“This holiday who-donut features little nods to all the festivals of the winter season, plus a full charcuterie of characters from Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast books past. Audiences will be wrapt as they attempt to solve the mystery of Agatha Crispy’s missing manuscript,” said Amanda Zarni of Book Ends Winchester in Winchester, MA.
“I'd follow R. F. Kuang anywhere — and that includes hell! Deep, dark, and atmospheric, Katabasis balances academia and danger perfectly, solidifying Kuang as an expert in the genre,” said Kassie King of The Novel Neighbor in Webster Groves, MO.
“One of the best novels, much less debut novels, that I’ve ever read. You’ll enjoy the best cry of your life,” said Randy Schiller of Left Bank Books in St. Louis, Missouri.
“Best of All Worlds is the book that I didn't know I needed right now. I’m still not sure how I walked away from this mind-bending and dystopian thriller full of hope. You will be DYING to talk to someone about it when you’re finished. Hit me up,” said Andrea King of Left Bank Books in St. Louis, Missouri.
“A fun, witty enemies-to-lovers romance that delivers plenty of banter, sizzling tension, and the right amount of angst. If you love a stubborn and slow burn romance, this one has exactly what you’re looking for,” said Chelsea Semonco of Four Seasons Books in Shepherdstown, West Virginia.
“Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil is V. E. Schwab’s literary follow up to the phenomenon that is The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue. This book is truly dripping in bloody soil and grows a dark flower with teeth,” said Kendra Burns of The Book Vine in Cherokee, Iowa.
“In a moment of grief and anger, Finn makes a big mistake. He starts to heal, grow and gain resilience with the help of nature, cookies, and the best-est dog. A beautiful story that will help middle grade kids work through big feelings,” said Nancy Baenen of Arcadia Books in Spring Green, Wisconsin.
“This coming-of-age story is funny, heartfelt, and wise. Four teens with fierce loyalty to one another bond over their unstable families and a painting done by one of their own. I could read this again and again,” said Beth Mynhier of Lake Forest Book Store in Lake Forest, Illinois.
“A slow walk through a fast-paced day leads to heartbreak, hope, determination and a sacrifice that readers will only find if they read to the end. Tilt is phenomenal and one of this year’s best page-turners,” said Desirae Wilkerson of Paper Boat Booksellers in Seattle, Washington.
“K. O'Neill’s new graphic novel is another winner. It speaks to anyone who has ever second-guessed themselves or lost who they are. Two young people, both uncertain in their way, manage to find the answers they seek with each other’s help,” said Amber Brown of Quail Ridge Books in Raleigh, North Carolina.
