A Box Full of Darkness

by Simone St. James

Berkley/PRH

    Sometimes you just need a good ghost story. This is definitely that. The town of Fell, New York is not on anyone's list of vacation spots and the three Esmie siblings are not thrilled about returning but feel that they have to when their landscaper quits.

    That's all I'll say, but this is a fun, escapist read.

If you would like to know more about, or own this book, please check with your local independent bookstore or this great place: bookshop.org. 

London Falling: A Mysterious Death in a Gilded City and a Family's Search for Truth

by Patrick Radden Keefe

Doubleday/PRH

    This is a very sad, but intriguing book. How could this child have gotten himself into such awful circumstances? But, do you remember being nineteen?

    The family's response, their search - at first for their child, then for an explanation - is heartbreaking. 

    The picture of London as something out of the Wild West, complete with deadly Russian cowboys, is surprising and frightening.

    Raden Keefe is a wonderful writer and keeps us riveted.

If you would like to know more about, or own this book, please check with your local independent bookstore or this great place: bookshop.org. 

Celestial Lights 

by Cecile Pin

Henry Holt and Co./Macmillan

   Where do you draw the line when you have a duty to family but also see a larger one? This is a thought-provoking and moving story of one man's attempt to find peace with his decisions. It's about family, friendships and several levels of betrayals.  A very good read dealing with issues that resonate with our difficult times.

If you would like to know more about, or own this book, please check with your local independent bookstore or this great place: bookshop.org. 

Transcription: a Novel 

by Ben Lerner

Farrar, Straus and Giroux

    There has been a great deal of hype about this book. I was prepared to find something self-conscious and pretentious. Instead, it's a thoughtful look at parenting, memories, truth, friendships and much more. It will give you much to think about. And much to enjoy.

If you would like to know more about, or own this book, please check with your local independent bookstore or this great place: bookshop.org. 

Lost Lambs: a Novel

by Madeline Cash

FSG/Macmillan

    A wonderfully irreverent, funny and surprisingly heartfelt story of a quirky family who are all trying very hard. None of them are anywhere near perfect, but the story is very close to it. It is a lovely escape from our real world and includes domestic terrorism, blood theft and other unexpected pieces that come together into a satisfying whole. 

    You don't want to miss this one - I think we all need it right now.

If you would like to know more about, or own this book, please check with your local independent bookstore or this great place: bookshop.org.