Before I can list my favorite books of 2023 (next week’s post!), I have to post about my favorite books read in October – December. I had three great months of reading, my favorite reading from the entire year with a total of 54 books read! There is just something about the fall weather, whether it’s snuggling under a fuzzy blanket in front of a roaring fireplace or sitting by the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree, that makes this season’s reading extra special.
In these last three months, I had some great seasonal reads and excellent books about a fascinating first lady for my Booking It Through History: First Ladies project. I also loved my “L.M. Montgomery in October” reading for the fourth year in a row! I always take a look at my most anticipated reads of the year and try to squeeze in some that I haven’t read yet into December – and thank goodness I did because some ended up being favorites!
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Favorite Historical Fiction
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Beautiful story about being a woman and mother in the dangerous years after the American Revolution. Five stars! Read my review here.
Only the Beautiful by Susan Meissner
Meissner is one of my top favorite historical fiction authors for a reason. She has written another heartbreaking yet hopeful book. Read my review here.
The General and Julia by Jon Clinch
A lyrical book written about one of my favorite presidents, this book is a top read of the year for me. Read my review here.
Bitter Passage by Elizabeth Buechner Morris
I stumbled across this book while looking for a book set during Zachary Taylor’s presidency. I am still thinking about this sad story about a mother’s hard journey west during the California Gold Rush.
Favorite WWII Historical Fiction
The Secret Book of Flora Lea by Patti Callahan Henry
I loved this story about the unbreakable bond between siblings torn apart by a fateful day in the English countryside during WWII. Read my review here.
Beyond that, the Sea by Laura Spence-Ash
An emotional story about a young girl sent overseas to America from England during WWII, this book is a stunning debut.
The Porcelain Maker by Sarah Freethy
Another stellar debut, this novel about the horrors of the Holocaust is set in a porcelain factory in Dachau. It’s emotional and sobering, especially how the insidious hatred spreads. Read my review here.
Favorite Historical Mystery
Veil of Doubt by Sharon Virts
This historical murder mystery about a mother accused of killing her family was gripping and intense! Read my review here.
Favorite First Lady Books
And They Called It Camelot: A Novel of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis by Stephanie Marie Thornton
A detailed fictional look at the life of one of our most famous first ladies. Read my review here.
Lady First: The World of First Lady Sarah Polk by Amy S. Greenberg
I loved this nonfiction book that read like fiction! Sarah Polk is one of the most interesting yet least known first ladies. Read my review here.
The First Lady of World War II: Eleanor Roosevelt’s Daring Journey to the Frontlines and Back by Shannon McKenna Schmidt
There is so much history in this nonfiction book about Eleanor Roosevelt’s amazing trip over thousands of miles to visit America’s troops in the South Pacific. You have to read it to believe it!
Favorite History Nonfiction
Presidential Grave Hunter: One Kid’s Quest to Visit the Tombs of Every President and Vice President by Kurt Deion
I loved every minute of Kurt’s quest and am using his book as a travel guide to help me with my quest to visit every presidential and first lady historical site! Read my review here.
Favorite L.M. Montgomery Books
Jane of Lantern Hill by L.M. Montgomery
One of Montgomery’s most whimsical characters (and that’s saying a lot!), Jane’s desire to bring her parents back together is endearing and sweet. Read my review here.
Maud: A Novel Inspired by the Life of L.M. Montgomery by Melanie J. Fishbane
Reading this YA book that is the fictionalized tale of Montgomery’s life as an unwanted teen sent to live with her father and new family in Saskatchewan will make you empathize even more with her escape into the lovely worlds she created in her books. Read my review here.
Favorite Contemporary Book
Maybe Next Time by Cesca Major
This book has stuck with me over the months and made me look at life differently. It’s a must-read for women in the midst of middle marriage and parenthood. Read my review here.
Favorite Seasonal Read
Holiday Romance by Catherine Walsh
I adored this cute Christmas-themed romance along with its sequel. Just the perfect cozy reads set in Ireland!
Those are my favorite books read in October – December. Now I need to whittle down my list to my top favorites of 2023 – coming next week! What was your favorite book read in the last three months of 2023?
