The best books of 2023

This list is part of the best books of 2023.

Join 1,708 readers and share your 3 favorite reads of the year.

My favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of The Other Half of the Grave

CJ Bahr I this book because...

I’m a huge fan of the Night Huntress series, and the characters are reason number one. It was hard to say goodbye. So when Jeaniene Frost decided to re-write book one from the perspective of my favorite fictional vampire, Bones, I was all in.

Stepping into the shoes of the charming, witty, and fiercely protective vampire took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. His love for Cat is on full display, and his loyalty knows no bounds. It was so fun learning his side of the story. I fell head over heels for Bones all over again in this sizzling addition to the series, making it an absolute must-read for Night Huntress fans.

By Jeaniene Frost,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Other Half of the Grave as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

From the New York Times bestselling author of the Night Huntress series comes a thrilling new look at the iconic origin story of Cat and Bones, as experienced by Bones...from the other half of the grave.


There are two sides to every story-and the sizzling British alpha vampire, Bones, has a lot to say...


Ever wondered what Bones was thinking and feeling when he and half-vampire Cat Crawfield first met? Or how their story might differ if he were the one telling it? Now, relive the beginning of Cat and Bones' bestselling love story through Bones' point of view, which…


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My 2nd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of Trapped In Ice

CJ Bahr I this book because...

This is really a recommendation for the whole Ice Breakers series by Cynthia Eden. It’s about a group of people from various backgrounds who come together to solve cold cases.

In Trapped In Ice, it stars one of my favorite icebreakers, Smith Sanders. I was so happy when it was time for his story. He’s the type of anti-hero you love—sarcastic, annoying, and fierce. Smith hasn’t met a dangerous situation he hasn’t laughed at.

Knowing he had a secret crush on Madelyn in high school and then meeting her again sixteen years later when she’s in danger, flips this romantic suspense up a notch. I loved it when bad boy Smith falls hard for the good girl.

By Cynthia Eden,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

She never expected her hero to be the bad boy from her past…

They hate each other.

Or at least, Smith Sanders always believed Madelyn Lake hated him. But when the city plunges into darkness and he finds himself trapped in an elevator with the prim and ever-so-reserved Madelyn, he realizes that hate and desire can be twined dangerously close together. The simmering tension that has existed between them since they were sixteen years old explodes in a sensual frenzy that sweeps past their control.

It won’t ever happen again.

Power returns. So does sanity. They go their separate ways…


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My 3rd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of From The Grave

CJ Bahr I this book because...

Spoiler, From The Grave, by Kresley Cole, is the final installment of The Arcana Chronicles and can’t be read as a standalone. It’s sad and worrying when you know it’s the last book in a series, wondering how things will wrap up and if it will be satisfying. AKA, Lost or Game Of Thrones, television endings… However, this book isn’t one to disappoint, though I’m crushed to leave these characters and world.

Evie and Aric's journey culminates in a way that's both heart-wrenching and heartwarming, providing the closure I wanted. The world-building, character development, and pulse-pounding action throughout the series reach a magnificent conclusion. With twists and turns that keep you guessing until the very end.

It's a must-read for lovers of paranormal romance and post-apocalyptic adventure.

By Kresley Cole,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked From The Grave as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 13, 14, 15, and 16.

What is this book about?

Kresley Cole's New York Times bestselling Arcana Chronicles series comes to a spectacular and fiery conclusion in this final installment.

When even the gods hold their breath . . .

To defeat the Emperor and Fortune, Evie, the great Empress of Arcana, must repair her bond with Death, despite the earth-shattering developments between them.

And danger lurks in every shadow . . .

Their allies-a sea witch, a band of roving warriors, and more than a couple of rogues-overcome terrifying obstacles to help them. But when Jack makes a shocking discovery, the fallout threatens to tear their alliance apart.

One…


Don‘t forget about my book 😀

Walking Through Fire

By CJ Bahr,

Book cover of Walking Through Fire

What is my book about?

Simon MacKay, the last Earl of Cleitmuir, was murdered two hundred years ago because of his family’s dangerous legacy. Alone and cursed, he haunts his home in order to protect the lost treasure. A pastime that leaves him angry and embittered until he meets a feisty American Tourist. Not only is Laurel sexy and beautiful, she can also see him in his ghostly form.

Antiquities expert, Laurel Saville, leaves Chicago to visit her best friend in the romantic Scottish Highlands. Laurel risks everything, including her life, to help Simon resolve the issues keeping him earthbound. But will she lose him forever, or is there a way Laurel can keep him with her on this earthly plane?