My Top 5 Books of 2023

One of the ways I teach myself to become a better writer is by reading voraciously. The last three years, I have read an average of one novel per week, or 52 books per year. Although not every title I read in a year is necessarily released in that same year, I also have a three-year streak of naming my top favorite books of the year, which I did in both 2022 and 2021.

I didn’t have time this year to elaborate in this post with more detailed reviews, as I’ve done in the past. But you can navigate over to my Goodreads page to read my reviews—not only of these books but everything else I’ve read in 2023. (While you’re there, be sure to follow my page.)

Here is my list:

Wellness by Nathan Hill

I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai

Yellowface by R.F. Kuang

The Bee Sting by Paul Murray

All the Sinners Bleed by S.A. Cosby

One of the questions I am frequently asked is which writers and novels inspire me. This list is a good start. Already have some front-runners for 2024.