Cooperative Lives by Patrick Finegan
Set inside a post 9-11 New York City, the sadness and distrust of these characters rise off the page. Finegan gives each character, however minor, heft, with backstories and quirks that deepen the plot, as well as exploring varying facets of the human condition. He is a gifted wordsmith, crafting sentences that are rich and multilayered, which propels the story along beyond the intricacies of the plot. A rare work of literary fiction that also shines as a mystery and a thriller, Cooperative Lives offers a brilliant exposé on the shattered nature of modern lives.
Kingdom of the Northern Sun by Clara Martin
Given today’s headlines and divided opinions about refugees, war and misuses of power, this book is a timely and impactful read. Clara Martin balances an engaging plot, compelling characters, and smart allegorical writing to deliver a powerful start to this new genre-bending series. The novel can stand alone as an entertaining work of fantasy, but there are also enough loose ends to keep readers eager for the sophomore offering from this sharp new voice in the genre.
Simon’s Mansion by William Poe
A moving work of LGBT literary fiction. Poe’s writing is understated but still plenty hard-hitting. The inner conflict and emotional turmoil Simon suffers truly resonate, as does his deep-rooted feelings for his mother, Vivian. Simon’s Mansion is an engrossing literary novel that offers a moving tribute to those who are unafraid to make their choices and live by them, for an inspiring story of absolution over adversity.
The Secret Diaries of Juan Luis Vives by Tim Darcy Ellis
A swirling, beautifully penned novel. The level of the prose is where this novel truly shines. When the writing delves into the details of a particular room, or the intricacies of someone’s clothing or face, it is easy to feel transported, caught up in the pomp and circumstance of the enigmatic past. A love letter to another time, The Secret Diaries of Juan Luis Vives is both eloquent and accessible for all readers – an impressive balance that makes reading Ellis’ novel a richly rewarding escape.
Sorrow Ledge by Kenneth Arbogast
A visceral and beautifully penned novel. The story is riveting and patiently told, with just the right amount of historical exposition to situate the reader and immerse us in Ben’s isolated world. The language itself, however, is where this narrative shines, as Arbogast writes with a deft and descriptive pen, stringing together themes that criss-cross the prose, creating a web of emotions and intentions that feel deeply authentic. Sorrow Ledge is an original Civil War story in an unexpected setting that is a dramatic and engaging delight.
Time’s Musicians by Mark Paul Oleksiw
A bizarre, mind-bending story. The descriptions are unique and the imagery is vivid, while the plot twist near the end of the book makes for a stunning turn. Readers are often encouraged to release their inhibitions and suspend their disbelief, but Oleksiw’s writing makes it easy to give in. Time’s Musicians is a suspenseful musing on existence, relationships, truth and purpose, offering a satisfying conclusion, along with plenty of profound questions that will persist long after reading the last page.