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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 Right on Cue

Jody Holford Why did I love this book?

Ballard’s book was full of humor, heat, and amazing dialogue.

The vivid descriptions pulled me into the book, making me feel like I was on set with these characters and rooting for them from the sidelines. The characters had a depth and vulnerability that pulled at my heartstrings and the ending was perfection; exactly what my hopelessly romantic heart needed. 

By Falon Ballard,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

From the beloved author of Just My Type and Lease on Love comes a new romantic comedy in which a former actress-turned-screenwriter finds herself back in the spotlight, only for her romantic lead to be the one man she can’t stand.

Hollywood darling Emmy Harper is considered the queen of writing romantic comedies. That is, until tragedy struck and she swore she’d never write another happy ending again. After some time away, and lots of encouragement from family and friends, Emmy is finally ready to dive back into the genre with her latest project. But more is riding on this…


My 2nd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of The Last Word

Jody Holford Why did I love this book?

A good cozy mystery has lovable characters and a setting that pulls you into the story.

The Last Word did this and more. The main character’s unique job, her posse of quirky side characters, and the swoon-worthy love interest had me racing through the pages trying to solve the mystery while hoping everyone made it out alive. And in love. 

By Gerri Lewis,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

An obituary writer finds one of her neighbors dead before her time in this debut cozy mystery perfect for fans of Jenn McKinlay and Eva Gates.

Obituary writer Winter Snow is no stranger to grief, and writing obituaries for the citizens of Ridgefield, Connecticut, is her way of providing comfort to those who have been in her shoes. But funerals and eulogies are meant for the dead, so when the very much alive Leocadia Arlington requests her own obituary by the end of the week, Winter’s curiosity is piqued. Even more so when she finds Mrs. Arlington dead soon after.…


My 3rd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of Savor It

Jody Holford Why did I love this book?

With an undercurrent of heartache, Savor It left readers reaching for hope and believing in love.

The menagerie of pets and cast of fun characters was relatable and enjoyable. The steam and sweetness between the leads leapt off the page and made you root for a happy ending. 

By Tarah DeWitt,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

Summer won't last forever.

Sage Byrd has lived in the coastal town of Spunes, Oregon (not to be confused with Forks, Washington) her entire life. She's learned to love her small world, with the misfit animals on her hobby farm, and her friendships with the town’s inhabitants. But when her 5-year relationship ends and her ex, town-golden-boy Ian, suddenly gets engaged, Sage needs a win―something that will convince everyone to stop pitying her all the time, and to put Ian in his place. The Festival of Spunes, the town’s annual summer competition, would be the perfect opportunity. She just needs…


Plus, check out my book…

A Convenient Christmas

By Jody Holford,

Book cover of A Convenient Christmas

What is my book about?

Christmas Concierge, Abigail Smith can wrap all of your holiday details in a beautiful bow. When her oldest client hires her to add a little cheer to her son's life, Abby is up for the challenge. Divorced dad, Finn Edenbury is dreading spending this holiday season alone. His daughter, Melody, will be with his ex. Which is why he overreacts and fires the beautiful, tree-trimming woman he finds in his home.

But a change of plans that means Finn will spend the holidays with Melody after all, has him turning to Abby with an apology and a request: help him make Melody's Christmas magic. The Queen of Christmas and “Scrooge” end up wanting something for Christmas that neither of them expected: each other.