Break out the cake! It’s time for another #BookBday! Today we celebrate: LANDLINE by Rainbow Rowell Do we really need to say anything more about the #1 July LibraryReads pick? Didn’t think so. (But oh, how we love Rainbow!) HIGH AS THE HORSES’ BRIDLES by Scott Cheshire An urgent, electric debut novel about inheritance, belief, […]
Tag: literary fiction
A Super-Sized Summer Thriller: THE KILLS
If you attended Library Journal's “Day of Dialog” last week, you heard Picador publisher Stephen Morrison rave about Richard House’s THE KILLS. This epic thriller longlisted for the Man Booker prize is four books in one: Sutler, The Massive, The Kill, and The Hit. It begins with a man on the run and ends with a burned body, moving across continents, characters, and genres.
It's already received outstanding early praise and is showing up on Summer Reading Previews:
“In this remarkable, epic literary venture, a novel in four parts that was long-listed for the Man Booker Prize, House explores the collateral damage of our capitalist way of going to war…. Part Olen Steinhauer spy thriller and part Roberto Bolaño art novel, with a huge cast of characters, many Middle Eastern settings, and a puzzle of a time-shifting plot, THE KILLS is a work of intense artistic conviction and demands a serious commitment from its readers. They’ll be rewarded, even if the center of this dazzlingly large picture is elusive.” — Booklist, starred review
“House’s thousand-plus-page novel is an intense, frustrating yet unforgettable tale…. He presents intriguing characters and enthralling scenarios, then leaves readers to make sense of it all. This huge undertaking is notable for its ambition, and it seduces with both its shortcomings and its accomplishments.”
— Publishers Weekly, a May 5 Pick of the Week
“Engrossing… House’s four-part, 1,000-page novel of corruption and murder is a heady page-turner. Already a hit in the U.K., THE KILLS trots the globe with professional killers and military contractors, and earns its comparisons to John le Carré with a healthy dose of political intrigue.” — Time Out New York
“Nerds, stay calm… Richard House’s Booker-long-listed, 1,000 page, hallucinogenic fictional account of the Iraq War and its aftermath, THE KILLS, is finally released in the States [August 5].” — New York Magazine
Worried about toting around a brick of a galley? Fear not!
The e-galley is available on Edelweiss!
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Stars for THE SNOW QUEEN!
When a new Michael Cunningham book comes out, it's an event. We love the Pulitzer Prize-winning author's latest novel, THE SNOW QUEEN, which examines the complex dynamics between a brother and a couple (much like his last book, BY NIGHTFALL).
Barrett Meeks sees a celestial light in the sky above Central Park and has a quasi-religious experience he knows means something big. Meanwhile, Barrett's brother Tyler is struggling to write a song for his dying fiancée, Beth.
“Tender, funny, and sorrowful, Cunningham’s beautiful novel is as radiant and shimmering as Barrett’s mysterious light in the sky, gently illuminating the gossamer web of memories, feelings, and hopes that mysteriously connect us to each other as the planet spins its way round and round the sun.” — Booklist, starred review
“In concise yet descriptive language, Cunningham weaves the secret of transcendence through the mundane occurrences of everyday life. Those who enjoyed his Pulitzer Prize-winning THE HOURS will be pleased to see similar themes emerging in his newest novel.” — Library Journal, starred review
Get whitelisted and download the e-galley.
Read it and loved it? It's not too late to nominate it for the May LibraryReads list! (nominations are due April 1)
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Maximum Shelf: THE PLOVER
“I must have wanted to write a sea novel for years—I just adored Stevenson and Kipling and Conrad and Jack London and voyage-logs and sea stories and KON-TIKI as a boy.”
— Brian Doyle on his inspiration for THE PLOVER
We're very excited about THE PLOVER by Brian Doyle, which continues the story of Declan O Donnell from one of Doyle's previous novels, MINK RIVER. It's an April Indie Next pick, and is this week's Maximum Shelf Awareness feature (we're pretty crazy about it, too).
“THE PLOVER is a fun ride with meaning and heart, lots of it, as well as jokes, scares, storms at sea, surprises, magic, absurdity—and humanity, exuberant joyful humanity.” — Shelf Awareness
See the full summary, review and interview with Brian Doyle on Shelf-Awareness.com.
Get whitelisted and download your e-galley on Edelweiss.
Praise for THE PLOVER:
“Doyle 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
“In near stream of consciousness, wave upon wave of words tumbles out in long, beautifully rendered, description-packed sentences... A rare and unusual book and a brilliant, mystical exploration of the human spirit.”
— Kirkus Reviews, starred review
“A jack of all literary trades, Doyle augments his impressive oeuvre with this whimsical dreamscape of a nautical adventure about desolation and friendship. A joyous journey of discovery.” — Booklist
“Every sentence Doyle writes about the ocean smacks of authenticity...”
— Publishers Weekly
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Sneak Peek: April 2014 Indie Next list
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 PLOVER by 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
See the full April 2014 Indie Next List here.
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Friday Reads (3/7/14 Edition)
Today's #FridayReads are two fabulous new debuts we're loving:
Talia is totally impressed with THE HOLLOW GROUND by Natalie S. Harnett
“We walk on fire or air, so Daddy liked to say. Basement floors too hot to touch. Steaming green lawns in the dead of winter. Sinkholes, quick and sudden, plunging open at your feet.”
Inspired by real-life events in now-infamous Centralia and the equally devastated town of Carbondale, PA, THE HOLLOW GROUND tells the coming-of-age story of Brigid Howley, a young girl struggling to keep her family together as underground mine fires force her family to move around—not to mention the family "curse" laid upon them generations earlier. When Brigid makes a grisly discovery in a long-abandoned bootleg mine shaft, secrets from decades past threaten to prove just as dangerous to the Howleys as the burning, hollow ground beneath their feet.
“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
E-galley available for download
Anne is still enraptured after reading THE SPARK AND THE DRIVE by Wayne Harrison
Harrison is an award-winning writer of short fiction, who also worked for six years as an auto mechanic—an experience that's clear in his devastatingly powerful first novel of hero-worship, first love, and betrayal.
Justin Bailey is an out of place seventeen-year-old when he finds comfort and companionship in the shop of legendary muscle car mechanic Nick Campbell and Nick's home with his captivating wife Mary Ann. But when Nick and Mary Ann’s lives are struck by tragedy, Justin’s own world is upended. Suddenly Nick, once celebrated for his mechanical genius, has lost his touch. Mary Ann, once tender and compassionate to her husband, has turned distant. As Justin tries to prop up his suffering mentor, he finds himself drawn toward the man’s grieving wife. Torn apart by feelings of betrayal, Justin must choose between the man he admires more than his own father and the woman he loves.
“There's nothing I enjoy more than entering a fictional world over which an author demonstrates complete mastery. That's exactly what Wayne Harrison offers his lucky readers in THE SPARK AND THE DRIVE.” — Richard Russo, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of EMPIRE FALLS
“This novel vividly renders the cult-like world of muscle car enthusiasts, but the author's ultimate concerns are the sparks and misfires of the human heart. Wayne Harrison is an exciting new voice in American fiction.” — Ron Rash, New York Times bestselling author of THE COVE
E-galley available for download
What are you reading this week? Share your #FridayReads with us @MacmillanLib.
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For Your Consideration: May LibraryReads titles
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 AEMILIA by 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 CITY by 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 CHILDREN by 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
For more May LibraryReads title suggestions, view our collection on Edelweiss. Happy reading and happy nominating!
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Happy #BookBday (3/4/14 Edition)
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 FOR by 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
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Happy #BookBday (2/25/14 Edition)
Just like our furry friend says, today we wish a happy #BookBday to:
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
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Macmillan Library @ PLA 2014 (booth 1852)
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
Join 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!)
E-galley available on Edelweiss
Best in Debut Authors panel
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.
In-booth signing by Marci Jefferson, author of GIRL ON THE GOLDEN COIN
Thursday, March 13th
1:30-3:30pm
Indianapolis Convention Center | Booth #1852
Meet Marci Jefferson and get a signed copy of her “intoxicating first novel” (Publishers Weekly, starred review), GIRL ON THE GOLDEN COIN.
E-galley available on Edelweiss
AAP/SLJ Children's Book and Author Breakfast
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.
Details and RSVP information here.
Mystery Authors Revealed panel
Friday, 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).
Details and RSVP information here.
E-galley available on Edelweiss
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.
Coming to PLA? Yay!
There's SO much cool stuff happening: a BEFORE I DIE wall (check out Anne's suggestion to get inspired), the MakerSpace Lab with a 3D printer and robot petting zoo, and the first-ever LibraryBox Scavenger Hunt! Make sure you get out and play, too. Check out where to go and what to eat in Indy. See you soon!
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