From last week's Indie bestseller lists, available at IndieBound.org, here are the recommended titles, which are also Indie Next Great Reads:
Hardcover
As Many Souls as Stars: A Novel by Natasha Siegel (Morrow, $30, 9780063418028). "The eldest daughter in a family of witches is born 'cursed' again and again. When a demonic entity takes notice and offers her a deal, she takes it. She never expected a tumultuous relationship with a demon that spans centuries." --Jennifer Lieberman, Books Are Awesome, Parker, Colo.
The Bookshop Below by Georgia Summers (Redhook, $29, 9780316561839). "Chiron's Bookshop is where Cassandra grew up, but sinister forces are at play. An ode to bookshops and a somewhat cozy and paradoxically dark magical fantasy. An exciting read!" --Aerie Brown, Blue Willow Bookshop, Houston, Tex.
Paperback
Everyone in the Group Chat Dies: A Novel by L.M. Chilton (Gallery/Scout Press, $19, 9781668094174). "A deliciously creepy thriller that perfectly blends murder mystery elements with the absurdities of modern social media culture. A small-town mystery with dysfunctional flatmates, and fast-paced, dark humor." --Lisa Driban, Hockessin Book Shelf, Hockessin, Del.
Ages 4-8
A Stickler Valentine by Lane Smith (Random House Studio, $18.99, 9798217025350). "Stickler is excited to celebrate Valentine's Day with his friends! He knows the perfect gift is a stick, but when he tries to give them out to his friends, no one seems to want them. Stickler realizes that even though sticks are perfect to him, that doesn't mean they're the perfect gift for his friends." --Alice Johansen, An Unlikely Story, Plainville, Mass.
Ages 9-12
Outside by Jennifer L. Holm (Scholastic Press, 17.99, 9781546138143). "Part dystopian, part thriller, all an exciting read! Perfect for pre-teens who are looking for a bit of an adventure. Just remember--don't go outside!" --Ashley Watts, CoffeeTree Books, Morehead, Ky.
Ages 13+
Persephone's Curse by Katrina Leno (Wednesday Books, $21, 9781250342904). "I was completely swept up in this New York City-set, Little Women-inspired retelling of Persephone. I adore sister stories, and the Farthing girls are joining the ranks of literary sisters I love. This is a soulful and enchanting read." --Sherri Puzey, Zibby's Bookshop, Santa Monica, Calif.
[Many thanks to IndieBound and the ABA!]
