Check out our top-selling fiction books this year.
2023 has been full of fabulous books for fiction fans.
From heartwarming romantic comedies to spine-chilling thrillers, the bestsellers of 2023 covered a range of genres and themes. No matter the book, however, all of these had engaging plots and unforgettable characters, and won the hearts of readers across Australia and beyond.
Keep scrolling to see what this year’s bestsellers were. How many have you read?
The 10 bestselling fiction books of 2023
Lessons in Chemistry Bonnie Garmus
It comes as little surprise to see Lessons in Chemistry take the top spot this year. Though the book was first published in 2022, the Apple TV+ adaptation introduced even more readers to the beloved protagonist, Elizabeth Zott. A little bit of science, a heart-wrenching love story and a powerful female protagonist. What more could you ask for? Learn more about the book here and take this quiz written by author Bonnie Garmus to discover which element you're most like.
The Last Devil To Die Richard Osman
The hype around Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club series is only getting stronger. Ranking as the second-bestselling book of the year is the latest book in the series: The Last Devil to Die. Author Richard Osman even came all the way to Australia from the UK, and it’s clear that Australia is enamoured. In this new instalment, the book follows the same beloved characters as they uncover a new mystery. With murder, drug dealers and heartache for the club to navigate, it will grab you from the very first page. Watch the author talk about the book in this video, and relive the magic of his Australian tour here.
The Secret Lee Child, Andrew Child
It’s no secret that The Secret was a popular pick this year. Book #28 in Lee and Andrew Child’s Jack Reacher series, the book follows the iconic character in a new pulse-pounding adventure. Stephen King has called Reacher ‘the coolest continuing series character’ and he doesn’t disappoint in this book. As he races to identify a cold-blooded killer, Reacher will uncover a secret that stretches back twenty-three years. Start reading the book here, and take this fun quiz to test just how well you know this enigma of a man.
Happy Place Emily Henry
Romance readers will be happy to hear that Happy Place was one of the top sellers of 2023. Written by TikTok sensation Emily Henry, the book contains everything her readers love most: romance, realistic characters, and an impossible conundrum. Learn more about the book here or read a snippet.
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow Gabrielle Zevin
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow is one of those rare books that attracts readers from all walks (and preferred genres). From Jimmy Fallon to John Green, it seems like everyone was talking about this title in 2023. On the surface, it’s a book about video game developers, but dig a bit deeper and you'll see that it’s about the essential things that make for a rich life: passion, love, friendship and so much more. Start reading it here or pitch it to your book club as your next pick (Psst . . . these book club notes will help you make your case!)
I Will Find You Harlan Coben
Harlan Coben is the #1 author and creator of the Netflix series Stay Close, so it’s no surprise that his latest book, I Will Find You, is a page-turner. Following one family and a mysterious tragedy that strikes them, this thriller will keep you guessing until the end. Start reading here or check out Coben’s (many) other addictive thrillers.
Daisy Jones and The Six Taylor Jenkins Reid
Daisy Jones and the Six also got the TV treatment this year, bringing this 2019 book back to the forefront of readers' minds in 2023. Tracing a fictitious band’s rise and fall, the book is written as a transcript, as different band members are interviewed about their experiences. This one makes a wonderful book club read and is a joy to listen to on audiobook, as several voice actors take on the characters’ words for an unparalleled listening experience.
Black Sheep Judy Nunn
This sweeping historical fiction by Australian author Judy Nunn follows sheep shearer James Wakefield, who is running from the law. When he befriends Ben, the heir to the Glenfinnan sheep property, the two men become the keepers of each others’ secrets. But when Ben insists that James comes to work at the station, is he unwittingly adopting a Black Sheep into his family’s dynasty? Start reading the book here, or check out book club questions for your next meet-up.
The Sugar Palace Fiona McIntosh
Australian author Fiona McIntosh’s latest novel, The Sugar Palace, is a sweet read set in 1920s Sydney. While working at her parent’s grocery store in The Rocks, Grace dreams of one day opening her own sweet business. When a roguish Londoner, Alfie, encourages her ambitions, love might blind her to his less-than-savoury tactics of raising capital. Watch a trailer and check out book club notes to read it in a group.
Someone Else's Shoes Jojo Moyes
From international bestselling author Jojo Moyes comes this fun, funny and uplifting story. When Nisha and Sam accidentally swap bags in a gym locker room, each woman ends up in a far different situation than she’s used to. While Nisha’s marriage falls apart around her, Sam’s new eye-catching shoes are giving her a confidence she never knew she could possess. Equally humorous and inspiring, this is a great read for fans of Moyes and newcomers to her work. Start reading an extract here and be prepared to get sucked in!
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