“The Ministry of Time is a rare story that mashes up favorite time-worn tropes — from Star Trek to spy thrillers to Victorian romances — in a crucible of colonialism and the pitfalls of diversity in a near-future London. Oh, and it’s sexy as hell,” said Amanda Qassar of Warwick’s in La Jolla, California.
“Percival Everett, deep into his brilliant career, adds another indelible novel into his vast canon. James reimagines an emblematic — and yes, problematic — American classic and asks about life, history, and our cultural psyche,” said Stephen Sparks of Point Reyes Books in Point Reyes Station, California.
“Luigi may have eight legs instead of four, may prefer webs over snuggling under blankets, and would surely rather eat a bug than play with a toy one. He may be a spider in body, but he’ll always be a kitten at heart. A super sweet, unique pet story,” said Angie Tally of The Country Bookshop in Southern Pines, North Carolina.
“Wandering Stars is an epic tale grounded in truth and elevated by Tommy Orange’s phenomenal storytelling. He brings a gruesome slice of US history to life and gives voice to a generation of Native people who live its legacy,” said Claire Benedict of Bear Pond Books in Montpelier, Vermont.
“Bride is the great start of a new paranormal world full of werewolves, vampires, and humans,” said Revati Kilaparti of Old Firehouse Books in Fort Collins, Colorado.
“A tender, romantic tale about living up to your family’s legacy and the crossroads of what’s expected of you and what your heart desires. Saft’s prose is utterly enchanting; you can’t help but melt into her luscious world. You will swoon!” said Joseline Diaz of Kepler’s Books in Menlo Park, California.
“The Fury is a perfectly paced, charming, devious mystery novel to fall in love with. On a small, private, Greek island, mythology, history, and personal baggage put our small cast to the test. Intense, captivating, and satisfying,” said Becky Doherty of Northshire Bookstore in Saratoga Springs, New York.
“Molly is back with another entertaining mystery to solve at the Regency Grand Hotel. This time, a famous author is under scrutiny, featuring a pack of rabid fans and a peek into Molly’s past,” said Jenny Stroyeck of The Homer Bookstore in Homer, Alaska.
“Ali Hazelwood’s young adult debut delivers an exciting ride of rediscovery and second chances,” said Kaylie Padgett of Women & Children First in Chicago, Illinois.
“Jesmyn Ward is one of the most important writers of our time. This may be her best to date. Heartbreaking and gorgeous, Annis carries us through her story of loss and brutal enslavement — a story of strength, love, enduring, and finding a way,” said Jeanne Costello of Maria’s Bookshop in Durango, Colorado.
