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How Do You Get to Carnegie Hall? Look Out the Window!
When we left off last week, we were gearing up for our office move. On Monday night, everything was disassembled and trucked over by the movers one block to the east and two blocks to the south. Then my husband, Tom, Greg and I whipped into reassembly mode; Tom thinks he has set a record for desk assembly! A few tweaks on Tuesday, a lot of unpacking, and everything was in its place for the staff to return on Wednesday. Yesterday, Annie, one of our terrific summer interns, did a brilliant job of organizing my Bookreporter.com Bets On books, going back to my 2009 selections, on my shelves, before she headed out on a backpacking trip. This is one of the things I would vow to do and never get around to it, so I am grateful to her for doing it. The “before” picture is above!
As promised, you can see the new view from my office window above, as photographed by Greg. Carnegie Hall is on the right just a block away. I love this neighborhood as it has some classic buildings. I am tired of all the new towering glass construction in the city; our view in the old space changed so much over the last 21 years, with much of it blocked by new behemoth buildings. Gene Carr, our good friend from Patron Technology, stopped by as we were moving in. We already are making friends with others on the floor, just as we did in our other space, and we are discovering new lunch places. It’s amusing that while these two offices are so close, the block-over geographic change has us exploring a new neighborhood.
While the week was hectic, I still grabbed reading time. I finished THE BEST KIND OF PEOPLE by Zoe Whittall, which will be in stores on September 19th. At ThrillerFest, I met the sister writing duo who write under the pen name Liv Constantine. Their thriller, THE LAST MRS. PARRISH (releasing October 17th), has been one great romp of a read thus far. In it, Amber Patterson is fed up with her life. She wants a life of money and power, and has set her eyes on how to get what blond-haired, blue-eyed Daphne Parrish has with her husband, Jackson. Amber is making her way into Daphne’s world, insinuating herself into her life. Whether she succeeds in her plan to overtake Daphne’s world is still to be seen. It’s juicy and fun, and I look forward to getting back to it tonight.
Now to this week’s update...
Ruth Ware follows up her blockbuster thrillers IN A DARK, DARK WOOD and THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10 with her third novel of psychological suspense, THE LYING GAME. Three women in and around London receive a text they had been dreading for years --- “I need you” --- from Kate, the fourth member of their formerly inseparable clique. The four girls were best friends at their boarding school and were infamous for playing the Lying Game, telling lies to both students and faculty. But as a result of their little game, they were all expelled in their final year of school under mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of the school’s art teacher (who also happens to be Kate’s father).
According to reviewer Roz Shea, “This gripping novel surpasses even Ware’s prior outings, not only in suspense but in the powerful tug of a parent’s devotion, that of Kate’s late father, and Isa and Fatima’s children. THE LYING GAME will haunt you for a long time to come.” We also have a Q&A with Ruth, which you can see here. I loved this book, and it will be a Bets On selection next week. I enjoyed interviewing Ruth before IN A DARK, DARK WOOD came out; she’s such a delight! I love seeing all of her success.
THE LYING GAME is one of our current Word of Mouth prizes; the other is MRS. FLETCHER by Tom Perrotta, which is witty and fun and made me think of Mrs. Robinson. Let us know by Friday, August 4th at noon ET what books you’ve read, and you’ll have a chance to win both novels.
Linda Fairstein is back with a new Alexandra Cooper thriller, DEADFALL, and this time her New York City setting is the Wildlife Conservation Society, which works to preserve and protect the animal kingdom both within and beyond the borders of the five boroughs. But dangerous creatures don't always have claws and fangs, as Assistant DA Alex Cooper and NYPD detectives Mike Chapman and Mercer Wallace know all too well. Thus, in the aftermath of the shocking assassination of an iconic public figure --- who Alex has worked with for years --- the three must unravel the motive behind the shooting to discover who is the bigger snake: the killer or the victim.
Roz Shea has this to say in her review: “As in all good detective novels, there is more than chase and capture, cars and guns. Fairstein offers the rich tapestry of setting and the psychology behind the crime. As the former Chief of the Sex Crimes Unit of the DA’s office in New York City, and a longtime history buff, she brings to her books a level of authenticity like few other authors.”
Our Suspense/Thriller Author Spotlight of Michelle Richmond and her new novel, THE MARRIAGE PACT, enters its final week. This intense and shocking psychological thriller, which will be a Bets On pick next week, asks: How far would you go to protect your marriage? Joe Hartlaub has our review and says that the book “doubles down on the promise of Richmond’s previous works in a story that is by turns cautionary, parabolic and metaphoric.” He goes on to say, “After reading THE MARRIAGE PACT, you may not be inclined to sign anything without a lot of thought, and without reading the fine print. All of it.” We also have an interview that Joe conducted with Michelle that you can check out here.
Yesterday I popped by the Random House Open House for the session where Michelle was speaking; I had met her quickly at ThrillerFest. She told a fun story about buying a big white board to plot out her book. As she was scheming ideas, her young son came in and drew a picture on the white board, which she could not bear to erase. There went plotting on the white board, and instead she decided to write by the seat of her pants. In THE MARRIAGE PACT, she wanted to look at a couple who is very much in love and conquers adversity together. I am looking forward to seeing what she writes next. Also, on the panel with her was Janelle Brown, the author of WATCH ME DISAPPEAR. She said that as she was writing, her husband checked in to be sure she was not writing something biographical! Given our hectic move schedule, I could not attend the entire Open House. I look forward to the next Open House, which will be held in November.
Other books we’re reviewing this week include PARADISE VALLEY, C. J. Box’s third novel to feature Investigator Cassie Dewell, who must take down a killer who is as ruthless as he is cunning; AMANDA WAKES UP, a debut novel from CNN’s Alisyn Camerota about a young reporter who lands a plum job at a big-time cable news station and finds her ambitions and her love life turned upside down; and FINAL GIRLS by Riley Sager, which Stephen King has proclaimed to be “[t]he first great thriller of 2017… If you liked GONE GIRL, you’ll like this.”
There’s still time to enter our special contest for LIE TO ME, the highly anticipated new novel from J.T. Ellison that the publisher describes as a “stunning page-turner about the disintegration of a marriage as grief, jealousy, betrayal and murder destroy the façade of the perfect literary couple.” We’ll be awarding 25 readers an advance copy of the book, and then asking them to submit their feedback on it. To enter, please fill out this form by Thursday, August 3rd at noon ET.
Lori Foster’s new romance novel, WORTH THE WAIT, is the latest title in our New Release Spotlight. Single dad Hogan Guthrie is getting his life back on track and working at a local diner. He and restaurant owner Violet Shaw constantly butt heads, but one night changes everything between them. Nathan Hawley, a former SWAT team member, is now a sheriff, but a gorgeous new neighbor is shaking up his orderly life. Nathan believes there's more to Brooklin Sweet than meets the eye, and although she’s reluctant to get involved with him, he just can't walk away. Helping her come to terms with her past might pave the way to the future they both secretly long for.
My two latest Bets On picks are THE BREAKDOWN by B.A. Paris, which we reviewed last week, and the Hamptons Murder Mystery series by Carrie Doyle, which thus far consists of three books: DEATH ON WINDMILL WAY, DEATH ON LILY POND LANE and DEATH ON WEST END ROAD. Click here for my commentary on THE BREAKDOWN and here to see why I’m betting you’ll love the Hamptons Murder mysteries.
You’ll have the opportunity to win a copy of DEATH ON WINDMILL WAY as it’s one of our Summer Reading prize books for next week; the others are the 20th Anniversary Edition of ONE THOUSAND WHITE WOMEN: The Journals of May Dodd by Jim Fergus (the sequel, THE VENGEANCE OF MOTHERS: The Journals of Margaret Kelly & Molly McGill, is coming on September 12th) and THE WALLS by Hollie Overton. The first contest of the week goes live on Tuesday, August 1st at noon ET. This week we gave away ANOTHER BROOKLYN by Jacqueline Woodson, FATAL THREAT: A Fatal Series Novel by Marie Force, and one of my all-time favorite books, ORDINARY GRACE by William Kent Krueger.
Our poll continues to ask which television shows of the 20 we’ve listed do you watch. You clearly like this poll. Not answered yet? Then click here to let us know your favorites!
Time is running out to enter this month’s Sounding Off on Audio contest, where we’re giving away the audio versions of Daniel Silva's HOUSE OF SPIES, performed by George Guidall, and Adriana Trigiani's KISS CARLO, performed by Edoardo Ballerini. Submit your comments about the audiobooks you’ve listened to, and you’ll be in the running to win both audio titles. Be sure to enter before Tuesday at noon ET.
The longlist for this year’s Man Booker Prize has been announced. Click here to see these 13 books, referred to as the “Man Booker Dozen.” The shortlist of six books will be announced on September 13th, followed by the announcement of the winner on October 17th.
News & Pop Culture
Reader Mail
Nancy wrote this about our office move, and she is so right: “Just start to immediately make memories in your new space...it'll be like home in no time at all!”
Mary Lou wrote, referencing the Nancy Pearl piece in last week’s newsletter and my fight with Japanese beetles, “My kids and I started the rule of 50 when they were in high school, and it has been my rule of thumb for books ever since. They expanded the concept to movies from Netflix and have the rule of 10 with respect to those --- if a movie doesn’t grab them within 10 minutes, the relationship is over! As for Japanese beetles, I am not a gardener and have a black thumb. However, I clearly remember the Japanese beetle battle my mom had every summer. We lived in the city, but rented a house in the 'country' in Huntington in the summer, back when there was still country in that part of Long Island. (This was in the early to mid-1950s.)…my mom fought with those darn beetles every summer. I remember the lattice work effect of those voracious critters to this day.” There are fewer beetles at our house these days, which makes me happy.
Lory wrote, “So excited to hear about George R. R. Martin's upcoming appearance [at ThrillerFest]. GOT books are amazing.”
Author Male or Female, Does It Matter?: Take a look at this piece here.
Dunkirk: Nicole saw this last weekend and raved about it. For those who have seen the film and want to fill in some of the details, think about reading DUNKIRK: The History Behind the Major Motion Picture by internationally bestselling author Joshua Levine. As The New York Times pointed out, “Mr. Nolan largely avoids the bigger historical picture” and “instead narrows in on a handful of men.” Levine’s DUNKIRK acts as “a good resource in filling in those gaps” (The Federalist), providing an enlightening history of this momentous rescue in ways the movie does not.
John Lewis Leads a March at San Diego Comic Con: For a second year, John Lewis led a march of children at this convention.
"Odd Mom Out": It’s back on Bravo and is such fun.
Cory and Greg are both going camping for the weekend, on separate trips. They got this love of sleeping outdoors from their father as my idea of camping is Best Western. I have not weeded or cleared the garden in a big way this summer; blame bad weather at the start of the summer, then the extreme heat and the endless details of the move...and all of a sudden, it’s almost August. Tom and I will be weeding tomorrow when we are not going through the equipment and files I brought home from the office. With the office move, I managed to bring MANY boxes home that I need to get through. My reasoning was that I would prefer to sit on the couch and do this instead of doing it at the office. In theory, that sounded like such a brilliant idea. Actually on the couch, I like to read books or watch television!
My mother-in-law and my sister-in-law, Kate, are headed here on Sunday. I am making notes on what to make for a menu. I picked up some rhubarb last week for a strawberry rhubarb pie and also got the special cherries to make another triple cherry pie. I am going to reach out to see which they want me to make for them. The boys will be back from camping to join us!
On Thursday night at 6:30, I will be at the Brielle Public Library in Brielle, New Jersey, where Patti Callahan Henry will be discussing her latest book, THE BOOKSHOP AT WATER'S END, and doing a Q&A/signing. Hope to see some of you there!
Read on, and have a great week.
Carol Fitzgerald (Carol@bookreporter.com)
P.S. For those of you who are doing online shopping, if you use the store links below, Bookreporter.com gets a small affiliate fee on your purchases. We would appreciate your considering this!
An Interview with Ruth Ware,
Author of THE LYING GAME
A Bookreporter.com Bets On Title
Ruth Ware follows up her New York Times bestsellers IN A DARK, DARK WOOD and THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10 with her third psychological thriller, THE LYING GAME. Three women receive a text from the fourth member of their former clique that reads, simply, “I need you” --- and they fear their lives will never be the same. In this interview, Ware explains what compelled her to write this chilling, twisty novel; her inspiration for Salten, the boarding school that the four main characters attended and where the infamous Lying Game originated; and the difficulties of switching between time periods during the writing process. She also reveals her favorite scenes from THE LYING GAME, offers advice for aspiring writers, and talks about the most rewarding part of publishing a book.
THE LYING GAME by Ruth Ware (Psychological Thriller)
Audiobook available, read by Imogen Church
Three women in and around London --- Fatima, Thea and Isabel --- receive the text they had always hoped would NEVER come, from the fourth in their formerly inseparable clique, Kate, that says only, “I need you.” The four girls were best friends at Salten, a second-rate boarding school, and were notorious for playing the Lying Game, telling lies at every turn to both fellow boarders and faculty. But their little game had consequences, and the girls were all expelled in their final year of school under mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of the school’s eccentric art teacher, Ambrose (who also happens to be Kate’s father). Reviewed by Roz Shea.
THE LYING GAME will be a Bookreporter.com Bets On pick. You can read Carol's commentary in next week's newsletter.
- Click here to read more about the book.
- Click here to read a review.
Click here to read the interview.
Featured Review: DEADFALL by Linda Fairstein
DEADFALL by Linda Fairstein (Mystery/Thriller)
Audiobook available, read by Barbara Rosenblat
A wild heart beats within New York City. Amid concrete and skyscrapers, the Wildlife Conservation Society works to preserve and protect the animal kingdom both within and beyond the borders of the five boroughs. But dangerous creatures don't always have claws and fangs, as Assistant DA Alexandra Cooper and NYPD detectives Mike Chapman and Mercer Wallace know all too well. Predators lurk close to home, and in the aftermath of the shocking assassination of an iconic public figure --- someone Alex has worked with for years --- the trio must unravel the motive behind the shooting to discover who is the bigger snake: the killer or the victim. Reviewed by Roz Shea.
- Click here to read more about the book.
Click here to read the review.
Featured Review: PARADISE VALLEY by C. J. Box
PARADISE VALLEY by C. J. Box (Mystery/Thriller)
Audiobook available, read by Christina Delaine
For three years, Investigator Cassie Dewell has been on the hunt for a serial killer known as the Lizard King, whose hunting grounds are the highways and truck stops where runaways and prostitutes are most likely to vanish. Working for the Bakken County, North Dakota sheriff's department, Cassie has lured him and his truck to a depot. But her plan goes horribly wrong, and consequently she loses her job. At the same time, Kyle Westergaard, a troubled kid whom Cassie has taken under her wing, has disappeared after telling people that he’s going off on a long-planned adventure. Kyle's grandmother begs Cassie to find him, and Cassie agrees --- all the while hunting the truck driver. Reviewed by Joe Hartlaub.
- Click here to read more about the book.
Click here to read the review.
Bookreporter.com Talks to Michelle Richmond,
Author of THE MARRIAGE PACT
A Suspense/Thriller Author Spotlight Title
New York Times bestselling author Michelle Richmond’s latest novel, THE MARRIAGE PACT, is an intense and shocking tale that asks: How far would you go to protect your marriage? In this interview, conducted by Bookreporter.com’s Joe Hartlaub, Richmond explains why she wrote the book, which was partly inspired by her longstanding fascination with cult-like organizations that lure people in with the promise of helping them to live fuller, happier lives and be better versions of themselves, and how she came up with the four rules that form the bedrock of The Pact. She also talks about the important role that Leonard Cohen and his music played in the novel, how her books (including this one) cross genres, her decision to explore the world of writing at such a young age, and the single best action she took on her road to success.
THE MARRIAGE PACT by Michelle Richmond (Psychological Thriller)
Audiobook available, read by Tom Taylorson
Newlyweds Alice and Jake are a picture-perfect couple, and their life together holds endless possibilities. After receiving an enticing wedding gift from one of Alice’s prominent clients, they decide to join an exclusive and mysterious group known only as The Pact. The goal of The Pact seems simple: to keep marriages happy and intact. But the young lovers will soon discover that for adherents to The Pact, membership, like marriage, is for life. And The Pact will go to any lengths to enforce that rule. For Jake and Alice, the marriage of their dreams is about to become their worst nightmare. Reviewed by Joe Hartlaub.
THE MARRIAGE PACT will be a Bookreporter.com Bets On pick. You can read Carol's commentary in next week's newsletter.
- Click here to read more about the book.
- Click here to read a review.
- Click here to read an excerpt.
- Click here to read Michelle Richmond’s bio.
- Visit Michelle Richmond’s website and Instagram.
- Connect with Michelle Richmond on Facebook and Twitter.
- Click here to see the 25 winners selected to read and comment on the book.
- Click here to read more in our Suspense/Thriller Author Spotlight
Click here to read the interview.
Special Contest: Enter to Win a Copy of LIE TO ME
by J.T. Ellison and Share Your Comments on It
We have 25 copies of LIE TO ME by J.T. Ellison --- a fast-paced psychological thriller about the disintegration of a marriage as grief, jealousy, betrayal and murder destroy the façade of the perfect literary couple --- to give away to readers who would like to preview the book, which releases on September 5th, and share their comments on it. To enter, please fill out this form by Thursday, August 3rd at noon ET.
LIE TO ME by J.T. Ellison (Psychological Thriller)
Sutton and Ethan Montclair's idyllic life is not as it appears. They seem made for each other, but the truth is ugly. Consumed by professional and personal betrayals and financial woes, the two both love and hate each other. As tensions mount, Sutton disappears, leaving behind a note saying not to look for her.
Ethan finds himself the target of vicious gossip as friends, family and the media speculate on what really happened to Sutton Montclair. As the police investigate, the lies the couple have been spinning for years quickly unravel. Is Ethan a killer? Is he being set up? Did Sutton hate him enough to kill the child she never wanted and then herself? The path to the answers is full of twists that will leave the reader breathless.
- Click here to read an excerpt.
- Visit J.T. Ellison's website, blog, Instagram, Pinterest and Flickr.
- Connect with J.T. Ellison on Facebook and Twitter.
Click here to enter the contest.
New Release Spotlight: WORTH THE WAIT by Lori Foster
WORTH THE WAIT by Lori Foster (Romance)
Single dad Hogan Guthrie is getting his life back on track, and working as the "barbecue master" at a local diner is just a temporary detour. He and restaurant owner Violet Shaw constantly butt heads…until one night they end up mingling other parts instead. Hogan thought he had the recipe for happiness all figured out. But loyal, carefree Violet is daring him to trust his impulses…and see just how sweet small-town living --- and loving --- can be.
Nathan Hawley traded his SWAT team credentials for a sheriff's badge, but a gorgeous new neighbor is shaking up his orderly life. Nathan has a hunch there's more to Brooklin Sweet than meets the eye --- but given her caution about getting involved, he has his work cut out for him. Still, there's something about the elusive beauty Nathan can't walk away from --- and helping her come to terms with her past might pave the way to the future they both secretly long for.
- Click here to read an excerpt.
- Click here to read Lori Foster's bio.
- Visit Lori Foster's website and Pinterest.
- Connect with Lori Foster on Facebook and Twitter.
Click here to read more in our New Release Spotlight.
Bookreporter.com Bets On:
THE BREAKDOWN by B.A. Paris
THE BREAKDOWN by B.A. Paris (Psychological Thriller)
“Don’t” is a powerful word. For Cass Anderson, “don’t” is what her husband, Matthew, says about her taking a shortcut on a road through the woods on a rainy, stormy night. But alas, Cass makes the turn anyway. She passes a car with a woman sitting inside, but keeping in mind her husband’s words about the dangers of being out there in the rain, she hesitates to stop to help.
The following morning, Cass learns that a woman named Jane Walters was killed in those woods, and she was sitting in that car. She is torn up by what happened. Did her not stopping cause this murder? At the same time, Cass finds her memory slipping. Her mother died of Alzheimer’s at a young age, and she fears this may be her fate as well. Cass is safe, but there is a keen sense that someone is watching her, and it's unraveling her. What’s going on?
While there is lots of repetition before the reveal, I was engaged and read THE BREAKDOWN in less than a day. For those who shied away from the violence in B.A. Paris’ debut, BEHIND CLOSED DOORS, note that THE BREAKDOWN spares readers from physical violence, though there is lots of mind-bending drama.
- Click here to read more about the book.
- Click here to read a review.
- Click here to read an excerpt.
Bookreporter.com Bets On:
The Hamptons Murder Mystery Series by Carrie Doyle
The Hamptons Murder Mystery Series by Carrie Doyle (Mystery)
There’s something fun about discovering a series that you love and just binging your way through it. That is exactly what I did with Carrie Doyle’s Hamptons Murder Mystery series. The books are fun reading with a great cast of characters that includes her protagonist, Antonia Bingham, who is both an innkeeper and a chef. Her storylines weave in great background on the history of the Hamptons, as well as some mouth-watering food descriptions. Carrie worked for Ina Garten when she owned and ran The Barefoot Contessa in the Hamptons, so she writes about food with great authority. She also has been a summer and weekend resident of East Hampton for decades, so she knows the lay of the land. Armchair vacation travel with a mystery; I love it.
I started with the first book, DEATH ON WINDMILL WAY, though they clearly can be read in any order as Carrie writes a very strong backstory. Here Antonia has just bought the inn and has learned that there is a history of killing the past proprietors, which puts her on edge as she does not want to become the next victim. On the case with her is Joseph Fowler, a 60-something widower who is another amateur sleuth. Since Antonia is new to innkeeping, we get a birds’-eye view of just what’s entailed in an operation like this. Lots of great details on decorating and mouth-watering dining are part of the story as well.
In DEATH ON LILY POND LANE, it is spring in the Hamptons. Antonia is now working a side business as an estate manager to earn some extra money in the low season, as well as running the inn. This gives her access to some stunning homes and wealthy homeowners. I love design and architecture details as well as mysteries --- house porn as I call it --- and here you will be inspired to redecorate, or at least rearrange, as you read. Oh, for the mystery, Antonia finds a dead body at one of the homes and is then on the case of solving the murder. It’s brisk and fun. Yes, murder and mystery is fun!
DEATH ON WEST END ROAD is set during the summer months when the town is buzzing in high season. Antonia here takes on a cold case, one where Susie Whitaker was brutally murdered in 1990 on a tennis court in the poshest part of town. Who’s hired Antonia? The prime suspect, a wealthy heiress, who is part of a powerful family. The stress has Antonia cooking and baking. The latter inspired me to bake savory muffins --- something I had not thought about making before. I used Jiffy Cornbread Mix and added fresh corn, jalapenos, cheese, Indian spice-infused honey and sage.
I dare you to just read one. The nicest part is you don’t have to. You can line them up and binge read --- and enjoy! Upon finishing them, I wrote Carrie to ask when the next will be published. Stay tuned for more on that!
- Read more about DEATH ON WINDMILL WAY, DEATH ON LILY POND LANE and DEATH ON WEST END ROAD.
Bookreporter.com's Summer Reading
Contests and Feature
Summer is here! At Bookreporter.com, this means it's time for us to share some great summer book picks with our Summer Reading Contests and Feature. We are hosting a series of 24-hour contests for these titles on select days through August 24th, so you will have to check the site each day to see the featured prize book and enter to win. We also are sending a special newsletter to announce the day's title, which you can sign up for here.
Our next prize book will be announced on Tuesday, August 1st at noon ET.
This year's featured titles include:
See the prize books that were awarded in May, June and July
and that will be awarded in August.
Click here to read all the contest details.
FINAL GIRLS by Riley Sager (Psychological Thriller)
Audiobook available, read by Erin Bennett and Hillary Huber
Ten years ago, college student Quincy Carpenter went on vacation with five friends and came back alone, the only survivor of a massacre. In an instant, she became a member of a group of similar survivors known in the press as the Final Girls --- which includes Lisa, who lost nine sorority sisters to a college dropout's knife, and Sam, who went up against the Sack Man during her shift at the Nightlight Inn. But when Lisa is found dead in her bathtub with her wrists slit, Sam appears on Quincy's doorstep. She seems intent on making Quincy relive the past, with increasingly dire consequences, all of which makes Quincy question why Sam is really seeking her out. Reviewed by Ray Palen.
AMANDA WAKES UP by Alisyn Camerota (Fiction)
Audiobook available, read by Alisyn Camerota and Lu Hanessian
When Amanda Gallo lands the job of her dreams at FAIR News --- the coveted morning anchor slot --- she’s finally made it. “Amanda Wakes Up” takes off, but she soon finds her journalistic ideals shredded as she struggles to keep up with the issues in a ratings-crazed madhouse. As the news heats up in a hotly contested election season and a wild-card candidate, former Hollywood actor Victor Fluke, appears on the scene, Amanda’s pressure-cooker job gets hotter as her personal life unravels. Walking a knife’s edge between ambition and survival, and about to break the biggest story of her career, Amanda must decide what she’s willing to give up to get ahead --- and what she needs to hold on to in order to save herself. Reviewed by Megan Elliott.
GATHER THE DAUGHTERS by Jennie Melamed (Dystopian Fiction)
Audiobook available, read by Laurence Bouvard
Years ago, just before the country was incinerated to wasteland, 10 men and their families colonized an island off the coast. They built a radical society of ancestor worship, controlled breeding, and the strict rationing of knowledge and history. Only the Wanderers --- chosen male descendants of the original 10 --- are allowed to cross to the wastelands. The daughters of these men are wives-in-training. At the first sign of puberty, they face their Summer of Fruition, a ritualistic season that drags them from adolescence to matrimony. At the end of one summer, little Caitlin Jacob sees something so horrifying, so contradictory to the laws of the island, that she must share it with the others. Reviewed by Sarah Rachel Egelman.
MADE FOR LOVE by Alissa Nutting (Fiction)
Audiobook available, performed by Suzanne Elise Freeman
Hazel has moved into a trailer park of senior citizens after running out on her marriage to Byron Gogol. For over a decade, Hazel put up with being veritably quarantined by Byron in the family compound, her every movement and vital sign tracked. But when he demands to wirelessly connect the two of them via brain chips in a first-ever human “mind-meld,” Hazel decides what was once merely irritating has become unbearable. As she tries to carve out a new life for herself, Byron is using the most sophisticated tools at his disposal to find her and bring her home. Hazel is forced to take drastic measures in order to find a home of her own and free herself from Byron’s virtual clutches once and for all. Reviewed by Harvey Freedenberg.
NO SURRENDER: Faith, Family, and Finding Your Way by Patrick Bisher with Jon Land (Memoir)
Patrick Bisher’s career as a Navy SEAL should have ended after a parachuting accident nearly crippled him. But overcoming adversity, even an injury as serious as a broken hip, was nothing new for him. He'd spent a portion of his childhood in leg braces. Doctors told him he’d never walk again thanks to a degenerative hip condition. He wasn’t about to give up then, any more than he was in the wake of that parachute training accident. Instead, he went on to serve in combat as a member of SEAL Team Seven, seeing action in Iraq and ultimately winning the Army Commendations Medal, among other awards. Now Patrick wants to take the lessons he learned on and off the battlefield and apply them to everyday life. He offers inspiration to all who've faced the kind of adversity he has. Reviewed by Ray Palen.
THE GODDESSES by Swan Huntley (Psychological Suspense)
Audiobook available, read by Hillary Huber
When Nancy and her family arrive in Kona, Hawaii, they are desperate for a fresh start. Nancy's husband has cheated on her; they sleep in separate bedrooms and their twin sons have been acting out, setting off illegal fireworks. But Nancy resolves to make a happy life for herself. She starts taking a yoga class, where she meets Ana, the charismatic teacher. They are soon spending all their time together, sharing dinners and relaxing in Ana's hot tub. As Nancy grows closer and closer to Ana --- skipping family dinners and leaving the twins to their own devices --- she feels a happiness and understanding unlike anything she's ever experienced, and she knows that she will do anything Ana asks of her. Reviewed by Norah Piehl.
THE SECRET DIARY OF HENDRIK GROEN written by Hendrik Groen, translated by Hester Velmans (Fiction)
Audiobook available, read by Sir Derek Jacobi
Hendrik Groen may be old, but he is far from dead and isn't planning to be buried any time soon. Granted, his daily strolls are getting shorter because his legs are no longer willing and he has to visit his doctor more than he'd like. But surely there is more to life at his age than weak tea and potted geraniums. Hendrik sets out to write an exposé: a year in the life of his care home in Amsterdam, revealing all its ups and downs. And when Eefje moves in --- the woman Hendrik has always longed for --- he polishes his shoes (and his teeth), grooms what's left of his hair, and attempts to make something of the life he has left. Reviewed by Kate Ayers.
MADAME ZERO: 9 Stories by Sarah Hall (Fiction/Short Stories)
Audiobook available, performed by Billie Fulford-Brown
In this collection of nine works of short fiction, Sarah Hall uses her piercing insight to plumb the depth of the female experience and the human soul. A husband’s wife transforms into a vulpine in "Mrs. Fox," winner of the BBC Short Story Prize. In "Case Study 2,” a social worker struggles with a foster child raised in a commune. A new mother runs into an old lover in "Luxury Hour." In prose that is full of rich observations and striking clarity, Hall has composed nine wholly original pieces --- works of fiction that will resonate long after the final page is turned. Reviewed by Sarah Rachel Egelman.
THE ATLAS OF FORGOTTEN PLACES by Jenny D. Williams (Fiction)
After a long career as an aid worker, Sabine Hardt has retreated to her native Germany for a quieter life. But when her American niece Lily disappears while volunteering in Uganda, Sabine must return to places and memories she once thought buried in order to find her. In Uganda, Rose Akulu --- haunted by a troubled past with the Lord’s Resistance Army and a family torn apart by war --- is distressed when her lover Ocen vanishes without a trace. Side by side, Sabine and Rose must unravel the tangled threads that tie Lily and Ocen’s lives together --- ultimately discovering that the truth of their loved ones’ disappearance is inescapably entwined to the secrets the two women carry. Reviewed by Leah DeCesare.
THREE MINUTES by Anders Roslund and Börge Hellström (Thriller)
Presumed dead by the Stockholm police, master criminal and undercover informant Piet Hoffmann is now on the run from the Swedish authorities, living with his wife and two young sons under an assumed name in Cali, Colombia. Only Hoffmann's former police handler, Erik Wilson, knows where he is --- and that he has accepted two dangerous new jobs: one as a high-level enforcer for a Colombian cocaine cartel, and one as an infiltrator for the DEA, working to bring the cartel down. The FBI even lends credence to his cover story by adding Hoffmann's alias to the Most Wanted list. But when the Speaker of the House is kidnapped by the cartel during an official visit to Colombia, everything changes --- fast. Reviewed by Joe Hartlaub.
SUN AT MIDNIGHT by Rosie Thomas (Fiction)
Alice is a scientist who relies on method, precision and tangible proof. But when her relationship with Oxford artist Peter Brown collapses spectacularly, she is forced to use her skills to evaluate her own life for the first time. Alice accepts an invitation to travel to the southernmost point of the earth, Antarctica. Upon arrival, she is awestruck by the strangeness of a continent painted in shades of blue and white, lit by an unearthly permanent sunlight. And nothing has prepared her for the close confines of a small base shared with eight men and one other woman. It’s in these close quarters that she develops a strong attraction to a man shrouded in danger and mystery. Reviewed by Katherine B. Weissman.
Next Week’s Notables:
Noteworthy Books Releasing on August 1st
Below are some notable titles releasing on August 1st that we would like to make you aware of. We will have more on many of these books in the weeks to come. For a list of additional hardcovers and paperbacks releasing the week of July 31st, see our “On Sale This Week” newsletter here.
THE ADDRESS by Fiona Davis (Historical Fiction)
One hundred years apart, Sara Smythe and Bailey Camden are both tempted by and struggle against the golden excess of their respective ages. But a building with a history as rich as The Dakota’s can’t hold its secrets forever, and what Bailey discovers in its basement could turn everything she thought she knew about her grandfather, famed architect Theodore Camden --- and the woman who killed him --- on its head.
BIRDCAGE WALK by Helen Dunmore (Historical Thriller)
It is 1792, and Europe is seized by political turmoil and violence. Lizzie Fawkes has grown up in Radical circles where each step of the French Revolution is followed with eager idealism. But she has recently married John Diner Tredevant, a property developer who is heavily invested in Bristol’s housing boom. Soon his plans for a magnificent terrace built above the 200-foot drop of the Gorge come under threat.
CRIME SCENE by Jonathan Kellerman and Jesse Kellerman (Psychological Thriller)
Clay Edison is a former star athlete turned coroner’s investigator. It’s his job to care for the dead and the people they leave behind. It’s not his job to solve mysteries. But some cases --- and some people --- can’t be resisted. What he discovers will set him on a quest to overturn a hideous injustice, no matter the consequences.
MORNINGSTAR: Growing Up With Books by Ann Hood (Memoir/Essays)
Growing up in a household that didn’t foster a love of literature, Ann Hood still discovered the transformative power of books. She learned to channel her imagination, ambitions and curiosity by devouring ever-growing stacks. Here, Hood recollects how THE BELL JAR, MARJORIE MORNINGSTAR, THE HARRAD EXPERIMENT and THE OUTSIDERS influenced her teen psyche and introduced her to topics that could not be discussed at home.
MRS. FLETCHER by Tom Perrotta (Fiction)
A 46-year-old divorcee whose beloved only child has just left for college, Eve Fletcher is struggling to adjust to her empty nest when one night her phone lights up with a text message. Sent from an anonymous number, the mysterious sender tells Eve, “U R my MILF!” Meanwhile, Eve’s son Brendan discovers that his new campus isn’t nearly as welcoming to his hard-partying lifestyle as he had imagined.
NOTHING STAYS BURIED: A Monkeewrench Novel by PJ Tracy (Mystery/Thriller)
When Minneapolis homicide detectives Leo Magozzi and Gino Rolseth are called to a crime scene in a heavily wooded city park, everything about the setting is all too familiar. And when they discover a playing card on the victim's body, their worst fears are confirmed --- there’s a serial killer operating in the city for the first time in years.
ON HER MAJESTY'S FRIGHTFULLY SECRET SERVICE: A Royal Spyness Mystery by Rhys Bowen (Historical Mystery)
When royal sleuth Georgie Rannoch receives a letter from her dearest friend Belinda, who’s awaiting the birth of her illegitimate baby, she yearns to run to her side. If only she could find a way to get there! But then opportunity presents itself when her cousin the queen asks her to attend a house party. The Prince of Wales AND the dreadful Mrs. Simpson have been invited, and Her Majesty is anxious to thwart a possible secret wedding.
Click here to see the latest "On Sale This Week" newsletter.
Our Latest Poll: What TV Shows Are You Watching?
Which of the following television shows do you watch? Please check all that apply.
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“American Gods”
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“Billions”
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“Black-ish”
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“The Crown”
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“The Daily Show with Trevor Noah”
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“Dancing with the Stars”
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“Game of Thrones”
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“The Handmaid’s Tale”
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“House of Cards”
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“Jimmy Kimmel Live!”
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“The Late Late Show with James Corden”
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“Late Night with Seth Meyers”
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“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”
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“Modern Family”
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“Outlander”
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“Saturday Night Live”
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“Stranger Things”
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“This Is Us”
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“The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon”
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“The Voice”
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None of the above
Click here to vote in the poll by Friday, August 4th at noon ET.
Word of Mouth Contest: Tell Us What You're
Reading --- and You Can Win Two Books!
Tell us about the books you’ve finished reading with your comments and a rating of 1 to 5 stars. During the contest period from July 21st to August 4th at noon ET, three lucky readers each will be randomly chosen to win a copy of THE LYING GAME by Ruth Ware and MRS. FLETCHER by Tom Perrotta.
To make sure other readers will be able to find the books you write about, please include the full title and correct author names (your entry must include these to be eligible to win). For rules and guidelines, click here.
- To see reader comments from previous contest periods, click here.
Sounding Off on Audio Contest: Tell Us What You're Listening to --- and You Can Win Two Audiobooks!
Tell us about the audiobooks you’ve finished listening to with your comments and a rating of 1 to 5 stars for both the performance and the content. During the contest period from July 5th to August 1st at noon ET, two lucky readers each will be randomly chosen to win the audio versions of Daniel Silva's HOUSE OF SPIES, performed by George Guidall, and Adriana Trigiani's KISS CARLO, performed by Edoardo Ballerini.
To make sure other readers will be able to find the audiobook, please include the full title and correct author names (your entry must include these to be eligible to win). For complete rules and guidelines, click here.
- To see reader comments from previous contest periods, click here.
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