Author Avid reader Editor Cat lover Dreamer
The best books of 2023

This list is part of the best books of 2023.

We've asked 1,627 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 House of Ravens

Mandi Oyster Why did I love this book?

I’ve read so many amazing books in the last year, but I chose this one because it introduced me to a new world full of amazing characters with fantastic abilities. The magic system was flawlessly crafted.

The places she took me to were amazing. I was drawn in with exceptional writing and held captive until the end by an intriguing plot. 

By Jenny Sandiford,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

Something dark awoke inside him…

Sixteen-year-old Torin will be a shadow mage; it’s his destiny. But when he discovers his father’s legacy is built on lies and innocent blood, Torin’s eyes are opened to a dark new reality. And he wants no part of it.

But, in a cruel twist of fate, Torin manifests a rare Shadow Magic power—killing with the touch of his hand—and becomes a pawn for his father’s vengeance.

With blood on his hands and a future paved with death, Torin must make a choice—betray his father and do what is right, or take on his dark…


My 2nd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of The Rebellious Sister

Mandi Oyster Why did I love this book?

This is another book that brought me into an amazing new world filled with all sorts of creatures from myth. 

I was drawn in instantly by a snarky heroine and Plato, a talking cat. It was a fast-paced book that was nearly impossible to put down, and I read the next 11 books in the series without coming up for air.

By Michael Anderle, Sarah Noffke,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

Olivia Beaufont likes fixing things and keeping to herself. She’s simple like that—but her life is about to drastically change.

Liv is a rebel with royal blood who abdicated her birthright. A string of murders changes everything and the House of Seven asks her to take on a role as a Warrior, one of seven positions revered for protecting magic.

Although Liv would rather stay out of the politics and conspiracies that she ran away from years ago, her family needs her. It’s only a twelve-year stint until her sister, the next in line, can take over.

So, what’s the…


My 3rd favorite read in 2023…

Book cover of Dark is the Wood

Mandi Oyster Why did I love this book?

I was a bit afraid to read this book because I Loved Kristin Ward’s Daughter of Erabel series. What if this book didn’t live up to that? Let me tell you, there was no reason to fear being let down.

Ward is an exceptional author. Her characters are real, her landscapes are stunning, and her plots are well-thought-out. I couldn’t put this book down until the last page was turned, and then, I couldn’t stop thinking about it.

By Kristin Ward,

Why should I read it?

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


Plus, check out my book…

Dacia Wolf & the Prophecy

By Mandi Oyster,

Book cover of Dacia Wolf & the Prophecy

What is my book about?

She doesn’t want to stand out. Too bad the fate of the planet rests on her shoulders.

If you like gritty female characters, discovering inner strength, and high-stakes action, then you’ll love Mandi Oyster’s heated tale.

My book recommendation list