Evvie Drake Starts Over: A Novel

by Linda Holmes

Published: 6/25/2019 by Ballantine Books
ISBN: 9780525619246

“Relationships are hard, whether with a spouse, a best friend, a new love interest, or ourselves. Evvie navigates all of these after a life-changing series of events. An engaging novel that explores relationship nuances without being too dark or too cutesy. For fans of Jenny Colgan, Cecilia Ahern, and Sophie Kinsella.”

Maribeth Fisher, Scotch Plains Public Library, Scotch Plains, NJ
NoveList Read-alike: The Garden of Small Beginnings by Abbi Waxman

Ayesha at Last

by Uzma Jalaluddin

Published: 6/4/2019 by Berkley
ISBN: 9781984802798

“Ayesha puts aside dreams of poetry and works in Toronto as a teacher to repay debts to her family. A deep-rooted family trauma ties Khalid to his controlling mother and gives him a rigid understanding of the world. Can these two young Muslims forge a healing path? A sweet modern romance perfect for readers of The Wedding Date and The Kiss Quotient.”

Ariel Yang, Forest Grove City Library, Forest Grove, OR
Novelist Read-alike: The Matchmaker’s List by Sonya Lalli

Call Your Daughter Home: A Novel

by Deb Spera

Published: 6/11/2019 by Park Row
ISBN: 9780778307747

“Three strong women support each other through tough times in 1924 South Carolina. Gertrude, Retta, and Annie unite against injustice in their small town in this beautifully written story in which time and place come to life. For readers who enjoyed The Twelve Tribes of Hattie and The Invention of Wings.”

Suzy Card, Grapevine Library, Grapevine, TX
NoveList Read-alike: The Last Ballad by Wiley Cash

City of Girls: A Novel

by Elizabeth Gilbert

Published: 6/4/2019 by Riverhead
ISBN: 9781594634734

“Free-spirited Vivian recounts her life, focusing on her formative years in the 1940s. Nineteen and new to NYC, she became the costumer for her aunt’s struggling theater company. Colorful characters, misadventures, triumphs, and trials populate this fun, frolicking read. For fans of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.”

Sonia Reppe, Stickney-Forest View Public Library, Stickney, IL
NoveList Read-alike: The Seamstress of Hollywood Boulevard by Erin McGraw

Fix Her Up: A Novel

by Tessa Bailey

Published: 6/11/2019 by Avon
ISBN: 9780062872838

“After her brother’s best friend (and her longtime crush) Travis is injured, Georgie makes it her goal to bring him back to the land of the living. When he needs help cleaning up his wild image, she is happy to help…and maybe score some action on the side. A funny, endearing, and spicy romance. For readers of Christina Lauren.”

Jessica Batten, Marion County Public Library System, WV
NoveList Read-alike: The Real Deal by Lauren Blakely

Kingdom of Exiles

by Maxym M. Martineau

Published: 6/25/2019 by Sourcebooks Landmark
ISBN: 9781492689386

“An epic fantasy love story that hooks readers from the beginning with its expert world-building. The characters are skillfully crafted, realistic and sympathetic. Readers will look forward to continuing the journey in this new series. For fans of Whims of Fae by Nissa Leder and Blood Oath by Raye Wagner.”

Leanna Frankland, New York Public Library, New York, NY
NoveList Read-alike: A Promise of Fire by Amanda Bouchet

Magic for Liars: A Novel

by Sarah Gailey

Published: 6/4/2019 by Tor Books
ISBN: 9781250174611

“A blend of fantasy and murder mystery. Magic meets noir, throw in some romance and some witty dialog and you have a great pick for summer reading. For fans of Jasper Fforde and the Charley Davidson novels.”

Joseph Jones, Cuyahoga Public Library, Cuyahoga, OH
NoveList Read-alike: The Rook by Daniel O’Malley

Mrs. Everything: A Novel

by Jennifer Weiner

Published: 6/11/2019 by Atria Books
ISBN: 9781501133480

“A sweeping story about sisters Jo and Bethie, following them from their 1950s roots in Detroit to the present day. This novel is both heartwrenching and funny, and readers will cry and laugh with them along the journey. For fans of Juliet McDaniel’s Mr. and Mrs. American Pie.“

Cari Dubiel, Twinsburg Public Library, Twisnburg, OH
NoveList Read-alike: Shanghai Girls by Lisa See

Natalie Tan’s Book of Luck and Fortune

by Roselle Lim

Published: 6/11/2019 by Berkley
ISBN: 9781984803252

“Natalie inherits her grandmother’s restaurant in quickly-gentrifying Chinatown in San Francisco. A tea leaf reading tells Natalie she must cook three recipes from her Grandmother’s cookbook for her neighbors who are being pushed out in order for the restaurant to succeed. For fans of The Recipe Club: A Tale of Food and Friendship and Like Water for Chocolate.

Meghan Marong, Lackawanna Public Library, Scranton, NY
NoveList Read-alike: Number One Chinese Restaurant by Lillian Li

Recursion: A Novel

by Blake Crouch

Published: 6/11/2019 by Crown
ISBN: 9781524759780

“Compelling and accessible to the non-science-fiction reader. It is a suspenseful, thought-provoking book about altered memories, and how technology can be used for good, or for ill, or should never be used at all. For fans of Michael Crichton.”

Will Harbauer, Toledo Library, Toledo, OH
NoveList Read-alike: Hard-boiled Wonderland and the End of the World by Haruki Murakami

Courtesy of LibraryReads.org

LibraryReads May 2019: top ten books librarians love!

May 2019 LibraryReads List

The Bride Test

by Helen Hoang

Published: 5/7/2019 by Berkley Jove
ISBN: 9780451490827

“On the autism spectrum, Khai doesn’t feel anything for anyone. His mother recruits Esme, a young Vietnamese woman, to marry him. A realistic, humorous romance that reveals the slow path to love and a meaningful relationship. For those who loved The Kiss Quotient, The Rosie Project, and The Wedding Date.”

Jessica C. Williams, Tiffin-Seneca Public Library, Tiffin, OH
NoveList Read-alike: A Bollywood Affair by Sonali Dev

The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek: A Novel

by Kim Michele Richardson

Published: 5/7/2019 by Sourcebooks Landmark
ISBN: 9781492671527

“Blue-skinned Cussie brings books via horseback to rural, racially intolerant Kentucky in the 1930s. Her efforts demonstrate that people crave intellectual stimulation even when they are poverty stricken in a food desert. For fans of Sandra Dallas and Lee Smith.”

Courtenay Reece, Millville Public Library, Millville, NJ
Novelist Read-alike: Over the Plain Houses by Julia Franks

The Farm: A Novel

by Joanne Ramos

Published: 5/7/2019 by Random House
ISBN: 9781984853752

“What sounds like an easy way to make money while indulging in a spa-like oasis propels young pregnancy surrogates into ethically complex decisions, racial inequities, and new friendships. For those who loved The Handmaid’s Tale and Future Home of the Living God.”

Jesica Sweedler DeHart, Neill Public Library, Pullman, WA
NoveList Read-alike: A River of Stars by Vanessa Hua

The Flatshare: A Novel

by Beth O’Leary

Published: 5/28/2019 by Flatiron Books
ISBN: 9781250295637

“In this entertaining and humorous romance, Tiffy and Leon share a flat, but have never met. Who says you can’t fall in love if your only communication has been through Post-It notes? For fans of Bridget Jones’s Diary and Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating.”

Kelly Moore, Carrollton Public Library, Carrollton, TX
NoveList Read-alike: Attachments by Rainbow Rowell

How Not to Die Alone

by Richard Roper

Published: 5/28/2019 by G.P. Putnam’s Sons
ISBN: 9780525539889

“Andrew’s Council job is finding people to pay for funerals for the recently deceased, and he seems bound to a similar lonely destiny. When lively Peggy joins the staff, he begins to wonder if there’s more to life than model trains. Give to fans of Jojo Moyes, Nick Hornby, and Gail Honeyman.”

Jennifer Knight, North Olympic Public Library System, Port Angeles, Washington
NoveList Read-alike: Terms & Conditions by Robert Glancy

Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors: A Novel

by Sonali Dev

Published: 5/7/2019 by William Morrow Paperbacks
ISBN: 9780062839053

“Trisha Raje is a talented neurosurgeon, from an immigrant Indian family, descended from royalty. When she meets a patient’s brother we embark on a classic tale of enemies to lovers. With likable characters and an appealing story line, I highly recommend this book. For readers who enjoyed Pride and Prejudice and The Wedding Party.”

Ellen Firer, Merrick Library, Merrick, NY
NoveList Read-alike: Unmarriageable by Soniah Kamal

Red, White & Royal Blue: A Novel

by Casey McQuiston

Published: 5/7/2019 by St. Martin’s Griffin
ISBN: 9781250316776

“First Son Alex Claremont-Diaz is in his last semester of university and has an antagonistic relationship with Prince Henry of Wales. But friendship and then love blossoms when they are forced to pretend to be buddies after an embarrassing altercation. For fans of a good rom-com.”

Nita Gill, Brookings Public Library, Brookings, SD
NoveList Read-alike: The Royal We by Heather Cocks & Jessica Morgan

The Seven or Eight Deaths of Stella Fortuna: A Novel

by Juliet Grames

Published: 5/7/2019 by Ecco
ISBN: 9780062862822

“The life story of Italian-American Stella Fortuna is told through an interesting conceit: the times she nearly died. We follow her through an impoverished childhood in rural Italy, coming to America as a teenager, and finally wife, mother, and widow in suburban Connecticut. For fans of The Stars Are Fire and Daughter of Fortune.”

Celia Morse, Berkley Public Library, Berkley, MA
NoveList Read-alike: The Boston Girl by Anita Diamant

Storm Cursed

by Patricia Briggs

Published: 5/7/2019 by Ace
ISBN: 9780425281291

“Mercy Thompson has opened her garage again and is trying to get back to normal. Now that the Tri-Cities is neutral ground, all kinds of supernatural beings are heading her way. If you’re a Briggs fan, you’re going to love this book and look forward to the next. For fans of the Walker Papers and Weather Warden series.”

Helen Imre, Franklin Township Public Library, Somerset, NJ
NoveList Read-alike: The Jane Yellowrock novels by Faith Hunter

Sunset Beach: A Novel

by Mary Kay Andrews

Published: 5/7/2019 by St. Martin’s Press
ISBN: 9781250126108

“After her mother’s death, Drue Campbell inherits her grandparent’s beach cottage in Sunset Beach, Florida where she takes a job with her estranged father who is married to her high school frenemy. For readers who enjoyed The Identicals and Life’s a Beach.”

Evelyn Janoch, Rocky River Public Library, Rocky River, OH
NoveList Read-alike: The Perfect Coupleby Elin Hilderbrand

Courtesy of LibraryReads.org

April 22, 2019
by NML Readers Advisory Team Leave a comment

LibraryReads April 2019: top ten books librarians love!

April 2019 LibraryReads List

Lost Roses: A Novel

by Martha Hall Kelly

Published: 4/9/2019 by Ballantine Books
ISBN: 9781524796372

“The Ferriday family (The Lilac Girls) returns in this story of love, loss, and triumph. The voices of four compelling female characters tell of the devastating effects of the Russian Revolution and World War I. Highly recommended for book clubs and fans of Anthony Doerr, Susan Meissner, and Lauren Belfer.”

Mamie Ney, Auburn Public Library, Auburn, ME
NoveList Read-alike: The Women In The Castle by Jessica Shattuck

The Girl He Used to Know

by Tracey Garvis Graves

Published: 4/2/2019 by St. Martin’s Press
ISBN: 9781250200358

“A college romance with an odd, quiet girl fades when she fails to follow him to New York after graduation as promised. Ten years later, a chance meeting in Chicago reunites them. An interesting story giving insight into the world of a high functioning autistic adult. For readers who enjoyed The Rosie Project.”

Virginia Holsten, Vinton Public Library, Vinton, IA
Novelist Read-alike: Ghosted by Rosie Walsh

The Invited: A Novel

by Jennifer McMahon

Published: 4/30/2019 by Doubleday
ISBN: 9780385541381

“Nate and Helen leave their teaching jobs to build their dream home in rural Vermont. Helen begins seeing ghosts, and Nate becomes obsessed with a white doe. An unputdownable thriller about a house with a tragic past. Perfect for fans of Erin Kelly and Attica Locke.”

Terri Smith, Cornelia Library, Mt. Airy, GA
NoveList Read-alike: Mansion by Ezekiel Boone

Little Darlings: A Novel

by Melanie Golding

Published: 4/30/2019 by Crooked Lane Books
ISBN: 9781683319979

“A creepy, beautifully written story about a new mother of twin boys who claims to have seen a strange creature who wants to steal her babies. Doctors and the police are dismissive. Then the unthinkable happens. For fans of modern myths, psychological suspense, and Fiona Barton.”

Amy Verkruissen, Calcasieu Parish Public Library, Lake Charles, LA
NoveList Read-alike: The Other Mother by Carol Goodman

Miracle Creek: A Novel

by Angie Kim

Published: 4/16/2019 by Sarah Crichton Books
ISBN: 9780374156022

“When a medical treatment facility explodes, killing two people, the ensuing murder trial rocks the town while witnesses go to extremes to conceal their darkest secrets. Part family drama, part whodunit, Miracle Creek is a gripping debut. For fans of Celeste Ng and Liane Moriarty.”

Portia Kapraun, Delphi Public Library, Delphi, IN
NoveList Read-alike: Defending Jacob by William Landay

The Mother-In-Law: A Novel

by Sally Hepworth

Published: 4/23/2019 by St. Martin’s Press
ISBN: 9781250120922

Lucy hopes to have a good relationship with her husband Ollie’s mother, but Diana makes it difficult. When Diana is found dead of an apparent suicide, Lucy reexamines everything she knows about Diana and the rest of the family. For fans of The Perfect Couple by Elin Hilderbrand and The Lake House by Kate Morton.

Chris Markley, Kingsport Public Library, Kingsport, TN
NoveList Read-alike: The Other Woman by Sandie Jones

Normal People: A Novel

by Sally Rooney

Published: 4/16/2019 by Hogarth
ISBN: 9781984822178

“Follows the complicated relationship between Connell, a popular boy, and Marianne, a lonely and private girl, through their high school years and college. A great book club pick. For fans of Three Junes by Julia Glass and Idaho by Emily Ruskovich.”

Anbolyn Potter, Chandler Public Library, Chandler, AZ
NoveList Read-alike: The Lesser Bohemians by Eimear Mcbride

Save Me the Plums: My Gourmet Memoir

by Ruth Reichl

Published: 4/2/2019 by Random House
ISBN: 9781400069996

“Reichl’s captivating story about leaving her job as a New York Times restaurant critic to become Editor in Chief of Gourmet magazine. Her writing is as luscious as the food she critiques. For fans of Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain and My Life in France by Julia Child.

Katelyn Boyer, Fergus Falls Public Library, Fergus Falls, MN
NoveList Read-alike: My Soul Looks Back by Jessica B. Harris

Southern Lady Code: Essays

by Helen Ellis

Published: 4/16/2019 by Doubleday
ISBN: 9780385543897

“A funny, spot-on collection of essays on topics ranging from marriage and manners, three-ways, and how to be a good friend in the middle of a murder trial. For fans of You Play the Girl by Carina Chocano and Thick by Tressie McMillan Cottom.”

Linda Quinn, Fairfield Public Library, Fairfield, CT
NoveList Read-alike: Look Alive Out There by Sloane Crosley

Women Talking

by Miriam Toews

Published: 4/2/2019 by Bloomsbury
ISBN: 9781635572582

“In a modern-day Mennonite community, eight women surreptitiously gather in a barn to decide their future after learning the truth behind two years of sexual assaults committed by neighbors and family members. Their circuitous, swooping two-day conversation touches on faith, autonomy, duty, anger, and their hopes for their lives and those of their children in this compelling and haunting read. For fans of Lauren Groff.”

Andrea Gough, The Seattle Public Library, Seattle, WA
NoveList Read-alike: The Natural Way Of Things by Charlotte Wood

Courtesy of LibraryReads.org

March 7, 2019
by NML Readers Advisory Team Leave a comment

LibraryReads March 2019: top ten books librarians love!

March 2019 LibraryReads List

My Lovely Wife

by Samantha Downing

Published: 3/26/2019 by Berkley
ISBN: 9780451491725

“An incredible, dark, twisty psychological thriller with two of the most seemingly normal but disturbingly depraved people you will read about in fiction. This brilliant debut needs to be at the top of your must-read list. For readers who like taut suspense and works by Gillian Flynn, B.A. Paris, and Mary Kubica.”

Rachel Reeves, Weatherford Public Library, Weatherford, TX
NoveList Read-alike: Behind Her Eyes / Sarah Pinborough

Beautiful Bad

by Annie Ward

Published: 3/5/2019 by Park Row
ISBN: 9780778369103

“Maddie the innocent travel writer and Jo the wild child are living quite the life abroad when Ian crosses their path and changes both their lives permanently. Moving backward and forward in time, the narrative slowly reveals hidden truths. For fans of Paula Hawkins and Ruth Ware.”

Selena Swink, Lake Public Library, Lake, MS
Novelist Read-alike: Before I Go to Sleep / S.J. Watson

The Bird King

by G. Willow Wilson

Published: 3/12/2019 by Grove Press
ISBN: 9780802129031

“Lush and wonderful language, characters, and worldbuilding make this an enjoyable read for fans of historical fantasy. The relationship between concubine Fatima and mapmaker Hassan is multifaceted and compelling. A good choice for readers who liked Uprooted and City of Brass.”

Nora Walsh, Princeton Public Library, Princeton, NJ
NoveList Read-alike: The Lions of Al-Rassan / Guy Gavriel Kay

A Dangerous Collaboration

by Deanna Raybourn

Published: 3/12/2019 by Berkley
ISBN: 9780451490711

“In this fine addition to the series, Veronica Speedwell joins Stoker and his brother on an island off the British coast, attempting to solve a years-old mystery about the disappearance of a young woman on her wedding day. Recommended for fans of historical Victorian fiction, murder mysteries, and lepidoptery.”

Jill McKinney, Gunnison County Library, Gunnison, CO
NoveList Read-alike: Lady Travelers Guide series / Victoria Alexander

The Last Woman in the Forest

by Diane Les Becquets

Published: 3/5/2019 by Berkley
ISBN: 9780399587047

“A suspenseful, surprising story that begins with every woman’s worst nightmare–a breakdown on a lonely road in the middle of the night and a bad feeling about the handsome guy who stops to help. This kick-in-the-gut start leads to a more thoughtful mystery with a big twist. Recommended for fans of Lee Child.”

Patricia Uttaro, Monroe County Library System, Monroe, NY
NoveList Read-alike: The Wild Inside / Christine Carbo

The Last Year of the War

by Susan Meissner

Published: 3/19/2019 by Berkley
ISBN: 9780451492159

“The story of two teenage girls who forge a life long friendship in an internment camp in Crystal City, Texas. For fans of historical fiction and readers who enjoy stories about immigration experiences and life during wartime.”

Kimberly McGee, Lake Travis Community Library, Austin, TX
NoveList Read-alike: Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet / Jamie Ford

The Library of Lost and Found

by Phaedra Patrick

Published: 3/26/2019 by Park Row
ISBN: 9780778369356

“Martha Storm volunteers at the local library and has a tendency to help others over taking care of herself. One day she receives a mysterious book from the grandmother she believed dead and begins digging into her family’s past. Who doesn’t love a book about books? For fans of Elizabeth Berg and Fredrik Backman.”

Shari Suarez, Genesee District Library, Genesee, MI
NoveList Read-alike: The Bookshop on the Corner / Jenny Colgan

Professor Chandra Follows His Bliss: A Novel

by Rajeev Balasubramanyam

Published: 3/26/2019 by The Dial Press
ISBN: 9780525511380

When Chandra fails to win the Nobel Prize in Economics, again, then suffers a heart attack, he decides to make changes in his life. A humorous journey of self-discovery similar to Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand and The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry.”

Lora Bruggeman, Indian Prairie Public Library, Darien, IL
NoveList Read-alike: This Is Your Life, Harriet Chance! / Jonathan Evison

Queenie

by Candice Carty-Williams

Published: 3/19/2019 by Gallery/Scout Press
ISBN: 9781501196010

“Queenie, a 25-year-old British-Jamaican woman, struggles to have a sense of purpose after being dumped by her white boyfriend. This humorous and timely debut sheds light on society’s fetishization of black women and its impact on family, relationships and mental health.”

Molly Riportella, Westwood Public Library, Westwood, MA
NoveList Read-alike: New People / Danzy Senna

The River: A Novel

by Peter Heller

Published: 3/5/2019 by Knopf
ISBN: 9780525521877

“A love letter to the great outdoors. Both adventure story and elegant nature writing. Two college students on a canoe trip face a wildfire, white-water rapids, and two mysterious strangers. For fans of Tim Johnston and Dave Eggers.”

Sara Kennedy, Delaware County District Library, Delaware, OH
NoveList Read-alike: The River at Night / Erica Ferencik

Courtesy of LibraryReads.org

February 5, 2019
by NML Readers Advisory Team Leave a comment

LibraryReads February 2019: top ten books librarians love!

February 2019 LibraryReads List

The Silent Patient

by Alex Michaelides

Published: 2/5/2019 by Celadon Books
ISBN: 9781250301697

“Led on a dark path, readers will quickly guess that there’s more to Alicia’s story than what meets the eye. But the big surprises lie in the deep betrayals and the shock of an ending. Dark, twisted, perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn, Paula Hawkins, and Ruth Ware.”

The Care and Feeding of Ravenously Hungry Girls

by Anissa Gray

Published: 2/19/2019 by Berkley
ISBN: 9781984802439

“A beautifully written novel told from the viewpoints of three sisters whose dysfunctional childhood has left deep wounds. Family also serves as a source of strength as the women face the damage done and try to heal. For readers who enjoy Tayari Jones and Jessmyn Ward.”

Janine Walsh, East Meadow Public Library, East Meadow, NY

Daughter of Moloka’i

by Alan Brennert

Published: 2/19/2019 by St. Martin’s Press
ISBN: 9781250137661

“Fans of Moloka’i and new readers will adore this interesting, heartfelt sequel. Taken from her parents as an infant, Ruth is adopted by a loving family who experiences more than their fair share of upheaval and heartache balanced with love and joy. Readers of Min Jin Lee’s Pachinko may enjoy.”

Sharon Layburn, South Huntington Public Library, Huntington Station, NY

Finding Dorothy: A Novel

by Elizabeth Letts

Published: 2/12/2019 by Ballantine Books
ISBN: 9780525622109

“In examining the meeting between Judy Garland and Maud Baum, Letts weaves two narratives: Hollywood in 1938-39, and Baum’s childhood and marriage to L. Frank Baum, author of the book that inspired the movie. A fascinating behind-the-scenes story for Oz fans.”

Lauren McLaughlin, Wilton Library Association, Wilton, CT

The Girls at 17 Swann Street: A Novel

by Yara Zgheib

Published: 2/5/2019 by St. Martin’s Press
ISBN: 9781250202444

“A mesmerizing glimpse inside a rehab program for victims of anorexia. This fictional account of one young woman’s life-saving journey is eye-opening with its descriptions and statistics. For readers who enjoy fiction about social and psychological issues, and books by Wally Lamb and Chris Bohjalian.”

Marilyn Sieb, L.D. Fargo Library, Lake Mills, WI

Good Riddance

by Elinor Lipman

Published: 2/5/2019 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
ISBN: 9780544808256

“An annotated yearbook is an interesting plot device, and Lipman populates it with likable characters that you can’t help but root for and with “villains” so ridiculous that you can’t help but laugh at them. Perfectly paced, engagingly written, and fun. For fans of Adriana Trigiani.”

Lorri Steinbacher, Ridgewood Public Library, Ridgewood, NJ

The Huntress: A Novel

by Kate Quinn

Published: 2/26/2019 by William Morrow Paperbacks
ISBN: 9780062740373

“This is a novel I can happily recommend to patrons who like historical fiction. It excels in both plotting and character development. Nina Markova, a bomber pilot stranded behind enemy lines, becomes the target of a Nazi assassin. For fans of Jackdaws by Ken Follett and Up In Honey’s Room by Elmore Leonard.

Maria Gruener, Watertown Regional Library, Watertown, SD

Kid Gloves: Nine Months of Careful Chaos

by Lucy Knisley

Published: 2/26/2019 by First Second
ISBN: 9781626728080

“This wonderful graphic novel is also the most honest, comprehensive, revealing, and helpful book on pregnancy, miscarriages, birth, breastfeeding, and everything in between that has ever been written. I wish I had had this book as I was leveled with morning sickness for nine months.”

Jesica Sweedler DeHart, Neill Public Library, Pullman, WA

The Last Romantics: A Novel

by Tara Conklin

Published: 2/5/2019 by William Morrow
ISBN: 9780062358202

“A fresh look at family dynamics, this is the story of four siblings and their love for one another spanning their entire lives. For fans of The Nest by Cynthia D’aprix Sweeny and The Past by Tessa Hadley.”

Jennifer Dayton, Fairfield Public Library, Fairfield, CT

The Priory of the Orange Tree

by Samantha Shannon

Published: 2/26/2019 by Bloomsbury Publishing
ISBN: 9781635570298

“Brilliant world building; multi-dimensional characters; magic; friendship; plots; secrets; romance; and battles between good and evil…. this book has it all. The best new fantasy I’ve read in years. I eagerly await the next installment. For fans of Naomi Novik.”

Alexa Newman, Algonquin Area Public Library, Algonquin, IL

Courtesy of LibraryReads.org

January 4, 2019
by NML Readers Advisory Team Leave a comment

LibraryReads January 2019: top ten books librarians love!

January 2019 LibraryReads List

Once Upon a River: A Novel

by Diane Setterfield

Published: 12/4/2018 by Atria/Emily Bestler Books
ISBN: 9780743298070

“A wonderfully dark and mysterious read. Something happens one stormy winter solstice evening that triggers a chain of events that changes the lives of all the main characters. Moody and mystical. For readers who love gothic fiction like The Death of Mrs. Westaway and The Clockmaker’s Daughter. ”

Melanie Liechty, Logan Library, Logan, UT

An Anonymous Girl

by Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen

Published: 1/8/2019 by St. Martin’s Press
ISBN: 9781250133731

“Struggling to stay afloat with a job as a makeup artist, Jessica signs up for a study, thinking she will earn some easy money. After the first two parts of the study, she gets invited to the professor’s house for more questions and more compensation. Fans of psychological thrillers won’t want to miss this one as Jessica is a compelling character and the novel will keep you reading long into the night.”

Annice Sevett, Albert Lea Public Library, Albert Lea, MN

The Au Pair

by Emma Rous

Published: 1/8/2019 by Berkley
ISBN: 9780440000457

“After giving birth to Seraphine and her twin brother Danny, their mother throws herself from a cliff. 25 years later, Seraphine finds a picture that makes her question everything she thought she knew about her childhood. For fans of compelling suspense novels and family secrets.”

Selena Swink, Lake Public Library, Lake, MS

The Current: A Novel

by Tim Johnston

Published: 1/22/2019 by Algonquin Books
ISBN: 9781616206772

“When two girls, trapped in a RAV4, fall into an icy river one dies and the other barely survives. Unanswered questions and old accusations resurface as the small Minnesota town recalls another incident ten years earlier where a girl died in the same river. For readers who love small town suspense.”

Shellie Taylor, Iredell County Public Library, Statesville, NC

The Dreamers: A Novel

by Karen Thompson Walker

Published: 1/15/2019 by Random House
ISBN: 9780812994162

“A virus appears in the small town of Santa Lora that causes its victims to fall into a deep sleep from which they cannot wake up. While this story is about a pandemic apocalypse, it also reminds us of our humanity and how we are all connected. For fans of The Country of Ice Cream Star and The Water Knife.”

Cari Dubiel, Twinsburg Public Library, Twinsburg, OH

My Favorite Half-Night Stand

by Christina Lauren

Published: 12/4/2018 by Gallery Books
ISBN: 9781501197406

“Another delightful contemporary rom-com from the author of Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating. Millie and her four male friends decide to jump into the pool of online dating together. When Millie matches with one of the friends, chaos ensues. For fans of The Kiss Quotient and The Wedding Date.”

Kelsey Hudson, Middleton Public Library, Middleton, WI

The Red Address Book

by Sofia Lundberg

Published: 1/8/2019 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
ISBN: 9781328473011

“A ninety-six-year-old Swedish woman reflects on her life, paging through a long-kept address book. A compelling, charming, and ultimately heartwarming read. For fans of Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk and The Japanese Lover.”

Brenda O’Brien, Woodridge Public Library, Woodridge, IL

The Suspect

by Fiona Barton

Published: 1/22/2019 by Berkley
ISBN: 9781101990513

“Reporter Kate Waters pursues the story of two 18-year-olds who have gone missing in Thailand. The case takes a turn when the main suspect is Kate’s estranged son. For fans of twisty psychological suspense.”

Jennifer Winberry, Hunterdon County Library, Flemington, NJ

Unmarriageable: A Novel

by Soniah Kamal

Published: 1/15/2019 by Ballantine Books
ISBN: 9781524799717

“A thoroughly enjoyable retelling of Pride and Prejudice set in modern-day Pakistan. The characters, storyline, and dialogue are true to the original while being completely fresh. For readers who enjoy a comedy of manners.”

Kristen Gramer, Lewes Public Library, Lewes, DE

Watching You: A Novel

by Lisa Jewell

Published: 12/26/2018 by Atria Books
ISBN: 9781501190070

“Set in an upscale English neighborhood where everyone knows everyone and someone is always watching. When one of the residents is found murdered, the police investigation turns up long buried secrets. Told from multiple viewpoints and alternating between past and present.”

Cyndi Larsen, Avon Free Public Library, Avon, CT

Courtesy of LibraryReads.org

December 17, 2018
by NML Readers Advisory Team Leave a comment

LibraryReads Favorite of Favorites 2018

Favorite of Favorites 2018

Educated: A Memoir

by Tara Westover

Published: 2/20/2018
by Random House
ISBN: 9780399590504

“In her memoir, Westover recounts her childhood growing up in a strict Mormon family, ruled by an erratic father, and living off the grid in Idaho. Westover compellingly sketches her years growing up, her relationships with siblings, encounters in the town nearby, and the events that eventually drove her to leave and pursue formal education. For fans of Jeannette Walls’ The Glass Castle.”

Andrea Gough, Seattle Public Library, Seattle, WA

An American Marriage

by Tayari Jones

Published: 2/6/2018 by Algonquin Books
ISBN: 9781616201340

“Celestial and Roy are newly married professionals leaning in to a bright future when Roy is convicted of a crime he did not commit. This is not a heroes vs. villains tale with a tidy resolution. It is a complicated, messy, moving, and thought-provoking story about love, family, and the wide-reaching effects of incarceration. Book clubs get ready!”

Jennifer Alexander, St. Louis County Library, St. Louis, MO

Circe

by Madeline Miller

Published:4/10/2018 by Little, Brown and Company
ISBN: 9780316556347

“Circe follows the banished witch daughter of the Titans as she practices her powers for an inevitable conflict with one of Olympus’s most vindictive gods. I found myself pondering motherhood, mortality, and feminism. For readers of historical and mythological drama or anyone who loves a strong female lead.”

McKelle George, Salt Lake City Public Library, Salt Lake, UT

The Death of Mrs. Westaway

by Ruth Ware

Published: 5/29/2018 by Gallery/Scout Press
ISBN: 9781501156212

“Ware’s best book by far. I finally stopped trying to puzzle it out and just sat back to enjoy the ride.”

Susanne Guide, Union County Public Library, Liberty, IN

The Great Alone: A Novel

by Kristin Hannah

Published: 2/6/2018 by St. Martin’s Press
ISBN: 9780312577230

“Leni and her troubled family embark on a new way of life in Alaska’s wilderness in 1974 – hoping this is finally the solution for her troubled, POW father. In Alaska, Leni and her family are tested and when change comes to their small community her father’s anger threatens to explode and divide the town. This is a beautifully written novel, descriptive and engaging with well-developed characters and a strong sense of place.”

Alissa Williams, Morton Public Library, Morton, IL

The Immortalists

by Chloe Benjamin

Published: 1/9/2018 by G.P. Putnam’s Sons
ISBN: 9780735213180

“A thought-provoking, sweeping family saga set in New York City’s Lower East Side, 1969. Four siblings sneak out to visit a psychic who reveals to each, separately, the exact date of his or her death. The book goes on to recount five decades of experience shaped by the siblings’ attempts to control fate.”

Kelly Currie, Delphi Public Library, Delphi, IN

The Kiss Quotient

by Helen Hoang

Published: 6/5/2018 by Berkley/Jove
ISBN: 9780451490803

“A wonderfully sweet and erotic romance featuring an autistic heroine who hires a hot male escort to teach her how to enjoy sex, but learns so much more.”

Elizabeth Gabriel, Milwaukee Public Library, Milwaukee, WI

There, There

by Tommy Orange

Published: 6/5/2018 by Knopf
ISBN: 9780525520375

“A large cast of interwoven characters depicts the experience of Native Americans living in urban settings. Perfect for readers of character-driven fiction with a strong sense of place.”

Abby Johnson, New Albany-Floyd County Public Library, New Albany, IN

The Wedding Date

by Jasmine Guillory

Published: 1/30/2018 by Berkley/Jove
ISBN: 9780399587665

“Drew is in San Francisco for his ex-girlfriend’s wedding. When he finds himself stuck in an elevator with Alexa, they hatch a plan to go to the wedding together, pretending to be a couple. Told in alternating points of view, this is a delightful multicultural romance.”

Elizabeth Gabriel, Milwaukee Public Library, Milwaukee, WI

The Woman in the Window: A Novel

by A.J. Finn

Published: 1/2/2018 by William Morrow
ISBN: 9780062678416

“A menacing psychological thriller that starts out like Rear Window and then veers off into unexpected places. An agoraphobic recluse languishes in her New York City home, drinking wine and spying on her neighbors. One day she witnesses a crime that threatens to expose her secrets.”

Joseph Jones, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Cuyahoga, OH

Courtesy of LibraryReads.org