The Librarian's Nightstand - Summer 2024

I recently read Elsewhere by Alexis Schaitkin. Vera lives in a seemingly idyllic town with a perfect climate and satisfied citizens. Here, strangers are scarce and everything outside is considered “elsewhere.” However, periodically, mothers “go”—literally disappear without a trace. When Vera becomes a mother, she is opened to an undercurrent of fear and judgement. The townspeople scrutinize mothers, trying to predict who will go and justify who went: did the mother neglect her children? Love too intensely?

This dystopian world takes a very real look into the way motherhood and identity intersect and the judgements made against mothers (and which mothers make against themselves). This book will draw you in if you love lyrical writing, speculative fiction elements, and engaging characters.

Kathleen's favourite book so far this year: The Other Valley by Scott Alexander Howard

Vampires and Werewolves and Soulless, Oh My! Miss Alexia Tarabotti is a member of the high society in Victorian England. A self-declared spinster, she also happens to lack a soul. Navigating London’s societal norms while secretly living in a world where paranormals abound can be exhausting! After a rogue Vampire attacks her, Alexia teams up with an attractive but infuriating Werewolf to find the culprit and ensure her safety. I enjoy how The Parasol Protectorate series by Gail Carriger stirs supernatural elements with historical fiction, giving readers a sense of life in this steampunk society. Soulless provided enough spice between its characters to keep me turning the pages. This series is excellent for anyone who enjoys twisted historical fiction, supernatural reads, and strong female protagonists.

Heather's favourite book so far this year: Maybe In Another Life by Taylor Jenkins Reid

I decided to try something different and dive into Death by a Thousand Cuts by Canadian Author Shashi Bhat. This series of short stories express the challenges that come with the everyday trials and impossible expectations of womanhood with ample wit, depth, and dark humour. A writer discovers that her ex has published a novel about their breakup. An immunocompromised woman falls in love, only to have her body betray her. After her boyfriend makes an insensitive comment, a college student finds an experimental procedure that promises to turn her brown eyes blue. When a woman begins to lose her hair, she embarks on an increasingly nightmarish search for answers. I enjoyed each story immensely and found that each character resonated so closely with me—I highly recommend it!

Emma's favourite book so far this year: What Wild Women Do by Karma Brown

If you enjoy family dramas and cultural stories, try Saumya Dave’s debut novel, Well-Behaved Indian Women. It follows three generations of Indian American women: Nandini, who struggles with past demons, her career, and family expectations; Simran, who rethinks her career and engagement after meeting a charming, inspiring journalist; and Mimi, the supportive grandmother rusty with regrets. 
The novel explores their untold secrets, emotional journeys, and immigrant experiences in America. The characters can be annoying and engaging, making it great for book club discussions. It thoughtfully examines real-life challenges, patriarchal biases, cultural tensions, and the balance between personal space and family dynamics.

Kumkum's favourite book so far this year: The Trespasser by Tana French

One of Us Is Back is the third book in the Bayview High series by Ashley Audrain. I have loved this series since the very start, so it was great to reunite with some well-known characters. I loved the intrigue and suspense! The read was extremely fast-paced, and I flew through it. This novel masterfully brings together characters from two previous books as founders of the murder club with the original Bayview Four Members. Even the villains from the first book are back, with their own narrations. The contribution of the villains is important in answering so many questions about the past and connecting them with the wrapping up of the new mystery.

One of Us Is Back is also my favourite book so far this year. I love a good mystery, so this is right up my alley—and maybe yours, too!