Welcome to the annual blog post detailing every book that I read the previous year with their ratings and reviews.
In 2023, I managed to read a grand total of 73 books. Not bad going if I do say so myself.
You’ll see a wide mix of authors, genres and tropes throughout this list – some great books and some quite frankly, very bad books.
You can find a more condensed list of my favourite books from 2023 in this blog post linked here.
And if you’re keen to follow my reads during 2024, make sure to follow along on Instagram @orlaghclaire and on Goodreads @orlaghclaire too!
Reviews & Ratings of All 73 Books I Read in 2023
1. All Your Perfects by Colleen Hoover
Quinn and Graham face the unraveling of their seemingly perfect love as the memories, mistakes, and secrets accumulated throughout their imperfect marriage threaten to push them to the brink of irreparable damage.
My rating: ★★★★
I wouldn’t say this is my favourite Colleen Hoover book, as each chapter alternated between then and now scenarios, going back to the past and then to the present. The scenario where the love interests met was strange to say the least and the relationship just felt quite toxic throughout.
2. Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover
Kenna Rowan, seeking redemption after five years in prison, faces the daunting challenge of rebuilding her life in her hometown and reconnecting with her estranged daughter, yet the threat of judgment and the evolving romance with Ledger Ward jeopardize the fragile trust holding their futures in the balance.
My rating: ★★★★★
I think this may be my favourite Colleen Hoover novel. The book evokes a lot of questions and discussion, as well as thinking of putting myself in the shoes of the main female character, the love interest and the family as well. What would I do and how would I react if I was in any of their shoes?
3. The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
Linus Baker, a reserved Case Worker at the Department in Charge Of Magical Youth, is thrust into an extraordinary mission by Extremely Upper Management—to assess and manage six peculiar and potentially world-threatening children on Marsyas Island Orphanage, compelling him to confront his fears and make a judgment that could decide the fate of the world.
My rating: ★★★★
I enjoyed the story and especially loved the characters. It was funny, wholesome and had you rooting for the children involved. However, I dropped a star as it felt like the story was continuously building up to this big event, but when it got to the climax of the book, it fell quite flat. I was expecting Battle-of-Hogwarts-type action, but instead met a quiet protest that lasted two seconds.
4. I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
Malala Yousafzai defied the Taliban’s oppression in the Swat Valley, advocating for her right to education; surviving a point-blank shooting at fifteen, her remarkable recovery propelled her onto the world stage, turning her into a global symbol of peaceful protest and earning her the distinction of being the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize laureate at sixteen.
My rating: ★★★★★
I don’t feel like I should rate this, given the premise of the book and that it covers real-life events. However, I will say one thing: read this book. I had of course heard of Malala before reading this and what happened to her on a school bus back in 2012, but this is the full story told by Malala herself of all the events leading up to that moment and everything that happened afterwards.
5. Bunny by Mona Awad
Samantha Heather Mackey, an outsider in her MFA program, is repelled by her clique of twee and enigmatic fellow writers known as the “Bunnies”; however, her life takes a dark turn when she receives an invitation to their mysterious “Smut Salon” and becomes entangled in their ritualistic off-campus “Workshop,” blurring the lines between reality and a sinister, saccharine world that ultimately leads to a deadly collision between her friendships with Ava and the Bunnies.
My rating: ★★★
What a wild ride this book was. If you’ve seen the movie Heathers, it’s quite similar but if the writer had been on acid. Imagine humans combusting, sacrificing animals and a clique of girls referring to each other as ‘Bunny’. Wild, but I would still recommend it.
6. The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley
Jess, seeking a fresh start in Paris after leaving her job and relying on her half-brother Ben’s hospitality, discovers a surprisingly upscale apartment and an absent Ben, prompting her to delve into his mysterious situation and unravel the enigma surrounding his eclectic and unfriendly neighbors, leading her to question not only her own past but also the uncertain future her brother might be facing.
My rating: ★★★★★
Lucy Foley writes a great murder mystery, and The Paris Apartment is told in the same style as her previous books with each chapter being told from a different person’s point of view and almost every single chapter ending with a cliffhanger. I don’t know how she does it, but there are so many twists and turns that you are never able to guess what’s happening next and whodunnit. Amazing.
7. Ariadne by Jennifer Saint
Ariadne, Princess of Crete, torn between the gods, her family, and her love for Theseus, defies destiny and helps him slay the Minotaur, risking everything for love and leaving behind her beloved younger sister Phaedra, as she grapples with the uncertainty of whether her decision will secure her own happy ending.
My rating: ★★★
Did this book change my mind about reading more Greek Mythology? Not quite. It was better than Circe, I will say that, but I still found there were times when not much was happening and where it started to become confusing with so many different characters and names.
8. Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors
Cleo, grappling with the challenges of New York and a looming visa expiration, encounters Frank, a successful man two decades her senior, and their tumultuous romance offers her a chance at happiness, artistic freedom, and a green card, while reshaping the lives of those around them, including Cleo’s best friend navigating gender identity and Frank’s financially dependent sister exploring unconventional relationships, in a story where a chance meeting on New Year’s Eve alters everything, for better or worse.
My rating: ★★★★★
This tells the story of a 25 year old British girl trying to stay in New York as her visa is running out (relatable) and marries a man in his forties to do so. Their love story unfolds and with it comes issues with alcohol, drugs, depression, grief, money, success (and lack of) and so much more. There are quite a lot of trigger warnings but this book felt so raw and real and I loved every page.
9. Summer Under the Stars by Catherine Ferguson
Daisy, coping with a difficult year, organizes a romantic glamping trip with her boyfriend Toby, who turns out to dislike outdoor activities. As their relationship falters and Toby fails to provide support, Daisy questions if he’s “The One,” especially with the presence of writer Jake across the lake, making the summer getaway a potential source of relaxation or disaster.
My rating: ★★
I started off February reading romance books that I picked up from the library to get in the mood for Valentine’s Day. I picked this book up in particular because it was a relatively short read. However, it was extremely cliche, stupid and had my eye-rolling the entire book.
10. The Road Trip by Beth O’Leary
Addie’s road trip to a friend’s wedding in Scotland takes an unexpected turn when her ex, Dylan, crashes into their car, forcing them to confront their messy history during a jam-packed journey with luggage and secrets, raising questions about reaching the wedding on time and whether it’s truly the end for Addie and Dylan.
My rating: ★★★
The Road Trip wasn’t as great as I had hoped and had nothing on Beth O’Leary’s other books that I’ve read. The entire story took place in a car and followed exes having to travel from London to Scotland for a wedding. There were a lot of coincidences that simply wouldn’t happen in real life and the story just didn’t grip me or have me feeling much for the characters at all.
11. The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren
Unlucky Olive’s life takes a bizarre turn when her twin sister’s wedding party, including her sworn enemy Ethan, falls ill, leaving Olive and Ethan the only unscathed ones and eligible for an all-expenses-paid honeymoon in Hawaii, forcing them to put aside their mutual hatred and pretend to be newlyweds, surprisingly finding themselves feeling kind of lucky amidst the charade.
My rating: ★★★★
After reading a few not-so-good books, I was so glad that this was a page-turner and kept drawing me back to find out what was going to happen next. I was fully invested in the characters and the outcome of the story. I would definitely recommend this for a romance-genre book.
12. Less by Andrew Sean Greer
Facing a failed novel and an impending fiftieth birthday, Arthur Less, with the added blow of his long-time boyfriend’s engagement, decides to escape the awkwardness by accepting a series of half-baked literary invitations from around the world, embarking on a journey that turns into a humorous and soul-searching exploration of life and love.
My rating: ★★★
This is another book that I had seen a lot online and heard very good reviews. Having won the Pulitzer Prize, I had very high hopes. However, it was a slow book where not much happened. I do love a page-turner and a quick read, so this book really wasn’t doing anything for me.
13. My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite
Korede, repeatedly tasked with cleaning up after her sister Ayoola’s lethal acts of self-defense against boyfriends, faces a moral dilemma when Ayoola begins dating the doctor Korede secretly loves, forcing her to confront the ultimate choice between loyalty to family and the potential harm to someone she cares deeply about.
My rating: ★★★
An interesting concept and funny in parts but again, quite like the other books I read this month, it was just mediocre. The book didn’t have me racing through or running to recommend it to anyone else. An ok book but not ground-breaking.
14. Night Music by Jojo Moyes
Isabel Delancey, accustomed to a privileged life, faces upheaval after her husband’s sudden death, leaving her in debt and forcing a move to a dilapidated country home where her presence stirs long-standing obsessions among neighbors; amidst the struggle to transform the house and save her family, Isabel discovers an unexpected instinct for survival and a newfound rhythm for her heart.
My rating: ★★★
I was obsessed with the You Before Me series by Jojo Moyes so had very high hopes for this book too. Although this was a little different in style, the end of the book was probably the most interesting and the part that made me wake up while reading and want to get to the end.
15. My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh
Despite a seemingly perfect life in 2000s Manhattan, the young and privileged narrator struggles with a profound emptiness, navigating loss, a troubled relationship, and a sense of hollowness that transcends the city’s glittering wealth and possibilities.
My rating: ★★★★
I found it quite hard to sympathise with the main character as she lived in an apartment in the Upper East Side of New York with no money worries and no responsibilities. But I found myself wanting to keep reading to see how many more pills her eccentric psychiatrist would keep prescribing to her and what would become of her year of rest and blackouts.
16. Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan
Set in 1985 Ireland, Bill Furlong, a coal and timber merchant, grapples with the intensifying Christmas season, revisiting the past and confronting the complicit silences of a community under the influence of the Church.
My rating: ★★★★★
This short book inspired me to look deeper into the goings on of the Catholic Church and the Magdalene Sisters which I have added to my long list of things to watch. Amazingly written and left me with a lot of intrigue and questions as to what actually happened in these Laundries.
17. The Maidens by Alex Michaelides
Mariana Andros, a troubled group therapist, becomes convinced that the charismatic Greek Tragedy professor, Edward Fosca, is a murderer, particularly within the secret society of female students known as The Maidens, leading her to investigate when one of the members is found murdered in Cambridge.
My rating: ★★★★
This wasn’t as good as The Silent Patient but there was a little Easter egg thrown in to this book to link The Silent Patient which I enjoyed. A lot of twists and turns throughout, and I didn’t expect the ending at all. However, I reduced a star as I didn’t really understand the purpose/motivation behind the murders.
18. Bigger Than Us by Fearne Cotton
This transformative book shares the author’s journey of seeking happiness, connection, and hope by consulting wise minds and exploring concepts like intuition, energy, manifesting, ritual, prayer, and signs, offering inspiration and simple exercises for anyone navigating life’s complexities and aiming to overcome blocks and insecurities.
My rating: ★★★
Bigger Than Us looks at spirituality and things like the law of attraction, past lives and the universe and how it impacts our lives and also how we can become more aware to help it influence our lives in the best way. It wasn’t my favourite self-help book ever, but it did lead me to Fearne’s podcast Happy Place which I have been enjoying a lot.
19. The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida
Set in Colombo, 1990, war photographer Maali Almeida wakes up dead in a celestial visa office, his dismembered body sinking in Beira lake, and with no knowledge of his killer. In a time of violence, his quest in the afterlife is to contact the man and woman he loves, leading them to a hidden cache of photos that could have a profound impact on Sri Lanka.
My rating: ★★★★
The seven moons indicated the time Maali had after dying to set some things straight before going to The Light. If you’ve read 10 Minutes, 38 Seconds in this Strange World by Elif Shafak, you’ll see some similarities. It didn’t overly excite me with the plot, but it was eye opening to read about wartime in Sri Lanka and the different political organisations in the country and also the importance of wartime photographers.
20. Magpie by Elizabeth Day
“Magpie” is a tense and brilliantly written novel that explores the dangers of fulfilling one’s dreams, focusing on a couple trying for a baby entangled with a woman who develops an unhealthy interest in their lives.
My rating: ★★★★
I had heard mixed reviews about this so didn’t go in with high expectations. However, this was so much better than expected and I loved the twists and turns throughout. Definitely a summer read and one that will have you hooked from the outset.
21. The Promise by Damon Galgut
“The Promise” by Damon Galgut is a powerful and finely crafted novel that spans four decades, depicting the tribulations of a white South African family amid the backdrop of a changing nation, marked by four funerals.
My rating: ★★★
The story is told in four parts, covering deaths of different members of Amor’s family. The story was incredibly slow and at times confusing as to who was speaking/thinking due to there being no speech marks throughout the book.
22. Forever, Interrupted by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Elsie Porter’s ordinary life takes an unexpected turn when she meets charming Ben Ross on New Year’s Day, leading to a whirlwind romance and elopement by May. Tragedy strikes when Ben is killed in a bike accident, forcing Elsie to navigate grief and meet her unaware mother-in-law at the hospital.
My rating: ★★★
You can really tell how TJR’s writing has improved over the years with her newer releases and that she’s also found her style writing about celebrities. Her early works are ok, but definitely nothing compared to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo or Malibu Rising.
23. Oh William! by Elizabeth Strout
In the story of writer Lucy Barton, her ex-husband William remains a mystery to her, yet their connection endures. When William invites her to join him on a trip to uncover a family secret, Lucy finds herself both surprised and not surprised, realizing it might reshape everything she thought she knew about their relationship.
My rating: ★★★
Unfortunately I found this to be quite down the middle and average. Even though the characters were written well, I don’t think I could connect to the story due to the characters being in their 70s/80s.
24. White Fragility by Robin Diangelo
“White Fragility” by Robin DiAngelo explores the defensive responses, such as anger and silence, that white people exhibit when confronted with racial challenges. DiAngelo delves into the development of white fragility, its role in perpetuating racial inequality, and offers insights on fostering constructive cross-racial dialogue.
My rating: ★★★★★
My only review of this book is that it should be mandatory reading for everyone. As a white person, it’s imperative to know how much privilege you have and every situation that takes place in.
25. After I Do by Taylor Jenkins Reid
To rekindle their failing marriage, Lauren and Ryan decide on a year-long break with no contact. During this time, Lauren questions traditional notions of love, monogamy, and commitment, prompting a journey of self-discovery as she reevaluates her values and priorities.
My rating: ★★★★
I have finally read everything that Taylor Jenkins Reid has ever published. This book along with Forever, Interrupted are two of her earliest books which is very telling as they’re so different from recent releases like Daisy Jones & The Six and Malibu Rising for example. Of the two I read in April, I definitely favoured this over Forever, Interrupted.
26. My Thoughts Exactly by Lily Allen
Lily Allen’s memoir is a candid reflection on her roles as a woman, mother, wife, and artist, sharing openly about love, success, failure, and personal challenges to contribute to the collective narrative of women and foster positive change.
My rating: ★★★★★
I went into this book not really knowing a lot about Lily Allen as I wasn’t the biggest fan of her music growing up. However, I have huge respect for Lily Allen as a person, artist, mum and everything that she is after reading about her career, what she went through with a stalker and her battle with drinks and drugs.
27. At Night All Blood is Black by David Diop
Alfa Ndiaye, a Senegalese soldier in World War I, grapples with the trauma of refusing a mercy killing for his injured friend. Seeking redemption, he enacts a macabre ritual of nightly sneaking across enemy lines to murder a blue-eyed German soldier and returning with the severed hand.
My rating: ★★★★
I picked this up on the recommendation of Jack Edwards from one of his recent YouTube videos. Although this was a very short book, it definitely packed a punch. With quite a gruesome storyline, it transported you to life in World War I as a soldier and how this impacts emotions/mental health.
28. The No-Show by Beth O’Leary
Siobhan, a quick-tempered life coach, Miranda, a tree surgeon treated as one of the guys, and Jane, a soft-spoken volunteer, are three strangers who share the unfortunate experience of being stood up on Valentine’s Day. Little do they know, they’ve all been stood up by the same man.
My rating: ★★★★★
Now that I’ve read all of Beth O’Leary’s books, I can safely say that The No-Show is my favourite. With three separate love stories happening in this book, all tied to the one man, I was hooked and still can’t get over some of the twists and turns towards the end of the book.
29. Mr Loverman by Bernadine Evaristo
Barrington Jedidiah Walker, a seventy-four-year-old leading a double life in Hackney, navigates the challenges of maintaining a secret homosexual relationship with childhood friend Morris while facing the disappointment of his deeply religious wife, Carmel. As his marriage crumbles, Barrington seeks to break away and divorce Carmel for a chance at a more authentic life with Morris.
My rating: ★★★★★
The main character Barrington is such a loveable character, but his eccentric daughters and wife make the story come to life, along with his soulmate Morris. A truly beautiful story that can make you both laugh and cry.
30. If We Were Villains by M. L. Rio
Released after ten years for a disputed murder, Oliver Marks confronts Detective Colborne, the man behind his imprisonment, in a tale set in an elite arts college. Seven young actors, entangled in their roles both on and off stage, face a death that blurs the lines between theater and reality, compelling them to prove their innocence to the police and themselves.
My rating: ★★★★
Although this book did have a lot of paragraphs and prose from the works of Shakespeare, it was definitely more about the characters of the university and the dynamics and personalities of each of them, trying to find out what happened to one of them. I really liked it, but didn’t love it enough to give five stars.
31. Spare by Prince Harry
In a searing moment of the twentieth century, Prince William and Prince Harry walk behind Princess Diana’s coffin. This is Prince Harry’s long-awaited story, exploring their lives after that poignant moment.
My rating: ★★★★
The book of the moment. I hate to admit that I am one of those people that loves the gossip columns and royal scandal, so I just had to know what was within the pages of this scandalous book. I will say it’s worth a read if you want to know more about the royal family and their dynamic (for lovers of The Crown especially), and I was shocked at some of the stories within the book.
32. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
In the early 1960s, chemist Elizabeth Zott faces gender bias at Hastings Research Institute, except from Calvin Evans, a brilliant colleague who falls in love with her mind. Life takes an unpredictable turn, leaving Elizabeth a single mother and an unexpected star on America’s beloved cooking show, “Supper at Six.” Meet the unconventional and uncompromising Elizabeth Zott.
My rating: ★★★★★
Obsessed. That is the one word that comes to mind when reviewing this book. It’s unlike any romance or fiction book I’ve ever read and that’s why I think I loved it so much. I never saw myself reading a book about Chemistry and I’m sure you’re probably thinking you wouldn’t either, but believe me this is about so much more than chemistry. It’s funny, sassy, full of feminism and one of the best books I read in 2023.
33. A Long Island Story by Rick Gekoski
In 1953, during a heat wave, the Grossmans relocate from Washington DC to Long Island, sparking uncertainties about their future. As Ben and Addie grapple with challenges in suburban life, they question their aspirations, marriage, and family, providing a glimpse into the struggles of a seemingly perfect family in “A Long Island Story.”
My rating: ★★
I picked this up purely based on the name alone as I had been to Long Island and thought it might make me nostalgic for my time in New York. However, it was a short story that didn’t have any real depth to the characters. The kids weren’t likeable and neither were the main characters of the story either.
34. The Girls by Lisa Jewell
In the picturesque communal garden square of urban London, where trusting neighbors share a sense of safety, a thirteen-year-old girl is discovered unconscious one midsummer night. As the mystery unfolds, questions arise about what truly happened to her and who may be responsible.
My rating: ★★★★
This was quite dark from the outset, so you knew what to expect going into the rest of the book. I still had no idea who the culprit was towards the end of the book which is always a great sign of a thriller/mystery writer. I was hooked to the very end and couldn’t put it down for the last 100 pages.
35. Open Water by Caleb Azumah Nelson
Two Black British artists, a photographer and a dancer, meet in South East London, both navigating the challenges of belonging and making their mark. Despite their destined connection, love faces the threat of fear and violence.
My rating: ★★★★★
A beautiful short story about relationships, masculinity and fighting emotions. Set in South London, the characters of this book leapt from the pages and felt incredibly real. For a debut novel, I can’t wait to see what else is to come from Caleb Azumah Nelson as this was exceptional.
36. Boulder by Eva Baltasar
A cook on a merchant ship, known as Boulder, navigates a journey with her partner, Samsa, who desires motherhood. As motherhood changes Samsa, Boulder grapples with conflicting priorities, torn between freedom and love.
My rating: ★★★
An ok read for literary fiction, but as I mostly find with a lot of Booker Prize-listed books, there wasn’t much of a storyline to grip on to.
37. God Help the Child by Toni Morrison
Sweetness grapples with motherly love for her child, Bride, who, in her quest for love, faces betrayal and a painful past. Booker, entangled in his own love-lorn history, struggles to fathom Bride’s depths. Can they navigate the damage from their innocent childhoods and find a path to light and happiness free from pain?
My rating: ★★★★
I struggled to read Beloved which was my first introduction to Toni Morrison’s writing, but I wanted to give it another go as she’s so widely acclaimed. I felt this was a lot easier to read and get into than Beloved, and Toni Morrison always writes such troubling storylines with amazing talent and depth.
38. America for Beginners by Leah Franqui
Recently widowed Pival Sengupta embarks on her first solo trip to the USA with a fixed itinerary and an undisclosed motive—to uncover the truth about her estranged son. Satya, a resourceful tour guide new to America, and aspiring actress Rebecca, Pival’s modesty companion, join the journey. As they challenge preconceptions and navigate America, these unlikely companions might discover how to live again with a little beginner’s luck.
My rating: ★★★★
America for Beginners transported me to both India and all across America (mostly New York) which I adored, plus I learnt a thing or two about Indian culture while digesting it. I laughed quite a lot and sympathised with the underlying storyline that was happening throughout. This is a book I would definitely recommend for some light reading.
39. Is Mother Dead by Vigdis Hjorth
Johanna, a recent widow in Oslo for a motherhood-themed art retrospective, grapples with the complex relationship between motherhood and murder. Controversial paintings have strained her connection with her daughter, and their proximity stirs tension, leading to a mutual stalking of thoughts and spaces.
My rating: ★★★
I liked that the book was set in Norway, having visited this year, and I could picture the fjords where the book was set. This was a strange book, I’ll give it that. A woman who had quite intense mother issues but left me wondering if there was more issues than just abandonment.
40. Black Enough by Ibi Zoboi
“Black Enough,” edited by Ibi Zoboi, is a diverse anthology exploring the concealed thoughts, hidden experiences, and daily challenges of black teens from various backgrounds, including urban and rural, wealthy and poor, mixed race, and immigrants, revealing the richness of diversity within the black community across the country.
My rating: ★★★★
This book of short stories was eye-opening and educational to read, about young Black people across America and the trials and difficulties they experience during the normality of everyday life. Although this was geared towards Young Adult readers, I still found it beneficial to read but found some short stories much better than others.
41. Happy Place by Emily Henry
A couple who broke up months ago make a pact to pretend to still be together for their annual weeklong vacation with their best friends in this glittering and wise new novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Emily Henry.
My rating: ★★★★★
I found Emily Henry’s Beach Read and You and Me on Vacation quite mediocre reads and preferred her newer work, Book Lovers a lot more. Happy Place may now have taken its place of my favourite Emily Henry book.
42. Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata
A brilliant depiction of a world hidden from view, Convenience Store Woman is an ironic and sharp-eyed look at contemporary work culture and the pressures we all feel to conform, as well as a charming and completely fresh portrait of an unforgettable heroine.
My rating: ★★★
I had read Earthlings last year by the same author which was the weirdest and probably most disturbing book I’d read in quite a while, so I didn’t really know what to expect with this one. I will say that CSW was strange, but I did quite like the characters and could understand the comfort in monotony that the main character experienced.
43. Factory Girls by Michelle Gallen
“Factory Girls” is a humorous and compelling tale of a young woman navigating a summer job in a Northern Ireland shirt factory amidst escalating tensions. With biting humor and a keen perspective on wealth, power, religion, and nationalism, the story delves into how young women maintain hope in the face of division and violence.
My rating: ★★★★★
Factory Girls was raw, and touched on the sad history of Northern Ireland while also making light of it and adding in jokes here and there which is very typical of how we deal with things here. It made me chuckle out loud quite a few times and felt very relatable to me and the life I had growing up in a divided town in Northern Ireland. Michelle Gallen is definitely an automatic-read author for me now, and I’ll be recommending her to everyone that I can.
44. A Thousand Boy Kisses by Tillie Cole
One kiss may be fleeting, but a thousand kisses can endure a lifetime. In ‘A Thousand Boy Kisses,’ Rune and Poppy share an unbreakable bond formed in childhood, promising eternal love. However, as Rune returns to Georgia seeking answers to Poppy’s sudden silence, he unravels a heartbreaking truth that challenges the very essence of their enduring connection.
My rating: ★★★
Ok, everyone is obsessed with this book online and if you search the title you’ll see fansites and more with images mocking up the characters and videos that have been made for the book. The cheese and corniness dripping from the book was too much for me and some of the lines had me cringing so hard, but I will admit I did shed a tear at one point.
45. Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield
Miri welcomes her wife Leah back after a deep-sea mission gone awry, but it becomes evident that Leah has brought back something unsettling from the ocean depths. As Miri grapples with the changed dynamics, she senses the woman she loves slipping away, prompting a poignant exploration of the impact of the underwater catastrophe on their once-normal life.
My rating: ★★★★
I loved the different points of view between the two female lead characters and found myself racing through Miri’s chapters to find out what was happening on the submarine in Leah’s chapters. However, the ending and parts of the book nearing the end were quite weird to say the least.
46. Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley
In the struggling environment of East Oakland’s Regal-Hi apartment complex, Kiara and her brother Marcus navigate the challenges of dropout life. When Kiara stumbles into a nightcrawling job after a drunken encounter, her world takes an unexpected turn. As her involvement in an investigation unfolds, she becomes a crucial witness in a scandal rocking the Oakland Police Department, adding a new layer of complexity to her already challenging circumstances.
My rating: ★★★★
I found some of the characters to be quite confusing at times and felt the end really sped up to get to the crux of the story. However, I loved Kiara’s relationship with her neighbour Trevor and there were a lot of beautiful passages throughout the book which made it a four star read.
47. The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
In Toni Morrison’s debut novel, “The Bluest Eye,” set in Lorain, Ohio, young Pecola Breedlove yearns for blue eyes to attain the beauty she believes lies in blond, blue-eyed children. Against the backdrop of 1941, marked by the non-blooming marigolds, Pecola’s life takes a heart-wrenching turn as her desperate wish unfolds in unexpected and devastating ways.
My rating: ★★★★★
This is my third Toni Morrison book and I think it’s my favourite so far. The Bluest Eye was hard to read in parts, telling of the life of young Pecola. Morrison shows that life can be cruel and unkind because of the circumstances you are born into and that bad things happen beyond your control – especially in the case of a child. Hard to read, but very much worth the read too.
48. The Lesser Bohemians by Eimear McBride
In London, an 18-year-old Irish girl embarks on a journey as a drama student, aspiring for fame. As she navigates the challenges of fitting in, she encounters an older, established actor, sparking a tumultuous relationship that unfolds in ways that will leave an indelible mark on her life.
My rating: ★★★★★
Having read Eimear McBride’s debut A Girl is a Half-Formed Thing last year, I understood the style of her writing a lot quicker this time around. Be warned, there are no speech marks and a lot of the sentences are broken or not written in good English. This story felt on par to A Little Life only a much shorter version. A lot of trigger warnings to look out for in this book, but so beautiful.
49. The Housemaid by Freida McFadden
A woman diligently tends to the Winchesters’ house, caring for their daughter and maintaining the facade of domestic harmony. As she becomes entangled in the family’s dysfunction, especially with the enigmatic Andrew, she finds herself drawn to Nina’s seemingly perfect life. However, a dark turn occurs when a simple act of curiosity unravels into a chilling realization about her own confinement in an attic bedroom that locks only from the outside.
My rating: ★★★★★
I read this book in 48 hours. I couldn’t put it down. If I wasn’t working, I probably would have read the whole thing in one sitting. I’ve seen this book everywhere recently and now I see why. I bought this for £2.50 in a This Works store and I’m going to run back to the store to see if they also have the second book in this series. Or anything else Freida McFadden has written. Obsessed.
50. Magnolia Parks by Jessa Hastings
In the tumultuous love story of Magnolia Parks and BJ Ballentine, a London socialite and a notorious lothario, their magnetic connection is marred by a cycle of hurting each other. Despite dating others as a defense mechanism, they keep returning to one another. As their dysfunctional dynamic begins to unravel, the couple must confront a pivotal question: How many chances at love can one truly have in a lifetime?
My rating: ★★★★★
If Chuck and Blair from Gossip Girl were transported to London, they would be Magnolia and BJ. Think couture fashion, socialites and posh people problems. Magnolia Parks gives this and more and I couldn’t read the book fast enough. I can’t wait to fully dive into this series and read even more about these characters.
51. All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven
In “All the Bright Places,” Theodore Finch contemplates suicide but finds moments of reprieve. Violet Markey, grieving her sister’s death, connects with Finch on a bell tower. Their partnership on a project brings solace, allowing Finch to be himself, but as Violet’s world expands, Finch’s shrinks, delving into themes of mental health and relationships.
My rating: ★★★★
All the Bright Places is said to be a hit for fans of The Fault in Our Stars and I can very clearly see why. It provided the same themes and did come across heavily as Young Adult fiction. In a way, I felt like it almost romaticized thoughts of dying suicide, so the book is heavily filled with triggers. But the love story weaved throughout was realistic and beautiful.
52. It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey
In “My Kind of Love,” Piper Bellinger, a fashionable and wild socialite, faces consequences after a chaotic party, leading her stepfather to cut her off. To learn responsibility, she and her sister are sent to run their late father’s dive bar in Washington. Upon arrival, Piper encounters Brendan, a skeptical sea captain, and is determined to prove herself beyond her glamorous image, sparking a journey of self-discovery and transformation.
My rating: ★★★★
Ok this book was quite filthy. I had seen it all over Instagram and Booktube so thought I was getting into a cosy romcom, but instead I got Fifty Shades of Grey. Just a word of warning, don’t let the cartoon cover fool you. That said, I really enjoyed the story and couldn’t put the book down. I love small-town romances so this fit the bill perfectly.
53. Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood
Bee, a neuroengineering enthusiast, faces the challenge of co-leading a project with her former archenemy, Levi Ward. As equipment goes missing and dynamics shift, Bee wonders if Levi might be turning into an ally. The story unfolds with a mix of professional intrigue and romantic tension, leaving Bee to grapple with the ultimate question: What will she do when it’s time to put her heart on the line?
My rating: ★★★
I was a little disappointed by this Ali Hazelwood novel. I previously enjoyed The Love Hypothesis, but Love on the Brain was incredibly predictable and at times a little too corny for me. Plus there were a few scenes that were NSFW (or for reading on the tube). I like the niche of Ali Hazelwood writing love stories around scientists and people that work in STEM, but this one was a bit farfetched for me and I could see the twist coming a mile away.
54. Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score
Bearded and solitary barber Knox finds his peace disrupted when runaway bride Naomi enters his life, accompanied by her niece. Uninterested in complications, Knox helps Naomi navigate her troubles in a rough-and-tumble town. Despite his reluctance, Knox becomes entangled in Naomi’s life, juggling unexpected responsibilities and discovering that a peaceful, solitary existence might not be as satisfying as he thought.
My rating: ★★★★★
Obsessed. That is my review of this book. It may have took 100 pages before the two main characters finally kissed but oh my word I was hooked to this book. The ending had my smiling from ear to ear and wishing it didn’t have to end. After I write this review, I’m off to purchase the next two books in this series.
55. Family of Liars by E. Lockhart
The prequel to “We Were Liars” revisits the Sinclair family in another generation, unfolding a tale of a windswept private island off Massachusetts, an addicted heiress, an unpredictable boy, and a summer marked by unforgivable betrayal and mistakes. Returning to the haunting secrets of the Sinclairs, this story reveals a legacy of lies that has endured for decades.
My rating: ★★★★
Family of Liars is the prequel to We Were Liars, a book that I read back in 2022. As I expected, I struggled to remember what had happened in We Were Liars that would prelude with Family of Liars. It was enjoyable, but from what I remember, We Were Liars was a lot better.
56. My Killer Vacation by Tessa Bailey
During a supposed relaxing Cape Cod vacation, a teacher and her brother discover a corpse in their rental house. A brash bounty hunter arrives to catch the killer, dismissing her true crime skills. As they investigate, he battles a growing attraction, determined to solve the murder and maintain his peace of mind before things escalate further.
My rating: ★★★
This Tessa Bailey book didn’t strike a chord with me as much as It Happened One Summer. I will say that it seems Tessa Bailey likes to write about burly, moody men as her main love interests but this one just didn’t seem that realistic. It seemed that the love interest was obsessed with the main character from the first moment and stuck around ever since.
57. The Family Remains by Lisa Jewell
DCI Samuel Owusu investigates a Thames shore discovery linked to a 30-year-old cold case. Rachel Rimmer rushes to France after her husband’s mysterious death, and Lucy Lamb returns home, connecting with her brother to unravel a shared past that binds them all in unexpected ways.
My rating: ★★★
The sequel to Lisa Jewell’s The Family Upstairs, I enjoyed but struggled with this one. Since it had been so long since I read The Family Upstairs, it was hard to remember who everyone was and how they were connected. The alternating timeline throughout the book was hard to keep track of with the different months and years in each chapter. However, it was a nice form of closure to the story.
58. The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston
As romance ghostwriter Florence Day faces a career crisis after a breakup, her editor refuses an extension, putting her livelihood at risk. However, a call about her father’s passing brings her back home after a decade. Amid the funeral chaos, she encounters a ghost who happens to be her too-handsome but deceased editor. Now, with unfinished business and unexpected twists, Florence questions everything she knows about love stories.
My rating: ★★★
The Dead Romantics was giving Just Like Heaven – the romcom with Reese Witherspoon and Mark Ruffalo. Our main character Florence, can see dead people. But the weirdest part was that she was starting to fall in love with one particular ghost that was following her around. It was quite obvious how this was going to end, but it was an enjoyable love story all the same.
59. Everyone is Watching by Megan Bradbury
“Everyone is Watching” is a novel celebrating the lives and perspectives of iconic creators who shaped New York. Through their stories and art, the book captures the dynamic, ever-changing essence of the city—a love letter to New York and its people across different eras.
My rating: ★★★★
I did the thing that seasoned readers aren’t meant to do and picked this book up purely because of its cover. Although it was a work of fiction, it was loosely based on real people and real occurrences in New York. I learnt things about the city and how it came to be the mega metropolis that it is today.
60. Dating You Hating You by Christina Lauren
Carter and Evie, Hollywood agents from rival firms, hit it off despite competition. When their agencies merge, turning their romance into a sabotage war for the same position, the comedic clash raises the question: why can’t they act their age?
My rating: ★★★
Christina Lauren has a very wide catalogue of books, so I’m happily making my way through them one at a time. This enemies to lovers trope was effective, and I enjoyed the Hollywood element, but sometimes it did come across as a little childish and unrealistic.
61. The American Roommate Experiment by Elena Armas
In the midst of a secret career shift to romance writing, Rosie faces writer’s block and a crumbling New York apartment ceiling. Unaware that her best friend lent the place to her Instagram-stalked crush, Lucas, Rosie finds herself surprised by a Spanish knight in a towel, armed with a distracting grin, an irresistible accent, and unexpected culinary skills.
My rating: ★★★
This book is actually the second in a series, after The Spanish Love Deception. I don’t think it was an issue that I hadn’t read the first book as this deals with different characters (although related). The romance seemed far-fetched to me and unrealistic so I couldn’t get into it too much.
62. The People on Platform 5 by Clare Pooley
Iona Iverson, a lively advice columnist, observes her fellow commuters on the train daily. When Smart-But-Sexist-Manspreader chokes on a grape, a chance encounter leads to unexpected connections among the eclectic group of passengers, proving that simple moments can blossom into meaningful relationships.
My rating: ★★★★★
This was some great light-hearted reading with so many eccentric characters that I would very much recommend to you for some escapism. However, I don’t see myself sparking up conversations with the passengers around me on my morning commute anytime soon.
63. Twisted Love by Ana Huang
Alex Volkov, a devil with an angelic face haunted by a tragic past, is consumed by ruthless pursuits for success and vengeance. Forced to care for his best friend’s sister, Ava Chen, a free spirit with a broken past, sees beyond his icy exterior. Their unexpected love unleashes secrets that could jeopardize them and everything they hold dear.
My rating: ★★★
This is a series I’ve seen all over Booktube and even though I’m not usually one for a book series, I had to see what all the fuss was about. I think this could have been a really good story if it wasn’t so dramatised. The murder/revenge aspect just seemed a little out-there to me, plus the backstories of the main characters. I’m not rushing to pick up the next in the series, but I’ll probably get around to it eventually.
64. The Housemaid’s Secret by Freida McFadden
Grateful for a job at the Garricks’, cleaning their penthouse, I aim to keep a low profile until I achieve my goals. However, I haven’t met Mrs. Garrick or seen the guest bedroom. Suspicions arise when I hear crying and discover blood on her nightgowns. Knocking on her door changes everything as it swings open to reveal a shocking truth.
My rating: ★★★★★
I read The Housemaid at the end of August and was obsessed. I will say that this second one wasn’t as good as the first but I think that was because I had left so much time between reading this and the first one and I was getting a little confused by the characters, but it still had all the same dramatic twists and turns that you didn’t see coming which made it a 5-star read again.
65. The Long Game by Elena Armas
Adalyn Reyes’ meticulously planned routine is upended when a viral video lands her in hot water with the Miami Flames FC. Instead of firing her, her father, the team owner, sends her to North Carolina to turn around the struggling Green Warriors soccer team as a redemption project. However, Adalyn’s plans crumble when she realizes the team is made up of nine-year-old kids. To add to the challenge, the town also hosts Cameron Caldani, a talented goalkeeping prodigy with a mysterious presence.
My rating: ★★★
This was a cute rom-com but the book confused me from the first few pages and the love story didn’t actually kick into action until 200 pages in. The slow burn was far too slow. I think I’ll give The Spanish Love Deception a go, and then that will be my last read from Elena Armas for a while.
66. Big Girl by Mecca Jamilah Sullivan
Malaya Clondon, an eight-year-old in 1990s Harlem, resists her mother’s weight loss measures and societal expectations of “ladyness.” Despite fad diets and high-cardio dance classes, Malaya finds solace in music and her father, Percy. Tensions at home escalate until a family tragedy forces her to confront the source of her longing on her own terms.
My rating: ★★★★
I enjoyed this a lot, but found it to be quite a slow read and it took me a while to get into it. I liked reading about the history of Harlem and envisioning the 90s of New York with Biggie Smalls on the radio. Although this book definitely had a deeper meaning and had me thinking about weight and how this is something that’s constantly at the forefront of my mind (especially as a woman).
67. The House Across the Lake by Riley Sager
Recently widowed actress Casey Fletcher seeks solace in her family’s Vermont lake house, observing the glamorous couple, Tom and Katherine Royce, across the lake. Bonding after Casey saves Katherine from drowning, they form a friendship. However, as their connection deepens, Casey realizes the seemingly perfect marriage of Tom, a tech innovator, and Katherine, a former model, is far from idyllic.
My rating: ★★★★
I had seen this book all over Booktube during the summer and had been very intrigued to get my hands on it. I love a thriller/mystery novel and Riley Sager’s name was one that I was hearing a lot. I did enjoy it, with all its twists and turns. It did get quite far-fetched towards the end which put me off a little, but it was enjoyable all the same.
68. Idol by Louise O’Neill
Samantha Miller, an influential figure to her young fans, is an oracle guiding them on life, happiness, and truth. With a booming career, her latest book “Chaste” tops bestseller lists. However, when she shares an essay about her teenage sexual awakening with her female best friend, Lisa, who comes forward with a darker memory, a clash of perspectives ensues, leaving the question of who gets to tell the story.
My rating: ★★★
A book centred around a famous social media influencer/guru that shone a light on how quickly someone can build a following, and also how quickly they can lose it. An interesting storyline, but I felt like it could have been told a lot better.
69. The Maid by Nita Prose
Molly Gray, who struggles with social skills since her gran’s death, thrives as a hotel maid with her love for cleaning and etiquette. However, her orderly life takes a dark turn when she discovers Charles Black dead in his suite, leading the police to target her as the prime suspect. Now, Molly must navigate the complexities of the investigation and prove her innocence.
My rating: ★★★★
And yet another book that I had seen everywhere this year and that has been topping the Amazon charts for a while. This was a really good book, but the main character reminded me a little of Eleanor Oliphant and I’m not sure if the book was favourable towards her. A good mystery all the same and I can definitely see this being adapted into a TV show soon.
70. Survive the Night by Riley Sager
Charlie shares a ride with Josh Baxter, a stranger from a college ride-share board, both leaving university mid-term. As they travel, they avoid discussing the Campus Killer, but Charlie suspects discrepancies in Josh’s story. Fearing he might be the killer, she plans an escape, realizing Josh seems to anticipate her every move.
My rating: ★★★
Since I enjoyed my first Riley Sager book at the beginning of this month, I decided to opt for another. Even though the story mainly took place inside a car, it stayed interesting and unexpected. There were times when I felt like screaming at the main character for putting herself in stupid situations, but I had cracked the twist at the end just before it came. With so many little characters, it became a little obvious.
71. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Violet Sorrengail, originally meant for a quiet life in the Scribe Quadrant, is thrust into the rigorous competition to become a dragon rider, ordered by her commanding general mother. Despite the danger, Violet faces the harsh reality that dragons don’t bond with “fragile” humans, leading to deadly competition among candidates. Amidst the rising external threats, Violet also uncovers a potential dark secret within the leadership.
My rating: ★★★★★
I am not a fantasy reader and never really have been but I just had to see what the fuss was about with this book and oh my word, it did not disappoint. I’m so glad there’s a second book in this series and that it’s already available because this will be one of the first things I read in 2024, that’s for sure. So, even if you’re not a fantasy reader like I thought I wasn’t, I think you’re going to love this.
72. Daisy Haites by Jessa Hastings
Daisy Haites, the heiress to London’s criminal empire, longs for a normal life under the watchful eye of her gang-lord brother, Julian. Her complicated life takes a romantic turn when she falls for Christian Hemmes, who is entangled in his own emotional struggles, being in love with his best friend’s girlfriend. As their unexpected romance unfolds, they grapple with the high price that comes with love in their complex world, where relationships intersect and tangle, revealing that life’s most worthwhile pursuits may demand a payment in blood.
My rating: ★★★★★
I want to stay in the Magnolia Parks Universe forever. I’m actually dreading when they make this into a TV series or movie series because I have the characters in my head and I just know they’re going to ruin it. I’m tempted to even say that I preferred Daisy Haites over Magnolia Parks, but the whole book had me screaming for Daisy and Christian to stop being so stubborn and be together. It was definitely a frustrating book, but I couldn’t put it down for 48 hours. Obsessed.
73. A Winter in New York by Josie Silver
Upon moving to New York, Iris explores Little Italy and discovers a family-run gelateria. Meeting Gio, she learns the shop is in danger of closing due to his uncle’s coma, the guardian of their family’s gelato recipe. Iris realizes their gelato matches her mother’s secret recipe, posing a dilemma on how to reveal this connection and understand the reason her mother was entrusted with the cherished family secret.
My rating: ★★★
I was disappointed from the very first line of the book as it set the scene at ‘Logan’s Bookstore’. Now, you’ll know that I know every single bookstore there is in New York City and I knew right then that Logan’s bookstore didn’t exist. I was hoping to read this book and be transported to places I know, but only a few earned a mention throughout the book. It was a very cute rom-com but I did find the main character quite selfish – why wouldn’t she share the ice cream recipe so the gelateria wouldn’t be at risk of closing?
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