Top 10 Fiction Books I Read in 2023
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Tress of the Emerald Sea: A Cosmere Novel
Tress of the Emerald Sea might just be my favorite fictional book of the entire year. I was completely captivated by every second of it and found it impossible to put down. Admittedly, I may be biased as I've enjoyed nearly everything I've read from Brandon Sanderson, but I genuinely believe this is one of his best standalone works. It not only stands on its own merit but also leaves you eagerly wanting to read more of his books.
" Do you know how many grand romances would have avoided tragedy if the hero had thought, "You know, maybe I should ask her if she likes me first"?” " - Brandon Sanderson, Tress of the Emerald Sea
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue
Starting this review is a challenge because 'The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue' is simply excellent. This book tugs at your heartstrings, blending darkness with a sense of realism that is captivating from start to finish. It's hard to find fault with it; while I recognize it may not be everyone's cup of tea, I believe there's a good chance you'll like it.
" What is a person, if not the marks they leave behind? " - V.E. Schwab
Piranesi
Piranesi is a book you've probably seen recommended in some form or another, especially if you're active on BookTok like me. It offers a strange, unique, and ultimately satisfying experience. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and believe many others would too. However, it may not be everyone's cup of tea. It's best suited for those who appreciate strange fantasies and novels that make you question.
" Birds are not difficult to understand. Their behaviour tells me what they are thinking. Generally it runs along the lines of: Is this food? Is this? What about this? This might be food. I am almost certain that this is. Or occasionally: It is raining. I do not like it.. " - Susanna Clarke, Piranesi
Recursion: A Novel
Writing this review without giving anything away is like walking a tightrope. So, here's the deal: Recursion isn't my usual read, especially with all the concepts it throws at you early on. But, after enjoying Dark Matter by Blake Crouch, I thought, 'Why not give this one a shot?' And you know what? Despite not being big on time travel stories, I was sucked in! It's worth a read.
" He has wondered lately if that’s all living really is—one long goodbye to those we love. " - Blake Crouch, Recursion
The Lies of Locke Lamora
The Lies of Locke Lamora landed on my radar thanks to a recommendation from "Book Reviews Kill." Initially, I was intimidated by its series length and the promise of a labyrinthine journey filled with intrigue and adventure. However, I'm thrilled I took the plunge because Scott Lynch's craftsmanship shines through in every aspect of this tale. From the fun and meticulously crafted characters to the immersive fantasy world, Lynch delivers an intricate and exhilarating plot that kept me wanting more. I can't wait to dive back into more from this series.
" We’re a different sort of thief here, Lamora. Deception and misdirection are our tools. We don’t believe in hard work when a false face and a good line of bullshit can do so much more. " - Scott Lynch, The Lies of Locke Lamora
The House in the Cerulean Sea
For anyone seeking a heartwarming escape into the realm of fantasy, 'The House in the Cerulean Sea' is an excellent choice. This whimsical tale takes reading into a charming orphanage on a remote island, where extraordinary children with unique abilities live under the care of an interesting caretaker.
" We should always make time for the things we like. If we don’t, we might forget how to be happy. " - T.J. Klune, The House in the Cerulean Sea
We follow the journey of Linus Baker, a case worker who finds himself falling in love with everyone at the orphanage and learning valuable lessons on the way. The House in the Cerulean Sea is more than just a feel-good fantasy read—it's a poignant exploration of compassion, diversity, and the transformative power of love.
Dark Matter
Dark Matter is a sci-fi book I find myself recommending time and time again to fans of the genre. With its fast-paced narrative and gripping storyline, once you start reading, be prepared to be hooked.
" No one tells you it’s all about to change, to be taken away. There’s no proximity alert, no indication that you’re standing on the precipice. And maybe that’s what makes tragedy so tragic. Not just what happens, but how it happens: a sucker punch that comes at you out of nowhere, when you’re least expecting it. No time to flinch or brace. " - Blake Crouch, Dark Matter
While I have heard repeatedly that this is someone’s all-time favorite sci-fi book, it’s not quite that good for me. Crouch's writing is compelling, and he makes complex scientific concepts intriguing without slowing down the plot. I really enjoyed the emotional depth of the main character's struggle to return to his family, which adds a poignant layer to the thrilling narrative.
Although "Dark Matter" is thrilling and a page-turner, there are points in the story that felt like they were added just to extend the narrative a bit further. This might sound odd as a reason for giving it only 4 stars, but I thought his book "Recursion" was better!
So overall? I don't think you can go wrong with reading this book, especially if you are a fan of Sci-fi. It might even become your favorite; it just wasn’t a 5 star read for me.
A Psalm for the Wild-Built
"A Psalm for the Wild-Built" by Becky Chambers is a charming and thoughtful novella that can easily be read in a day. It offers a fun and unique perspective on humanity
The story follows a tea monk who embarks on a journey with an unlikely companion, a robot. Their meeting sparks a profound exploration into purpose, existence, and the simple joys in life throughout the story.
" You keep asking why your work is not enough, and I don’t know how to answer that, because it is enough to exist in the world and marvel at it. You don’t need to justify that, or earn it. You are allowed to just live. " - Becky Chambers, A Psalm for the Wild-Built
Chambers' writing is like a warm blanket on a cold rainy day—gentle, comforting, and impactful. This story invites you to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the beauty in yourself and the world around you.
There are only two reasons why this book didn't earn 5 stars from me:
- It was too short for me. I fell in love with these characters so quickly that I wanted a big adventure from them.
- I don't think this type of book is for everyone. While it's calming and has great themes, I wouldn't recommend it to someone who loves genres like thrillers or anything adjecent to it. This book will be really good for some and just decent for others.
Yumi and the Nightmare Painter: A Cosmere Novel
Yumi and the Nightmare Painter felt like a Chef’s Kiss from Brandon Sanderson. The story refused to let me put the book down, the worldbuilding felt mysterious, and it's a display of Sanderson at his best. Plus, this book isn’t as long as many of the others Sanderson has written and can be a stand-alone piece.
If you're looking for a book that feels like the art of storytelling is fully on display and offers a satisfying love story, you will enjoy this book.
" Art - and all stories are art, even the ones about real people - is about what it does to you. " - Brandon Sanderson, Yumi and the Nightmare Painter
11/22/63
The story of "11/22/63" by Stephen King can be summed up by the title of this review. This book answers the question: what if a high school teacher could travel back in time to save JFK?
This compelling concept, combined with King's prolific writing ability, makes for an exceptional read. King’s meticulous attention to historical detail and his skill in building suspense create an immersive experience that kept me on the edge of my seat. The characters are richly developed, and the plot is filled with unexpected twists.
" We never know which lives we influence, or when, or why. " - Stephen King, 11/22/63
However, be warned: while this book is not as intense or scary as other Stephen King novels, it still bears his distinctive style throughout. If you’re not a fan of King’s writing, this book might not change your mind. Despite its quality, it won't make King’s other works more palatable for you.
Lastly, I want to give a shout-out to "Booksaresick" on TikTok, who recommended this book. I highly recommend checking him out!