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The best books of 2023

This list is part of the best books of 2023.

We've asked 1,608 authors and super readers for their 3 favorite reads of the year.

Shepherd is reader supported. When you buy books, we may earn an affiliate commission.

My favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of Circe

Bhavik Sarkhedi Why did I love this book?

I was utterly captivated by Circe. The narrative of Circe evolving from an overlooked deity to a revered witch was riveting. I believe her journey of self-discovery amidst the celestial chaos mirrored our human essence.

The eloquent prose whisked me into a mythological realm, offering both an escape and a reflective lens into life's intricacies. Each page was a dance between the mortal and divine, resonating profoundly with my own earthly experiences. It impacted me deeply, leaving a lasting imprint long after the last page was turned.

By Madeline Miller,

Why should I read it?

33 authors picked Circe as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The international Number One bestseller from the author of The Song of Achilles, shortlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction

Woman. Witch. Myth. Mortal. Outcast. Lover. Destroyer. Survivor. CIRCE.

In the house of Helios, god of the sun and mightiest of the Titans, a daughter is born. Circe is a strange child - not powerful and terrible, like her father, nor gorgeous and mercenary like her mother. Scorned and rejected, Circe grows up in the shadows, at home in neither the world of gods or mortals. But Circe has a dark power of her own: witchcraft. When her gift threatens…


My 2nd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of The White Tiger

Bhavik Sarkhedi Why did I love this book?

I started reading The White Tiger Adiga and quickly got into the story. I think the book does a great job showing the big differences in India's society, which can be hard to see but also really interesting.

I am sure the way it talks about going after your dreams even when things are tough is something a lot of people can relate to. I guess for me, it was like taking a trip through a different part of the world and seeing what people do to move up in life, which made me think a lot.

By Aravind Adiga,

Why should I read it?

6 authors picked The White Tiger as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

WINNER OF THE MAN BOOKER PRIZE 2008

Balram Halwai is the White Tiger - the smartest boy in his village. His family is too poor for him to afford for him to finish school and he has to work in a teashop, breaking coals and wiping tables. But Balram gets his break when a rich man hires him as a chauffeur, and takes him to live in Delhi. The city is a revelation. As he drives his master to shopping malls and call centres, Balram becomes increasingly aware of immense wealth and opportunity all around him, while knowing that he…


My 3rd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of It Starts with Us

Bhavik Sarkhedi Why did I love this book?

I picked up It Starts with Us and was instantly drawn into the narrative. I think the characters' authenticity and their battles with real-world issues made the story relatable.

I am sure anyone who's navigated the waters of love and loss will see a reflection of their own experiences. The narrative, with its raw emotions and an underlying note of hope, makes it a heart-tugging read that leaves a lasting impact. The book also opens up conversations about important but often unspoken topics, making it a worthy read

By Colleen Hoover,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked It Starts with Us as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Before It Ends with Us, it started with Atlas. Colleen Hoover tells fan favorite Atlas’s side of the story and shares what comes next in this long-anticipated sequel to the “glorious and touching” (USA TODAY) #1 New York Times bestseller It Ends with Us.

Lily and her ex-husband, Ryle, have just settled into a civil coparenting rhythm when she suddenly bumps into her first love, Atlas, again. After nearly two years separated, she is elated that for once, time is on their side, and she immediately says yes when Atlas asks her on a date.

But her excitement is quickly…


Plus, check out my book…

The Unproposed Guy

By Bhavik Sarkhedi, Suhana Bhambhani,

Book cover of The Unproposed Guy

What is my book about?

Dive into the everyday yet extraordinary life of Kevin, a born entertainer with a knack for sending girls running the other way. His life, a blend of mundane routines and failed romances, takes a sharp turn into the unknown when he's hit with an 'Existential Crisis'. Discover Kevin's journey as he dodges mocking peers, unlocks new feelings, and pursues a fresh passion for stand-up comedy and rapping. Will Kevin find love on this rocky road? Will he have the last laugh on stage? The Unproposed Guy is a tale of dreams, humor, love, and finding one's place in the chaos of life.