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

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

October 8, 2018
by NML Readers Advisory Team Leave a comment

LibraryReads October 2018: top ten books librarians love!

October 2018 LibraryReads List

The Proposal

by Jasmine Guillory

Published: 10/30/2018 by Berkley Jove
ISBN: 9780399587689

“A disastrous public wedding proposal results in a chance meeting between Nik and Carlos. What follows is a delightfully humorous and sweet story about two people falling for each other while remaining seemingly unaware of their blossoming romance. The book sets itself apart by portraying a self-aware, feminist woman who enjoys positive relationships with female friends. An engaging and upbeat multicultural romance.”

LaNiesha Bowles, Boston Public Library, Boston, MA

The Clockmaker’s Daughter: A Novel

by Kate Morton

Published: 10/9/2018 by Atria Books
ISBN: 9781451649390

“Events that occurred in the late 19th century at Birchwood Manor cast their shadows over the next 150 years, with various mysterious voices explaining how those events affected their lives. Attentive readers will be rewarded as clues are revealed. Atmospheric and perfect for gothic fiction fans of Sarah Waters and Beatriz Williams.”

Virginia Holsten, Vinton Public Library, Vinton, IA

Consumed

by J. R. Ward

Published: 10/2/2018 by Gallery Books
ISBN: 9781501194900

“This first book in Ward’s newest series featuring firefighters in New Brunswick, NJ, includes well-crafted macho heroes, tough female characters, and believable relationships. Readers will be excited to see where this series goes. For fans of Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood series and readers who like gritty and steamy suspense.”

Kelsey Hudson, Middleton Public Library, Middleton, WI

The Dream Daughter: A Novel

by Diane Chamberlain

Published: 10/2/2018 by St. Martin’s Press
ISBN: 9781250087300

“In 1970, young and recently widowed Carly learns that the baby she is carrying has a fatal birth defect. Enter her quirky but lovable brother-in-law, who proposes a highly improbable solution: travel to the future where a medical procedure exists to save her unborn child. This twisty story with well-developed characters is highly recommended, but with a trigger warning for mothers. A good crossover title for domestic fiction and science fiction readers, and fans of Kristin Hannah, Jodi Picoult, and Chris Bohjalian.”

Erica Naranjo, Sacramento Public Library, Sacramento, CA

The Library Book

by Susan Orlean

Published: 10/16/2018 by Simon and Schuster
ISBN: 9781476740188

“An investigation of the fire that devastated the Los Angeles Public Library in 1986 evolves into a page-turning history of the immense impact libraries and books have had throughout time. Profoundly moving and enlightening, and a clear call to readers to appreciate and support their libraries. For readers who enjoy high-quality narrative nonfiction.”

Jesica Sweedler DeHart, Neill Public Library, Pullman, WA

November Road: A Novel

by Lou Berney

Published: 10/9/2018 by William Morrow
ISBN: 9780062663849

“Set in the weeks just after JFK’s assassination, a mob hit man on the run meets a woman who has just impulsively left her alcoholic husband. A beautifully written suspense novel that’s hard to put down, with well-developed, sympathetic characters and plenty of intrigue. Fans of John Hart and Dennis Lehane will appreciate this fast-paced thriller.”

Jill Smith, Bayport Public Library, Bayport, MN

One Day in December: A Novel

by Josie Silver

Published: 10/16/2018 by Broadway Books
ISBN: 9780525574682

“An enjoyable page-turner, with a romance that begins with a chance connection at a bus stop and brews in secret over a number of years. More literary romance than chick-lit, this title would be a good choice for readers who enjoy books by Meg Donohue or Erica Bauermeister.”

Marlyn Beebe, Long Beach Public Library, Long Beach, CA

Unsheltered: A Novel

by Barbara Kingsolver

Published: 10/16/2018 by Harper
ISBN: 9780062684561

“Willa and her college professor husband made all the “right” decisions, yet are nearing retirement holding an empty bag. The rise of the service economy, materialism, middle-class disenfranchisement, a labyrinthine health care system, immigration–even Charles Darwin–all factor into this relevant story about social upheaval and an ever-changing American Dream.”

Lori Hench, Baltimore County Public Library, Baltimore, MD

Virgil Wander

by Leif Enger

Published: 10/2/2018 by Atlantic Monthly Press
ISBN: 9780802128782

“Virgil Wander survives a car crash with some speech and memory problems, and encounters a kite-flying stranger searching for information about his long-lost son. Enger explores and intricately layers the feelings and stories of an entire town full of people, each trying to survive their own life-changing experiences. A good pick for readers who enjoy quirky characters and for fans of Kent Haruf.”

Elizabeth Isabelle, DeKalb County Public Library System, DeKalb, GA

The Witch Elm: A Novel

by Tana French

Published: 10/9/2018 by Viking
ISBN: 9780735224629

“This standalone novel has all the things readers love about the Dublin Murder Squad books–well developed characters, exquisite plotting, and deep explorations of human nature. Toby leads a charmed life with an idyllic childhood, a good family, a loving girlfriend, and promising prospects. But a vicious attack changes everything. Atmospheric, twisty, and perfect for readers who like Gillian Flynn or Kate Atkinson.”

Laura Bovee, Chicopee Public Library, Chicopee, MA

A Spark of Light: A Novel

by Jodi Picoult

Published: 10/02/2018 by Ballantine Books
ISBN: 9781984828095

“This harrowing and insightful novel unwinds backwards in time over the course of a day during a tense hostage situation at a Mississippi women’s clinic and is told through multiple points of view: the gunman, the hostage negotiator, patients, clinic staff, and a right to life advocate. All sides of the abortion issue are explored with compassion through the characters’ stories, helping readers empathize and connect. Fans of Picoult’s issue-driven novels will not be disappointed.”

Catherine Coyne, Mansfield Public Library, Mansfield, MA

Courtesy of LibraryReads.org

August 6, 2018
by NML Readers Advisory Team Leave a comment

LibraryReads August 2018: top ten books librarians love!

August 2018 LibraryReads List

Vox

by Christina Dalcher

Published: 8/21/2018 by Berkley
ISBN: 9780440000785

“In the future world depicted in Vox, women are limited to speaking 100 words per day. Readers will want to shout every word in their heads, hoard every book in their libraries, and second guess the words of every person in their lives. A captivating, timely book that explores women’s rights in a fast-paced, compelling story.”

Jennifer Gaenzle, Fort Fairfield Public Library, Fort Fairfield, ME

Our House

by Louise Candlish

Published: 8/7/2018 by Berkley
ISBN: 9780451489111

“Full of secrets and surprises, Our House poses the question, “How well do you know the person you live with?” An attempt to co-habitate for the sake of the children leaves divorced mom Fiona alone and out in the cold. Readers will have a hard time putting down this twisty domestic suspense novel. Even after the last page is turned, the characters will linger.”

Annette Herbst, Columbia County Rural Library, Dayton, WA

Bellewether

by Susanna Kearsley

Published: 8/7/2018 by Sourcebooks Landmark
ISBN: 9781492665274

“A character-driven story with a nice surprise twist, this gothic-style fiction, set in 1759 Long Island, will not disappoint Kearsley’s many fans. Readers who enjoy good doses of romance, history, and magic will be pleased.”

Julie Raynor, High Point Public Library, High Point, NC

Good Luck with That

by Kristan Higgins

Published: 8/7/2018 by Berkley
ISBN: 9780451489395

“Emerson, Georgia, and Marley met as teens at a “fat camp.” When one of them dies young, the others are forced to confront their own struggles with self-esteem and acceptance. With equal measures of humor and heartbreak, this book sparks questions about society’s idea of the perfect size and explores how body image can have far-reaching effects.”

Claudia Silk, Fairfield Public Library, Fairfield, CT

The Masterpiece: A Novel

by Fiona Davis

Published: 8/7/2018 by Dutton
ISBN: 9781524742959

“Disparate decades of New York City are capably brought to life through two strong and resourceful female characters in Davis’s latest work. At the center is the Grand Central Terminal, which served as an art school in the 1920s, is threatened with demolition in the 1970s, and connects the threads of Clara Darden’s and Virginia Clay’s lives. Well researched and captivating.”

Kelly Baroletti, Wantagh Public Library, Wantagh, NY

The Other Woman: A Novel

by Sandie Jones

Published: 8/21/2018 by Minotaur Books
ISBN: 9781250191984

“Emily thinks she’s found the man of her dreams in Adam. But when she meets Pammie, the woman she hopes will be her future mother-in-law, things take a sinister turn. Fast-paced, gripping, and ultimately satisfying.”

Jenny Moore, Hillsboro Public Library, Hillsboro, OR

Rust & Stardust: A Novel

by T. Greenwood

Published: 8/7/2018 by St. Martin’s Press
ISBN: 9781250164193

“Disturbing crime fiction based on real events that inspired Nabokov’s Lolita. In 1948, fifth grade Sally Horner is kidnapped by a man pretending to be a police officer.”

Ninoshka Aviles, Osceola Library, Osceola, FL

Four Funerals and Maybe a Wedding

by Rhys Bowen

Published: 8/7/2018 by Berkley Prime Crime
ISBN: 9780425283523

“The 12th book in the Royal Spyness mystery series finds our heroine, Georgie, juggling all manner of details as she prepares for her upcoming marriage to Darcy. A fun, breezy mystery.”

Cori Dodds, Derby Public Library, Derby, KS

Meet Me at the Museum: A Novel

by Ann Youngson

Published: 8/7/2018 by Flatiron Books
ISBN: 9781250295163

“A touching epistolary novel about an English farmer’s wife and a museum curator who may be in for an unexpected second act.”

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

A River of Stars: A Novel

by Vanessa Hua

Published: 8/14/2018 by Ballantine Books
ISBN: 9780399178788

“A Chinese woman makes her way to America with her unborn daughter determined to make a life for them both. For readers who enjoy modern immigration stories like Behold the Dreamers and Little Fires Everywhere.”

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

Courtesy of LibraryReads.org