From last week's Indie bestseller lists, available at IndieBound.org, here are the recommended titles, which are also Indie Next Great Reads:
Hardcover
Bad Words: A Novel by Ríoghnach Robinson (St. Martin's Press, $30, 9781250431295). "A book about books, publishing, writing, the internet, and the very best, truly enemies to lovers, unexpected romance. What a timely read--from the constant pressure online to the ways AI is changing publishing. An incredible look at the power of words." --Leighellen Landskov, Fabled Bookshop & Café, Waco, Tex.
The Court of Venus by Bel Banta (Tor, $29.99, 9781250437136). "Combining historical inspiration from the Tudor era with a zodiac-infused magic system provides such a unique fantasy world to immerse yourself in. I loved the court politics, the murder mystery, and the rich, layered romance." --Brooke Williams, Beanbag Books, Delaware, Ohio
Paperback
The Given World by Melissa Harrison (Biblioasis, $18.95, 9781771967365). "Via lulling and compelling nature-documentary narration, each chapter exposes characters in an exhibition which over time becomes overgrown in vast vegetation. A relaxing primer of the waxing storm before the waning calm that is humankind's brief time on this planet." --Ian McCord, Rec Room Books, Athens, Ga.
Ages 4-8
The Little Stone Buddha by Grace Lin (Alvina Ling Books, $18.99, 9780316478403). "The Little Stone Buddha tells such a sweet story of a community coming together to create a home. This is the story everyone needs to read right now as we lean on our communities!" --Rajean Erbar, The Novel Neighbor, Webster Groves, Mo.
Ages 8-12
Starting Now by Janae Marks (Quill Tree Books, $19.99, 9780063427686). "Janae Marks has such a delicate touch with the problems kids face--this book about a girl navigating the growing chasm between her best friends and the temporary guardianship of her estranged brother is no exception. I loved the relationship between Addy and Julian." --Chloe Purton, Books & Company, Oconomowoc, Wis.
Ages 13+
What Feeds Below by Tatiana Schlote-Bonne (Boozhoo Books/Bindery Books, $17.95, 9781967967247). "What Feeds Below is a dark miracle of a book. Schlote-Bonne masterfully weaves together fantasy and horror in a way that left me captivated and disturbed (a compliment). She does an amazing job creating characters who feel REAL--which just made the experience all the more chilling." --Sarah Sedor-George, Bookish, Modesto, Calif.
[Many thanks to IndieBound and the ABA!]
