My Favorite Reads of 2023
And just like that, another year has come and gone. Compared to previous years, 2023 was a fairly light reading year. Unforeseen events and newly added responsibilities disrupted my daily routine and cut into my reading time, but fear not, I still managed to discover some incredible books. Six in particular stood out to me, and without further ado, I would like to acquaint you with them.
Lovelight Farms by B.K. Borison
While billed as a holiday romance, this friends-to-lovers romance featuring the much beloved fake-dating trope can honestly be enjoyed any time of year. Bursting with coziness and small-town charm, it is guaranteed to lift your spirits and have you fantasizing about moving to the country and purchasing your very own Christmas tree farm.
Beach Read by Emily Henry
Full of wit and heart, Beach Read will have you smiling and blinking away tears in equal measure. It is a story of both love and self-growth set against the picturesque backdrop of a small, lakeside community in Michigan.
Of Goblins and Gold by Emma Hamm
If you love the 1980s classic Labyrinth and have been longing for a fantasy that features a love interest à la David Bowie’s Goblin King, this is the book for you. Of Goblins and Gold follows Freya, a young mortal woman who makes a deal with the Goblin King to save her sister. To fulfill her end of the bargain, she must embark on a perilous quest that will put not only her life but also her heart on the line.
Of Shadows and Elves by Emma Hamm
It is a rare occurrence indeed when I find myself enjoying a sequel more than the original, but that is precisely what happened with Of Shadows and Elves, the follow-up to Of Goblins and Gold. From the action to the romance and world-building, this book outshines its predecessor in every respect.
Full review of Of Shadows and Elves forthcoming
Lost Kingdom by Laurel Black
I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced copy of Lost Kingdom, and I cannot wait for all of you to have it in your hands. It is a spellbinding fantasy rife with adventure, intrigue, and romance. If you are anything like me, you won’t want to put it down once you start reading it.
Blood Mercy by Vela Roth
Blood Mercy has it all: a forbidden romance, a swoon-worthy love interest, political intrigue, well-crafted characters, intricate world-building, and last but certainly not least, vampires. This book should be on every fantasy romance reader’s radar.
Full review of Blood Mercy forthcoming
Well, that does it for my favorite reads of 2023. Have you read any of these books? Let me know in the comments section below!
-Julia
P.S. You can view my favorite reads from previous years here.
P.P.S. You can buy (most of) the books from this list at Bookshop.org.
Disclosure: I am an affiliate of Bookshop.org, and I will earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you click through and make a purchase.
