These are the best books to read in 2023 that you need to put on your TBR list.
There are some books that after reading them, you're left feeling altered in some way. These are those unforgettable books that stay etched in your memory for months, and sometimes even years afterwards. I have this feeling about a few books and they come in all sorts of genres—from a gripping horror to a lighthearted romance.
While I'm a huge thriller book fan, it's always fun to dip into different genres every once in a while.
If you're looking for the most anticipated books of 2023 that will stay with you, you've come to the right place. Many of these are books that have received raving reviews on Goodreads, or that have been praised by avid readers and book clubs who were captivated by the stories.
These are the best books to read in 2023 to keep your tbr bookshelf stocked.
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1. The Housemaid
This gripping mystery is a highly anticipated read, placing it at the top of the 2023 TBR list. The story is about a housekeeper with a criminal past who works for a rich woman, where everything is not as it seems.
I love a captivating thriller read with twists and turns, and this novel promises just that.
2. Wrong Place Wrong Time
A shocking murder has changed a woman's life forever, but what if she could stop the murder before it happens? Every morning, she wakes up a day earlier, giving her more time to potentially stop a murder that hasn't happened yet.
The plot of this story is different—it's incredibly intriguing and should definitely be on your reading list this year.
3. Happy Place by Emily Henry
Named one of the most anticipated books of 2023, I couldn't leave this novel out. After reading Emily Henry's Book Lovers, I knew I had to get this book for the summer.
A couple who breaks up goes on their annual trip to the cottage with their best friends for a relaxing getaway, but they haven't told their friends yet.
This romance is the perfect lighthearted, summer read when relaxing by a lake at the cabin or on the beach.
4. The Whispers by Ashley Audrain
This mystery thriller is the mysterious tale about the Loverly family, whose young son ends up in a comma after falling out of a window, leading their friends and neighbors to question their own role in what led up to the tragic event.
If you love to solve a good mystery with twists and turns, this is the book for you.
5. Every Summer After by Carley Fortune
Romances make for the perfect beach day reads, which is why I couldn't forget about this novel by Carley Fortune.
A woman returns to her hometown after a tragic event, only to be faced with her ex and their undeniable connection. There is nothing like the story of an old flame reignited, and after reading the reviews, I have high hopes for this book!
6. Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel
Winner of the Goodreads Choice Award for the best science fiction, this book will be the page-turner you can't put down.
The novel explores travel and love, in a story that takes you from Vancouver Island in 1912 to a moon colony, 500 years into the future. With thousands of 5-star reviews on Goodreads, you won't want to miss this enthralling read.
7. Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak
This thrilling horror follows the story of Mallory Quinn, a woman fresh out of rehab who takes a job babysitting a young boy with a few disturbing secrets.
You can't beat a good horror and as an avid reader of horrors by the likes of Stephen King, this is on the top of my tbr list for the year.
8. The Bookshop By The Bay By Pamela Kelley
Sometimes, all you need is a light, escapist novel to read and this is one you'll definitely want to have in your book bag for 2023.
High-profile lawyer Jess, finds out her husband has been having an affair with his assistant, leading her to pack her bags and move back to her childhood home in Cape Cod with her 30-year old daughter.
9. Someone Else's Bucket List By Amy T. Matthews
This story follows the story of an introverted woman who's sister, a successful influencer, passes away—leaving her on a journey to complete her sister's bucket list for the world to see.
While initially heartbreaking, this story shines a light on the hope that can come from the tragedy that is loss.
10. The Sweetheart List by Jill Shalvis
A story about a woman who changes her life after everything falls to pieces, this is the light, romantic story that will leave you feeling optimistic and hopeful.
Harper moves back to Lake Tahoe to follow her dreams of opening up her own bakery, where she meets Bodie, a moody bar owner, and Ivy, a teenage runaway who shows her a new perspective on life and starting over.
11. The Ferryman By Justin Cronin
On a hidden island utopia, a group of survivors begin to uncover the truths behind their way of life and the island—where everything is not as it seems.
When it comes to the best books to read in 2023, this is one of my top books. I am so excited about this book and absolutely love how intriguing and mysterious the plot is.
12. Just Another Missing Person By Gillian McAllister
A novel filled with twists and turns, I couldn't leave this riveting novel by Gillian McAllister off of the list.
"What will she do ?
There’s a man out there. His weapon isn’t a gun, or a knife. It’s a secret."
Secrets, mistakes, and uncovered truths—this book promises it all making it a go-to read when you want to unwind with a thrilling mystery.
Those are 12 of the best books to read in 2023 to keep you reading all summer and year long. What are some of your current favorite reads of the year?
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