Amy Kay
Hooked on Books
The staff of the County of L&A Libraries are avid readers and are always eager to share their favourite books. If you’re looking for something to read during this spooky season here are some retellings with a twist featuring witches, demons and other characters, and a page-turning psychological thriller.
Kristin suggests Beasts and Beauty by Soman Chainani
If you’re looking for a spooky and thrilling read for October, be sure to check out Beasts and Beauty: Dangerous Tales a new short story collection from the New York Times bestselling author Soman Chainani. This captivating book contains twelve well-known fairy tales that have been flipped on their head. You won’t know what to expect from these classic tales that have been re-spun for modern times with unpredictable twists, frightening characters and magical illustrations throughout the pages. The writing style of this author is stunningly lyrical, as he manages to capture the true nature of a fairy tale while still making the writing feel modern. These fiercely horrifying and satisfyingly dark stories are just what any teen or adult needs to get them into the Halloween spirit this year. Soman Chainani has given us an exciting collection of new, empowering fairy tales that are sure to be both sensational and exhilarating for every modern reader.
Marg suggests None of this is True by Lisa Jewell
None of This is True by Lisa Jewell, the author of The Night She Disappeared, is a dark, complex thriller with well-timed plot twists and unique storylines. Josie and Alix have a chance encounter at a restaurant while celebrating their 45th birthdays. They are amazed to discover that not only do they share their date of birth but they were also born at the same hospital. With absolutely nothing else in common the two form an unlikely friendship which leads to them working together. Alix, a successful podcaster, is convinced by Josie that she has a riveting story to tell. Josie has deep, dark, dangerous secrets and a mysterious past. Her family life is a complete train wreck. As Josie manages to infiltrate herself into all aspects of Alix’s life the truth, or some version of it starts to unfold. Alix soon realizes that she has to sever all ties with the devious Josie to keep her family out of harm’s way. If you enjoy psychological thrillers as much as I do you may want to add this one to your list.
Amy suggests The Scandalous Confessions of Lydia Bennet, Witch by Melinda Taub
This lively retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, is told from the perspective of Lydia, the much-maligned youngest Bennet sister. The story is filled with enchantment, intrigue and boundless magic as she comes to learn that, for a witch, promises have power. Some facts are well known: Mrs. Bennet suffers from her nerves; Mr. Bennet suffers from Mrs. Bennet, and all five daughters suffer from an estate that is entailed only to male heirs. But Lydia also suffers from entirely different concerns: her best-loved sister Kitty is really a barn cat, and Wickham is every bit as wicked as the world believes him to be, but what else would you expect from a demon? And if you think Mr. Darcy was uptight about dancing etiquette, wait till you see how he reacts to witchcraft. As our heroine says, “though it is dauntingly long I daresay it is charmingly written.” A delight for both Austen lovers and fans of magical adventure stories.
These titles can be reserved at your local branch of the Lennox and Addington Libraries or online at www.countylibrary.ca.