"How to Sell a Haunted House" by Grady Hendrix

How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix is a spine-chilling novel that takes on the classic haunted house trope and turns it on its head. Hendrix's writing style is immersive, vivid, and brimming with tension, making for a truly thrilling read.

The story follows Louise, who is tasked with selling her family home after the death of her parents. Her brother Mark, who has never left their hometown, is enlisted to help, and the two of them are forced to confront the ghosts of their past, both literal and figurative. As they try to get the house ready for sale, strange and terrifying things begin to happen, and they realize that the house has a life of its own.

Hendrix expertly weaves together elements of horror, mystery, and family drama to create a complex and gripping narrative. The tension is palpable from the first page, and the pacing is spot-on, keeping the reader engaged and invested throughout. The horror elements are genuinely frightening, with Hendrix masterfully building up the tension and delivering some truly chilling scares.

What sets How to Sell a Haunted House apart from other haunted house stories is the depth of the characters and the exploration of family dynamics. Louise and Mark's complicated relationship is at the heart of the story, and Hendrix deftly explores the impact of family trauma and dysfunction on their lives. The portrayal of grief and loss is also incredibly poignant and adds another layer of emotional depth to the story.

One of the novel's most significant strengths is its sense of place. Hendrix's descriptions of the family home and the surrounding town are vivid and atmospheric, immersing the reader in the world of the story. The setting feels like a character in its own right, adding to the overall sense of unease and dread.

The audiobook version of How to Sell a Haunted House is also worth noting. Hendrix's writing style lends itself well to the audio format, and the narrator, Tai Sammons, does an excellent job of bringing the characters and the story to life. The audiobook's production value is high, with sound effects and music adding to the overall creepiness of the story.

Overall, How to Sell a Haunted House is a gripping and terrifying read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Hendrix's writing is masterful, and the exploration of family dynamics and the impact of trauma adds an emotional depth to the story that is often lacking in horror fiction. If you're a fan of horror or just looking for a thrilling read, this book is definitely worth checking out. So why wait? Order "How to Sell a Haunted House" by Grady Hendrix at Amazon at a discounted price. You won't regret it.

"The Postcard" by Anne Berest

Anne Berest's novel, The Postcard, is an engaging and moving exploration of family secrets, personal identity, and the long-lasting effects of historical trauma. It has received numerous accolades, including the American Choix Goncourt Prize, the Prix Renaudot des Lycéens, and the Elle Readers Prize. The book follows the journey of the protagonist, Anne, as she sets out to unravel the mystery behind an anonymous postcard sent to her family fifteen years earlier.

The postcard depicts a photograph of the Opéra Garnier in Paris, and on the back, the names of Anne's maternal great-grandparents and their children, all of whom were killed at Auschwitz during the Holocaust. Anne's quest to discover the identity of the sender and the reason for the postcard sets in motion a profound exploration of her family's history and the broader historical events that shaped their lives.

Through interviews with family members, associates, and a team of experts, including a graphologist and a private detective, Anne uncovers the harrowing story of her great-grandparents, Ephraïm and Emma Rabinovitch, and their children, Noémie and Jacques. The family fled Russia following the revolution, journeyed to Latvia, Palestine, and ultimately settled in Paris. Their story is one of resilience, courage, and tragedy, as they navigate the challenges of displacement, persecution, and ultimately, genocide.

Berest masterfully weaves together historical research, family memories, and personal reflections to create a poignant and gripping narrative that captures the complexity of the human experience. The novel delves deeply into the themes of memory, identity, and the power of storytelling to create meaning out of the chaos of history.

One of the novel's most significant strengths is its nuanced portrayal of the long-lasting effects of historical trauma on individuals and families. Berest explores how the Holocaust and the broader historical events of the twentieth century continue to reverberate through Anne's family and impact their relationships and sense of self. The novel highlights the importance of acknowledging and grappling with the past to heal and move forward.

The Postcard is also a vivid portrait of Parisian intellectual and artistic life in the twentieth century. Berest captures the essence of the city's vibrant cultural scene, populated by writers, artists, and intellectuals, and imbues the novel with a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era.

Overall, The Postcard is a beautifully written, poignant, and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexity of family history and the lasting impact of historical trauma. Berest's masterful storytelling and her ability to capture the human experience make this novel a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of personal and historical memory. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a moving and insightful read.

So why wait? Pre-order "The Postcard" by Anne Berest today at Amazon. You won't regret it!

"The Guest: A Novel" by Emma Cline

The Guest by Emma Cline is a novel that transports its readers into a rarified world of the East End of Long Island. This story follows Alex, a young woman who is not who she seems to be. After a misstep at a dinner party, the older man she's been staying with dismisses her, leaving her with few resources and a waterlogged phone. But instead of returning to the city, Alex stays on Long Island and starts to explore this world. Using her ability to navigate the desires of others, she moves from one place to the next, leaving destruction in her wake.

Cline's writing style is impeccable. The way she sets the scene, describing the hedged lanes, gated driveways, and sun-blasted dunes, immediately transports the reader to this rarified world. The characters are well-developed, and even though Alex is not a likable character, readers will be drawn to her because of the way Cline has written her. The characters around Alex are equally complex, and the way they interact with her adds depth to the story.

One of the things that set The Guest apart from other novels is its exploration of the mutable sense of morality. Alex is not a character with a clear moral compass. Instead, she does what she needs to do to survive, even if it means leaving destruction in her wake. As the story progresses, readers will be left questioning their own moral compass, wondering what they would do in Alex's situation.

The Guest is a taut and propulsive novel that is impossible to put down. From the first page, readers will be drawn into the story and will want to know what happens next. The pacing is perfect, and the tension is always present, even in the quieter moments.

The novel also explores the themes of class and privilege. The world that Alex finds herself in is one of extreme wealth, and the way Cline writes about this world is both fascinating and disturbing. The characters in this world are so consumed by their own desires that they are oblivious to the destruction that they are causing.

The Guest is a stunning literary achievement. Cline has crafted a novel that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. This is a book that will stay with readers long after they have turned the final page. If you are a fan of contemporary fiction, mystery, or literary fiction, this is a book that you do not want to miss.

In conclusion, The Guest by Emma Cline is a must-read novel for anyone who enjoys contemporary fiction, mystery, or literary fiction. The writing is impeccable, the characters are complex, and the themes are thought-provoking. This is a novel that will stay with readers long after they have turned the final page. So why wait? Pre-order The Guest by Emma Cline today at Amazon. You won't regret it.

"The Half Moon" by Mary Beth Keane

The Half Moon by Mary Beth Keane is a beautifully written novel that delves deep into the complexities of marriage, family, and the desire for something more. Set against the backdrop of a bar in a small town, the story follows Malcolm Gephardt, a longtime bartender at the Half Moon who dreams of owning the place. When the opportunity finally arises, Malcolm jumps at the chance, seeing unquantifiable magic and potential in the bar. But as he tries to make changes to the Half Moon, he realizes that his customers don't like change, and making a profit won't be easy.

Malcolm's wife, Jess, is a successful lawyer, but she's struggling with the idea that motherhood may not be in the cards for her. She and Malcolm have been trying to have a baby for years, and as her hopes and expectations fall short of the current reality, she wonders how to reshape her life. As the couple's marriage is thrown into crisis, they must face the harsh realities of what it takes to make a life with another person and the true meaning of family.

One of the things that stands out in The Half Moon is the way Keane skillfully weaves together multiple perspectives and timelines. The story takes place over the course of one tumultuous week, but through flashbacks and memories, we get a sense of the characters' histories and the events that have led them to this point. The narrative structure is complex, but Keane handles it with finesse, seamlessly moving between different points of view and time periods.

The characters in The Half Moon are richly drawn and fully realized. Malcolm is a charming and likable protagonist, but he's also flawed and often blinded by his own ambition. Jess, on the other hand, is fiercely independent and intelligent, but she's also struggling with deep-seated feelings of inadequacy. The supporting characters, including the regulars at The Half Moon, are equally well-developed, and each adds depth and nuance to the story

Another notable aspect of The Half Moon is the way it explores themes of desire, longing, and the search for something more. Malcolm and Jess are both chasing their dreams, but as they begin to realize that their goals may be out of reach, they must confront the harsh realities of their lives. The novel doesn't offer easy answers or tidy resolutions, but instead leaves the reader with a sense of the messy, complicated nature of human relationships and the ways in which we're often forced to reconcile our hopes and dreams with the realities of our lives.

Overall, The Half Moon is a beautifully written and deeply affecting novel that will resonate with readers who have experienced the complexities of marriage, family, and the pursuit of something more. Keane's prose is elegant and precise, and her characters are complex and fully realized. This is a novel that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it, a testament to the enduring power of great literature.

Buy Now: "The Half Moon" by Mary Beth Keane at Amazon

"Sam" by Allegra Goodman

Allegra Goodman’s novel Sam is a powerful and poignant coming-of-age story that offers a profound reflection on themes such as addiction, parenthood, class, ambition, and longing. The story follows the journey of Sam, a young girl who struggles to find her place in the world and to come to terms with the challenges and expectations that come with growing up.

Sam is a character who immediately captures the reader's attention. She is a young girl who loves to climb and finds solace and purpose in the act of overcoming challenges. Her passion for climbing becomes a symbol of her resilience and determination, as well as her yearning for something more than the life she has been given. Sam’s complex relationship with her father and her mother, both of whom struggle with addiction and other issues, adds depth and nuance to the story, highlighting the impact of family dynamics on a child’s sense of self and belonging.

As Sam grows up and faces the challenges of adolescence, she is forced to confront her own doubts and insecurities. Her desire for validation and recognition from her climbing coach, who pushes the boundaries of their relationship, and her struggles with her mother's constant pressure to plan for a more secure future, lead her to question who she wants to be and what she wants from life. Through her journey of self-discovery, Sam learns to find her own voice and to trust her instincts, realizing that she alone has the power to make her dreams come true.

One of the most impressive aspects of Goodman's writing is the way she creates a vivid and immersive world that feels both real and magical. The descriptions of Sam’s climbs are breathtaking, and the way in which they are woven into the narrative adds to the overall sense of wonder and awe. Goodman also captures the complex emotions and conflicts that arise from Sam’s relationships with her family and her coach with nuance and sensitivity, creating a rich and multifaceted portrayal of the challenges and joys of growing up.

The novel is also a powerful reflection on the impact of social class and privilege on a child’s sense of self and belonging. Sam's mother, Courtney, is a single mother who struggles to make ends meet and who constantly reminds her daughter of the limitations of their circumstances. Sam's father, on the other hand, is a wealthy businessman who can come and go as he pleases, leaving behind a trail of broken promises and unfulfilled expectations. Through Sam's eyes, the reader is able to see the stark contrast between these two worlds and the impact they have on her sense of identity and belonging.

Overall, Sam is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that offers a powerful reflection on the challenges and joys of coming of age. Goodman’s writing is spare and elegant, yet full of depth and nuance, creating a story that is both captivating and thought-provoking. The novel will appeal to readers of all ages who are interested in exploring the complexities of adolescence, the impact of family dynamics, and the importance of finding one's own voice and sense of purpose in the world. Highly recommended.

Buy Now: "Sam" by Allegra Goodman at Amazon

"The Shards: A Novel" by Brett Easton Ellis

Bret Easton Ellis is a renowned author known for his provocative and controversial novels. His latest offering, "The Shards," is a gripping and intense thriller that follows the lives of a group of privileged high school friends in Los Angeles in the early 1980s.

The story is told from the perspective of Bret, a 17-year-old senior at the exclusive Buckley prep school. He becomes obsessed with a new student named Robert Mallory, who arrives at the school with a mysterious past. Despite Mallory's mysterious demeanor, he is welcomed into the tight-knit group of friends. Bret's fixation with Mallory grows stronger, and he finds himself unable to shake the feeling that there is something dangerous about him.

Meanwhile, a serial killer is on the loose, targeting teenagers throughout the city. Known as "The Trawler," the killer's grotesque threats and violent acts are drawing ever closer to Bret and his friends. The coincidences between the killings and Bret's life are uncanny, but Bret is unsure whether he is imagining things or if he is in real danger. As his paranoia and obsession grow, Bret's relationships with his friends become strained, and he spirals into isolation.

Ellis's prose is vivid and captivating, painting a detailed picture of a city in the midst of social and cultural upheaval. The novel is set against the backdrop of Los Angeles in 1981, a time when the city was rife with crime, violence, and drugs. Ellis's descriptions of the city's gritty underbelly, as well as its glamorous facade, are haunting and evocative.

The novel's characters are well-developed and multi-dimensional, each grappling with their own personal demons. Bret, in particular, is a fascinating character, struggling to make sense of his own desires and obsessions in a world that is increasingly confusing and dangerous. His relationship with Mallory is complex and fraught with tension, and as the novel progresses, it becomes clear that Mallory is not the only one with secrets to hide.

The Shards is a mesmerizing blend of fact and fiction, seamlessly weaving together real events from 1981 Los Angeles with the imagined lives of its characters. The novel is suspenseful and gripping, with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end. But it is also a poignant and deeply affecting exploration of the emotional lives of its characters, as they grapple with the traumas of youth and the complexities of adulthood.

In conclusion, "The Shards" is a brilliant and thought-provoking novel that will leave a lasting impression on its readers. It is a must-read for fans of literary fiction, thrillers, and mystery, and will undoubtedly solidify Bret Easton Ellis's place as one of the most provocative and talented authors of our time.

Buy Now: "The Shards: A Novel" by Brett Easton Ellis at Amazon

"Final Offer (Dreamland Billionaires, #3)" by Lauren Asher

"Final Offer" by Lauren Asher is the third installment in the Dreamland Billionaires series and follows the story of childhood best friends, Callahan Kane and Lana Castillo, who was torn apart by heartbreak six years ago. Now, their paths cross again when Callahan returns to Lake Wisteria to fulfill his grandfather's will, which requires him to spend a summer at the family lake house before selling it. However, he is shocked to find out that Lana claims to own the house and lives there too.

The story is narrated from the dual perspectives of Callahan and Lana, allowing readers to delve into their individual thoughts, feelings, and motivations. The characters are well-developed, and their chemistry is undeniable. Callahan is a flawed but likable character with a troubled past, struggling with alcoholism and trying to make amends for his past mistakes. Lana is a strong and independent woman who has worked hard to create a successful career for herself, despite the heartbreak caused by Callahan.

The author's writing style is engaging and captivating, drawing the reader into the story from the very beginning. The plot is well-paced, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader engaged, and the romance between Callahan and Lana is both passionate and realistic. The setting of Lake Wisteria is also beautifully described, making the reader feel as though they are actually there.

One of the strengths of this novel is the depth of emotions portrayed by the characters. The author doesn't shy away from depicting the pain, hurt, and anger felt by Lana when Callahan left her without explanation six years ago, making it easy for readers to empathize with her. Similarly, Callahan's struggle with his addiction and the guilt he feels over his past mistakes is portrayed with sensitivity and realism, making him a sympathetic character despite his flaws.

Overall, Final Offer is an enjoyable contemporary romance novel that delivers a satisfying love story while exploring themes of forgiveness, second chances, and self-discovery. The well-developed characters, engaging plot, and beautiful setting make it a great addition to the Dreamland Billionaires series and a must-read for fans of the genre.

Buy Now: "Final Offer (Dreamland Billionaires, #3)" by Lauren Asher at Amazon

"All the Dangerous Things" by Stacy Willingham

"All the Dangerous Things" by Stacy Willingham is a gripping and intense thriller that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat from beginning to end. The novel centers around the devastating disappearance of Isabelle Drake's young son, Mason, and the toll it takes on her mental and emotional well-being.

The story is told primarily from Isabelle's perspective, and the reader is quickly drawn into her obsessive quest to find her son. Willingham does an excellent job of capturing the desperation and grief that Isabelle feels, as well as the toll that her insomnia and anxiety take on her day-to-day life. The author also does an exceptional job of building suspense throughout the novel, keeping the reader guessing about the identity of Mason's abductor and the fate of the missing child.

One of the most compelling aspects of All the Dangerous Things is the way in which the novel explores the psychological impact of trauma on the human mind. Isabelle's own traumatic past is slowly revealed throughout the novel, and her struggle to reconcile her memories and her own perceptions of reality adds an extra layer of complexity to the story. The exploration of the concept of memory and its fallibility is one of the most intriguing aspects of the novel.

The supporting characters in All the Dangerous Things are also well-drawn and compelling. The true-crime podcaster who interviews Isabelle is a particularly interesting addition to the story, as his interest in her past and his relentless questioning put her under further strain. The various police officers and investigators involved in the case are also well-drawn and believable, and their efforts to solve the mystery of Mason's disappearance add to the tension and suspense of the novel.

Overall, All the Dangerous Things is a fantastic novel that will appeal to fans of suspense, mystery, and psychological thrillers. The audiobook version of the novel is particularly well done, with excellent narration that adds to the tension and drama of the story. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a gripping and intense thriller.

"Things We Hide from the Light (Knockemout, #2)" by Lucy Score

"Things We Hide from the Light" by Lucy Score is a gripping contemporary romance novel that combines elements of suspense, mystery, and passion. The book is the second installment in the Knockemout series, and it revolves around the story of Nash Morgan, the chief of police, and his next-door neighbor, Lina.

Nash, who was always known as the good Morgan brother, is recovering from being shot and is struggling with panic attacks and nightmares. He tries to keep his struggles hidden from everyone around him, but Lina, who is smart and sexy, sees through his facade. Lina also has secrets of her own, and she is not looking for a long-term relationship. However, the chemistry between Nash and Lina is undeniable, and they cannot resist the attraction they feel towards each other.

As their relationship deepens, Lina's secrets threaten to come to light, and she fears that Nash will never forgive her. Despite her reservations, she finds herself falling for Nash and the idyllic town of Knockemout. However, danger lurks around every corner, and Nash is not about to let anything or anyone harm the woman he loves.

Lucy Score's writing style is engaging, and she has created well-developed characters that are easy to relate to. The chemistry between Nash and Lina is palpable, and their banter is witty and charming. The suspenseful plot keeps readers on the edge of their seats, and the romantic elements provide a satisfying escape from reality.

Overall, "Things We Hide from the Light" is a must-read for fans of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and chick-lit. The audiobook narration by Amy McFadden is also excellent, and it adds an extra layer of depth and emotion to the story. If you're looking for a book that will keep you entertained and engaged from start to finish, then this is the perfect choice for you.

Buy Now: "Things We Hide from the Light (Knockemout, #2)" by Lucy Score at Amazon

"What Napoleon Could Not Do" by DK Nnuro

What Napoleon Could Not Do, by DK Nnuro, is a powerful and moving novel that offers an insightful perspective on the African immigrant experience in America. The novel follows the lives of three characters with ties to Africa: siblings Jacob and Belinda Nti and Belinda's husband, Wilder. Through their experiences, hopes, and dreams, the novel explores the promise and disappointment of life in America, particularly for African immigrants and African Americans.

The Nti siblings grew up in Ghana with the goal of moving to America, but their experiences in the United States are vastly different. Jacob is an awkward computer programmer who struggles to get a visa to move to Virginia to live with his wife. In contrast, Belinda achieved what her father called "what Napoleon could not do": she went to college and law school in America and married Wilder, a wealthy Black businessman from Texas who has experienced the racism and marginalization that come with being African American in America.

What Napoleon Could Not Do offers a compelling and nuanced portrayal of the African immigrant experience in America. The novel is particularly effective in exploring the differences in perspective between the characters, with Wilder's experiences highlighting the reality of life for African Americans in America. The novel also highlights the tension between the promise and disappointment of the American Dream, as each character navigates their own hopes and ambitions in the face of both opportunity and obstacle.

Nnuro's writing is vivid and evocative, with a keen eye for detail and a deep empathy for her characters. The novel is beautifully crafted, with a structure that weaves together the characters' stories in a way that feels natural and authentic. The historical and cultural context of the novel is also well-researched and thoughtfully integrated into the narrative, adding depth and richness to the story.

Overall, What Napoleon Could Not Do is an impressive debut novel that offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the African immigrant experience in America. It is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read that is sure to stay with readers long after they finish the last page.

"A Living Remedy" by Nicole Chung

"A Living Remedy" by Nicole Chung is a powerful memoir that explores the author's journey to understand the lives of her adoptive parents, the life she built for herself as an adult, and the lives she lost. As an Asian American adoptee, Nicole Chung always felt out of place in her overwhelmingly white hometown in Oregon. However, when she goes to college on the East Coast, she finally finds the sense of community that she had always craved.

Chung's memoir is a deeply personal reflection on the impact of class, inequality, and grief in her life. As she starts her own family and builds a middle-class life, she becomes acutely aware of the differences between her upbringing and the life she is now living. Her father's premature death from diabetes and kidney disease, caused by financial instability and lack of access to healthcare, highlights the persistent inequalities in American society.

In the face of tragedy and hardship, Chung explores the strength of family bonds and the importance of reconciling the distance between different lives and homes. Her memoir sheds much-needed light on the tragic realities of inequality and the struggles faced by families with limited resources.

Overall, "A Living Remedy" is a beautifully written and emotionally charged memoir that touches on important themes of race, adoption, family, and medical care. Chung's personal story is compelling, and her reflections on class and inequality are both thought-provoking and heart-wrenching. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in memoirs, nonfiction, or family and medical literature.

Buy Now: "A Living Remedy" by Nicole Chung at Amazon