Exploring Literary Gems

This article is all about my favorite books of 2023. This is the highlight of my end-of-year book series, and you can find links to my other videos in the description box, covering the most surprising, disappointing, and worst books of the year. I absolutely love sharing recommendations with you, and hearing about your thoughts on the books I've recommended. Whether you loved them or not, feel free to leave your own list of the best books of 2023 in the comments.

This year has been fantastic for me, especially in discovering new fantasy series and books that broke away from the usual medieval-inspired themes. Let's dive into my top picks! First on the list is the Green B Saga, specifically Jade City, Jade War, and Jade Legacy. The intricate story of two rival gangs and families vying for control over a city, coupled with a fascinating magic system, had me hooked. The character development and the evolving world, filled with political intrigue, made this series a standout.

Next up is the hefty fantasy novel, A Day of Fallen Night by Samantha Shannon, serving as a prequel to The Priory of the Orange Tree. With strong characters, intricate world-building, magic, and a touch of romance and dragons, this book is a must-read. It addresses the battle between good and evil and offers a satisfying exploration of the magical world.

Blood over Bright Haven, authored by the same writer as The Sword of Kaigen, takes us on a gripping journey from the remnants of a struggle to a young woman's quest to become a mage. The self-published book captivates from the prologue, showcasing an engaging magic system and world-building. It's a must-read that hooks you right from the first chapter.

Switching gears to a different genre, I recommend a somewhat depressing yet compelling read – a speculative fiction book set in a post-apocalyptic world. This older book, featuring a woman trapped behind an invisible wall, surviving with just a cow, a dog, and a cat, is a character-driven story that's both thought-provoking and intense.

The Neapolitan Quartet, comprising Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay, and The Story of a New Name, continues the gripping saga of two women from childhood to adulthood in a poor Italian neighborhood. It explores their complex friendship, life decisions, and the backdrop of a changing world, making it a captivating read.

Shifting to Octavia E. Butler's work, the short story collection Bloodchild showcases her brilliance in weaving dark yet hopeful tales. The stories, accompanied by insightful afterwords, provide a glimpse into Butler's mind, spanning various genres and delivering powerful messages.

Mak, originally written in French, is a speculative fiction masterpiece. Following the journey of 40 women escaping an underground cage, it delves into themes of humanity and self-discovery. Despite being only 200 pages, it leaves a profound impact, making it a compelling and unforgettable read.

Closing with a potentially controversial pick, The Fate of the Teering, the last book in the Queen of the Teering series, offers a unique fantasy experience. While the ending may divide opinions, it worked for me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the series.

Special mention goes to Garden Spells, a cozy fantasy reminiscent of Practical Magic 2.0, exploring the lives of two witch sisters. Despite heavier romance elements, it's a delightful read, especially for fans of the genre.

In summary, 2023 has been a standout year for literature, with female authors at the forefront, crafting stories that span genres and captivate readers. From fantasy epics to thought-provoking speculative fiction, this curated list invites readers to explore the best of the best, offering a literary adventure that transcends boundaries.

All these remarkable books, coincidentally all written by female authors, made 2023 an exceptional reading year for me. I'd love to hear your recommendations or your thoughts if you've read any of these. Don't forget to leave me your comment below. Until next time, happy reading!