15 Best Debut Authors of the year 2023

Explore the 15 Best Debut Authors of the year 2023, showcasing diverse voices and compelling narratives across genres. A collection of promising talents shaping the literary landscape with their remarkable first works.

Shannon Morgan

One of 2023’s standout debut authors Shannon Morgan brings a wealth of life experiences to her writing. She is an adventurous soul with a nomadic history spanning Kashmir to Madagascar, now calls the windswept English moors home.

Her debut book, “HER LITTLE FLOWERS,” weaves Gothic mystery and family drama, delving into hidden family secrets and repressed memories. Available widely, the novel promises an absorbing journey through past and present, entwined with eerie revelations.

Jessica Joyce

An avid reader since childhood Jessica Joyce, honed the skill of walking and reading simultaneously. Influenced by a family of romance readers, she found a passion for crafting love stories and immersing herself in the worlds she creates through her words.

In Jessica Joyce’s captivating debut, “You, with a View,” Noelle discovers her grandmother’s lost love story, embarking on a road trip with an unexpected companion, blending enemies-to-lovers and heartfelt connections.

K.J. Micciche

A Queens-born novelist K.J. Micciche nurtured her love for reading since childhood, sneaking reads of “The Babysitters Club” under covers. Alongside writing, she runs a non-profit aiding dyslexic kids.

The story in “The Book Proposal” revolves around Gracie, a romance writer with writer’s block and a recent breakup, impulsively emails her high school crush, Colin, who’s now a successful attorney. Surprisingly, they strike up a friendship that’s heading toward romance. Colin’s breakup stories inspire Gracie’s writing, but using his life for her book might cause unexpected problems.

Tubati Alexander

The writer Neely Tubati Alexander is a first-generation Indian American mom of two from Seattle. Her first book, “Love Buzz,” happens mostly there. She wants to share fun stories about women who are strong and diverse. In her stories, these women look for both love and successful careers.

The first chapter of this book is exciting and promised a good story. Neely’s writing is fun, and the main character goes on a journey to figure out what she really wants in life. The message of this book is about following your instincts. But more than that, the book is just plain enjoyable! It’s both meaningful and joyful. It balances the main character’s emotions and her romantic story.

Lena Jeong

The writer Lena Jeong wrote her first book when she was in fifth grade, with a funny story about a hero named Macaroni Pizza and a dragon allergic to men. Her first book is ”Break the Pretty Kings” and it’s got everything: a strong main character, close siblings, brave female fighters, folklore elements, and beautiful writing.

One gets lost in Mirae’s world and felt connected to her feelings and relationships. The magical parts were fascinating, and the bad guys were both scary and interesting. The ending left everyone excited and eager for the next book.

Lauren Kay

The debut author Lauren Kay lives in Brooklyn with her family and cat, Sneezy. Her first book, “We Ship It,” is a romantic comedy.

The story is about Olivia Schwartz, who has a well-organized plan for her future. She wants a perfect SAT score, to attend a great college, and become a doctor. But her summer plans change when she goes on a cruise with her family and meets Sebastian, who is adventurous and different from her. Olivia starts having fun for the first time. However, the cruise brings up hidden family secrets that force Olivia to confront her past and rethink her future.

Jenna Miller

The writer who writes about young adult book Jenna Miller mostly focuses on confident, fat, nerdy, and queer girls. Her debut novel is “Out of Character,” followed by “We Got the Beat.” In her book, the main character Cass, similar to the reviewer’s own experiences, is a nerdy, queer teen who loves a book series and online roleplaying.

The story emphasizes Cass’s confidence in her identity and features messy yet significant friendships that are important to her. The reviewer recommends this book for nerdy queer teens and believes other readers would enjoy it too.

Rachel Moore

If one loves spooky rom-coms with ghosts, they’ll adore Rachel Moore’s beautifully written first book! It’s packed with interesting characters and a mysterious library full of secrets that fans of dark academic stories will love.

Her debut book, “The Library of Shadows,” is a YA paranormal romance that celebrates libraries. While some parts might feel very young adult, the author’s passion for libraries shines through. Overall, Moore shows promise with her writing style and pacing.

Vichet Chum

Written by debut Vichet Chum, the book ‘Kween’ celebrates being Cambodian, being queer, and accepting the complex stories that shape who we are. It’s story about Soma Kear, a queer Cambodian American teen, faces upheaval after her father’s deportation.

Her viral slam poetry video triggers a need for self-expression amid family challenges. As she preps for a school contest, Soma navigates her fears and embraces her identity and the quest for self-understanding.

Andrew Duplessie

The first book of Andrew Duplessie ”Too Scared To Sleep” is a spooky collection of scary short stories made for teens. These tales are not just written words—they come with creepy videos that make the scares even more intense.

Whether it’s bone-chilling horror or supernatural frights, there’s something in these stories to give anyone the shivers. But here’s the kicker: each story has a video you can watch by scanning a code with your phone. Get ready for a thrilling experience.

Mackenzie Reed

A young adult fiction writer Mackenzie Reed from Rochester, New York, wrote her thrilling debut book, “The Rosewood Hunt.” Her book, due out in 2023, is a thrilling adventure set in a small town.

It’s all about solving riddles and puzzles to find a missing inheritance. The story moves at an exciting pace, keeping you hooked with suspenseful moments and touching scenes that tug at your emotions. The characters are so well-written that they feel real, making it hard to stop reading.

Yume Kitasei

A writer from Brooklyn Yume Kitasei wrote her first novel called “The Deep Sky.” It’s an exciting science fiction thriller about a space mission that starts with a dangerous explosion, making the survivors doubt each other’s loyalty.

The novel follows Asuka, a crew member on a spaceship carrying humanity’s hope to a new planet. When a deadly explosion rocks the ship, suspicion falls on Asuka. As tensions rise, she strives to uncover the culprit before trust shatters among the crew, endangering their mission.

Mikki Brammer

The author Mikki’s debut book, “The Collected Regrets of Clover,” is making waves worldwide. It’s a touching and thoughtful novel that explores life, death, choices, and finding meaning in a limited time. It tells the story of Clover, an introverted woman linked to death.

Witnessing loss at a young age shaped her life. As a death doula, she helps people nearing the end. When she connects with Claudia, a journalist facing terminal illness, Clover’s life takes a transformative turn. The book is a touching and unique tale, exploring life’s meaning and unexpected journeys. Clover’s story is both heartfelt and inspiring, making it a memorable read.

Sarah Adler

An author named Sarah Adler writes funny love stories about quirky characters. She lives in Maryland with her family and often finds herself scolding her mischievous cat for opening kitchen cabinets too much.

Her first book, “Mrs. Nash’s Ashes,” tells the story of Millicent, who promises her friend to reunite her with her long-lost love. Carrying Mrs. Nash’s ashes, Millicent sets off on a road trip to Key West, hoping for a symbolic happy ending. Unexpectedly, she’s joined by Hollis, someone who doesn’t believe in love stories. It’s a heartwarming tale exploring love, companionship, and unexpected connections.

Ariel Aberg-Riger

The debut author of 2023 Ariel Aberg-Riger won the Kirkus Prize for her debut book “America Redux: Visual Stories from Our Dynamic History.” She’s a visual storyteller using historical images and words to create digital collages without harming the originals.

Her book has 21 chapters on different American history topics, not in chronological order. Each chapter is short, around 250 words, focusing on themes rather than dates. Topics range from American gun culture to women’s impact on democracy, showcasing diverse stories from various times and people. Ariel enjoys the challenge of telling concise yet powerful stories through visuals.

Also Read: Best Debut Authors of February 2023