1. Maisie Dobbs series, Jacqueline Winspear

My journey with the Maisie Dobbs series began in the spring of 2021, and I finally concluded it with the seventeenth book this past spring. Overall, I found myself thoroughly absorbed by most of the novels. While there was one particular installment in the middle that didn’t quite capture my interest and led to a brief hiatus from the series, my enjoyment soared, especially through the last five books. I anticipate revisiting this captivating series again in the future. Orlagh Cassidy’s narration for the audiobooks is simply superb, bringing the characters and the historical setting vividly to life. Here are my detailed thoughts on the pivotal first and concluding books in this remarkable historical mystery series:

2. Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story, Bono

As a devoted U2 fan for many years, I was immensely excited when I first heard about this book and its unique premise. Opting for the audiobook version was a deliberate choice, as I always prefer hearing memoir writers narrate their own stories – it adds an unparalleled layer of authenticity and intimacy. This particular audiobook goes a step further, featuring snippets where Bono spontaneously breaks into song, alongside special editions of U2’s iconic tracks recorded exclusively for this production. This memoir offers a deeply personal and often surprising look into the life of one of rock’s most enduring figures, revealing the man behind the music and activism.

The first half of the book captivated me the most, providing an eye-opening account of how U2 came together, their evolving faith as teenagers and adults, and the profound ways Bono believes God orchestrated much of their unprecedented success. Bono’s unwavering love and devotion to his childhood sweetheart wife were also incredibly inspiring, painting a picture of a grounded individual despite his global fame. However, the true highlight for me was delving into the genesis of their famous songs – understanding the background, the inspiration, and the creative process behind their composition and production. It’s a joyful recounting, brimming with fun insights and profound reflections on creativity and spirituality. While the second half, with its greater emphasis on Bono’s extensive humanitarian work, did slow down a bit for me personally, it remained undeniably good and essential to his complete story, showcasing his deep commitment to global issues. I am almost certain I will listen to this memoir again in the future, eager to rediscover its layers of music, faith, and personal growth.

3. All My Knotted Up Life, Beth Moore

While I was certainly aware of Beth Moore, having completed a couple of her insightful studies and even read her sole (and quite good) fiction book, my understanding of her life and ministry was somewhat limited. Her widely reported departure from the Southern Baptist Church a year or so ago certainly made headlines, but beyond that, my knowledge remained superficial. This memoir, however, served as an illuminating deep dive into her journey, offering a wealth of background details that shed light on the genesis and impact of her numerous women’s studies. It’s a powerful and deeply personal narrative that reveals much about her unwavering faith, resilience, and commitment to truth in the face of adversity.

Reading about the backlash and treatment she received after publicly sharing her honest response to then-presidential hopeful Trump’s controversial remarks on women – a response that, quite frankly, echoed the sentiments of many – was genuinely shocking. Moore bravely shares deeply personal and difficult experiences for the first time, approaching them with remarkable vulnerability and unwavering truthfulness, all while remaining authentically true to herself and her convictions. This memoir seamlessly weaves together challenging revelations, moments of unexpected humor, and truly lovely reflections, creating a profoundly impactful reading experience. It was immensely gratifying to witness how God has faithfully carried her through every trial and triumph, making this a book that resonated deeply and left a lasting impression on my spiritual understanding of faith, courage, and perseverance. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in modern Christian leadership and the journey of personal conviction.

4. Remarkably Bright Creatures, Shelby Van Pelt (My favorite book of the year!)

I absolutely adored this book – it instantly claimed the title of my favorite read of the year! For a long time, I hesitated to pick it up, despite seeing it lauded on countless other book lists, because I mistakenly believed it was primarily about a talking octopus. While it’s true that an octopus does narrate certain sections, offering his unique perspective on the human world and its peculiar inhabitants, he doesn’t actually speak to the people he encounters in a literal sense. In the initial chapters, I was quite uncertain about the direction of the story, particularly puzzled by the introduction of seemingly unrelated characters in Washington state and California. The brilliance of the narrative, however, lies in how these threads eventually converge. My advice: keep reading, it is SO worth it. Trust the process, and you will be rewarded.

The unfolding mystery of how these disparate lives would intertwine kept me utterly captivated, driving me to turn page after page. Beyond its clever plot, this is a truly lovely and profoundly heartwarming story that beautifully explores themes of friendship, found family, and the transformative power of forgiveness. The characters are rich, quirky, and deeply relatable, and their individual journeys toward connection are profoundly moving. And the ending? It was nothing short of perfection – satisfying, emotionally resonant, and perfectly tying together every narrative strand with grace and hope. Seriously, don’t walk, *run* to acquire this book, whether by purchasing it or placing a hold at your local library. It’s an unforgettable read that will stay with you long after you’ve finished the last page, reminding you of the unexpected connections that enrich life.

6. The Stand, Stephen King

My husband, Brian, and I embarked on this epic listening journey together, spanning over two months and a formidable 47 hours – quite an undertaking! After a somewhat slow beginning, which was a bit challenging to navigate due to the introduction of numerous disparate characters, the story gradually but powerfully drew us into the terrifying world Stephen King masterfully creates. The premise: a man-made “superflu” pandemic brutally decimates 99.4% of the global population, with King’s signature gruesome details, of course. It’s genuinely astounding to witness, through his narrative, just how rapidly and devastatingly such a contagion could spread across society, depicting the breakdown of civilization with chilling accuracy. The characters, initially fragmented, eventually coalesced into mostly fleshed-out individuals we found ourselves either passionately rooting for or utterly repelled by. The overarching Good-vs-Evil plot was evident from the very first pages, allowing us to anticipate the moral alignments of the characters.

We found ourselves eager to listen whenever possible – during meals, on drives, and whenever a spare moment presented itself. The book contained surprisingly comic parts, and to this day, we still use phrases like “m-o-o-n spells _____” and “happy crappy,” which always bring a laugh. While King is known for gore, and he doesn’t shy away from detailing the gruesome effects of bullets on bodies, this isn’t a horror novel in the vein of some of his other works. Instead, it’s a post-apocalyptic saga with profound ethical and spiritual dimensions. There’s a strong supernatural element, with characters sharing prophetic dreams that guide them to the same destination, but also a significant emphasis on biblical themes and God as the ultimate antidote to evil. It may not be for everyone, given its length, intense themes, and occasional violence, but I am profoundly glad I experienced it. *The Stand* truly compels you to think deeply about society, morality, and human resilience in the face of ultimate catastrophe. It’s a monumental achievement in storytelling that leaves an indelible mark.

7. Hello Beautiful, Ann Napolitano

For months, I witnessed this book being widely discussed across various social media platforms, building anticipation long before my library hold finally came through. “Hello Beautiful” is not a book to rush; rather, it’s a slow, deliberate, and exquisitely crafted narrative that unfolds a family’s complex story over many years, replete with numerous twists and turns. Some of these moments are undeniably heartbreaking, while others are so tender and sweet they will make your heart ache in the most profound way. The novel delves deeply into universal themes: how individuals cope with tragedy, the indelible ways our families mold and define us, and the unbreakable, often complicated, bonds between siblings. It’s a poignant exploration of the human condition, reminiscent of classic family sagas.

This book is often marketed as a tearjerker, and while it certainly contains sad elements, I personally didn’t find myself crying. Perhaps this was because I didn’t feel a deep, singular connection to any one character; instead, each played a vital and interwoven role in the tapestry of the story, making the collective journey more impactful and balanced. Nevertheless, the narrative and its powerful themes truly stick with you, lingering in your thoughts long after the final page. The ultimately hopeful ending was a significant factor in my appreciation, elevating the overall experience and solidifying its place on my best books of the year list. It’s a moving and memorable story that explores the depths of family love, resilience, and the enduring quest for belonging.

8. Be Frank With Me, Julia Claiborne Johnson

I approached “Be Frank With Me” without many preconceived notions, and I was utterly and pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The story introduces us to a young publisher’s assistant from New York, tasked with traveling to Bel Air to assist a reclusive author in completing a long-awaited manuscript. This author has a son named Frank, a truly unique character described as “different.” Frank is remarkably intelligent, possesses an uncommon interest in subjects far removed from his peers, and has a peculiar penchant for dressing in 1930s-style clothes. He clearly navigates the world from somewhere on the autism spectrum, struggling with nuances, fiercely protective of his belongings, and averse to physical touch. But oh, this story has so much heart!

Both Frank and his mother, Mimi – an older woman clearly overwhelmed by life’s demands – are deeply in need of the love, care, and gentle guidance that the young assistant inadvertently brings into their home. The narrative is a beautiful tapestry woven with humor, profound love, delightful chaos, and even touches of danger, including a fire and encounters with obsessive fans. Everything converges in a story where you witness each character’s significant growth, as they learn to understand, accept, and cherish one another for exactly who they are. If you’ve read my book reviews before, you’ll know I greatly appreciate a satisfying (and ideally happy, lol) ending. While this one felt a touch abrupt and left me slightly hanging, that was almost the only minor quibble I had with this otherwise wonderfully sweet and moving book. It’s a testament to the power of connection, understanding, and the beauty of unconventional family bonds, making it a truly heartwarming and memorable read.

9. Open, Andre Agassi

I was genuinely surprised by how much I enjoyed Andre Agassi’s memoir, “Open,” and it’s a book that has truly stayed with me since I finished reading it. While it’s not a new release, having come out in 2009 a few years after his retirement from professional tennis, the enduring relevance of his story is striking. Thankfully, Agassi remains in a similar, admirable place as depicted at the book’s conclusion: happily married to Steffi Graf, a devoted father to their two (now older, of course) children, and still passionately committed to running his charter school for disadvantaged youth. This memoir offers an unflinchingly honest look at a life lived in the spotlight, revealing the inner struggles and triumphs of a tennis icon.

What I found most captivating were his candid descriptions of his relentless training regimen, which essentially began as soon as he could walk, providing incredible insight into the world of elite athletics. His accounts of life on the professional tennis tour and the specific details he shares about some of his most iconic matches were enthralling, giving readers a true insider’s perspective. However, it was the behind-the-scenes anecdotes and personal revelations that truly stuck with me – particularly the immense physical and mental demands athletes place on their bodies and the extraordinary measures they undertake to sustain their careers. It’s a stark reminder of the sacrifices required for greatness and the often hidden toll of relentless competition. While I wished Agassi himself had narrated the audiobook to add another layer of intimacy, I deeply appreciate the raw candor and profound life lessons he imparted through his writing. “Open” is more than just a sports memoir; it’s a powerful story of identity, struggle, and the pursuit of purpose beyond the game, making it a compelling read for sports fans and non-fans alike.

10. Double Cross, True Story of the D-Day Spies, Ben Macintyre

My husband, Brian, and I listened to “Double Cross” together, and it’s a book so astonishingly good, so imbued with the notion that “truth is stranger than fiction,” that its inclusion on my year-end best books list is no surprise whatsoever! Many times throughout our listening, we found ourselves simply looking at each other, mouths agape, unable to believe what we had just heard. Imagine: a number of these real-life spies genuinely embodied the charm and daring of James Bond, romancing their targets and spending lavish amounts of money – much of which, incredibly, they managed to extract directly from the Germans they were double-crossing! The sheer audacity and ingenuity of these operations, vital to the success of D-Day, are truly breathtaking and read like the most thrilling fiction.

I mean, it truly makes you wonder if Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, didn’t base some of his iconic characters on these very individuals. Perhaps he even knew some of them during his own work in British naval intelligence during WWII – a thought that frequently crossed my mind while listening, though it wasn’t explicitly speculated in the book! The level of deception, bravery, and sheer theatricality involved in deceiving Nazi Germany about the exact timing and location of the D-Day landings is simply amazing. Macintyre’s masterful storytelling brings these historical figures and their incredible feats to vivid life, making this a non-fiction account that reads with the thrilling pace of a spy novel. It’s an essential read for anyone fascinated by World War II, espionage, or the remarkable capabilities of the human mind under pressure and the incredible courage displayed. A truly unforgettable deep dive into a pivotal moment in history, filled with unbelievable true stories.

11. A Time for Confidence, Stephen J Nichols

Originally published in 2017, the themes and encouragement within Stephen J. Nichols’ “A Time for Confidence” have only gained greater relevance and urgency in the years since, especially with the accelerating pace of societal changes and increasing global uncertainties we’ve witnessed. The author passionately reminds us that amidst a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, we can always, unequivocally, place our trust and belief in God’s unchanging promises. This book provided a profound sense of spiritual encouragement and empowerment for me, offering a much-needed anchor in tumultuous times.

It served as a powerful reminder of God’s unshakable nature, His steadfastness even when the world around us appears to be crumbling or shifting beneath our feet. In an era marked by shifting values, cultural unrest, and increasing anxiety, Nichols’ message offers a reassuring anchor, inviting readers to find stability and peace in their faith. It’s a compelling call to stand firm, reminding us that confidence in divine promises is not naive but a source of true strength, hope, and unwavering peace. This book is a timely and impactful read for anyone seeking spiritual grounding, a renewed sense of purpose, and an unshakable confidence in challenging times, reinforcing the enduring power of faith.

12. The Museum of Ordinary People, Mike Gayle

I thoroughly enjoyed this delightfully quirky book – so much so that it confidently earned a spot on my best of the year list! It perfectly met my personal “best book” criteria, excelling in three key areas: 1) It’s a story I couldn’t stop thinking about, prompting deep reflection on profound questions like: Where do the cherished items and memories go when a loved one is gone? Where *should* they go? And what truly holds lasting importance in our lives beyond material possessions? 2) It tells an exceptionally good story, with a narrative flow that is both engaging and thought-provoking, weaving multiple perspectives seamlessly. 3) It made me passionately root for the characters to overcome their struggles and ultimately succeed in their quest for healing and connection. This combination of emotional depth, compelling storytelling, and relatable characters made for an unforgettable reading experience.

While the book does feature a unique “museum” compiled from people’s cast-off items, each imbued with significant meaning for their families and former owners, at its heart, this is a deeply moving story about a woman who has lost her way after the profound grief of her mother’s death. Through the evolving idea and eventual realization of this very special museum, which collects the seemingly ordinary objects that hold extraordinary personal histories, we witness her slow but determined journey back to herself, rediscovering her purpose and healing old wounds. Mike Gayle masterfully crafts a narrative that is both poignant and hopeful, reminding us of the hidden stories within everyday objects and the enduring power of connection across generations. It’s a beautiful meditation on memory, loss, and the quiet resilience of the human spirit, advocating for the preservation of personal legacies.

So there you have it – my top 12 most impactful and cherished books read in 2023. Each one offered something unique, sparking joy, reflection, or sheer entertainment throughout my year and leaving a lasting impression. I hope this curated list provides you with some wonderful new reading ideas to explore.

As a friendly reminder, you can always find comprehensive reviews of every single book I read each month within my “Good Things Lists,” which also feature a selection of other delightful discoveries and activities I’m currently enjoying and recommending.

I’d love to hear from you! Did any of these magnificent books make your own “best of” lists for 2023? Do you have any incredible books you loved that you believe I should absolutely add to my ever-growing reading list? Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below! Your insights are always valued.