear her story. Lots to unpack though!