From the shelves

Through spring and summer, we now fall into reading


By Tom Mayer
tmayer@cullmantimes.com

So many books, so little time, so … let’s get to it. Here we offer two dozen titles that I’ve picked and plucked from the … more than a few dozen … I receive from publishers each year. From the best nonfiction (and a journey through history with Pope Francis), children’s fiction (just try to resist a story with the title, “Two Friends, One Dog, and a Very Unusual Week”) and fiction from acknowledged masters to masters-in-the-making, this list isn’t exhaustive — somewhere north of 1 million books are published each year — but I’m betting you’ll find more than few titles listed here to ignite your fall reading.

“Ferris” (Candlewick) by Kate DiCamillo: Introduce a ghost and a family of warring raccoons into Ferris Wilkey’s summer before fifth grade and it becomes a season of sheer pandemonium. As always, DiCamillo's writing shines with warmth and empathy.

“After Annie” (Random House) by Anna Quindlen: A poignant story of loss and the long road to healing following the death of Annie Bowen as her husband, children and closest friend are left to understand and repair the chasms left in their own lives and addictions. The novel is a beautiful exploration of love, grief and resilience.

“The Number One Lawyer” (Little, Brown and Company) by James Patterson and Nancy Allen: The authors team for a fast-paced legal thriller about a top lawyer who becomes a top murder suspect following the death of his wife. The novel is a gripping page-turner filled with unexpected twists and turns.

“Life: My Story Through History” (HarperOne) by Pope Francis, translated by Aubrey Botsford: Pope Francis shares his personal journey intertwined with pivotal moments in modern history, offering insights into his faith and leadership. This memoir is a deeply reflective and inspirational account of a life dedicated to service.

“Friends in Napa” (Mindy’s Book Studio) by Stella Yasmin Marikar with an introduction by Mindy Kaling: Marikar’s novel is a delightful exploration of friendship and wine in California's Napa Valley, where six old friends reunite to navigate life’s complexities … and the illusion of friendship. The story is filled with warmth, humor and a touch of nostalgia.

“Two Friends, One Dog, and a Very Unusual Week” (Peachtree) by Sarah L. Thomson, illustrated by Vin Vogel: Thomson presents a heartwarming tale of friendship, adventure and Otto the dog that turns two soon-to-be friends' world upside down. Those who loved “The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking” will relish this new tale.

“For Worse” (Blackstone Publishing, paperback) by L.K. Bowen: This dark thriller puts readers into intricate plots of marital revenge as Ellie tries to, again, leave her seemingly picture-perfect married life. A tale about a psychologically abusive, manipulative and cruel marriage keeps readers on the edge.

“The Forgetters” (Heyday) by Greg Sarris: Sarris delivers a compelling tale of memory and identity, as two crow sisters, Question Woman and Answer Woman, must work in tandem to recount the journeys of the Forgetters. The novel, told in the style of Southern Pomo and Coast Miwok creation stories, is a profound meditation on the power of storytelling.

“Lost to Dune Road” (Thomas & Mercer, paperback) by Kara Thomas: Pulled back into an unsolved murder after a mistake ruined her reporting career, Lee Ellerin finds a chance for redemption in finding the killer. Thomas weaves a tale of secrets buried along a road to vindication. The story is a haunting exploration of the past's grip on the present.

“Pictures of Time” (Silver Street Media, large format) by David Alexander with graphic design by Tommy Steele: A tale of time is told through photographs as the book explores how art and science converge and cross. The book is rich with vivid descriptions and thought-provoking themes.

“Murder on Demand” (Blackstone Publishing) by Al Roker and Matt Costello: Book 4 in Roker’s The Morning Show Murders series takes place a decade after Billy Blessing’s adventure in Chicago. Much has changed for Blessing in the past 10 years, but when a woman walks into his life talking about murder, things start to seem very familiar. The novel is a clever, fast-paced thriller with a bookish twist.

“Matterhorn” (Mac Dekker Book 1) by Christopher Reich: Mac Dekker is living in an Alpine village, trying to put his past in the past — until he learns that his son, following in his footsteps, was killed in the Alps. Reich crafts a tense military thriller set against the backdrop of a high-stakes mission. The novel is packed with action, suspense and geopolitical intrigue.

“The Hunter’s Daughter” (Berkley, paperback) by Nicola Solvinic: Suppressed childhood memories return after Lt. Anna Koray kills a man in the line of duty. The novel is a haunting exploration of family as a serial killer emerges — and one who is both copying her father and seems to know way too much about her.

“The House That Horror Built” (Berkley, paperback) by Christina Henry: House cleaner Harry Adams tries to do her job, keep her head low and safeguard the employment she need to support her son. She maintains all of that until she hears noises from behind a locked door that sound like a human cry for help. The story is a spine-chilling mix of gothic horror and psychological suspense.

“In Our Stars” (The Doomed Earth Duology) (Ace) by Jack Campbell: Campbell’s space opera is an epic tale of love, loss, and interstellar conflict. The novel is a sweeping adventure that explores the human spirit's resilience in the vastness of space as the genetically engineered — and ostracized because of it — Lt. Selene Genji is thrust four decades into the past with a chance to save Earth from the annihilation she witnessed in her present time.

“Freeset” (The Four Cities Series Book 3) (Blackstone) by Sarina Dahlan: This sequel to “Reset” (“Preset” was the first in the series) continues the thrilling saga of a group of Dreamers fighting to find each other after Tabula Rosa — the process that wipes citizens’ memories every four years. The story is built on a foundation of family and hope … and fragile trusts.

“Camino Ghosts” (Doubleday) by John Grisham: The best of the Camino Island series to date (“Camino Island” and “Camino Winds” preceded), Grisham’s latest legal drama follows a seasoned lawyer on a quest for justice in a small coastal town. The justice here is social as the sole descendent of a community of runaway Black slaves must save a haunted island, and her heritage, from the hands and wallets of developers. The novel is a gripping exploration of corruption and redemption.

“Lake County” (Thomas & Mercer, paperback) by Lori Roy: Reimagining the life of Marilyn Monroe, aka Aunt Jean, involves a niece and her boyfriend, who also happens to be part of the illegal bolita he’s running on mob lands. When he’s forced to make a deal that could save both of their lives, worlds are altered in an atmospheric 1950s setting from the Edgar Award-winning Roy.

“Serendipity” (Dutton, paperback) by Becky Chalsen: Chalsen weaves a heartwarming tale of unexpected love and second chances set in the charming backdrop of a seaside town. The novel is a delightful mix of romance, humor and serendipitous moments as Maggie reconnects with her ex-boyfriend and ex-best friend. In a summer share house named Serendipity, Maggie, with the help of her friends, will try to get her life back on track — if she can avoid the drama running on the rails.

“Shelterwood” (Ballantine Books) by Lisa Wingate: Exploring a centuries-old legacy of missing child cases, Wingate’s novel tells the story of a long-hidden burial site in the newly minted Horsethief Trail National Park. When a ranger’s quest for justice unearths more than the burials from a century ago, the book becomes a poignant exploration of memory, loss and the story of children abandoned by the law.

“The (Mostly) True Story of Cleopatra Needle” (Holiday House) by Dan Gutman: Gutman’s novel is a playful retelling of Cleopatra’s life, with a humorous twist that reimagines history: Could Central Park’s Cleopatra’s Needle have been built by thousands of people in 1461 BCE? The story is a fun and educational romp through the ancient world.

“Jackpot Summer” (Penguin) by Elysa Friedland: Born into a frugal family, the four Jacobson siblings have nonetheless made a mess of their adult financial lives. Whiles one declines to partake, the other three buy a (winning) Powerball ticket and soon find their lives really spiraling out of control. The story is a suspenseful exploration of greed, family, fate and drama.

“The Helper” (Blackstone) by M.M. Dewil: Written by a former monk from North India who is today an award-winning Hollywood director and director, Dewil’s novel is laced with lies, deceit, revenge and how one woman struggles to earn her own piece of the American Dream. The debut is a testament to the author’s biting wit and satirical commentary.

“Winter Lost” (Mercy Thompson, book 14) (Ace) by Patricia Briggs: Ancient and arcane magics are at work, as is Mercy Thompson Hauptman’s mate, a werewolf protector of the Tri-Cities of Washington State, and her brother, Adam, who needs a helping hand in Montana. “Winter Lost” is the 14th segment of this best-selling, highly rated urban fantasy series.

https://admin-chicago2.bloxcms.com/cullmantimes.com/tncms/admin/action/main/preview/site/news/local_news/book-review-from-the-shelves-through-spring-and-summer-we-now-fall-into-reading/article_3b8f40be-7606-11ef-9abd-cfb2461d1793.html

https://www.enewscourier.com/news/local_news/book-review-from-the-shelves-through-spring-and-summer-we-now-fall-into-reading/article_524898e4-f93a-51f9-a113-e18e78a507d6.html

https://www.newsaegis.com/news/local_news/book-review-from-the-shelves-through-spring-and-summer-we-now-fall-into-reading/article_c3e1721a-d995-5c12-9cb7-5606b4aec459.html

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

M.M. Dewil’s debut novel, “The Helper,” is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the dark underbelly of the American dream. With a narrative fueled by lies, deceit, and revenge, Dewil crafts a story that is both relentless and thought-provoking.

The protagonist, Mary Williams, finds herself at a crossroads when she unexpectedly loses her job and faces the possibility of losing custody of her daughter. Desperate and vulnerable, Mary answers an unusual help wanted ad, setting off a chain of events that will change her life forever. Dewil’s portrayal of Mary is raw and authentic, capturing the desperation and determination of a woman on the brink.

One of the standout elements of “The Helper” is Dewil’s biting wit and satirical social commentary. The novel offers a scathing critique of modern society, exposing the facade of the American dream and the lengths people will go to maintain it. Dewil’s sharp prose and keen observations make for a compelling read that is as entertaining as it is unsettling.

The pacing of the novel is expertly handled, with each twist and turn keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Dewil’s background as a Hollywood writer and director is evident in the cinematic quality of the storytelling, making “The Helper” a page-turner that is hard to put down.

In addition to its thrilling plot, “The Helper” also explores deeper themes of identity, power, and survival. Mary’s journey is not just one of external conflict but also of internal struggle, as she grapples with her own sense of self and the choices she must make to protect her daughter.

For fans of psychological thrillers like “Gone Girl” and “The Push,” “The Helper” is a must-read. Dewil’s debut is a masterful blend of suspense, social commentary, and character-driven storytelling that will leave readers questioning the nature of truth and the cost of survival.

“The Helper” is a powerful and addictive read that marks M.M. Dewil as a writer to watch. It is a novel that lingers long after the final page, challenging readers to reflect on the fragile constructs of their own lives.

Thank you for the opportunity to preview The Helper.
This is a strange and creepy story that keeps you wondering till the last page.
Well written mystery and one to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Without giving too much away you won’t expect the ending and you won’t forget either. Very good 3 stars

Thank you #Netgalley for the copy.

Well this one truly caught me off guard. Mary Williams is going through difficult times while trying to maintain a stable home for her daughter. She has lost her job, eventually her home and her daughter full time. So when an opportunity presents itself she finds an internal struggle she doesn't know how to face. When she actually commits, she experiences a moment of shock and can't believe she had been fooled by a scammer. But this scam is a life or death situation. So many twists that keep you motivated to read more.

Excellent layering brings this story to life, then sets the characters up to make some decisions that will shock some. Mary has no income, no job and a child to support so her choices are limited. MM Dewil brings Mary to an edge, then leaves her to dangle while she weighs the future vs an unusual job offer. As the story weaves Mary closer to a point of no return, readers will stay up late to see where she ends. WOW!

Many thanks to the publisher for my copy. All opinions are my own.

This book hits every mark if what you want is something hugely unique with a totally unexpected storytelling voice. Starting out with a delicious slow burn vibe, it quickly morphs into an addictive psychological thriller roller-coaster about halfway through and doesn't let up through the end.

Serving up wildly dynamic characters and plenty of twists, this is pure entertainment from start to finish and is unlike anything else I've read yet this year.

No spoilers, but this is a must for summer reading lists if you want something new and fresh to keep you glued to the page.

This book was weird. It wasn't what I expected at all. Not sure if that's a good thing or not. It was okay but nothing spectacular.

The story follows Mary Williams, who is really down on her luck. Life just keeps throwing stones at her. She ends up losing her job as a librarian. She struggles to care for her twelve year old daughter, and to top it all off, is about to be homeless.

Then, Mary replies to a bunch of employment adds in hopes to stay above water.. She meets a man in a Waffle House for an interview who needs a “helper” . Desperate, she takes the job. What is the job? Not what you think it will be.

Dewil’s writing is unique and it was a completely different style than I’m accustomed to. Some of it like poetry and others as manic thoughts and ideas. The Helper starts as a slow burn, however, the second half is highly suspenseful. In fact, the storyline reminds me of another novel. Unfortunately , I can’t tell you what it is. You’re going to have to read it for yourself to find out. As some elements were predictable it didn’t change my enjoyment of the book. The Helper is perfect for fans new to psychological thrillers with twists and turns.

I truly believe M.W. Dewil will continue to write successful stories and I’m definitely here for it! Can’t wait to see what he comes up with next!

Grateful for the opportunity to Blackstone Publishing, M.W. Dewil and NetGalley.
Publication Date June 18, 2024
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This review will be posted to Instagram within the week of publication @nikkileethrillseeker

The Helper just never really engaged me. There were parts where I was hopeful and the tension would creep up but then the book would fall flat again. Unfortunately I never connected with any of the characters. I didn't feel anything against the main antagonist, but I wasn't rooting for Mary either. I found myself not really caring what happened to any of them.

Thank you Blackstone Publishing for providing this eARC for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Pub date 6/18/24

I don’t have a lot to say about this one. It was, in a word, strange. It seems like the book was just a series of short tales, if you even want to call it that; more like internal ramblings that someone decided “let’s put this down on paper” and put together to make up The Helper. It made no sense to me and after 3 chapters I gave up.

4.5⭐️ wow!

This was unique writing style but true definition of psychological suspense as the reader is embedded into Mary’s head while she spirals. I could see it playing out as a gripping movie in my mind from beginning to end.

Mary lost her job and is desperate for income to support her daughter. Eric offers a large sum of money and one request. Mary battles with herself as she considers taking him up on his offer. When she makes her choice, things take an unexpected turn.

Mary felt so realistic and human. More than a written character. I felt like I was in her shoes and could feel her emotions to my core. The descriptions included vast amounts of imagery and were often repetitive, but in an artsy way. I appreciated the light-airy-slowmotion-montage feel and the microbursts of Mary’s daydreams when stress becomes too much and she slips into a figurative state vs remaining grounded in the present.

As a heads up: there are no quotation marks to designate speaking parts throughout the book. They are only italicized. This took some getting used to but eventually added to the charm of the book.

Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for this ARC. Pub Date Jun 18, 2024.

Up until the "twist" (which let's be honest, was visible from miles away), I was entertained to a point. As soon as we hit the twist? I was ready for it to be over. I expected more oomph to be drawn out over the last half of the book.

arc review

I hadn't heard much about this book or author, but when I saw "perfect for fans of Gone Girl and The Push" plus terms like revenge and satirical social commentary, I was sold.

I think there were some really great ideas in this book. The characters were interesting, the plot was unique, and I always love a woman working on her inner strength. My struggle was with the pacing and wishing some parts were more fleshed out. I wish we knew more background about the villain. The ending could have been more satisfying if it was given more time and detail. I would truly enjoy seeing a movie based on this story, so it makes sense the author is a screenwriter.

This may be a good fit if you enjoy:
- villains who are easy to hate
- mother-daughter relationships
- a splash of Indian lore and culture

Rating: I liked it! (3)

A desperate woman answers an ad for an ailing man, not knowing her life is about to change, and things will never be the same for her in this dark and haunting mystery.

The plot of this is what initially pulled me in. The inbalance of the vulnerable and poor and the powerful and rich. When put into certain situations, as in this book, it makes you wonder what you would do if it were you. Needless to say, I enjoyed this one. Just not as much as I could have. The writing itself didn't suck me in, and I didn't feel a real connection with the characters. Some pages felt more like ideas for the story rather than the story being told. There were surprising revelations, and the ending was satisfying. For a new author, I can't wait to see the growth in future reads. Overall, I give these three stars.

Thank you, Netgalley and Blackstone Publishing, for this ARC.

This is one of those books that grows on you as you go along – after a somewhat slow start, the second half of the book definitely holds your interest and provides a satisfying conclusion.
I gave it the following SCORE:
Setting: Jacksonville, Florida, present day
Characters: Mary Williams, single mother with a daughter to support, Eric Smith, a mysterious person who needs a “helper,” and an intriguing and unique set of supporting characters who surprisingly contribute significantly to the story.
Overview: To say too much about the plot, particularly the task the “helper” is assigned, would be to give away a good part of the plotline. Mary loses her job at the library and, in desperation, takes a despicable part-time job and then receives a preposterous proposal from Eric with a reward that would seemingly solve her financial problems and enable her to keep her daughter.
Recommendation: I rate this book 4 stars – 3 for the first half and 5 for the second half.
Extras: This is a fine effort from a new author. Usually, characters that make stupid or nonsensical choices are aggravating and warrant no sympathy – they get what they deserve. But – as this plot unwinds and as the other “actors” come into play, you can’t help anticipating a satisfying conclusion.
Thanx to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for the opportunity to provide this candid review

This was nearly a 4⭐️ read but a bit choppy. However, it was wonderfully different & the suspense, twists & turns were all something I’d never read before. The story was great & really surprising. I believe this was an author’s debut so I’ll look forward to the next as we all grow & improve in what we do.

This psychological thriller is very hard to put down and is filled with surprises, which will make it appealing to so many readers. Mary is down on her luck, about to lose custody of her daughter to her petty, vengeful ex-husband, and about to lose her home. While job hunting, she finds a unique opportunity from a stranger -- he has an unusual request, and if she fulfills it, he promises to pay her 100,000 dollars -- enough to solve all her problems. The question isn't so much will she do it or won't she, but what happens after she makes her decision. Great title!

This is the first book I have read by this author. This book kept me engaged and, turning each page it looking forward to the next chapter with the twist, and turns that occurred…. I did not predict the way this book would turn out and I loved that!!

Mary Williams is down on her luck, she was left go by her current employer, has no savings and her landlord is demanding rent or her and her daughter will be evicted. While conducting on-line job searches Mary comes upon an ad that seems intriguing. When Mary shows up for the job interview she is met with an ailing man asking her to do the unthinkable, in exchange for $200,000. Will Mary bend to his offer? In can change her and her daughter’s life forever, but will it change it for the better or hurt both of them.

Mary Williams has lost her job, may lose custody of her daughter and is teetering on the edge of being completely destitute. Then she sees a help wanted ad from a sick man and, for money, she agrees to do what he asks for…..and that changes everything.

This is a very taut thriller and I liked the concept but wasn’t crazy about the ending. Overall enjoyable, though.