Arts & Events

Happy holidays! Here are my choices for 2023’s best novels. (In alphabetical order.) Bear in mind that, as a mystery writer, I typically read mysteries and thrillers. 

Hang the Moon Jeanette Walls 

A coming-of-age novel set in depression-era Virginia. A terrific story with a strong female protagonist. 

Even though Sallie Kincaid is only seventeen years old, she has the gumption required to take over her father’s business. A substantial task since her father, Duke Kincaid, runs everything in their rural town, particularly the moonshine business. Like a steeplechase champion, Sallie conquers one hurdle after another. Being a tough female boss in a world run by men. Delivering moonshine while pursued by federal agents. Dealing with her family’s twisted history. Even finding true love. 

Romantic Comedy Curtis Sittenfeld 

A heartfelt and funny novel full of Sittenfeld’s astute observations on the human condition. 

My aim is to write mysteries with a substantial romance component. So, I read contemporary romance novels, most of which are disappointing. A notable exception was “Romantic Comedy.” 

Sally Milz is a successful comedy sketch writer – on a TV program like Saturday Night Live. Divorced, in her late thirties, she’s convinced love has passed her by. Then Sally meets Noah Brewster, an aging pop star hosting that week’s show. Noah likes her but Sally can’t let herself believe it. Then the Coronavirus lockdown intervenes. Sally and Noah begin communicating. She decides to drive to LA and join his “bubble.” 

Small Mercies Dennis Lehane  

A mystery novel set in 1974 Boston. Proof that, in the hands of a skilled writer, a mystery novel can be great literature. 

In a time of racial tension, a black man, Auggie Williamson, is killed and a white teenager, Jules Fennessy, disappears. Her mother, Mary Pat, sets out to find what happened to Jules and runs afoul of the Irish mob.  

In 2001, Dennis Lehane wrote the classic “Mystic River.” 2023’s “Small Mercies” is a reminder that Lehane remains one of America’s finest writers. His characterization of Mary Pat Fennessy is spot on, as is his description of her hard-scrabble Boston neighborhood. Lehane is not afraid to take on difficult subjects such as racial animosity and drug addiction. He writes with skill and compassion. 

Thanks for your support of my new mystery novel. 

If you would like to read my book reviews, check out my FACEBOOK page https://www.facebook.com/KateSwift.mysteries 

Seasons’ Greetings!