Author: Samm Saxby

8 of the Best New Romance Audiobooks to Listen to This Summer

Post author By Samm Saxby
Post date July 9, 2024

Sponsored by

This post is written by Nikki DeMarco.

During the full swing of summer, there’s nothing quite like listening to an audiobook to fully embrace the essence of the season. It’s the time of year for escape, whether you’re escaping out of town on vacation, escaping the heat with a staycation, or escaping reality by starting a new book. Put on your earbuds and sunscreen, because these steamy romances are guaranteed to transport you to a world of beachside flirtations, unforgettable adventures, and love stories that sizzle hotter than the summer sun. Think heartwarming reunions under a starlit sky and unforgettable characters embarking on journeys of love and self-discovery: everything romance readers love. From rivals-to-lovers tropes to heartwarming second-chance romances, this list offers something for every romance audiobook lover.

This curated selection highlights some of the swooniest books of 2024. Even more than that, they are narrated by talented voices that bring the characters and their love stories to life. So, if you’re searching for an audiobook that promises an emotional journey and a happily ever after, look no further. It’s time to grab your headphones, pack a beach bag (or staycation essentials!), and get ready to crush on the hottest romance audiobooks of 2024. Let’s get into it!

audiobook cover of Curvy Girl Summer by Danielle Allen

Curvy Girl Summer by Danielle Allen, Narrated by Wesleigh Siobhan

Aaliyah is on the cusp of her 30th birthday and wants a date to her birthday party so her family can shut up about her being single already. Her first attempt went awry, so her friends and the local bartender, Ahmad, help her set up an online dating profile. The apps aren’t easy for a big, confident, Black woman to navigate, especially with fetishizing, catfishing, and all the lying going on. Aaliyah is determined not to settle on her dreams for herself or her standards. All she really needs to do is open her eyes to what’s right in front of her.

audiobook cover of A Novel Love Story by Ashley Poston

A Novel Love Story by Ashley Poston, Narrated by Dorothy Dillingham Blue & Ashley Poston

Eileen Merriweather loves a good romance novel where there are HEAs and not women jilted at the alter, like she was. Having hidden out at home long enough, she decides to go on her book club’s annual retreat. On the way, her car breaks down in Eloraton, the picturesque small town setting from her favorite romance novel series. The town is stuck in the late author’s last unfinished story. Elsy decides to write the town’s happy ending herself, because it just might be intertwined with her own HEA.

audiobook cover of THE KISS COUNTDOWN BY ETTA EASTON

The Kiss Countdown by Etta Easton, Narrated by Angel Pean

Event planner Amerie is jobless, boyfriendless, and about to be apartmentless. When she runs into a sexy astronaut at her favorite coffee shop at the same time she sees her ex there with his new partner, she pretends that astronaut Vincent is her new boyfriend. Vincent is totally down with this, and they strike up a deal. Amerie will live rent-free in his spare room while she gets her start-up off the ground, and Vincent will have a “girlfriend” to take to all the events leading up to his launch in three months.

audiobook cover of The Prospects by KT Hoffman

The Prospects by KT Hoffman, Narrated by Shaan Dasani & KT Hoffman

In this minor league sports romance, Gene Ionescu has his dream job playing for the Beaverton Beavers as the first openly trans athlete in pro baseball. He’s happy with the life he’s worked hard for, until Luis Estrada, his former teammate and current rival, gets traded to the Beavers. As the two learn to play on the same team, the tension between them turns magnetic. Gene must decide if he’s happy with his minor league life or if he needs some major league changes.

audiobook cover of How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang, Narrated by Katharine Chin & Andrew Eiden

Helen Zhang never thought she’d see her high school classmate Grant Shepard again, and that suited her just fine. When her YA novel series is optioned for the screen, Grant is one of the lead writers on the screenplay, forcing them to work together. They decide not to tell the other writers about the tragic accident from their past. The more time they spend together, the more they realize that their high school ideas of each other aren’t representative of who they have become…and what might become between them.

audiobook cover of A SHORE THING BY JOANNA LOWELL

A Shore Thing by Joanna Lowell, Narrated by Ros Watt

Kit Griffith is starting new in Cornwall with an identity that finally fits him. He knew that leaving his all-women artist community would be difficult, but didn’t think he’d lose painting altogether. Instead, he pursues another interest: selling and riding bicycles. Botanist Muriel Pendrake seeks Kit out to commission him to illustrate British seaweed for her before leaving for New York. He knows he shouldn’t, but this could be his opportunity to show an all-male cycling league that women can ride just as well, if not better, than men. The two agree to help each other. Practice beachside rides turn into Muriel and Kit growing closer. This is a slow burn that you won’t be able to put down.

audiobook cover of ISABEL AND THE ROGUE BY LIANA DE LA ROSA

Isabel and the Rogue by Liana De la Rosa, Narrated by Ruby Hunt

Isabel Luna Valdés feels like the forgotten Luna sister and is determined not to let that stop her from helping Mexico gather information that could aid it during the French Occupation. She’s able to easily slip away from the ton during the season and into libraries and offices to find secrets. Meanwhile, Captain Sirius Dawson is a spy for the British Home Office. He gains politicians’ trust and trysts with knowledgeable ladies. His keen instincts help him identify what Isabel is doing, but she escapes his every attempt to catch her. The attraction between them is strong, and when secrets are revealed, Isabel has to decide if she is loyal to her country or to her heart.

audiobook cover of Four Eids and a Funeral by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé & Adiba Jaigirdar

Four Eids and a Funeral by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé & Adiba Jaigirdar, Narrated by Farah Kidwai, Sandra Okuboyejo & Shahjehan Khan

Tiwa and Said used to be best friends, and when Said goes to a boarding school out of town, it all but seals their ex-bestie fate. Unexpectedly, Said returns home for the summer so he can attend the funeral of his favorite librarian. Since Tiwa and Said go to the same Islamic Center, avoiding each other isn’t so easy. When the center accidentally catches fire, the mayor decides to bulldoze the whole thing. Tiwa is devastated, then determined to save it with Said’s help. Their attempt to save the building is the last chance they have to save their relationship as well.

If you want to get more audiobook recommendations, but sure to check out Audible’s best audiobooks of 2024 so far.

The Kids Are All Right

Hey, I Recognize that Name: 8 Celebrity Picture Books Worth Reading

Post author By Samm Saxby
Post date June 20, 2024

Sponsored by

This post is written by Rachel Rosenberg.

There are a lot of celeb-penned children’s books out in the world, written with varying levels of goodness. After all, not all writers are created equal, but publishers are unlikely to turn down aspiring picture book writers who already have fans and clout. So, how do you find which celebrity picture books are worth reading? I have done the work and read many of them, and now I’ll give you my picks.

My choices aren’t about the figures personally—some famous folks whose acting work I love have written kids’ books that I’ve read but won’t revisit. While some of the books on this list are by celebs I’m indifferent to in general, I love their books because they come from storytellers with genuine charm, insight, and panache.

So these eight books are my favourites, pairing well-written stories with an appealing voice and purpose. Plus, they’re matched with beautiful illustrations that elevate and complement the words.

The Enchanted Symphony by Julie Andrews, Emma Walton Hamilton, and Elly MacKay

This one inspired a real love-fest on the Children’s Librarian staff chat at work, we all loved it. Piccolino’s father is a maestro at their village’s opera house. Their home is busy and popular; that is, until a mysterious mist blankets everything and sends all the people home for an extended stay. When Piccolino and his father figure out a way to bring joy back to the village, the fog disappears. Andrews was inspired by how arts and nature brought people joy during the pandemic, and her story reflects that movingly.

The Sissy Duckling by Harvey Fierstein and Henry Cole

I’m a Fierstein fanatic, and this 2002 picture book of his does not disappoint. Elmer is a happy duckling who loves make-believe and cookie decorating. Sadly, he can’t find other boy ducklings who enjoy the same types of play, so his disappointed dad tries to coach Elmer in sports. Using wit and whimsy, Fierstein’s duckling hero finds the strength to confidently follow his heart and proudly be the duck he is.

cover of Sulwe by Lupita Nyong'o, illustrated by Vashti Harrison

Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’o and Vashti Harrison

Nyong’o’s picture book is about a little girl named Sulwe, who struggles because her skin is darker than that of her parents and sister. She is self-conscious that it makes her less appealing to friends at school. The illustrations beautifully capture Nyong’o’s text, which portrays an important experience with nuance and sensitivity.

Please, Baby, Please by Spike Lee, Tonya Lewis Lee, and Kadir Nelson

Simple, repetition-heavy text accompanied by Nelson’s gorgeous illustrations makes this a win. Exhausted but loving parents plead with their little one to eat her peas, share her toys, and go back to bed. And as the parent of a newborn, I found the parental bargaining very relatable. All of that made for a funny, baby-friendly picture book.

Cover of Bompa's Insect Exhibition by Suzuki

Bompa’s Insect Expedition by David Suzuki, Tanya Lloyd Kyi, and Qin Leng

Suzuki, a famous scientist and environmentalist, co-wrote a nonfiction picture book about two children and their grandfather exploring nature together. Bompa and the twins, Nakina and Kaoru, wander around the backyard and examine insects. The twins ask questions that Bompa replies to with accessible information. Leng’s art is charming and provides silliness to the fact-based text, making the book fun to read and a great learning tool.

The Book With No Pictures by B. J. Novak

This book goes over bananas popular with kiddos, it’s a surefire hit during story times. True to its title, there are no pictures, but large font, nonsense words, and interactive text all combine to make this book the equivalent of child catnip.

Remember to Dream, Ebere by Cynthia Erivo and Charnelle Pinkney Barlow

Every night, before bed, Ebere’s mother reminds her to dream. Ebere’s imagination is vast, and with each subsequent sleep, she fills out the details of her nighttime dreams. Erivo’s text is simple and calm, with gentle repetition, and the illustrations are playful and endearing.

The Further Tale of Peter Rabbit by Emma Thompson and Eleanor Taylor

Did you know that Emma Thompson wrote multiple Peter Rabbit books? This one was the first, written in conjunction with Peter’s 110th anniversary, and Thompson perfectly captures the mischievous spirit of the originals. Fun fact: I worked at Selfridges’ book department when this was published, and we hosted Thompson for a meet and greet—she wore adorably whimsical mismatched veggie earrings.

There you go, eight celebrity picture books that are worth reading. There are a ton of celebrities getting in on the kidlit scene and it can be overwhelming to choose which ones to spend time on, but I promise that these will delight you and your favourite kiddos when you sit down for storytime.

The Kids Are All Right

11 Compelling Nonfiction Audiobooks for Children

Post author By Samm Saxby
Post date June 13, 2024

Sponsored by

This post is written by Ann-Marie Cahill.

This is the trifecta of book-related articles. We have the awesome power of audiobooks, the enlightenment of nonfiction, and the best target audience of all: kids. I have yet to meet a kid who hasn’t loved a weird and wacky book of quirky facts and then spent half of their summer holidays telling everyone about it. Even the quietest kid will have their favourite nonfiction book; they’re just waiting for the right person to share it with. Yes, I was that quiet kid, and yes, my favourite dinosaur is still the Ankylosaurus.

Kids and nonfiction books can be pretty magical, but when you boost it with audiobooks, it can become a superpower! A good nonfiction audiobook is almost conversational, inviting them into this world of facts, teasing their curiousity, and allowing their minds to wander through what-ifs while still dispersing information and tidbits. Audiobooks are a great way to support kids’ literacy at every level. They promote fluency and expand vocabulary. They help set scenes for visual dreamers. They help with tone and inflection. Nonfiction audiobooks also create a safe space for kids to relax into the words and allow themselves to learn. While we might not love every nonfiction book out there, there are some very compelling nonfiction audiobooks for children that will have them enthusiastic to share their learning with you.

For Young Readers

Narrative nonfiction audiobooks are a great starting point for young readers. They usually deliver factual information in a storytelling format. It’s easier for kids to relate to the people and their experiences.

cover of A Flicker of Hope: A Story of Migration by Cynthia Harmony

A Flicker of Hope: A Story of Migration by Cynthia Harmony, illustrated by Devon Holzwarth, narrated by Victoria Villarreal

This is like having two books in one, telling the story of the monarch butterflies’ journey from Mexico to northern America parallel to a fictional story of a migrant farmer father and his young daughter. The Monarch is the only butterfly known to make a two-way migration from north to south and back again, but across generations. This amazing phenomenon is told with beautiful tenderness alongside the story of Lucía, a young girl whose father must also travel north to find work. The audiobook is available in English and Spanish, with the Spanish title: Un aleteo de esperanza.

cover of Jubilee: The First Therapy Horse and an Olympic Dream by KT Johnston

Jubilee: The First Therapy Horse and an Olympic Dream by KT Johnston, illustrated by Anabella Ortiz, narrated by Piper Goodeve

Looking for some Olympic-themed audiobooks for kids? Johnston’s historical narrative nonfiction reaches even greater heights with narration from Goodeve. It’s the biography of Lis Hartel, who was paralyzed after contracting polio in 1944 and yet defied doctors and learnt to ride horses again. While it’s no spoiler to know Lis and Jubilee went on to win an Olympic medal, the real story is behind the journey — cliche but true. As an audiobook, kids will hear how Lis rebuilt her dreams and new relationships while learning about the importance of Therapy Animals.

cover of The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read by Rita Lorraine Hubbard

The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read by Rita Lorraine Hubbard, illustrated by Oge Mora, narrated by Nikki M. James

Come and learn the story of Mary Walker, who was born and lived in slavery until her freedom at the age of 15. Only a few years later, she was a wife and mother. Mary worked numerous jobs to help support her family, including cooking, cleaning, and caring for other people’s children. However, it was not until the age of 116 that Mary learned to read.

Cover of They Built Me for Freedom by Tonya Duncan Ellis, illustrated by Jenin Mohammed

They Built Me for Freedom: The Story of Juneteenth and Houston’s Emancipation Park by Tonya Duncan Ellis, illustrated by Jenin Mohammed, narrated by Aaron Goodson

On June 19, 1865, 250,000 enslaved people of Texas learned they were free, ending slavery in the United States of America. It is a significant part of American history, and frankly, it is not celebrated enough. For those in Houston, you should definitely visit the Emancipation Park and explore the history it embodies. But for many of us who can’t visit the Park, this audiobook captures the very essence of all it is meant to commemorate: the struggles, the triumph, the courage. Kids will love the open feel from listening to this book and its hopeful message.

For Middle School Readers

Middle school readers are harder to pinpoint for reading. It feels like this category is ever-changing and ever-growing — very much like the kids in middle grade. These kids are desperately trying to keep pace with the world despite many of them not really wanting to. They are too old for the gentle narrative nonfiction but don’t want to think too hard about the topics either. That doesn’t mean you need to simplify it for them! They can handle complex issues so long as you have a bit of fun and respect for the delivery.

Chinese Menu: The History, Myths, and Legends Behind Your Favorite Foods by Grace Lin, narrated by Lisa Ling

Who here loves food? Every single kid in my 11-year-old’s class LOVED this audiobook. It has been played on repeat during their history class while learning about the influence of multicultural cooking during great moments in history. Lisa Ling’s narration carries listeners through categories of foods and shares the folktales and legends behind the dishes like dumplings, Kung Pao chicken, and noodles. Grace Lin’s extensive research is perfectly matched with an approachable writing style that unfolds with each bite.

How to Be a (Young) Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi and Nic Stone, narrated by the authors

Aimed at listeners 12 and up, Kendi and Stone narrate this book as if it’s a podcast. It’s like reading with a mentor/friend and learning from the natural flow of conversation. This is a journey, in both the audiobook and where listeners will take it from here. My younger readers especially like the inclusion of anecdotes and data that relate directly to life experience, making it sound more like a guide than a lecture.

Cover of Made in Asian America: A History for Young People by Erika Lee & Christina Soontornvat

Made in Asian America: A History for Young People by Erika Lee and Christina Soontornvat, narrated by Sura Siu

Books like this are a prime example of truth-telling in history, highlighting so many elements of history that are ignored or removed because of fear and racism. Asia is a big place with a complex and diverse mix of cultures, languages, and history. The history of Asian migration to North America is equally complex, yet Lee and Soontornvat display a beautiful format for filling gaps, explaining context, and highlighting the future impacts we feel today. There will be many “How Did I Not Know This?” moments, but it may also elicit some fantastic conversation with the kids.

Vital Organs by Suzie Edge, self-narrated

Dr Suzie Edge is already famous on TikTok and Instagram for her fascinating, entertaining, and sometimes a little disturbing facts — “But it was OK!” Her voice has the perfect pace and intonation to deliver these fascinating facts about medicine and science throughout history while still maintaining the appropriate level of humour (i.e., gross but funny). Edge has clearly had fun researching and writing this book, and the middle grade kids will definitely have fun listening to it!

For Teenagers

Teen readers, YA Nonfiction, and “I’m not a kid anymore” are all categories claimed by my older teenage kids. When I asked them what they look for in a compelling nonfiction audiobook, they both claimed they were old enough for “the truth,” but they also wished they could go back to narrative nonfiction and the safe space of audiobooks. It’s more than just learning from the audiobooks: it’s learning about responsibility and consequences without feeling like they are already at fault.

cover of The Ultimate Guide to Financial Literacy for Kids: Master Money Skills with Fun and Interactive Ways to Save, Budget, Spend Wisely, and Invest with Confidence by Money Mentor Publications

The Ultimate Guide to Financial Literacy for Kids: Master Money Skills with Fun and Interactive Ways to Save, Budget, Spend Wisely, and Invest with Confidence by Money Mentor Publications, narrated by Rachel Doolen

Talking about money, reading about money, and even listening to an audiobook about money are unlikely to be top of your to-do list with teenagers. But let’s face it: many adults wish they had some guidance about financial literacy when they were younger. Ignore the cover image: this audiobook is probably too advanced for most younger readers, but it is compelling and supportive enough to hold the interest of teenagers (and some middle grade readers). It’s a fun audiobook that looks at a range of contemporary issues, from credit to scams, and the psychology behind marketing in a consumer-centric society.

cover of Three Summers: A Memoir of Sisterhood, Summer Crushes, and Growing Up on the Eve of War by Amra Sabic-El-Rayess and Laura L. Sullivan

Three Summers: A Memoir of Sisterhood, Summer Crushes, and Growing Up on the Eve of War by Amra Sabic-El-Rayess and Laura L. Sullivan, narrated by Amra Sabic-El-Rayess and Selma Ducanovic

This powerful memoir is written with such warmth and tenderness that I was worried the audiobook would be too much for young listeners. I was wrong — it is equally beautiful in audio format: still able to break my heart but also put it back together, stronger and more hopeful than before. It is a long audiobook, coming in a little over 10 hours, and worth breaking up into smaller bites to allow time for young listeners to process all that is shared. Sabic-El-Rayess shares her story of five cousins in the three years leading up to the Bosnian Genocide. In some ways, it will sound like any other tween experience, but it is most influential in how it portrays normal everyday people caught in all of the lead-up to war. It is also worth reading about Sabic-El-Rayess’s experience during the war, in her book The Cat I Never Named: A True Story of Love, War, and Survival.

cover of The Enigma Girls: How Ten Teenagers Broke Ciphers, Kept Secrets, and Helped Win World War II by Candace Fleming

The Enigma Girls: How Ten Teenagers Broke Ciphers, Kept Secrets, and Helped Win World War II by Candace Fleming, narrated by Moira Quirk

During World War II, a very very small group of people were invited to attend Station X at Bletchley Park, Buckinghamshire (UK). Today, we now know it was filled with cryptographers, debutantes, and academic professors. Less is known about the teenage girls who moved around the premises, helping out wherever they were needed. Fleming’s research unfolds over four-and-a-half hours, showcasing the various skills and the roles they played in the most secretive wartime efforts. Fleming and Quirk make it easy to picture the kind of people who could help in Bletchley Park, including the mix of soft skills and the ability to keep a secret.

Each of these compelling nonfiction audiobooks is perfect for children AND adults. They are all great examples of finding the balance between informative content and engaging delivery. Once you find your own magic formula, it’s amazing how much the sweeter the sound of reading can be. Audiobooks are also great for the youngest of readers! Check out Megan Mabee’s list of the Best Toddler Audiobooks, too. Happy reading (and listening)!

Kissing Books

The Sweetest Science: 10 Gems of STEM-themed Romance

Post author By Samm Saxby
Post date June 11, 2024

Sponsored by

This post is written by Isabelle Popp.

The popularity of Ali Hazelwood’s romances has helped codify STEM romance as a subgenre unto itself. To varying degrees, STEM romances have been around as long as romances have had characters with jobs (as opposed to aristocratic characters). In particular, within the category romance — these are the shorter romance books released monthly in themed lines — medical romances have been a staple for decades.

I love a romance with a cool job. In fact, I did a roundup of the coolest romance jobs, many of which are in STEM fields. And because I love you, dear readers, this list has no overlap with that one. There’s a delicate balance to including someone’s work life in a romance. I want an interesting setting, and I want to learn a fun fact or two. People’s choice of careers can also be a way to develop character. At the same time, their job shouldn’t be their only characteristic. Moreover, I don’t want to get bogged down in the details. I want the core drama of the story to be the romance itself. If I wanted more work drama in my life, I wouldn’t have quit that one job (I’m sure you can relate).

Another trait common to STEM romances is addressing the exclusion and prejudice that are rampant in certain fields. I experienced this firsthand, as a woman with a science degree who has worked in several STEM-related fields. One classmate told me I got better grades than him because of my girly handwriting. One professor flat-out told my quantum mechanics class that women “couldn’t do physics.” And the less time I spend thinking about my time working in the video game industry, the better. Reflections on these harsh realities belong in romance simply because romance explores and comments on the breadth of the human experience.

So here’s a lovely curated collection of nerds falling in love for you.

The Kiss Countdown by Etta Easton

Amerie, on a relatably questionable impulse, has pretended she is with a rando hot guy nearby to save herself from an embarrassing situation. Vincent, the convenient dude, is an actual astronaut, and he plays along! Turns out, he could use a fake girlfriend to appease his overly involved family. Amerie could use a free place to stay so she can put money into her struggling business. Wins all around! They didn’t plan to fall in love, but this is, after all, a romance. Houston, we have a love connection.

Role Playing by Cathy Yardley

More male nurses in romance, please! Also more romances with characters in their forties and up! This book ticks both of those boxes. Maggie and Aiden meet via an online gaming group, but each of them has the totally wrong idea about how old the other is. When they meet in person, it’s definitely weird for a second. But then they figure out how well they fit together, especially in the face of their respective family drama. Aiden specializes in end-of-life care, which makes him a really special human being.

Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade

A geologist falling in love with a hunky actor is the romance novel of my dreams, and yet it exists in real life. Geologist April, a cosplayer, goes viral for daring to be fat in costume, and actor Marcus asks her out to spite the haters. Turns out they already know each other from an online fanfic community, but they don’t figure that out immediately. People who want to read about women in STEM and the ups and downs of fandom get a double dose of nerdery with this delicious book.

Tempest by Beverly Jenkins

If you live under a rock and haven’t yet read a Beverly Jenkins historical romance, here’s a great place to start. Regan Carmichael is a mail-order bride on her way to Old West Wyoming Territory to meet her groom, Dr. Colton Lee. When does meet him, she shoots him. How’s that for a meet-cute? Regan is feisty, Dr. Lee is soft, and their path to love is tender. Beverly Jenkins is the gold standard if you love to learn as you read romance. This book will shed some light on the history of Howard University’s medical school as well as the adoption of germ theory.

cover of The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava

The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava (August 6, 2024)

Ember has stretched the truth on her resume — both about her credentials and her ethnic background. Now she’s in a corporate job she loves, but that web of lies is still woven. When she meets the IT guy Danuwoa, they catch each other’s eye. But there’s a strict policy forbidding dating at her office. So the two of them date on the sly. Naturally, things are going to get out of hand. I love stories where fundamentally good people have to get themselves out of the messes they make! Read this, and you’ll realize that you, too, would risk it all for Danuwoa.

Hold Me by Courtney Milan

Courtney Milan is an author with STEM bona fides, given her graduate degree in chemistry. Obviously the best degree for a romance writer to have! In Hold Me, both characters have STEM-related pursuits. Jay is a physicist and Maria is a science blogger and statistics student. The two know each other via the comments section of Maria’s blog, but Maria is very protective of her identity as a trans woman. When they meet in person, not knowing their existing relationship, the dynamic is very different. If you like a romance that involves the breaking and remaking of a man with some toxic traits, you’ll enjoy this.

Wild Life by Opal Wei

This book is simultaneously so fun and so thoughtful. Zoey is a researcher working on the cure for the cancer that claimed her sister. When a vital tissue sample goes missing, she has to track it down — all the way to the rugged island estate of Davy, a former boy band bad-boy (say that five times fast). While the two of them are temporarily stranded on this island, they really have to face down their pasts and think hard about their futures. All while not getting mauled by the semi-domesticated cougar named Baby. Seriously, this is a delight.

The 7-10 Split by Karmen Lee

(Full disclosure: my forthcoming romance debut is also a Harlequin Afterglow title.) Sapphic! Bowling! Romance! Do I really need to say more? Oh right, I do because it’s also a STEM romance. Grace is a new science teacher at her own former high school. There, she reconnects with Ava, another teacher and her former bestie. The two shared a kiss back in the day, but things really didn’t work out. Ava wants to hate Grace, but now they’re co-coaching the bowling team. If you love a small-town rivals-to-lovers romance, pick this one up.

A Drop in the Ocean by Nikki Winter

Kairo’s brother is getting married to her ex-girlfriend. Truly the only way to handle that situation is to bring a fake date to the wedding. And Kairo’s best friend, April, agrees to play along. The problem is, Kairo is already very much in love with April, and April’s fake affections are giving Kairo even more real feelings. Here’s the best part: Kairo and April are both marine biologists! Raise your hand if you, too, went through a marine biology phase! Raise your hand if you made it happen? High fives to those of you living the dream!

Dating Dr. Dil by Nisha Sharma

Kareena Mann is a hopeless romantic; television doctor Prem Verma is allergic to love. An argument between the two of them about the nature of love goes viral. While they should perhaps go their separate ways, you know they won’t. Prem’s dream clinic will be funded by Kareena’s aunties if he can convince Kareena that she is his soulmate. And Kareena will get her mother’s home if she can get engaged. So they are motivated to get together for practical reasons — and they discover they’re not as mismatched as they initially seemed.

Once you’ve read through this pile, you can find some more books in this same vein. We’ve got workplace romances, romances starring doctors, and authors like Ali Hazelwood. Science, Technology, Engineering, Medicine, and Romance. What could be better?

What's Up in YA

Get Ready to Read 10 of the Best Thrilling YA Heist Novels

Post author By Samm Saxby
Post date June 5, 2024

Sponsored by

This post is written by Silvana Reyes Lopez.

If you’re down for thrills and screams, in these next novels, you’ll find heists that take you to highs and lows you won’t expect, intriguing plot lines, untrustworthy characters, and endings that you think about even days after finishing the book. If you’re a fan of adventures, secrets, and complex challenges, you’ll want to read these thrilling YA heist novels right away.

Heists are very much something people find interesting. It’s no wonder that the Ocean’s Eleven franchise is that huge, you know? We love stories that put together ragtag groups of people who probably didn’t have anything in common and who are later thrown into this elaborate plan to achieve something that feels, quite frankly, impossible, like robbing a bank, retrieving a valuable object from the villain’s mansion, or even saving the world.

And maybe 2024 is the year of heists! We all need a little bit of adventure and thrills in our lives, right? These books will provide that without even stepping outside your door. You don’t have to join a group of misfits who have unique abilities and endanger your life in the process — but you can if you want to! Get ready for epic plot twists, found family, and highly intelligent main characters.

Thieves’ Gambit by Kayvion Lewis

The Inheritance Games meets Ocean’s Eleven in this thrilling, exciting heist novel about a thief who enters a competition in order to save her mother’s life.

Ross Quest is a master of escape plans. Planning to run away from her legendary family, a job goes wrong, and her mother’s life is suddenly in the balance. To save her, she enters the Thieves’ Gambit, a riveting competition of dangerous heists. And she’s not the only one entering. With her childhood nemesis and a handsome, mysterious guy participating as well, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Ross.

A Tempest of Tea by Hafsah Faizal

King Arthur meets Picky Blinders in Hafsah Faizal’s newest fantasy duology, a story about an orphaned girl infiltrating vampire society with her ragtag group to save her tearoom.

Set in Ettenia, a fictional place inspired by the 1920s and Victorian London, A Tempest of Tea charms you with its action-packed, dark, and swoon-worthy story, and it will leave you wanting more!

Little Thieves by Margaret Owen

Margaret Owen’s riveting fantasy starts with Little Thieves. A sequel is already out, with a third book coming out in 2025.

The story follows Vanja Schmidt, the adopted goddaughter of the Gods of Death and Fortune. When the time comes for her to choose a path and a god, she decides to choose herself, steal the life of the woman who she’s been serving, and become a princess. The Gods, of course, are not happy, and she is then cursed by another God for her greed. Now, time is running out, and she must break her curse to save her life.

Want by Cindy Pon

Cindy Pon easily enchants you with her sci-fi novel, Want, a thrilling story set in a futuristic Taipei where one ragtag group of misfits craft a plan to infiltrate high society in order to take down a corrupt corporation. While going through the mission, our main character, Zhou, meets Daiyu, the heiress of this corrupt corporation, who makes Zhou realize that maybe not everything is black and white.

If you’re into high stakes, glamorous parties, and dangerous bike rides, I’m sure that Want is the perfect book for you.

Unseelie by Ivelisse Housman

Unseelie is a fae fantasy about twin sisters who get caught up in a heist gone wrong and find themselves being part of an eclectic group of individuals. Action-packed and full of magic, this novel is ideal if you’re looking for a character-driven story that takes you to unimaginable places.

While Seelie and Isolde are twins, they couldn’t be more different. Seelie happens to be a changeling, and she just wants to learn more about her origins. Meanwhile, Isolde is searching for a fabled treasure that might not even be real. Together, alongside some unlikely allies, they are about to unravel a mystery bigger than themselves.

Zodiac Rising by Katie Zhao (October 8, 2024)

Boarding schools, Chinese mythology, magic, intrigue, and so much more are what you can expect to find inside Zodiac Rising, Katie Zhao’s newest YA heist/dark academia novel.

In the book, you’ll get to meet four very different personalities: a vampire, a shifter, a werewolf, and a mortal. They will have to join forces and form an unlikely partnership to save the Descendants of the Chinese zodiac.

A Million to One by Adiba Jaigirdar

A Million to One is a high-seas YA heist novel that will completely enchant you with a story about a group of friends who are trying to steal a jewel-encrusted book while aboard the RMS Titanic. Following their boarding onto the Titanic, they find out that they might not have been as prepared as they thought so to complete this impossible heist, that will jeopardize everything they’ve worked for if they don’t succeed.

cover of Kisses, Codes, and Conspiracies by Abigail Hing Wen

Kisses, Codes, and Conspiracies by Abigail Hing Wen (August 13, 2024)

Join Tan and Winter in this fascinating heist novel where love and family are what’s at stake. Kisses, Codes, and Conspiracies tells the story of best friends Tan and Winter, who, after sharing a magical kiss at Prom, decide to cool it off, afraid they will mess up their friendship. Nothing goes as planned though, especially when their parents head off to Hawaii together and leave Tan’s little sister with them. Now, they have to babysit!

Things couldn’t get worse, but then Tan’s ex-girlfriend arrives from Shanghai with thugs on her heels because she stole money from her billionaire father. This action-adventure YA novel is everything you need in your life!

Beneath the Citadel by Destiny Soria

One of the best YA heist novels is Beneath the Citadel, a profound, intriguing fantasy book about a group of rebels who are ready to take part in the ultimate heist.

The city of Eldra is ruled by ancient prophecies. Once upon a time, a prophecy told of a rebellion, so the council quickly extinguished that flame. But there are still living people who hold rebellion in their hearts, and they’re not about to let it go to waste. This group of misfits is going to infiltrate the citadel to unveil their past and their secrets before it’s too late.

The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner

The Thief kickstarts the incredible, fascinating world of The Queen’s Thief series. But before you get to know everyone, you have to go to the beginning, and Megan Whalen Turner starts it with the thief himself, Gen.

The book is a heist novel about a thief and a king’s scholar who go on a journey to retrieve an ancient treasure. Here, you’ll meet Gen, a remarkable thief, a mastermind, and an unreliable narrator who will make it hard to know if you have to root for him or not.

Want more YA heist novels? Check out this fantastic list that will provide more bookish recommendations!

If you want to read about crimes gone wrong, these books are the ones you’re looking for.

Check Your Shelf

Easy Ways to Support Your Public Library Right Now

Post author By Samm Saxby
Post date June 5, 2024

Sponsored by

This post is written by Isabelle Popp.

So you’re looking for easy ways to support your library! Amazing. Even well-funded libraries can use our help to function their best. With how many libraries are under attack from censors, this supportive work is incredibly important.

Before I dive into the easy things you can do, I will invite you to consider some of the less easy things to do. It’s not easy to show up at local meetings that affect funding and governance for your library. Taking on a leadership role on advisory councils or local government is not easy. But you know who is definitely doing the hard work? People fired up to remove books from shelves, money from budgets, and services from the community. It takes people power to oppose these efforts. And just because this kind of advocate work isn’t easy doesn’t mean it won’t be gratifying. Don’t go it alone. You’ll find that the way to sustain this kind of work is to do it in community, where you can find solidarity and even joy.

Now I will step off my soapbox. There are indeed many simple things you can do to help your local library. You can do more than one of the items on this list today in minutes. Let’s have a look.

Get a Library Card and Use It

This is the most basic and important thing. Libraries thrive when their services are used! Get that card, check out materials, book those meeting spaces. Check things out from displays! Join book clubs! Take advantage of all the electronic services for ebooks, audiobooks, streaming media, and more. Your library probably has services or materials you don’t even know about yet, so dig deep.

Attend Events at Your Library

Make sure you’re receiving newsletters your library sends out, and keep an eye on their events calendar. The variety of events at libraries is amazing! I’ve gone to mine to watch movies, do trivia contests, meet authors, take classes, see art, and so much more. Bring friends! Bring family! Take a date! Librarians generally have to report attendance at events. The better attended they are, the more there can be.

Talk to Your Librarians

If you want to know about the specific needs of your library, you should talk to a librarian. They will be so happy to know you’re interested in helping, and they will have even more suggestions for you than I do. While you’re at it, get some book recommendations.

Talk to Your Friends

I have always been a big fan of libraries. Even in college, when I had access to a giant university library system, I had a library card at the local public library and used it. Didn’t everyone do that? Apparently not! Ways I use my library inevitably come up in conversations with friends, and their occasional surprise has made me aware not everyone is clued in. So encourage your friends near and far to get a library card and use it for themselves.

Spend Time in Your Library

My library is basically the only place outside my home where I can go to work without having to spend money. In addition to that, my centrally-located branch is a great place to meet up with friends before going out for food/drinks/etc. Libraries have a reputation for being the places transient and unhoused people go to spend time. Mine certainly serves that purpose. If you think it’s weird to spend time in the same place as folks in those circumstances, I urge you to reflect on that. Whatever danger you might think you’re in is likely small in comparison to the danger people living precariously face. Sharing space with people is a first step in forming a community with them, and that space is what the library is providing.

Look into Friends of the Library

Many public libraries have an organization that supports the library with fundraisers and other efforts. They’re often called Friends of the Library. See what they’re up to. Join in. My local Friends group, for example, runs promotions where a portion of the bill at certain restaurants will go to the library on particular days. What could be easier than going out to dinner and funding the library at the same time?

Make Donations

Many libraries and/or Friends of the Library groups run used book sales as a fundraiser. You can weed your bookshelves and give those books a new purpose. Some libraries will also take donated art and craft materials to use in programs — just ask before showing up with stuff, and don’t donate garbage! Maybe your library takes cash donations (often through the Friends). You could give yourself, or you could ask your friends to donate in lieu of a birthday gift, for example.

Check Out Volunteer Opportunities

We know libraries don’t have all the funding they could dream of, and volunteers help fill in that gap. You can help at events, tutor kids and/or English language learners if your library has such programs, or share your time in other ways. This suggestion is at the more difficult end of the spectrum, since it does require your time and presence, but you’ll be glad you did it.

Utilize Social Media

Here’s another dead simple one. If you have your own social media account, you can post about what you’re up to with your library. As an endlessly nosy person, I would love it if all of my reader friends posted a photo of their stack of spines every time they checked out books. I want to see what you or your kid made at the library craft event. You should also engage with your library’s social media. Subscribe, like, share, comment — all that good stuff.

How’s that for a start? As I said, you could take ten minutes right now and accomplish a couple of these. You can read more about supporting libraries in our post about National Library Week. And if you like to show your love with stickers (who doesn’t?), check out these library lover stickers. You definitely deserve one as a treat after you’ve taken some action to support your library!

Swords and Spaceships

8 Spectacular Backlist Sci-Fi and Fantasy Series Worth Reading

Post author By Samm Saxby
Post date May 29, 2024

Sponsored by

This post is written by Chris M. Arnone.

What is a backlist book, you might be asking? Backlist has a very specific meaning in the world of book publishing. It’s a book that’s been out for at least a year but is still in print. This is opposed to frontlist, which is a new book that a publisher is pushing and placing prominently in stores and online.

So when putting together a great list of backlist science fiction and fantasy (SFF) series, I was looking for slightly older but still-in-print books. This immediately threw out some of my favorite series that are too new or have, sadly, fallen out of print. I also decided to avoid classics or other series that I’ve written about a lot. Let’s spice things up a bit, shall we?

This list is a pretty balanced blend of science fiction and fantasy, spanning cultures and space, past and future, and authors familiar and under-the-radar. Some of these books are doorsteps, while others might be considered novellas. There’s a little YA sprinkled in because great books can be aimed at young readers, too. Trilogies abound, though there’s a nine-book series in there as well.

Enough preamble. Here are eight great backlist sci-fi and fantasy series worth reading.

The Centenal Cycle by Malka Older

We all need a little cyberpunk in our lives, particularly when the commentary hits so close to home. A search engine company created a monopoly two decades ago. Since then, the world moved from nation-states to a global micro-democracy. The Heritage Party, a corporate coalition, has been in power for a long time, but an election looms. When absolute power is at stake, who can you trust with the future?

An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir

I did promise some YA, didn’t I? This four-book series was romantasy before we had the term, and it’s a great one. Laia grew up on the streets, forever in fear of the empire. When her brother is captured, she’s forced to spy on the empire from inside the military academy. There, she meets Elias, an unwilling cadet. Together, do they have what it takes to bring an empire to its knees?

The Expanse by James. S.A. Corey

The most popular series on this list is also the longest, coming in at nine books. Set in our solar system but significantly in the future, The Expanse follows the ragtag crew of the Rocinante as they navigate complicated politics, warring factions, and an alien protomolecule that threatens to end all life.

The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie

The First Law Trilogy is a dark, epic fantasy series. Told through rotating points of view, the characters in this series are eclectic. A down-on-his-luck Barbarian, a selfish captain, a disabled torturer, and a temperamental wizard. Their paths are on a collision course that will likely change the face of the world.

Imperial Radch by Ann Leckie

Not only did this series take the SFF world by storm, but it also pushed the boundaries of gender in the process. There is a soldier known as Breq. She’s alone, but she used to be part of the larger AI consciousness for a ship called Justice of Toren. With her larger self and the crew destroyed, she wants revenge and finds that to get it, she’ll have to go all the way to the top of a galactic empire.

Mars Trilogy by Kim Stanley Robinson

Here’s the oldest series on this list, and still one of the best backlist sci-fi and fantasy series you can find. The year is 2026, and 100 Earth colonists are trying to terraform Mars. Some are looking for medical breakthroughs, others for scientific discovery, while yet others just want a fresh start. Amidst the incredible hard science of the novel are the very human stories of 100 people very far from home.

The Nsibidi Scripts by Nnedi Okorafor

Looking for those little wizard boy vibes without the problematic TERF author? Look no further than this great series. Sunny lived in New York until recently when her family moved back to their native Nigeria. That’s enough to make a young woman feel out of place, but she has albinism. Desperate to fit in, she soon discovers that she and her closest friends are “free agents” gifted with powerful magic. They’re not alone — there’s also a serial killer hunting free agents, and only Sunny and her friends can stop them.

The Tensorate Series by Neon Yang

Looking for a quicker and beautiful fantasy read? Then, get these books on your TBR. As children, Mokoya and Akeha were sold to the Grand Monastery, even though they’re the twin children of the Protector. Mokoya has the gift of prophecy, and Akeha always knows how to manipulate adults. Rebellion is growing in the Tensorate, forces moving against Mokoya and Akeha’s mother, and both children must choose a side, even if they aren’t on the same side.

What are your favorite backlist sci-fi and fantasy series? Do you dig into the classics or opt for more recent books? They may not be as popular on BookTok or Bookstagram, but I stan the backlist.

What's Up in YA

8 YA Books for Fans of Greek Mythology

Post author By Samm Saxby
Post date May 29, 2024

Sponsored by

This post is written by Grace LaPointe.

Figures from Greek myths want to be remembered forever, cheat death, know the future, or see their (living or dead) loved ones again. These are deeply relatable desires. Fate, irony, arrogance, and courage are universal concepts, and ancient Greek literature explored them in ways that still resonate today.

Immortals who can become mortal and demigods (the children of gods and humans) still inspire today’s immortal fantasy characters. From Percy Jackson and the Olympians on Disney+ to myth-retelling novels for adults, it’s obvious stories from ancient Greek literature influence pop culture today. And re-imaginings make ancient stories more accessible to many readers.

Though ancient Greek epics, poetry, and drama have endured for millennia, of course, they originated from a specific culture. In 2023, for BR, Lyndsie Manusos interviewed several Greek authors on their opinions about Greek myth retellings. They all said diverse retellings are important, which should include renditions by modern Greek authors. Ancient Greek literature and history were central to 18^th and 19^th-century British and U.S. educations and still get co-opted by white supremacists. A culture is not a vibe or aesthetic.

If you love Greek mythology, these books below have elements that may also appeal to you. They’re not all strict retellings. Some are inspired by ancient Greek myths in subtler ways or use their names, themes, and figures in modern settings.

This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron

Helping out in her mom’s nursery, Briseis discovers she can make plants bloom. She inherits an estate from her aunt and uncovers even more secrets. The setting is Gothic and modern, but it also incorporates the elixir of immortality and other ideas and figures from Greek mythology. Briseis’ name originates from a prisoner of war in The Iliad. The original Briseis has no agency and is trafficked from one powerful man to another. So, it’s great to find such a powerful character with that name.

Lore by Alexandra Bracken

If you’ve ever imagined how gods might feel when they become mortal, or vice versa, you might love this book. It has a unique take on the demigods and generational curses of ancient Greek mythology. On a seven-year cycle, nine gods turn mortal, so descendants of human heroes, like Achilles, can hunt them. This is an urban fantasy set in modern NYC with vivid characters. The hunt, the Agon, is named after the main conflict in ancient Greek drama.

Spin by Rebecca Caprara

This YA fantasy-in-verse has a protagonist who’s often overlooked, even among retellings. Arachne’s mother teaches her to weave and tells her stories of the gods and goddesses. The book also mentions concepts from ancient Greek drama: hubris (arrogance) and hamartia (a character’s tragic flaw). These become relevant to Arachne’s story when she says her tapestries are better than Athena’s. The details are vivid, and the subject and structure of this book are unique. Maybe skip this one if you have a strong phobia of spiders, though!

Daughter of Sparta by Claire M. Andrews

Historians think Spartan women had more freedom than women from other ancient Greek city-states and were taught to handle weapons. This allows Daphne to replace her brother in a competition, though she’s still one of the mothakes (outsiders). The goddess Artemis needs Daphne’s help. This novel is partly inspired by the story of Daphne and Apollo. In Roman poet Ovid’s version of the myth, Daphne was turned into a laurel tree to avoid being raped by Apollo. Many ancient myths, like this one, have fascinating potential for YA and feminist retellings.

Icarus by K. Ancrum

This is a contemporary thriller inspired by the myth of Icarus and his inventor father, Daedalus. In the myth, Daedalus makes wax wings for Icarus, who flies too close to the sun. In this novel, Icarus’ father, Angus, is an art forger, and Icarus steals originals and replaces them with Angus’ imitations. As metaphors, the danger and arrogance of flying too near the sun fit the art heist premise perfectly. I also recommend Darling, Ancrum’s modern crime thriller that reimagines Peter Pan.

The Star-Touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi

Maya, the raja’s daughter, is cursed, according to astrology. When one of her father’s wives dies, the other wives blame Maya. In this interview, the author explained that her Filipine and Indian heritage, as well as the ancient Greek myth of Hades and Persephone, inspired the book. Maya’s kingdom, Bharata, shares a name with a legendary emperor from Sanskrit texts, and characters can be reincarnated.

Never Look Back by Lilliam Rivera

This Pura Belpré Honor book is a retelling of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth set in The Bronx in recent times. Eury moved to NYC from Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria in 2017. The novel has alternating chapters narrated by Pheus and Eury, whose names play on Orpheus and Eurydice. Pheus is a musician (a guitarist and songwriter), like the bard Orpheus with his lyre. Literally and figuratively, never looking back is important to the myth, and it fits the young protagonists’ journeys.

House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig

This novel is a retelling of the fairy tale The Twelve Dancing Princesses, which was recorded by the Brothers Grimm. Annaleigh’s sisters are cursed to dance every night past the point of exhaustion. This book blends genres: horror, mystery, portal fantasy, and more. The names and atmosphere draw from Edgar Allan Poe. Although it’s NOT a Greek myth retelling, the gods and world-building are reminiscent of ancient Greek mythology. Annaleigh’s family lives on an island and worships nautical gods. Their main god reminded me of Poseidon. Like the ancient Greek gods, their gods walk among humans, and they are often petty. Some are even half-human demigods.

More on Ancient Greek Myths:

In 2020, BR listed 50 must-read books on Greek myths, divided by genre and age category.

The Fright Stuff

It Takes Boo to Make Haunting Go Right: 8 Terrifying Horror Short Story Collections

Post author By Samm Saxby
Post date May 22, 2024

Sponsored by

This post is written by Liberty Hardy.

If you are reading this, it is probably safe to assume you enjoy being scared. WOO HOO! One of us! One of us! Horror stories are so much fun, especially when you can get a whole Gremlin-sized chunk of them at a time. It’s more bang for your “OH, F—!” Those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer are almost upon us, which means camping (watch out for monsters!), beach visits (watch out for sharks!), and road trips (watch out for serial killers!). And a collection of stories is perfect for this time of year when you can read just one or two in between summer activities. So, we are offering you this list of eight terrifying horror short story collections to give you chills in the warm weather.

Obviously, what scares people is different for every person, and there are a LOT of amazing horror story writers out there — Stephen King and Shirley Jackson go without saying. They’re masters and two of the most famous scary storywriters. These books on this list are some more of our favorites, each book with varying terrors and turmoil to keep your brain twisting while you try to sleep. There’s a little something horrifying between these for all you ghouls and goblins, so hold on to your butts and get ready to get scared!

When Things Get Dark: Stories Inspired by Shirley Jackson edited by Ellen Datlow

Eighteen of today’s greatest writers of the murderous and macabre tackle Shirley Jackson with their tributes to the Queen of Horror. This book, edited by the legendary Ellen Datlow, includes tales by Josh Malerman, Carmen Maria Machado, Paul Tremblay, Stephen Graham Jones, Kelly Link, Cassandra Khaw, and Seanan McGuire. They’re filled with torment, hauntings, torture, dismemberment, unease, and a bowl of beef stew you should really avoid.

Ghost Summer: Stories by Tananarive Due

Welcome to Terror Town — population: you! These are 15 stories and a novella set around strange happenings in rural settings, and they’re all so unnerving that it’s hard to tell if it’s worse to go in the house, in the lake, or in the woods! This one is a freezer book, for sure. And Due’s most recent novel, The Reformatory, is one of the greatest recent horror novels and is based on a story mentioned in this collection.

Smashed by Junji Ito

Junji Ito is the king of horror comics. He manages to portray so much creepiness and disturbing imagery in each panel. This collection contains stories about bats (and not cute ones), ghosts, a haunted house, and more disgusting, frightening events than you can shake a stick at. If you’ve never read Ito before, you should know that nothing is off limits — and it’s all drawn out for you. When people want really messed up stuff to read, this is where we point them.

Entropy in Bloom by Jeremy Robert Johnson

If you like your horror on the more surreal side, JRJ is the author for you. These are like X-Files cases soaked in Red Bull inside Clive Barker’s skull. There’s a parasite making itself at home in a man’s body, extreme body modification, apocalypses, crime, and more. You will love and pet this collection and call George, and also wonder, “Jeremy Robert Johnson, wtf is wrong with you?!?” (Be sure to also pick up Skullcrack City!)

The Ones That Got Away by Stephen Graham Jones

Surely if you are a horror fan, you know of Stephen Graham Jones by now. He’s one of the most awesome writers of the 21st century. And so freaking prolific! Most recently, he published the Indian Lake horror trilogy about a horror-loving young woman and horror tropes. (I’m going to say horror again: horror.) This is one of his many collections, with literal heartbreak, a haunted baby monitor, a disaster after a shipwreck, things in the woods, and so, so many scares you’ll want to read this in public.

The Wide, Carnivorous Sky and Other Monstrous Geographies by John Langan

Another widely lauded horror writer of the last decade is John Langan. Some of these horror tales feature the familiar, like zombies, vampires, and werewolves, but all in frightening, unique takes. And there’s also plenty of flat-out weird and shiver-inducing stuff you have never imagined before. (And, if you want to read an excellent horror novel, be sure to grab Langan’s The Fisherman.)

This Strange Way of Dying: Stories of Magic, Desire & the Fantastic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a Book Riot favorite! Her last few novels have delivered vampires, curses, frightening fungi, and mad scientists. This is an older book, a weird and wild collection of tales inspired by Mexican folklore. There are legends involving scorpions, a skull tree, vampires, skin shedders, and possibly most frightening of all, giant penguins. (Come on, you know you’d freak if you encountered one.)

Revenge: Eleven Dark Tales by Yoko Ogawa, Stephen Snyder (translator)

And last but not least, what should already be being considered a modern classic. No Book Riot list of horror stories is complete without it! Ogawa did a complete 180 turn from her beautiful, sad novel The Housekeeper and the Professor with this collection of really messed up stories of…you know. R-E-V-E-N-G-E (Find out what it means to me…). There’s a new tenant who learns her landlord is a murderess; a surgeon interested in a singer’s unusual heart; a jealous lover plotting her beloved’s demise; a neglected house that is home to a collection of horrifying implements. All these connected tales and more comprise this creepy collection!

For more great horror book recommendations, check out 8 of the Most Polarizing Horror Novels Ever Written and Horror Comics That’ll Give You the Chills, and be sure to sign up for our horror newsletter The Fright Stuff!

The Stack

Comics About Taking a Different Life Path

Post author By Samm Saxby
Post date May 22, 2024

Sponsored by

This post is written by Eileen Gonzalez.

This has almost certainly happened to you: you find a routine that you like and are comfortable with, and you settle into it for what you hope is the long haul. Then, when you’re minding your own business, WHAM. Life decides to throw a curve right into your face, and you’ve got to find a new routine all over again — one that will undoubtedly get upended in due course.

Dealing with unexpected and unwanted changes — whether caused by health issues, familial expectations, societal norms, or personal goals — is just a part of life. It can be very stressful, but it can be exciting as well! Walking new paths allows you to learn more about yourself and the world. While it is frustrating if such a change prevents you from achieving a longed-for ambition, you can never tell when you might find a new dream to pursue or even a different path toward the original dream you thought you had to abandon.

From memoirs by real people who faced sudden challenges to stories that teach younger readers about the importance of forging their own identity, these eight comics offer heartfelt explorations of what it means to find your true purpose in life, even — and especially — when it is not the purpose you envisioned for yourself.

Art Club by Rashad Doucet

Dale loves art so much that he wants to make it his career. But, his parents and his vice principal all view art as a distracting hobby at best and urge him to spend his time on more serious subjects. Undeterred, Dale sets out to create a school art club and prove that his passion is worthy of respect, support, and nurturing — and makes some great new friends along the way, too.

cover of Chef's Kiss by Jarrett Melendez

Chef’s Kiss by Jarrett Melendez and Danica Brine

Ben really wants to be a writer. Perhaps more importantly, Ben’s parents want him to be one, too. But writing jobs are scarce, so he takes a temporary position as an assistant chef at a restaurant where the success of each dish is determined by the palate of the resident gourmand pig. Weird? Yes, but Ben soon finds himself feeling very at home there, especially thanks to his mentor, the handsome Liam. He might even stay on permanently…if he can face his parents’ disapproval, that is. A deluxe edition of this cute romance is available now!

Gaytheist: Coming Out of My Orthodox Childhood by Lonnie Mann and Ryan Gatts

If you had a choice between your family, religion, and everything you’ve ever known versus leaving it all behind to be yourself, what would you pick? That is the question Lonnie faced when he realized he was gay — and that the world was broader and more accepting than he could have ever imagined while growing up in a conservative Orthodox Jewish community.

I Don’t Want to Be a Mom by Irene Olmo

Like many girls, Irene grew up assuming that she would have children one day. But the older she got, the clearer it became: she had no interest in motherhood. Reaching that conclusion was just the first step in a journey that forced her to reckon with not just her own feelings but the intrusive opinions of a society that thinks it’s their right to tell women what to do and what to want.

Onion Skin by Edgar Camacho

Rolando hated his job designing online ads, but when he gets fired after breaking his arm, he doesn’t have another plan to fall back on. When his concerned roommates drag him out to a concert, he meets Nera, a free spirit who is also on the hunt for a more fulfilling career. Together, they decide to open a food truck and find themselves on the adventure of a lifetime!

Parenthesis by Élodie Durand

As a young adult, Judith began having seizures thanks to a tumor in her brain. Even after it is all over, the effect on her memory, her personality, and her life remains, leading her towards different experiences — for better and for worse — than she would have had otherwise. This award-winning graphic memoir shows how our reliance on our good health plays such a pivotal role in life and how the sudden loss of it affects us forever.

Spinning by Tillie Walden

Tillie spent most of her childhood training to become a competitive figure skater. Skating was almost literally her entire world — until a move to a new school showed her all of the other worthwhile things there are to pursue, including art and young love. But how do you give up something that has dominated your life for so long, even when that something has become an albatross around your neck?

Twin Cities by Jose Pimienta

The days of Fernando and Teresa doing everything together come to an end when the twins reach middle school. At that point, Teresa decides to attend school over the border in the United States, while Fernando prefers to stay in Mexico. As each sibling faces daunting new challenges, they come to realize that they can still rely on each other, even as their paths in life diverge.

Feel ready to take on the world yet? These gentle self-help books can guide you on your way!