Top 5 Must-Read Books for Every Book Lover in 2023
Are you ready to escape reality and dive into some thrilling literary adventures?
Look no further!
We’ve compiled a list of the top 5 must-read books that will transport you to new worlds, challenge your perspectives, and keep you on the edge of your seat.
Whether you’re a seasoned bookworm or just starting your reading journey, these titles are guaranteed to ignite your imagination and leave you wanting more.
So grab a cozy blanket, a cup of tea, and let’s get reading!
A Dangerous Business by Jane Smiley
This engrossing historical narrative is set in Monterey during the 1850s and centers around Eliza, a widow who supports herself as a prostitute.
Despite her profession, Eliza is content with her life and values her independence over being trapped in an abusive marriage.
However, when a string of murders targeting other prostitutes occurs, Eliza and her confidante, Jean, take it upon themselves to uncover the truth, as law enforcement displays little interest in solving the case.
Smiley’s unique style of challenging conventional notions about women who have lost their virtue adds depth to the era and its traditions.
The Circus Train by Amita Parikh
Parikh’s first novel depicts a captivating romance that unfolds against the backdrop of a traveling circus and the atrocities of World War II.
Lena, a young woman with a disability and the daughter of a troubled illusionist named Theo, meets Alexandre, a tortured Jewish refugee who is also an outsider.
As the Nazis advance, the circus performers must navigate betrayal and devastating loss, culminating in a high-stakes finale where they must balance spinning plates.
Despite the challenges they face, the story’s ultimate message is one of hope: discovering one’s true self and true love is the most extraordinary wonder of all.
Really Good, Actually by Monica Heisey
Maggie, a Ph.D. student, is struggling in various aspects of her life. Despite being only 29 years old, she has already gone through a divorce that lasted for 608 days.
To cope with her emotions, she turns to late-night burgers, daydreams of meeting her ex while out with Harry Styles, and seeks momentary satisfaction through dating apps.
While her friends attempt to offer her advice, such as reminding her to shower and advising against bleaching her hair, she must navigate her journey of self-discovery following heartbreak.
This debut novel by a savvy TV writer delivers a cringe-worthy yet amusing portrayal of Maggie’s experiences that ultimately reveals unexpected moments of emotional resonance.
Big Swiss by Jen Beagin
As Greta diligently transcribes her boss’s therapy sessions, she becomes intrigued by one of his patients, a Swiss gynecologist who is unhappily married.
Despite her initial annoyance with the woman’s insufferable behavior, Greta finds herself drawn to her and becomes increasingly fixated on her.
One day, Greta unexpectedly meets the gynecologist and pretends not to recognize her, despite knowing her voice all too well.
They begin an illicit affair, and Greta finds herself caught up in a web of lies and deceit as she tries to keep their relationship a secret.
As their relationship deepens, Greta begins to question her own motives and the morality of her actions.
She becomes consumed by her obsession with the gynecologist, unable to let go even as she realizes the damage she is causing to both herself and others.
Through sharp observations of the characters and their interactions, this darkly humorous satire explores the complexities of human relationships and the lengths we will go to fulfill our desires, even at the cost of our own moral compass.
The story delves into the darker aspects of human nature, challenging readers to confront their own biases and assumptions about love, sex, and power.
My What If Year by Alisha Fernandez Miranda
Making significant changes in one’s life can be daunting, especially when there are children to care for, a spouse to support, and a demanding career to manage.
Despite these challenges, the author of this captivating and accessible memoir manages to take a courageous step towards self-discovery by taking a year off to pursue various internships.
Through her adventures, she demonstrates that sometimes, the only way to move forward is to uproot everything and take bold steps towards personal growth.
The author’s journey is a testament to the power of taking risks and stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
With an unrelenting determination to make meaningful changes in her life, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery that leads her to explore various career paths.
Along the way, she encounters a myriad of challenges, but she perseveres, fueled by a deep desire to create a fulfilling life that aligns with her passions and values.
As the author shares her story, readers are drawn into her world, where they witness the ups and downs of her journey.
They witness the moments of self-doubt, the exhilaration of new experiences, and the triumph of overcoming obstacles.
Through it all, the author’s candid and relatable voice resonates with readers, inspiring them to take their own steps towards personal growth and transformation.
In this memoir, the author’s message is clear: change is possible, no matter how difficult it may seem.
By taking a year off and pursuing internships with gusto, she was able to discover new passions and create a life that fulfilled her in ways she never thought possible.
Her story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the willingness to take risks, even when the outcome is uncertain.
Vincent Salera
Founder @ World's Best Story™ amplifier of creativity & fun!
