A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies... The man who never reads lives only one. - George R.R. Martin

Transporting myself to different eras and immersing myself in the past has always been an irresistible allure for my literary senses. Within the realm of literature, historical fiction stands as a bridge between worlds, offering a unique fusion of imaginative storytelling and the rich backdrop of bygone times. In this journey through the corridors of time, I often find myself spellbound by the authors who masterfully weave history into their narratives. Today I am sharing my favorite reads of 2023 — and yes, we still have four months left in the year. However, I have recently become enthralled with a new series (stay tuned) and don’t foresee picking up any books aside from the next one or two in that series for the rest of 2023.

The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin

This novel whisked me away to the glittering world of 1950s New York City, where glamour and ambition intertwine in a mesmerizing dance. This historical fiction gem delves into the captivating friendship between Truman Capote and his coterie of high-society confidantes, aptly named "the swans." The pages paint a vivid portrait of the era's opulence while delving into the intimate lives of these extraordinary women, such as Babe Paley and Slim Keith. Through the lens of their complex relationships, the novel delves into the cost of fame, the allure of secrets, and the fragility of loyalty.

The Night Portrait by Laura Morelli

The Night Portrait unveils a mesmerizing and poignant narrative that seamlessly bridges the past and the present. Set against the backdrop of Italy during World War II, this novel intricately weaves the lives of two remarkable women: an enigmatic Italian portrait artist and a determined American soldier tasked with recovering art stolen by the Nazis. As the characters navigate the tumultuous waters of war and personal upheaval, the intricate connections they share with a portrait by Leonardo da Vinci become a symbol of hope and resilience.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Oscar Wilde once famously said “If one cannot enjoy reading a book over and over again, there is no use in reading it at all.” For me, one of those books is Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Though published over two centuries ago, this beloved masterpiece continues to capture my heart with its eloquent portrayal of Regency-era England. The wit and charm with which Austen crafts her characters, particularly the headstrong Elizabeth Bennet and the enigmatic Mr. Darcy, breathes life into a society governed by propriety and reputation. I revisited this classic in 2023 for perhaps the fourth or fifth time since I first picked it up as a teenager, and its enduring relevance, irresistible allure of romance, and focus on social etiquette, norms, and propriety remind me why this classis remains a literary delight.

The Outlander Series by Diana Gabaldon

The Outlander book series, crafted by the brilliant Diana Gabaldon, stands as a testament to the irresistible allure of historical fiction with a touch of fantasy. Set against the rich tapestry of 18th-century Scotland and beyond, this epic saga follows the extraordinary journey of Claire Randall, a time-traveling nurse from the 1940s, and Jamie Fraser, a gallant Highlander living in the 1700s. Gabaldon's meticulous research and vivid prose immerse readers in a world of political upheaval, romance, and intricate plots. This series seamlessly blends historical accuracy with elements of adventure and time travel. I am currently on book 4 and have hardly been able to set my Kindle down since I picked up the first book.

If you’re looking for an amazing photographer in Northern Virginia, look no further than Savana Ashley Photography. She captured the stunning photos on this post. She is currently offering my readers 10% off of your session using the code huntcountrychic10!