Catherine Coles
Coles’ Notes
The staff of the County of L&A Libraries are avid readers and always eager to share their favourite books. Here we bring you a list of some of the reads we’ve recently enjoyed. This month you’ll find a captivating historical novel, a dark psychological suspense story, a couple of young adult reads (one fantasy, the other historical), and a heart-wrenching memoir from one of the Humboldt Broncos.
Patricia suggests Surviving Savannah by Patti Callahan
“In 1836, the steamship Pulaski set sail for a trip from Savannah to Baltimore. The ship was filled with families heading to their summer homes to escape the Savannah heat. On board the reader meets Augusta Longstreet, a single woman embarking on this trip with her brother’s family consisting of his wife and their six children, and Lilly Forsyth along with her baby Madeline, her nursemaid Priscilla and her husband Adam. Part way through the journey a boiler explodes and the Pulaski sinks. The strength, courage and resilience of Augusta and Lilly are put to the test as they struggle to survive the wreckage. As history unfolds, truths are revealed, lives are explored, and love prevails. Fans of Diane Chamberlain, Sarah Jio, Jennifer Robson, and Joanna Goodman are sure to enjoy this novel.”
Kelly suggests Crossroads by Kaleb Dahlgren
“This stunning book from one of the 13 survivors of the Humboldt Broncos’ bus crash that killed 16 in 2018 offers an incredible looks survival, recovery, and resilience from a horrific tragedy. Dahlgren has divided the book in to three sections. In the first section, we learn about his love of hockey, the frustrating and inspiring journey to approach the game with medical challenges, and the contributions Dahlgren was making to his community. The second part details his recovery in the hospital. He finds out what has happened to his teammates. How many people were injured, and killed. The third part deals with the aftermath of the hospital stay. There is, unexpectedly, no discussion of blame or of the subsequent investigation. This is not a maudlin look at the tragedy but a positive book which is focused on the Broncos and on the people they were then, and who the survivors are now. For another look at how challenging it is to be a pro-athlete with medical issues, please have a look for Max Domi’s No Day Off co-written with Jim Lang.”
Marg suggests The Stolen Sisters by Louise Jensen
“Twenty years ago tragedy strikes the Sinclair family when siblings Leah, Marie and Carly are abducted from the backyard of their house while 13-year-old Carly is left in charge. The trauma they endure in the days to follow will shape their lives for years to come. This fast-paced, dual timeline story by Louise Jensen follows the sisters from the time of the abduction to present day, 20 years later, and a short time before the anniversary of that horrifying day. Told using multiple perspectives, this heart-wrenching story weaves the tale of then and now as it absorbs the reader into the lives of these sisters. As the story unfolds we learn of deep, dark family secrets, of the lies and deceit and ultimately the devastating truth behind the abduction of the Sinclair Sisters.”
Kristin suggests Vow of Thieves by Mary Pearson
“Vow of Thieves is a brand new and deeply satisfying fantasy novel that begins right were the first book in the Dance of Thieves duology left off, giving readers a clean transition between the two stories. Kazi and Jase are on the long journey back to Hell’s mouth to tell Jase’s family the fantastic news that the Queen has made Tor’s Watch a kingdom, and that Jase and Kazi have vowed to be together forever. Unfortunately, when they arrive home all their dreams are quickly shattered as they are greeted with only bloodshed, death, and no family members in sight. During this unexpected ambush, the two lovers are separated and neither of them knows if the other has survived. Will they be able to beat death once again and find their way back to each other? This novel will capture the imagination and excite readers until the very last page thanks to a heart-pounding adventure, beloved characters, and a captivating romance like no other.”
Jennifer suggests The Forest of Stolen Girls by June Hur
“This atmospheric historical mystery set in Joseon Dynasty Korea (early 1400s) is about a teen who returns home to pick up the trail after her father vanishes while investigating the disappearance of 13 young women. It transports readers to 15th century Korea to unravel a compelling mystery that interweaves the real dangers that Korean women faced at the time. This story of identity, belonging, family and historical trafficking of young women is unsettling and memorable.”
All of these titles can be reserved online with your library card at CountyLibrary.ca.