Atwood, Margaret. Old Babes in the Wood: Stories (2023).

Fifteen short stories exploring themes of identity, from a modern literary master. This collection encapsulates a vivid and eclectic range of narratives–from tales of unexpected encounters with otherworldly creatures, to darkly humorous explorations of aging and rebirth, to thought-provoking reflections on the complexities of human relationships. Each story opens with a sharp wit, which slowly descends into melancholy meditation.

Butler, Octavia E., Duffy, Damian (Adapter), Jennings, John (Illustrator). Parable of the Sower: A Graphic Novel Adaptation (2020).

Discover the captivating world of a timeless dystopian masterpiece–in graphic novel form. Gripping coming-of-age tale of a preacher's daughter, forced to leave the sanctuary of her home to navigate a bleak and chaotic landscape. As she embarks on an epic odyssey of survival, she emboldens herself to confront the winds of change, crafting a visionary philosophy called "Earthseed" that holds the key to shaping the future.

Clark, Arthur C. Childhood’s End (1953).

The mysterious arrival of extraterrestrial beings heralds an era of unprecedented peace on Earth. However, as the story unfolds over the span of a century, the true intentions of these enigmatic visitors gradually come to light. Through the eyes of a diverse cast of characters, the narrative examines the consequences of utopian society, the complexities of leadership, and the fragile nature of freedom. A science fiction classic.

Ito, Junji. Shiver (2017).

Experience the dark brilliance of Junji Ito–internationally acclaimed master of macabre. This manga is filled with some of his most bizarre short stories–where the realms of supernatural and psychological horror converge into nine menacing nightmares. With intricate artwork and captivating characters, Ito's talent effortlessly draws readers in from the very first frame. This collection features an author’s note after each unique tale, offering fascinating insights into the creative process. 

Kawakami, Hiromi; Markin Powell, Allison (Translator). Parade (2019).

Young Tsukiko finds herself inexplicably trailed by mythological creatures and struggles to understand why. This poetic and introspective short tale examines themes of identity, wonder, and profound connection–all intertwined with the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore. Unfolding as a story within a story, this captivating narrative invites readers to explore the enigmatic reasons behind Tsukiko's otherworldly companions.

Klune, TJ. In the Lives of Puppets (2023).

Nestled within the branches of a grove of trees, an unusual abode becomes the dwelling place for an interesting group of inhabitants including Giovanni–an android inventor with a paternal disposition, and his human son, Victor. When Victor discovers an injured android in a trash heap, he brings it back to life–with unexpected consequences. A heartwarmingly whimsical and humorous retelling of Pinocchio, this book offers a profound exploration of self-acceptance and the transformative nature of human connection.

Miyazaki, Hayao (Author & Illustrator); Dudok de Wit, Alex (Translator). Shuna’s Journey (2022).

Discover the exquisite brilliance of acclaimed master Miyazaki, the visionary behind beloved films like "My Neighbor Totoro" and "Spirited Away." Embark on a thrilling adventure alongside the valiant young Prince Shuna as he undertakes a hero's journey to rescue his impoverished village, illustrated in marvelously beautiful watercolor frames. Drawing from his trademark storytelling prowess, Miyazaki weaves a spellbinding narrative, with incredible world-building–infused with elements of supernatural folklore.

Rivers, Solomon. The Deep (2019).

Poetic story of a mermaid species, who have trouble retaining their memory. Historian and sole memory-keeper of the Wajinru, Yetu, meets "two-legs” and begins a transformative journey of self-discovery. With profound insights into collective memory and the transformative force of storytelling, Solomon crafts a mesmerizing narrative that resonates with the power to heal and empower.  Atmospheric and lyrical, this thought-provoking fantasy is rooted in historical fiction. 

Vehlmann, Fabien (Author); Kerascoët (Illustrator). Satania (2016).

An amusingly horrific tale of cave explorers who go on an expedition in hopes of finding their missing comrade–only to discover much more. Originally published in French, this graphic novel is illustrated in vibrant color, with cartoon-styled characters that provide an intriguing juxtaposition to their dark and mysterious quest. A thought-provoking narrative that invites readers to contemplate the complexities of human drive and the myriad facets that shape our perceptions of life's purpose and potential.

Vo, Nghi. When the Tiger Came Down the Mountain (The Singing Hills Cycle #2) (2020).

Chih is a traveling cleric who has been charged with finding and recording oral histories. In this second book of the Singing Hills Cycle (which need not be read in order), Chih learns the truth of a fantastical shape-shifting tiger and her human lover–a story of forbidden and unexpected love. Filled with suspense, wit, and an exploration of the human-animal connection, this enchanting story invites the reader to ponder the boundaries between myth and reality, as well as the profound lessons that can be learned from unexpected encounters.

Ani, Kayode. And Then He Sang a Lullaby, (June 2023).  

Meet August, a popular, closeted athlete at the University of Nigeria, who falls for fellow student Segun. Segun is unafraid to express his sexuality and soon becomes the target of homophobic acts of violence. (Debut)

Bennett, S.J. Murder Most Royal, (August 2023).  

Evidence that an aristocrat has gone missing-and possibly murdered-near Sandringham House sets Queen Elizabeth II on the path to discover unsavory family secrets.  3rd in series

Brodeur, Adrienne. Little Monsters, (July 2023).  

Cape Cod is the setting for this absorbing, sharply observed novel about a dysfunctional family with long-buried secrets. 

Burns, Valerie. Murder is a Piece of Cake, (June 2023).  

Maddie, a LA influencer, inherited a house, a bakery - although she doesn’t know how to turn on a stove - and a 250 pound mastiff in a Michigan small town. Now a 2nd bakery is opening, but the owner has been murdered and Maddie’s bakery knife is in his back.  Recipes included! 2nd in series.

Canas, Isabel. Vampires of El Norte, (August 2023).  

This gothic, romantic, horror tale of two people reuniting in horrific, monstrous circumstances is a slow burn set against the background of Mexico in the 1840s. 

Dewitt, Patrick. The Librarianist, (July 2023).  

Beautifully written nonlinear portrayal of a quiet, retired man getting through life the best he can. The novel is filled with appealing characters, lively dialog and humor.

Everlee, Jess. A Rulebook for Restless Rogues, (July 2023).  

A charming queer historical romp, in which two lifelong best friends find romance as they join forces to save the one place where they can truly be themselves.

Finkel, Michael. Art Thief: A True Story of Love, Crime, and a Dangerous Obsession, (June 2023).  

True crime narrative of the world’s most prolific art thief. A spellbinding portrait of obsession and flawed genius 

Moore, Lorrie. I am Homeless If This is Not My Home, (June 2023).  

A ghost story set in the nineteenth and twenty-first centuries about grief, devotion, and the vanishing and persistence of all things–seen and unseen, told with wry humor and wisdom.

Alston, B.B. Amari and the Night Brothers, (2021).  

Amari receives an invite to join the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs from her missing brother. She thinks it’s the key to finding Quinton, if she can wrap her head around it. (Middle Grade, in process trilogy, fantasy).

Why: Alston makes everything feel so real and the descriptions would translate really well to the screen. Vote is a trilogy of movies.

Bardugo, Leigh. Ninth House, (2019).  

Alex Stern has been invited to Yale despite (or perhaps because of) her interesting past. Her job: keep an eye on all the rich young magic users and make sure nothing goes awry. Needless to say, that lasts about five seconds before they’re dealing with literal Hell. (Adult, in process series, fantasy).

Why: Bardugo’s stuff has already translated well to screen with Netflix’s Shadow & Bone and Ninth House is even better. I would kill to see some of the rituals on screen. Could be TV or movies.

Barnes, Jennifer Lynn. The Inheritance Games, (2020). 

Avery Grambs is shocked to her core when the wealthiest man in Texas names her his heir. She doesn’t think they even met before his death. To figure out how it all happens, Avery must live with his family and solve an increasingly complicated series of puzzles – and even then, all the questions might not be answered. (Young Adult, trilogy plus one upcoming companion novel, mystery/thriller).

Why: Look, we all love Clue or Oceans’ Eleven, right? Case closed. Movie, definitely.

Carter, Ally. The Blonde Identity, (2023).  

Here, we have a story involving amnesia. Our heroine doesn’t know who she is, but she does know she must’ve been a spy, based on who is after her (which is everyone). Add in a Mr. Hot Guy Super Spy who is willing to reluctantly help her uncover exactly what’s going on and who she is and you’ve got everything. (Adult, standalone publishing in August, romance/action).

Why: This book is the book that should bring back the classic 90s romcom movie with an action twist.

Clark, P. Djeli. A Master of Djinn, (2021).  

In this alternate 1912 Cairo, Fatma is the youngest woman working for the Ministry of Alchemy, Enchantments, and Supernatural Entities. But she knows what she’s doing. When an entire secret brotherhood is murdered, Fatma must investigate, dodging magical murderers, imposters, and more. (Adult, standalone, two companion short stories, fantasy).

Why: Clark is a master and the world comes so alive in his hands. Definitely a TV series.

Dennard, Susan. Luminaries, (2022).  

Winnie Wednesday, her mom, and her older brother were ostracized four years ago because her father turned out to be a Diana, one of the mortal enemies of the Luminaries, the secret society Winnie and everyone she knows is part of. Winnie will do anything to get them back in, including facing a series of increasingly dangerous trials that she cannot adequately prepare for. (Young Adult, in process trilogy, supernatural)

Why: Another great setting and it’d be amazing to see the creatures on the screen. Movies.

Harrow, Alix E. Spindle Splintered & Mirror Mended, (2021 & 2022).

It's Zinnia Gray's twenty-first birthday, which is the last birthday she'll ever have. Her best friend Charm is intent on making it special with a full sleeping beauty experience, complete with a tower and a spinning wheel. But when Zinnia pricks her finger, she finds herself falling through worlds, finding sleeping beauties everywhere. (Adult, novella duology, fantasy).

Why: Harrow has a way with words and I just feel like this unique retelling (and its sequel) would do well as a mini-series.

Johnson, Maureen. Truly Devious, (2018).  

When Stevie Bell, an amateur detective, begins her first year at a famous private school in Vermont, she sets a plan to solve the cold case involving the kidnapping of the founder's wife and daughter shortly after the school opened. But a classmate turns up dead first. (Young Adult, trilogy plus two companion novels, mystery).

Why: Who doesn’t like a good murder mystery? With the dual timelines, I’d be really curious to see how they’d do this series. Definitely TV, one season for each book.

Marske, Freya. A Marvellous Light, (2020).  

Robin is doing his best, honestly, and he’s happy to take a dumb civil service liaison job, until he realizes it’s to a magical society, hiding just under the surface of England, which also comes with Edwin, his cold, prickly counterpart. Robin’s stuck, though, and it’s up to him and Edwin to keep the magic of the British Isles in one piece. If they can. (Adult, almost complete trilogy, historical fantasy).

Why: The magic and the way England itself is a character is amazing. Plus, the visual of how they do magic would be very cool to see. I think I’d go movie.

BONUS “OLD” BOOK:

Pierce, Tamora. Protector of the Small: First Test, (1999).  

Ten-year-old Kel is the first girl to step forward since Alanna the Lioness and ask to be trained as a knight. She believes she is ready for the traditional hazing and grueling schedule of a page. But standing in Kel’s way is Lord Wyldon, who refuses to accept girls as knights. Still, Kel is stubborn. (Young Adult, quartet plus many other books in the world, fantasy).

Why: Look, it’s a crying shame that none of Tamora Pierce’s books have made it to the screen yet. This is the fantasy series of your dreams (and not as dark as some, lookin’ at you GoT).

Jackson, Jenny. Pineapple Street (2023).

A banter-filled comedy of manners about an uber wealthy family in Brooklyn. Three siblings, their partners, and their parents grapple with having so much in a world where many have nothing. Engaging and witty, and told from multiple perspectives, Pineapple is about  working moms, stay-at-home moms, an interracial marriage, siblings who feel misunderstood, and a sister in law who may or may not be a gold digger. Long story short: whether you were born with it or you married into it, money changes everything.

Lahiri, Jhumpa. The Lowland (2013).

Two brothers come of age in India during a time of political unrest; one pursues a life in the United States, the other becomes involved in revolutionary activities. With rich characters, strong sense of time and place, and exploration of family, identity, and political turmoil, this is for readers seeking a compelling story of the complexities of human relationships. An epic tale told in gorgeous prose, of love, sacrifice, and the consequences of choices made.

Lombardo, Claire. The Most Fun We Ever Had (2019).

This story of the four adult daughters of Marilyn and David Sorenson explores complex family dynamics and the lasting impact of secrets. It is an absorbing look at love, loss, and the challenges of sustaining relationships over time. With its multi-generational narrative, intense characters, and observations of the unconditional love between siblings and parents, this is one for readers looking for an emotional and bittersweet family drama.

Napolitano, Ann. Hello Beautiful (2023).

In this heartbreaking story of love and redemption, William grows up in the shadow of his deceased sister with parents who can barely tolerate his presence. He comes to life when he falls in love with Julia and is enveloped by her tight-knit family, which includes her three sisters. When William and Julia have a baby, however, William’s childhood trauma comes back to haunt him and his new family. Relatably flawed human characters will capture your heart in this family saga.

Oza, Janika. A History of Burning (2023)

This sweeping saga, which is told chronologically and from the perspectives of 10 characters over almost 100 years, is the story of an Indo-Ugandan family that struggles to maintain their cultural identity and traditions while also trying to overcome repeated displacement, colonialism, and racism. The story is ambitious in scope but not an overwhelming read; it has accessible language, fascinating characters, and rich details.

Patchett, Ann. The Dutch House (2019).

Danny and Maeve cling tightly to each other after their mother abandons their family, leaving them with their emotionally distant father in their home–the ornate and intriguing Dutch House (a character in itself!). Together the siblings navigate themes of loss, gratitude, compassion, and forgiveness, and this nostalgic story discusses the way in which we find our people, even when our families of origin aren’t available to us. 

Patchett, Ann. Tom Lake (prepub: August 2023).

Three grown daughters return to their childhood home on a cherry orchard in Northern Michigan, and after much coercing, their mother tells them the story of her first love, a famous actor. As the story unravels, the daughters examine their relationships with both of their parents and ponder what it means to be in love. Rife with emotion and rich and hopeful characters.

Reid, Taylor Jenkins. Malibu Rising (2021).

Set in the glamorous world of Malibu in the 1980s, and taking place over 24 hours, the story follows the lives of the four famous Riva siblings as they prepare for their legendary annual party. Secrets, betrayals, and family dynamics abound. Themes include fame, love, and the complexities of family relationships.

Shamsie, Kamila. Home Fire (2018).

In this reimagining of Sophocles’s play Antigone, told with poignant and evocative prose, three orphaned British Muslim siblings explore themes of love, loyalty, and the challenges of cultural identity along with issues like Islamophobia and political extremism. For anyone interested in a passionate page-turner, that sheds light on the complexities of identity and the human consequences of ideological conflicts.

Sharma, Akhil. Family Life (2015).

The story revolves around Ajay and his immigrant Indian family in America, who struggle to adjust to their new life. The compassionately written novel explores themes of identity, cultural assimilation, and the devastating impact of a tragic accident that leaves Ajay's older brother severely brain-damaged. A poignant exploration of family dynamics and trauma; the emotion – in particular, the mother’s grief – is palpable in the story-telling. 

Anappara, Deepa. Djinn Patrol on the Purple Line (2020)

This witty, character-driven debut by Indian journalist Anappara tracks a series of child disappearances from an Indian slum through the eyes of a nine-year-old boy. Jai’s voice shines as the vivid, bright guide to his bleak but bursting-with-life world as he and his two friends set out to investigate the disappearances themselves, having lost faith in the authorities. 

Harper, Jane. The Lost Man (2019)

Setting is everything in this atmospheric mystery about three brothers who run adjoining cattle ranches in the Australian outback. When one brother ends up dead in the middle of nowhere with no signs of a struggle, the others are left trying to unravel what happened. The family’s dark secrets come to light and are made all the more menacing set against the unforgiving backdrop of the outback’s unrelenting heat and isolation. 

Jaswal, Balli Kaur. Now You See Us (2023)

Centered around four Filipinna domestic workers in Singapore, their day-to-day lives, and the fallout that occurs when one of them is accused of murdering her employer, Jaswal’s latest novel is all about the characters. While there is an element of mystery, read this for the strong sense of place and a behind-the-scenes look at the heartbreaking and inspiring lives of these often-unseen women.

Kapoor, Deepti. Age of Vice (2023)

This exceptional blend of literary and crime fiction reads like a thriller that you won’t be able to put down. A searing portrait of India at the beginning of the 21st century, Kapoor follows three main characters representing the lower, middle and (very) upper class in New Delhi as they struggle for power, meaning, and survival. Gritty, but no less compelling for it.

Nagendra, Harini. The Bangalore Detectives Club (2022)

Lose yourself in colonial India in 1921 with nineteen year old Kaveri Murthy, a newlywed with a passion for advanced mathematics and a penchant for justice. Multilayered and multicultural, all while reminiscent of the intrepid Nancy Drew. Perfect for fans of Alexander McCall Smith’s The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency.

See, Lisa. Lady Tan’s Circle of Women (2023)

Travel back in time to 15th century China for this engrossing story of women’s friendships. Rich in historical detail, it’s a fictional account of the life of a real female doctor who is forced to give up her profession when she marries a wealthy merchant. An illicit friendship with the local midwife is at the center of this fascinating look back to a very different place and time.  

 

Shroff, Parini. The Bandit Queens (2023)

Everyone thinks Geeta murdered her husband, a rumor she uses to instill fear among her fellow villagers, but also leaves her isolated and lonely. When a member of her microloan group wants Geeta’s help murdering her own husband, she begins to rebuild old friendships. At turns poignant and deeply human, at others bordering on slapstick, readers will find this both witty and heartfelt. 

Walters, Vanessa. The Nigerwife (2023)

A well-paced thriller set in Lagos, Nigeria, Walters debut novel alternates between the perspectives of Nicole, a British-born wife and mother, and her aunt Claudine who has flown in from London to find her. Amid the palatial mansions and glittering nightlife, Nicole and Claudine discover lives filled with dark secrets,  isolation, and even violence. A sure-bet page-turner with a surprising ending.

Bloom, Amy. White Houses (2018, 240 pp.)

Lorena Hickok meets Eleanor Roosevelt in 1932, reporting on Franklin Roosevelt's first presidential run, and gradually their powerful passion matures into a lasting love. Come for the real-life historical setting and characters; stay for the lyrical prose, wit, and emotional depth that delves into the complexities of Hick and Eleanor’s relationship.

Cosby, S.A.. My Darkest Prayer (2022, 288 pp.)

For crime fiction lovers: Cosby’s (Razorblade Tears) republished first novel introduces former marine and sheriff’s deputy Nathan Waymaker, a man who knows how to “handle the bodies” in his many jobs - undertaker, bouncer, detective. Cosby’s action-filled, “muscular” prose grabs you and won’t let go as Waymaker navigates small-town corruption to investigate a beloved pastor’s death.

Groff, Lauren. Matrix (2021, 272 pp.)

The intense and beautiful tale imagines the life and accomplishments of Marie de France, who at 17, being deemed too coarse and rough-hewn for marriage or courtly life, is sent by Eleanor of Aquitaine to become the future Abbess of a failing English abbey. The 12th-century frame, Groff’s gorgeous imagery, and the magnificence of Marie herself, set the scene for exploring women's autonomy and survival in a patriarchal world. 

Maroo, Chetna. Western Lane. (2023, 160 pp.)

A beautifully drawn portrait of a family moving through grief, which focuses on 11-yr-old Gopi’s coming of age, as, in the wake of her mother’s death,  she trains harder and harder to become a squash champion. Maroo’s uncanny ability to illustrate the emotions that happen between words, allows the reader to feel, viscerally, the story’s joys and sorrows and create unforgettable characters. 

Millet, Lydia. Dinosaurs: A novel. (2022, 240 pp.)

When wealthy Gil leaves Manhattan for a new life in Arizona he carries a secret sorrow and is looking to reimagine his destiny. Can his newfound friendship with the neighbor-family in the glass-walled house provide answers? Millet’s perfect ear for dialogue, straight-talking style,  and keen observations on both the natural and human worlds convey much more about the value of small acts of kindness and bravery than the small page count might suggest. 

Porter, Max. Shy. (2023, 136 pp.)

(I just can’t leave a Max Porter off my short list.) In his third book examining boyhood (after Grief Is the Thing with Feathers and Lanny), Porter asks: How does mischievous wonder and anarchic energy curdle into something more disturbing and violent? Poetic language delivered with visual artistry on the page, takes us straight into Shy’s head, “into the haunted space between his night terrors, his past, and the heavy question of his future.” Another perfectly crafted, tiny masterpiece. 

Roanhorse, Rebecca. Tread of Angels. (2022, 201 pp.)

Celeste is always saving her sister, and now that Mariel has been accused of killing one of the Virtues, a member of the elite caste, Celeste will do anything, including reconnecting with her former demon lover to prove her innocence. Expect the unexpected as the author plays with tropes,, but in terms of plot this highly accessible, “wild-west,” sexy, steampunk fantasy (with some religious overtones to boot!), is really just a new take on a classic morality tale. 

Stringfellow, Tara. Memphis. (2022, 272 pp.)

In 1995 Joan, her mother, and her younger sister flee their father’s explosive temper to live in their majestic ancestral home in a historic Black neighborhood in Memphis where Joan finds relief from the long shadows cast by family secrets in her artwork. Unfolding over 70 years through a chorus of, particularly, women’s voices that move back and forth in time, Memphis celebrates “the full complexity of what we pass down within families and nations: brutality and justice, faith and forgiveness, sacrifice and love.” (Literary Hub)

Tokarczuk, Olga. Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead. (2020, 288 pp.)

When her neighbor dies choking on a venison bone, Janina believes his death to be a kind of divine retribution for his lifetime of hunting and trapping. Almost begrudgingly, she finds herself drawn into the mysteries behind this and other deaths in the bleakly remote Polish countryside where she lives. With dark, wry humor this beautifully translated portrait of an aging, eccentric woman is part mystery and part political exploration on the rights of animals and humans. 

Amore, Anthony, M. The Woman Who Stole Vermeer, (2020).

This book chronicles the extraordinary life and crimes of heiress-turned-revolutionary Rose Dugdale, who in 1974 became the only woman to pull off a major art heist. Born into extreme wealth, she later joined the cause of Irish Republicanism. Leading a gang into Russborough House in Ireland, she made off with millions of dollars of artwork,  including works by Goya, Gainsborough, Rubens and Vermeer. An almost unbelievable story, this book is engaging and rich in detail. 

Bugliosi, Vincent. Helter Skelter, (1994).

Written by the prosecuting attorney, this 700 page tome details the investigation and construction of the case against Manson and his cult of followers.  This case shocked the nation and assumed almost mythical status in the public imagination.  Offering extraordinary legal insight, this book is graphic, fast paced and gritty; it almost reads like fiction.

Capote, Truman. In Cold Blood, (1965).

Considered a true crime classic, Capote details the murders of four members of the Clutter family in rural Kansas in 1959. This book was among the first to look with some empathy into the psychology of the killers while also sensitively depicting/humanizing the victims and their community.  The police investigation and trial prompted nationwide soul searching around the nature of violence in America, mental illness and the death penalty.  Well researched, unconventional and sobering.

Carreyrou, John. Bad Blood, (2018).

The story of a Silicon Valley startup and its billionaire young female founder who  claimed to have invented a blood analysis device with the potential to change the future of medicine.  Dramatic and suspenseful, yet accessible, this is a tale of Silicon Valley money and greed, of hostile company leadership, and of extraordinary corporate fraud that put patients in real danger.  A cautionary tale.

Greenberg, Andy. Tracers in the Dark, (2022).

A gripping account of a team of cryptocurrency tracers who follow the money through the hidden corners of the internet in order to expose the secrets hidden in these murky exchanges. A thrilling, globe-spanning story of dirty cops, drug bazaars, and trafficking rings.  A timely investigation, sobering and thought-provoking.

Hazelgrove, William Elliott. Greed in the Gilded Age, (2022).

Mystery, money, sex and scandal in the gilded age. Drifter Cassie Chadwick conned millions of dollars out of unsuspecting bankers by claiming to be the illegitimate daughter of steel titan Andrew Carnegie.  Richly detailed writing, based on thousands of newspaper articles, tells the life story of a gutsy criminal who almost beat the robber barons at their own game.  Compelling and descriptive, rich in historical detail.

Macintyre, Ben and le Carre, John. A Spy Among Friends: Kim Philby and the Great Betrayal, (2014).

Reading like classic Cold War fiction, this heart-pounding story details the life of Kim Philby, Head of UK Counter Intelligence, who operated as a double-agent for the Soviets for more than twenty years.  Highly educated and charming, but treacherous, he almost got away with it.  Accessible, revealing and fast-paced.

McNamara, Michelle. I’ll Be Gone in the Dark, (2018).

For years a predator terrorized residents of California, committing sexual assaults and murders, and coming to be known as the Golden State Killer.  I’ll Be Gone in the Dark is an exploration of these cases and a look at the psychology of online sleuthing.  It has inspired a slew of armchair detectives. Haunting, menacing and compelling.

Parry, Richard. People Who Eat Darkness: The True Story of a Young Woman Who Vanished From the Streets of Tokyo and the Evil That Swallowed Her Up, (2012).

This book is a fascinating look into the darkness beneath the  glitz and glamor of Tokyo’s hostess clubs in the early 2000s.  It relates the disappearance of a young British air flight attendant - and her family’s fight to find her.  Disturbing and heart-wrenching, the book gives an absorbing insight into the Japanese culture and crime process.  It is atmospheric, with a strong sense of place.

Sherman, Casey. Hell Town, (2022).

This book details the crimes of a little known serial killer preying on young women in Provincetown in the 1960s.  The backdrop of the counterculture movement creates a strong sense of time and place and links are woven between turbulent national events, authors Vonnegut and Mailer, and the vibrant life (and dark underside) of Cape Cod in the 1960s.  Immersive, unflinching and shocking.

Aaronovitch, Ben Midnight Riot, (2011). Series: Rivers of London (book #9
published April 2022)

Probationary Constable Peter Grant is dreading his placement at a desk job, until a chance
encounter with a suspect—who happens to be a ghost—changes everything. Transferred to the
Folly–the paranormal branch of the Met–Peter becomes a wizard’s apprentice investigating what
the regular police cannot. This banter-filled mystery is equal parts police procedural and urban
fantasy.

Bennett. S.J. The Windsor Knot, (2021). Series: Her Majesty the Queen Investigates (book #3
expected September 2023)

When a suspicious death occurs at Windsor Castle, the Queen is convinced MI5 and the police are
on the wrong track. Unable to do her own legwork, HRH enlists assistant private secretary Rozie
Oshodi to help her investigate. While it may be Rozie’s first case, the Queen has been quietly solving mysteries for almost 80 years. This fictional look at royal life is delightful and the Queen and Rozie make a great detective team.

Cambridge. Colleen Murder at Mallowan Hall, (2021). Series: Phyllida Bright Mysteries (book #3
expected September 2023)

Phyllida Bright is the housekeeper at Mallowan Hall, the home of Agatha Christie. When an unwelcome houseguest turns up dead, police are called in to investigate. Dismayed by their ineptitude, Phyllida starts her own investigation by channeling her inner Hercule Poirot.

Gray. Claudia The Murder of Mr. Wickham, (2022). Series: Mr. Darcy & Miss Tilney Mysteries (book
#2 published May 2023)

Jane Austen’s most famous characters are guests at a house party, crashed by George Wickham. When Mr. Wickham is found dead, everyone is a suspect. After determining they are the only two guests who can be ruled out as suspects, Juliet Tilney (daughter of Northanger Abbey’s Catherine and Henry) and Jonathan Darcy (son of Pride and Prejudice’s Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam) decide to investigate. Austen fans will appreciate seeing her characters in a new setting.

Huchu. T.L. The Library of the Dead, (2021). Series: Edinburgh Nights (book #3 expected August
2023)

Ropafadzo (Ropa) Moyo dropped out of school to support her grandmother and younger sister. Her job as a ghost talker takes her all around Edinburgh, delivering messages from the recently dead to their loved ones. Reluctant to assist a ghost who cannot pay the fee, Ropa feels compelled to investigate when she learns that children are going missing and something is sucking out their souls. Ropa’s wit and sarcasm keep the story moving through an eerily familiar yet dystopian Edinburgh.

Montclair. Allison The Right Sort of Man, (2019). Series: Sparks &
Bainbridge Mysteries (book #5 expected July 2023)

Despite their drastically different backgrounds, Iris Sparks and Gwendolyn Bainbridge become business partners when they open a marriage bureau in 1946 London. When matchmaking leads to murder, they investigate to clear an innocent man and save their fledgling business. Full of witty dialogue and vivid descriptions of postwar life, Iris and Gwen’s backstories are just as engaging as the mystery they’re trying to solve.

Osman. Richard The Thursday Murder Club, (2020). Series: Thursday Murder Club (book #4
expected September 2023)

Elizabeth, Ibrahim, Joyce, and Ron meet in the Jigsaw Room at Coopers Chase Retirement Village every Thursday to discuss unsolved murder cases. When a murder occurs right on their doorstep, the quartet use their diverse skills—MI5 agent, psychiatrist, nurse, and trade union leader—to assist police. Each character has a distinct voice, and their interactions with each other and with the police are frequently laugh-out-loud funny.

Weaver. Ashley A Peculiar Combination, (2020). Series: Electra McDonnell (book #3 published May
2023)

Historical details paint a bleak picture of the early days of the Blitz, when Electra (Ellie) McDonnell and her uncle Mick get busted breaking into a safe in a posh London house. Turns out they’ve been set up by military intelligence who use the incident to blackmail Ellie into helping the war effort. Her task: put her nefarious skills to good use by opening a safe containing classified documents. Ellie is pulled into a new world of espionage and intrigue as she works with straight-laced Major Ramsey to catch a double agent.