5 Books for Speculative Fiction Fans

This week's roundup is all about escaping real life through speculative fiction. These days my world is full-on hard realities, so I want my reading to transport me to words that don't exist (at least not yet). The books I feature today represent some of the variety of stories found under the umbrella of fantasy and science fiction. I hope at least one will make it to your wish list.

Followers by Megan Angelo (Graydon House, Jan. 14) is a dual-time story that focuses on the effects of social media--first in 2015 and then in 2051. While some of the elements will seem familiar to our everyday lives in contemporary times (influencers and reality TV), how Angelo imagines that social media will evolve and change in the fairly close dystopian future gives us something to think about. The novel has garnered starred reviews and is billed as appealing to literary fiction lovers as well as dystopian fans. Opener:

Prologue / New York / 2051

So she still believed in mail, this woman, whoever she was. The first thing Marlow saw when she walked into the building was a grid of metal boxes, each with its own window and cobwebbed keyhole.

Audiobook: Read by Jayme Mattler (HarperAudio; 13 hr, 29 min)

The Vanished Birds by Simon Jimenez (Del Rey, Jan 14) is the proof that science fiction is much more than the Earthlings-meet-aliens scenario of old television shows. Nia pilots a faster-than-light ship, which means she barely ages in comparison to her friends and family, eventually leaving her alone and lonely. When she meets an apparently orphaned boy, something tugs at her, and she takes him in. Others, however, have not forgotten the child, and they may want him back. Another novel with starred reviews and much buzz. Opener:

He was born with an eleventh finger. A small bead of flesh and bone beside his right pinky. The doctor calmed the worried parents and told them the nub was a harmless thing. “But still,” he said, unlacing a small cloth pouch, “a farmer needs only ten fingers to work the dhuba.” He coaxed the child to sleep with the smoke of torched herbs, and sliced the nub from the hand with a cauterizing knife.

Audiobook: Read by Shayna Small (Random House Audio; 13 hr, 17 min)

Strange Exit by Parker Peevyhouse (Tor Teen, Jan. 14) is a stand-alone science-fiction/dystopian thriller in which the only survivors of a nuclear holocaust are in orbit around Earth awaiting the time until it's safe to return to the planet. The people are kept alive in a virtual reality version of San Francisco, meant to ease their fears. When the system starts to break down and supplies run low, two teens manage to escape the simulation--one wants to rescue everyone on board before it's too late; the other decides that only some are worth saving. The reviews have been mixed. Opener:

The San Francisco Zoo: gates rusted open, weeds bursting through cracks in the asphalt, trees like many-armed scarecrows, broken and stunted. Lake figured she was the only person to set foot in the place in years. Not counting the boy in the tiger exhibit. Lake peered in at him through a curtain of dirt over the viewing glass. She guessed he was around her age, seventeen. He sat on a log, hunched over something she couldn’t see. No tiger in sight.

Audiobook: Read by Caitlin Davies (Blackstone; ~6 hr)

A Beginning at the End by Mike Chen (Mira, Jan. 14) is a different kind of dystopian story set in the aftermath of deadly flu pandemic that killed all but about 2 billion people on Earth. After a six-year quarantine, people emerge into public to start over, whether in closed cities, on communes, or in marauding gangs. Amid rumors of another flu outbreak, some survivors learn that it isn't all that easy to make a new beginning, especially when the secrets of their "before" life may be exposed. Another novel with mixed reactions. Opener:

People were too scared for music tonight. Not that MoJo cared. Her handlers had broken the news about the low attendance nearly an hour ago with some explanation about how the recent flu epidemic and subsequent rioting and looting kept people at home. They’d served the news with high-end vodka, the good shit imported from Russia. . . .

Audiobook: Read by Emily Woo Zeller (Harlequin Audio; 11 hr, 39 min)

Diamond City by Francesca Flores (Wednesday Books, Jan. 28) is a dark fantasy debut about a young adult orphan who is trying to make her way in a violent world. Aina, a professional assassin, takes on an assignment that will give her the funds to be her own boss--if she can evade her enemies long enough to make the successful hit. To complicate matters, she must justify her life choices against the lessons taught by her murdered parents, who used their magic to protect those in need. Reviewers feel the world-building could be stronger but praise the action and the plotting. Opener:

The baker’s final words were smothered by a whimper.

“You know how they say you should watch out for the quiet ones?” Aina’s breath fogged the blade of the dagger she held. “They were right.” She took her time with the blade, heedless of his screams.

Audiobook: Read by Frankie Corzo (Macmillan Audio; 9 hr, 59 min)

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5 July Books for Teens and Kids

I'm in denial. It's not the last Friday in July. It can't be! I still have a lot of July books left to read. I wonder if I'll ever catch up. Probably not.

Today's round up is all about books geared to middle grade and young adult readers. Two are a little young for good adult cross-over appeal, but they're cute books nonetheless. All you gamers out there will want to read the Mindcraft book. The remaining books are perfect for adults looking for good fiction to read on their own or with their kids or for teens to read on their own. Let's take a look.

For Young Readers

Awesome Dog 5000 by Justin Dean (Random House Children, July 2). This debut illustrated book is geared to kids 8 to 10 years old. Ten-year-old Marty Fontana is gearing up to survive his first day at new school. Things were going fine until lunchtime, when he learns he is already at the bottom rung of the coolness ladder. Fortunately, Marty meets the other two "zeros," Ralph Rogers and Skyler Kwon, and discovers all three of them love to play video games. One day while playing at Marty's new home, they knock over a box the previous owner left behind. Inside is a robotic dog. But this isn't any old robot, it's a supersonic, Awesome Dog! Antics, humor, mayhem, and mischief ensue and there's even a mad scientist called Dr. Crazybrains. The story is told through a combination of text, fun fonts, and black and white illustrations--perfect for reluctant readers or light summer reading. The book is filled with just the kind of total silliness and fast action that makes reading fun. Don't forget to try to crack the secret code at the back of the book. Some good news: Awesome Dog 5000 is the start of series, so there's more zaniness to come.

Babymouse: School Tripped by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm (Random House Children, July 9). This is the third in the Tales from the Locker series by a best-selling sister-brother team. In this adventure Babymouse is starting middle school and is excited to learn the class is going on a field trip to the big city. This has to be better than humiliating herself on the sports field. Plus the teachers are going to let the students explore the museum unchaperoned, if they stay in pairs and stay in the museum. But what if Babymouse and her best friend explored the city all on their own? Who would know, just as long as they got to the bus on time. Besides, Babymouse sneaked her cellphone into her bag, despite the school rule against taking it, so they'll be safe, right? Of course, after they leave the museum, they realize they aren't really prepared for city life, and after Babymouse drops and breaks her phone, the girls are pretty much on their own. Will they make it back to the museum before the bus leaves without them? It turns out the friends are fairly resourceful and level headed and learn some good lessons about independence and making poor choices. Although this Babymouse story is not told as a graphic novel, there are plenty of illustrations to bring the adventure to life. Readers who haven't read the first Locker books can jump right in. Can't wait to see what Babymouse does next.

For Gaming Fans

Minecraft: The Lost Journals by Mur Lafferty (Del Rey, July 9). I'm not a big gamer, but I sure have heard of the very popular Minecraft game, which is, apparently, the highest-selling PC game ever. In this official Minecraft novel, friends Max and Alison find an old journal that reveals how to create a portal into another world. The journal was written by someone called the Enchanter, and the world it describes sounds dangerous. The kids decide to give portal construction a go, but success leads to a dilemma: stay home where it's safe or travel to Nether where they'll be on their own. Fate chooses for them, and the pair find themselves in a scary place. Will their new friend and the clues in the journal help them find the Enchanter or help them get back home. Max and Alison's friendship is stretched to near breaking as the kids escape danger and learn to survive in Nether. The book includes a few black and white illustrations of pages from the journal, which is a cool touch. Reviewers have almost consistently given The Lost Journals five stars, and if you're into Minecraft, put this adventure story on your list.

For Teen Readers

The Boy and Girl Who Broke the World by Amy Reed (Simon Pulse, July 9). This young adult novel is billed as being a little bit different. When two Washington State high schools from competing towns are merged into a single school, everyone has an opinion. Billy Sloat is eternally optimistic, even though his life has been hard: he's poor, lonely, and lives with his grandmother. Lydia Lemon is lonely by choice: she doesn't much like people and generally doesn't see much good in the world. When these two teens form an unlikely friendship, they begin to change each other and maybe even the world around them. The closer the pair gets, the stranger things become: a tornado comes through the area and a dense fog covers the town--is it the end of the world? As far as I can tell the major themes have to do with family, accepting those who are different from you, and above all the power of friendship. Other issues involve drug abuse and maybe child abuse. Every single review and the publisher mention that the book is weird, surreal, very different, and/or strange. But this doesn't seem to be a negative . . . even Kirkus liked it. I'm still on the fence about reading it, but I think I'd like to give it a try.

My Ideal Boyfriend Is a Croissant by Laura Dockrill (Delacorte Press, July 16). This young adult novel focuses on real-life issues but addresses them through the voice of a seventeen-year-old girl who loves food. Bluebelle (aka Big Bones or BB) is a big girl who loves to eat and especially loves her work as an apprentice in a local cafe. But after a particularly bad asthma attack leads to the discovery that she's pre-diabetic, BB reluctantly agrees that she needs to lose weight. Her doctor suggests that she keep a food diary, which soon becomes BB's outlet for many observations about life. BB is a bit sarcastic and doesn't shy away from putting herself in tough situations, but she also prides herself in being brave. Set in East London, this is a funny, smart, body-positive story about a teen trying to balance health, societal expectations, home life, and school against her self-image, obvious passion for all things food, and zest for life. There's a touch of romance and a plot line involving BB's relationship with her petite younger sister. I love the cover and the title, but more than the superficial, I really like the messages. This novel was previously published in England under the title Big Bones.

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: A Slow Reading Week

Well this has been an embarrassing week for a book reviewer! I've listened to one -- yes ONE -- book all week. That's it.

I have an excuse of sorts: I'm trying to work ahead so I can take a trip with my girlfriends. Thus my life has been all about editing, freelance writing, packing, and otherwise losing my mind.

Oh and did I mention the poison ivy I got while weeding the other day? Oh yes. What a great airplane trip I'm going to have (scratch, scratch). Fortunately, the rash doesn't seem to be too bad, and I've been able to contain the itch with calamine lotion. STILL!

More about my upcoming trip in a later post. . . . In the meantime, here's what I listened to.

Age of War by Michael J. Sullivan (Del Rey, July 3), the third book in the Legends of the First Empire series, continues the story of the deep history of the universe introduced in the Riyria Revelations. Lost? Don't be. Sullivan has written three epic fantasy series, all set in the same world but not in the same time period. The first two series focused on the adventures of two thieves and how their seemingly insignificant lives in fact had an impact on far-reaching events. This third series goes back in time to reveal the pivotal events that changed a world and provided the foundation for the other books. I can't really say much about Age of War to those of you who haven't read any of Sullivan's books without giving away major spoilers. What I can say is this: Sullivan knows how to create believable characters that are easy to root for or to hate. Not everyone lives. Relationships don't always go the way you want them to. People grow and change. People make mistakes. There are dwarfs and elves and magic, but this isn't a children's story with wands and pointy hats. Age of War, as the title suggests, involves bloody battles and politics. Sacrifices are made, people are injured and killed, and few choices are black or white. I love, love, love these books and this entry did not disappoint. I also can't say enough good things about Tim Gerard Reynolds's performance of the audiobook (Recorded Books, 15 hr, 47 min). He gets the emotions, the pacing, the humor, and the personalities down perfectly.  (personal collection).

Bad Man by Dathan Auerbach (Doubleday, August 7): This novel, about the disappearance of a young boy from a grocery store, was pitched as being spooky. I don't do scary, but Mr. BFR does, so I accepted the ARC with the understanding that if anyone read the book in my house, it would be him. He did in fact read it, and here are some of his brief thoughts. First, he didn't think it was all that scary, though he liked the setup: Teenage Ben loses track of his three-year-old brother in a grocery store, and the toddler is never seen again. As his family falls apart, Ben, now twenty, is forced to work at the very store where his brother disappeared. There is a cast of creepy characters who all seem to be hiding something, and Ben has never stopped looking for his brother or feeling guilty. Mr. BFR was invested for most of the book, coming up with theories for the identity of the "bad man." Unfortunately, the Southern Gothic story didn't hold up at the end. He didn't buy some of the reveals and was frustrated by some unresolved issues. The book ends with an author's note that talks about the inspiration for this story. Mr. BFR says he wishes he had read the note before reading the book; it might have positively affected his reactions. Other reviewers had better luck, so you might want to give it a try.

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: 6 Good Books

I skipped my review post last week for no particular reason than I was feeling lazy. Instead I posted extra-short reviews on Twitter. I give you similarly short thoughts today, just to keep a record here.

This was a slow reading week, which is the weather's fault. I did yard work, started cleaning the deck for summer, and had to dig out my summer clothes. It was also the first week of our outdoor farmer's market, which is where we buy the bulk of our food until it closes in late October.

Yay for summer.

Before I get to my reading life, here are some things to look for this coming week.

On Wednesday on the AudioFile Magazine blog I'll recommend five audiobooks that will each give you a new perspective on nature, animals, and the world around us. I concentrate on fun books to help you get in the mood for easy summer living.

On Friday, I will share my thoughts on the upcoming Cinemax miniseries C. B. Strike, based on the first three Cormoran Strike books by Robert Galbraith (aka JK Rowling). The show debuts on June 1, so mark your calendars. I'll have more information later in the week.

What I Read Two Weeks Ago

• Sloan Crosley's Look Alive Out There (Macmillan, April 3) is a collection of essays about living in New York, working freelance, traveling, making reproductive decisions, and dealing with neighbors as well as other musings about contemporary life. Humor mixed with spot-on truths. Recommended. (Audiobook review available soon from AudioFile)
• Luke Barr's Ritz and Escoffier (Clarkson Potter, April 3) is a dual biography of how Ritz and Escoffier rose from humble beginnings to become trusted sources of elegance and good taste (no pun intended) at the turn of the last century. Fascinating and easy to read. Recommended. (Audiobook review available soon from AudioFile)
• Sylvain Neuvel's Only Human (Del Rey, May 1) is the third (and final?) book in the Themis Files series. This installment had me laughing at the pop culture references, even as I became wrapped up in the main characters' struggles to adjust to a changing Earth. Audiobook is the best way to read the series: the fantabulous full-cast performance is not to be missed (start with book 1). (Review copy provided by the publisher)
• Jane Harper's The Dry (Flatiron, 2017). I did a quick reread of this great crime novel set in a small town in Australia. The protagonist, Aaron Falk, is a federal agent in the Australian finance division, who becomes involved in a murder investigation when he returns to his home town for the funeral. Recommended. (Review copy provided by the publisher)

What I Read Last Week

The Force of Nature by Jane Harper (Flatiron, February 2018), is the second entry in the Aaron Falk series. In this outing, Falk is back at his office in Melbourne and has a new partner, Carmen Cooper. They are called to the bushland, when an executive at a bank they're investigating goes missing on a corporate outdoor weekend, meant to encourage bonding and trust. The Giralang Ranges is true wilderness, and the question is whether Alice Russell's disappearance is an unfortunate accident, bad judgment, or something very sinister. And, of course, no matter the circumstances, is she alive or dead? Harper weaves the complex relationships among the five women and five men on the retreat with the spooky reputation of the Giralang Ranges, the current Falk/Cooper criminal investigation, and other factors. Good tension and solid plotting pulled me in, and I was unable to figure out the solution before it was revealed. The Falk books are now among of my favorites in crime fiction. I listened to the unabridged audiobook (Macmillan Audio; 8 hr, 53 min) read by Stephen Shanahan. As I wrote last week, Shanahan has a natural, fluid style and masterfully works the tempo to keep the tension tight. Good characterization . . . plus I love his Australian accent. Recommended in print or audio. (Both print and audiobook copies provided by the publisher)

I listened to Andrea Camilleri's The Shape of Water (Penguin Books, 2002), which was translated from the Italian by Stephen Sartarell. This is the first in a long series that stars Salvo Montalbano, a police inspector in Sicily, and I decided to start the audiobooks on the recommendation of SuziQoregon from Whimpulsive blog. The book is a combination of mystery, social commentary, and humor and even includes some good food references. Montalbano has no problem stepping a little outside the strict confines of his duty and has a creative way solving crimes. I liked his personality and the comings and goings of the town, including the ongoing feud between two mafia families. Despite appearances, Montalbano respects his job and wants to uncover the truth. He seems particularly skilled at dealing with the local community, taking an Everyman's attitude more than wielding his power as a policeman. The crime itself involved a death that may or may not have been murder but left the dead man in a compromising position. My impression after book 1 is that the series is fun, adult reading. This isn't hard-core crime fiction, but isn't as light as a cozy. I plan to continue the series. The unabridged audiobook (Blackstone Audio; 4 hr, 4 min) is read by Grover Gardner, who does a great job distinguishing the voices and giving the characters an Italian and Sicilian flavor without tripping into parody. He delivers the humor as easily as the more tense-filled moments and kept me listening the entire afternoon. And good news for audiobook fans: Gardner reads the entire series (19 books are currently available). (Audiobook: personal copy)

Current Books and Television

I'm currently listening to Rachel Kushner's The Mars Room and reading Julia Fine's What Should Be Wild. Both are excellent, and I'm having a hard time deciding which book to read when. Sweetbitter started on Starz over the weekend. I plan to watch tonight. I really loved the book of the same title, written by Stephanie Danler (though I know it got mixed reviews), so I'm curious about how it comes across on film. The actress who plays the main character, Tess, doesn't match the image I had in my mind. We shall see, and I shall report back. If you get Netflix, I hope you're watching David Letterman's My Next Guest Needs no Introduction. We've watched all five current episodes, and each one was excellent.

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8 New Fantasies to Read in March

Good news for speculative fiction fans: March's new releases offer a wide range of subgenres and settings, and readers of all ages will find a a great story to carry them through the last weeks of winter. Today's round-up includes stand-alone stories and books that start new adventures. You'll also find a bonus list of three long-awaited continuations of some favorite series.

New Worlds

• Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi (Henry Holt BYR, March 6): This first in the new Legacy of Orisha series takes place in a world that's been stripped of its magic. With the help of her brother and a runaway princess, Zélie is determined to restore power to her people, even if she must put herself in mortal danger. Themes of race, family, overpowering tyranny, and love are set in an African atmosphere.
• The Wicked Deep by Shea Ernshaw (March 6, Simon Pulse): About 200 years ago in a small Oregon town, three sisters were tried and executed for witchcraft. The town thought they were done with the witches, but the sisters weren't done with the town. Every summer they seek revenge by inhabiting the bodies of young girls and luring boys to their death. Will one of this year's girls finally break the spell?
• Daughters of the Storm by Kim Wilkins (Del Rey, March 6): In this new epic fantasy series, a king falls into a coma, leaving his realm vulnerable. His five daughters scour the land to find a cure, while fending off their step-brother, who is only all too eager to take the reins of power. The story shares elements with Norse legends.

Young Readers

• Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi (Rick Riordan Presents, March 27): When Aru takes a dare from her classmates to light a supposedly magical lantern housed in a museum where her mom is a curator, the young girl awakes a sleeping spirit who is bent on destroying the world. Rich in classic Hindu tales, infused with humor and feminism, and starring a delightful protagonist this is the first in the Pandava series.
• Strange Star by Emma Carroll (Delacorte BYR, March 20): In June 1818, Lord Byron invites four guests to a villa in Switzerland to entertain each other with ghost stories. Just as Mary Shelley is about to speak, the party is interrupted by a young girl who arrives exhausted and covered in strange scars. This is her spooky tale, which was inspired by the classic Frankenstein, on its 200th anniversary.

Continuing Series

• Burn Bright by Patricia Briggs (Ace, March 6): In this fifth installment in the Alpha and Omega series, the werewolf pack is under threat from other not-so-human creatures. Perfect for fans of urban fantasy and werewolves. Note of interest: set in the same universe as Briggs's Mercy Thompson books.
• Heart Forger by Rin Chupeco (Sourcebook Fire, March 20): In the follow-up to the first Bone Witch book, our hero, Tea, is amassing her power and revenge will soon be hers. Perfect for fans of black magic mixed with a touch of humor and solid characters.
• Lost Crow Conspiracy by Rosalyn Eves (Knopf BYR, March 27): In this middle volume of the Blood Rose Rebellion trilogy, Anna must face the consequences of her reckless behavior, which set loose unregulated magic to wreak havoc across 19th-century Europe. Perfect for fantasy fans who like historically recognizable settings, flawed characters, and good action.

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: The Eclectic Edition

This month is an exciting one for sky watchers. Although it was too cloudy to seem much of the pleiades meteor shower on Friday night (which was supposed to be the peak viewing time), we did go out on Saturday night and were able to see several shooting stars before the clouds moved in again. Next week is, of course, the eclipse.

In other news, I spent most of the week researching a new laptop (PC), and I think I'm now ready to place my order. It's always such a difficult decision because whatever I buy, I'll be using 10 to 12 hours a day for 3 to 5 years. My research took up most of my reading time, but I still managed to complete three very different books.

What I Read

The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens (Seventh Street Books, 2014): I've been meaning to read this psychological thriller for a while now, so was very happy that it was the summer selection for my postal book club. For a college project, Joe interviews a dying convicted murderer, who has always insisted on his innocence. During the course of their conversations, Joe begins to believe the old man. But the more he digs into the past, the more he puts himself in danger. There is much to love about this novel, from the great characters to the action. Everyone, it seems, has parts of their lives they'd like to hide from the public, and Joe himself is no exception. Besides the murder case, themes include friendships, family, PTSD, and autism. Highly recommended and deserving of all its many awards.

Age of Swords by Michael J. Sullivan (Del Rey, July 2017): The newest installment in the epic fantasy series Legends of the First Empire is everything Sullivan fans have come to expect. There are several plot lines in this book, but all are leading to the seemingly unavoidable war between the humans and elves, and even dwarfs are entering the conflict. First, we have the elves who are more concerned with rebellion among their own than they are with weak and powerless humans. Next, we have the humans, who are trying to band together, to catch up technologically, and to learn to fight. The final group consists of a handful of human women and dwarf men who undertake a dangerous journey. I love this universe and can't wait until the next book comes out. The audiobook (Recorded Books; 20 hr, 2 min) was read by Tim Gerard Reynolds, who is the absolute best voice for Sullivan's work. He's great at picking up the personalities of the characters and delivers both the action and the humor with perfect timing.

Get Well Soon: History’s Worst Plagues and the Heroes Who Fought Them by Jennifer Wright (Henry Holt, February 2017): I picked this audiobook based on several recommendations of trusted friends and because it is so absolutely up my alley. This is a nonfiction account of the major plagues that have affected humankind from Roman times to the present. Some of the diseases covered are the black plague, smallpox, leprosy, and the Spanish flu. Wright's focus is on the ways government, society, and contemporary medical practitioners dealt with the horrors of incurable sickness that affected the masses. You might think this could be dry stuff, but you'd be very, very wrong. I was utterly fascinated with things like the exploding frog cure for bubonic plague and nose reconstruction for syphilis. I didn't realize the classic movie The Red Shoes had a foundation in a real disease, and I didn't know the behind-the-scenes history of the polio vaccine. I loved Wright's sense of humor and the many references to pop culture, television, movies, and books. The unabridged audiobook (Blackstone; 7 hr, 43 min) was read by Gabra Zackman. I think this is my first experience with Zackman, who nailed this book. I loved her conversational tone, which perfectly fit Wright's writing style; the way she signaled quotes from the running narrative; and her delivery of both the humor and the gruesome. One of my favorite books of the year.

Giveaways

I have a great giveaway going on now for Big Little Lies: one person will get a Blu-Ray/digital download of the fabulous HBO series plus a copy of the book. Click the link for more information. Tomorrow I'll have another giveaway--this one for a collection of short stories you won't want to miss. Note that both giveaways are for people with USA mailing addresses only.

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8 Speculative Fiction Books for July

Yes, I'm a day early, but I'm already looking forward to my July reading list. Although I don't read every one of the many genres embraced by the speculative fiction label, I especially like books that focus on time travel, fantasy, and dystopian and postapocalyptic worlds. If you're a fan of speculative fiction, like I am, here are eight books you'll want to put on your July wish list.

The Dystopian Future

• Bannerless by Carrie Vaughn (Mariner; July 11): After major environmental and economic disaters destroy the world, a community in what was once California forms a family-based society with strict population control. The illusion of peace is broken when an outcast is found murdered.
• When the English Fall by David Williams (Algonquin; July11): In the aftermath of a solar storm that devastates communication, transportation, and the comforts of modern life, the Pennsylvania Amish continue to flourish, living off their provisions . . . until the English (outsiders) remember their peaceful neighbors and pillage their homes, carting off whatever they find useful.
• Out in the Open by Jesus Carrasco (Riverhead; July 4; young adult): In a world brought down by drought, a boy must find a way to survive in the wilderness, figuring out friend from foe while evading the violent men who are determined to capture him.
• Tropic of Kansas by Christopher Brown (Harper Voyager; July 11): A brother and sister--political fugitives--risk crossing the arid wasteland that was once America's breadbasket in the hopes of finding refuge in the new New Orleans; revolution is in the air.

Fantasy and Beyond

• Age of Swords by Michael J. Sullivan (Del Rey; July 25): Epic fantasy. In this second book in a series exploring the deep history of Sullivan's universe, the world is on the brink of war between humans and elves.
• Talon of God by by Wesley Snipes and Ray Norman (Harper Voyager; July 25): Urban fantasy. This debut novel from a well-known actor is set in Chicago and pits a reluctant doctor against Satan's minions and one of their weapons: a new street drug.
• The Punch Escrow by Tal M. Klein (Geek & Sundry; July 25): Hard science fiction. A teleporting trip gone horribly wrong leaves a man running from enemies in both the tech industry and a religious cult as he tries to find a way back to his wife and family.
• The Alexander Inheritance by Eric Flint, Gorg Huff, and Paula Goodlett (Simon & Schuster; July 4): Alternate history / time travel. During a supernatural storm, a modern-day Caribbean cruise ship is transported to the Mediterranean Sea in the wake of Alexander the Great's reign. Can the passengers and crew survive ancient Egypt's political chaos and return to their own time?

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: 4 Mini Reviews & 3 Bookish Videos

This is my last super-busy editing week for a while, and I can't tell you how much I'm looking forward to having time for my online friendships. I'm so behind on blogs, websites, Twitter, Instagram, and Litsy.

What fun it's going to be to read and chat, garden and take walks -- just as soon as my workweek returns to normal. Although I'll miss this week's 70F temperatures, I'm sure that spring will hold many more great days for reading on the deck. I can't wait to get out the furniture, buy some plants, and set up my little escape spot. I'm more relaxed just thinking about it.

What I Read Last Week

Cristina Henriquez's Book of Unknown Americans (Knopf, 2014): I read this novel for a book club, and didn't know much about it before I started reading. Books on immigration are important in light of today's political climate, and Henriquez's contribution offers a little different perspective. First, the setting is in Delaware, not an area we typically associate with Latino immigration, and second it introduces us to a community of new Americans who show us that not all Spanish-speaking immigrants share a common story. The details of everyday life, both for the newly arrived and for the well settled brought this book alive (learning a new language, trying to fit in at school, shopping for groceries). In addition, the characters' stories help us understand the mix of fear and hope that accompany those who leave home for a new life in a strange land. Highly recommended.

Sylvain Neuvel's Waking Gods (Del Rey, 2017): This is the second book in the Themis Files series, which defies (for me, at least) classification. The novels take place in the near future and mix many themes and genres: science fiction, global politics, dystopia, technology, anthropology, romance, thriller, genetics, aliens from another world. The story is told through documents, interviews, individual reactions, and more. I'm sure the books are awesome when read in print, but I pretty much insist you listen to the audiobooks (Waking Gods, Random House Audio; 9 hr, 2 min). The books are read by a full cast, and the overall production is fabulous. The individual performances are so believable that I truly felt as if I were eavesdropping on people talking rather than listening to an audiobook. Don't miss this series. I'm already waiting impatiently for book 3.

Joan Didion's South and West (Knopf, 2017): I listened to this short audibook for AudioFile magazine (which see for my full audiobook review). I'm not quite sure what to think about this collection of thoughts and essays, which are divided into two sections. First we learm of Didion's experiences in the South and then her observations after she returned to the West, mostly during the 1970s. Frankly, I don't know what Didion's point is, except to say she's comfortable in California and didn't always feel comfortable in Mississippi. Narrator Kimberly Farr (Random House Audio; 2 hr, 51 min) did a fine job on the audiobook, but even a good performance couldn't make me love this book. Recommendation: it's short enough that you could take a chance.

Scott Westerfeld's Spill Zone (First Second, May 2017): This is the first in a new graphic novel series. In the not too distant future there is some kind of event that leaves an entire city destroyed and contaminated with a variety of weird creatures and mostly dead humans (kind of immobile zombies). Our hero, Addie, is a motorcycle-riding photographer who risks entering the quarantined city to take pictures, which she then sells. The profits are used to support her and her younger sister, who was one of the few people to have survived the event. The plot captured my attention enough that I read the book straight through, and I especially liked the relationship between the sisters. Alex Puvilland's artwork is emotionally expressive and does a good job conveying action. Unfortunately, too much of the mystery is left unknown, so I didn't connect well with Addie's world. I'll likely read the next installment, but I can't fully recommend this graphic novel.

Books beyond the Pages

After reading The Book of Unknown Americans, I wanted to know more about author Cristina Henriquez. Among the materials I found, was the following video in which she shares how writing the novel led her to start the Unknown Americans Project to give voice to the many different immigrants to the United States, each of whom has a story to tell. Take a look:

Author Gene Luen Yang, the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, is challenging us all (young and old) to Read without Walls. I'm taking the challenge, and I encourage you to join in. All you have to do is read one book of your choice that is either about someone who doesn't look like you, is about a topic you don't know anything about, or is in a medium or format that you don't normally explore. For more information, visit the website (where you'll find activity sheets and a newsletter) and watch this video:

I'm a fan of author Philippa Gregory's historical novels and am looking forward to the Starz series The White Princess, based on a novel in her Cousins' War series, which focuses on the War of the Roses. This book tells the story of two Elizabeths, one the daughter of Edward IV and the other the wife of Henry VII. The books and the series will, of course, appeal to readers interested in British history and the royal families, but fans of The Game of Thrones should know that the politics of this time period also inform George R.R. Martin's work. The series starts on April 16. Here's the trailer:

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7 Books to Look for in February

This has been an interesting week, to say the least: work deadlines, family issues, and a snow storm were at the top of my personal headlines. I didn't get much reading done, but I loaded seven books, all released this month, on my eReader. I've already started two of these novels, and I hope I make it through the entire list. (Presented in alphabetical order.)

• Gilded Cage by Vic James (Del Rey / alternate history, fantasy): The book is set in an alternate history contemporary Britain in which having magical abilities affords one socioeconomic status and power. Political scheming among the rich and underground rebellion among the poor hint of troubles ahead. This is the first entry in a much-buzzed series.
• The Last of August by Brittany Cavallaro (Katherine Tegen / mystery): The second book in a trilogy that reimagines the Sherlock Holmes universe through the adventures of two teens: Charlotte Holmes and Jamie Watson, who possess their namesakes' personalities and talents. This mystery, set in Europe, involves a missing person and Holmes family secrets.
• Long May She Reign by Rhiannon Thomas (HarperTeen / fantasy, murder mystery): A girl who dreams of becoming a scientist must instead ascend her country's throne, after the royal family and more direct heirs are poisoned at a celebration. Our hero uses her intelligence to stay alive, find the killer(s), and rule the kingdom.
• The Refugees by Viet Thanh Nguyen (Grove Press / short stories): This collection of short stories examines the contemporary Vietnamese experience--as citizens of the United States, as hosts to U.S. travelers, as refugees still unsure of their place in the world. The themes tackled here are relevant to refugees and immigrants everywhere and are particularly important in today's political atmosphere.
• Ronit & Jamil by Pamela L. Lasken (Katherine Tegen / contemporary YA): A retelling of Romeo and Juliet set in the Mideast. This novel in verse is told alternatively by two teens, who reveal their daily life, the hopes of their parents, and their own dreams. A moving and easy-to-access account of contemporary Israeli and Palestinian relationships.
• Windy City Blues by Renee Rosen (Berkely / historical fiction): Set in the mid-twentieth century, this novel explores the intersection of the Chicago blues scene with the rise of the civil rights movement and rock 'n' roll. Told from multiple viewpoints, the story provides a period snapshot of the record industry, racial prejudices, and women's issues projected against a backdrop of American sociopolitical change.
• The Young Wives Club by Julie Pennell (Emily Bestler / women's fiction, NA): Four Louisiana teens think marrying young will give them the happily-ever-after they dream of. As each girl matures into womanhood, she must weigh romance against truth, stability, and independence. An entertaining, layered novel.

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Sound Recommendations: Two Novels for Winter Listening

I introduced you to Jennifer McVeigh's fantastic Leopard at the Door (Putnam, 2017) in December, and direct you to that post for the background information about this historical novel, which is based on true events and set in Kenya in the 1950s. The protagonist is a young woman, Rachel, who returns to Africa after finishing secondary school in England. McVeigh does a good job of balancing action with Rachel's adjustment to a Kenya that is no longer the utopia of her childhood memories. The novel explores the Mau Mau Rebellion and doesn't shrink from the horrors of colonial rule or the mixed feelings of whites who were sympathetic to the Kikuyu. I highly recommend this novel to those who are interested in colonial Kenya, forgotten historical events, coming-of-age stories, and books about family dynamics.

Audiobook notes: Although I had intended to read Leopard at the Door in print, I ultimately decided to listen to the unabridged audiobook (Penguin Audio; 12 hr, 15 min), which was read by Katharine McEwan, whose British accent was perfect for the protagonist. McEwan's performance was expressive, yet it often felt rushed, and her American accent fell short. My recommendation is to listen to a sample before buying or borrowing the audiobook.

 Katherine Arden's The Bear and the Nightingale (Del Rey, 2017) is a cross-genre novel that is deserving of all its buzz. Set in the Russian frontier of days gone by (medieval times?), it is the story of Vasilisa, a girl who can see folk-belief creatures, and what happens when her father remarries and a churchman from court comes to stay in the village. This is a many layered novel, a kind of fairy tale within a fairy tale, that also explores the friction between pagan beliefs and the Catholic Church, gender roles, families, and the joy of free thought and living according to one's true nature. I loved the details of Russian life, the woods, the creatures, and Valsilisa's conflicts. I'm giving this two thumbs up and I recommend it especially to those of you who like your magic mixed with realism and who read fantasy or fairy tales.

Audiobook notes: I listened to the unabridged audiobook of The Bear and the Nightingale (Random House Audio; 11 hr, 48 min) read by Kathleen Gati. This was my first time with Gati, but I can tell you it won't be my last. I loved her varied cadence, good pacing, believable Russian accent, and her well-done characterizations. I was glued to my earbuds. I appreciated that Gati generally restricted her accent to the dialogue so it didn't become overwhelming. Don't hesitate to listen to this audiobook.

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10 Books for Tweens and Teens

I know 2016 isn't over yet, but I'm already looking ahead and making reading plans for the coming year. All the books featured today will be published in January, and although you'll find them in the young adult or middle grade sections of your bookstore or library, each one has adult cross-over appeal. Whether you're making a wish list or a shopping list and whether you're thinking of yourself or the young readers in your life, here are some recommendations to give you a head start on fabulous bookish 2017.

Contemporary Cultural and Social Issues in Fiction

• The Radius of Us by Marie Marquardt (St. Martin's Griffin; January 17): Gretchen, a 17-year-old white girl, suffers from post-traumatic stress syndrome after having been mugged. Pheonix, a brown-skinned 18-year-old, is a recent immigrant who fled his native El Salvador to escape gang violence. After a chance meeting, they bond over their common need for healing, understanding and safety.
• Our Own Private Universe by Robin Talley (Harlequin Teen, January 31): Aki, a 15-year-old black girl, is unsure about everything--her faith, her sexual identity, her talents. On a Christian mission trip to Mexico, she meets white Christa and tentative flames begin to burn. A realistic look at LBGTQ teen relationships and a respectful view of religion.
• The Truth of Right Now by Kara Lee Corthron (Simon Pulse, January 3):  Lily, a white Jewish music student, and Dari, a black first-generation Trinidadian artist, start their junior year of high school already a step or two behind. When the two loners connect, they strengthen their relationship over discussions of race, family, and personal struggles, until social pressures and their past troubles threaten to tear them apart.

Fresh Takes on Old Tales

• The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden (Del Rey, January 10): Set in medieval Russia, this unique fairy tale is the story of a village girl, who can talk with animals and spirits, and her conflict with her stepmother, who declares all such actions and beings to be evil. Period details and careful blending of magic and realism help shape this intriguing new tale.
• Beheld by Alex Flinn (HarperTeen, January 10): Kendra, a time-traveling witch and perennial teen, recounts her perspective on the stories behind four familiar fairy tales, with an emphasis on romance. These light twists on traditional plots (including Rumpelstiltskin) offer the perfect winter escape.
• Siren Sisters by Diana Langer (Aladdin, January 3): Set in coastal Maine, this middle grade novel reimagines the myth of the sirens whose song lures ships into rocky waters. Lolly, our young singer, deals with more than her duties to the Sea Witch, she must also learn to navigate the rough seas of contemporary adolescence and keep her family safe.

Stories for Thought and Discussion

• Flying Lessons edited by Ellen Oh (Crown Books for Young Readers, January 3): This collection of short stories was published in partnership with We Need Diverse Books. The pieces, written by both men and women, tackle a wide range of contemporary issues, such as racism, sports, grief, gender identity, and living with disabilities. Geared to a middle grade audience, this important and well-written collection should be on everyone's reading list.
• Here We Are edited by Kelly Jensen (Algonquin Young Readers, January 24): This anthology of essays, art, photos, and poems is geared to young adult readers and addresses what it means to be a feminist in the 21st century. The 44 contributors hail from a broad spectrum of fields--pop culture personalities, artists, bloggers, and authors--and focus on the complexities of women's issues, not simply the typical views on career opportunities and speaking up.

Coming of Age with a Few Twists

• The Hundred Lies of Lizzie Lovett by Chelsea Sedoti (Sourcebooks Fire, January 3): When Lizzie goes missing after a camping trip with her boyfriend, a 17-year-old girl becomes obsessed with finding out what happened. Set in a small town in eastern Pennsylvania, this novel is part mystery, part coming-of-age story.
• The You I've Never Known by Ellen Hopkins (Margaret McElderry Books, January 24): This novel in verse and prose focus on 17-year-old Ariel who has lived an almost nomadic life with her alcoholic father since her mother deserted them years ago. As Ariel explores her awakening bisexuality, she discovers few people are really who they seem to be, and her world begins to tip.

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Sound Recommendations: 4 Summer Audiobooks

Catching up with some short reviews today, all in my current summer favorites of fantasy and thriller.

Parents, Watch Your Children

• What She Knew by Gilly Macmillan: I'm not sure why I held off on reading this much-buzzed book. It is a very well done thriller about a young boy who goes missing after getting permission from his mom to run ahead to a playground. The story is told from multiple viewpoints and different times. Macmillan did a good job with how both traditional media and social media can quickly move from sympathetic to vicious. I was particularly drawn to the male detective and how the case affected him. The audiobook was read by Penelope Rawlins and Dugald Bruce-Lockhart, who kept my attention throughout; I had a hard time turning off the book! (Harper Audio; 12 h, 2 min; print: William Morrow, December 2015)
• The Couple Next Door by Shari Lepena: I didn't realize when I started this audiobook that it was going to be another missing child story, although the circumstances here are different. When Anne and Marco's baby-sitter cancels last minute, the couple decides to have dinner with the neighbors anyway. They set up the baby monitor and take turns checking on the baby every half hour, but when they get home at 1:00 a.m., their daughter's crib is empty. This is a good twisty thriller with a small cast. I was completely caught up in working out exactly who did what and why. I didn't really like any of the characters (except maybe the detective), but I don't think we are meant to like them. The audiobook was read by Kirsten Potter, who set the mood and picked up on the characters' personalities. (Penguin Audio, 8 hr, 40 min; Pamela Dorman, August 23, 2016)

Visit a Fantasy World

• Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson: I loved Pearson's Jenna Fox dystopian books, so decided it was a safe bet to try her fantasy series (the third installment is out this fall). The story features Lia, a princess who doesn't want either the position or the arranged marriage that goes with it. She runs away to start a new life as a peasant girl, but two boys are tracking her. One an assassin and the other her intended husband. For the first two-thirds of the book, neither Lia nor we know which boy is which--very clever.  I give the book 4 stars for characters and world building, but the audiobook, read by Emily Rankin, was only so-so. I have no real complaints, I just wasn't wowed. (Listening Library, 13 hr, 31 min; Henry Holt, July 2014) 
• Age of Myth by Michael J. Sullivan: Why oh why haven't I read Sullivan before? I loved, loved, loved this book and its creatures, people, and politics. The story has many familiar epic fantasy elements, but there are enough twists so not everything is predictable. Excellent world building and relatable, flawed characters plus a terrific mix of fantasy and reality (including war and racial tensions). I can't wait for the next book, but in the meantime I'm going to read Sullivan's other books set in the same world but in a different time period. It took me a little bit to get into Tim Gerard Reynolds's performance of the audiobook, but then it clicked, and I devoured it, enjoying his pacing and expressive narration. (Recorded Books, 16 hr, 35 min; Del Rey, June 2016)

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Reading on Topic: New Fantasy / Speculative Fiction

Why is it that summer is the time for escape reading? Perhaps it's the heat or the pleasure of an afternoon relaxing poolside that requires lighter books with engaging characters and story lines. Whatever the reason, I am currently on a fantasy kick for my downtime reading.

Today I'm featuring five books in my current to-read stack. I've limited the list by three criteria: published in 2016, first in a series or standalone, and I own a print copy. Have you read any of them? Which one should I start with?

Dragons . . .

• The Waking Fire by Anthony Ryan is the first installment in a fantasy / alternate history (Europe) series that involves spies, politics, pirates, dragons, and adventure. Some reviewers have also mentioned a strong steampunk bent to the novel. I'm on the fence because I've seen the book compared to the Eragon series, which I was only meh about, but The Waking Fire has dragons and pirates and strong female characters, so I need to give it a try. (Ace Books, July)
• The Summer Dragon by Todd Lockwood is first in an epic fantasy trilogy starring a young female dragon breeder. The story includes a classic battle of good versus evil, myths, imaginative creatures, and good action. Reviewers mention the intense emotional impact of the book and the realistic, smart main character. Lockwood's beautiful black-and-white illustrations bring his fantasy world alive. (Daw, May)

. . . And Other Worlds

• Age of Myth by Michael J. Sullivan is the first in a new epic fantasy series that is set in the same universe as the author's Riyria Chronicles, although in a different time period and with new characters. The fantasy world contains several familiar creatures (elves, talking trees) and involves a struggle between two realms, one populated by the powerful bad guys and the other by the down-trodden good guys. Despite the expected plot elements, reviewers have generally given this book two thumbs up. (Del Rey, June)
• The Crown's Game by Evelyn Skye is an alternate history / fantasy story set in Imperial Russia and involving a competition to the death between two contenders for the court's head magician. The story is told from different points of view and is based on a solid historical foundation sparked with magical details. Reviewers mention the nicely complex plot, unique take on magicians, and the terrific character development. Although the prospect of a love triangle is a bit off-putting, I'm interested in this promising story. I can't tell if the novel is the first in a series or a standalone. (Balzer + Brray, May)
• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill is a middle grade (with adult cross-over) standalone fantasy with fairy tale elements. I love so much about the premise of this book: a misunderstood forest-dwelling witch makes a mistake and infuses a baby with magic. To protect the child, the witch raises her as her own. As the girl grows up and into her great power, we begin to wonder who is protecting whom from the outside world and the true evil one. I've read nothing but praise for this imaginative and beautifully written coming-of-age story. (Algonquin Books for Young Readers, August)

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Review: Uprooted by Naomi Novik

I love fantasy and I love a good fairy tale retelling, so it's not surprising that I gave Naomi Novik's Uprooted a try. I may have expected to like the story, but I was surprised by how quickly I became invested in this book.

What's it about? Agnieszka grows up under the shadow of an evil forest--one that captures people and animals, corrupting them or trapping them forever. The village's sole protection is the wizard, known as the Dragon, who lives in the tower. The only thing he requires is a girl from the village to serve him. He picks a 17-year-old every 10 years, releasing the previous young woman as she is replaced. As the choosing approaches, Agnieszka is among the candidates, but the only thing she's worried about is losing her best friend, Kasia, who will surely be picked because she's the most beautiful. The Dragon, however, makes the surprise decision to take Agnieszka, who must make a new life in the tower. It is there that the girl learns her own true nature, the meaning of friendship, and perhaps even a way to defeat the forest.

The heart of the story: Although the framing plot concerns the battle between good and evil and how the wizards and witches and armies fare in their ongoing fight against the woods, there are several other important layers to the novel, such as Agnieszka's awakening to life, to herself, to magic, and to the world outside her little village. The core of the story, however, revolves around Agnieszka and Kasia's friendship, and here is where the strength and beauty of the novel can be found. I loved the maturation of their relationship as it grew from one of childhood playmates to one of partners in the war against the woods to that of adult companions as they both find their callings.

Notes on the genre: I would classify Uprooted as a fantasy, but Novik includes many elements of fairy tales in Agnieszka's story. Baba Yaga is mentioned several times, although she doesn't make a direct appearance. In addition the relationship between Agnieszka and the Dragon has elements of Beauty and Beast. There is an enchanted (in this case very evil) forest, complete with strange and dangerous creatures. There are fruits that shouldn't be eaten, and waters that shouldn't be drunk. And, of course, there are wizard and witches who can cast a variety of spells and brew up magical potions. Agnieszka's journey to the tower also has elements of the hero's quest, as famously defined by Joseph Campbell: She is a reluctant hero who finds her inner powers and puts them to use for the greater good.

The characters: Despite the fairy tale elements, the characters in Uprooted are not one-dimensional. For example, although some people are clearly more good than evil, no one is without uncaring actions, mistakes, and uncertainties.The dynamics between the characters seem realistic and are developed at a believable pace.

Recommendations: Naomi Novik's Uprooted is a must-read for anyone who likes fantasy, magic, and/or fairy tale retellings. But I would also recommend the novel to those who like stories of strong female friendships, great characters, and stories about growing up and self-discovery.

Audiobook: The unabridged audiobook edition of Uprooted (Random House Audio; 17 hr, 43 min) is read by Julia Emelin. While I'm sure her pronunciations of the non-English words were probably spot-on, I cannot recommend the audiobook. Emelin's performance was stilted, with little variation in the inflections and full of odd pauses. Unfortunately, the audiobook had a strong negative impact on my enjoyment of Uprooted; in fact, I think this could have been one of favorite books of the year, if I had read the entire novel in print. By the time I switched off the audiobook, however, I couldn't get Emelin's narration out of my head, and it was too late for me to imagine my own voices.

Published by Penguin Random House / Del Rey, 2015
ISBN-13: 9780804179034
Source: Review (audiobook) & bought (print) (see review policy)
Copyright © cbl for Beth Fish Reads, all rights reserved (see review policy)

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Review: The Darwin Elevator by Jason M. Hough

Sometimes I decide to read a book for the strangest reasons. I took a chance on Jason M. Hough's The Darwin Elevator because it is set in Australia and has dyspotian elements. Plus the audiobook is read by the fantastic Simon Vance. Unfortunately, I didn't pay close enough attention to the rest of the publisher's summary of this first entry in Hough's Dire Earth Cycle.

More than 200 years from now, humans have finally had contact with aliens, who constructed an elevator into space near the city of Darwin. Of course, earthlings didn't fully think through what this "gift" might mean and so were totally unprepared for the virus that turned pretty much everyone into zombie-like creatures. Only those in close proximity of the elevator and a few people who are immune to the virus remained alive.

Among the people we meet are politicians, technicians, inventors, investors, scavengers, military personal, and the hoity-toity. When news leaks that the aliens may be building a second elevator, all scramble to be in the best position to exploit the power, wealth, and safety that will come with the new construction. The Darwin Elevator focuses on a handful of characters who take sides in what is essentially a struggle of good vs. evil.

Although Simon Vance's performance of the unabridged audiobook (Random House Audio; 14 hr, 27 min) was wonderful (perfect pacing, consistent characterizations, believable accents), I had a difficult time staying connected to the novel. The principal problem is that I've never enjoyed science fiction, with its space vehicles and technological advances. Thus as soon as the characters started talking about data cubes and orbiting, my mind began to wander.

Regardless, I appreciated the fact that The Darwin Elevator had good action mixed with some excellent humor, secret plans, and a little bit of love. None of this, however, was enough to make me want to listen to the other books in the series. But because Hough writes a good story, I'm sure sci-fi fans will likely zip through the Dire Earth Cycle in no time.

If you do decide to give Hough a try, I recommend picking up the audiobooks. Oh, and be sure to tell me how it all it turns out; even the minor cliff hanger can't draw me back to future.

Random House / Del Rey Mass Market Paperback, 2013
ISBN-13: 9780345537126
Source: Review (audio) (see review policy)
Copyright © cbl for Beth Fish Reads, all rights reserved (see review policy).

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