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A Brilliant Week of Author Programs
When we left off last week, Husband Tom and I were heading out to hear Malcolm Gladwell's Opening Keynote at the Morristown Festival of Books.
Gladwell spoke about his latest book, THE AMERICAN WAY OF KILLING: The Invention of an Epidemic, to a sold-out audience. He noted how conversation with community group leaders and people in a community can help to dissuade gun violence, citing Baltimore as a city that has adopted these measures with a positive reaction. He endorsed the idea of more police, pointing out that most cities in Europe have police forces twice the size of ours. He also talked about how a homicide count does not exactly depict what violence has occurred in a city. For example, in a city like New York, a quick ambulance ride to a hospital can save your life. It's not the same in a place where a hospital is not convenient.
I felt it was a refreshing look at guns and gun violence. Then this week, the school shooter in Bend, Oregon, was killed by a man who was carrying a gun with a concealed gun permit --- which stopped more carnage at the school. Like I said, it's a multifaceted issue. I look forward to reading the book.
We met up with Nadia Hashimi on the way into the evening program. It was lovely to catch up with her as the following day our panels were scheduled at the same time. Her book, CITY OF WIDOWS, is a Bookreporter.com Bets On selection, and she has met virtually with my book group. I have interviewed her twice, but this was our first in-person meeting. I love moments like that. Sadly, we forgot to take a picture!
The Festival on Saturday once again attracted huge crowds. I was there with Editorial Director Tom, along with Francesca and my friend, Beverley. We got to say hello to readers and friends who attend the Festival every year. And yes, we handed out bookmarks!
Below are some photos from the three panels that I moderated and a few authors we met along the way!
My first panel featured Brisa Carleton (LAST CALL AT THE SAVOY)
and Rachel Beanland (THE HALF LIFE).
My second panel featured Robert Kolker (THE VANISHING FAMILY).
My third panel featured Mallory Kass (SAVE THE DATE) and Jenny Jackson (THE SHAMPOO EFFECT).
We attended a panel featuring Riley Sager (THE UNKNOWN) and Kate White (I CAME BACK FOR YOU). Beverley and I had worked with Kate at Mademoiselle magazine, so it was a reunion of sorts!
I met Kate Fox, author of SUCCUBUS. Kate was on a panel with Angela Brown (not pictured), author of WAYS TO FIND YOURSELF. This was really fun as it was Kate's first-ever author event!.
While Francesca and I were at the panel with Kate and Angela, Tom and Beverley heard David Pogue talk about his instant New York Times bestseller, APPLE: The First 50 Years, where he chronicles the rise of Apple from startup to tech giant. It's a fascinating story, and David even illustrated some of this history with a few clever songs that he wrote and performed during his presentation, which made for a very entertaining start to the day.
Tom skipped lunch with us to hear Matthew Futterman talk about his book, THE CRUELEST GAME: Chasing Greatness in Professional Tennis. Tom is a huge tennis fan, so he enjoyed the conversation between Matthew and moderator Karen Gruenberg about the current state of the sport and the insights that Matthew gained about the motivations and mindsets of some of the top players in the world.
On Wednesday night, I went to see Bonnie Garmus in Montclair, New Jersey, at a terrific event presented by Watchung Booksellers. Bonnie was in conversation with author Kate Zernike. She talked about how a love of poetry drew her to conceive of the idea for her new novel, PECK & PECK. I have had the pleasure of interviewing Bonnie twice (our discussion about PECK & PECK will run next week), but we had never met in person. It was wonderful to be able to do that. Her husband, David, and one of her daughters were with her, so I got to meet them as well.
We typically don’t run multiple reviews of the same book, but our reviewers Pamela Kramer and Roberta O’Hara loved LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY so much and were so excited to read PECK & PECK that we decided to share both of their reviews with you this week. And they are raves!
According to Pamela, “Garmus' novel is inspiring. It’s the kind of book that is even better when it’s read a second time so you can fully grasp the foreshadowing that is easy to miss on the first reading, as well as revisit the lovely prose. Rereading encourages us to appreciate the descriptions, the stories within the story, and the myriad characters who (almost) all, in their own way, are rooting for Batter. I'm planning on using it for the book club that I lead, as I imagine many others will.”
Roberta says, “Right from the start, [Garmus’] clever and delightful turns of phrase, play on words and downright silliness have readers laughing --- and sometimes out loud…. PECK & PECK features original characters, an original storyline, and an original voice. At times, I found myself thinking that the book is reminiscent of the best writing of John Irving or Anne Tyler. But there is no mistaking that Batter Gray will go down in literary history as one of a kind.”
We hosted this month’s “Bookaccino Live” book preview afternoon event on Wednesday. I talked about 29 books releasing between October 13th and November 5th, along with three from December and 12 from January 2027, that we wanted to get on your radar. You can watch the presentation here and see a list of the featured titles here.
Next month's “Bookaccino Live” book preview afternoon event will take place on Wednesday, November 11th at 2pm ET. The focus will be on books releasing between November 10th and January 5th, in addition to some titles releasing in February 2027, that we think will appeal to you. Click here to sign up.
In honor of the 40th anniversary of the iconic American Girl brand, Fiona Davis was asked to write the first American Girl novel for adults. SAMANTHA: THE NEXT CHAPTER is the result, and it features Samantha Parkington at the age of 25 searching for justice after her legacy is stolen in New York City in 1920.
According to Rebecca Munro in her review, “Reading the book, it is easy to see why this author/character pairing makes so much sense. Long praised as a writer of strong, indelible female characters living in times that were not ready for them, Davis feels almost like a medium drawing Samantha from another realm. As real, inspiring and magical as the doll you once held in your hands and whispered your dreams to, SAMANTHA: THE NEXT CHAPTER is proof of the power of fiction, imagination and knowledge.”
I do not have daughters, so I never have been to the American Girl store. This will be my gateway to the brand!
Other books we’re reviewing this week include:
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TRUTH TO POWER: Luke Cage plays detective and superhero when he uncovers a conspiracy that turns vulnerable Americans into the unwitting pawns of a madman in this latest Marvel Crime thriller for adult readers, this time written by S. A. Cosby.
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LUNA, PHOENIX, QUEEN: In a narrative that spans four decades and 4,000 miles, Julie Orringer’s latest novel illuminates the power of storytelling and explores the terror of losing the ability to make sense of our world.
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I NEVER KNEW YOU AT ALL: Christine Pride and Jo Piazza return with a thought-provoking new novel about a Black woman whose interracial marriage is tested when a journalist investigates a decades-old murder tied to her wealthy husband’s family.
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EVERY STORY IS A LOVE STORY: What do we owe to those who have hurt us? Are we defined by our worst moments and our deepest regrets? And, more than anything, can forgiveness ease our suffering? Imbolo Mbue’s new novel charts the uneven path from heartbreak to healing.
I’m Betting You’ll Love…
My latest Bets On picks are AMERICAN HAGWON by Min Jin Lee and HOLLYWOOD, ENDING by John Green. Click on each of the titles for my commentary.
Wrapping Up Our Fall Reading Giveaways
Our Fall Reading contests came to a close this week with our final two giveaways: THE BLUFF by Wade Rouse and HOME FOR THE HOMICIDES: A Holly & Mark Mystery by Elle Cosimano. Congratulations to the winners of our 12 contests, and many thanks to all who entered!
Word of Mouth Contest Reminder
Submit your comments about the books you’ve read, and you’ll be in the running to win our current Word of Mouth prizes: PARTITA by Barbara Kingsolver, which is this month’s “Read with Jenna” Book Club pick, and WHALE HARBOR by Mary Beth Keane, which we will review next week. Please do so by Friday, October 23rd at noon ET.
Remember to Vote in Our Poll
Our poll continues to ask which of 35 fiction titles releasing this month you have read or are planning to read. Click here to let us know by Friday, October 23rd at noon ET.
News & Pop Culture
Reader Mail:
Donna wrote about winning a recent Word of Mouth contest: “Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I am a longtime contest entrant and first-time winner. I was surprised when a package arrived since I hadn’t ordered anything. When I opened it and saw AMERICAN HAGWON, I was thrilled! I then read Francesca’s email and found out that I will be receiving THE VANISHING FAMILY as well. I am very eager to read both of them.
“Thanks again to you and your team. Your newsletter is a must read every Saturday. From the reviews to monthly picks to events, it includes valuable information for book lovers like me. I enjoy being part of the Bookreporter community.”
Marilyn wrote, “As an avid reader and a lucky winner in the Fall Reading contest, I was thrilled to receive a copy of WHATEVER HAPPENED TO LORI LOVELY? by Sarah McCoy in the mail over the weekend. I am looking forward to reading this intriguing novel, posting a review, and, most of all, getting acquainted with an author new to me. I would like to thank all the hardworking people at Bookreporter for providing a top-of-the-line newsletter where readers can go to discover new books, read informative author interviews, and just enjoy learning what is new in the book world!”
Carol wrote, “This will be short and sweet. I very much look forward to your emails, so thank you so much for the enjoyment for the day. Happy Reading.”
Judy wrote about our “Bookaccino Live” event on Wednesday: “Thank you, Carol. As usual you did a fantastic job. I don’t think I will live long enough to read all the books I have in my possession.”
“Wishbone Kitchen” on Netflix: I have been a longtime fan of Meredith Hayden. Her first cookbook, THE WISHBONE KITCHEN COOKBOOK, gave us some brilliant cooking ideas. Now she has a weekly video podcast (also available on Netflix) that is filmed at her 200-year-old Hamptons barn. She has a really entertaining “not-so-perfect style” where she shares tips but also has fun. Eli Manning, the legendary New York Giants quarterback, was a guest on one episode of her show, and she made barbecue recipes from around the country. One year, when I was in North Carolina, I learned that barbecue there was not what I was used to, and I did not love the vinegar base. It was fun seeing the various ways that barbecue is shared. Eli said he always played football, so he was never at a tailgate in the stadium parking lot. Humorous. Oh, and they tossed a football around too!
The official trailer for Narnia: The Magician's Nephew has dropped. The movie, directed by Greta Gerwig, will release on February 12th. It is Netflix's first film to receive a wide global theatrical release and their first IMAX offering.
GRANDMA JOY AND ME: A Journey of Healing, One National Park at a Time is a book that I have been reading --- one chapter at a time --- and thinking about. The traveling began 11 years ago when Brad Ryan took his Grandma Joy camping in the Smoky Mountains after hearing “that she had never seen a mountain.” They started going to one national park at a time, and suddenly they were planning travels to all 63 of them. The book tells the story of their adventures and how “Grandma Joy’s Road Trip” took them to every US national park. With this challenge done, they traveled to all seven continents. The bond between them has grown stronger through the years.
In this video, Brad and Joy joined Geoff Bennett from “PBS NewsHour” to discuss the book and their travels. Grandma was 85 when she started, and now she is 96. What a great way to spend one's retirement years!
Next Wednesday night, I am going to see Harry Styles with Francesca and my friend, Kim. He is doing a 30-night residency at Madison Square Garden, and we are catching Night 25. On Spotify, I have his current album on repeat, as well as a set list that was curated by a show attendee. I am impressed with how he does a big show but still appears to make it personal for each audience member.
I also am fascinated by logistics and how things work. The Knicks are playing their home opener on Tuesday night. I would love to be there after their game is over when the hardwood floor --- which rests above the ice rink that the Rangers play on --- is moved away and the stage for Styles is rebuilt.
The house plants have been brought inside, and now we have a room filled with amaryllis plants that are hibernating in the dark. There is still a lot of cutting back that needs to happen outside. I am vowing to do that in a much more orderly fashion than last year when I seem to have skipped it! Anything this year would be better.
Read on, and have a great week.
Carol Fitzgerald (Carol@bookreporter.com)
P.S. For those of you who shop online, if you use the store links that appear on our site for shopping, Bookreporter.com gets a small affiliate fee on your purchases from Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Bookshop/IndieBound. As you read our reviews and features, we would appreciate your considering this as you buy!
Featured Reviews: PECK & PECK by Bonnie Garmus
PECK & PECK by Bonnie Garmus (Fiction/Humor)
Audiobook available, read by Seth Numrich
It’s 1982, New York City. Crime is on the rise, muggings are in the streets, and Batter Gray, a recent college graduate, is worried about his future. While his friends have real jobs, he’s folding T-shirts at the Gap. As for love? No. Not unless you count Sallie Mae, the student loan tyrant he hears from all the time. But when Batter gets a dream job at Peck & Peck, the most prestigious poetry quarterly in the world, his life moves into the literary fast lane. Soon Batter is knee-deep in the secret war between the two Editors in Chief, the famous Peck brothers --- twins and enemies --- as well as being privy to the private affairs of their 39 editors, whose professed mission is the same: Find originality. Reward creativity. Burn the rest. And by burn, they mean incinerate. Reviewed by Pamela Kramer and Roberta O'Hara.
- Click here to read more about the book.
- Click here for the discussion guide on ReadingGroupGuides.com.
Read reviews from Pamela Kramer and Roberta O'Hara.
Don't miss Carol's “Bookreporter Talks To” interview
with Bonnie Garmus in next week's newsletter.
Featured Review:
SAMANTHA: THE NEXT CHAPTER by Fiona Davis
SAMANTHA: THE NEXT CHAPTER by Fiona Davis (Historical Fiction)
Audiobook available, read by Saskia Maarleveld
In honor of the 40th anniversary of the iconic American Girl brand, Fiona Davis was asked to write the first American Girl novel for adults. It’s 1920, and 25-year-old Samantha Parkington is working hard to educate women in New York about suffrage and encourage them to vote in their first presidential election that fall. But when Samantha’s large inheritance, including her childhood Mount Bedford home, is stolen in a shocking scheme, she goes from socialite to shop girl overnight and experiences a very different side of New York City living in a boarding house. Searching for clues regarding the theft of her inheritance, Samantha infiltrates the business of a notorious criminal in New York City. Determined as ever, she will do whatever it takes to find answers and save her family’s legacy. Reviewed by Rebecca Munro.
- Click here to read more about the book.
Click here to read our review.
Bookreporter.com Bets On:
AMERICAN HAGWON by Min Jin Lee
and HOLLYWOOD, ENDING by John Green
AMERICAN HAGWON by Min Jin Lee (Fiction)
Min Jin Lee's last book, PACHINKO, came out in 2017, which in many ways feels like a lifetime ago. So I assumed that whatever she wrote next would both feel and be big. I am not talking about the page count, but rather the storyline, the complexity of the characters, and the messaging that she wanted to share.
The focus in AMERICAN HAGWON is on education, which starts young. It is not just about learning, but also about achievement. Mediocrity is unacceptable. Good is unacceptable. Very good is unacceptable. There is a quest for the promised land --- that of a select group of Ivy League colleges that have been noted as the only way that success will be achieved.
What will contribute to that success? After-school programs called hagwons, which foster the kind of student to which these schools are attracted.
- Click here to read the book description.
- Click here to read our review.
- Click here for the discussion guide on ReadingGroupGuides.com.
Click here to read more of Carol's commentary on AMERICAN HAGWON.
HOLLYWOOD, ENDING by John Green (Fiction)
Ah, Hollywood. It's all glitz and glamour on the outside. But what is it really like behind the scenes? John Green takes readers there in his latest book, HOLLYWOOD, ENDING, his first novel for adults.
Over the past decade, Green has seen cinematic adaptations of his novels that have given him insight into that world --- and he brings that knowledge to this book.
Here we are brought onto the set of an indie film being made about Andy Warhol, which is set in the days before his death. Andy Warhol Never Gets Old co-stars Juniper Castillo, who was a child actor, and Kai Laramie, who is appearing in his first movie. The title role is being played by someone whom theatergoers might not expect to see in a film like this: Marvel action hero Matthew Malone. He's “the face” of the movie, with Hollywood clout behind his name. Whether a big motion picture or a small one, he wants a hit.
- Click here to read the book description.
- Click here to read our review.
Click here to read more of Carol's commentary on HOLLYWOOD, ENDING.
Featured Review: TRUTH TO POWER by S. A. Cosby
TRUTH TO POWER: A Luke Cage Marvel Crime Novel by S. A. Cosby (Thriller)
Audiobook available, read by Adam Lazarre-White
With advanced cybernetics showing up in the possession of low-level criminals, Luke Cage is hired to investigate a factory manufacturing medical devices in rural Virginia. Leaving Jessica Jones during a delicate moment in their relationship, he makes plans to travel south but is devastated to learn that a cousin who scoped out the plant for him has been found dead. The police report states it was an accident. But Luke has long known that official words are just that: words. Fueled by guilt and vengeance, Luke arrives in Virginia and promises his aunt that he will get to the bottom of things. But danger lurks in every living room, barroom and country road of Majestic, and the local sheriff’s barely concealed prejudices are ready to boil to the surface. Reviewed by Ray Palen.
- Click here to read more about the book.
Click here to read our review.
Featured Review:
LUNA, PHOENIX, QUEEN by Julie Orringer
LUNA, PHOENIX, QUEEN by Julie Orringer (Fiction)
Audiobook available; read by MacLeod Andrews, Stina Nielsen, Jennifer Kim, Nick Trengove, Phoebe Strole and Dallis Seeker
Dava and Barr Pennington are professors at a Midwestern university. Dava is unhappy in their marriage and secretly in love with a colleague. Spurred by their complicated liaison, she spends her nights working on a novel about two women who run a domestic violence shelter. But the writing becomes increasingly difficult as her memory begins to fail. Tests reveal that she’s suffering from early-onset Alzheimer’s. After a precipitous decline, Dava moves to a memory-care facility. Soon afterward, Barr discovers her hidden manuscript and extrapolates her affair from the relationship described in the novel’s pages. Over the next two years, he rewrites the novel and publishes it as his own. But persistent feelings of guilt lead him to confess his theft to an unlikely party, who leads others to the truth. Reviewed by Harvey Freedenberg.
- Click here to read more about the book.
Click here to read our review.
Featured Review: I NEVER KNEW YOU AT ALL
by Christine Pride and Jo Piazza
I NEVER KNEW YOU AT ALL by Christine Pride and Jo Piazza (Fiction)
Audiobook available; read by Khaya Fraites, Cary Hite and Matt Pittenger
When Simone Hartwell’s college ex and first love, Kwame, resurfaces in her life, her carefully constructed domestic bliss threatens to crumble under the weight of old feelings and new dramas. Kwame, who built the journalism career Simone once dreamed of, is investigating a decades-old mystery of a young Black man who disappeared from The Tate School --- the same elite prep school that her husband’s family has attended for generations. When he discovers a startling connection to the Hartwells, it sets everyone on a collision course that will unearth long-held secrets, test loyalties, and force a major reckoning between the past and the future. Reviewed by Pamela Kramer.
- Click here to read more about the book.
Click here to read our review.
Featured Review:
EVERY STORY IS A LOVE STORY by Imbolo Mbue
EVERY STORY IS A LOVE STORY by Imbolo Mbue (Fiction)
Audiobook available, read by Prentice Onayemi
Three years ago, Wolo’s wife was killed in a tragic car accident. In the face of a loss that seemed insurmountable, Wolo has slowly rebuilt a semblance of a life. But then a letter arrives one day that threatens to upend his life once again. It is from Victoria, the woman who was behind the wheel that terrible day. Wolo’s family pastor tells him the letter is the work of the devil, and his mother expressly forbids him from making further mention of it. Wolo ponders it for days and ultimately agrees to meet with the woman who killed his wife. When he does, the compassion and deep remorse of the woman affects him in ways he had never imagined, and he begins to wonder if the long road to healing can be shared. Reviewed by Jana Siciliano.
- Click here to read more about the book.
Click here to read our review.
Bookreporter.com's 16th Annual Fall Reading Feature
Fall is known as the biggest season of the year for books. The titles that release during this latter part of the year often become holiday gifts, and many are blockbusters. We spotlighted 12 of these books in our Fall Reading Contests and Feature. While our series of 24-hour giveaways have ended, we encourage you to take a look at our featured titles, which we know people will be talking about this fall and beyond.
This year's featured titles are:
- Click here to see the winners of this year's Fall Reading contests.
Click here to see our Fall Reading feature.
BARK HUMBUG: An Andy Carpenter Mystery by David Rosenfelt (Mystery)
Audiobook available, read by Grover Gardner
This time, reluctant lawyer Andy Carpenter is serious about retiring. But when the local newspaper asks him to participate in their Christmas spread of local celebrities and their dogs, he brings Tara along for the ride. When the photographer comes to take pictures of Andy and the dogs, he instead opens the door to Sharon Lowery, who devised the newspaper story just to get his attention and beg him for help. Her brother, Jon, is wanted for murder and is on the run. However, if Andy agrees to hear Jon out, he'll turn himself in with the hope that Andy will represent him and reunite him with his dog. Andy decides to help Jon and slowly uncovers a web of conspiracies. Determined to keep him out of jail, Andy gathers the crew to investigate. Reviewed by Jack Kramer.
THE BIG CATS DANCE PARTY: No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency (27) by Alexander McCall Smith (Mystery)
Audiobook available, read by Bianca Amato
Botswana sometimes feels like a small town, so when a client wanders into the detective agency, it comes as little surprise that Mma Ramotswe has met him once before. But Mr. B has not made the trip to Gaborone for pleasure. The animal rescue center he runs, Elephant Havens, is in peril. Someone in the surrounding villages is tarnishing its reputation, and Mr. B cannot fathom why. Determined as ever to aid a noble cause, Mma Ramotswe, her trusted associate Mma Makutsi, and Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni travel to Maun to restore the community’s trust in the sanctuary. In navigating this precarious situation and others in THE BIG CATS DANCE PARTY, Mma Ramotswe and her associates once again must rely on their compassion, gentle humor and good sense to win the day. Reviewed by Pauline Finch.
WHERE THE ROAD ENDS: A Jonathan Stride Novel by Brian Freeman (Mystery/Thriller)
Audiobook available, read by January LaVoy
Jonathan Stride's partner, Maggie Bei, is driving home after midnight when a call comes in: shots fired at the home of a Duluth judge. Moments later, she finds Gordon and Tracy Hartwick murdered in their bed. But someone is hiding in the judge's house, and as Maggie lays chase, she's forced to make a split-second decision that leaves the intruder dead. When Stride arrives at the scene, he has to give Maggie devastating news. The intruder had no gun. He wasn't the killer. She shot an innocent man. With Maggie facing a firestorm over her actions, Stride must discover who really killed Gordon and Tracy Hartwick --- and what secrets they were hiding that put them in the gunsights of a murderer. Reviewed by Ray Palen.
FAIR ONES: A Double Novel by Lydia Millet (Fiction)
Audiobook available, read by Devon Sorvari
FAIR ONES follows two Brooklyn women in their 40s who are reeling from the sudden and baffling death of their friend, Claire. Fair, Mara’s account, opens in the wake of initial shock as she and Jen come to grips with the enigma of Claire’s killing. Ones, told from Jen’s point of view, picks up a year later as she and Mara wrestle with new relationships and old secrets. In this vibrant, funny-sad fiction of companionship and solitude, the narrators’ inner and outer conversations, and their ongoing entanglement with the memory of Claire, explore the ways we create and define ourselves through others. Reviewed by Sarah Rachel Egelman.
SOLACE HOUSE by Will Maclean (Psychological Thriller/Horror)
Audiobook available, read by Sebastian Humphreys and Greg Wagland
For Alex Lane’s wealthy university friends, the summer break stretches out before them. But for Alex, broke as usual, going home is not an option. So when the university offers him an unusual summer job clearing out a dilapidated Victorian mansion, Solace House, he jumps at the chance. Alex joins an unlikely crew of students and is particularly drawn to mercurial, red-headed Ella. As the students begin sorting through piles of old newspapers and magazines, dusty antiques and esoteric junk, Alex and Ella become enthralled by the elaborate and eerie journals of the house’s former owner, Edwin Flayne. As the students gradually uncover the house’s secrets, the rift between those who want to delve further and those who believe they’ve already gone too far grows ever wider. Reviewed by Megan Elliott.
RAVEN by Lyndsay Faye (Gothic/Historical Thriller)
Audiobook available, read by EJ Lavery
After an itinerant childhood spent first with her mother’s traveling theater troupe and then being passed around from relative to relative, Raven Helen Allan is relieved to finally settle down with Aunt Berenice in her Baltimore townhouse. But when the household is threatened with financial ruin, she must set out to earn her own living. Taking a job as a paid companion, Raven arrives at the crumbling Moldavia Manor. Her charge is a delicate young invalid named Lenore Legrand, who haunts the Gothic structure like a phantom. Living with them is Lenore’s devoted older cousin, Trevanion, who shares Raven’s interest in the occult and devotes his days to searching ancient texts for an Elixir of Life that might cure his cousin. Raven finds herself inexorably drawn to both cousins, as well as to the secrets hidden in the shadows of Moldavia Manor. Reviewed by Ray Palen.
MOTHER MAY I by Harry Hunsicker (Thriller)
Audiobook available, read by Helen Lee
When former CIA operative Meg Dalton finds a shocking clue that suggests her long-missing daughter might still be alive, she’s forced into a desperate, high-stakes search for the truth. Fifteen years after little Ivy vanished without a trace at a Texas fair, Meg has built a career as a covert “operator” --- a soldier-for-hire who takes on dangerous black ops missions for the government. But during a botched assignment in Los Angeles, Meg encounters a woman wearing her daughter’s distinctive butterfly necklace, and everything she believes unravels. As Meg defies her handlers and goes rogue to chase the lead, she’s thrust into a deadly conspiracy linking global espionage, human trafficking and her own past sins. Reviewed by L. Dean Murphy.
CHASING THE HEADLESS HORSEMAN: The History, Hijinks, and Halloweens of the Real Sleepy Hollow by J. W. Ocker (Travel/Cultural Studies)
Audiobook available, read by Dustin Naylor
This immersive travelogue investigates the town that inspired Washington Irving's famous short story, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” and dives into the storied history of the Headless Horseman’s stomping grounds. Within the pages you'll visit the village’s graveyard where Irving himself is buried and explore all the present-day spookiness of one of the strangest towns in the country. Blending cultural criticism and behind-the-scenes reporting, J. W. Ocker uncovers the tensions between tourism and tradition, profit and preservation, fiction and fact. With wit and curiosity, CHASING THE HEADLESS HORSEMAN tells the story of how one small town reinvented itself as America’s Halloween capital, complete with statues, street signs and an 18-foot-tall Headless Horseman. Reviewed by Ray Palen.
Next Week's Notables:
Noteworthy Books Releasing on October 19th and 20th
Below are some notable titles releasing on October 19th and 20th 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 available the week of October 19th, see our “On Sale This Week” newsletter here.
October 19th
THE FAMILY CROSS: An Alex Cross Thriller by James Patterson (Thriller)
Alex Cross investigates a series of baffling murders while balancing a family crisis that threatens to upend his entire world.
October 20th
CHAIN REACTION: A Reacher Novel by Lee Child and Andrew Child (Thriller)
CHAIN REACTION is the heart-pounding new Jack Reacher thriller from #1 New York Times bestselling authors Lee Child and Andrew Child.
HANGING AND BURNING: A King Oliver Novel by Walter Mosley (Mystery)
A dying gangster's plea sends Joe King Oliver on a quest for a missing woman across America's coasts --- unraveling a dark and violent family history along the way.
A MARRIED LITTLE CHRISTMAS: An Illustrated Holiday Collection by Abby Jimenez (Romantic Comedy)
Bring on the holiday cheer in this delightful collection of three feel-good novellas from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of THE NIGHT WE MET --- with bonus recipes and full-page illustrations, perfect for gifting.
MERCY'S CHILD by Richard Paul Evans (Historical Fiction)
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Richard Paul Evans comes an emotionally rich work of historical fiction inspired by the true story of Etta Wheeler, a woman whose courage and compassion helped spark a movement that forever changed a country.
MISS WOLCOTT'S GHOST by Louise Penny (Mystery)
When Chief Inspector Armand Gamache receives a puzzling phone call at his home in Three Pines, instructing him to go to a remote, forgotten area in Quebec to find a dead body, a puzzling mystery unfolds.
MISSING MOLLY by Natalie Barelli (Psychological Thriller)
From bestselling author Natalie Barelli comes a dark psychological thriller about a cold case, the newspaper investigating it, and the woman for whom it all hits a little too close to home.
THE PIANO TEACHER OF MONTPARNASSE by Heather Morris (Historical Fiction)
The #1 New York Times bestselling author of THE TATTOOIST OF AUSCHWITZ returns with a masterful new novel that captures the astonishing bravery of ordinary people in extraordinary times.
THE QUEEN OF ROSES by Julia Kelly (Historical Fiction)
Spanning the ballrooms of Pasadena and the sunlit gardens of Altadena, THE QUEEN OF ROSES is a new novel of love and sacrifice from the internationally bestselling author of THE LIGHT OVER LONDON and THE LAST GARDEN IN ENGLAND.
ROYAL WITCH by Philippa Gregory (Historical Fiction)
Ambition. Sorcery. Treason. How far will one woman dare to go? ROYAL WITCH is the gripping new novel from internationally bestselling author Philippa Gregory.
SIMPLY INA: A Barefoot Contessa Cookbook by Ina Garten (Cookbook)
SIMPLY INA is a brand-new collection of 85 easy yet impressive recipes for every meal of the day, from make-ahead lunches to effortless appetizers and showstopping dinners.
SUCCUBUS: A Love Story by Kate Fox (Paranormal Romance)
Her touch kills, his saves the dying. Are they fated, or forbidden? Maybe Tempest will get her love story after all...or maybe she’ll become its villain.
WHALE HARBOR by Mary Beth Keane (Fiction)
WHALE HARBOR is a sweeping multigenerational saga inspired by the author's own family history, following 11 brothers as they are set on different paths between Ireland, England, Montana and New York.
Click here to see the latest “On Sale This Week” newsletter.
From left to right: Louise Penny, Walter Mosley, Audrey Niffenegger
Upcoming Virtual Book and Author Events
Here are five upcoming virtual book and author events that you may be interested in attending. Click on the links for more info and to register.
Monday, October 19th at 7pm ET: Barnes & Noble: Join Barnes & Noble as they welcome #1 New York Times bestselling author Louise Penny for a live virtual discussion of MISS WOLCOTT'S GHOST, the 21st installment in her award-winning Inspector Armand Gamache mystery series. Louise will be in conversation with Rita Braver, the national correspondent for “CBS News Sunday Morning.”
Monday, October 19th at 8pm ET: The Poisoned Pen Bookstore: Walter Mosley will talk about his new King Oliver novel, HANGING AND BURNING. A dying gangster's plea sends Joe King Oliver on a quest for a missing woman across America's coasts --- unraveling a dark and violent family history along the way.
Tuesday, October 20th at 9pm ET: Killer Author Club: Kimberly Belle, Heather Gudenkauf and Kaira Rouda will talk about their upcoming book, TAKE BACK THE NIGHT. This mind-bending thriller is about three friends, one unfinished story, and a killer back from the depths to write his own ending. Here is a behind-the-scenes look at how three Killers wrote a novel together, along with news, games, and a giveaway or two.
Wednesday, October 21st at 3pm ET: Barnes & Noble: Join Barnes & Noble as they welcome Alex Hay for a live virtual discussion of his page-turning new mystery, THE MIDNIGHT GUESTS, as part of their B&N Midday Mystery Virtual Event series. Alex will be in conversation with the bestselling author of THE AMALFI CURSE, Sarah Penner.
Wednesday, October 21st at 7pm ET: “Friends & Fiction”: Join “Friends & Fiction” for a conversation with Audrey Niffenegger about LIFE OUT OF ORDER, her long-awaited follow-up to THE TIME TRAVELER'S WIFE, an exhilarating speculative story set in a dystopian future where virtual reality and real life converge.
"Bookreporter Talks To" Videos & Podcasts
“Bookreporter Talks To” is a video and podcast series that delivers long-form, in-depth author interviews. For years, Carol has moderated book festivals and author events around the country. But we know that readers often do not live where they can attend an author event. Our goal is to bring these author interviews to readers, wherever they may be. Watch on video, or listen as a podcast. (The podcasts include audio excerpts.)
Here is our latest interview:
Other authors we've interviewed recently include:
Upcoming interviews include:
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Bonnie Garmus (PECK & PECK)
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Robert Kolker (THE VANISHING FAMILY: Love, Fate, and the Quest to End Dementia)
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John Mutter (FORTUNE AND GLASS)
Click here for a complete list of our
"Bookreporter Talks To" videos and podcasts.
Our Latest Poll: October Fiction Releases to Anticipate
Which of the following fiction titles releasing in October have you read or do you plan to read? Please check all that apply.
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ADAM AND EVE by Jeffrey Archer
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BAD WORDS by Ríoghnach Robinson
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BARK HUMBUG: An Andy Carpenter Mystery, by David Rosenfelt
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BLACKOUT: A Jake Bendel Thriller, by J. Luke Bennecke
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THE BLUFF by Wade Rouse
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THE BRIGHTNESS by Chad Harbach
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CHAIN REACTION: A Reacher Novel, by Lee Child and Andrew Child
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DARK READING MATTER: The Last Thursday Next Novel, by Jasper Fforde
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A DATE WITH SANTA by Debbie Macomber
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EVERY STORY IS A LOVE STORY by Imbolo Mbue
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THE FAMILY CROSS: An Alex Cross Thriller, by James Patterson
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FORTUNE AND GLASS by John Mutter
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HANGING AND BURNING: A King Oliver Novel, by Walter Mosley
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THE HOLLOW: A Harry Bosch Novel, by Michael Connelly
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HOME FOR THE HOMICIDES: A Holly & Mark Mystery, by Elle Cosimano and Hannah Morrissey
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HUNGERED by Amanda Rizkalla
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I NEVER KNEW YOU AT ALL by Christine Pride and Jo Piazza
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LIFE OUT OF ORDER by Audrey Niffenegger
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LUNA, PHOENIX, QUEEN by Julie Orringer
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A MARRIED LITTLE CHRISTMAS by Abby Jimenez
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MERCY'S CHILD by Richard Paul Evans
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MISS WOLCOTT'S GHOST by Louise Penny
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OFF THE RESERVATION by Stephen Graham Jones
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OTHER WORLDS THAN THESE: A Talisman Novel, written by Stephen King and Peter Straub, illustrated by Gabriel Rodriguez
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PARTITA by Barbara Kingsolver
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PECK & PECK by Bonnie Garmus
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THE PIANO TEACHER OF MONTPARNASSE by Heather Morris
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THE QUEEN OF ROSES by Julia Kelly
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ROYAL WITCH by Philippa Gregory
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SAMANTHA: THE NEXT CHAPTER by Fiona Davis
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SLEEPERS IN THE SNOW by Joanne Harris
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TRUTH TO POWER: A Luke Cage Marvel Crime Novel, by S. A. Cosby
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WHALE HARBOR by Mary Beth Keane
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WHAT HAPPENS AT NIGHTFALL by Lauren Willig
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THE WITCH by Freida McFadden
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None of the above
Click here to vote in the poll by Friday, October 23rd at noon ET.
Word of Mouth Contest: Tell Us What
You've Read --- and You Can Win Two Books!
Tell us about the books you’ve read with your comments and a rating of 1 to 5 stars. During the contest period from October 9th to October 23rd at noon ET, three lucky readers each will be randomly chosen to win a copy of PARTITA by Barbara Kingsolver and WHALE HARBOR by Mary Beth Keane.
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.
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