Compelling Women in Thrillers

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24 November 2023

What makes a great thriller? The heart pounding “OMG will they live” moments. The twists and turns you didn’t see coming. And of course, the characters that provide addictive intrigue. Check out the following thrillers with compelling women who take the lead—either down a path of justice or destruction…

Those Empty Eyes by Charlie Donlea

Alexandra Quinlan was just a teenager when her family was brutally murdered in their home. After being accused of the killings and terrorized by the media with the nickname “Empty Eyes,” Alex changed everything about herself. But even a new name, appearance, and backstory won’t stop the past from coming back to haunt her. And now, ten years later, it’s her turn to find the truth…

All the Dark Places by Terri Parlato

On a frigid January morning, Molly Bradley wakes up to her worst nightmare. There, on his office floor, her husband lays dead, his throat brutally slashed. Molly is devastated. Not only was he her rock, but he was also the only one who understood her nightmare past. Now it’s up to her and a police detective to find the killer—before Molly is the next target.

The Other Mistress by Shanora Williams

Adira Smith-Cortez has the perfect life. She’s a multi-millionaire with the world at her fingertips, plus a lovely husband she adores. But when her attentive, affectionate husband begins having affairs behind her back, Adira concocts the perfect plan to get her spouse back in line. However, Adira’s plan will grow into an obsession that may have deadly consequences…

The Secrets We Share by Edwin Hill

Twenty years ago, Natalie and Glenn’s father was found murdered in the woods behind their house. Though the killer was caught, a new dead body appears decades later with unexpected connections. Now their father’s murderer is called into question. Did the police catch the real killer? Or have they managed to stay hidden all these years? Now, the sisters can’t trust anyone. Not even each other.

You Can Hide by Rebecca Zanetti

Agent Laurel Snow’s relationship with her newly discovered half-sister, Abigail, is complicated. Her erratic behavior is enough to put Laurel on edge. And when bodies begin to pile up in their hometown, there’s one connection between the victims Laurel can’t ignore: Abigail. Could her troubled sister be involved in these murders? Or will she soon be a victim herself?

One Last Chance by Kat Martin

When agent Skye Delaney’s sister suddenly goes missing, she knows a local cult may have a part in her disappearance. But investigating an organization like Children of the Sun is too risky to do alone. Luckily, her handsome coworker, Edge Logan, has offered to be her backup. But will Edge and Skye be able to unmask the high-stakes conspiracy before it’s too late?

Reprinted with permission from Kensington Books.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

By

Jocie McKade

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23 November 2023

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From the staff of Reader’s Entertainment….wishing all those who celebrate…..a very Happy Thanksgiving.

TAKE ON GIANT MONSTERS IN “DAWNRUNNER”

By

Jocie McKade

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22 November 2023

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An all-new sci-fi epic comes to Dark Horse from rising stars Ram V and Evan Cagle

Hop aboard massive mechs and battle giant monsters in Dark Horse Comics’ newest sci-fi epic, Dawnrunner! Comics superstars, Ram V (The Many Deaths of Laila Starr) and Evan Cagle (The Witcher) helm the series with story by V and interior and cover art by Cagle. V and Cagle join forces with colorist Dave Stewart (B.P.R.D.) and letterer Aditya Bidikar (Blue Book). Fans should also keep an eye out for five different variant cover versions of Issue #1 by various artists, including Matias Bergara (John Constantine: Hellblazer), Dike Ruan (Shang-Chi), and Tula Lotay (Barnstormers).

A century ago, a portal opened over Central America and giant monsters known as the Tetza came through, changing our world. Now, the world puts all its effort into making the Iron Kings–giant mechs that are forever battling the Tetza for humanity’s continued survival in gladiatorial combat.

Anita Marr is the greatest of the Iron King pilots, chosen to work with a new secret prototype named Dawnrunner. An Iron King that could change the tide in humanity’s favor.

Dawnrunner #1 (of 5) will be in comic shops on March 20, 2024, and is available for pre-order now at your local comic shop for $4.99.

Praise for Ram V and Evan Cagle:

“The Many Deaths of Laila Starr #1 does something that too few comics do. It presents an elegant, richly human story told in a steady, poetic voice with equally elegant and poetic art that speaks to a larger sense of the living experience.”—Comicbook.com

“If futuristic adventure stories are your forte, then Paradiso #1 may be your new book to check out this December. Full of action, great backstory, and a cliffhanger ending, Ram V and his team of artists crafted a wonderful book.”—Outright Geekery

Dark Horse Comics

Sneak Peek: Double Take by Lynette Eason

By

Jocie McKade

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22 November 2023

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Double Take by Lynette Eason

With over forty books published, USA Today bestselling author Lynette Eason has become well known for her adrenaline-laced suspense novels. In her newest work, Double Take, Eason catapults readers into her Lake City Heroes series. Filled with danger, mystery, and the perfect touch of romance, this chilling novel will have fans racing through the pages as they try to outrun a dangerous killer.

Eighteen months ago, Physician Assistant Lainie Jackson was attacked and shot by the person who was supposed to love her the most—her fiancé, Adam. Although Lainie survived, she continues to be hunted by someone who looks like Adam. But how can that be since she ended up killing her fiancé in self-defense?

After being honorably discharged from the Army Criminal Investigation Division, Detective James Cross now works with his friend and partner, Cole, at the Lake City Police Department. When James is injured, he ends up in the hospital under the care of Lainie. As their relationship deepens, James is determined to help Lainie by finding out if the past has come back to haunt her—or if the recent attempts on her life come from a new threat.

Join Lynette Eason for another spine-tingling thriller, where time is running out and failure is not an option.

Ned Blackhawk’s Landmark History of America Wins National Book Award in Nonfiction

By

Jocie McKade

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22 November 2023

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On Wednesday night, Ned Blackhawk won the National Book Award in nonfiction for his groundbreaking history The Rediscovery of America: Native Peoples and the Unmaking of U.S. History.

Hundreds attended the 74^th National Book Awards in New York City, raising more than $1 million for the National Book Foundation, which oversees the event and provides a wide range of public and educational programs.

Published by Yale University Press, The Rediscovery of America builds on decades of new scholarship in Native American and Indigenous studies to reveal an expansive, overdue retelling of U.S. history—one that recognizes Native peoples are fundamental to understanding the evolution of modern America.

The Rediscovery of America is being hailed as “an essential remedy to the historical record” (Esquire), “a monumental achievement” (Mother Jones), and “a sweeping, important, revisionist work of American history that places Native Americans front and center” (New York Times Book Review, cover review).

Ned Blackhawk (Western Shoshone) is the Howard R. Lamar Professor of History and American Studies at Yale University, where he is the faculty coordinator for the Yale Group for the Study of Native America. He is author or co-editor of three other books in Native American and Indigenous history.

In its announcement, the National Book Foundation said, “Historian Ned Blackhawk recontextualizes five centuries of U.S., Native, and non-native histories to argue that in the face of extreme violence, land dispossession, and catastrophic epidemics, Indigenous peoples played, and continue to play, an essential role in the development of American democracy.”

New Release: The Narrow Road Between Desires By Patrick Rothfuss

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Jocie McKade

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21 November 2023

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The Narrow Road Between Desires By Patrick Rothfuss

#1 New York Times-bestselling phenomenon Patrick Rothfuss returns to the wildly popular Kingkiller Chronicle universe with a stunning reimagining of “The Lightning Tree.” Expanded to twice its previous length and lavishly illustrated by Nate Taylor, this touching stand-alone story is sure to please new readers and veteran Rothfuss fans alike

No one taller than the stone.
Come to blacktree, come alone.
Tell no adult what’s been said,
Lest the lightning strike you dead.

Follow the Kingkiller Chronicle’s most charming fae as he schemes his way through the small town of Newarre. While Bast cares nothing for the laws of man, he is beholden to older, deeper laws. And despite his cleverness and care, Bast finds himself forced to choose between betraying his master and helping a hated enemy.

Playful, sweet, and sly as Bast himself, The Narrow Road Between Desires explores a previously unseen part of Temerant, and shows a side of Bast we’ve only glimpsed before. Learn more about Bast as he goes against his better judgement and follows his heart’s desire. For after all, what good is wisdom if it keeps you from finding your way to danger and delight?

Kiddie Academy® launches new children’s book to help families manage ‘first day of child care’ anxiety

By

Jocie McKade

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21 November 2023

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Kiddie Academy^® Educational Child Care, a nationally recognized system of comprehensive educational child care franchises, teamed up with New York Times bestselling children’s book illustrator Daniel Wiseman to create “Day One Is Fun!,” an age-appropriate storybook about what to expect on the first day of child care or preschool. The limited-edition picture book is a gift for families who tour any one of the 325 Kiddie Academy locations across the country. The book launch coincides with National Family Literacy Month.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9221851-kiddie-academy-new-childrens-book-helps-families-manage-first-day-of-child-care-anxiety/

“Children and parents both experience a level of anxiety and apprehension with the first day of child care,” said Joy Turner, Kiddie Academy vice president of education. “We want to calm their nerves and assuage their fears with our beautifully illustrated story of 3-year-old Sophie and her first day at Kiddie Academy.”

Kiddie Academy chose Wiseman, best known for his children’s book “The World Needs More Purple People” authored by Kristen Bell, to visually depict what a child’s experience would be like at Kiddie Academy. While the story is specific to Kiddie Academy, the “first-day feelings” are universally relatable to parents and families with children in child care.

“As a parent, I know firsthand the anxiety some children face as they begin school. I also remember how strong my desire was to help my own children feel more comfortable with their new routine,” said Wiseman. “Creating ‘Day One Is Fun!’ for Kiddie Academy has given me the opportunity to help children all over the country calm their ‘first-day-of-school’ jitters and instead, create excitement around going to school—and I think that’s pretty awesome!”

“Day One Is Fun!” showcases the socialization and learning benefits of educational child care. Families who tour a Kiddie Academy will receive a copy of the book. Visit kiddieacademy.com/academies to find the nearest location.

About Kiddie Academy^®Since its inception in 1981, the Kiddie Academy system has been recognized as a leading brand in educational child care. The company serves families and their children ages 6 weeks to 12 years old, offering full- and part-time care, before- and after-school care, and summer camp programs, through the Kiddie Academy system. Kiddie Academy’s proprietary Life Essentials^® Curriculum, supporting programs, methods, activities, and techniques help prepare children for life. The company’s philanthropic efforts, including support of national nonprofit Family Promise, take character education lessons learned in the classroom beyond Academy walls. Kiddie Academy Domestic Franchising, LLC has also received corporate accreditation from the globally recognized Cognia accreditation system, signifying its commitment to quality education and the highest standards in child care. For more information, visit kiddieacademy.com or find Kiddie Academy on Facebook at Facebook.com/KiddieAcademy.

There’s a Book for That: Thanksgiving

By

Jocie McKade

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21 November 2023

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“Wear gratitude like a cloak, and it will feed every corner of your life.” – Rumi

This week we celebrate Thanksgiving. It’s a wonderful time for new and old traditions with family and friends, and certainly a time for reflection and gratitude. Happy Thanksgiving to one and all, and thank you for reading! Please enjoy these books for all ages:

We Gather Together by Denise Kiernan WE GATHER TOGETHER: A NATION DIVIDED, A PRESIDENT IN TURMOIL, AND A HISTORIC CAMPAIGN TO EMBRACE GRATITUDE AND GRACE by Denise Kiernan

From Ancient Rome through 21st-century America, bestselling author Denise Kiernan brings us a biography of an idea: gratitude, as a compelling human instinct and a global concept, more than just a mere holiday. Spanning centuries, We Gather Together is anchored amid the strife of the Civil War, and driven by the fascinating story of Sarah Josepha Hale, a widowed mother with no formal schooling who became one of the 19th century’s most influential tastemakers and who campaigned for decades to make real an annual day of thanks.

Thanksgiving by Sam Sifton THANKSGIVING: HOW TO COOK IT WELL: A COOKBOOK by Sam Sifton; Illustrated by Sarah Rutherford

From the national editor and beloved former food critic at the New York Times comes a smartly-written, accessible, recipe-filled, authoritative guide to Thanksgiving dinner—not just surviving it, but pulling it off in style.

Poems of Gratitude by POEMS OF GRATITUDE edited by Emily Fragos

For centuries, poets in all cultures have offered eloquent thanks and praise for the people and things of this world. The voices collected here range from Sappho, Horace, and Rumi to Shakespeare and Milton, from Wordsworth, Rilke, Yeats, Rossetti, and Dickinson to Czesław Miłosz, Langston Hughes, Yehuda Amichai, Anne Sexton, W. S. Merwin, Maya Angelou, and many more. Devotional lyrics drawn from the major religious traditions of the world find a place here alongside poetic tributes to autumn and the harvest season that draw attention to nature’s bounty and poignant beauty as winter approaches. The result is a splendidly varied literary feast that honors and affirms the joy in our lives while acknowledging the sorrows and losses that give that joy its keenness.

FOR YOUNGER READERS

We Gather Together (Young Readers Edition) by Denise Kiernan WE GATHER TOGETHER: YOUNG READERS EDITION by Denise Kiernan

This young readers’ adaptation of the New York Times bestselling We Gather Together shares the true story of how Thanksgiving became a national holiday and the way gratitude is looked at in America

Keepunumuk by Danielle Greendeer, Anthony Perry and Alexis Bunten KEEPUNUMUK: WEEÂCHUMUN’S THANKSGIVING STORY by Danielle Greendeer, Anthony Perry, Alexis Bunten, Garry Meeches Sr.

In this Wampanoag story told in a Native tradition, two kids from the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe learn the story of Weeâchumun (corn) and the first Thanksgiving.

Giving Thanks by Denise Kiernan GIVING THANKS: HOW THANKSGIVING BECAME A NATIONAL HOLIDAY by Denise Kiernan; Illustrated by Jamey Christoph

The beautifully illustrated true story of how Thanksgiving became a national holiday in America, of Sarah Josepha Hale, the woman who made the holiday happen, and of the role of gratitude the world over.

WE ARE GRATEFUL: OTSALIHELIGA by Traci Sorell, Frane Lessac

The word otsaliheliga (oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah) is used by members of the Cherokee Nation to express gratitude. Beginning in the fall with the new year and ending in summer, follow a full Cherokee year of celebrations and experiences. Written by a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, this look at one group of Native Americans is appended with a glossary and the complete Cherokee syllabary, originally created by Sequoyah.

THANKS FROM THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR by Eric Carle

Perfect for Thanksgiving or any day of the year, this charming book of pictures is the colorful way to tell loved ones “thank you!” Featuring art from the World of Eric Carle, this joyful book follows The Very Hungry Caterpillar and celebrates all that makes us most thankful.

For more information on these and related titles visit Thanksgiving 2023

PenguinRandomHouse

Sneak Peek: Your Fault by Mercedes Ron

By

Jocie McKade

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20 November 2023

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Your Fault by Mercedes Ron

From TikTok and Wattpad sensation Mercedes Ron comes the English translation of the next in the hit Culpable series, a delicious and angsty enemies-to-lovers romance.

When Noah fell in love with Nick, she knew their relationship would never be easy. They’re fire and electricity, and when they’re together, every kind of sparks fly. After last summer, Noah thought their passion had grown stronger than their fear, but her life is about to turn upside-down again now that she’s starting university. Moving again while maintaining her relationship with Nick will be a difficult hurdle, with their age difference, campus life, dangerous parties, and inner demons stalking them both, reminding them of all they still don’t know about each other.

No matter how hard they try, there will always be wounds that won’t close. Is Noah really prepared to overcome her fears and truly trust someone again? Will Nick be able to put his past behind him and keep his heart open?

Or are they doomed only to burn each other’s worlds down?

PODCAST::: Second Chances and Hope with Author Elaine Roth

By

Jocie McKade

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20 November 2023

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Second Chances and Hope with Author Elaine Roth on Book Lights

LISTEN HERE!

Elaine Roth is a New Jersey based author who writes about young widowhood, grief, and dating as a solo parent. Her work has appeared on HuffPost, Refinery29, Modern Loss, and Scary Mommy. Her story was also featured on People.com and in the New York Times. She has two kids and an adorably neurotic rescue dog who keep her busy when she’s not writing or teaching Pilates. You can read her story on reconstructingayearinhope.com or connect with Elaine on Instagram @thisyoungwidowlife. You can learn more on her website: https://www.elaineroth.com/

And for more about our host Lisa Kessler visit http://Lisa-Kessler.com

Book Lights – shining a light on good books!

Here’s a look at Elaine’s latest release THE MIDNIGHT GARDEN:

From debut author Elaine Roth comes a hopeful and heartfelt story about a young widow who uncovers the magic of everyday life—and the power of second chances.

After the sudden death of her husband, Hope finds herself reeling from the loss in more ways than one. First a young wife and now a grieving widow, she feels like fodder for never-ending town gossip.

But when Hope meets Will, a screenwriter back in town to run his family’s inn, she sees in him another resident oddball. And like her, Will has been navigating a loss of his own.

As Hope falls for Will, she seeks out another enigma in town: Maeve, an eccentric woman who makes healing teas and communes with the dead. Some of the townspeople think she’s a grifter, a fake. Will, too, is skeptical.

Hope yearns for closure and forgiveness, seeing in Maeve the chance to trust herself again—and in Will, a chance to rediscover the enchantment in the world around her…

And the courage to build a bigger life than she ever thought possible.