Wrapping Up 2023

 

I couldn’t let 2023 go without wrapping up the year in post about 5 additional novels I loved each from a different, previously unmentioned category. And if I could get myself pulled together (wink) I’d also be able to post all kinds of specifics on how my reading actually went in 2023, but let’s count that as a goal for 2024.

 

Best Debut

I did less debut reading than ever before, which is a bit concerning, but this novel was exceptional. A heart-wrenching story of family and identity.

Runner-up: Shark Heart, a genre mashup with one of the most unique premises I’ve ever read built around the theme of love and what love means.

The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
Published by Catapult
Publication date: October 31, 2023

Bookshop

 

Irish Authors

Loving Irish writers is nothing new for me, but last year was a steady stream of hits. These two were my favorites for their sharp humor, poignancy, and strong women. That they were both written by men was a surprise, but in no way detracted from how much I loved these girls and women.

Juno Loves Legs by Karl Geary
Published by Catapult
Publication date: April 18, 2023

Bookshop

 

The Queen of Dirt Island by Donal Ryan
Published by Doubleday
Publication date: August 18, 2022

Bookshop

 

Underrated Gems

I was in the minority who fell head-over-heels for these two wildly different novels, but if our tastes are similar you might love them too.

One Woman Show by Christine Coulson
Published by Avid Reader Press
Publication date: October 17, 2023

Bookshop

 

One Woman Show by Christine Coulson
Published by Avid Reader Press
Publication date: October 17, 2023

Bookshop

 

Really and truly, that’s it for 2023.

Thank you all for your kind comments after my recent personal post. I love this little bookish community, you make all the hard work worthwhile.

Now, onto 2024 reading. Fingers crossed it will be great and will provide each of us with whatever level of escape we need. Big hug!

 

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