Author Christmas market lover Friend to all croissants
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 Rosé with My Fake Fiancé

Lark Holiday Why did I love this book?

I adore wanderlust romance, and this book is no exception. It transports you to the City of Lights and immerses you in a totally adorable love story.

It is definitely on the spicy side, but all that heat is backed up with plenty of heart–just the way I like it! This addictive book is a quick and easy read that pairs well with wine. What more could you ask for?

By Liz Alden,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Rosé with My Fake Fiancé as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

In my favorite city in the world, I find myself alone and miserable until a flirty–and much younger–man pretends to be my fiancé.

I thought that by forty-two, I’d be happily married, but somehow, I’ve been the woman men want to date but don’t want to marry. And now, even my friends have left me alone in the city of love.

Alone—except for Luc, the charming tour guide. He refuses to cancel the trip and reminds me what it’s like to feel sexy and desired. He even rekindles my love for Paris by showing me a side of the city…


My 2nd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of The Singapore Stunt

Lark Holiday Why did I love this book?

I definitely had travel on the brain this year. The Singapore Stunt delivered! I was instantly pulled into the story and found myself rooting for both characters.

I highly recommend this one if you are looking for adventure, lovable characters, and a feel-good story. This satisfying and snappy book is the perfect weekend read.

By Mel Walker,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

One Stupid Stunt
Kimberly Conrad, the hottest female movie star in the world, has a problem. A fake romance stunt became a PR disaster that caused her to go from America's sunshine sweetheart to its biggest liar. Her long slow climb back to respectability requires her to do two things–stay away from relationships and do something daring to remake her image.

One incredible Stunt
Mattias Wilkins, the grumpy daredevil stunt coordinator, likes to hide in the shadows. After a lifetime of disappointment, things are finally turning in his favor. He's designed a death-defying stunt that will propel his little company…


My 3rd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of You Had Me at Ice Cream

Lark Holiday Why did I love this book?

I grabbed You Had Me At Ice Cream the minute I saw it based on the title alone, and it did not disappoint! This book is a fun take on an old classic with the male main character getting the makeover.

I finished this humorous, light-hearted tale in no time, mostly because I couldn’t put it down! If you like fun and playful romance, London, and ice cream, this book is for you!

By Angela Pearse, C.G. Lambert,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked You Had Me at Ice Cream as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

From treadmill to true love?


Zara isn't what Oliver expects when he enlists a personal trainer named "Zee" to shed his Covid kilos. She's blonde, brainy, and never says no to a Magnum - something Oliver can get on board with being an ice cream lover himself.


Suddenly, exercising is less excruciating with Zara slogging it out next to him on the treadmill - even if he is paying her for his pain.


Zara isn't oblivious to Oliver's charms and, as they become closer, considers breaking her "never date a client" rule for him. But she could be too late…


Plus, check out my book…

A Darling Handyman

By Lark Holiday,

Book cover of A Darling Handyman

What is my book about?

She has a lodge to run. He is handy with a hammer. When their paths cross in a tiny Alaskan town, will they explore the last frontier together?

If you enjoy kind-hearted heroes, small towns, and more humor than heat, you’ll adore A Darling Handyman!