Indies Introduce Summer / Fall 2019 Titles

“I'm blown away by the fact that this stunning work is a debut effort. It's a sweeping history of our country and the traumas we have yet to fully heal from, spanning the American South in the 50s through the early of Obama's presidency. It's told through a series of narratives that connect unexpectedly and beautifully, exploring the many nuanced layers of the human condition with each emotional character arc. The writing is both powerful and restrained, one of sparse but evocative details that quietly crack your heart wide open when you least expect it. I've been thinking about this one for weeks now and suspect I will be for many more to come.”

“An absorbing narrative that alternates between the delights of falling in love and the excruciating grief of suddenly losing a spouse. Told in Carolina’s voice, the story tenderly and unsparingly conveys not only the intricate aspects of her romance with Aksel but also the many levels of mourning that came with finding herself widowed young and with a child and wondering if she might have contributed to her husband’s untimely passing. By shifting back and forth in time, the book gradually converges on a tragedy that’s already known, then extends toward an uncertain future filled with new love but also fresh questions.”

“This book, the story of gun violence on a university campus and its aftermath as told from the perspective of a student, the shooter, and a teacher, is truly remarkable. I could not put this book down. With some of the most breathtaking passages about love and loss that I have ever read, I will be thinking of Bloomland for a very long time.”

“Far more than an entertaining survey of needlework, this debut work from Clare Hunter weaves the history of the human race through its stitches. From the author’s early descriptions of the Bayeux tapestry to Mary, Queen of Scots to British soldiers and prisoners of war, it’s a story told in panels both large and small, but all utterly captivating. Do not miss this one.”

“All the Impossible Things touched my heart in the way that only truly fantastic middle-grade lit can. The struggles of a mother’s addiction and a daughter’s loyalty are tempered with love, friendship, and one cool tortoise. This is the perfect book.”

“How do love, family, friendship, and hope survive when life and nature are twisted beyond recognition, as bodies, trust, and bonds are repeatedly tested and torn? This story of girls locked in an ever-changing, ever-escalating battle to uncover the truth and survive the unimaginable thrums with power, fury, and an achingly beautiful tenderness. An absolute stunner.”

“Every so often, a book comes along that hits all of your favorite things and knocks it out of the park. For me, Shatter the Sky is that book. Dragons? It’s got ’em. Queer person-of-color protagonist? Check. A world reminiscent of Avatar: The Last Airbender? You got it! Wells delivers sharp, nuanced political commentary and a fast-paced plot full of intrigue and deception that will delight fantasy fans everywhere.”

“A fun, realistic pair of love stories that accurately address the challenges of meeting your parents’ expectations while going after what your heart wants. Twists, turns, and humor bring light to nuanced prejudices. A frank, funny read.”