Book recommendations for your lazy summer days
We asked local booksellers, librarians and others to recommend some good reads for this summer. They offered mysteries, thrillers, romances and romantasies, science fiction and historical fiction and literary fiction and nonfiction.
Fiction
Loops by Jashar Awan “is a humorous and relatable picture book about a child who is learning to tie his shoes. Readers of all ages will enjoy this charmingly illustrated and narrated story, as the trials and triumphs of this new ‘big kid’ responsibility unfold,” said Children’s Librarian Katie S. at Manchester City Library.
Contrapposto by Dave Eggers “I have such enormous affection for these characters, and for the world of this novel,” said Michael Herrmann, owner of Gibson’s Bookstore in Concord. “It’s a story about Art with a capital A, vividly told. It would be too much to say that Contrapposto reveals the mysteries of creation, but I’ve only rarely seen a novel capture so well the temperament of the artist, and the history of American art over the last 50 years. People don’t always mention Dave Eggers when the conversation turns to ‘the best novelists working today,’ but they should.”
The Searcher by Tana French “I recommend this book to all my fiction readers at the library,” said Lara B., Director at Langdon Public Library in Newington. “The Searcher and its sequels, The Hunter and The Keeper, are set in rural Ireland, centering on an expatriate American cop who reluctantly gets roped into investigating the disappearance of a local teen. These books appeal to murder mystery fans as well as those who prefer character-driven narratives. Everyone who read the first got hooked and eagerly awaited the second and third!”
Elizabeth W. of Seabrook Library also recommends this trilogy: “The characters and personalities who populate the novels will be recognizable to any person who lives in a small town, and French’s prose is rich and inimitable.”
Heartwood by Amity Gaige “Beautiful prose and building suspense make this a great read,” said Janet A., Head of Circulation at Hampstead Public Library. “The story is set largely in Maine, where an Appalachian Trail hiker disappears. Alternating perspectives between the lost woman, the Maine State Game Warden in charge of the search, and a 76-year-old bird watcher in Connecticut come together to build the tension. Will the hiker be found in time?”
Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman “For anyone looking for an easy read that’s funny, crude, and overall just ridiculous this is your summer read,” said Ryan O’Hora, Director of Pembroke Library. “Imagine aliens hosting a reality game show with Earth and the humans being the test dummies for their game show. I’ve read the first in the series and am looking to read more this summer.”
“If you haven’t fallen into this series yet, summer is your excuse. It’s wildly funny, action-packed, and genuinely hard to put down. Perfect for readers who want something completely different,” said Brianna at Bookish Bliss mobile bookshop.
“When the Earth is conquered by aliens, humans are invited into a video-game-like dungeon, which is also an intergalactic reality show. Carl, who entered the dungeon with his ex-girlfriend’s cat, had no idea what he was in for, especially when she — award-winning show-cat Princess Donut — took a magic pet biscuit and gained the ability to speak. The premise is silly, but the books are well-written, funny, and action-packed. I couldn’t put this series down; I read all eight of them in the last few months!,” said Katrina L. of Concord Public Library
Phoebe Berman’s Gonna Lose It by Brooke Averick “While I’m not normally a romance reader, this is not your typical romance. The main character is awkward, insecure, and very relatable. It’s the perfect summer beach read that will make you laugh out loud,” said Jaime at Bookery Manchester
“For those of us who are eagerly awaiting the movie The Summer I Turned Pretty, rewatching the XO, Kitty series, or reading all things from the Jenny Han book universe, there is a teen graphic novel I can’t wait to get a hold of (as soon as it is returned). To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before has been turned into a graphic novel adapted by Barbara Perez Marquez and illustrated by Akimaro and Li Lu and is available at a library or bookstore near you!” said librarian Jennifer T. at Goffstown Public Library.
“If you are looking for a swoon-worthy sports romance, Lynn Painter’s Fake Skating is at the top of my list for teens and adults. Painter excels at the fake dating trope through her flawed, multi-dimensional characters and her smart, seamless mix of humor, hope and heart in this young adult hockey romance,” said Goffstown Public Library’s Jennifer T.
The Shopkeeper of Alsace by Laura Knoy “Based on a true story, Knoy’s novel follows a remarkable woman and her family through two World Wars. A gripping and important read,” said Mathew B., Assistant Director of Concord Public Library.
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore “is the perfect combination of mystery, family drama, and nostalgia to add to your summer reading list,” said Faithe L. of Concord Public Library. “When teenager Barbara Van Laar goes missing from a summer camp in the Adirondacks in 1975, all is not as it appears. Is this related to the disappearance of Barbara’s brother, Bear, 14 years earlier? Everyone is a suspect, as the plot unravels over decades.”
“I am eager to read Green City Wars by sci-fi maestro Adrian Tchaikovsky, about a raccoon living in a solarpunk city investigating the disappearance of a mouse. That’s right, genetically engineered pests solving crimes – how could I pass this up?” said Lex H., library tech at Manchester City Library.
Janet A. of Hampstead Public Library is looking forward to reading Down with the Shipmans by Meg Mitchell Moore.“Massachusetts author Meg Mitchell Moore’s 2025 suspenseful drama Mansion Beach was a great summer read, so I look forward to her new novel,” she said. In Down with the Shipmans, the Shipman sisters are heading to a family reunion at their New Hampshire summer home and drama ensues.
Odyssey by Homer, translated by Emily Wilson “If you missed this in high school literature, have no fear, you can start today on the best journey ever written,” said Ryan O. of Pembroke Library. “I wanted to read this before the movie came out this summer. It was such an easy read and sure to enthuse any adventure seeker.”
“Those of you anticipating Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster film of the Odyssey hitting theaters this summer can prepare by reading the celebrated 2023 Emily Wilson translation of the Iliad, ‘that other epic poem by Homer.’ Wilson’s language and use of a rhyme scheme more friendly to English speakers makes her translation approachable for those new to the classic tale of war, gods, and wrath. Those familiar with earlier translations will appreciate Wilson’s version for its immediacy and propulsive style,” said Michael Haley Goldman of NH Humanities.
Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint by singNsong “This is both a novel and a webtoon (and maybe an animation soon?) and can best be described as Percy Jackson for adults. A lot of the historical legends and figures that bestow powers are Korean, as the main story takes place in Seoul, but the apocalypse is world-spanning and so are the players,” said Yvonne F., Teen Librarian at Manchester City Library.
Lore of the Wilds by Analeigh Sbrana “It can be challenging to find romantasy that features people of color, so finding this cottage-core duology was like finding a personal goldmine. If you love the idea of being trapped in a library, running a small business in a quaint village, magic, or romance you’d love this book,” said Adanna at Bookery Manchester.
When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzén “This heartfelt book [is] one I have been thinking about ever since finishing earlier this year. Simply put, it is about a man, his beloved dog, and the people and relationships surrounding the two. A must-read for its dialogue on the complexity of aging, dignity, dying, and grief. Truly beautifully written, and a book that feels like it could be about any of us or a parent,” said Leah M. at Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire.
Colson Whitehead’s Harlem Trilogy, consisting of Harlem Shuffle, Crook Manifesto and Cool Machine, is recommended by Elizabeth W., Director of Seabrook Library. “These books explore the adventures of Ray Carney, a furniture store owner who moonlights as a fence. Each book is set in a different decade, the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s. This trilogy puts its readers in the center of a criminal underworld wrapped in wry humor, with characters whose voices are so unique and real that they will reverberate in your head long after you’ve finished the book,” she said.
The Fetishist by Katherine Min is recommended by Lara B. of Langdon Public Library in Newington: “I encountered this book because its brilliant author was a professor of mine at Plymouth State University, before her passing in 2019. This novel … is part thriller, part farce, part cultural commentary, and, as one would expect from the winner of the Pushcart Prize, always masterfully and elegantly written. The Fetishist is loosely inspired by Lolita but focuses on the traumatic effects and intergenerational impact of predation, its title a skewering indictment of white men who fetishize Asian women. I enjoyed Min’s first novel, Secondhand World, while feeling it appealed more to young adult audiences — this one speaks to all ages….”
The Everlasting by Alix E. Harrow “It would have been enough for me that this thrilling, thought-provoking fantasy is a time-looping re-imagining of the Arthurian legend featuring a woman knight … and the scholarly historian chronicling her story. What struck me most about this book, though, is its focus on the role of stories in society, particularly who has the power to tell the stories, who benefits from these stories, and whose stories get left out,” said Tricia R., librarian at Wiggin Memorial Library in Stratham. “This book kept me on the edge of my seat straight through….”
The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros “Rebecca Yarros never misses, and this one wrecked me in the best way. It’s emotional, it’s romantic, and it’s the kind of book you’ll want to read in one sitting with a box of tissues nearby,” said Brianna at Bookish Bliss.
Beartown by Fredrik Backman “I really could mention any book by Backman as I love his writing style and his story telling ability,” said Denise of Book Bound. “He has the beautiful ability to make the reader care about his characters so deeply even when they are flawed. … Beartown focuses on a small town … junior ice hockey team (you don’t have to be a hockey fan to enjoy this) competing and winning the national semi-finals. These young boys greatly feel the pressure and a violent act … throws the town into turmoil … and we see secrets, hope and courage come into play.”
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin “is, at its heart, a story about love — but not about romance,” said Faithe L. of Concord Public Library. “Sam Masur and Sadie Green strike up a childhood friendship in a hospital waiting room, never imagining how their relationship will bloom and be threatened throughout their lives. As Sam and Sadie become business partners, video game designers, and best friends, they navigate challenges of the heart, mind, and body.”
Gibson’s Bookstore staffer Fal recommends The Dragon Has Some Complaints by John Wiswell, out July 14. “Garrodigh has three heads and a stump, but we don’t talk about Lefty. Never mind him, the rest of the heads can enact a grand scheme of their own, thank you very much!” Fal said. “Stitches-in-your-side hilarious, this book will have you on the floor, cackling at the many woes of a dragon who yearns for revenge but gets head scritches instead.”
What Came West by Josh Weil “Set in 1849, before the gold rush, Silas is traveling west in a propulsive thriller. I’m excited to read this book because I’ve not read many westerns and the author’s writing is amazing. On my initial read I couldn’t put it down because the story was intriguing and mysterious. Adventure awaits!” said Ryan O. of Pembroke Library
Wreck by Catherine Newman “Like her book Sandwich, Newman’s Wreck is beautifully written. It’s a slice-of-life story with both heartbreak and humor. … You’ll enjoy the wit and wisdom of Rocky as her family comes together for a holiday … and a local tragedy raises questions that affect them all. (Sandwich is also a fantastic summer read with Rocky and her family on vacation on Cape Cod.),” said Janet A. of Hampstead Public Library.
Dorothy H., Head of Adult Services at Seabrook Library, recommends Big Little Truths by Liane Moriarty (releasing Aug. 25) “With their kids now in high school, the women of Big Little Lies again are joining forces to figure out why a mysterious package was sent to the school’s principal,” she said. “And who is the stranger asking questions at the school?”
Scandal of the Summer by Alexandra Vasti “This is Vasti’s latest regency romance romp and to convince you to read it, I have just one word. Pirates. This one release[d] on June 23,” said Brooke K., library technician at Manchester City Library.
This Book Made Me Think of You by Libby Page “Tilly Nightingale, a young widow, gets a call from a local bookstore. There’s a book waiting there for her, chosen by her recently deceased husband, Joe. There are 12 carefully chosen books for her, one for each month of the year, to help her through the first year without him. A little bit of romance and a lot of great books – a charming read!” said Robbin B. of Concord Public Library.
Anatomy of an Alibi by Ashley Elston is “a gripping mystery that keeps you guessing — perfect for a beach bag or a rainy summer afternoon,” said Brianna at Bookish Bliss.
The Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlow “A lovely, engaging book told from the perspective of Mary Bennet, the much maligned middle sisterin Pride & Prejudice. In Jane Austen’s book, Mary is considered the unattractive, bookish, and socially awkward sister who either annoys or embarrasses the rest of her family. In this book we learn of the toll that her family’s dim view of her has taken on Mary…. The book traces Mary’s attempts to gain some control over her life and her happiness…. If you enjoy this book, check out the wonderful new BBC TV adaptation,” said Tricia R. of Wiggin Memorial Library.
“Platform Decay by Martha Wells is the latest of the Murderbot books and as a fan of the series it’s a joy to read. This entry echoes a previous book, Exit Strategy, in the plot of SecUnit (aka Murderbot, but that’s private) rescuing its clients from corporate hell — but this time, we see how much SecUnit has grown and flourished in freedom,” said Lex H. of Manchester City Library.
The Bookbinder’s Secret by A.D. Bellis “binge-worthy historical fiction,” said Erin R. of Derry Public Library. “When Lily Delaney (apprentice bookbinder) finds a love note in the binding of a partially burned book, she doesn’t anticipate that it will push her headlong into uncovering a mysterious and forbidden love story from 50 years earlier — or that her life will be in danger if she digs too deep.”
Seabrook Library’s Elizabeth W. recommends the Essex Dogs Trilogy by Dan Jones, consisting of Essex Dogs, Wolves of Winter and Lion Hearts, saying, “These books, set in 14th-century England, explore the experience of a group of ordinary foot soldiers in the 100 Years’ War. Not for those who abhor rough language, but endlessly fascinating to students of military history.”
The Last Gifts of the Universe by Riley August “Two siblings and their cat on a quest through space, scavenging dead planets to learn about an entity that has been destroying civilizations throughout the Universe before their home planet faces a similar fate. I haven’t stopped talking about this book since I read it two years ago!” said Alex of Bookery Manchester. “Plus the author has a new book coming out this July called A Planet Called Happy that I’m really looking forward to reading!”
Trad Wife by Saratoga Schaefer “I know everyone is reading Yesteryear (including me!), but Trad Wife might be my favorite book of the year so far. It’s a horror twist on the burgeoning ‘trad wife realizes her life isn’t so perfect’ genre, and has a great ‘good for her’ ending,” said Liz R., reference librarian at Derry Public Library.
Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke “was a wonderfully wild ride,” said Jaime at Bookery Manchester. “I chose to read it since it’s so hot in fiction right now and I’m SO glad I did. It’s punchy, unique, and very fitting for the world we live in right now.”
Yesteryear“is thought provoking and helps you to appreciate the freedoms we women have these days versus the way things were in the 1800s,” said Michelle at Bound Together used book store in Nashua.
And Denise of Book Bound, the wandering bookshop in the Seacoast area, said, “Yesteryear … was a hands-down favorite of mine … because of the author’s talent for crafting a story. It centers on Natalie, a ‘trad wife’ influencer. We quickly learn she is no traditional wife at all, however. She has nannies taking care of her children and helping with the house and makes a lot of money off of her ‘brand.’ … Until one day, Natalie wakes up in the harsh reality of the year 1855…. What the author does after this is a wild ride and I won’t spoil it.”
“Angel Down by Daniel Kraus was awarded the 2026 Pulitzer Prize in Fiction. It’s also a real page-turner! Five World War I soldiers rescue an angel from No Man’s Land. This fast-paced story is told in a single sentence using beautiful vocabulary paired with vivid descriptions and tense moral dilemmas. It’s the best book I’ve read in a very long time. Even if you don’t read historical fiction, this one is worth seeking out!” said librarian Sarah F. at Laconia Public Library.
The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett is 656 pages of historical fiction from the author of 2009’s The Help. “Although we haven’t read this one yet, we are interested in the theme of loyalty, community and courage that the book promises to offer,” said Michelle at Bound Together in Nashua.
“And for our fantasy friends we would recommend Wolf King by Lauren Palphreyman for the high-stakes fantasy of friends to lovers and strong female roles, said Michelle at Bound Together. “It is full of twists and turns that will have you waiting for the next book, Night Prince.”
The Raven Scholar by Antonia Hodgson was a finalist for several fantasy awards and was recommended by Katrina L. of Concord Public Library: “Neema Kraa never intended to be part of the trials to pick the new emperor of Orrun. But when one of the eight contestants dies mysteriously, she has no choice — she’s in, as the representative of the Raven god. And now, she’ll either become emperor or die trying.”
Kin by Tayari Jones “Beautifully written historical fiction that follows … two young Black women coming of age in a small town in Louisiana in the 1950s … on their separate paths as they struggle to find security and connection, while navigating the restrictive roles and expectations placed upon … Black women specifically, in the Jim Crow South,” said Tricia R. of Wiggin Memorial Library.
We Burned So Bright by T.J. Klune “is a heart-wrenching novella reckoning with every kind of grief imaginable. Reading it was hard but cleansing and left me feeling weepy, triumphant, and determined to enjoy my life as it comes,” said Lex H. of Manchester City Library.
You Won’t Forget Me by Mazey Eddings “This wonderfully sweet and angsty sapphic romance about two bandmembers who happen to be childhood friends is a perfect way to start the summer. With a viral fake triangle and road trip chaos, what’s not to love?” said Brooke K. of Manchester City Library.
The Ferryman and His Wife by Frode Grytten “A short story about a dying ferryman revisiting moments of his life through the different passengers he’s connected with. I’d recommend this book to anyone that loved I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman or Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar,” said Adanna of Bookery Manchester.
“If summer makes you SAD, cozy up with The Pelican Child by Joy Williams (longlisted for the National Book Award). Williams is darkly funny and this collection of short stories introduces you to misfits and dreamers navigating the minefields of living in a caustic world that wears you away. These stories are strange, haunting, and wonderful!,” said Larissa Striga of NH Humanities.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir “is another fantastic, highly engaging book from Andy Weir that brings the reader on a science-focused journey through multiple solar systems. Not only does it solve big problems with science, it changes the way we see life, the universe and everything,” said Melissa Edwards of McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center.
Dear Monica Lewinsky by Julia Langbein “I AM FILLED WITH MEDIEVAL LEVELS OF FIRE RAGE AND BLOOD AND NOTHING BUT SAINT MONICA LEWINSKI CAN SOOTHE THIS SAVAGE BEAST,” said Cait of Gibson’s Bookstore.
“I plan to read this before summer is over. The concept of processing trauma through praying to a living person as if they were a saint sounds right up my alley for weirdly enjoyable fiction,” said Jaime of Bookery Manchester.
Good Luck, Babe! by Erin Baldwin “Coming out June 23, the author has described this young adult romance as Heated Rivalry meets the The Amazing Race. Need I say more?” said Brooke K. of Manchester City Library.
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver “A southern Appalachian retelling of Dickens’ David Copperfield, this fast-paced story is nuanced, clever, hilarious, and heartbreaking. A favorite of the Goffstown Library’s Evening Book Discussion group this year,” said Jen W., Adult Services Librarian at Goffstown Public Library
The Entanglement of Rival Wizards by Sara Raasch “This is the book I recommend to anyone who’s chasing the high they got from reading/watching Heated Rivalry. I stumbled upon this author while visiting a small bookstore on vacation, and have read and loved many of her stories since,” said Adanna of Bookery Manchester.
No One Leaves the Castle by Christopher Healy “A book I cannot recommend enough. This story reads like a game of Dungeons and Dragons where the player keeps rolling really low numbers. It is funny, mysterious, and fantastical, all of my favorite things in a novel,” said Sammy Davis, Teen Services Librarian at Nashua Public Library.
Twelve Months by Jim Butcher “is the 18th (!) book in the Dresden Files urban fantasy series, and it really proves that Butcher has yet to run out of steam,” said librarian Christopher L. of Hooksett Library. “Wizard Harry Dresden is picking up the pieces from the events that took place in the previous book, but anyone can jump in here and appreciate Dresden’s unflagging perseverance against his ever-growing list of threats.”
Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo “In San Francisco in 1954, there are many reasons Lily has to be concerned about her identity, the first being she is Chinese American and this takes place during the height of the second Red Scare in America, and the second being that she starts to realize she is attracted to women. This is a journey of self-discovery that is beautifully told,” said Sammy D. of Nashua Public Library.
The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré, a debut novel told in the voice of a young Nigerian servant woman determined to get an education, was recommended by Jen W. of Goffstown Public Library, who said, “I came away from reading this with a sense of hope for the future. There were moments of levity, moments of heartbreak, and ultimately, she triumphs.”
Timeline by Michael Crichton features a time-traveling history professor who gets stuck in 15th-century France. “If you enjoy time travel and fast-paced ’90s adventure stories, this is for you. … I couldn’t put it down,” said Jen W. of Goffstown Public Library
I See You’ve Called in Dead by John Kenney is recommended by Shane P. of Concord Public Library, who summarized it this way: “A jaded obituary writer pens his own obituary, then accidentally publishes it in the newspaper. In the aftermath, he and a friend attend strangers’ funerals, giving him an oddly new lease on life.”
The book also got a shoutout from Heather W. at Derry Public Library, who called it “a witty dark comedy that had me laughing out loud, nearly crying at times, and reflecting on what it means to be truly alive. One of my favorite reads so far this year!”
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi “Word-of-mouth has made this title a recent ‘it’ book, despite being published three years ago,” said Heather W. of Derry Public Library. “Mysterious Theo seems to be a polarizing character among readers, but I happened to love him and the overarching themes of kindness, empathy, and forgiveness that permeate the novel. I enjoy hearing others’ take on the book, too,”
When You Loved Me by Beatriz Williams “A young widow returns to her father’s New England estate determined to discover the truth about the rumor of pirate treasure buried on the property,” said Dorothy H. of Seabrook Library.
Seascraper by Benjamin Wood “If you’re looking for a moody book that makes you feel like you are actually on the shores of the foggy English coast as you root for a young man’s hunger to become a musician and escape his occupation as a shrimper, this one is for you. You’ll feel all the feels,” said Concord Public Library’s Jennifer N.
The Mark of the Dragonfly by Jaleigh Johnson is one of my all-time favorite books,” said Arianna L. of Concord Public Library. “Filled with adventure, friendship, and a steampunk twist, this young adult book was an amazing first installment of the World of Solace series.”
Nine Goblins by T. Kingfisher “Absolutely delightful, surprisingly heartfelt, and as offbeat as the title suggests, this is a wonderful little romp of a book,” said Sarah of Gibson’s.
I fell in love with Nessilka and her misfit band of goblins immediately,” Sarah said.
Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild “A debut novel that hooked me from the very beginning, this love story with a twist leaves you thinking about what happens when things don’t go according to plan, how our past can haunt us, and the value of second chances,” said Heather W. of Derry Public Library.
The Great Houses of Pill Hill by Diane Josefowicz “I just love ‘Cookie’ Cook, art school grad who runs her own interior design business and builds crime dioramas on the side! Subtle wit abounds — New Hampshire settings a bonus!” said Jan L. of Balin Books.
The Botanist’s Assistant by Peggy Townsend “Big-boned, eccentric Margaret Finch has never really fit in at the lab where she works, or anywhere, really. But when she finds her beloved Professor Deaver dead in his office, her world is turned upside down and she’s certain that it’s murder! Margaret must turn detective and discover the killer. Full of interesting tidbits about flowers, plants and poisons, this is a delightful, unusual mystery with terrific characters,” said Robbin B. of Concord Public Library.
The Dentist by Tim Sullivan is the “first in a new series featuring a neurodivergent detective — he has a 97% conviction rate because of his extraordinary attention to detail! New titles in this series are being released each month, so get hooked!” said Jan L. of Balin Books in Nashua.
The Mountain in the Sea by Ray Nayler is “a fascinating exploration of marine life, intelligence, and humanity’s connection to the ocean,” said Breanna B., Marine Educator and Project Assistant at Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation. “I appreciate how The Mountain in the Sea inspires deeper curiosity and respect for the creatures that share our ocean.”
Villains Are Destined to Die by Gyeoeul Gwon “This series follows in the now well-established tradition of an isekaied (transported from another world) main character stuck in a dating simulator/video game that they used to play. But I really enjoyed how the backstory of both the original villainess and our ‘real world’ protagonist mirror each other and provide context that is sometimes glossed over in this genre. … Just be warned that the series is ongoing, so you will have to wait for the conclusion!” said Yvonne F. of Manchester City Library.
Not Quite Dead Yet by Holly Jackson “When Jet is bludgeoned nearly to death on Halloween night the doctors tell her she will be lucky to survive through the next week. Jet is determined that with the time she has left she will solve her own murder. Warning: Happy ending not guaranteed,” said Sammy D. of Nashua Public Library.
What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher is “a retelling of Edgar Allen Poe’s The Fall of the House of Usher that brings a new and unique perspective,” said Arianna L. of Concord Public Library. “Fascinating worldbuilding enhances Poe’s classic gothic stage while also adding Kingfisher’s distinctive wit.”
The Night Hunter by Natalie Moss is “due July 28, but I read the advanced copy!” said Jan L. of Balin Books. “Lions and tigers but no bears, oh my! This South African family tale is both breathtaking and terrifying — you are there, running from bush predators both animal and human. Visceral!”
The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett “A genetically enhanced Sherlock-and-Watson type duo solve a murder mystery — and discover the larger, disastrous machinations lurking in the Empire’s periphery. A great book for lovers of eco-horror and fantasy, with a third installment on the way,” said Shane P., Concord Public Library.
The Unmagical Life of Briar Jones by Lex Croucher “This book is marvelous. Messy, atmospheric, and vividly written — at points it made my stomach turn. The characters are young and imperfect and so so real. Thaumaturgy is a brilliant way to explore how far we’re willing to go for power (and what we lose in the process), and Croucher does a fantastic job walking the line between exposing the toxicity of elitism and acknowledging the poisonous allure of being one of the elites. I loved it,” said bookseller Sarah at Gibson’s.
Headlights by CJ Leede “Gorgeous. Wild. Heartbreaking. Grotesque. A meditation on pain, grief, death, nature, and the beyond, all wrapped up in a thrilling narrative of serial murder investigation and horrors of humanity. This book is stunning,” said Ryan of Gibson’s Bookstore. “I never knew what was coming next, and I loved every second.”
The Duke by Anna Cowan “Sapphic regency where a duke infamous for their cold demeanor is reduced to a pathetic yearning mess when faced with the wiles of a beautiful courtesan? Excellent, give me more. A fantastic read,” said bookseller Fal at Gibson’s.
I Know A Place by Nat Cassidy “All of Nat Cassidy’s stories simmer with a quiet brilliance. Some are a slow burn, some strike immediately, all of them slither under your skin and leave you feeling twitchy and unsettled. I still hate going into gas station rest stops, and not just because they’re usually gross, but because of Nat Cassidy’s story ‘Rest Stop.’ This collection is brilliant and scary and you need it, you need it, you need it,” said bookseller Ryan at Gibson’s.
The Body by Bethany C. Morrow “The Body seethes with rage and religious trauma. It is haunting and sinister and deeply horrific. I loved it, as I love all of Bethany C. Morrow’s books,” said Ryan of Gibson’s.
The Bone Door by Frances White “AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA. That’s it. That’s the review. Read it,” said Fal of Gibson’s.
This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me by Ilona Andrews “Romantic tension, high stakes, a world on the brink of war, this book will have you gripping your book until your knuckles turn white, and you won’t realize you stopped breathing until you’re gasping for breath, whether from relief or something else entirely,” said Fal of Gibson’s Bookstore.
Endless Blue Beneath by Shannon English “Outcast for daring to have feelings for a girl on land, yet encouraged to love as she wants below the surface — this book explores the complex feelings of wanting to be accepted as you are, and the sacrifices some are forced to choose, just to have a chance at a happy ending. Dark, haunting, and addicting, this book will leave you desperately hungering for the next one,” said Fal of Gibson’s.
The Children by Melissa Albert “If you were one of those kids who spent hours reading fantasy series, wishing desperately for your own chance to fall into a magical world, this book is for you,” said bookseller Kat of Gibson’s Bookstore. “This is a story that looms over you as you read. It is layer upon layer of meaning and language and images so vibrant you can taste them. It’s a fairy tale, a family drama, a gothic horror, and so much more. … I think it’s one I’ll be thinking about for many, many years.”
Milkteeth by Caitlin Starling “What if vampires had wet nurses, and what if one of those wet nurses was undergoing her own rebirth into something … other? Milkteeth takes us from the dark, wet walls of the womb out into a violent, gory afterbirth,” said Kat of Gibson’s.
“I recommend The Mad Wife by Meagan Church,” said Shana Hawrylchak, Executive Director of SEE Science Center in Manchester. “It is a fascinating look into 1950s domestic culture, mental health and medical misdiagnoses so common for many women even today. While the narrative is compelling, I definitely recommend that readers spend the time to read the author’s note, which provides some important historical context with modern relevance.”
Nonfiction
The Captain’s Dinner: A Shipwreck, An Act of Cannibalism and a Murder Trial That Changed Legal History by Adam Cohen “This look at a murder/survival story in Victorian-era England will have you on the edge of your seat. You just might finish it in one swallow,” said Erin R. of Derry Public Library.
Total Garbage by Edward Humes “highlights the environmental costs of our throwaway culture and challenges readers to think more critically about consumption, waste, and sustainability,” said Breanna B. of the Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation. “Total Garbage reinforces the connection between everyday choices and the health of our oceans….”
Sarah Chaffee, Director of Development at New Hampshire Humanities, recommended The Banker Who Made America: Thomas Willing and the Rise of the American Financial Aristocracy, 1731-1821, by William Vague. “As a confirmed reader of nonfiction, I have gone all in on the American Revolution this year,” said Chaffee, “and this book presents a unique perspective. It shines a light on … Thomas Willing, whose firm financed Caribbean trade, and legal but unethical privateering. The author underscores deep class divisions that predicted which side of the rebellion one might fall on, but also how class divisions shaped differing solutions to post-war government debt. These are divisions that still reverberate in our country — who should benefit from the wealth built through a system supported by all?”
Ocean Outbreak by Drew Harvell offers “a look at how disease outbreaks are affecting marine ecosystems worldwide, highlighting the importance of ocean research and conservation. Ocean Outbreak helps readers better understand the challenges facing the species and habitats we work to protect,” said Breanna B. of the Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation.
Vagabond by Tim Curry The English actor and singer known for his stage work and many voice acting roles “explores his vagabond spirit in this memoir that looks back on decades of entertaining,” said Erin R. of Derry Public Library, calling it “an open-hearted delight.”
The Common Uncommon by Bernd Heinrich “A renowned scientist elegantly shares his observations and knowledge of nature from having lived in a cabin in the northern forest (Maine) for the past 40 years. I immediately added Heinrich’s other books to my TBR list!,” said Mathew B. of Concord Public Library.
The Hardest, Longest Race: Henry Ford and the Cross-Country Contest That Changed America by Eric Moskowitz is “the riveting true story of the first coast-to-coast automobile race in U.S. history. This Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist sets the record straight,” said Seabrook Library’s Dorothy H.
The Stranger in the Woods by Michael Finkel “is the fascinating, true story of Christopher Knight, who they call ‘the last true hermit.’ At age 20, he walked into the Maine woods and disappeared for 27 years, not having a conversation with another human being for 3 decades. He lived in a tent and broke into local camps/cabins when no one was around and took food, clothing and books but only what he really needed. He hurt no one and just wanted to be alone living his own life and bothering no one. I am fascinated by human nature and psychology and why people do what they do and live how they live. This was very moving,” said Denise of Book Bound.
“If you’re curious about the competition between China and the United States, read Breakneck: China’s Quest to Engineer the Future by Dan Wang,” said Larissa S. of NH Humanities. “It’s a riveting book that blends technology, politics, philosophy, and economics with excellent storytelling. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of China’s meteoric rise, the United States’ building stagnation, and the implications for both countries.”
Rebugging the Planet by Vicki Hird “Insects, mollusks, and more feed other wildlife, support and defend our food crops, and work to clean our water systems. Vicki’s passion for the little creatures all around us comes through in these pages, marveling at their beauty and championing us to make changes and help them,” said Anita F. of NH Audubon, where this book will be the focus of an online discussion in November.
A Short History of Nearly Everything 2.0 by Bill Bryson is “not short in page length,” but “Bill shares information about science topics you have heard of (the big bang) [and] multiple topics you never learned in school with humor and insightful connections to today,” said Melissa Edwards of McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center.
Super Nintendo: the Game-Changing Company that Unlocked the Power of Play by Keza MacDonald is “a really fun history of a really fun company,” said Christopher L., librarian at Hooksett Library. “MacDonald … enhances the storytelling by also making sure to include some of her own experiences.”
The Amazing Generation by Jonathan Haidt and Catherine Price “is a great tool for kids to use to become aware of what’s going on behind the scenes with technology companies and social media,” said Christopher L. of Hooksett Library. “It builds off the ideas Haidt expressed to an adult audience in The Anxious Generation, but the angle here skews more positive.”
“For our tween and teen baseball fans and history buffs, check out Baseball’s Shining Season: America’s Pastime on the Brink of War by Martin W. Sandler and Craig Sandler. This nonfiction title, rich with photographs, recounts America’s love of baseball and need for a diversion during World War II,” said Goffstown Public Library’s Jennifer T.
“Oh Say Can You Say Di-no-saur? by Bonnie Worth, illustrated by Steve Haefele, is a fun way to learn about dinosaurs. Kids get excited to follow along and learn how to pronounce tricky dinosaur names!” said Amanda G., Educator at SEE Science Center.
