Historical Fiction: The Bewitching by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

The latest book by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a tale of witches and magic and spells, spanning 90 years and two countries. The Bewitching offers readers a story about three different women and their fight against an evil that is willing to do terrible things to maintain its power.

The Situation: It is 1998, and Minerva, a graduate student at Stoneridge College near Boston, is struggling with her thesis. Sure, summer is here and that means the campus will be fairly empty, making it easier for her to focus and come up with something she can show her advisor in the Fall. But finding more information on obscure horror author Beatrice Tremblay has proven difficult, even though she also attended Stoneridge during The Great Depression. And once Minerva discovers that one of Tremblay's books was based on a true story, the 1934 disappearance of one of the author's friends, she is determined to find out more. Minerva is no stranger to tales of odd happenings and disappearances, as her great-grandmother, Alba, told her plenty of them, the most harrowing of which happened in 1908 in Mexico, when Alba encountered her own monster.

The Problem: When Minerva gains access to some documents and pictures that shed a little more light on both Tremblay, and the disappearance that inspired her book, she begins to have a strange sense that the same force that plagued the author and her friend, as well as her great-grandmother, may once again be at work as she attempts to learn the truth. In 1934, Tremblay's friend spoke of feelings of being followed and pursued. And in 1908, Alba tells the story of her family farm and the series of terrible tragedies that had most everyone convinced that the land was cursed. Minerva knows that academic stress is real and cannot be dismissed, but she also remembers what her great-grandmother told her, and there are too many similarities between then and now.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a historical fiction novel that had also been placed into the horror category due to the discussion of witchcraft, curses, spells, and even seances. The book contains three different stories, during three different times in history. The main story involves graduate student Minerva in 1998 at Stoneridge College. Then there is horror author Beatrice Tremblay, also at Stoneridge College, but in 1934, when the girls' dorms still had house mothers. And in 1908, Minerva's great-grandmother, Alba, tells of the time shortly after her father's death when it seemed the family farm was cursed, and she knew witchcraft was at work. While Stoneridge College is fictional, Moreno-Garcia was inspired by her own time at a New England college, as well as by the myriad of horror authors who lived in and around the New England area.

My Verdict: This is the sixth novel that I have read by Moreno-Garcia, and it is easily my favorite. I will admit to being less interested in Alba's story than I was in the other two, but that was more because of my annoyance with Alba as a character than anything else. I would have liked more of Tremblay's story and more information about her time at Stoneridge, especially since the disappearance of her friend is Minerva's primary focus, but I suppose we did get more information about that through Minerva's research and interviews. The three stories were expertly brought together, allowing the mystery to unfold in a way that is not awkward or forced. 

Favorite Moment: I do enjoy most aspects of academic research, so watching Minerva go through old letters and photos, as well as visit library archives gave me a fair amount of joy.

Favorite Character: For the most part, Minerva prefers to keep to herself and is quickly exhausted by most social interactions. But she works hard, remains focused, and is determined to find the truth.

Recommended Reading: I recommend The Spear Cuts Through Water by Simon Jimenez. 

Contemporary Fiction: Katabasis by R.F. Kuang

Something I am always on the lookout for when it comes to this blog are books that are worthy of the category of 'door stop.' Five hundred pages or more is all it takes for a book to fall under that label, and the fact that Katabasis comes from author R.F. Kuang, and is also around 540 pages, made me incredibly happy and excited. I thoroughly enjoyed Babel, and was excited for another Kuang book that involved characters obsessed with both academics and Magick.

The Situation: Alice Law is on an incredible mission with a high chance for failure. But she feels she has no choice but to do the seemingly impossible, and certainly unadvisable. If she has done the right amount of research, and learned the right spells, and taken enough notes, Alice should be able to journey into Hell and retrieve her advisor, Dr. Jacob Grimes. All she has ever wanted was to become one of the best in the field of Magick. So far this has meant studying under Grimes, who is currently the best at what he does. With his support, she can graduate from Cambridge knowing that she is pretty much guaranteed a great job and a bright future. So his death must be reversed if she is to stay on track. Also, there is the small detail that she is pretty sure his death was her fault.

The Problem: Descending into hell and casually bringing someone close to you back to the land of the living is not a simple task, and Alice knows this. Her rival, Peter Murdoch, is also well aware of how complicated this task is, but believes they have a better chance of success if they attempt it together. But the last thing Alice wanted was for Peter to tag along. To her, Peter is the annoyingly kind and affable golden boy of the department who can do no wrong, and always comes out on top. He wins all of the awards, gets all of the praise, and most annoying of all, he is incredibly nice and just as brilliant as everyone says. Together, the two of them journey through Hell in search of the advisor that neither of them hold any real affection for, but the search could cost them even more than they realized.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a fantasy novel set mostly in Hell, but begins at Cambridge where Alice and Peter first begin their descent. Throughout their journey, there is much talk about philosophy, religion, logic, literature, and even mathematics. To make it through the many courts of hell, Alice and Peter will have to draw on every bit of knowledge they have, across several fields, and it still may not be enough. Naturally, something that is referenced throughout are Dante's thoughts from The Divine Comedy, especially as Alice and Peter have their own beliefs as to how Hell is arranged, and what is the best way to move through it. As the two of them continue their adventure, they must also reconcile who they are to each other, and take an honest look at the person that was Jacob Grimes.

My Verdict: There was considerable excitement surrounding this book, and for me, it was merited. Kuang wastes no time getting the story started, as the reader immediately knows what Alice is up to and why. Once she and Peter make it into Hell, the adventure and excitement do not stop for the next 500+ pages. Sure, the setting does not really change since they are in Hell, but every chapter is a new challenge, or puzzle, or question. And the story is not a simple movement through the different courts or levels of Hell. The pair are thrown off track many times, and the characters they encounter are fascinating (many are horrifying), and add to a story that is fun, but will also make the reader think. There are logic puzzles that Alice and Peter must work through, but they must also think about what they are really fighting for, and what they are willing to sacrifice to get it.

Favorite Moment: For the first half of the book, Peter Murdoch is a bit of a mystery, until he finally gets the opportunity to tell his story.

Favorite Character: In the beginning, it is pretty easy to dislike Alice, and at least be a bit suspicious of Peter. Alice admits, at least to the reader, that she is the type who is fine with favoritism as long as she is the one benefitting. And she is unwilling to believe or admit to any truth in which she is not special, or chosen, or superior in some way. Ultimately, I did not choose a favorite character, and I am not sure I can. 

Recommended Reading: Kuang's Babel deals with a different kind of magic, but also takes place in an academic setting.

Science Fiction: These Memories Do Not Belong to Us by Yiming Ma

For what could (maybe) end up being my last science fiction selection for the year, I chose Yiming Ma's These Memories Do Not Belong to Us. As the title suggests, the book explores memories, their power, and their value, in a far-off future where they can be shared, but also edited, and even deleted.

The Situation: In a distant future, the Qin empire is in power after a long war and the outbreak of the deadly Chrysanthemum Virus, and every citizen has been outfitted with a Mindbank, a device that allows memories to be stored, shared, and deleted. When a nameless narrator inherits his mother's Mindbank following her death, he makes a surprising, and also terrifying discovery. In her Mindbank are many memories that have been banned by the Qin authorities. By having her son inherit them, she has put his freedom, possibly even his life, in danger. While he believes he will eventually be apprehended, he holds onto his mother's memories anyway, and shares them with the reader.

The Problem: The collection of memories - which are sorted into three categories, Before the War, The War, and After the War - take place in various lands, spanning decades, with both female and male narrators and protagonists. There even seems to be a common thread as certain people show up in more than one memory, or their story is referenced as part of an important event in Qin history. Regardless, despite what the narrator is able to learn about his mother, as well as government he serves, he knows he is in danger, and is not sure if he wishes to simply wait for the inevitable punishment; embrace it by coming forward; or perhaps, attempt to share what he has with the world.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a science fiction novel set in a distant future, and after a war that has allowed the Qin empire to take over and redefine the world as we know it. Thoughts and memories can now be monitored as every citizen has a Mindbank, allowing all memories to be shared. In the stories that take place before the war, Mindbanks are only available to the wealthy, with artists and storytellers already lamenting the all but certain disappearance of books and movies. While there is a story and timeline to follow, the format of the book more closely resembles a collection of short stories, especially as they do not appear in chronological order. 

My Verdict: Any premise that deals with the manipulation of thoughts and memory is always immediately interesting to me. And with every big tech and social media company out there after both our money and our information, the idea of a Mindbank is not that far off. Truly, my only real lament about this book is that the stories do not appear in sequential order of when they took place. Even the three provided headings of Before the War, The War, and After the War are not that helpful in placing events when they actually occurred, at least not for me. The ideas presented are interesting and thought-provoking, even if the ending is a bit on the nose.

Favorite Moment: There are several moments when a character must comes to terms with the fact that they are not much better at navigating this world than anyone else.

Favorite Story: "86 Shanghai" is the story of a Chinese immigrant living in New York City, who can only call his family back in China once a month. The details of his life, what he must do to survive and eventually have his family join him, and the progression into the future, are all incredibly well thought out and intriguing to read. 

Recommended Reading: 1984 by George Orwell came to mind many times while reading this book. 

Historical Fiction: The Antidote by Karen Russell

Karen Russell's The Antidote has garnered a good amount of attention for tackling what life was like during the Dust Bowl in the U.S, as well as the displacement of Native Americans, and the displacement of the settlers from their own homes in Europe. With a little added magical realism, Russell's story becomes about more than economic hardship and environmental consequences.

The Situation: After Black Sunday in 1935, the farmers in Uz, Nebraska are facing a crisis. The land that they settled on has turned to dust, and so has their livelihood. Everyday another family gives up and moves away from the small town. Harp Oletsky, a wheat farmer who grew up in Uz after his family relocated there from Poland, has experienced a strange bit of luck as his wheat is growing just fine, despite the drought. But he cannot allow himself to celebrate it as his neighbors continue to struggle around him. Living with him is his niece, Asphodel, who is still coming to terms with the death of her mother, Harp's sister. And then there is the Antidote, a woman in town who can take a memory, any memory, and store it away somewhere deep inside herself until the customer is ready to retrieve it.

The Problem: The Antidote, Prairie Witch, Vault...whatever people decided to call her, is facing her own crisis. Since Black Sunday, she has lost all of the memories that the townspeople of Uz have deposited with her. And because so many of them have decided to leave, there are now lines outside of her door of people wanting to retrieve what they gave her. If they find out she has lost the memories, they will think she is a fake, and the Antidote already has enough trouble with the town Sherriff, who is carrying a secret of his own. But when a photographer from D.C. arrives to take pictures of the people of Uz, her camera may reveal more than anyone bargained for, giving the town a new crisis to grapple with.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a historical fiction novel set between Black Sunday in 1935, one of the worst dust storms in the history of this country, and the flooding of the Republican River, which received 24 inches of rain in 24 hours. Front and center in the story is the Dust Bowl and its effects on farmers, such as Harp and his friends. But there is also the titular character of the Antidote and her strange ability to relieve people of their memories. Some may call her a witch, and she may be generally shunned by polite society, but yet so many rely on her to take (and keep) their secrets, as they believe her when she says she never hears a thing when they come to her. But the people of Uz will also be confronted with what happened when the land they now live on was settled, as it was given to them by a government who had to first take it form someone else.

My Verdict: The dust bowl as a subject in fiction has always interested me, and I was excited to see Russell's take on it. The book started out well enough, before eventually feeling like a chore to get through every time I picked it up. Having several different characters take over telling the story as opposed to having only one perspective was a great choice, but even that did little to allow me to get away from a particularly difficult, or even boring part of the story by escaping into a another character's narrative. To be fair, pretty much every aspect of the story is a difficult one, and I give Russell credit for going for it and not shying away from hard topics.

Favorite Moment: As the captain of a ragtag basketball team, Asphodel is committed to winning, but has to confront everything that goes into that, from team sacrifices, to facing down opponents who may have even more to lose.

Favorite Character: I want to pick the cat that makes its way around Uz, but if I am forced to pick a human, I pick government photographer Cleo Allfrey.

Recommended Reading: I always recommend The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck, but for a more contemporary read, I recommend The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah. 

Classic Fiction: Portrait in Sepia by Isabel Allende

Continuing my journey through the books of Isabel Allende, today's post is all about Portrait in Sepia, which for me will close out the author's Trilogía Involuntaria, which also includes The House of the Spirits, and Daughter of Fortune. Staying within the tradition of the other two books, this one follows a young woman, Aurora del Valle, beginning before she was even born, and continuing into the early 20th century as she enters adulthood and begins to uncover the buried memories and lost stories of the past. 

The Situation: Before Aurora del Valle is born, her mother, uncle, and grandparents are respected members of the Chinatown community in San Francisco. Lynn Sommers is already known for her beauty, something that greatly worries her mother Eliza, as she insists on escorting the young girl everywhere and making sure she spends no amount of time alone with any of the young men who seek to gain her attention. Despite all of Eliza's attempts and attention, Lynn becomes pregnant and gives birth to a young girl. But for Aurora, the first five years of her life will remain a mystery, as will her maternal grandparents, as she will be raised by her paternal grandmother Paulina del Valle, a woman insistent on keeping her granddaughter's early years a secret.

The Problem: Although she has no memory of the first five years of her life, Aurora is regularly haunted by nightmares of figures in black. It is almost as if her life began when she came under the care of Paulina del Valle, a woman who is larger than life in many ways. Irreverent, proud, envied, but also incredibly skilled in business and money management, Paulina makes sure that her granddaughter wants for nothing, while also remaining ignorant about her past. But even the del Valle matriarch is unable to keep the War of the Pacific, followed by the Chilean Civil War, from affecting those close to her. 

Genre, Themes, History: This is a historical fiction novel set in both San Francisco and Chile, beginning in 1862, before Aurora is born, and ending in 1910. As the narrator, Aurora sets out to tell not only her own story, but the story of her family, while admitting that her memory is flawed. Readers will recognize several characters from the other books in Allende's Trilogía Involuntaria, including some names from The House of the Spirits, the events of which take place in the future. At the forefront are Aurora's grandmothers, Pauline del Valle and Eliza Sommers, both women who insisted on making their own path in life, despite how women were expected to behave in the 19th century.

My Verdict: Of the four books that involve the del Valle family (including this year's My Name is Emilia del Valle), this one has become my favorite. Aurora may be the focus, but the book takes on several members and branches of the del Valle family tree, and I love the choice of occasionally spending a significant amount of pages on someone other than the main protagonist. With so many colorful characters, and its setting of some of the most tumultuous years in Chile's history, it makes sense to go outside of what Aurora would have been able to see with her own eyes, therefore adding to the already epic story of the del Valle family. The book can be read on its own, separate from the others in the Trilogía Involuntaria, but I recommend reading all three.

Favorite Moment: It is difficult to go against the wishes of Paulina del Valle, but Eliza Sommers manages to stand firm in an early decision.

Favorite Character: Aurora's grandfather, Tao Chi'en, is a respected physician and an advocate for the helpless in his community. 

Recommended Reading: Chronologically, Portrait in Sepia is the second book in the Trilogía Involuntaria, but it was published third. Honestly, the series could be read in either the order the books were published, or in the order of the events in the story. Either way would work. 

Young Adult Fiction: Blood in the Water by Tiffany D. Jackson

Author Tiffany D. Jackson is no stranger to the YA genre, so I was interested to see what happens when she writes a mystery and suspense novel geared more towards middle grade readers. Blood in the Water follows a young girl who is investigating a mysterious death while away from home on summer vacation. As with all of Jackson's books, nothing is quite as it seems, and the young detective has her work cut out for her.

The Situation: Kaylani McKinnon is not exactly excited about spending the summer at Martha's Vineyard, away from her home in Brooklyn. It means staying with a strange family she has not seen in years, in a house she does not know, and even further away from her dad, who is in prison on embezzlement charges. Every night, Kaylani waits for him to call, always feeling like the minutes run out too quickly, and there is too much time before the next day, when she will get to speak to him again. Despite her misgivings, Kaylani ends up at Martha's Vineyard with the Watson's, and their annoying granddaughter, London.

The Problem: It is clear that London is even less excited than Kaylani about her staying with her family. London's older sister Cassie is not too thrilled either, but she is more distracted by a few of the boys her age on the island. Kaylani does her best to get comfortable, even managing to make some friends, until tragedy strikes the island and a young boy ends up dead. With a few recent shark sightings in the waters surrounding the island, people are not sure if the boy's death is the result of a rare shark attack, or something more sinister. Kaylani is eager to solve the case, but the more she finds, the more secrets are revealed not only about the island, but the people she is staying with.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a middle grade novel set mostly in and around Martha's Vineyard. Kaylani is on the island as a guest of the Watson's, a wealthy family that spends their summers on the island, which means Kaylani is there along with the Watson's granddaughters, Cassie and London. For the majority of the story, the main antagonist is London, whose only interests include clothes, makeup, and being able to be seen with her older sister Cassie, who is less than interested in being around the two younger girls. During her time on the island, Kaylani will learn about the history of Martha's Vineyard, as well as the nature of shark attacks, all while trying to solve the possible murder of a local boy.

My Verdict: When I first realized that this book was going to be geared more towards middle grade readers, I wondered how Jackson was going to tailor her writing for a younger audience. As with several of Jackson's previous books, this one includes a murder mystery, but is not quite as heavy as far as the subject matter, which works well for younger readers. There is still a mystery to solve, very real danger to be avoided, and plenty of suspicious characters that may or not be on the protagonist's side. Almost any reader of any age can recall the feeling of having to spend a summer somewhere other than where they want to be, which is where Kaylani's story starts, and then it devolves from there. This is a smart, quick, and enjoyable read.

Favorite Moment: London is spoiled, stuck-up and annoying, and everyone knows it. It was satisfying to see some of the characters pointedly seek out Kaylani's presence instead, despite her being an outsider, and most everyone knowing her father is in prison. 

Favorite Character: Kaylani is smart, and stubborn when she needs to be. Her father also taught her to be observant and to know her surroundings, something that comes in handy more than once.

Recommended Reading: My favorite of Jackson's books remains to be Monday's Not Coming. 

Contemporary Fiction: Park Avenue by Renée Ahdieh

The debut adult novel of author Renée Ahdieh has been compared to both Crazy Rich Asians and Succession. With the focus of the story being on an ultra-wealthy Korean family, Park Avenue takes readers on a journey with an ambitious lawyer desperate to reach her goals, but her latest case may prove to be too treacherous, and with simply too much family drama.

The Situation: Jia Song has just made junior partner at her law firm, which means she is on the right track to achieving her goals. As the middle child, and only daughter, of Korean bodega owners, Jia has dreamed of the day that she could enjoy the ridiculous luxuries she witnessed others enjoying as she grew up in New York City. And while Jia is well on her way, finding success with her latest case assignment could be the thing that fast-tracks her career towards becoming senior partner. It seems that the extremely wealthy Park family is in need of a lawyer to assist in a family matter, one that involves infidelity, possible fraud, theft, and so many secrets.

The Problem: The Park family's reputation is enough to make them intimidating. And when Jia meets them, she comes face-to-face with Sora's (the oldest sister) icy demeanor, Suzy's (Sora's twin) knack for reckless and destructive honesty, and Minsoo's (the younger brother) preference for decorum and discretion, while also not being all that helpful. Oh and another thing: the three of them do not get along. But they need Jia's assistance in proving that their father is hiding money from their mother. Seven and Jenny Park are going through a divorce, while Jenny is also dealing with terminal cancer. It is the kind of case that only a future senior partner could handle, but with no one wanting to cooperate, and everyone keeping secrets from Jia, she certainly has her work cut out for her.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a work of fiction set mostly in New York City, but also has the protagonist travel to Greece, and the Cayman's, as well as Paris, all as part of her effort to discover what the patriarch of the Park family is really up to. It is clear to Jia from the beginning that she was recommended for this case because she, like the Park family, is Korean-American, but she immediately feels out of place in their family's presence. She may be on her way to owning a Birkin bag of her own (a goal she has long been obsessed with), but it takes one cold look from Sora, and a few small verbal jabs from Suzy for her to know exactly where she stands. Jia also thinks back on her place in her own family as the one who did what needed to be done, but was never the priority. 

My Verdict: This is an intriguing premise that kept me guessing, for the most part. And even the parts I was able to figure out were not so obvious to be annoying, or boring. If anything, the twists and turns often threatened to be a bit too much, a few of them teetering on the edge of believability. A few reviewers have criticized the author's use of a narrator that, in some chapters, chose to address the reader directly to offer cryptic explanations and apologies for their own role in the story. And while this was not my favorite choice, I did not hate it as much as some other readers did. My main issue would be Jia's lack of maturity, or, as I mentioned before, some of the plot reveals that I had a hard time believing.

Favorite Moment: When confronted with a former boyfriend, Jia manages to hold it together when it is most important.

Favorite Character: Pretty much everyone in this story is either deeply flawed, or holding onto some secret that could be their own undoing, or the undoing of someone they care about. Everything is about money, all of the time, even when it seems like it is not, and it felt like the worst side of nearly every characters was on full display.

Recommended Reading: Olga Dies Dreaming by Xóchitl González would be a nice follow-up.

Nonfiction: Careless People by Sarah Wynn-Williams

Interestingly enough, I found out about this book through a post on Facebook. Given what Sarah Wynn-Williams' Careless People is about, I have to find that more than a little humorous. In the book, the author, a former Facebook employee herself, details her time there, complete with accounts of misogyny, double standards, and most anything else that makes up a toxic work environment.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a work of nonfiction that follows Wynn-Williams' career during her time at Facebook as their Director of Global Public Policy. After a short prologue, and a brief story from the author's childhood about when she was attacked by a shark, Wynn-Williams goes into just how she got her job at Facebook, essentially managing to convince leadership to create a whole new position for her. Convinced that Facebook had the power to change the world for the better, Wynn-Williams wanted the role of helping Facebook with geopolitical issues. She gets her wish, but what follows are years of watching a company grow in power, while their leaders become more corrupt, and more focused on getting the platform in as many places as possible, by any means necessary. And the author struggles to hold onto her idealism, while also being asked to work an unsustainable schedule in the middle of growing and raising her family. There are awkward encounters with international leaders; intense meetings at the Facebook office(s); and a constant feeling of being in a 'This is Fine' meme.  

My Verdict: This is one of those books I found myself having to read as quickly as possible, and not because it is a bad book, but because the subject matter is so unsettling. Granted, I knew that would be the case, but some of what Wynn-Williams reveals is so absurd and ridiculous, and also a bit soul-crushing as it shows humanity at its worst, and how power and money can become the ultimate focus, especially for those who already have so much of both. I must point out the role that Wynn-Williams played in many of Facebook's nefarious successes, which is something she does acknowledge...somewhat...but only after reiterating her continued belief that the company had the power to do so much good in the world, and that she only wanted to help. Well, the results of her 'help' only aided in putting the company where it is now.

Favorite Moment: Any one of my favorite moments would be a major spoiler if I were to post it here. The entire book will serve as validation for many who have long suspected what Facebook has been up to. For me, there is one Facebook executive in particular whose behavior I found both fascinating and horrifying. 

Recommended Reading: I recommend Babel by R.F. Kuang. Yes, Babel is fiction, and set in a different time and place. However, I kept thinking about its themes of knowledge and exploitation while I was reading Careless People. And Wynn-Williams reminds me of one of the characters that also meant well, but just did not seem to 'get it.'

Contemporary Fiction: My Friends by Fredrik Backman

Author Fredrik Backman is possibly most well-known for A Man Called Ove, which is one of those books I recommended to my mother, and now she is determined to read all of Backman's work. His latest book, My Friends, centers on an artist and the group of friends that encouraged him to draw and paint, leading to a career he never saw for himself, but his friends always believed was possible. 

The Situation: Almost 18 year-old Louisa has what she has decided is a genius plan as she sneaks into a church. On this particular evening, the church is hosting an art auction full of pieces that only the extremely rich would be able to afford. The whole thing has Louisa infuriated because she knows these people do not want the art so they can look at it and appreciate it. To this crowd, the art is an 'investment,' and something else for them to brag to their other rich friends about. So she sneaks in and manages to make it over to her favorite piece, The One of the Sea. It is the painting that is on the postcard she carries with her, the one that says "Miss you, see you soon. - Mom" on the back. But things take a turn when someone else notices her, and her backpack, which is full of cans of spray paint.

The Problem: Through a series of mishaps after a genius plan that turned out to not be all that genius takes a turn, Louisa finds herself on an adventure she had not planned for. Something about the painting is that there are three figures in it. These are three friends hanging out on a pier that most people who view the painting never even see. But now, Louisa is on a cross-country adventure, learning all about the artist, and his three friends Joar, Ted, and Ali. More than two decades ago, the group of friends would spend every day of the summer on that pier, each escaping the harsh realities they had to face at home. Not only is Louisa getting the full story, but it has been determined that she, of all people, should have the painting...which seems ridiculous seeing as she does not even currently have a home.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a work of fiction where the setting is not specifically mentioned, but Louisa does take a journey from the town where the auction is being held, to the seaside town where the artist grew up. Along the way, she is told the story of those four friends who would hang out on the pier, and how the artist was encouraged to paint something for an art competition, the result of which was The One of the Sea. The power of friendship is evident not only in the artist's story, but in Louisa's as well, as she looks back on her time with her best friend Fish and all of the adventures they had together. But there is also the power of art and stories, and the possibility of happy endings. 

My Verdict: Something I love about Backman's work are the slow reveals. As the story progresses, layers are gradually peeled back that not only offer more of the story, but provide more details about the characters, and they are usually details that the reader would have already assumed. So when those assumptions are proved wrong, it is indeed surprising, while also helping the reader see just how much is still unanswered. Backman also masterfully injects humor into serious moments, while not losing any of the tension or sincerity. This book is for the ones who love a good journey, or a good story about friendship, or even a book full of unique and quirky characters. 

Favorite Moment: I love trains, so it delights me that Louisa's journey happens mostly by train.

Favorite Character: Ted is seemingly afraid of everything, which is not quite accurate, but he is afraid of quite a bit. For one, he does not like to fly (hence the train ride), but he is also a bit afraid of dogs, cars, and germs. But he is loyal to a fault, and will do his best to take care of his friends.

Recommended Reading: I recommend Backman's Anxious People, which has also been made into a series on Netflix. 

Historical Fiction: Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Like many readers, I was excited about the publication of a new book by author Taylor Jenkins Reid, known for her previous works, perhaps most notably, Daisy Jones & The Six, and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. This time, Reid tells the story of a group of astronauts in training, focusing in on one woman who has always loved space, and now may have the chance to explore it.

The Situation: Joan Goodwin loves the stars, and is able to impart her knowledge of them as a professor of physics and astronomy. But when her sister Barbara informs her of a commercial from NASA that mentions they are looking specifically for female scientists, Joan takes the opportunity to apply. And while she may not make it into the program with the first group, her second attempt is successful, and she is now facing the potential reality of a career with NASA, which could certainly come with an opportunity - maybe many opportunities - to go to space. Her niece, Frances, is certainly excited for her, and while Barbara is proud of her big sister, she is also quick to voice her concerns that herself and her daughter may no longer be Joan's first priority.

The Problem: The training is rigorous and stressful, but Joan knew it would be. Perhaps what she was not quite ready for was the anger and resentment she feels towards the men who are clearly angry and resentful about her being there. And then there are those who are quick with an insult or critique, willing to push someone else down if it means they are lifted up. Also, Joan's new life means less time with Frances, something that neither of them is happy about, while Barbara never misses a chance to let Joan know that she is letting them down. But quite possibly the last thing Joan thought would ever happen was that she would find someone she could really connect with. Someone who would help her learn the things about herself that she thought she already knew.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a historical fiction novel set in the early 1980's, as the book's protagonist prepares to be one of the first female astronauts to go to space. The people and events the book focuses on are all fictional, though there is some inclusion of real events, such as Sally Ride becoming the first American woman to go to space in 1983. Most of the action follows Joan as she navigates her new life in and around Houston, dealing with new responsibilities and relationships, while also managing her previous ones with Frances and Barbara. While acknowledging that many in her new career will be looking for reasons, any reasons, why women should not be astronauts, Joan must make the decision if she wants to continue to be herself, or perform for those who are always watching.

My Verdict: Reid once again gives readers a story with authentic and difficult relationships, in the midst of circumstances that are not only hard, but are significant to the history of the world these characters are a part of. Joan is not simply a single woman in a difficult job, with a demanding sister, trying to find out who she is. Joan is looking to be an astronaut, when many are not sold on the idea of a woman in space. With everything that she is dealing with, I found the love story to be the least interesting part of the book. It is still compelling, but I kept looking forward to the parts that dealt with the training, and the missions, and even the tense moments between Joan and her sister Barbara. Their relationship managed to be both straight forward and complicated, ultimately adding another dimension to this complex narrative.

Favorite Moment: Joan has to be upfront and honest with a coworker who has a history of being less than agreeable with everyone else. She has to stand firm in her belief as to why she has been given opportunities over some of the others, even having to assert that yes, she is smart, and yes, she does work hard.

Favorite Character: Griff is another hopeful astronaut who cares for Joan in a way she knows she could never quite return.

Recommended Reading: Daisy Jones & The Six remains my favorite book by Reid, but I also recommend The Women by Kristin Hannah.

Young Adult Fiction: Audre & Bash Are Just Friends by Tia Williams

Author Tia Williams is perhaps more well-known for her adult romance books, such as Seven Days in June. When I learned that a character from that book would be the star of her first young adult novel, Audre & Bash Are Just Friends, I went on a mission to pick up both books and read them. In today's book, Audre goes on her own mission that will be crucial for her application to Stanford, and the person that is going to help her is the mysterious new guy in town.

The Situation: High school junior Audre Mercy-Moore loves to help her fellow students, and she only charge $45 for each therapy session. Of course, she is not a professional, and also still in high school, but despite this, Audre is excited to use the upcoming summer break to work on her self-help book, a side project she is convinced will impress the Stanford admissions board. But when her plan to visit her dad in California falls through, she needs to find the time and quiet space to finish her book, and also obtain more material and experience than her perfect student/perfect daughter lifestyle has allowed for. Lucky for her, Bash Henry is fun, mysterious, and, if the rumors are true, always ready for a good time.

The Problem: When Audre hired Bash as her "fun consultant," it was mostly due to his reputation. Everyone seems to have a crush on him; he seems to show up to every party (and has thrown a few of his own); and he has a sort of effortless and unbothered vibe that Audre could never accomplish. She is determined to stay focused on her book, but she also cannot deny that Bash is attractive, and smart, and nice. And it seems that the growing romantic feelings are mutual. But the 'mystery' of Bash presents a problem. Sure, some of the rumors are clearly false, but Bash is definitely holding something back. This should help Audre keep things professional, but that only gets more difficult the more they hang out with each other.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult fiction novel set in and around modern-day New York City, specifically Brooklyn. Audra has just completed her junior year of high school, while Bash has graduated after transferring mid-year from California, where he was a track star. The character of Audre Mercy-Moore first appeared in Williams' Seven Days in June as the daughter of author Eva Mercy. In this book, Audre is still charging for therapy, is still ambitious and driven, and still does not know the truth about Eva's past. And Bash is running from a decision that ended everything back in California, and for this first time must figure out his future, since the one his dad planned for him is no longer an option.

My Verdict: Not only do I believe that fans of teen rom-coms will love this one, but fans of Williams' writing will love it as well (both teens and adults). Audre was a fan-favorite character from Williams' previous book, so having her be front and center here will delight many. And even though she is older now, she is still head-strong, funny, and outspoken, and ready to take on nearly anything. Bash may be a mystery to everyone around him at first, but as his story unfolds, the reader is given insight into a young man who has been through too much, and now has little in the way of guidance for whatever comes next. The book is fun, heart-warming, insightful, tense in places, and an overall enjoyable read.

Favorite Moment: During this summer break, Audre must complete five challenges (put together by her friend Reshma) in an effort to come up with material for her book. I will not say what the fifth challenge is, but it is incredibly satisfying when Audre completes it.

Favorite Character: I am so pleased that Audre got her own book, as I know many readers are.

Recommended Reading: I recommend Nicola Yoon's The Sun Is Also a Star.

Science Fiction: Infinite Archive by Mur Lafferty

As the third installment of The Midsolar Murders, Infinite Archive continues Mur Lafferty's story that follows Mallory Viridian, a human aboard a living space station that houses several other alien species. If that was not complicated enough, Mallory also has a habit of being present when someone gets murdered, and with a new ship scheduled to arrive, she is almost certain there will be another dead body soon.

The Situation: Mallory Viridian has received incredibly unwelcome news. Well, two pieces of unwelcome news, although they are related. Not only is there a ship heading towards Eternity that will bring with it an entire mystery fan convention, but her over-eager literary agent has signed her on to be the keynote speaker. Having to put together a keynote address is stressful enough, especially when she 1. does not want to, and 2. has no idea where to start. But typically, whenever Mallory is around a large number of humans, someone ends up dead. Sure, these situations have helped contribute to Mallory's success as a mystery writer, but she really wishes humans would stay away from Station Eternity.

The Problem: When the massive ship Metis arrives with the convention, things are already problematic. Before its arrival, Mallory has already had to deal with the appearance of chaotic Gneiss Queen Tina, who brought with her one alien species that has been known to be hostile, and a new creature that no human has ever met, and no one knows what it wants or what it is capable of. With a large group of wide-eyed humans scheduled to arrive, this new creature could cause issues. Despite everything, Mallory attends the convention, meeting other would-be writers, and even catching up her with her agent, Aaron. The situation is not completely ideal, but Mallory is hopeful, until the inevitable happens, and someone ends up dead.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a science fiction novel set in the year 2047, and in the beginning the novel is set on Station Eternity, before moving over to the new ship, Metis. Characters from the previous two novels make their appearance, with Mallory's friend Xan once again being her most trusted companion. Stephanie once again proves helpful; Queen Tina is still a headache to deal with; and Mrs. Brown continues to refuse to deal with nonsense. This book brings up the issue of first contact, and how important it is for the human race to make the proper preparations before being confronted with a new species. But the murder quickly takes center focus, and Mallory must once again use her skills as a detective to solve it before more people are harmed.

My Verdict: The world that Lafferty has crafted continues to grow and become more immersive, while also not getting bogged down in the details and new characters, and new species. While Mallory is still anxious when around a group of humans (and for good reason), having her become a mystery writer makes perfect sense, and gives a wonderful direction for the story to go. The idea of a mystery fan convention is both fun and delightful, especially with the event taking place aboard a ship that is supposed to be a manifestation of the entire internet, and the added specifics regarding the struggle to become a published author. Sure, I still found myself confused by some of the plot points, and I often lost track of what species was doing what and why, and with whom, but I am still enjoying this science fiction series. 

Favorite Moment: There was something about Mallory's face-to-face interactions with her agent Aaron that delighted me, and I cannot quite figure out why. Perhaps it was something about his obvious desire and almost need for Mallory to write more. The demand for 'more content,' of any kind, has always fascinated me. 

Favorite Character: Once again, I want to say Mrs. Brown, but she disappears for a good amount of the story. Eve is interesting, and still a bit of a mystery by the end. I do hope she makes another appearance, if there are more books to come.

Recommended Reading: I know I have recommended this book several times before, I did thoroughly enjoy Erin Swan's Walk the Vanished Earth.

Contemporary Fiction: The Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb

In 2023, I absolutely fell in love with Symphony of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb, so of course, I did not hesitate to pick up his latest novel, The Dark Maestro. A young man with an incredible talent for the cello must put his life on hold due to his father's decisions. And it seems the only way he can return to his old life and do what he loves is to take incredible risks to bring the villains to justice.

The Situation: As a young boy, Curtis Wilson grows up in the projects of Washington, D.C. His small world includes his father Zippy, who says he always has his back, and his father's girlfriend Larissa, who has always been more of a mother to Curtis than his actual mom. When a program at school allows Curtis to pick an instrument to play, he settles on the cello, and it is discovered that the young man has an incredible talent, and may even be a prodigy. The young boy is soon obsessed, and continues to get better and better, using the cello as his main focus to get him through life in the projects, school bullies, and even his dad's brief time away in prison for drug dealing.

The Problem: After a dream performance with the New York Philharmonic, Curtis is made to leave right after (and I mean right after, as in he had just left the stage) with the FBI. Turns out Zippy had been working with some major underworld figures, and after providing authorities with crucial information, he, Curtis, and Larissa must all enter the witness protection program. It will be dangerous for Curtis to even bring his cello along, which means performing for even the smallest of audiences is completely out of the question. And after losing his patience with the officials, Curtis decides it may be time for him to perform his own investigation, under his own assumed identity, and get his life back.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a work of fiction set primarily in and around the D.C. area, though there are also quite a few crucial scenes in places like Phoenix and Costa Rica. At the center of the story is cello prodigy Curtis Wilson, but chapters switch between focusing on him, and Zippy, and Larissa. While Larissa wants to encourage Curtis' talent from the beginning, Zippy is initially annoyed, wishing his son was more interested in hip-hop than classical, and even wondering at what point can his son join him in the drug-dealing business. When Curtis can no longer perform due to being in the witness protection program, he feels as if he has lost his entire identity, but soon finds solace in the creation of a new superhero type character, using his long love of comic books as his inspiration.

My Verdict: From the beginning, when Curtis is a young boy simply trying to live his life in the projects of D.C, with a father who is attempting to rise in the ranks as a drug dealer, this book feels serious and heavy, and there is immediately so much at stake. And yet, when the witness protection part starts, it is still surprising, and heart-breaking, as Curtis' promising career as a cellist has to be put on hold. The thriller part of this mystery truly kicks into gear in the second half of the book, with everything from international travel, going undercover, even kidnapping, and eventually, the story begins to look a bit like the comic books Curtis has always loved. What I love about Slocumb's books is his unique plot lines, and never quite knowing where everything is headed, and this one will certainly once again keep readers on their toes.

Favorite Moment: I enjoyed watching Curtis in the early days of putting his comic book character together. Anyone who has embarked on a new and exciting project like that knows the feeling of grabbing hold of a compelling idea and working to bring it to life.

Favorite Character: Larissa supports Curtis no matter what, even during the times when she is not all that close to Zippy. She is committed to seeing the young man succeed and does everything she can to make sure he is taken care of.

Recommended Reading: I recommend Symphony of Secrets, but also Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson.

Historical Fiction: My Name Is Emilia del Valle by Isabel Allende

After seeing the title of Isabel Allende's latest book, my curiosity was immediately piqued, as it appeared the novel would be tied to a previous one I had read just last year. My Name Is Emilia del Valle follows a young woman from her childhood in San Francisco, through the beginnings of her journalism career, and into the dangers of Chile's civil war. And yes, characters from some of Allende's previous celebrated novels do appear.

The Situation: In April of 1873, when Emilia del Valle turned seven years old, her mother dressed her up and took her to have her photo professionally taken. Her mother then sent the photograph to Chile to a man she says is Emilia's father. But for young Emilia, the man that her mother married and has now been with for many years is her true father. He is the one that would encourage and help her in getting her dime novels published, fostering a love of writing that would later result in a career in journalism, despite the field being dominated by men. When Chile appears to be on the brink of civil war, Emilia is sent to cover it, her boss wanting her to send back human interest pieces, while a colleague covers the war itself. But for Emilia, this trip has another purpose, and that is for her to find her father.

The Problem: With Emilia's fellow journalist, Eric, assigned to cover the events from the side of the rebels, Emilia does what she can to gain an audience with those close to the Chilean president, if not the man himself. Of course, being a woman and from the U.S. causes issues, but Emilia is fortunate to have met up with her great aunt, Paulina del Valle. Paulina may be abrupt, abrasive, and often offensive, but she has the connections Emilia needs, and is willing to help out the young woman who is looking for her father, while also trying to do her best journalism work. But when the war reaches its climax, Emilia will witness events she previously could have never imagined, and even finds herself being targeted by the rebels.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a historical fiction novel set in the late 19th century. The first half of the novel takes place in and around San Francisco as Emilia is growing up, discovering her love of writing, and receiving wisdom and knowledge from her stepfather. When Emilia is sent to Chile, the country is about to experience a brutal and bloody civil war. The young journalist will see humanity at its worst, and most vulnerable, while also being injured herself. There is also the question of identity, as Emilia is not sure what a meeting with her real father will bring. And the inclusion of Paulina del Valle connects this book with both Daughter of Fortune and Portrait in Sepia.

My Verdict: As is common with many of Allende's books, this one follows a determined and head strong young woman as she insists on making her own way through life, entering a male-dominated profession, and even embarking on a trip to a country in the middle of an intense conflict. Anyone who has ever been warned against a desired path, or even outright denied it, due to reasons tied with gender, race, class, etc, will certainly relate to Emilia. Something I did not quite believe is the romance between Eric and Emilia, as its appearance feels sudden, and somewhat not earned. But Allende does not shy away from what happened in Chile in 1891, offering a history lesson alongside a story about identity and destiny.

Favorite Moment: *spoiler alert* When Emilia is brought face-to-face with her real father, she meets a man whose life of recklessness and frivolity has caught up with him, leaving him sick, frail, and full of regret. 

Favorite Character: If Paulina del Valle was my aunt, I would probably never want to visit her. However, she helps Emilia and is crucial to her achieving several of her goals, despite being very vocal in her opposition to them.

Recommended Reading: Allende's Daughter of Fortune is the first mention of Paulina del Valle, and a great introduction to the author's work.

Nonfiction: Searches by Vauhini Vara

If there is one topic that is currently nearly impossible to escape from, it is the discussion around artificial intelligence. Vauhini Vara's Searches: Selfhood in the Digital Age leans into this, exploring the history, development, use, potential, and limitations of the technology, while also telling her own story as a journalist, editor, and sometimes user of AI.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a nonfiction book in which Vara begins by talking about her first experiences with the internet while at a friend's house as a kid. But before that, the books opens with the author conversing with ChatGPT, asking if it will give her feedback on book chapters that will eventually become part of the published product. This sets up what will continue to be a running theme of certain sections being a conversation between the author and the AI technology, with the latter often providing long and detailed notes on what Vara has presented, or a question that was asked. ChatGPT provides notes on chapters that evaluate the more problematic aspects of AI, big corporations, and even social media, with Vara at one point asking the application pointed questions, and pointing out what it got wrong. With a blend of memoir and journalism, Vara evaluates where we are with AI, and where we may be headed.

My Verdict: This is a fascinating and ambitious premise, with a novel approach to presenting information on something so many are already talking about. But somehow, the parts of this book that make it unique are also the parts I found to be the most cumbersome, and that is the sections that are simply large amounts of responses from ChatGPT. Its notes and feedback are often repetitive, boring, and hollow, and there are a lot of them throughout the book. The end of the book puzzles me as it is a collection of responses from a survey Vara sent out to women aged 18 and older, with questions on identity, family history, and of course, AI. Responses are seemingly copied and pasted, therefore amounting to another large section of the book that was not actually written by the author. 

Favorite Chapter: Chapter 8: "I Am Hungry to Talk," is about Vara's time in Madrid and her experience learning Spanish. But the entire chapter is presented in both English and Spanish, with the translations appearing side by side on the page. Vara first wrote the chapter in Spanish, and the English is what was presented by Google Translate.

Recommended Reading: I recommend Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor, which features a story within the story about conflict between AI and its human creators. 

Contemporary Fiction: The Imagined Life by Andrew Porter

Author Andrew Porter was one of the many writers featured at this year's San Antonio Book Festival, and I was fortunate to be able to hear him talk about The Imagined Life, his novel that follows a man attempting to learn more about his father, in particular his current whereabouts, and what happened to him after he disappeared from his son's life. And while searching, the man also reflects on his childhood, and the events that lead up to his father's disappearance.

The Situation: As a grown man, Steven Mills finds himself separated from his wife, but also on a strange and somewhat sudden trip to look for his father, whom he has not seen since he was 12 years old. While looking for him, Steven also goes back in his memories to 1984, the year his father disappeared. It is also the year his father was denied tenure at St. Agnes, an event that, on the surface, seemed to be the catalyst for his father's leaving. But looking back, Steven will remember the parties his parents would throw around the pool in their backyard; some of the mysterious guests; his father's increasingly erratic behavior; the rumors; and the often persistent sense that something was about to go very very wrong.

The Problem: While Steven continues to remember the past, he is able to compare his memories with what he learns from the people he is able to interview, people who knew and worked with his father. Many of his father's associates are honest, but guarded, often willing to say just enough for Steven to have more questions instead of less. Even family members are not willing to reveal all of what they know, even though Steven is now an adult and no longer a kid. But he stays determined in searching for his father, or at least in finding out what happened to him, though the information may be unpleasant. And as he continues to search, and remember, it becomes clear that his father was complicated, as is what happened to him.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a work of fiction set both in 1984, and in present-day California. With Steven as the first-person narrator, the reader is given a first-hand account of late night pool parties that eventually became a source of anxiety and tension for Steven and his mother. As his father began to unravel, so did his relationship with Steven's mother, something that was made more complicated by the near-constant presence of one of the party guests. It is tempting to point to his father's issues at work as the main problem, but Steven must confront all of the factors, which includes mental health issues, and be honest about how the experience has shaped his own life. 

My Verdict: With more focus on characters and relationships, this book is a slow burn. And while things are certainly happening, the scenes and events are given ample time to breathe, with every line of dialogue, every glance, every action, and every decision seeming like it was carefully considered. The book may be less than 300 pages, but within it, the main character fully examines the last few months he was in contact with his father, while attempting to track him down in the present. It is a complex and intriguing and powerful narrative about a young man growing up with a parent who is going through something he does not quite understand, but the events will most certainly shape the rest of his life. 

Favorite Moment: Near the end of the book, Steven makes a declaration to one of his father's friends about the music he likes that is so striking and moving, but also sad, considering his experiences, and the story he had been telling up to that point. It is hard to explain without spoilers, but Steven's statement left me stunned.

Favorite Character: Steven's mother is not perfect, but she did her best, considering the circumstances. 

Recommended Reading: I recommend Kazuo Ishiguro's The Remains of the Day, if only due to the reflective nature of both novels as the main characters look back and consider their relationship with someone close to them.

Nonfiction: Tequila Wars by Ted Genoways

Growing up, there was a period of my life, about nine years or so, when my father owned and operated a liquor store. Having bartended in his 20s, my father knew a lot about alcohol, alcohol sales, distribution, laws, etc. By proximity, I ended up learning a lot too, and would occasionally run the register at the store. And yes, it was strange for many of the patrons to walk up to the counter with their purchases and find a young girl standing there ready to ring them up. And despite not being much of a drinker now that I am an adult, I still hold on to a lot of that knowledge, which is what initially led me to look into Ted Genoways' Tequila Wars: José Cuervo and the Bloody Struggle for the Spirit of Mexico, as the author was part of this year's San Antonio Book Festival. 

Genre, Themes, History: This is a nonfiction book that mostly focuses on the life of José Cuervo, the man who inherited his family's distillery, and managed to nurture and cultivate it into the tequila empire we know the brand to be today. But as is detailed in Genoways' book, that growth did not come easily, as Cuervo's successes and setbacks were closely tied to the political turmoil of the country of Mexico during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As president's were elected to power, and then plotted to hold onto their positions despite the country's constitution not allowing for a president to be re-elected, leading to inevitable uprisings and rebellions, Cuervo had to be strategic about who he supported, ultimately needing to be sure that whoever was in charge would allow his empire to grow unbothered, and with few taxes. Little has been known about Cuervo, and while the general belief was that he was a nice man, but not terribly great at business, Genoways' account attempts to set the record straight.

My Verdict: This book not only gives the reader a lesson on Cuervo, but also on the disorder and unrest that was Mexico's politics during his lifetime. Specifically during the later chapters of the book, many pages will go by without any mention of Cuervo as the nation's political players literally go to war over who will hold key positions of power. Through thorough research, which includes accounts from Cuervo's niece, readers are given rare insight into the man whose name so many of us are familiar with, but little is known about. Even after reading this book, there is still an heir of mystery to the man, who clearly had to navigate a difficult landscape in order to keep his business afloat, and often also to keep himself and his family alive. Genoways offered a fascinating history, which may lead readers to do more research on their own.

Favorite Moment: The story of how Cuervo ended up marrying his wife Ana is pretty humorous, and attests to his careful and often hesitant nature when making big decisions.

Recommended Reading: For more nonfiction, I recommend Custodians of Wonder by Eliot Stein. 

Historical Fiction: The Eights by Joanna Miller

Happy 4th of July y'all, and welcome to a review of The Eights by Joanna Miller, which does not take place in the U.S, but instead in England at Oxford University in the 1920s. The historical university has finally admitted women, and the book follows four of them through their first year of college, when their country, and many of the people, are still recovering from the Great War.

The Situation: In Corridor Eight of St. Hughs, Beatrice Sparks, Marianne Grey, Theodora 'Dora' Greenwood, and Ottoline 'Otto' Wallace-Kerr are all settled into their rooms and ready to make history. As the daughter of a famous suffragette, and as a woman who stands over six feet tall, Beatrice is well versed is gaining and commanding attention, especially if it means advancing equal rights for women. Marianne is not sure she belongs at Oxford, especially considering her past, and while Dora feels the same way, it is for entirely different reasons. She lost both her brother and fiance in the war, and knows she has only been allowed to attend university in their place. And Otto is excited about social aspect of college life. Sure, she loves mathematics, but she also wants to put the war behind her and return to gaining men's attention and attending parties.

The Problem: Naturally, not everyone is excited that Oxford has decided to finally admit women. There are some students, and certainly some faculty, that are more than ready hold the new female students to different standards than the males, if only to help prove that the women do not belong there. But the four women from Corridor Eight have formed an unlikely though solid friendship, and when one of them is having a hard time, the other three are there to help her through it. They will have to deal with sexism, the threat of getting the flu, drafty rooms, and stern advisors. But if they manage to stick with it, they will be building a legacy for many women to come.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a historical fiction novel set primarily during the 1920-1921 academic year at Oxford University. The four women at the center of the narrative are all from different backgrounds and have different motivations, but are able to form an unlikely friendship that will help carry them through the difficult course work, frustrating pranks, and hauntings from their respective pasts. Having to attend a lecture by a professor that believes you should not be at the university is certainly a problem, but so is believing your new friends would not like you if they knew what you have done.

My Verdict: In between announcements, articles, letters, and bulletins is a story of four women all willing to be part of the first females officially admitted to Oxford University. With a third person narrator moving between the stories of each, the reader gets four different experiences from four different temperaments. The story is interesting enough, and the setting certainly had my attention from the beginning. If anything, it maybe would have worked better for there to be more focus on fewer characters. Or perhaps to have one of the women serve as a first-person narrator. Hard to say, but it is still an engaging story as it is, chronicling an academic year in the life of pioneering women. 

Favorite Moment: Otto is used to certain luxuries that her life in Corridor Eight simply does not have, but she finds a way to make it work (which mostly involves money), and her friends often benefit.

Favorite Character: Marianne, named after a Jane Austen heroine, may be the one in the group who is easy to overlook, but for me, she has the most interesting story.

Recommended Reading: The Women by Kristin Hannah is about a different war, but also looks at the attitudes around women showing up in a place that was historically reserved for men.  

Young Adult Fiction: Dear Manny by Nic Stone

When Dear Martin first appeared on shelves back in 2017 (same year as Angie Thomas' The Hate U Give), I had no clue that it would end up as the first book of a trilogy, and if the letter to the reader at the beginning of Dear Manny is any indication, neither did author Nic Stone. But here we are, and it could not feel more appropriate. I once had the pleasure of hearing Stone speak and having her sign two of my books, and I am thrilled to see her continue to tell stories, even difficult and challenging ones, aimed at younger readers. It is the perfect book for this last week of YA Fest.

The Situation: Jared Peter Christensen is being challenged. Sure, he is currently sitting in his Constitutional Law class, which is a class that is taught with the students and professor all sitting in a circle of bean bag chairs as they discuss, well, the constitution. The questions are challenging on purpose, as are the ensuing debates as the students' often opposing views are argued. But Jared also has to deal with a fraternity he is a part of, but does not particularly like; a father he knows does not approve of him, but whose approval he is not sure he wants; plus, the last few years have been pretty rough, beginning with the night his best friend Manny died. And now, it seems he has foolishly accepted Dr. Yeh's challenge by attending a meeting of the Undergraduate College Council, and becoming a candidate in the upcoming student elections.

The Problem: Enter Jared's next big challenge in the form of his opponent, John Preston LePlante IV. Like Jared, John Preston is a straight, white, wealthy legacy student, but his stance on the issues is incredibly different. Standing out and apart from him as an opponent should prove no problem, but when a third candidate enters the running, Jared is not at all sure what to think about Dylan M. Coleman. He has never met the guy and has no clue what he stands for. All Jared knows is that he has to win, and John Preston for sure has to lose. But in the coming weeks, Jared will have to wrestle with more than just campus politics. When he starts writing letters to Manny, Jared has to confront what really motivates him, what he actually stands for, and decide what kind of person he wants to be.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult fiction novel set at an Ivy League university where Jared is a student with the protagonist of Stone's first book, Dear Martin. Justyce McAllister is now not only Jared's close friend, but his roommate as well, even though in that first book, the word 'enemies' would not have sufficed to describe how they felt about each other. In this book, Justyce is someone Jared trusts, almost looks up to, and serves as a grounding force while he works through everything that is happening, including the campaign. Like Justyce, Jared is confronted with racial injustice and inequities, while also having to look honestly at his own privilege, and what he is willing to do about it, and with it.

My Verdict: Confession: I am, in general, not a person who looks for or enjoys confrontation. Facing and examining hard truths? Fine. Arguing about them with someone else? No, thank you. With that said, that mental exercise of readers putting themselves in the book and wondering how they would do? Pretty sure I would wither away in this one. If readers thought Stone 'went there' with Dear Martin, then for me, this book does something else entirely. But the things is, as uncomfortable as I often was, I am still glad I read it, and still looked forward to being able to read it until I finished. And, I am looking for reasons to gift it to those close to me. Yes, the book is challenging, but not in an obnoxious or heavy-handed way. It is simply honest, and having the focus be on Jared is a bold and brilliant move.

Favorite Moment: Witnessing the debate between the three candidates was both painful and fun. I will still avoid having to watch one between real political candidates, but the one in this book is worth suffering through. 

Favorite Character: Justyce is not present in this book a whole lot, but when he is, it is during moments when Jared either needs a reality check, or simply someone to talk to. It is nice to see these two become close, real friends after everything that has happened.

Recommended Reading: For some reason, my mind goes to James by Percival Everett as a good follow-up. It is not even remotely YA, but it is a great story, and deserving of all of the attention is has received.