Today we’re excited to wish a very happy #BookBday to:
SEDITION by Katharine Grant In this "...witty, dark, and sophisticated tale" (Publishers Weekly, starred review), four nouveau rich fathers make their five marriageable daughters learn to play the piano in an effort to attract men and marry well. "[A] fun, lascivious gambol through the lives of women and men with decidedly carnal appetites... Suggest to fans of Sarah Dunant and Sarah Waters." — Booklist
MIMI MALLOY, AT LAST!by Julia MacDonnell An April 2014 Indie Next pick! "MacDonnell captures perfectly the family dynamics between sisters, mothers, and daughters, as if she were sitting in on their gab sessions, taking copious notes. For readers who enjoy Maeve Binchy and Rosamunde Pilcher, this is a highly engaging family chronicle, with a healthy dose of Irish history laced in as well." — Booklist
THE VENETIAN BARGAIN by Marina Fiorato An unforgettable love story set in sixteenth century Venice by the bestselling author of THE GLASSBLOWER OF MURANO. "Headstrong, smart, and likable, Feyra is a heroine who will resonate with most readers. Captivating language, intricate details, and a very dramatic story line combine to entice anyone interested in historical fiction and timeless tales." — Booklist
Who wants punch and cake? It's #BookBday time! Today we celebrate:
THE MIDNIGHT WITCH by Paula Brackston Brackston's third historical paranormal novel (after THE WITCH'S DAUGHTER and THE WINTER WITCH) follows Lilith, the daughter of the sixth Duke of Radnor, who also happens to be a witch. "There are balls and gowns as well as slums and opium dens, all painting a picture of a lost age, with just enough magic to keep things exciting for fantasy fans." — Library Journal
THE OTHER HALF by Sarah Rayner Told in the alternating voices of the mistress and the wife, this story of an affair between a bright feature writer and her magazine publisher boss is a sharp, seductive take on modern love "that straddles the line between chick lit and women’s fiction." — Booklist
QUEEN ELIZABETH'S DAUGHTERby Anne Clinard Barnhill When Mary Shelton, Elizabeth I’s young cousin and ward, falls in love with an unsuitable young gentleman against the Queen's wishes, the couple finds their very lives in danger as Elizabeth’s wrath knows no bounds. "Elizabeth’s court in miniature." — Kirkus Reviews
The April 2014 Indie Next list was recently announced and we're thrilled that it includes so many great Macmillan titles!
THE EMPATHY EXAMS by Leslie Jamison "A tough, intrepid, scouring observer and vigilant thinker, she generates startling and sparking extrapolations and analysis. On the prowl for truth and intimate with pain, Jamison carries forward the fierce and empathic essayistic tradition as practiced by writers she names as mentors, most resonantly James Agee and Joan Didion." — Booklist, starred review & our most popular ARC at ALA Midwinter!
THE PLOVERby Brian Doyle Doyle's story about a man who flees his troubled life on land for the solitude of the Pacific Ocean, but ends up on a rousing adventure is, “A rare and unusual book and a brilliant, mystical exploration of the human spirit.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review
MIMI MALLOY, AT LAST!by Julia MacDonnell "MacDonnell captures perfectly the family dynamics between sisters, mothers, and daughters, as if she were sitting in on their gab sessions, taking copious notes. For readers who enjoy Maeve Binchy and Rosamunde Pilcher, this is a highly engaging family chronicle, with a healthy dose of Irish history laced in as well." — Booklist
THE CAIRO AFFAIR by Olen Steinhauer Steinhauer's geopolitical tale about the aftermath of a diplomat's assassination and his wife's relentless investigation is “Elaborate, sophisticated…a long, twisty road full of cleverly placed potholes and unexpected turns. Mr. Steinhauer draws his spies as flesh-and-blood characters in whom his readers invest both attention and emotion.” — Janet Maslin, The New York Times
ROOSEVELT'S BEAST by Louis Bayard Bayard draws on Teddy and Kermit Roosevelt’s real-life ill-fated 1914 Amazon expedition to create "A suspense-filled re-imagining of history deepened by a confrontation with evil’s supernatural presence." — Kirkus Reviews
Spring is coming, we promise! If you're still stuck with winter weather, stay indoors, read, and nominate* your favorite May 2014 titles for the next LibraryReads list!
*(deadline for nominations is April 1. More details here.)
THE SNOW QUEEN by Michael Cunningham In the “tender, funny, and sorrowful” (Booklist, starred review) new novel from the Pulitzer Prize–winning author of THE HOURS, Cunningham examines the complex dynamics between a couple and a brother and a mysterious light in the sky.
THE HOLLOW GROUND by Natalie S. Harnett Set amongst the deadly coal mine fires of 1960s Pennsylvania, this extraordinary debut tells the coming-of-age story of Brigid Howley, a young girl struggling to keep her family together despite the "curse" laid upon them generations earlier. “This cursed Irish-American clan will grab you by the brisket and not let go.” — Gary Shteyngart, New York Times bestselling author of SUPER SAD TRUE LOVE STORY
DARK AEMILIAby Sally O'Reilly A tale of sorcery and passion in 17th century London—where witches haunt William Shakespeare and his dark lady, the playwright's muse and one true love. “O’Reilly casts her story with witches, doomed royals, evil courtiers, and star-crossed lovers, as if it were a Jacobean play. But her finest accomplishment is not the tribute she pays to these historical figures, but the bold imagination she displays in bringing them together.” — Publishers Weekly
INVISIBLE CITYby Julia Dahl In Julia Dahl's accomplished debut, young journalist Rebekah Roberts finds herself drawn into her mother's tight-knit world when she's assigned to cover the murder of an Hasidic Jew. “The secretive society of Brooklyn’s ultra-Orthodox Jews provides the backdrop for Dahl’s impressive debut. Dahl’s convincing dialogue and perfect pacing make for a real page-turner. And her storytelling skills illuminate the intriguing worlds of the tabloid press, Hasidism, the NYPD, and Brooklyn’s 20-somethings—as well as the fragile boundaries of family, religion, and life itself.” — Publishers Weekly, starred review
BONE DUST WHITE by Karin Salvalaggio When a young woman witnesses the murder of her mother who had abandoned her as a child, Detective Macy Greeley must solve the case and stop a killer in this “...haunting debut...that readers won't soon forget.” — Publishers Weekly
MY REAL CHILDRENby Jo Walton Hugo and Nebula Award–winning author Walton delivers the haunting and powerful tale of Patricia Cowan—a woman who lived two lives: one in which she marries and has four children, and the other in which she raises three children with her partner instead. Two lives, two worlds, two versions of modern history; each with their loves and losses, their sorrows and triumphs.
THE SHELF: From LEQ to LES: Adventures in Extreme Reading by Phyllis Rose Can you have an Extreme Adventure in a library? Phyllis Rose casts herself into the wilds of an Upper East Side lending library in an effort to do just that. Hoping to explore the “real ground of literature,” she reads her way through a somewhat randomly chosen shelf of fiction, from LEQ to LES. “Rose's...understanding of readers and reading is candid and sincere.” — Library Journal
Oh what a lovely day for a #BookBday! Today we're celebrating:
SHOTGUN LOVESONGS by Nickolas Butler Butler's debut novel about the relationship between four friends in a small Midwest town is the #1 March Indie Next pick, and is receiving rave reviews from Kirkus, Booklist, Shelf Awareness, and more. Don't miss the chance to meet him at PLA next week!
NOTES FROM THE INTERNET APOCALYPSE by Wayne Gladstone Perfect for fans of David Wong, Chad Kultgen, and Chuck Palahniuk, Cracked.com columnist Wayne Gladstone’s novel about what happens when the world suddenly loses all Internet access is a hilarious look at life unplugged. “...the punchlines are pitch-perfect. Anyone who spends time sharing jokes in web communities will find this satire irresistible.” — Booklist
BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FORby Jeffrey Archer The fourth volume in Jeffrey Archer's New York Times bestselling Clifton Chronicles series opens with Harry Clifton and his wife Emma rushing to learn the fate of their son Sebastian, who has been in a fatal car accident. But who died, Sebastian or his best friend? “Archer’s...tight plotting make for a page-turning rich man’s soap opera. Lightweight, entertaining beach reading.” — Kirkus Reviews
WORDS OF RADIANCE by Brandon Sanderson “Sanderson’s skill at world building is unmatched, and in the 'Stormlight Archive' series he has developed an innovative magical system and combined it with rich, complex characters to create a compelling story. His eagerly awaited sequel to THE WAY OF KINGS exceeds expectations. This developing epic series is a must-read for all fantasy fans.” – Library Journal, starred review
BITTER EDEN by Tatamkhulu Afrika Based on the author’s own capture in North Africa and his experiences as a prisoner-of-war in World War II in Italy and Germany, this frank and beautifully wrought novel deals with three men who must negotiate the emotions that are brought to the surface by the physical closeness of survival in the male-only camps. “BITTER EDEN is a beautifully crafted, absorbing read, a careful examination of human relationships, and a rare glimpse into the complexities of life in wartime.” — Booklist
MY NAME IS RESOLUTE by Nancy Turner A sweeping historical set in Revolutionary War-era New England, young Resolute Talbot is sold into slavery and taught spinning and weaving–skills that place her at the secret heart of the growing rebellion against England. "Every page of Turner's engrossing and fascinating work is better than the last. Not only historical fiction fans will love this beautifully written and compelling novel." — Library Journal
THE HEADMASTER'S WIFE by Thomas Christopher Greene Inspired by a personal loss, this is a beautifully written, haunting and deeply affecting portrait of one couple at their best and worst. "This is a riveting psychological novel about loss and the terrible mistakes and compromises one can make in love and marriage. Essential for fans of literary fiction." — Library Journal, starred review
Hey hey, it's almost time for PLA! We look forward to seeing you in Indianapolis, home of the Colts, Hoosiers, and the Indy 500! Stop by booth #1852 for a spell and join us for all of our exciting events (all are free unless otherwise noted):
Library Journal Author Party with Nickolas Butler, author of SHOTGUN LOVESONGS
Wednesday, March 12th 6:30-8:30pm The Alexander Hotel, 333 S. Delaware St., Indianapolis, IN 46204 | Alexander Ballroom RSVP required, space is limited
opens in a new windowJoin us for Library Journal's inaugural author party! Enjoy delicious nibbles (they had us at mini grilled cheese!) and mingle with writers, including Nickolas Butler whose debut novel, SHOTGUN LOVESONGS, about four friends trying to come into their own as husbands and fathers in the tiny town of Little Wing, Wisconsin is getting huge buzz.
RSVP information here. (Did we mention there will be tasty food? Don't make us eat all the spring rolls, too!)
Thursday, March 13th 10:45am-12:00 noon Indianapolis Convention Center | Room #103-104 RSVP required
Co-hosted by LibraryReads and the Association of American Publishers Trade Libraries Committee, this panel will feature several authors including Nickolas Butler (SHOTGUN LOVESONGS). A book signing will follow the program.
Friday, March 14th 7:00am to 8:15am Indianapolis Convention Center | Sagamore Ballroom #6-7 RSVP required, space is limited
Co-hosted by the Association of American Publishers Trade Libraries Committee and School Library Journal, this breakfast features several authors including Rainbow Rowell (FANGIRL). A book signing will follow the program.
opens in a new windowFriday, March 14th 10:45am-12:00 noon Indianapolis Convention Center | Wabash Ballroom #3 RSVP required
Co-hosted by LibraryReads and the Association of American Publishers Trade Libraries Committee, this mystery panel will feature several authors including Sophie Hannah (THE ORPHAN CHOIR).
Can't make it to PLA? Bummer. But wait! PLA is offering attendance via a virtual conference–click here for more information. You can also check out the action on Twitter via the hashtag #pla2014.
Hip hip hooray, it's time for another #BookBday! Today we celebrate:
QUESADILLAS by Juan Pablo Villalobos Mexican novelist Villalobos's darkly comic story about a poor Mexican family in which two teenage brothers set off to find their missing twin siblings–who were potentially abducted by aliens–is "a riotous tall tale” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) and "frequently laugh-out-loud funny." (Shelf Awareness)
GIRL ON THE GOLDEN COIN by Marci Jefferson This solid debut novel about the beautiful and captivating Royalist exile Frances Stuart, who must walk a fine line between pleasing kings and protecting her family's secret is perfect for fans of Philippa Gregory. "Jefferson's intoxicating first novel superbly draws readers into the mischief and maneuverings, loyalties and treacheries, and lust and hostility of powerful 17th century kings and scheming court sycophants." – Publishers Weekly, starred review
ACT ONE by Moss Hart Moss Hart’s ACT ONE is not only one of the most celebrated American theater books of the twentieth century, according to legendary actress Julie Andrews it's also “The ultimate Broadway memoir by the master who raised the bar for us all.” The book is coming out just in time for Lincoln Centre Theatre's stage adaptation of “Act One,” written by Tony and Pulitzer-Prize Winning writer/director James Lapine.
The March LibraryReads list may have just been announced (thank you to everyone who voted for PRECIOUS THING!!!), but we're already excited about April's potential picks. With February being such a short month and the Winter Olympics distracting us from reading time, the March 1 deadline to nominate April 2014 publications will be here faster than Shani Davis can break a new speedskating record!
Here's the inside track on our hot April titles:
KEEP QUIETby Lisa Scottoline In New York Times bestselling author Scottoline's latest standalone, Jake Whitmore is enjoying a rare bonding moment with his sixteen-year-old son, Ryan, when they get in a terrible car accident that threatens to derail Ryan’s future. Jake makes a split-second decision that saves his son from formal punishment, but plunges them both into a world of guilt, lies, and secrecy. When a malevolent outsider comes forward with the power to expose them, Jake must do anything he can to prevent the further unraveling of his family.
THE PLOVER by Brian Doyle When Declan O Donnell flees his troubled life on land by setting out on the Pacific Ocean in his boat, the Plover, he discovers something much more interesting than the solitude he sought. "Doyle (editor, Portland Magazine) has written a novel in the adventurous style of Jack London and Robert Louis Stevenson but with a gentle mocking of their valorization of the individual as absolute. Readers will enjoy this bracing and euphoric ode to the vastness of the ocean and the unexpectedness of life." — Library Journal, starred review
SEDITION by Katharine Grant In this "...witty, dark, and sophisticated tale" (Publishers Weekly, starred review), four nouveau rich fathers make their five marriageable daughters learn to play the piano in an effort to attract men and marry well. However, the girls' lascivious (and French) piano teacher has an education beyond music in his plans. "[A] fun, lascivious gambol through the lives of women and men with decidedly carnal appetites... Suggest to fans of Sarah Dunant and Sarah Waters." — Booklist
DESTROYER ANGEL by Nevada Barr In the next book in Barr's New York Times bestselling Anna Pigeon series, a camping trip in Minnesota goes harrowingly wrong when Anna's friends are taken hostage by armed thugs. "Once again, Barr lays down a riveting mystery and permeates the pages with scrupulous descriptions of Anna's struggle with the cold, with the night, and with the terror and fear of not rescuing her friends." — Library Journal, starred review
DON'T EVER LOOK BACK by Daniel Friedman In this "alternately humorous and moving sequel" (Publishers Weekly) to the Edgar Award-nominated debut DON'T EVER GET OLD, feisty octogenarian Buck Schatz is trying to close the case on some unsolved robberies from his past.
'TIL THE WELL RUNS DRY by Lauren Francis-Sharma This buzzed about debut novel is a glorious and moving multi-generational, multicultural saga that begins in the 1940s and sweeps through the 1960s in Trinidad and the United States. "Why the buzz: Voice, Voice, Voice! A story that takes you places you have never been and will stay with you forever." — Publishers Weekly, ABA's Winter Institute 9 round-up
MIMI MALLOY AT LAST by Julia MacDonnell An April 2014 Indie Next pick!"MacDonnell captures perfectly the family dynamics between sisters, mothers, and daughters, as if she were sitting in on their gab sessions, taking copious notes. For readers who enjoy Maeve Binchy and Rosamunde Pilcher, this is a highly engaging family chronicle, with a healthy dose of Irish history laced in as well." — Booklist
THE OTHER STORY by Tatiana de Rosnay The internationally bestselling author of SARAH'S KEY returns with another absorbing novel about a young writer who, while digging into his family’s deeply buried secrets, finds the key to his future.
D'oh! We forgot to wish our new books a happy #BookBday on Tuesday! We'll keep the party going with belated best wishes for...
THE LAST ENCHANTMENTS by Charles Finch Finch's coming-of-age tale about a Yale graduate is getting lots of attention, from People Magazine to USA Today. "In prose that glides effortlessly from scene to scene, Finch captures the fleeting time in people’s lives when their every decision, from career to lover, seems freighted with eternal consequence. Highly recommended for all collections." – Library Journal, starred review
THE QUEEN'S DWARFby Ella March Chase In this richly imagined novel set in the Stuart court, our unique hero Jeffrey Hudson–who happens to be a dwarf–is tasked with spying on the beautiful but vulnerable queen. "Rich in detail and brimming with intriguing characters, Chase’s novel will please fans of historical fiction..." – Kirkus Reviews
A DARKLING SEA by James Cambias This debut science fiction novel about alien races has three remarkable starred reviews, such as this one from Kirkus: “An exceptionally thoughtful, searching and intriguing debut.”