All of the finalists on the 2023 Southern Book Prize Ballot have been reviewed by booksellers on The Southern Bookseller Review. Here is what they have to say about the Fiction finalists:

The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb
There are so many captivating things about this novel. It's a beautiful story about a boy who loved his grandmother and who persevered to become a classical violinist and prove to everyone that he could do it. --Mary Patterson from The Little Bookshop in Midlothian, Virginia

Book Lovers by Emily Henry
It’s a “we think we’re enemies” but are actually idiots-to-lovers who perfectly fit each other kind of story. Henry is the unquestioned queen of banter, but this is probably her wittiest, most laugh-out-loud funny book to date. --Cristina Russell from Books & Books in Coral Gables,

A Mirror Mended by Alix E. Harrow
I was enthralled with the impeccable voice of Zinnia in the follow-up to A Spindle Splintered. Harrow's incredible knowledge of fairy tales really shines through. --Amber Brown from Quail Ridge Books in Raleigh, NC

If I Survive You by Jonathan Escoffery
An American immigration story full of hope, heartbreak, promises broken, and most importantly the constant struggle. Told in interconnected stories, If I Survive You addresses class, race, and economic disparity but is also funny. Mark my words, Escoffery is a rising literary star. --Rachel Watkins, Avid Bookshop in Athens, Georgia

Lark Ascending by Silas House
Set in a near future that seems to be closer and closer to becoming a reality, Lark Ascending follows Lark as he survives ordeal after ordeal. As harrowing as Lark’s story is, Silas House manages to imbue it with humanity and hope. This is a story that will stick with you for a long time.  ―Chelsea Bauer from Union Ave Books in Knoxville, Tennesse

Now Is Not the Time to Panic by Kevin Wilson
Now is Not The Time to Panic covers that wry space between childhood and adulthood – how we want to be seen and how others see us...The writing is amazing. Sentences that stop you in your tracks. --Susan Williams, M. Judson Booksellers in Greenville, South Carolina

Booksellers can find links to Edelweiss collections for all the finalists here: Fiction | Nonfiction | Children's & YA