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This swoony contemporary romance is well-written and paced, but what really makes it shine are the intricate characters that Dade (Ship Wrecked) has brought to life.
Nethercott plays with language and structure in this collection of whimsical yet unsettling tales full of lush prose.
The ninth Veronica Speedwell book, following A Sinister Revenge, spins off Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. It’s possibly the best in the series, with Raybourn’s trademark banter, innuendo, and outstanding lead characters, along with a fascinating plot and supporting cast.
Best-selling Ali Hazelwood and several LJ best-booked authors, including TJ Alexander, Liana De la Rosa, and Farrah Rochon, offer new books to enjoy this summer.
Franco Bernini, Christina Dodd, and Tracy Chevalier transport readers to historic Italy; plus a fictional take on Jackie O's life, along with the story of a woman pirate who sails the Caribbean seas.
From intensely unsettling to heartbreakingly beautiful moments, the best horror novels of 2023 offer fresh spins on terrifying tropes.
The best pop fiction novels of 2023 journey to self-realization and survival, untangle family ties, slay social shibboleths, and uncover hidden histories.
The best literary fiction titles of 2023 probe human nature, celebrate creativity, depict history, and investigate the stories we tell ourselves.
The best world literature books of 2023 examine colonialism, limn loss, juxtapose past and present, and scrutinize human relationships.
Full of riveting speculative stories, sci-fi/mystery blends, and enchanting fantasy worlds, the best science fiction and fantasy novels of 2023 provide engrossing reading adventures.
The best short stories of 2023 provide bite-sized but potent looks at life, loss, grief, oppression, isolation, and, of course, wonder and joy.
Flying pirate ships, a family finding its way, and a delightful rendition of the fake-marriage trope are just a few highlights of the best romance books of 2023.
This year’s best crime fiction novels contain simmering secrets, rage and revenge, dogged detectives, and plenty of murder and mayhem. Dig in!
PREMIUM
The Lady He Lost
A fun and sexy historical. It is perfect for fans of empowered women and their supportive men, similar to Tessa Dare’s “Spindle Cove” series.
Fans of fast-paced police procedurals will enjoy Goldberg’s trademark humor and his insight into the entertainment world in his latest Eve Ronin novel (following Movieland).
This is a must-buy for libraries that are looking to add fresh new horror to their collection. The story has broad appeal and will entice patrons with its additions to the classic Frankenstein story, as well as horror readers seeking something new. Recommend to those who liked T. Kingfisher’s What Moves the Dead and Philip Fracassi’s Boys in the Valley.
Fans of Victorian mysteries, medical mysteries, and detective duos will appreciate this historical suspense. Suggest for fans of Andrea Penrose or Ritu Mukerji’s debut.
PREMIUM
The Frame-Up
Hand Bond’s new crime caper fantasy (which follows her recent espionage-themed paranormal romance Mr. & Mrs. Witch) to readers who like their magic set in the real world or who enjoy heist novels based around a found-family crew.
PREMIUM
A Fate Inked in Blood
Jensen (“Bridge Kingdom” series) has rooted the first entry in her “Saga of the Unfated” in Norse mythology, giving readers a glimpse into a cold, violent society, but she doesn’t skimp on the heat. This reads like the love child of Genevieve Gornichec’s The Witch’s Heart and Sarah J. Maas’s A Court of Silver Flames. Romantasy fans will be ravenous for more.
PREMIUM
A Woman of Pleasure
Multi-award-winning Murata is a hit in Japan, and this will be a valuable addition to historical-fiction collections.
PREMIUM
The Canopy Keepers
Henry’s (The Foreign Exchange) near-future fantasy world is interesting and beautiful, with lush descriptions of the forest and the fantastical world hidden within.
PREMIUM
Cascade Failure
Sagas’s debut combines galactic and personal stakes in an entertaining series starter that leaves plenty of space for future adventures.
PREMIUM
The Mystery Writer
Recommended for Gentill’s fans and readers who enjoy mysteries from Riley Sager, Ruth Ware, or Louise Penny.
PREMIUM
We Ate the Dark
With stunning prose, Pearson draws readers into the lives of her characters and weaves a horror-esque fantasy tale.
PREMIUM
The Night of the Storm
While explicating Jia’s struggles with her Indian culture and as an immigrant, this locked-room mystery’s strength is its setting and the atmospheric tension created by the hurricane.
PREMIUM
Murder in Masquerade
The follow-up to Murder in Postscript emphasizes Victorian social customs and society. Fans of Dianne Freeman’s “Countess of Harleigh” mysteries will enjoy.
PREMIUM
The Stars Turned Inside Out
Readers who like mixing science and detection may find this book appealing, but it’s a mixed bag.
Compelling not for its solution but for the act of solving, with modern cultural references and screen-worthy action. Readers who enjoy redemption and comeuppance dispensed by smartly written characters will enjoy.
PREMIUM
The Silence in Her Eyes
This slow-build suspense novel keeps the tension rising as readers are drawn ever deeper into Leah’s claustrophobic world. And while the ending feels a bit rushed, the twists are enjoyable.
PREMIUM
The Fortune Seller
Sophisticated with just the right dose of sinister, this coming-of-age story doesn’t shy from the grisly power dynamics of privilege.
The ninth Veronica Speedwell book, following A Sinister Revenge, spins off Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. It’s possibly the best in the series, with Raybourn’s trademark banter, innuendo, and outstanding lead characters, along with a fascinating plot and supporting cast.
PREMIUM
Hero
The latest from the author of Murder Book offers little character development, but it’s a fast-paced thriller for those who like novels in which antagonists attempt to outsmart each other.
PREMIUM
What Mother Won’t Tell Me
Will delight readers of Paula Hawkins and Gillian Flynn, as well as fans of psychological thrillers.
PREMIUM
The Haunting of Velkwood
Fans of My Best Friend’s Exorcism by Grady Hendrix won’t want to miss Kiste’s (The Rust Maidens) latest.
PREMIUM
The Princess of Las Vegas
While this novel doesn’t quite deliver much suspense as might be expected, Crissy and Betsy are interesting enough to keep readers engaged. Bohjalian (The Lioness) has written numerous best-sellers, so purchase accordingly to meet demand.
PREMIUM
Take Two, Birdie Maxwell
Scotch’s (The Rewind) passionate and fast-paced story follows a roller coaster of ups and downs involving fame, friendship, and family. Will satisfy fans of classic rom-coms like Notting Hill and You’ve Got Mail.
PREMIUM
I’ve Got My Mind Set on Brew
Jayne (author of Lady and the Camp under the name Stephanie J. Scott) has found a unique niche with the brewing angle; beer aficionados and romance readers alike will enjoy learning about the brewing process just as much as Kat does in this enemies-to-lovers romance.
PREMIUM
The Other Side of Disappearing
This slow-burn romance from Clayborn (George, All Along) has an intriguing mystery and will appeal to fans of true-crime podcasts, road-trip storylines, and novels with a deep emotional core.
PREMIUM
Late Bloomer
Recommended for readers who enjoy contemporary queer romance, meet-cutes, and rural settings.
PREMIUM
Never Blow a Kiss
An exceptional debut, braided with banter, wit, chemistry, and intrigue; perfect for fans of Tessa Dare’s humor and the cunning feminism of Sarah MacLean’s “Hell’s Belles” series.
The world Hogle has created is cozy and warm, and fans of her previous work or of witchy romances will be crossing their fingers that this is the start of a series.
PREMIUM
Kilt Trip
This enemies-to-lovers romance is captivating. The characters are well-developed, the story is well-written, and the beautiful descriptions of Scotland enchant.
PREMIUM
The Catch
Lea’s final “Influencer” novel is a fabulous rom-com brimming with magnetic chemistry and delightful tropes.
PREMIUM
The Kiss Countdown
Easton’s debut is perfect for readers seeking romance with excellent character development and STEM at its center. It’s a good read-alike for Denise Williams and Ali Hazelwood.
At turns humorous and heart-wrenching, with a smoldering sensuality that underlies even the most fraught of the protagonists’ encounters, this novel is highly recommended for all library collections.
PREMIUM
Accidentally His
This novel will appeal to readers seeking an engaging Regency romance that pairs spirited socialites with swashbuckling excitement. Recommended for fans of Grace Burrowes, Sophie Irwin, and Cathy Maxwell.
PREMIUM
Ready or Not
Bastone’s (Flirting with Forever) friends-to-lovers romance is a recommended purchase, especially where rom-coms are popular.
Rooted in Pakistani and Muslim culture and faith, this romance is a fun romp that features plenty of adventure and plot twists. Recommend to fans of Uzma Jalaluddin.
PREMIUM
The Duchess
The second entry in Jordan’s high-society historical romance series is a grimmer tale than the first, but the deserving heroine’s HEA will satisfy.
Marsh’s (Velocity of a Secret) latest is billed as a match for Enola Holmes fans, and with its mysterious turns, commentary on social norms, and endearing romance, the comparison is spot-on, plus some extra heat.
Funny and engaging, with twists and turns that keep it moving. Newbies to the series and even sports-averse readers will appreciate this modern-day Cinderella tale from Phillips.
PREMIUM
One Dangerous Night
This novel will appeal to readers seeking Regency romance with an adventurous road-trip twist. Recommended for fans of Candace Camp, Mary Balogh, and Amita Murray.
Witty dialogue, plots within plots, and a surprising twist round out this excellent novel. Highly recommended.
PREMIUM
The Butcher of the Forest
The latest from Mohamed (No One Will Come Back for Us) is recommended for readers of magical-bargain and forest-journey novels, such as Emily Tesh’s “Greenhollow” duology and Peter S. Beagle’s The Way Home.
PREMIUM
A Vicious Game
After a slow start, the latest “Halfling Saga” book returns to form with hard-fought battles, exciting magic, and sexy scenes, all set in Blair’s enchanting faeland. There are also plenty of surprises that will leave readers eager for the next installment.
PREMIUM
The Book of Love
Lovers of magical coming-of-age stories will find the protagonists’ journeys compelling, while anyone who believes that love is the greatest magic of all will find the redemptive power of love (of all types) imbued in every single page.
May’s (Seven Mercies) Russian-inspired fantasy is filled with deadly magic, political machinations, and the balance of familial bonds and desire for power.
Utomi’s searing, thought-provoking fantasy novella (the second in “The Forever Desert” series, set in an environment inspired by the Sahara) has heartbreaking parallels in the present and is highly recommended.
PREMIUM
Unbound
Healy’s debut is an excellent read for anyone who has an appetite for fairy tales, folklore, monsters, and stories with women protagonists who stand firmly rooted in their own strength.
PREMIUM
Redsight
Recommended for lovers of goth-tinged speculative fiction like Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir and The Luminous Dead by Caitlin Starling.
This a serious fantasy quest that doesn’t take itself so seriously and is perfect for readers who love Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree and Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea by Rebecca Thorne, but who wish that the romances at the heart of those cozy fantasies had been considerably more explicit.
PREMIUM
Three Kinds of Lucky
Harrison’s (Demons of Good and Evil) new series has the same delightfully wry heroine her fans expect to see, along with an intriguing new magic system.
Sometimes a bit Strange Beasts of China by Yan Ge, sometimes When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill, but consistently reminiscent of the lush language of Patricia A. McKillip.
Vardiashvili’s amazing and poignant tale of loss and resilience draws readers in with compelling descriptions of land and place. Saba encounters horrid acts of violence or their aftermath, but he also finds beauty, even magic and mystery. A remarkable debut certain to be longlisted for multiple awards, if not shortlisted for several.
PREMIUM
Inverno
This highly original, exceedingly complex novel might frustrate bibliophiles who prefer a linear storyline but will thrill those who revel in intoxicating language.
PREMIUM
My Friends
Especially in the novel’s second half, Khaled’s lack of driving force begins to feel stale, but the sense of loss of home, and eventually of friendship, is movingly rendered.
PREMIUM
Flores and Miss Paula
Rivero’s emotional plot explores a fragile mother-daughter relationship influenced by generational and cultural effects. An exciting second outing after Affairs of the Falcons.
PREMIUM
Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame
Debut author Ford offers up a warm, sincere and heartfelt tale with relatable characters. Full of appetizing descriptions of baked goods, it will please fans of TV cooking competitions.
PREMIUM
Picasso’s Lovers
Mackin’s absorbing story does a skillful job of weaving together different timelines and bringing in social issues. Suggest to art lovers and readers interested in 20th-century history.
PREMIUM
A Sign of Her Own
Inspired by real accounts of Alexander Graham Bell’s Deaf students, Marsh’s story shows a lesser-known side to the famous inventor while also encouraging readers to contemplate the concept of finding one’s true voice.
PREMIUM
My Beloved Life
Storytelling as a key to understanding one’s past, whether far or not so distant, is at the heart of this intergenerational historical novel. Recommend to admirers of Isabel Allende, Yaa Gyasi, or Min Jin Lee.
Heartfelt and honest, this poetic and impeccably written short novel takes readers on a deeply thoughtful, realistic psychological journey, admirably translated by Hofmann. Stamm is a writer who deserves a wide audience.
PREMIUM
The Last Caretaker
Strawser’s latest fast-paced page-turner (following The Next Thing You Know) grabs readers at the start and doesn’t let go. For fans of Sally Hepworth and Liane Moriarty.
PREMIUM
Above the Fire
An extraordinary national disaster becomes a journey of bonding and healing for a father and son wounded by loss, in a work that is surprisingly tender given the terrifying adversity its main characters face.
PREMIUM
The Fetishist
Filled with grim humor, Min’s novel is an engaging and thoughtful read. Those who enjoyed Charmaine Craig’s My Nemesis and Elaine Hsieh Chou’s Disorientation are likely to appreciate this final work from Min, which fully reflects her talents as a writer.
PREMIUM
Neighbors and Other Stories
Oliver uses subtlety and nuance like a knife. These stories reveal a writer who was willing to explore and stretch, telling honest, bared-open stories of her time and now of ours.
PREMIUM
The Caretaker
Listeners will become utterly absorbed in this gothic drama with echoes of Wiley Cash and Tom Franklin.
PREMIUM
Wild Things
Though the romance is a bit slow to ignite, patient listeners will be rewarded with an enjoyable sizzle at the end. An excellent fit for those seeking a low-key queer romance full of fun and engaging characters.
Atkinson’s many fans will love this collection, and newcomers will be enchanted as well. Showcasing Atkinson’s ingenuity and Joseph’s nuanced narration, this audio is an essential purchase for all libraries.
PREMIUM
One of the Boys
Listeners will be riveted by this complicated family drama that wrestles with the ethical implications of profiling and experimental medical treatments. Share with fans of Delilah S. Dawson’s The Violence or Naomi Alderman’s The Power.
PREMIUM
Lucky Dogs
Though uncomfortable and disturbing, this account of one woman’s experience of sex abuse and its consequences makes an impact. Recommended for readers of Lisa Taddeo’s Animal or Jessica Knoll’s Luckiest Girl Alive.
PREMIUM
12 Months To Live
Patterson’s and Lupica’s many fans may put up with the novel’s flaws, but this is an optional purchase for most libraries.
PREMIUM
Unrealistic Expectations
Contemporary romance fans who enjoy steamy stories featuring reformed rakes will savor this expertly narrated, uplifting story of finding true love in unexpected places.
PREMIUM
Small Worlds
Richly complex literary fiction, highly recommended for lovers of romance in the vein of Tia Williams’s Seven Days in June or the lyricism of Elif Shafak’s novels.
PREMIUM
A Cowardly Woman No More
In this smart, fanciful slice of life, a woman finds she has the courage to defy her corporate bosses in the male-dominated Massachusetts tech sphere. Excellent audiobook narration captures her frustrated ambition and a wealth of well-characterized emotion.
PREMIUM
The Handyman Method
A haunted-house story possessed by the shades of Stephen King’s The Shining and The Tommyknockers. Horror fans will be enthralled.
Zhang’s sophomore novel (following the multi-award-winning How Much of These Hills Is Gold) is as delicious to devour as the feasts prepared within.
PREMIUM
Old Enough
Balancing humor and hope with the grittiness of becoming an adult, this poignant work satisfies. A potential crossover title for older teens and a solid recommendation for fans of Nina LaCour’s Yerba Buena.
PREMIUM
Dracula: A Full Cast Audio Drama
This dramatized adaptation of Stoker’s classic tale is a perfect spooky listen for those seeking a new experience of the original novel. Recommended for any audio classics or horror collection.
Harrow weaves an intricately plotted gothic fairy tale featuring emotionally complex characters, brought to life through Naudus’s skillful narration. Fans of T. Kingfisher’s gothic fiction, dark academia like Leigh Bardugo’s Ninth House, and grim fairy tales in the vein of Angela Carter’s The Bloody Chamber will find themselves right at home.
PREMIUM
Do Tell
Give to fans of Jerome Charyn’s Big Red and those interested in stories set in the Golden Age of Hollywood.
PREMIUM
One Tough Cookie
Though the narration is excellent, the disagreeable characters make this a strictly optional purchase for most libraries.
PREMIUM
Night Watch
A powerful listen for those seeking meditative and haunting historical fiction. Share with fans of Jennifer Cody Epstein’s The Madwomen of Paris.
PREMIUM
Dealbreakers
This audio will appeal to listeners seeking a witty workplace rom-com that turns competition into chemistry. Recommended for fans of Christina Lauren and Katherine Center.
PREMIUM
North Woods
Mason’s enchanting prose, exquisite attention to detail, and affecting characters, combined with pitch-perfect narration, make for an unforgettable listen. This is a treat from start to finish.
PREMIUM
The Seven Year Slip
Poston (The Dead Romantics) deftly weaves the magical apartment into the story and pulls off a spectacular happily-ever-after. For fans of Emily Henry and Abby Jimenez.
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