Best Fiction Books of 2023
Congratulations to me! For the third consecutive year, I've achieved my annual reading goal. Each year, I ambitiously set a target of reading one more book than the previous year's total. In 2022, I read 67 books, setting the bar at 68 for this year – and I'm thrilled to announce that I've read a total of 68 books exactly!
My theme for this year was "Bangers Only", a commitment to selecting and immersing myself exclusively in books that truly resonate as outstanding, and I think I did a pretty good job if I do say so myself.
In this blog post, I'm excited to share with you the 14 fiction books that earned a coveted 5-star rating from me this year. Except for one, I have written detailed reviews for each of these titles in previous posts, and I'll include links for you to explore my in-depth thoughts.
I take pride in the broad spectrum of genres I try and the diverse array of books I read. This list encompasses a range from spine-tingling horror and imaginative fantasy to fast-paced thrillers and witty social commentaries – all deserving of a resounding 5 stars.
(To better appreciate my selections, you might want to familiarize yourself with my star rating system. It will give you insight into the criteria I use to bestow a book with the highest accolade of 5 stars.)
Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister is a book that not only earned its place in my exclusive 5-star list this year but also redefined my expectations for the thriller genre. McAllister masterfully weaves a captivating narrative that plays with the concept of time in a way that is both innovative and utterly absorbing. The story, which revolves around a mother witnessing a crime that involves her son, unfolds in reverse, revealing layers of complexity and moral dilemmas that kept me on the edge of my seat. The author's skillful handling of suspense and character development transforms this novel into more than just a thriller; it's a profound exploration of fate, family, and the choices that define us. Wrong Place Wrong Time is a must-read for anyone seeking a book that is not only thrilling but thought-provoking, making it a standout in this year's literary offerings.
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin is a rare gem that deserves every bit of the 5-star rating I've given it this year. Zevin's novel is a beautiful tapestry of friendship, creativity, and the immersive world of video game development. The story, centered around two friends, Sam and Sadie, who find solace and expression in gaming, is a masterful blend of emotional depth and cultural insight. Zevin’s writing is both eloquent and accessible, weaving themes of love, ambition, and the complexities of human connection with a backdrop of the evolving gaming industry.
This book isn’t just for gamers; in fact, unless you count the 2001 Shrek 2 Game Cube video game, I’m not a gamer by any stretch of the imagination and I still loved it. This book is a poignant exploration of the human condition, showcasing how our passions shape our lives and relationships. Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow is an unforgettable journey that resonates deeply, making it one of the most compelling reads of the year.
(This is the only book without a full review.)
Into the Drowning Deep by Mira Grant is a thrilling, 5-star read that masterfully blends horror, science, and adventure into a gripping narrative. Grant's novel plunges readers into the depths of the Mariana Trench, where a crew embarks on a perilous expedition to uncover the truth about a mythical sea creature. The story excels in its detailed scientific realism, making the terrifying premise all the more believable. Grant's skill in character development ensures that each individual aboard the ship is not just a potential victim, but a fully-realized person, making their fates all the more impactful. The suspense is relentless, the horror is chilling, and the ocean setting adds a claustrophobic, unescapable tension. Into the Drowning Deep is a must-read for fans of horror and science fiction alike, offering a perfect blend of intellectual intrigue and heart-pounding terror. It stands out as a truly exceptional book in this year's reading list.
The Humans by Matt Haig is an exceptional book that I had the pleasure of awarding a 5-star rating this year. This novel is a unique blend of humor, philosophy, and heartwarming storytelling, presented through the eyes of an alien who finds himself on Earth, in a human body, struggling to understand the complexities of human life. Haig's writing is witty, poignant, and deeply reflective, offering insightful observations on the human condition, our societal norms, and the beauty and absurdity of everyday life. The narrative, while often humorous, also delves into profound themes of love, identity, and what it truly means to be human. The Humans is a thought-provoking and uplifting journey that resonates with anyone who has ever pondered their place in the world. This book is not just a story; it's an experience that leaves a lasting impression, making it a standout read of the year.
Stone Cold Fox by Rachel Koller Croft is a compelling novel that effortlessly earned a 5-star rating from me this year. This book is an exhilarating blend of high-stakes drama, intricate plotting, and a deep dive into the glitz and glamour of the elite social circles. Koller Croft crafts a fascinating narrative centered around Bea, a woman with a meticulously planned scheme to ascend the social ladder, which is as cunning as it is daring. The author's writing is sharp, engaging, and full of twists that keep the reader guessing until the very end.
What sets Stone Cold Fox apart is its exploration of themes such as ambition, deception, and the pursuit of power, all wrapped in a stylish, fast-paced package. This novel is not just an entertaining read; it's a provocative look at what people are willing to do to achieve their dreams. Stone Cold Fox is a must-read for those who love a story with a strong, complex female protagonist and a plot that captivates and surprises in equal measure.
This next 5-star award is not just for one book, but three—the only series I read this year. The three books Jade City, Jade War, and Jade Legacy by Fonda Lee are extraordinary novels that have rightfully earned a 5-star rating on my list this year. These books are the 'Green Bone Saga,' a series that masterfully blends fantasy, crime, and family drama. Set in a world where jade confers incredible martial powers to those with the training and heritage to wield it, these novels explore the complex dynamics of the Kaul family, who lead one of the two crime syndicates vying for control of their jade-rich city.
Fonda Lee's world-building is exceptional, creating a vivid and unique setting that is both familiar and fantastical. The characters are deeply developed, with each family member and their rivals depicted with intricate layers of loyalty, ambition, and conflict. The action sequences are brilliantly written, immersing readers in thrilling and well-crafted fight scenes.
These are more than just fantasy novels; they are a powerful exploration of themes like tradition, honor, and the cost of power. Fonda Lee has created a compelling narrative that is rich in detail and full of political intrigue, making these books a standout reading experience. For fans of fantasy looking for a fresh and exciting world, the 'Green Bone Saga' is an absolute must-read.
Everything Sad is Untrue by Daniel Nayeri is a profound and moving novel that easily earned a 5-star rating from me. This autobiographical tale, told through the eyes of a young Iranian refugee, Khosrou (whom everyone calls Daniel), is a patchwork of memories, stories, and rich cultural history. Nayeri's narrative style is unique and captivating, blending elements of Persian mythology with the stark realities of a refugee's journey.
What makes this book truly stand out is its raw honesty and the beautiful, almost lyrical prose that captures the essence of displacement and the search for identity. It was so good I was genuinely impressed someone was able to write it. The storytelling is not linear; it weaves back and forth in time, mirroring the way memories and stories come to us. Nayeri's ability to infuse humor and warmth into difficult topics is remarkable, offering a narrative that is both heartbreaking and heartwarming.
Everything Sad is Untrue is a testament to the power of storytelling as a means of survival and a bridge between cultures. It challenges readers to consider their own narratives and the stories we all carry. This book is not just autofiction; it’s a celebration of resilience, the richness of culture, and the unbreakable human spirit, making it a truly unforgettable read.
The Trees by Percival Everett is a brilliant novel that undoubtedly deserves the 5-star rating I've given it. Everett's work is a clever blend of satire, mystery, and social commentary, set against the backdrop of a small Mississippi town where a series of bizarre, racially charged murders are eerily reminiscent of historical lynchings. The narrative is both darkly humorous and profoundly impactful, as Everett masterfully tackles themes of racial injustice and America's troubled history with a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. His characters, particularly the detectives sent to investigate the murders, are richly drawn, providing both levity and depth to the story. The Trees stands out for its bold approach to addressing serious issues through sharp wit and an engaging plot, making it not just a compelling read, but an important one.
In My Dreams I Hold a Knife by Ashley Winstead is a gripping, 5-star thriller that stands out for its masterful storytelling and complex character development. Winstead weaves a tantalizing tale of suspense centered around a group of college friends, reunited years after graduation, only to confront the haunting secrets and unresolved tensions from their past. The novel's strength lies in its intricate plot, full of unexpected twists and dark revelations that keep the reader engrossed from start to finish.
Winstead expertly delves into the psychology of her characters, revealing the multifaceted nature of friendships, guilt, and ambition. The atmospheric setting of a university campus adds an extra layer of nostalgia and tension, making the story even more compelling. In My Dreams I Hold a Knife is not just a suspenseful whodunit; it's a deep exploration of the lengths to which people will go to preserve their image and the impact of the past on the present. This book is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted, thought-provoking story.
If I absolutely had to choose just one, I would probably say this is the best novel I read this year. Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll is a thrilling and thought-provoking novel that rightly earned a 5-star rating on my list. Knoll, known for her ability to weave complex narratives, presents a story that is both a gripping thriller and a deep dive into the nuances of contemporary societal issues. Set against the backdrop of a 1970s university campus, the novel explores the aftermath of a series of sorority killings, offering a fresh perspective on a true-crime inspired tale.
What makes this book stand out is Knoll's skillful portrayal of multidimensional characters, each navigating their own struggles and secrets, which adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. Her critique of society's fascination with serial killers, especially in the media, is both insightful and unsettling. Bright Young Women is not just about the thrill of the plot; it's a masterclass in character development and social commentary. This book is a must-read for those who appreciate novels that are as intellectually engaging as they are suspenseful.
In The Spirit Bares Its Teeth by Andrew Joseph White, readers are transported to Gothic England in 1883, a setting ripe with dark fantasy and horror. This novel stands out for its masterful blend of light magic and ghostly elements, creating an atmospheric read that's both haunting and compelling. White's writing is particularly notable for its depth and insight into complex themes such as queerness and misogyny, presenting them in a way that's both innovative and thought-provoking. The way he navigates these topics within the Victorian-era setting, without explicitly using modern terminologies, adds a layer of intrigue and encourages a deeper understanding and connection to the characters and their experiences.
One of the most captivating aspects of this novel is its pacing – driven by a compelling mystery that makes it almost impossible to put down. The characters are richly developed, each with their own unique and compelling story, drawing the reader deeper into the world White has created. The book's ability to evoke a strong emotional connection, combined with its exploration of significant and timely themes, makes it a standout in this year's reading list. A well-deserved five stars for this hauntingly beautiful and thought-provoking read.
Fledgling, by Octavia E. Butler, is a compelling and innovative addition to the vampire genre, seamlessly blending elements of science fiction with Gothic horror. The story centers on Shori Matthews, a seemingly young amnesiac girl who discovers she is actually a genetically modified vampire. Shori's unique heritage, a fusion of human and vampire DNA, grants her distinctive abilities, including being able to withstand sunlight. Butler masterfully explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of power dynamics through Shori's journey of self-discovery. The narrative delves into the intricacies of vampiric communities and their symbiotic relationships with humans, challenging traditional vampire lore with a fresh, thought-provoking perspective.
The novel stands out for its exploration of race, sexuality, and consent, handled with Butler's characteristic nuance and depth. Shori's character development is a highlight of the book, as she evolves from a vulnerable and confused individual into a strong, autonomous being, all the while navigating the moral and ethical dilemmas of her existence. Fledgling is not just a thrilling vampire tale; it's a profound commentary on the human condition, making it a must-read and deserving of a 5-star rating. Butler's final novel, it serves as a testament to her unparalleled ability to weave socially relevant themes into captivating narratives.
Whew, that’s the end, folks. I hope you've found inspiration for your next great read. Each of these titles has left an indelible mark on me, and I'm eager to see if they resonate with you in the same way. Did I convince you to pick up any of these novels? Let me know in the comments below.
Also, I NEED to know… what were your 5-star books of the year???
Stay tuned for my next post, where I'll dive into my 5-star NONFICTION books :)
