As we are rounding up the month of July, we wanted to quickly go through the 20 best books of 2023 (so far) so that you know just what to buy if you are thinking of hitting the bookstores.
The Best Books of 2023 (So Far): Welcome to a captivating exploration of the literary gems that have graced us in the first half of 2023! We are excited to present a handpicked selection of the 20 best books released so far. Our selection criterion is simple – 3 books each month from January to June, along with two notable reads from July. Whether you seek thrilling adventures, heartwarming tales, or mind-bending journeys – we promise something special for everyone’s taste.
January
1. Age of Vice by Deepti Kapoor
(3 January 2023)
In Age of Vice by Deepti Kapoor, the glittering world of contemporary New Delhi comes alive, showcasing a realm ruled by vice, money, pleasure, and power. The story unfurls with a shocking incident—a deadly accident involving a speeding Mercedes and five fatalities. What seems like a rich man’s tragedy takes a twisted turn when only a bewildered servant remains to explain the inexplicable sequence of events that led to the tragedy.
The narrative skillfully navigates through time and perspectives, delving into the opulent and corrupt world of the powerful Wadia family. Against the backdrop of lavish estates, extravagant parties, cutthroat business dealings, and political machinations, three lives become inexorably intertwined – Ajay, a watchful servant who rose from poverty, finds himself climbing the ranks within the Wadia family; Sunny, the playboy heir, yearns to outshine his father, even if it means paying a high price; and Neda, an inquisitive journalist, is caught between morality and desire, leading her into dangerous territory.
As the plot unfolds, fueled by loss, greed, violence, and revenge, the characters’ connections hang in a delicate balance, threatening either escape or further destruction. Blending elements of a crime thriller and a gripping family saga, Age of Vice takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through dusty Uttar Pradesh villages to the bustling streets of New Delhi. It is an intoxicating tale of gangsters, forbidden romance, false friendships, and the dark consequences of corruption.
2. Spare by Prince Harry, J.R. Moehringer [Ghostwriter]
(10 January 2023)
This intimate and candid memoir by Prince Harry shares his personal journey and struggles. Known as the carefree and happy-go-lucky Spare to his older brother, the Heir, Prince Harry’s life took a dramatic turn when he tragically lost his mother, Princess Diana, at the tender age of twelve. Grief and loneliness overwhelmed him, and he found it difficult to cope with the public scrutiny that came with being a royal.
In search of purpose and structure, Prince Harry joined the British Army at twenty-one, where he became a hero through his service. However, the trauma of combat left him grappling with post-traumatic stress and debilitating panic attacks. Amidst the turmoil, he yearned for genuine love and connection.
Then, Meghan entered his life—a woman he fell in love with deeply, and the two embarked on a fairy-tale romance, culminating in a grand wedding. However, their happiness was marred by relentless media intrusion and prejudice, which severely impacted their mental health and safety. In a bid to protect their family, Prince Harry made a bold decision—stepping away from the Royal Family, an act that few in history had dared.
Spare is a landmark publication, narrated with vulnerability and self-reflection, offering insights into Prince Harry’s struggles, his relationship with Meghan, and the powerful force of love in overcoming grief and adversity. This compelling memoir sheds light on the turmoils faced by a member of the British Royal family, revealing the resilience and determination required to forge a new path while preserving their well-being and happiness.
3. Simon Sort of Says by Erin Bow
(31 January 2023)
In Simon Sort of Says by Erin Bow, twelve-year-old Simon O’Keeffe has a quirky and chaotic life, filled with humorous mishaps and unforgettable moments, like the time his dad mistakenly gave a sacrament to a squirrel or when an alpaca disaster became an internet sensation. But amidst the laughter, a darker story lurks – one that Simon desperately wants to forget.
Simon’s claim to unwanted fame is surviving a school shooting that has haunted him for two years. Seeking a fresh start, Simon and his family move to the National Quiet Zone, the only place in the country where the internet is banned. Here, instead of being the focus of everyone’s attention, Simon finds solace in the presence of astronomers who have come to listen for signs of extraterrestrial life.
In this unique setting, Simon befriends someone determined to give the scientists what they seek, and together, they embark on a journey that challenges Simon to confront his past trauma. As they search for answers among the stars, Simon discovers the redemptive power of humour and the strength it takes to move forward while acknowledging the scars of the past. Simon Sort of Says is a compelling and heartfelt tale that delves into the lasting impact of trauma, the healing power of laughter, and the courage to face life’s challenges while never forgetting the journey that brought you where you are today.
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February
4. Weyward by Emilia Hart
(2 February 2023)
This captivating tale spans five centuries, weaving the lives of three extraordinary women: Kate, Altha, and Violet. In 2019, Kate escaped her abusive partner and sought refuge in Weyward Cottage, uncovering its centuries-old secrets tied to witch hunts. In 1619, the accused witch, Altha, fights for freedom with her natural world magic. In 1942, Violet longed for her deceased mother’s connection while navigating societal constraints.
Hart skillfully connects their stories, celebrating female resilience and the power of nature. As the narrative unfolds, Kate, Altha, and Violet’s stories intertwine, revealing the ties that bind them across time. Themes of female empowerment, resilience, and the indomitable strength of nature course through the veins of this enthralling novel.
Weyward is an exploration of the transformative power that exists within women when they embrace their unique abilities and connection to the natural world. It delves into the persecution and challenges faced by exceptional women throughout history, shining a light on the enduring spirit that enables them to rise above adversity.
5. Oscar Wars: A History of Hollywood in Gold, Sweat, and Tears by Michael Schulman
(21 February 2023)
Here, Michael Schulman presents an enthralling exploration of the Academy Awards, delving into the fierce battles, starry rivalries, and captivating backstage drama that have defined the prestigious event for nine decades. Far from a glitzy affair, the Oscars reveal a battlefield where the rich tapestry of Hollywood’s history, and even America’s, unfolds in grand spectacles and intimate personal struggles.
Rather than a linear account, Schulman takes readers on a captivating journey through specific years, conflicts, or categories – each representing a significant cultural shift – from the reign of Louis B. Mayer to the groundbreaking triumph of “Moonlight.” The Oscars, as it turns out, is far from a straightforward affair, and the victors aren’t always as apparent as the names drawn from envelopes. Each chapter of Oscar Wars unearths iconic and previously untold personal dramas, revealing the untamed ambitions, artistic epiphanies, messy collaborations, and dreams (both fulfilled and shattered).
With a stellar cast of Hollywood power players from past and present and outsiders who dared to challenge the status quo, Schulman weaves a compelling narrative of pivotal moments that have shaped the Academy, the film industry, and even broader cultural shifts. From glamorous red carpets to behind-the-scenes clashes, Oscar Wars offers an engaging and revelatory collection of stories that bring forward Hollywood’s tumultuous and captivating history. Through the lens of the Academy Awards, Schulman uncovers the triumphs, heartbreaks, and turning points that have shaped the course of the movie industry and left an indelible mark on the culture at large.
6. The Librarian of Burned Books by Brianna Labuskes
(21 February 2023)
Set during the tumultuous era of World War II, this is a riveting novel that weaves together the destinies of three courageous women who believe in the transformative power of literature amidst the darkness of war. In 1933 Berlin, American writer Althea James gets invited to a cultural exchange program in Germany by none other than Joseph Goebbels himself. Drawn into a resistance group, Althea begins to question her beliefs and everything she thought she knew about her hosts and herself.
Meanwhile, in 1936 Paris, Hannah Brecht seeks solace from the anti-Semitism at the German Library of Burned Books. Through books, she hopes to counter the rising fascism in Europe and redeem herself for the betrayal that tore her family apart. In New York in 1944, Vivian Childs fights a different battle, attempting to prevent a powerful senator from censoring the Armed Service Editions, books that bring solace to soldiers overseas. As Vivian’s efforts lead her to the American Library of Nazi-Banned Books in Brooklyn, she becomes entangled in secrets from the past.
Unknowingly, these three women’s paths converge, forever changing their lives and the lives of those around them. Inspired by the true story of the Council of Books in Wartime, The Librarian of Burned Books is a haunting and unforgettable historical novel that celebrates the strength of women, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring power of the written word to shape history.
Related to The 20 Best Books of 2023: 10 New Books to Look Forward to in February 2023
March
7. Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
(14 March 2023)
This emotionally rich tale delves into the transformative power of love within a broken family. William Waters, growing up in a home marred by tragedy and neglect, finds solace in his basketball skills, leading him to escape to college and encounter Julia Padavano, a spirited and ambitious young woman. Enamored by William’s quiet strength, Julia introduces him to her loving and lively family, including her three younger sisters with unique dreams and talents.
As William becomes a part of the Padavano household, a deep bond forms between them. However, the shadows of William’s past soon resurface, shattering the family’s carefully laid plans for the future and challenging the unyielding loyalty shared among the sisters. A devastating rift forms, altering the course of their lives for generations to come.
At its core, Hello Beautiful vibrates with tenderness, portraying the unyielding power of love that can emerge when we embrace others for who they truly are. Ann Napolitano crafts a profoundly moving portrait of a family grappling with their past and the enduring strength that lies within their connection. As the novel explores the complexities of forgiveness, loyalty, and healing, readers are drawn into a heartwarming and powerful narrative that reminds us of the capacity for love to mend even the most shattered souls.
8. The Lies of the Ajungo by Moses Ose Utomi
(21 March 2023)
In Moses Ose Utomi’s enchanting debut novella, readers are immersed in the captivating world of the Forever Desert. In the City of Lies, where water is scarce, a young boy named Tutu faces a heart-wrenching dilemma as his mother’s life hangs in the balance. Turning thirteen means losing his voice to appease the feared Ajungo Empire, ensuring the city receives water. Tutu’s mother is gravely ill, and he can’t bear the thought of losing her before he reaches that age.
Determined to save his mother and his city, Tutu takes a courageous step and strikes a deal with the Oba and pledges to venture into the treacherous desert to find water in exchange for providing water for his ailing mother. Thus begins Tutu’s epic quest as he embarks on a perilous journey to secure the salvation of those he loves most. This novella reveals a vast and magical world filled with challenges and wonders, immersing the readers in a world where myths and reality intertwine.
As Tutu navigates the uncharted terrain of the Forever Desert, the novella explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bond between a son and his mother. Utomi’s storytelling is surreal, capturing the essence of a richly imagined universe. The Lies of the Ajungo promises an epic fable filled with awe-inspiring moments and heartfelt emotions, leaving readers entranced and eager for more of Tutu’s captivating journey through the City of Lies.
9. Hang the Moon by Jeannette Walls
(28 March 2023)
Set in Prohibition-era Virginia, this novel is centred around the indomitable Sallie Kincaid. Born into privilege as the daughter of the influential Duke Kincaid, Sallie is determined to prove herself beyond the expectations of her small town. However, a tragic accident leads to her expulsion from the family.
Nine years later, Sallie returns, seeking to reclaim her place in the Kincaid family. But her homecoming is fraught with complexities as she confronts long-buried secrets and scandals hidden within the Big House. As she navigates the tensions within the family and the lawless times, Sallie emerges as a fearless and resourceful bootlegger, defying societal norms.
The novel takes readers on a captivating journey alongside Sallie Kincaid, an interesting multifaceted character. Walls skillfully paints a portrait of a young woman who refuses to be confined, embodying strength and vulnerability. With rich historical detail and a vivid portrayal of a tumultuous era, Hang the Moon is a tale of resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of self-discovery. Readers will be captivated by Sallie’s tenacity as she challenges the constraints of her upbringing and finds her place in a world filled with secrets and complexities.
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April
10. Generations: The Real Differences Between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers, and Silents—and What They Mean for America’s Future by Jean M. Twenge
(1 April 2023)
This is a groundbreaking exploration of the diverse life experiences of the Silents, Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, Generation Z, and Generation Alpha, seeking to uncover the true extent of their differences, causes, and underlying beliefs and behaviors.
Drawing on extensive research, including long-running government-funded surveys and databases, Professor Jean Twenge examines whether historical events, such as the Great Depression and September 11, truly define each generation or the rapid evolution of technology that sets them apart. With clarity and insight, Twenge explores the desires and aspirations of the Silents and Baby Boomers in their later years, the challenges Generation X faces as they navigate middle age, the parenting and workplace ideals of Millennials, and the profound impact of COVID-19 on Generation Z.
Through these fascinating discussions, Generations offers a fresh and revealing perspective on parents, peers, coworkers, and children, transcending generational boundaries. It will forever transform the readers’ perceptions of generational dynamics. Twenge’s keen analysis invites readers to contemplate how historical context and technological advancements shape each generation’s unique identity, fostering a deeper understanding of the diverse forces at play in contemporary society.
11. Pomegranate by Helen Elaine Lee
(11 April 2023)
In this novel, readers are taken on a powerful journey of healing, redemption, and love, following the life of Ranita Atwater, a queer Black woman striving to rebuild her life after being released from prison. Ranita is nearing the end of her four-year sentence for opiate possession at Oak Hills Correctional Center. With three years of sobriety under her belt, she is determined to stay clean and reunite with her two children, who she longs to regain custody of. However, the path to recovery proves to be rocky and challenging.
Throughout the novel, Ranita grapples with her identity beyond being an addict. She is determined to confront her past, heal old wounds, and imagine a new future for herself. Leaving behind her lover Maxine, who inspired her to see herself and the world differently, Ranita must navigate the temptations that once led her astray. In her journey to wellness, Ranita draws strength from her family, memories, faith, and love. Helen Elaine Lee portrays Ranita’s story with a fierce and occasionally humorous voice, offering a complex portrayal of queer Black womanhood and marginalization in America. The book delves into the devastating effects of incarceration and addiction while emphasizing the resilience and determination of one woman to reclaim her life.
Pomegranate is a profound and lyrical exploration of Ranita’s quest for redemption and the unyielding spirit that propels her forward. With precise prose, the novel paints a humane and unflinching portrait of the challenges faced by Black women, highlighting the transformative power of healing, self-discovery, and choosing life. For fans of authors like Jesmyn Ward and Yaa Gyasi, this novel is an emotionally resonant narrative of loss, strength, and the enduring pursuit of a better future.
12. The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny, and Murder by David Grann
(18 April 2023)
Set in 1742, the book follows the harrowing journey of thirty emaciated men who washed up on the coast of Brazil aboard a ramshackle vessel, survivors of His Majesty’s Ship the Wager. The British vessel had set sail on a secret mission during an imperial war with Spain while chasing a treasure-filled galleon.
Marooned for months on a desolate island off the coast of Patagonia and facing starvation, the men built a flimsy craft and sailed for over 3,000 miles of storm-wracked seas, eventually landing in Brazil and being hailed as heroes. However, six months later, another ship arrives on the coast of Chile with three castaways who tell a different story. The thirty sailors who landed in Brazil were mutineers, accused of treachery and murder by the first group.
As the truth is unraveled through countercharges and accusations, the Admiralty convenes a court martial to determine guilt, with the stakes being life-and-death as hanging awaits the guilty party. The Wager is a riveting and suspenseful narrative that delves into the extremes of human behavior and the complexities of survival. David Grann’s skillful writing draws readers into the dramatic twists of this remarkable historical account, making it a must-read for fans of adventure, history, and gripping nonfiction.
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May
13. The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
(2 May 2023)
This mesmerizing grand epic spans generations, love, faith, and the pursuit of a mysterious family secret in the lush setting of Kerala, South India. Set between 1900 and 1977, the novel follows a unique family plagued by an unusual affliction—death by drowning—across generations.
At the heart of this captivating tale is Big Ammachi, the matriarch of the family, who witnesses profound changes both in her home and the world at large during her extraordinary life. As the times shift, the novel delves into themes of medicine, human understanding, and the inevitable passage of time. Abraham Verghese displays his extraordinary literary talents, seamlessly blending scenes of medical ingenuity, moments of humor, and deeply moving stories that resonate with the essence of life itself.
The novel paints a vivid and shimmering picture of a lost India while offering profound reflections on progress in medicine and the enduring struggles endured by past generations for the sake of the present. The Covenant of Water stands as a masterful work, evoking a sense of wonder about the power of water to sustain life, the importance of family, and the resilience of faith. The concept of connectedness, a sense of family that can extend to those unrelated by blood, is carried through nearly every chapter of this novel.
14. You Have to Be Prepared to Die Before You Can Begin to Live: Ten Weeks in Birmingham That Changed America by Paul Kix
(2 May 2023)
This is a never-before-fully-told account of the 1963 Birmingham Campaign, a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement that profoundly shaped America’s future. The book delves into the ten weeks of Project C, led by four extraordinary men: Martin Luther King, Jr., Wyatt Walker, Fred Shuttlesworth, and James Bevel.
Through page-turning prose reminiscent of a thriller, Kix takes readers behind the scenes of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference’s efforts to end segregation in Birmingham, Alabama. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a haunting photograph depicting a Black teenager confronted by a policeman and his aggressive German Shepherd during the campaign. As Kix examines the legacy of the Birmingham photograph, he offers insight into the minds and strategies of the campaign’s leaders. He explores the specific history of Project C and its profound impact on American culture, resonating with echoes that reverberate through present times.
You Have to Be Prepared to Die Before You Can Begin to Live not only traces the origins of the Civil Rights Movement but also sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of strategic activism. As the fight for equality continues today, this book becomes a crucial lens to help us understand our current moment and the potential impact of determined and principled activism. It stands as a powerful testament to the enduring significance of the Birmingham Campaign and its lasting influence on the course of American history.
15. King: A Life by Jonathan Eig
(16 May 2023)
Jonathan Eig presents a vivid and comprehensive biography of the renowned civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr in this groundbreaking work that weaves together revelatory research and engaging storytelling to offer a definitive and intimate portrayal of the preacher and activist who left an indelible mark on the world. Eig delves into the complex and emotionally charged life of MLK, shedding light on his relationships with his family, including his wife and father, as well as his fellow activists.
Uncovering recently declassified FBI files, the biography provides fresh insights into King’s origins and struggles as a human being, advocating for peaceful protest while grappling with inner turmoil. From MLK’s journey from the classroom to the pulpit and his transformative role in the civil rights movements of Birmingham, Selma, and Memphis, Eig masterfully recreates the life of a deeply thoughtful and strategically brilliant man. This biography presents MLK as an iconic figure and a committed radical who fought tirelessly for racial and economic justice, making him a modern-day founding father and a deeply mourned martyr.
King: A Life offers readers a profound understanding of Martin Luther King Jr., a visionary leader whose pursuit of justice and equality remains as relevant today as it was during his lifetime. Jonathan Eig’s portrait of MLK honours his legacy while reminding us of the ongoing urgency to carry forward his mission for a better and more just society.
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June
16. All the Sinners Bleed by S.A. Cosby
(6 June 2023)
S.A. Cosby’s latest novel tells the story of Titus Crowne, the first Black sheriff in Charon County, Virginia. However, tragedy strikes a year after his election when a school shooting rocks the town. As Titus tries to defuse the situation, his deputies make a fatal mistake, resulting in the death of a troubled student who had been abused by the deceased teacher and others.
As the investigation unfolds, buried bodies and long-held secrets are unearthed, leading Titus on a relentless pursuit of a killer hiding in plain sight. Amidst his efforts to solve the case, Titus must also grapple with the complexities of being a Black man wearing a police uniform in the American South.
All the Sinners Bleed is a gripping and powerful novel that delves into themes of justice, redemption, and the struggle to balance duty with personal principles. S.A. Cosby weaves a compelling narrative, capturing the challenges faced by a trailblazing sheriff in a town plagued by dark secrets and ingrained prejudice. Through the character of Titus Crowne, the book sheds light on the enduring fight for equality and the sacrifices required to bring change to a community plagued by sin and suffering.
17. Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Celeste Ng
(6 June 2023)
The true story of Tan Yunxian, a 15th-century Chinese woman physician inspires this historical novel. Raised by her grandparents to be useful (despite the societal belief that educated women are worthless), Yunxian learns the art of Chinese medicine, forbidden to men, from her grandmother.
Yunxian forms a close bond with Meiling, a young midwife-in-training, as they navigate the challenges of treating women’s illnesses and find solace in their friendship. However, an arranged marriage disrupts their bond as Yunxian is confined to traditional wife duties, forbidden to see Meiling or practice medicine. Determined to break free from these constraints, Yunxian embarks on a journey to treat women from all walks of life, defying norms and societal expectations. The novel explores the power of friendship and the resilience of women supporting each other in a world of adversities.
Lisa See’s masterful storytelling immerses readers in the world of the Ming Dynasty, China, portraying the remarkable life of Tan Yunxian—a woman whose legacy transcends time. Lady Tan’s Circle of Women is a triumphant and evocative tale of female empowerment, friendship, and the enduring impact of a woman who dared to defy conventions to heal and uplift the lives of countless others.
18. Say Anarcha: A Young Woman, a Devious Surgeon, and the Harrowing Birth of Modern Women’s Health by J.C. Hallman
(6 June 2023)
This is a powerful and eye-opening exploration of the true history behind the birth of women’s health care, shining a light on the forgotten heroine, Anarcha. Dr J. Marion Sims, lauded as the “father of modern gynecology,” achieved fame and recognition for his medical achievements. However, the reality of his legacy was darker and more sinister than his public image suggested.
Sims’ so-called medical breakthroughs were based on years of experimental surgeries performed without anesthesia on a young enslaved woman named Anarcha. Her suffering paved the way for Sims’ acclaimed cure for obstetric fistula, but her own story was overshadowed and dismissed in the medical community. Anarcha’s pivotal role was largely ignored, and she was relegated to a historical footnote. Through relentless research, J. C. Hallman delves into the life of Anarcha, unearthing evidence beyond Sims’ biased reports. Contrary to popular belief, Anarcha did not vanish from history; she continued to thrive after her ordeal as a midwife, nurse, and revered “doctor woman.”
With painstaking detail Say Anarcha unravels the myths surrounding Sims’ legacy, exposing the truth behind his exploitative practices and elevating Anarcha to her rightful place at the center of the narrative. This captivating and long-overdue account highlights the resilience and contribution of a heroic Black woman whose impact on modern health care deserves recognition and appreciation.
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July
19. Eight Bears by Gloria Dickie
(11 July 2023)
Gloria Dickie takes readers on a captivating and eye-opening journey in this book, exploring the lives and struggles of the eight remaining bear species on our planet. Bears have held a significant place in human history and culture, from ancient myths to contemporary tales. However, as our interactions with bears increase, so do the threats to their existence. Many of these majestic creatures now face the risk of extinction, with iconic species like pandas and polar bears among those in peril.
Through her global expedition, Dickie ventures into the diverse habitats of bears, ranging from the Andean cloud forests to the Arctic ice floes, from Indian jungles to the Rocky Mountain backwoods. Along the way, she meets remarkable individuals leading conservation efforts, witnessing firsthand the challenges bears confront due to climate change and human encroachment.
Interweaving ecology, mythology, history, and her observations, Dickie offers a compelling account of our complex relationship with bears. With insight and in-depth reporting, Eight Bears sheds light on the urgency of coexisting with these incredible animals. The book serves as both a warning and a call to action, reminding us of the profound losses we face if we fail to protect and preserve the creatures that have profoundly impacted our cultures, landscapes, and stories.
20. Life on Other Planets: A Memoir of Finding My Place in the Universe by Aomawa Shields
(11 July 2023)
This extraordinary and uplifting memoir takes readers on a compelling journey through the life of Aomawa Shields, a passionate astronomer, classically-trained actor, devoted mother, and trailblazing Black woman in STEM. From a young age, Aomawa dreamt of becoming an astronaut, but early doubts and discouragement led her away from astrophysics into a career in acting. However, her unwavering love for the stars eventually drew her back, and she pursued her astrophysics PhD, defying stereotypes and carving her path in a predominantly white and male-dominated field.
In this captivating memoir, Dr Shields shares her unique perspective as she delves into the world of astronomy and astrobiology, focusing on discovering planets beyond our solar system that may support life. Her research takes her on a profound exploration of the universe while using her theatre background to communicate its wonders to the world.
Throughout her life, Aomawa has navigated complex terrains, embracing her multifaceted identity and creating a life filled with joy, love, and wonder. Life on Other Planets chronicles her remarkable journey in science while delving into the human question: Are we alone in the universe? This memoir is a testament to resilience, breaking barriers, and finding one’s place in the cosmos, literally and figuratively. Dr Shields’ inspiring story is a celebration of embracing one’s passions and forging a new path, regardless of societal expectations and limitations.
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