I read an interesting mix of books this year, trying to explore different genres. I stuck to some of my preferred genres like historical, fantasy, and romance. This is the list of the books I liked more than the others in no particular order. I think most of these books stayed with me because I was surprised by how they turned out and how much I loved reading them. My favorite books for 2023 are –
The Book of Azrael by Amber Nicole
The Book of Azrael by Amber Nicole is a fantasy romance novel. The book was such a surprise for me because it was nothing like I expected. It’s set in a world where Monsters and Gods exist. Diana has sacrificed herself for her sister, and now she has to live with its consequences. Samkiel aka the World Ender, is an extremely powerful, God capable of destroying the world. Samkiel and Diana’s paths cross, and reluctantly they have to help each other. The story has romance, but it is a slow burn that’s so worth the wait. It was a mix of adventure, action, romance, and fantasy all in one, and loved reading it. I couldn’t put it down, I needed to know what would happen next. It is one of the best fantasy romances I have read.
The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris by Daisy Wood
The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris by Daisy Wood is a historical fiction set during World War II. The story actually follows two timelines – One is Paris under Nazi rule and the second in Paris in our time. I am always fascinated with historical fiction; such books just remind me why I love this genre. The story draws you in from the start, and the characters are simply amazing. The arc that Jacques Duval’s character has is the heart of the story. It was one of those books that made me smile and cry. The parallel timelines coming together through characters and bringing the story to the full circle are done really well. The characters and the plot kept me emotionally invested throughout the story. I loved reading it.
Romancing Mister Bridgerton by Julia Quinn
Romancing Mister Bridgerton by Julia Quin is the fourth book of the Bridgerton series. This historical romance follows the story of Colin and Penelope. I wanted to wait just a couple of weeks before the season 3 release of the Netflix show, but no date was declared at that point. I couldn’t help myself anymore and decided to go for it. Penelope has been a character that interested me from the start, and she gets to shine in this story. It’s a well-done friends-to-lovers book that keeps you engaged with its characters and pace. The romance and the chemistry between these characters are cute and sexy at the same time if that makes sense. I was so excited to read this story, and I am happy that it met my high expectations. I finished the book over one weekend because I couldn’t stop reading it.
A Touch of Darkness by Scarlett St. Claire
A Touch of Darkness by Scarlett St. Claire is a retelling of the Greek Mythology story of Hades and Persephone. The main draw for me was that it is a retelling of Greek Mythology, which always piques my curiosity. The story is set in a world that is sort of familiar, but Gods live alongside humans and are like celebrities. This fantasy romance gives a familiar story but with new dynamics. I liked the world that is created in the book. Persephone is bound by a contract by Hades and she has to fulfill the set terms or she loses her freedom. I loved the romance between Hades and Persephone. I wish they had more time together in the book, but their chemistry is portrayed beautifully. I enjoyed reading this retelling.
There are many other wonderful books I read this year like – Charmed, A Discover of Witches, and Be With Me to name a few. But, these above are the ones that I absolutely enjoyed reading the most. It’s been a good reading year for me. It was hard to pick the books I enjoyed the most, and that made the reader in me very happy.
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Books and blues 