As we approach the halfway mark of 2023, avid readers are already starting to compile their list of must-read books of the year.
With so many new releases hitting the shelves every week, it can be challenging to keep up with the latest and greatest literary works.
Fortunately, there are a few standout titles that have already captured the attention of readers and critics alike.
From thought-provoking non-fiction to gripping thrillers and heartwarming fiction, the best books of 2023 (so far) offer something for every type of reader.
The New Yorker, Vulture, Esquire, Good Housekeeping, and People have all published their own lists of top reads, each with their own unique recommendations.
Whether you’re looking for a page-turner to keep you up all night or a poignant memoir that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading, there’s no shortage of excellent books to choose from.
Fiction
The world of fiction has been abuzz with some of the most captivating, brilliant, and surprising works in 2023.
In this section, we will explore some of the best works of fiction that have been published so far this year.
Literary Fiction
The literary fiction genre has seen some of the most thought-provoking and engaging works this year.
One of the standout works in this genre is “The Age of Vice” by Deepti Kapoor.
This stunning crime epic starts off with a car crash that leaves five people dead, a driver who wasn’t behind the wheel, and a city on edge.
Kapoor’s prose is sharp, and the plot is gripping, making this book a must-read for fans of literary fiction.
Another notable work in this genre is “The God of Endings” by Jacqueline Holland.
This atmospheric debut novel is poised to make a mark on the dark fantasy genre.
The story follows Collette LeSange, a young woman with a gift for seeing the dead. Holland’s writing is haunting, and the world she creates is both eerie and beautiful.
Mystery & Thriller
The mystery and thriller genre has always been a popular one, and 2023 has seen some of the most exciting works in this genre.
One of the standout works is “The Last Day” by Andrew Hunter Murray.
This gripping novel takes place in a world where the sun is dying, and humanity has only 24 hours left before the end of the world.
Murray’s writing is taut, and the tension is palpable, making this book a must-read for fans of the genre.
Another notable work in this genre is “The Night She Disappeared” by Lisa Jewell.
This suspenseful novel follows the disappearance of a young couple in a small town.
Jewell’s writing is sharp, and the plot is full of twists and turns, making this book a page-turner from start to finish.
Science Fiction & Fantasy
The science fiction and fantasy genre has seen some of the most imaginative and exciting works in 2023.
One of the standout works in this genre is “The Memory of Souls” by Jenn Lyons.
This epic fantasy novel is the third book in the “A Chorus of Dragons” series.
Lyons’ world-building is unparalleled, and the characters are richly drawn, making this book a must-read for fans of the genre.
Another notable work in this genre is “The City We Became” by N.K. Jemisin.
This science fiction novel takes place in a world where cities can come alive and take on human form.
Jemisin’s writing is poetic, and the world she creates is both fantastical and grounded in reality.
This book is a must-read for fans of science fiction and fantasy.