Best and Worst Reads of 2023

[Rusalka, Moderator]

Ah. I had no expectations but my BIL has been telling me to read him for a while. And I needed to read this book in the middle of a Toppler and for the annual challenge, so I was motivated.

I thought it was so beautifully written though, but a bit dark. But that is the nature of the subject matter unfortunately.

[Margo]

Yeah, he's always dark. I like dark! It was probably a case right book, wrong time ;-)

[Rusalka, Moderator]

That is good to know from my side! I quite like dark too, but sometimes it's just not the thing. Sounds like you may have been in one of those moments. I hope you pick it up again and love it. If not, just curse my name as you throw the book ;)

[Margo]

Rusalka wrote: "That is good to know from my side! I quite like dark too, but sometimes it's just not the thing. Sounds like you may have been in one of those moments. I hope you pick it up again and love it. If n..."

Not a good idea. As it's audio I'd have to throw my phone and that could be expensive LOL

[Janice, Moderator]

Rusalka wrote: "Okay okay okay, I have finished my readings and reviews for the year. Ready to play!

Best
Home Fire - first read of 2023 and I have not stopped thinking about it since. Have gone a..."

Home fire would be a great book for someone to tackle as task one in this year's challenge.

We'll have to disagree about Old God's Time. It was lyrical, but it isn't my favourite style of writing.

We used to have a wine here called "Fanny Hill Cherry Splash"

[Janice, Moderator]

I liked Sebastion Barry's The Secret Scripture.

[Margo]

My favourites are The Temporary Gentleman and On Canaan's Side. They are both part of bigger series set in Ireland during the civil war but can be read as standalones. Very dark reading but tender and beautiful.

[Rusalka, Moderator]

So many things to add! Thanks you two!

Sorry you didn't enjoy it as much, Janice.
Good point on Home Fire, perfect for the first task.
And anything I write about the wine sounds very dirty so. Acknowledged.

[Cherie]

I agree with Roz. Horse was terrific.
Sea of Tranquility was only 3 stars for me.

I also loved Martha Wells' Murderbot series All Systems Red. He cracks me up!