From last week's Indie bestseller lists, available at IndieBound.org, here are the recommended titles, which are also Indie Next Great Reads:
Hardcover
Plain Bad Heroines: A Novel by Emily M. Danforth, illus. by Sara Lautman (Morrow, $27.99, 9780062942852) "I have never read a book that was this much fun. This was a roller coaster of a read, hitting all the notes from beginning to end. Gothic elements intermingled with the current time period will keep the reader so engrossed that they won't realize they've stayed up all night reading this book, one that's the kind of book you don't want to read in the dark but you just can't put down. The ride through history that meets the present will keep you entertained, on your toes, and peeking between your fingers as you cover your eyes." --Sandra Cararo, The Book Dragon, Staunton, Va.
Invisible Girl: A Novel by Lisa Jewell (Atria, $28, 9781982137335). "Lisa Jewell has become one of my absolute favorite thriller authors. She's an automatic must-read for me and should be for everyone who loves dark, twisty thrillers. This latest is no exception. In fact, she just keeps getting better and better! If you haven't read her yet, start with Invisible Girl--I guarantee you won't be able to put it down!" --Becky LeJeune, BookBar, Denver, Colo.
Paperback
Crazy Stupid Bromance by Lyssa Kay Adams (Berkley, $16, 9781984806130). "Alexis' life has been a bit crazy lately. In addition to uncovering a family secret, she owns a cat café, which has become a meeting ground for women who have experienced sexual harassment, and is in love with her best friend, Noah. Noah is also in love with Alexis and reluctantly receives help from the Bromance Book Club. Adams delivers a funny, romantic novel that touches on major issues, including the aftermath of speaking out about sexual harassment, forgiveness, compassion, and trust." --Anastasia Wiley, Rakestraw Books, Danville, Calif.
For Ages 4 to 8
Fern and Otto: A Story About Two Best Friends by Stephanie Graegin (Schwartz & Wade, $17.99, 9780593121306). "Fern and Otto is a beautiful celebration of discovery, adventure, and friendship. It is a charming reminder that all of life's experiences are more exciting when shared with friends! A sweet story that will resonate with kids of all ages." --Anderson McKean, Page and Palette, Fairhope, Ala.
For Ages 9 to 12
Measuring Up by Lily LaMotte, illus. by Ann Xu (HarperAlley, 22.99, 9780062973870). "A really cute graphic novel about a girl who moves from Taiwan to Seattle. Cici has a close relationship with her grandmother back home, who taught her how to cook some of her favorite dishes. Cici makes friends but is often subjected to microaggressions from these friends as well as adults. She desperately wants to bring her grandmother for a visit and enters a cooking contest to win the money. What comes out of this contest is both surprising and heartwarming." --Audrey Huang, Belmont Books, Belmont, Mass.
For Teen Readers
Where Dreams Descend by Janella Angeles (Wednesday Books, $18.99, 9781250204356). "Moulin Rouge meets Phantom of the Opera in this stunning debut by Janella Angeles. Filled with wonder, sultry performances, and dark mysteries, this book had me on the edge of my seat. I cannot stress enough how fun and dark this one was! This book, with its show-stopping magic, secrets galore, and an unsolved mystery, is not one to miss!" --Haley Calvin, Neighborhood Reads, Washington, Mo.
[Many thanks to IndieBound and the ABA!]
