Leah's Listens

If you enjoyed Circe, then you’ll love Women and Other Monsters.

“A perfect introduction to Women’s Studies using familiar and recognized pieces of western mythology. Moyen strikes a perfect balance allowing Zimmerman’s self deprecating humor and keen critical voice to come through. If you enjoy the retelling of story or the surprise of a different perspective, you will love Women and Other Monsters.”

Charity, Schuler Books

Everybody Has a Podcast (Except You)

“I'm lucky enough to be a frequent guest on others' podcasts, but I didn't know much about how to produce, publish, and promote my as-yet-nonexistent podcast. I listened to the audio version of this and really enjoyed it even though I wasn't already an established fan of the authors' podcasts. There was a good bit of technical info that one would ordinarily have to dig around for online. They talk about what equipment you do and don't need, and walk you through what you'll require day one and what can wait until you've made a mint. Glad to have this one in my arsenal should I ever create my own show! ”

Janet, Avid Bookshop

First Comes Like

“The third installment of Alisha Rai's Modern Love series might just be her best. Jia is a practicing Muslim who has been communicating with soap star and son of Bollywood royalty, Dev Dixit. Dev has recently arrived in Hollywood with his niece and Uncle in tow to make his crossover attempt in the American television market and he has no idea who Jia is. Through a series of events that only Rai could conjur, the two go from a horrifying catfishing situation to fake dating as they attempt to live up to their family expectations. Only, might they be falling for each other? First Comes Like is an insanely steamy yet almost completely sex-free novel that somehow manages to seamlessly fit all the tropes -- from fake dating to arranged marriage to only one bed -- and I could not love it more.”

Faith, Page 158 Books

How to Fail at Flirting

“A sweet romance about a professor who decides to take a chance when she finds herself out at a bar by herself seated next to an attractive man in town on business. Naya never would have imagined that their one-night stand would turn into a week-long fling with the potential for even more. And because of her toxic past relationships, she is hesitant to trust Jake. I loved reading about a professor as a romance leading lady!”

Kate Storhoff, Bookmarks

If you enjoyed When No One Is Watching, then you’ll love How to Catch a Queen.

“After reading "When No One Is Watching" by the brilliant Alyssa Cole, I couldn't wait to get my hands on "How To Catch A Queen", the first of her Runaway Royals series. This novel is the perfect update to the regency romance subgenre! Strong female representation, a setting rich in culture and tradition up against changes that threaten the patriarchy, and an arranged marriage are the makings of a highly entertaining romance. Not to mention the dazzling narration by Karen Chilton (her reading had me laughing out loud more than once!). This is my first romance by Alyssa Cole, and now I can't wait to work my way through her backlist!”

Jessica, Main Street Books Davidson

Newbery Honor Book

“A captivating story about family’s enduring bonds.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Another wondrous title from a remarkably talented author.” —Booklist (starred review)

“A 10 out of 10. Anyone interested in science, sibling relationships, and friendships will enjoy reading We Dream of Space.” —Time for Kids

Newbery Medalist...

A YALSA 2022 Amazing Audiobooks for Young Adults Selection!

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before meets The Farewell in this “entertaining and nuanced” (Kirkus Reviews) romantic comedy about a college student who hires a fake boyfriend to appease her traditional Taiwanese parents, to disastrous results, from the acclaimed author of American... Read more »

With Anna-Marie McLemore's signature lush prose, Dark and Deepest Red pairs the forbidding magic of a fairy tale with a modern story of passion and betrayal. Summer, 1518. A strange sickness sweeps through Strasbourg: women dance in the streets, some until they fall down dead. As rumors of witchcraft spread, suspicion turns toward Lavinia and... Read more »

If you enjoyed A Song Below Water, then you’ll love The Deep.

“This book has the power to transform. The approach to trauma (both individual and generational), the world building, the relationships... Solomon has created something undeniably special and incredibly important. And the mythology? I am blown away. Give me more Black mermaids STAT!”

Britt, Second Star to the Right

Poetic Remedies for Troubled Times

“Timely, heartwarming, and brimming with tough love, this little volume is just what we all need. Zura Johnson’s narration is versatile and absolutely perfect. ”

Leah, Bards Alley

From the award-winning author of The Field Guide to the North American Teenager comes a whip-smart and layered romantic comedy. Perfect for fans of Nicola Yoon and Jenny Han. 

Henri “Halti” Haltiwanger can charm just about anyone. He is a star debater and popular student at the prestigious FATE academy, the dutiful first-generation Haitian son,...

Legendborn

“I am blown away, out of the water, and through the roof. If this book doesn't make ALL the best of 2020 lists, I will burn them to the ground. Legendborn had me hook, line, and sinker from the start, and it just kept getting better. Bree is a force to be reckoned with and I loved her wholeheartedly. Deonn never reduces her or holds back the anger that is rightfully hers, nor does she reduce Bree to that anger. This is a story of overcoming grief and turning it into something hopeful. This is an ode to family (both found & born), to Black Girl Magic, to overthrowing that which only serves a privileged few. And that Twilight reference? Slayed me! A blazing beauty of a book. My only complaint is that now I have to wait for the next one.”

Britt, Second Star to the Right

Eat a Peach

“This memoir by renowned chef David Chang is less a traditional memoir and more about the trials and tribulations of opening your own business, how to build and maintain a team of people, and the ups and downs of what it feels like to have all the weight on your shoulders. I relate to his story, and anyone who’s ever tried to build something from nothing will feel like Chang is speaking directly to them. I loved this book.”

Michael , Books Are Magic

The Silver Arrow

“This great adventure takes us into the realm of climate change, endangered species and the Golden Rule - do unto the Earth that which you would like the Earth to return to you. We CAN do better. We MUST do better. AND why not have the adventure of a lifetime while we are at it? Would be an excellent read-a-loud for middle grade. I listened to "The Silver Arrow" and the narrator makes me wish the story would never end. He gets the pacing and voices just right and I could not turn it off. I went an extra mile walking the pups just to finish. I will be looking for more from Lev Grossman and seeking out audio books read by Simon Vance. Extraordinary. ”

Carolyn, Anderson's Bookshop

The Voting Booth

“Marva is stoked to vote in her first election. She's driven, focused, passionate about civic involvement and unapologetic. Duke is only voting out of honor to his older brother's memory. When Duke learns he isn't at the right polling place, Marva has to step in to help. As their whirlwind day takes off from there, the two strangers learn more about themselves and each other than they bargained for. A sweet story that isn't afraid to comment on current social issues, this is a great listen for those who enjoy audiobooks!”

Chelsea, Parnassus Books

You Should See Me in a Crown

“I am a puddle of happy tears. If you're looking for Black joy, queer joy, this one's a must read. Cute and fun and real, Leah Johnson has written one for the underdogs, about rewriting the rules and getting to be yourself. I devoured it. I wish I'd slowed down. I loved Liz. I loved Mack. And I'd love a sequel please.”

Britt, Second Star to the Right

An insightful, inspiring, “candid and warm” (Booklist) memoir from Karamo Brown—beloved culture expert from Netflix’s Queer Eye—as he shares his story for the first time, exploring how the challenges in his own life have allowed him to forever transform the lives of those in need.

When Karamo Brown first auditioned for the casting directors of... Read more »

Naturally Tan

“Maybe the most fun audiobook ever. Plus I know now how to find the perfect pair of jeans.”

Mollie, HearthFire Books and Treats

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

GOOGLE'S BEST AUDIOBOOKS OF 2019

NPR'S FAVORITE BOOKS OF THE YEAR

INDIE BESTSELLER

GOODREADS CHOICE AWARD WINNER: BEST MEMOIR & AUTOBIOGRAPHY

A laugh-and-cry-out-loud memoir from the beloved star of Netflix’s Queer Eye, Jonathan Van Ness, sharing never before told, deeply personal stories of growing up gay, transforming...

"Wonderfully geeky and deeply compassionate." —Marieke Nijkamp, #1 New York Times bestselling author

In this charming novel by Eric Smith, two teen gamers find their virtual worlds—and blossoming romance—invaded by the real-world issues of trolling and doxing in the gaming community.

We all need a place to escape the real world. For Divya and... Read more »