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The RavenmasterThe Ravenmaster, BookMy Life With the Ravens at the Tower of London
by Skaife, ChristopherBook - 2018Book, 2018
Added Mar 20, 2020
Added Feb 03, 2020
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At times atmospheric, witty, and disturbing, this finely-crafted first novel offers a quick but memorable read that is distinctly unusual. Author Idra Novey's prose is poetic and magical, capturing the feeling of the heat and passion of Brazil.
Added Feb 03, 2020
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Tommy Orange has constructed a polished and impactful novel, with voices long unheard in fiction about Native people. His writing is both poetic and fierce - exceptionally stunning at points. The characters here, underrepresented in fiction, are painted so expertly that their fates will linger long after the book's relentless finale. A new and important entry to collected Native fiction.Tommy Orange has constructed a polished and impactful novel, with voices long unheard in fiction about Native people. His writing is both poetic and fierce - exceptionally stunning at points. The characters here, underrepresented in fiction, are…
The Stranger in the WoodsThe Stranger in the Woods, BookThe Extraordinary Story of the Last True Hermit
by Finkel, MichaelBook - 2017Book, 2017
Added Feb 03, 2020
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Though the bones of this story were covered in a long- form GQ Magazine article from 2014, Finkel’s book is much more in depth, providing a fascinating examination of solitude and why people seek it. He skillfully interweaves references in literature and religion as he follows Knight’s fate. His research on the ground, getting to know the Maine residents and experiencing the woods first-hand, allows the reader to feel connected to his quest to find out why Christopher Knight abandoned society. This is an excellent character study, especially for those who have ever felt the desire to leave the modern world behind.Though the bones of this story were covered in a long- form GQ Magazine article from 2014, Finkel’s book is much more in depth, providing a fascinating examination of solitude and why people seek it. He skillfully interweaves references in…
Added Feb 03, 2020
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Canadian author Susanna Kearsley works her magic once again with this satisfying blend of mystery, romance, and paranormal elements. The setting of the Scottish countryside mixed with the village's fishing industry provides a beautiful and haunting backdrop, and the archaeological details lend an element of truth to the fiction. This book would be a great match for fans of classic gothic fiction.Canadian author Susanna Kearsley works her magic once again with this satisfying blend of mystery, romance, and paranormal elements. The setting of the Scottish countryside mixed with the village's fishing industry provides a beautiful and haunting…
Added Feb 03, 2020
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Author Peter Heller captures the arresting beauty of nature with his descriptions of Colorado and the southwest United States in this suspenseful literary masterpiece. His characters are patently human, both good and evil existing side by side as each wrestles with their past and future path. This is a suspenseful read that is enhanced by a strong sense of place.Author Peter Heller captures the arresting beauty of nature with his descriptions of Colorado and the southwest United States in this suspenseful literary masterpiece. His characters are patently human, both good and evil existing side by side as…
Added Feb 03, 2020
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This first volume in a planned trilogy is a richly-detailed, epic fantasy story with a likeable, intelligent hero and plenty of dramatic scenes to keep the plot going. Readers will be left wanting more of Kvothe's story and can continue the series in The Wise Man's Fear. The third book is not yet published. Readers may enjoy the detailed hierarchy of The University setting and Kvothe's quest for knowledge.This first volume in a planned trilogy is a richly-detailed, epic fantasy story with a likeable, intelligent hero and plenty of dramatic scenes to keep the plot going. Readers will be left wanting more of Kvothe's story and can continue the series…
Added Feb 03, 2020
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This charming novel about the healing powers of music might provoke you to dig out your own vinyl records. Author Rachel Joyce has created a ragtag cast of quirky characters that readers will want to cheer for. The offbeat humor and tone of this heartwarming story makes it an appealing story, especially for music fans.This charming novel about the healing powers of music might provoke you to dig out your own vinyl records. Author Rachel Joyce has created a ragtag cast of quirky characters that readers will want to cheer for. The offbeat humor and tone of this…
The Long HaulThe Long Haul, BookA Trucker's Tales of Life on the Road
by Murphy, FinnBook - 2017Book, 2017
Added Feb 03, 2020
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In an intriguing blend of human interest stories and trucking minutiae, this narrative is a journey that few experience. With humorous trucker lingo and a fascinating explanation of the hierarchy between different types of drivers, this is a truly memorable "road trip" story. Recommended for readers of other memoirs about professions.In an intriguing blend of human interest stories and trucking minutiae, this narrative is a journey that few experience. With humorous trucker lingo and a fascinating explanation of the hierarchy between different types of drivers, this is a truly…
Added Feb 03, 2020
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In her second novel, Chloe Benjamin has crafted a thought- provoking masterpiece which will have readers questioning every character's path. Though there is some graphic content early in the book, this would be an intriguing choice for open-minded book groups interested in tackling philosophical questions about life choices, destiny, and what happens after we die.In her second novel, Chloe Benjamin has crafted a thought- provoking masterpiece which will have readers questioning every character's path. Though there is some graphic content early in the book, this would be an intriguing choice for open-minded…
Added Feb 03, 2020
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An homage to the classic locked room mystery, this chilling suspense novel perfectly evokes its Highland setting. In an intriguing twist, the author keeps readers guessing about which character has been found murdered, building tension as the plot ticks away. The alternating viewpoints between the posh, upper-class friends and the two secretive caretakers provide plenty of momentum up to the ending's reveal. With plenty of red herrings and potential suspects, fans of classic mysteries might appreciate this nod to the oeuvre.An homage to the classic locked room mystery, this chilling suspense novel perfectly evokes its Highland setting. In an intriguing twist, the author keeps readers guessing about which character has been found murdered, building tension as the plot…
The Housekeeper and the ProfessorThe Housekeeper and the Professor, Book
by Ogawa, YōkoBook - 2009Book, 2009
Added Feb 03, 2020
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Sweet with an underlying sadness, the author's quietly poetic writing shines through even in translation. This short novel is filled with moments of kindness and lessons about what really matters in life.
Added Feb 03, 2020
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If nail-biting thrills can be considered fun, then debut author Shaun Harris has accomplished that feat. This page-turning, quick read is also shot through with snarky, darkly humorous quips from its likable protagonist. Coop's escapades offer a great escape full of suspenseful turns, perfectly-depicted Mexican scenery, and a breakneck ending that will have readers hoping for a sequel. This is a rollicking chase on the heels of a true historical mystery.If nail-biting thrills can be considered fun, then debut author Shaun Harris has accomplished that feat. This page-turning, quick read is also shot through with snarky, darkly humorous quips from its likable protagonist. Coop's escapades offer a…
Added Feb 03, 2020
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Delaney's debut sensation is an edge-of-your-seat ride that will have reader's heads spinning with the twists and turns. The concept of a "smart home" -- so brilliantly executed in Folgate Street's depiction -- expertly plays on our fears of losing privacy and control in the one environment where we feel safe: our own home. The Girl Before is a manipulative, engrossing page turner that might appeal to fans of other suspenseful bestsellers.Delaney's debut sensation is an edge-of-your-seat ride that will have reader's heads spinning with the twists and turns. The concept of a "smart home" -- so brilliantly executed in Folgate Street's depiction -- expertly plays on our fears of losing…
Added Feb 03, 2020
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In this short but stunning novel, author Rene Denfeld has somehow crafted a fable, heavily laden with magic and myth, inside the bleakest of settings. Her beautiful, lyrical prose forms a stark contrast against the profoundly disturbing scenes that unfold as the reader learns more about a murderer's past. Her unique story, rendered so truthfully from her own experience working with death row inmates, beautifully illustrates the enlightenment that can grow in even the deepest, darkest of places.In this short but stunning novel, author Rene Denfeld has somehow crafted a fable, heavily laden with magic and myth, inside the bleakest of settings. Her beautiful, lyrical prose forms a stark contrast against the profoundly disturbing scenes that…
Added Feb 03, 2020
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This first volume in the Brothers Sinister series offers up an unusual premise for a historical romance, but also provides a steamy and satisfying ending. Readers will cheer for Minnie as her courage develops and her self-worth builds. Witty banter, plot twists, and underlying human rights issues make this an extraordinary romance novel.This first volume in the Brothers Sinister series offers up an unusual premise for a historical romance, but also provides a steamy and satisfying ending. Readers will cheer for Minnie as her courage develops and her self-worth builds. Witty banter,…
Added Feb 03, 2020
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Author Peter Heller has crafted believable, deeply-damaged characters that still elicit sympathy from readers, in spite of the cold-blooded killing required for them to safely exist in a dangerous world. The story shifts from beautifully descriptive scenes of nature, to heart-pounding suspense, to raw, emotional grief as Hig finds a way to carry on without any meaningful human connection. While sounding bleak, this is far from the average post-apocalyptic novel. Its striking prose in the form of Hig's internal dialogue lends insight into the inner struggles of grief and loss, making it a very affecting version of man in the midst of civilization's decay.Author Peter Heller has crafted believable, deeply-damaged characters that still elicit sympathy from readers, in spite of the cold-blooded killing required for them to safely exist in a dangerous world. The story shifts from beautifully descriptive…
Added Feb 03, 2020
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Reading this short novel's intelligent prose and succinctly crafted plot is similar to watching a master at chess - each movement is carefully considered, studied and made with intent. The seemingly simple story - a marriage falling apart, a difficult court case - is crafted into a masterful examination of human character in McEwan's skilled hands. As the author takes readers into the mind of a family court judge, the reader glimpses the weight of responsibility that takes its toll on one powerful and intelligent woman struggling to hold her life together.Reading this short novel's intelligent prose and succinctly crafted plot is similar to watching a master at chess - each movement is carefully considered, studied and made with intent. The seemingly simple story - a marriage falling apart, a…
Added Feb 03, 2020
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Rene Denfeld has once again crafted a haunting story that touches on the capacity of our minds to help us overcome horrible and devastating situations. Her strong characterizations and lyrical writing style will draw readers in, while the novel's sense of place is so vivid that readers will feel transported to the setting's snowy woods.Rene Denfeld has once again crafted a haunting story that touches on the capacity of our minds to help us overcome horrible and devastating situations. Her strong characterizations and lyrical writing style will draw readers in, while the novel's…
The Boy Who Drew MonstersThe Boy Who Drew Monsters, BookA Novel
by Donohue, KeithBook - 2014Book, 2014
Added Jan 20, 2020
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Atmospheric and eerie, with subtly ominous undertones that build from the book’s beginning to its wicked twist of an ending, this is a satisfyingly creepy read that combines horror with literary elements. The author’s portrayal of remote Maine in the dead of winter makes for a chilling setting that perfectly complements his tone. This book might appeal to readers looking for a spooky novel without much gore.Atmospheric and eerie, with subtly ominous undertones that build from the book’s beginning to its wicked twist of an ending, this is a satisfyingly creepy read that combines horror with literary elements. The author’s portrayal of remote Maine in…
Added Jan 20, 2020
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The author's quirky second novel is as fulfilling and satisfying as a steamy, crusty loaf of sourdough, hot from the oven. Readers will find plenty of geeky humor and may enjoy the references to San Francisco culture.
Something in the WaterSomething in the Water, BookA Novel
by Steadman, CatherineBook - 2018Book, 2018
Added Jan 20, 2020
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Actress and debut author Catherine Steadman has crafted a pitch-perfect beach read with this summery thrill ride full of twists and turns. As Erin and Mark dig deeper into the truth of what they find in Bora Bora, they make one bad decision after another. Readers wanting to be immersed in a suspenseful page turner will enjoy this book's whiplash ending.Actress and debut author Catherine Steadman has crafted a pitch-perfect beach read with this summery thrill ride full of twists and turns. As Erin and Mark dig deeper into the truth of what they find in Bora Bora, they make one bad decision after…
Added Jan 20, 2020
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This atmospheric police procedural will keep readers in suspense with many clues, twists, and surprises. The Shetland setting is the star here, however, as the author realistically depicts both the harshness of the island's living conditions and that of its residents.This atmospheric police procedural will keep readers in suspense with many clues, twists, and surprises. The Shetland setting is the star here, however, as the author realistically depicts both the harshness of the island's living conditions and…
Added Jan 20, 2020
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With lyrical, magical descriptions, author Emma Hooper again captures a piece of the Canadian landscape perfectly. Readers who enjoy charming, heartfelt stories with an element of whimsy will want to cheer for this family, struggling to stay together during hard times.With lyrical, magical descriptions, author Emma Hooper again captures a piece of the Canadian landscape perfectly. Readers who enjoy charming, heartfelt stories with an element of whimsy will want to cheer for this family, struggling to stay…
Added Jan 20, 2020
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On the surface, Ordinary Grace is a coming-of-age story, putting us in the mindset of classics such as To Kill a Mockingbird. The characters here are familiar in the best way, resonating as clearly as the setting of this Minnesota gothic. Readers will pull for Frank and his family, as they attempt to find grace even in the midst of horrific tragedy.On the surface, Ordinary Grace is a coming-of-age story, putting us in the mindset of classics such as To Kill a Mockingbird. The characters here are familiar in the best way, resonating as clearly as the setting of this Minnesota gothic. Readers…
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