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The best books of 2023

This list is part of the best books of 2023.

We've asked 1,624 authors and super readers for their 3 favorite reads of the year.

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My favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of Priscilla: Paper Dolls

Cheri Swalwell Why did I love this book?

I first fell in love with the women in Paper Dolls, where they are all introduced. Each subsequent book in the series is more detailed about each paper doll.

At first, I didn’t really like Priscilla, but the more I read about her specific story, the more I was drawn to her character. Her vulnerable side came out, and the love between her and Barry shone through; I absolutely loved how their marriage was depicted and how they dealt with complex family relationships.

While I can’t wait to read Eve (I’m predicting she will be my favorite paper doll), I have a huge soft spot in my heart for Priscilla that surprised even me! 

By Kara R. Hunt,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Priscilla as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.


My 2nd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of The Tangled Tale of the Woolgathering Castoffs

Cheri Swalwell Why did I love this book?

I was given the privilege to read this book before it was published. I loved The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady, and this book was like coming home to friends I love.

One week before I picked this book up, my mother-in-law got sick and died very quickly. As I read the book, one of the characters contracted the same disease my mother-in-law died from. In a strange way, it helped me cope with the grief of losing her.

I love how this book continued the love of people in the community and sharing God’s love with strangers. When we obey, not only are those we love blessed but we’re blessed even more. I really hope there’s a third book in this series.

By Sharon J. Mondragón,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Tangled Tale of the Woolgathering Castoffs as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A humorous, heartwarming tale of love, loss, and the power of community
Fair Meadows Retirement Community might as well be a country club for most of the retirees enjoying the pool, golf course, and book clubs. But for the caregivers whose family members reside upstairs in the special Memory Care Unit, vacation is over.
Comforting these caregivers is exactly why the Woolgatherers group has formed. They make prayer shawls to support those affected by the heartbreaking reality of not being recognized by a loved one-people like Sam Talbot, who has been barely existing since his wife moved into Memory Care.…


My 3rd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of A Cry in the Dark

Cheri Swalwell Why did I love this book?

This was a new author for me, and she hooked me within the first few chapters. I didn't realize I was reading the second book in the series first, but it didn't matter.

She writes like a Criminal Minds episode. There were so many twists and turns. I kept trying to guess the bad guy and failed! It was downright psychologically scary. I loved the biblical elements woven throughout. It wasn't so gruesome that I wouldn't want to share this book with my daughter or other family members.

I love a great psychological thriller, and this had all the feels and checked all the boxes, even more boxes that I realized I enjoyed! Now, whenever I see Patch's name on a book, I know I'll have to read it! 

By Jessica R. Patch,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked A Cry in the Dark as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Deep in the Kentucky hills, three women have been found brutalized and murdered.
But the folks in Night Holler have their own ways and their own laws.
And they’re not talking…

Led to an isolated Appalachian Mountain town by a trail of disturbing murders, FBI special agent Violet Rainwater’s determined to catch a serial killer with a twisted agenda. With locals refusing to reveal their secrets, Violet’s only ally is Detective John Orlando. But even John has an ulterior motive—he’s convinced this case is connected to his wife’s murder.

As they dig deeper, Violet uncovers a link to her own…


Plus, check out my book…

Adventure's Invitation

By Cheri Swalwell,

Book cover of Adventure's Invitation

What is my book about?

Families stick together. That’s what they do.

It’s no secret that Holly has a crush on Mitch, her older brother’s best friend. A church mission trip offers the chance to add adventure to summer vacation and the added bonus of finally dating the young man of her dreams.

But early into the mission, a senseless tragedy rocks Holly’s carefully laid plans. Now, she faces a future that’s bleaker than she ever could have imagined. Although members of her community blame her for the incident, her family’s support helps her through the rough times.