Mid-Year Book Freak Out - 2023

I am a little late to the game, but I have posted this for several years and really enjoy reading everyone else's mid-year check-ins as well. This is always hard for me, but I will make an honest attempt here. 

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First and foremost, let's see how many books I have read so far this year. Though my reading is down, as I am not listening to as many audiobooks, I am still on track for the 250 I always hope to read each year. 

2023 Reading Challenge

Samantha (WLABB) has read 181 books toward her goal of 250 books.

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181 of 250 (72%)

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I am chugging along with my other reading challenges. I did miss one prompt. What can I say, I just don't read books like Bridgerton. I hate forcing myself to read books I am not really into for a challenge. That's just who I am. 

I think my biggest blogging drama this year was moving back to Blogger. I had to throw up the white flag with my self-hosted site. It was more trouble than it was worth, and I have to say, it's been smooth sailing since I switched back. No regrets, other than losing two years of posts. 

I have been sticking to my guns with my reading goals. Reading more books from the library, my shelf, and KU than ARCs. And, I cannot complain about the quality of my reading. I have rated 32 books 5-stars which is about 18% of the books I read. Not terrible at all. 

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Best Book

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

How do people pick a favorite? I recently finished this book, and I have to say, it made a huge impression on me. I think that's why I am picking The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. 

Best Sequel

Change of Plans by Dylan Newton

I do not read many series, but I love companions. I stumbled upon the first book in this series at the library and instantly fell in love with these brothers. The final book was such a warm, wonderful, and feel-good story. Hands down, my favorite of the three. 

New Release I Want to Read

The Museum of Ordinary People by Mike Gayle

I think everyone is familiar with my love of grief books. That aspect definitely drew me to this story, and I am excited to learn more about this museum of ordinary people. 

Most Anticipated Release - Second Half of 2023

The Connellys of County Down by Tracey Lange

We Are the Brennans was such a surprise hit for me. Another book I found when scanning my eLibrary. It was such a hit for me, I recommended it to various family and friends, all who adored it. Obviously, I am chomping at the bit for more from Lange. 

Biggest Surprise

Oona Out of Order by Margarita Montimore

I had seen this one around and it was sitting on my TBR for quite a while. I think it was Ali's review that gave me that nudge to finally put the library hold in. I have read many time travel books, but there was something special about the way Montimore used this plot device and structured her novel that made such an impact on me. A really memorable experience. 

Favorite Debut Author

Mikki Brammer

The Collected Regrets of Clover was simply an amazing book. The subject matter, Clover's personal journey, the people in her life -- all these elements added up to something wonderful. This story was everything I want a book to be - touching and uplifting. I am looking forward to reading more from Brammer. 

Favorite New-to-Me Author

Heather Webber

I had exhausted Sarah Addison Allen's catalog and looking for some more "magical" books to read. I was so glad I found Webber because her books have delightful enchanted elements and always include friendship, family, and wonderful small towns. The standout elements are similar to those of Allen which is probably why her books have been such hits for me. 

• South of the Buttonwood Tree
• At the Coffee Shop of Curiosities
• Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe

New Favorite Character

Vera Wong from Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murders by Jesse Q. Sutanto

Sutanto has a knack for writing quirky and endearing characters, but Vera Wong is my favorite by far. She was far from subtle, but she did everything with the best intentions and with lots of love in her heart. She was honest and feisty, and to paraphrase, nobody puts Vera in a corner. She worked her way into my heart, and just hearing her name brings a smile to my face. 

Made Me Cry

On Fire Island by Jane L. Rosen

How could I not cry? This is a book about a young woman who dies from cancer and is getting one last summer, as a ghost, on Fire Island. She is given the opportunity to observe how her loved ones are coping with her death, but she also gets to see what an impression she made on their lives. A beautiful and that pulled at my heartstrings. 

Made Me Happy

Happy Place by Emily Henry

The word "happy" may be part of the title, but this book started with a cloud of sadness over it.  I wouldn't say I felt happy throughout this story, but I felt I was rewarded in a big way. Sitting here, thinking about this book, I am wearing a stupid grin on my face. 

Need to Read by End of 2023

The Roommate Pact by Allison Ashley

Ashley won me as a fan with Would You Rather last year, and I know I want more of that type of story. I have high hopes for this book, but feel confident that Ashley will deliver. 

 

What is the best book you have read this year?
Let us know in the comments!