2023 Book Review - My 9 Favorite Books of the Year
2023 was a fun year in reading for me. I read 72 books across many genres, and I wanted to share my top reads of the year with you. You could listen to any of them as audiobooks as well for $0 with an Audible free trial, or use the Libby app connected with a public library.
Best Overall: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
This one was a popular read among friends this year, and after reading it I understand why. It's an engrossing story of a young woman trying to survive life as a dragon rider, with a side of romance. I also read #2 in this series, Iron Flame, and it was even better. I'll be reading the third as soon as it's available.
Most Impactful #1: Rest is Resistance: A Manifesto by Tricia Hersey
I read this one as an audiobook and it felt like being read to by the most calming and loving person you could imagine. I am a fan of Hersey's social media work (The Nap Ministry) and her book takes that message to an entirely new level. As someone healing from grind culture, this book was a meaningful step forward.
Most Impactful #2: Life Reimagined: The Science, Art, and Opportunity of Midlife by Barbara Bradley Hagerty
As I head into midlife, I have been wanting to learn more from those ahead of me about how to make the most of these years I am lucky enough to get to live. Packed with research and stories, it was so helpful to remind me about what matters most in this stage of life.
Best New Series: Mountain Town Murder (Jackson Hole Moose's Bakery Not So Cozy Mystery, #1) by Sue Pepper
My friend Alyssa wrote this book, and I wanted to support her by purchasing a copy. I fell entirely in love with the series and just finished the 6th book in the series earlier this month. They're fun reads that will put a smile on your face.
Best YA Novel: Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley
This is a great book, and my friend Laurel described it well in her review: "What a phenomenal book! I recommend reading it without knowing much about it. It’s riveting, complex in plot, themes, culture and character development. A little over-the-top perhaps in a delicious YA/thriller kind of way, but overall a masterpiece of a novel for all ages."
Most Necessary: Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley
Reading for me is often about enjoyment (and I did enjoy this book), but I also make it a point to read books that help me build a better understanding of those whose lives are different from mine. Nightcrawling, written by the incredible 17-year-old author Leila Mottley, made it on my list because it's set in Oakland where Mottley grew up and it's the story of Kiara and her brother growing up and struggling with many challenges thrown their way. It's an incredible story, and I recommend the audiobook because the narrator tells it in an incredibly compelling way.
Pageturner: Zero Days by Ruth Ware
I love this author and have read many of her books. This one is my favorite yet - a story about a woman unraveling the pieces to a mystery that has taken her life apart within a few hours.
Most Fun: The Bodyguard by Katherine Center
This story is fun and comforting. An elite bodyguard is hired to protect a celebrity actor, and of course hijinx and romance follow.
Most Mouthwatering: Crying in H Mart: A Memoir by Michelle Zauner
This is a memoir about growing up Korean American, losing her mother, and how Korean food played a key role in all of it. An incredible debut from an author I hope to read more from in the future.
About The Author
Jessica Eastman Stewart is a consultant, workshop facilitator, and podcast guest expert. She teaches busy professionals how to get more organized at home and at work so they can stop feeling worn out and start living a Joyfully Managed Life! Thousands of readers drop everything when her weekly newsletter, The Friday Five, arrives in their inbox. Every Friday, you’ll get FIVE amazing tips to help life feel INSTANTLY more joyful and easy!
