It is hard to believe that when I started my bookstagram account in 2020, I did not read romance. I had never opened a romance novel as an adult. Seeing others’ joy and excitement for reading romantic stories eventually pushed me to give it a try.
As I mentioned in my “2023 Reading in Review” post, I read more romance this year than any previous. I have found solace and comfort in reading these stories that always end with a happily ever after. Although I mention the endings, make no mistake – these five titles bring a lot more to the table than just a romantic entanglement.
Scroll down to read about each of my 2023 favorites (in order starting with the best).
You, Again
Kate Goldbeck
A commitment-phobe and a hopeless romantic clash over and over again—until heartbreak and unexpected chemistry bring them together in this enemies-to-friends-to-lovers debut romance.
Second Chances in New Port Stephen
T.J. Alexander
If someone asked me for a book that epitomizes a thriller, I would hand them this book. Drowning is an intense read packed full of excitement and action. Drowning surprised me for what it offered beyond suspense and adrenaline. Reading this book was a rollercoaster of emotion.
Full Review | Amazon | Bookshop.org
Hello Stranger
Katherine Center
The glorious novel from the beloved author whose bright, hopelessly romantic New York Times bestsellers about a painter who develops face blindness on the eve of the North American Portrait Society competition and falls for both her beloved dog Peanut’s handsome vet and her annoyingly endearing neighbor.
Full Review | Amazon | Bookshop.org
Business or Pleasure
Rachel Lynn Solomon
A ghostwriter and a struggling actor help each other on the page and in the bedroom in this steamy romantic comedy from the New York Times bestselling author of The Ex Talk.
Book Lovers
Emily Henry
A by-the-book literary agent must decide if happily ever after is worth changing her whole life for in this insightful, delightful novel.
