It’s time to find out what our friends at Black Rock Books in Bridgeport, Connecticut are picking to spruce up our fall reading list.
Meg Flynn, co-owner of the bookstore, has observed that readers are relishing the opportunity to delve into intense suspense, thrillers and fantasy adventures.
She says, “It may not be considered as mainstream a genre, but we’re also noticing more readers picking up horror as escapism, which may seem counterintuitive. However it gives readers a place to process their fears or concerns about real life in a contained, fictional setting.”
TWE is always interested in what Meg, Emily Welsh, her co-owner and her staff including Apollo, Meg’s five-year-old avid book reader, find most compelling. Many are under-the-radar gems! As you can see, they have given us lots of helpful book suggestions to ponder in the past.
Here are some new page-turning books for this time of year as winter approaches. Meg and bookseller Kerry May have suggested a range of fascinating and thought-provoking stories along with Apollo commenting on one of his favorites for kids as well! Enjoy!
The Everlasting by Alix E. Harrow (Review by Meg Flynn)–FANTASY
A historian and a lady knight (think Brienne of Tarth from Game of Thrones meets Arthurian legend) must work together to write and re-write history in this time-bending adventure. Harrow explores timely themes; how stories are used to shape our perception; and the thin line between hero and villain, history and propaganda. I am intrigued that these stories are all set to the backdrop of an engrossing, heartbreaking love story.
The Possession of Alba Diaz by Isabel Cañas (Review by Kerry May)–HORROR, THRILLER, SUSPENSE FICTION
Alba wants to be free, and she will do anything to do so; including marrying her best friend whom she does not love. This book is a breathtaking blend of gothic horror and historical fiction with the atmospheric backdrop of mid 18th century Mexican silver mines.
And, you guessed it, Alba has become possessed. This novel is dark; it is suspenseful; and it puts into question for me the power of faith, but it is also a story of finding love in the most unexpected of places.
The Names by Florence Knapp (Review by Meg Flynn) CONTEMPORARY FICTION
Cora’s newborn son needs a name, and she knows the one she chooses will shape the outcome of the rest of his life. Spanning 35 years and told from the alternating perspectives Cora’s three choices (Bear, Julian, and Gordon), Knapp’s debut novel explores familial bonds, our genetic inheritance, and the many “what-ifs” of life. An original and captivating debut.
It tackles heavy subject matter with an optimism that endears each character to the reader. I have been thinking about Cora’s choices and the sacrifices of motherhood long since I set the book down.
Apollo Recommends:
Buffalo Fluffalo and Puffalo by Bess Kalb and Erin Kraan (Review by Meg Flynn) CHILDREN’S FICTION
Apollo and I can’t get “enuffalo” of this silly Buffalo! Back for more adventure in this companion book to Kalb’s debut, Buffalo Fluffalo, Fluff learns about the value of teaching and sharing when the pint-sized Puffalo joins the herd. The charming illustrations and rhyming verse make for a fun family read-aloud.
EYE: What’s next in your bookstore vision, Meg?
MEG: In the new year, we’re looking forward to building on two successful years by focusing on more event series like our popular poet nights as well as book art and wellness workshops that continue to bridge generations. Our shop is not only for book lovers but also an invitation to the broader community that we enjoy seeing month after month.
Website: Black Rock Books CT
Facebook: Black Rock Books l Bridgeport CT
Instagram: blackrockbooksct
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