Greetings, fellow literary wanderers! As I sit here in my cozy nook surrounded by the mystical glow of fairy lights, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible odyssey that has been my bookish escapade in the fantastical year of 2023. Join me, dear reader, as we embark on a whimsical journey through enchanted pages, where dragons of prose soar, and the landscapes of imagination stretch as far as the eye can read!
Buckle up, because these books didn’t just make the cut; they carved a permanent spot in my heart and bookshelf. Without further do, here are my Top 10 Reads of 2023.
TOP 10
“Alex” Stern, an unconventional newcomer at Yale, emerges from a troubled past in the outskirts of Los Angeles. Despite a turbulent history involving sketchy relationships and a haunting unsolved crime, she’s granted an unexpected opportunity—a full scholarship to Yale. The catch? It comes with a task: monitoring the clandestine activities of Yale’s infamous secret societies. These seemingly prestigious groups, known for harboring future influential figures, conceal occult practices that transcend even the wildest imaginations. As Alex navigates this enigmatic assignment, she grapples with the mysteries of her past and the reasons behind her unlikely selection.
So, here’s the scoop, folks—I picked up this book, fully prepared to give it the side-eye. I mean, Urban Fantasy? And the main character’s name is Alex Stern? Really? Now, I’m sitting here wondering why on earth I even bothered cracking it open. But hey, who cares, because guess what? It turned out to be one of my absolute favorite reads of 2023. Those Gothic Noir vibes were unexpected! They were like a sprinkle of magic dust, turning an ordinary story into something extraordinary. Dark alleys, mysterious figures, and a dash of the supernatural—what’s not to love? Alex Stern – The name may not have won any creativity awards, but hold your judgment because this Alex is a gem. A quirky and intriguing character with a past so tangled. Suddenly, my scepticism did a U-turn, and I found myself cheering for Alex like they were the underdog in an epic fantasy tournament. So, here I am, eating my words and admitting that this unexpected book has become a surprising love affair. Who knew that a reluctant Urban Fantasy reader like me could be won over by Gothic Noir vibes and a character named Alex Stern? Life’s full of surprises, and this book turned out to be one of the best. So, if you’re ever second-guessing a book, just remember—sometimes, the most unexpected reads end up stealing your heart.
TOP 9
The Alexandrian Society, the elite custodians of ancient knowledge, holds the keys to wealth, power, and prestige. Every decade, six extraordinary magicians are chosen for initiation, and the latest contenders include Libby Rhodes and Nico de Varona, masters of physical control, Reina Mori, a naturalist attuned to the language of life, Parisa Kamali, a telepath delving into the subconscious, Callum Nova, an empath with inner influence, and Tristan Caine, who perceives reality beyond illusions. Guided by the enigmatic Atlas Blakely, they have a year to prove their mettle in various impossible subjects. Survival is the game, initiation the prize, with the fates of these six potential initiates hanging in the balance.
In a realm of hyped-up expectations and a seemingly lackluster score, I stumbled upon a book that proved to be a hidden gem, defying its initial reception. This literary adventure, entrenched in psychology, philosophy, and scientific theories about magic, delves into various mindsets, revealing layers of complexity that surpassed my expectations. The narrative unfolds with a depth that goes beyond mere storytelling. It becomes an exploration of the human psyche, an intricate dance between philosophical musings and the enchantment of magic. For those who relish the interplay of these elements, the book emerges as a captivating journey that resonates on a profound level. One of its most remarkable facets lies in the creation of characters—characters that transcend the mundane and delve into the realms of complexity and intrigue. Within these pages resides one of the most intricate and fascinating characters I’ve encountered in literature, a testament to the author’s skill in crafting a narrative that extends beyond the ordinary. So, for fellow epic fantasy enthusiasts like me, let’s cast aside assumptions and embark on a journey that transcends genres—a journey that promises to stimulate the mind and touch the heart. (Check out my Review.)
TOP 8
Bast knows how to bargain. The give-and-take of a negotiation is as familiar to him as the in-and-out of breathing; to watch him trade is to watch an artist at work. But even a master’s brush can slip. When he accepts a gift, taking something for nothing, Bast’s whole world is knocked askew, for he knows how to bargain—but not how to owe. From dawn to midnight over the course of a single day, follow the Kingkiller Chronicle’s most charming fae as he schemes and sneaks, dancing into trouble and back out again with uncanny grace. The Narrow Road Between Desires is Bast’s story. In it he traces the old ways of making and breaking, following his heart even when doing so goes against his better judgement. After all, what good is caution if it keeps him from danger and delight?
Patrick Rothfuss stands as the pinnacle of storytelling for me, and I find it hard to imagine anyone changing that. His narratives have been a lifeline, guiding me through the darkest of times. And so, this story, much like every other masterpiece he has crafted, deserves to be savored. This narrative is more than just a tale; it unfolds like a symphony, each word carefully composed to create a mesmerizing melody. Rothfuss’ writing style is reminiscent of a familiar tune, an unforgettable melody that lingers in the mind and tugs at the heart. He orchestrates his words with precision, infusing a musicality that resonates deeply with his readers. In just a few strokes of his pen, Rothfuss conveys as much emotion and depth as others do in extensive passages. He dances effortlessly between lyricism and nimbleness, capturing the very essence of Bast’s people. It’s a literary dance that mirrors the grace and complexity of a perfectly executed composition. While Auris’ story may have held a special place in my heart, this narrative earns its spot in my Top 10. Each word, a brushstroke on the canvas of emotions, paints a picture that is uniquely Rothfuss. So, let’s raise a metaphorical glass to the maestro himself, for weaving tales that not only transport us but also leave an indelible mark on the symphony of our lives. (Check out my Review)
TOP 7
Samantha is an outsider at Warren University. She is actually repelled by the other members of her writing group, an insufferably rich clique of girls who all go by the name Bunny. However, she receives an invitation to a Bunny party, and in a strange way, Samantha feels drawn to the front door, crossing the threshold into the rabbit hole. As Samantha delves deeper into the eerie yet sugary-sweet world of the Bunny cult, the boundaries of reality begin to blur, and soon she finds herself in mortal danger…
Why on earth is this book on a best list? I mean, seriously, it’s ranked higher than Patrick Rothfuss and other fantastic authors? How does that even happen? Well, here’s the thing—this book has set up camp in my brain, and I have no clue how to evict it. “Bunny” is not your run-of-the-mill novel; it’s more like a literary acid trip down the rabbit hole. If you’re in the mood for a story that flips the bird to convention, gives a bear hug to the absurd, and leaves you questioning the sanity of everyone involved, including yourself, then hop on board and join the Bunny cult. Just a word of caution—don’t be shocked if you suddenly develop a hankering for carrots and find yourself pondering the profound meaning of bunny hops. And, oh, if you decide to give this book a whirl, keep it on the down-low. Don’t go around broadcasting that you enjoyed it; you might just freak out the uninitiated. Because, you know, admitting you liked “Bunny” might have people questioning your taste and wondering if you’ve been spending too much time in Wonderland. (Check out my Review)
TOP 6
The war is over, and army priest Tomas Piety heads home with Sergeant Bloody Anne at his side. But things have changed while he was away: his crime empire has been stolen and the people of Ellinburg–his people–have run out of food and hope and places to hide. Tomas sets out to reclaim what was his with help from Anne, his brother, Jochan, and his new gang: the Pious Men. But when he finds himself dragged into a web of political intrigue once again, everything gets more complicated. As the Pious Men fight shadowy foreign infiltrators in the back-street taverns, brothels, and gambling dens of Tomas’s old life, it becomes clear:
The war is only just beginning.
Ah, Grimdark, my perennial favorite subgenre, and lo and behold, I stumbled upon a gem early in the year that maintained its brilliance till the very end. The story feels uncomfortably real, like you’re convinced this actually happened. Captivating, atmospherically dense, and narrated with vivid language— the author has masterfully inaugurated a new fantasy series that leaves you craving more. The world crafted is a grim and archaic one, steeped in darkness, with its people embodying violence and immorality that lends an unsettling realism. The narrative is rife with swearing, fighting, and killing, with former soldiers grappling with war traumas, often teetering on the edge. Ellinburg, the society depicted, is a mix of hard-working artisans, criminals, and decadent low nobles, immersed in polytheism. Corruption oozes from the governor and his city guard, education is scarce, the wealth gap is vast, and life is a harsh struggle away from the capital, devoid of idealism and naivety. Despite this grim backdrop, the author excels in giving each character multi-dimensional depth and distinct personalities. Tomas Piety, the narrator, stands out with an uncommon strength of will, morality, and assertiveness, offering a refreshing twist within this setting. Unfortunately, this book is flying under the radar, and I believe more Grimdark enthusiasts should dive into it. Tomas Piety is a genuine jerk that you absolutely need to get to know. (Check out my Review)
TOP 5
The days of adventure are passed for Auric Manteo. Retired to the countryside and isolated with his scars and riches, he no longer delves into forbidden ruins seeking dark wisdom and treasure. But just as old nightmares begin plaguing his sleep, he receives an urgent summons back to that old life. To save his only daughter, he must return to the place of his greatest trauma: the haunted Barrowlands. Along with a group of inexperienced companions and an old soldier, he must confront the dangers of the ancient and wicked Djao civilization. He has survived fell beasts, insidious traps, and deadly hazards before. But how can he contend with the malice of a bloodthirsty living god?
This was probably the book I’d been waiting for, a literary treasure that kicked off my reading journey in 2023. Let me tell you, it was a voyage I’ll carry with me forever. Finally, a Diablo-esque book that made my gamer heart beat faster than ever before. How do you review a book that leaves you utterly speechless? If you’re in the market for a tale of one man’s quest to save humanity from impending doom, look no further. Auric’s mission is a race against time. If the plague persists on its current trajectory, humanity faces extinction. Now, I know this might sound a bit cliché or maybe overdone, but Shel breathed new life into this trope by giving it a deeply personal twist. This isn’t just about saving humanity for humanity’s sake; it’s about saving Auric’s own daughter. Despite their estrangement, the emotional impact of this plot thread added a profound layer to the story. It transformed the narrative from a generic save-the-world scenario into a compelling saga about saving his daughter—and that resonated with me. The situation seems bleak, and it feels hopeless. But my heart was full of emotions and love for the characters and the story. I’m realizing now that I absolutely need to pen a full-fledged review to encourage more people to dive into this wonderful book. Watch out for it; I’m on a mission to spread the word about this gem!
TOP 4
On runners glide proud merchant ships across the Sand Sea to Sharakhai, cradle of civilization and home of the Twelve Kings. Centuries ago, the gods themselves bestowed unimaginable power upon them, and since then, they have ruled the wondrous city with an iron hand. At just 19 years old, orphan Çeda has risen to become a cunning thief and celebrated arena fighter. Yet, she will never forget that night when her mother was executed in the name of the Twelve Kings. Seeking revenge, Çeda allies herself with various shady characters and becomes embroiled in a conspiracy where her mother’s death plays a much larger role than she could have ever imagined.
As readers, let’s be honest—book covers often play a significant role in our purchasing decisions. After all, don’t the blurbs all sound somewhat similar? This cover, in particular, is the reason I delved into this series. And as evident from its ranking at number 4 in 2023, sometimes a good cover hints at an equally good book. Now, who doesn’t relish tackling challenging puzzles and experience sheer delight upon solving them? That’s precisely the sensation this book evokes—a special dopamine rush as you gradually unravel the answers. What truly transpired on that fateful night 400 years ago when the gods and the Twelve Kings forged their pact? While stability and peace have since reigned among the desert tribes, at what cost? And what enigma shrouds the death of Çeda’s mother, Ahya? These questions unearth surprising and even alarming truths, turning Çeda’s life upside down and placing it in jeopardy. Bradley P. Beaulieu has not only demonstrated with this book that I adore his storytelling style but has also convinced me that I need to read more from him. Perfect for readers who savor slow-burning narratives, inviting them to immerse themselves in a hot and sandy world without the discomfort of sand between their toes. By the way, the author has also released a new book, and believe it or not, the cover is even more stunning—perhaps indicative of an equally captivating story within? (Check out my Review)
TOP 3
Athena Liu is a literary darling and June Hayward is literally nobody. White lies – When Athena dies in a freak accident, June steals her unpublished manuscript and publishes it as her own under the ambiguous name Juniper Song. Dark humour – But as evidence threatens June’s stolen success, she will discover exactly how far she will go to keep what she thinks she deserves. Deadly consequences…
What happens next is entirely everyone else’s fault.
Alright, I confess—I’m a total R.F. Kuang fan. The Poppy War series was one of my first forays into English literature (yes, hello from Schnitzelland), and it emotionally drained me back then. So, let me shout it from the rooftops—read The Poppy War series, even if the first half of the first book is a bit meh. After the fantastic start with the author, I craved more, and post-Babel, another stellar book delving into race and translation, Yellowface made its way into my top three. And let me tell you, it’s there for a reason. An absurd tale that unveils the secrets of the publishing industry in such a riveting way hasn’t been seen before, or at least not this intriguingly written. The story also underscores that there’s often more than one side to a story or a person; everything is much more multifaceted. Even our beloved authors aren’t always perfect. Maybe even R.F. Kuang 😉 This tightly written, anxiety-inducing, and often downright funny novel exposes how these publishing trends, these racist roots, make it ridiculously easy for the protagonist, June, to not only hijack POC author Athena Liu’s work but also her culture and her life. Especially in the wake of scandals like review bombings, this book couldn’t be more timely. A narrative that one simply must have read for oneself.
Alright, here’s a brief pause. I was in the midst of jotting down my last two books and had to hit the brakes. While penning the text for my second favorite read, emotions surged within me as if I were reliving it in that very moment. Yes, my second spot belongs to a book that will forever be one of my all-time favorites. Unable to resist, I had to do it—I bumped this book to my number one spot. It wouldn’t be fair to my feelings not to give it that position. So, in the eleventh hour, the last two books were swapped. I adore both of these stories.
TOP 2
The war is over, and the enemy has won. In Jia, where magic has almost vanished, the northern Egril hordes launch a surprise attack, overpowering the resistance. Kings and leaders await banishment or execution, the warriors are slaughtered, and the people endure Egril rule. Jia’s heroes have fallen, but hope lingers. The fate of the kingdom rests on unexpected shoulders—a schoolboy terrorist, a crippled Shulka warrior and his son, a desperate single mother, and Tinnstra, disgraced daughter of the Shulka’s late leader, now killed by Egril hands.
Ah… Here I am, smiling at a cruel tale that has stirred so much blood, hatred, and love. This series undoubtedly claims a spot in my Top 5 fantasy reads of all time. Few characters have managed to emotionally captivate me as these have—Tinnstra, Yas, Jax, and Dren. Names that will never fade from my memory, names that will forever hold a piece of me. In crafting Tinnstra, Yas, Jax, and the evolving Dren, Shackle doesn’t just tell a military fantasy; he delves deep into the human psyche. Each character is a tapestry of contradictions, unveiling layers of complexity that expose the scars and vulnerabilities beneath the facade of stoicism. Navigating the labyrinth of human emotions, the author presents a cast that feels authentic and relatable, even in the fantastical setting. Mike Shackle’s “We Are the Dead” stands as a triumph of military fantasy—a magnum opus exploring the human condition within the crucible of war. With masterfully crafted prose, emotionally resonant characters, and a relentless exploration of the military ethos, this epic serves as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. Shackle hasn’t just given us a compelling narrative; he’s engraved a timeless saga that will linger in the minds and hearts of readers long after the final page has been turned. This is one of those books that must capture the hearts of every fantasy reader—a story so vivid that I can envision it on the big screen, thanks to the incredibly authentic characters. It’s no exaggeration when I say I love this story. Thank you for this, Mike Shackle!
And now, I have to get a bit cheeky. But seriously, if you haven’t read this story yet, you’re real goofballs 😀 (Check out my Review)
TOP 1
This is the story of Sam and Sadie. It’s not a romance, but it is about love. When Sam catches sight of Sadie at a crowded train station one winter morning he is catapulted back to the brief time they spent playing together as children. Their unique spark is instantly reignited. What comes next is a story of friendship and rivalry, fame and creativity, betrayal and tragedy, perfect worlds and imperfect ones. And, ultimately, our need to connect: to be loved and to love.
“Video games don’t make people violent, but maybe they falsely give you the idea that you can be a hero.”
I don’t want to write a review because I could never express what I would like to express. But let it be said that every human being has a story, a suffering that weighs him down and that are the reasons why we act the way we do, even if it can sometimes hurt other people.
As this wonderful reading year comes to a close, I can’t help but feel a mix of joy and a tad bit of sadness. Rarely have I encountered so many fantastic books in a single year. It makes me happy, but it also leaves me wondering—will I discover equally enchanting tales to explore next year? Will any of them evoke the same emotions as my top 2 books did? I don’t know. But I’ll do my best to unearth more of these literary gems.
The Reading Stray 
I hope to see more lists like this in the Future 🙂
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Definitely ! Lists are great 🙂
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