My top reads of 2023
My Top Reads of 2023
I usually make a top ten list of my most favorite brilliant books of the year, but I’m sad to report that too few of the books I’ve read this year could be classed as brilliant. So, here’s my top 5. I hope you find something you like amongst them.
1. The Book of Doors - Gareth Brown
Plot Summary
Due for publication in February, The Book of Doors is a fantasy novel featuring Cassie, a bookshop worker in New York City. Grieving the loss of her grandfather and lacking a vibrant social life, Cassie finds solace in a friendship with an elderly customer who unexpectedly leaves her a mysterious book called “The Book of Doors.” This book possesses magical abilities, allowing the holder to open doors to any location imaginable. As Cassie explores this newfound power with her roommate Izzy, what initially seems like a dream come true quickly spirals into a dangerous adventure.
Overall Thoughts and Feelings
The Book of Doors is a fabulous read for booklovers who enjoy imaginative fantasy novels with engaging characters.
Writing Style, Character Development, and Themes
Brown’s writing style is imaginative and engaging, creating a compelling narrative that’s easy to follow despite its complexity. Cassie is a relatable protagonist, and her relationship with the gregarious Izzy provides a nice contrast. The book explores themes of grief, friendship, and the allure and danger of escaping reality.
Pacing and Structure
The story is a roller coaster ride, packed with action and intrigue. It maintains a good pace, firing on all cylinders without becoming overwhelming. The ending ties up nicely, but leaves room for a sequel or series.
Language and Imagery
The author creates a vivid and magical world.
Emotional Impact
The book is an escape from the everyday, with moments of violence and sorrow balanced by lighter elements.
Themes and Messages
The novel seems to explore the consequences of escapism and the importance of facing one’s problems rather than running from them.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The book’s strength lies in its imaginative concept and engaging characters. A potential weakness might be the predictability of some plot elements within the fantasy genre.
Recommendations
I would recommend The Book of Doors to readers who enjoy fantasy novels, especially those with a touch of magic and adventure. I can’t wait for the sequel!
Rating
5/5 stars
Overall Impression
A perfect escape from reality.
Where to Get It
My Ebook may have relevant links closer to the publication date.
2. The Wall - John Lanchester
Plot Summary
The Wall is a dystopian novel set in a future where a climate disaster has forced an island nation, resembling the UK, to build a wall around its coastline to keep out immigrants. The story follows a defender of the wall.
Overall Thoughts and Feelings
Thoroughly enjoyed this book and I hope there is a sequel at some point as it ended at a point where I’m itching to know more! It’s gripping and page turning and I highly recommend it.
Rating
4/5 stars
Overall Impression
A thought-provoking and unsettling vision of the future.
Where to Get It
3. October in the Earth - Olivia Hawker
Plot Summary
Set in depression era USA, we rode the freight rails with a pair of female hobos I fell in love with. Del leaves her cheating hell fire preacher husband and takes to the rails where she meets up with experienced hobo Luoisa who is travelling to earn money wherever she can to send back home to feed and keep her beloved son.
Overall Thoughts and Feelings
Wonderful storytelling. Heartbreaking and easy to read.
Writing Style, Character Development, and Themes
About women’s oppression and bonds of loyalty, friendship, love and self discovery.
Rating
5/5 stars
Overall Impression
Just perfect reading.
Where to Get It
4. Lucky Red - Claudia Cravens
Plot Summary
Lucky Red tells the story of Bridget, a young red-haired orphan in the American West. After her father’s death leaves her homeless, she journeys to Dodge and finds work at the Queen, a female-owned brothel. There, she finds friendship and acceptance. However, Bridget makes some poor choices, threatening the lives of the girls at the Queen.
Overall Thoughts and Feelings
WOW!! What a fantastic, fabulous book. Undoubtedly one of my top reads of 2023. So much more than I hoped for.
Writing Style, Character Development, and Themes
Beautifully written, the story flows like the wind on the prairie from page one. The novel is undoubtedly a feminist take on the traditional Western.
Emotional Impact
Brimful of wonderful, complex, often flawed characters. Choc a block with action and passion. It never felt exaggerated or over the top, and I LOVED every god darn minute of it
Recommendations
I really hope the author does the decent thing and writes a follow up.
Rating
5/5 stars
Overall Impression
Atmospheric and believable.
Where to Get It
5. In the Lives of Puppets - T.J. Klune
Plot Summary
The book features adorable characters on a wondrous quest. It sounds pretty bonkers but it’s … just. blooming. fabulous. Description compares it to Pinocchio, and indeed it features quotes from Pinocchio at each chapter. The protagonist is called Victor.
Overall Thoughts and Feelings
Ohhhh, WOW.
Writing Style, Character Development, and Themes
I would draw a strong parallel with The Wizard of Oz and Frankenstein.
Rating
5/5 stars
Overall Impression
I loved it. Especially nurse Ratched.