The Kingdom of Back by Marie Lu combines music with magic as it follows Nannerl Mozart, the sister of the more commonly known Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect going into this one, but I found myself touched by Nannerl’s longing to be remembered in a society that forbids women from composing. Nannerl herself is well-developed, and the book contains powerful feminist messages. This is a thought-provoking read that shows a new side of Marie Lu. Continue reading
How to Hang a Witch by Adriana Mather is an atmospheric duology that I struggled to put down. Inspired by the author’s own family history, this series puts a modern spin on the Salem Witch Trials and the Titanic. The investigative elements in both books build suspense, and I found the main character easy to root for. I was especially impressed with the author’s skill in integrating the past and the present, making this a great series for fans of both contemporary and historical fiction. Continue reading
Championess by Tarun Shanker and Kelly Zekas is an action-packed story of strength and perseverance despite the odds being stacked against you. It’s no secret that I love any story about sports, and I was excited to see that this one is based on a true story. The main character, Elizabeth Wilkinson, has inspiring toughness, and the gorgeous art makes her story even more compelling. I would definitely recommend this one to those looking for a fresh graphic novel that will keep your eyes glued to the page. Continue reading
My Name is Anton by Catherine Ryan Hyde is an historical fiction book that explores a variety of themes. The characters are well-developed and the writing is beautiful. This story is written in classic Catherine Ryan Hyde style with a huge focus on characters and societal issues. Continue reading
A Royal Christmas Quandary by Samantha Hastings is the perfect read to get you feeling festive. This historical novel contains shenanigans and a bit of mystery as a prince goes missing. Both the main characters are easy to root for, and their dialogue is engaging. This is such a fun read that I would definitely recommend this holiday season. Continue reading