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The Women in Black by Madeleine St. John
Described by the New York Times as “a love letter to old-fashioned department stores,” and by author Hillary Mantel as “the book I most often give as a gift to cheer people up,” The Women in Black (2020) by Madeleine St. John explores the lives of five women who work in the Ladies’ Frocks department of a fictional high-end retail establishment, F.G. Goode, during the 1950s.
Anywhere You Run by Wanda Morris
I started reading the novel Anywhere You Run (2022) because I was soon to interview the author, Wanda Morris, for WPL’s Thriller Author Panel. I wanted to be prepared, of course, but by the end of the book I was far more than that.
Other Birds by Sarah Addison Allen
Sarah Addison Allen delivers again with her tale of found family entrenched in magical realism. Filled with memorable characters and a lush setting, this lovely and lyrical novel will draw readers in immediately.
Motherthing by Ainslie Hogarth
Motherthing is author Ainslie Hogarth's third novel, and it's about a married couple's descent into darkness after the main character's husband loses his mother. A great suggestion for people who love dark humor, unreliable narrators, and disturbing domestic horror. Deals with mental illness, family relationships, dysfunctional families, and death.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwabb
V.E. Schwab has written numerous novels for teens and younger folk, many of them best-sellers. But it is her latest novel, her first intended for adult readers, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, that has firmly established her as a writer to be watched.
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan
This novel may be short but it packs a punch. Set in rural Ireland in the 80s, Small Things Like These (2021) is an inspirational read about the struggles of the poor and working-class Irish.
The Way of Shadows by Brent Weeks
Need a well-written story full of secret plots, ancient magics, and scheming politicians while you wait for the next book in the A Song of Ice and Fire series? Or perhaps you just finished the Mistborn trilogy and crave another high adventure fantasy?
Thank You for Listening by Julia Whelan
You have to listen to this book. Written and narrated by professional audiobook narrator Julia Whelan, Thank You for Listening (2022) is best on audio for an immersive experience. Filled with witty banter and a variety of voices, this uplifting romantic comedy is sure to boost your mood.
Exit West
In an unnamed city, Nadia and Saeed meet and fall in love. As a civil war erupts around them, they flee their homeland. Author Mohsin Hamid uses doors as a way to transport people from one destination to the next, infusing the novel with a hint of magical realism. Exit West (2017) is a contemporary bittersweet love story and a war story from the refugee perspective.
Chobits Volume 1
Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro
I have never cared deeply or felt great compassion for a robot. Until now.