Looking for the perfect New Year’s gift? Why not choose a book from the best of 2023? Books make thoughtful and personal gifts, offering a world of knowledge, adventure, and inspiration. Whether it’s a gripping thriller, a heartwarming romance, a groundbreaking self-help guide, or a captivating fantasy novel, there’s something for everyone. Here is list of 10 Books of 2023 perfect for Gifting This New Year, ensuring your gift will be cherished and enjoyed. Dive in and pick the perfect book to start someone’s year off right.
10 Books of 2023 perfect for Gifting This New Year
The Right Move (Windy City, #2) by Liz Tomforde
A heartwarming book “The Right Move” by Liz Tomforde is about Ryan Shay, an ideal romantic partner, and Indy, a relatable woman with a people-pleasing nature. The story beautifully explores their individual growth and their journey together as soulmates. Indy’s struggle to overcome heartbreak and her personal growth are portrayed realistically, moving away from typical clichés.
The book, though long, remains engaging with its simple plot and cozy atmosphere. Ryan’s past traumas and his journey towards healing, especially after meeting the caring Indy, add depth to the story. It’s a comforting read about love, healing, and finding true soulmates.
The Housemaid’s Secret (The Housemaid, #2) by Freida McFadden
An exciting psychological thriller “The Housemaid’s Secret” by Freida McFadden is a sequel to her hit novel “The Housemaid.” This book is perfect for fans of suspense and surprises. It’s set in New York, which adds a real and familiar feel, especially with cool references to local spots.
The story continues with Millie, the main character, and is full of unexpected plot twists that will keep you glued to the pages. The author does a great job of keeping the story fast-paced and thrilling, making it a must-read for those who love a good mystery with a shocking ending. Overall, it’s a top-notch thriller.
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
A touching story “Hello Beautiful” by Ann Napolitano is about the Padavona family, much like the characters in “Little Women.” It focuses on Julia and her sisters, who have unique personalities, and William, a guy who feels out of place in his own family.
Julia tries to shape William into her ideal husband, but a big family crisis tests everyone’s relationships. The story is quite emotional and feels very real, as it shows how people often struggle with making themselves happy. It’s a deep book that makes you feel for the characters, and it’s so good you won’t want it to end.
Tress of the Emerald Sea (The Cosmere) by Brandon Sanderson
A magical and enchanting book, “Tress of the Emerald Sea” by Brandon Sanderson is perfect for starting the new year. It’s part of Sanderson’s secret novel series and is set in a vivid fantasy world. The story follows Tress, a girl from a small island, who goes on an adventurous journey to save her friend.
The book is full of exciting sea voyages and has a warm, fairy tale feel. It’s beautifully written and includes stunning illustrations. The story is engaging, with themes of bravery, empathy, and the power of stories. It’s a great read for both young adults and adults, blending fantasy and life lessons seamlessly.
The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer
A heartwarming story “The Wishing Game” by Meg Shaffer is about Lucy, a young woman who dreams of adopting a boy named Christopher. She gets invited to a contest on Clock Island, hosted by famous author Jack Masterson, to win a unique book. The contest, inspired by Willy Wonka, involves Lucy and three other contestants who had asked Jack for help as kids.
They face challenges and riddles, and along the way, Lucy reconnects with Hugo, Jack’s assistant. The book deals with tough topics but remains uplifting, celebrating the power of books and the joy of found family and love. It’s a feel-good, magical story with a hint of romance and a great cover.
Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood
A fun and romantic book “Love, Theoretically” by Ali Hazelwood tells the story about Elsie, a theoretical physicist, and her rocky relationship with Jack Smith, a colleague who challenges her for her dream job at MIT. Despite their initial disagreements, they have undeniable chemistry.
Elsie, who’s juggling her tough academic life and personal challenges, finds herself attracted to Jack, even though he’s connected to a past controversy. The book is filled with witty dialogues, humorous situations, and a heartwarming enemies-to-lovers theme. It’s a delightful read with great characters, making it a favorite for those who enjoy quirky, STEM-themed romance stories.
Out on a Limb by Hannah Bonam-Young
Hannah Bonam-Young’s “Out on a Limb” is a heartwarming story about Winnifred “Win” McNulty, who prides herself on her independence despite having a limb difference. Her life takes an unexpected turn after a one-night stand with Bo, a charming guy.
This encounter leads them to explore a friendship, although things don’t always go as planned. The story is touching and emotional, highlighting how Win and Bo support each other and embrace their unique qualities. Bo’s nerdy charm and Win’s supportive nature make their relationship special. This book, full of sincere emotions and growth, is a delightful read about love and acceptance.
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
The novel “Tom Lake” by Ann Patchett is a touching story set during the COVID-19 lockdown. It focuses on Lara Kenison, a former actress who now works in a cherry orchard in Michigan with her family. As she spends time with her daughters, they become curious about her past, especially her brief romance with actor Peter Duke.
Lara shares stories from her acting days and her life, revealing her thoughts and memories. The novel beautifully intertwines past and present, exploring themes like family, love, ambition, and motherhood. It’s a slow-paced, character-driven story that’s emotionally rich and satisfying, with references to the play “Our Town” adding depth to the narrative.
Things We Left Behind (Knockemout, #3) by Lucy Score
The book “Things We Left Behind” by Lucy Score is a passionate and emotional story in the Knockemout series. It revolves around Lucian Rollins, a rich businessman seeking revenge, and Sloane Walton, a determined librarian with her own quest for justice. Their relationship starts with dislike and a shared secret but turns unexpectedly romantic after a steamy encounter.
However, their future is uncertain due to differences in life goals. Lucian’s fear of harming Sloane leads him to leave her, causing tension and heartache. The book is a mix of intense emotions, humor, and the warmth of a found family, making it a memorable and enjoyable read.
The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young
An extraordinary sci-fi/fantasy novel “The Unmaking of June Farrow” by Adrienne Young is filled with mind-bending twists and a complex family saga. The story focuses on June Farrow, the last in a line of women cursed with madness. She begins experiencing strange visions and discovers a mysterious red door that leads her on a time-traveling adventure to save her family from their fate.
The book combines a murder mystery, a heartfelt love story, and powerful feminist themes. It’s a thrilling ride that challenges beliefs and dives deep into themes of identity, family, and sacrifice. This captivating book is a standout in its genre, offering a unique and emotionally charged reading experience.
Also Read: 10 Books of 2023 perfect for Gifting This Christmas
