May 2023 Reading Wrap-Up
May has come and gone, leaving California grey and gloomy. But I didn’t let the gloomy weather rain on my bookish parade. In fact, I finished sixteen books this month, a new personal record. Sadly, they weren’t all 5⭐️ books, but a few were worth shouting from the rooftops about. Find out which books you should buy, borrow, or pass in my May 2023 reading wrap-up.
This blog is reader-supported. I earn a small commission from affiliate links in this post when you click on the link (at no cost to you). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, visit my legal page.
To Die Beautiful
The most action-packed WWII resistance novel I’ve read since Angels of the Resistance.
Buy
London Seance Society
Better than her last, but still not a must-read. If you enjoyed The Witches of New York you’ll enjoy this one.
Borrow
All the Pretty Places
A feminist novel that blends fighting the patriarchy with fighting forbidden feelings.
Borrow
The House is on Fire
This disaster novel feels more like a character story with all the action in the first quarter of the novel.
Borrow
Two Wars & a Wedding
This one was tough for me, but if you enjoy a richly detailed story about a woman in trouble, you might enjoy it.
Borrow
In the Lives of Puppets
In true Klune fashion, the reader is left marveling at the quiet force of his work. Nothing and everything like The House in the Cerulean Sea.
Buy
The Secret Book of Flora Lea
A marvel of magic, fairytales, and undying belief: this WWII book is unlike any you’ve read.
Buy
Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?
Debuts like this deserve attention! Get lost in 1950s Hollywood glitz and glamour with this BIPOC historical fiction.
Borrow
Queen of Thieves
Raucous good fun that seems tailor-made for the audiobook format.
Borrow
Jacqueline in Paris
Character study meets dreamlike Paris setting makes for a good glimpse at Jackie before Jack.
Borrow
The Daydreams
The heyday of Perez Hilton all over again, join in the backstabbing fun as a 00s sitcom cast reunites.
Borrow
The Celebrants
Probably my favorite book of the year, this marvel of life, death, joy, and grief is profound, witty, and like a warm hug you didn’t know you needed.
Buy
The Castle Keepers
A unique book concept that marries three different storylines around one central character: a British manor house.
Borrow
Only the Beautiful
The most beautiful blend of social commentary and WWII fiction, this book is a must-read.
Buy
Meet Me at the Lake
Definitely not the sophomore novel we were all wanting, but it’s still worth a read if you don’t mind suspending disbelief.
Borrow
Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl
Lovers of women-in-the-workforce fiction will love this new book from the author of the great Park Avenue Summer.
Buy
Before You Go
If you enjoyed this post, then be sure to sign up for my email newsletter where I share updates about the latest reading wrap-ups and blog posts, must-see book deals, and my What This Week series! If email isn’t your thing, head to Bookstagram to follow along for all the bookish fun!
