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"Under the Paper Moon" by Shaina Steinberg is a fast-paced debut novel that combines romance and action. Set in 1948 Los Angeles, the story follows Evelyn Bishop, a former spy who becomes a private eye. When her first client's husband is found dead, Evelyn teams up with a fellow spy from her past to investigate the murder. The plot unfolds predictably but is executed with flair and wit. Steinberg's background in screenwriting shines through in the narrative. Overall, "Under the Paper Moon" is an enjoyable read that will leave readers eager for more from the author. [Extracted from the article]

This document is a comprehensive list of 66 self-published books in a variety of genres, such as fiction, poetry, mystery/thriller, romance/erotica, and nonfiction. Each book is accompanied by a short description and information on where it can be purchased. The authors range from emerging writers to established ones, and the books cover a wide range of topics and themes. This list offers library patrons a diverse selection of self-published books to explore for their research needs. The summaries provide a glimpse into the content and themes of each book without any personal judgments or opinions. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on new titles from self-publishers, showcasing 50 books with descriptions provided by the authors and a list of retailers selling each book. Topics include a diverse range of genres such as fiction, mystery/thriller, SF/fantasy/horror, romance/erotica, and nonfiction, covering themes from cultural landscapes and adoption trauma to herbal remedies and FF1600 racing.

This document is a list of 83 self-published books across various genres, including fiction, nonfiction, romance/erotica, and memoirs. Each book is accompanied by a brief description provided by the author and information on where it can be purchased. The summaries aim to give library patrons an overview of each book's subject matter and themes, allowing them to decide if they want to explore the books further. The document is concise, culturally sensitive, and respectful of diverse perspectives, providing readers with a range of options to choose from. [Extracted from the article]

Loaf the Cat Goes to the Powwow is a children's picture book written by Nicholas DeShaw and illustrated by Tara Audibert. The story follows Loaf, a feline protagonist, as she accompanies her Ojibwe-cued caretaker, Charlie, to a powwow. Through Loaf's perspective, readers are introduced to the powwow's Grand Entry, capturing the energy of the event. The digital illustrations by Audibert effectively depict the playful nature of the cat and the participation of the boy in the powwow. This book is suitable for children aged 3 to 7. [Extracted from the article]

"My Body Is Paper" is a collection of unpublished stories and poems by Gil Cuadros, an author known for his work on queer Chicano experiences during the AIDS epidemic. The book explores themes of mortality, sin, and spirituality. The stories and poems touch on topics such as suicide, shame, caretaking, and queer futurity. The collection serves as a tribute to Cuadros, who passed away prematurely. [Extracted from the article]

"Threads of Treasure: How to Make, Mend, and Find Meaning Through Thread" by Sara Barnes is a reflective guide to embroidery that features open-ended projects and profiles of fabric artists. The book showcases embroiderers who incorporate found items into their work, artists who use needlework to mend clothes and celebrate existing possessions, and those who create daily installments of thread art. The book includes three projects that provide conceptual guidance rather than step-by-step instructions, allowing crafters to explore their creativity. With profiles, photos, and inspiring work, this book offers a refreshing approach to embroidery for those seeking more freedom in their craft. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Publishers Weekly provides a review of the book "Settle the Score" by Kris Ripper. The story follows Des, a former journalist, and Orion, a pro soccer player. Des had previously outed Orion in a college paper, causing him to go into hiding. When Des is tasked with signing Orion for a marketing campaign, he travels to Orion's cabin, but is met with hostility. However, when they become trapped together due to a snowstorm, they must work through their issues. The review praises Ripper's character development and narrative voice, making it an enjoyable read. [Extracted from the article]

"The Squish" is a children's picture book by Breanna Carzoo that tells the story of a sandcastle protagonist who faces a series of challenges and indignities after being stomped on by one of its creators. Despite its efforts to rebuild itself, the sandcastle is repeatedly destroyed by various forces. However, when it encounters another sand creation that has also been squished, the sandcastle realizes that they are not alone in their struggles. With the help of engineering-minded sand crabs, the two sandpiles come together to form a dual-towered castle, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and resilience. The book features visually engaging cut-paper collage illustrations and is suitable for children aged 4-8. [Extracted from the article]

Anil Ananthaswamy's book, "Why Machines Learn: The Elegant Math Behind Modern AI," attempts to explain how artificial intelligence (AI) works by scanning data for patterns and making predictions. However, the book's detailed breakdown of probability, principal component analysis, and eigenvectors may be difficult for readers without an advanced math degree to understand. While there are some interesting examples, such as how statisticians determined the authorship of the Federalist Papers, the book is primarily filled with complex equations and proofs. General readers may find it challenging to follow. [Extracted from the article]

"Planes Flying over a Monster: Essays" by Daniel Saldaña París is a collection of essays that explores the author's relationship between place and identity. The essays reflect on the author's experiences in different cities, including Mexico City and Madrid, and delve into themes of self-discovery, alcoholism, and the challenges of being a writer. With a perceptive and compassionate eye, París examines the complexities of belonging and the process of recording one's self on paper. This thought-provoking collection offers readers a unique perspective on the intersections of personal and geographical identity. [Extracted from the article]

Merdaddy by Wednesday Kirwan is a children's book that depicts the playful and protective relationship between a father and child. The story follows the merdaddy and merbaby as they interact with various sea creatures, including sharks, jellyfish, otters, and turtles. The illustrations, with their vibrant colors and cut-paper elements, showcase the bond between the two characters. The book ends on a tender note, highlighting the merbaby's desire to stay in the water forever and the merdad's gentle reminder that it's time to get out. Recommended for children ages 4-8. [Extracted from the article]

In "1974: A Personal History," Francine Prose, a bestselling novelist, recounts a pivotal year in her life through her debut memoir. The memoir focuses on Prose's experiences in 1974, when she was 26 years old and preparing to publish her second novel. During this time, she met Tony Russo, who had been indicted for leaking the Pentagon Papers, and became involved in a tumultuous affair with him. Prose weaves her personal story with historical events such as the Patty Hearst kidnapping and Nixon's resignation, providing a poignant reflection on her own coming-of-age against the backdrop of political cynicism in 1970s America. [Extracted from the article]

This article is a review and interview with author Cat Sebastian about their book "You Should Be So Lucky." The book is set in 1960s New York City and follows a reporter who falls in love with a shortstop he is assigned to cover. Sebastian explains that they wanted to write an optimistic story set in a difficult time for queer people, as a reflection of the challenges faced by queer individuals today. They also discuss their choice of professions for the characters, the historical context of the newspaper industry, and the portrayal of baseball in the book. Sebastian explores the central conflict of the fear of outing the character Eddie, aiming to challenge the idea that all queer people were completely closeted during that time. The interview concludes with Sebastian discussing the slow-burning nature of the relationship in the book. [Extracted from the article]

CAConrad's latest collection of poems, "Listen to the Golden Boomerang Return," explores organic processes and the relationship between poetry and nature. The poems are shaped like mushrooms and sprouts, with smooth edges resembling shells or leaves. The writing is devoid of punctuation, requiring readers to focus closely. The collection addresses the need to move on from mourning and fall in love with the world as it is. While not explicitly hopeful, the poems encourage readers to find hope in the midst of the climate crisis. [Extracted from the article]

"Bibsy Cross and the Bad Apple" is a children's book written by Liz Garton Scanlon and illustrated by Dung Ho. The story follows eight-year-old Bibsy Cross, who is full of energy and has a lot to say. However, her teacher, Mrs. Stumper, thinks she talks too much and constantly sighs whenever Bibsy speaks up in class. The book explores Bibsy's journey of coming to terms with an adult who doesn't understand her, and it emphasizes her supportive home life and her creative abilities. The story is written in spare, emphatic verse and is accompanied by warmhearted spot cartooning. The book is recommended for ages 7-10. [Extracted from the article]

Sara B. Franklin, a doctoral student at NYU's food studies program, recounts her friendship and collaboration with Judith Jones, a legendary editor at Knopf. Franklin conducted interviews with Jones over six months, resulting in an oral history project supported by the Julia Child Foundation. Inspired by their conversations and friendship, Franklin wrote a biography titled "The Editor: How Publishing Legend Judith Jones Shaped Culture in America." The book draws on Jones's personal papers, interviews with publishing icons, and Franklin's oral history. Franklin highlights Jones's significant contributions to both the literary and culinary landscapes of postwar America. [Extracted from the article]

NEWSKazu Kibuishi launched his middle grade graphic novel series, Amulet, in 2008, and it’s since sold more than two million print copies. The series, which follows the adventures of a girl tasked with saving a magical world, concludes with the ninth volume, Waverider. The trade paper edition is the #6 book in the country; the hardcover is #24 on our children’s fiction list.TOP 10 OVERALLPHOTO (COLOR) [Extracted from the article]

NEWSAfter a string of STEM rom-coms beginning with 2021’s The Love Hypothesis, followed by an advance into YA with Check & Mate, Ali Hazelwood makes another shift with Bride, a “funny and thoughtful urban fantasy romance,” per our review. “It’s a new subgenre for Hazelwood, and she navigates it well, slowly teasing out the sweet and spicy supernatural romance.” It’s #3 on our hardcover fiction list (#5 in the country) and #5 on our trade paper list. Together, the two formats sold nearly 51K print copies, marking Hazelwood’s best debut week to date.PHOTO (COLOR) [Extracted from the article]

NEWSTHE WOMENKristin Hannah #1 Hardcover Fiction, #1 overall “Hannah’s emotionally charged page-turner centers on a young nurse whose life is changed by the Vietnam War,” according to our review. “Fans of women’s historicals will enjoy this magnetic wartime story.”IF ONLY I HAD TOLD HERLaura Nowlin #1 Children’s Fiction, #2 overall This is a companion novel to Nowlin’s 2013 debut, the YA romance If He Had Been with Me, Me which went from modest backlist seller to BookTok phenomenon a decade after its release. The 2019 trade paper edition has sold more than 883K print copies.PHOTO (COLOR)PHOTO (COLOR) [Extracted from the article]

Radiant Raffia: 20 Inspiring Crochet Projects Made with Natural Yarn by Olga Panagopoulou is a debut manual that showcases how to create accessories and homeware using raffia, a fiber derived from palm leaf fronds. The book explores different types of raffia and provides guidance on crocheting with them, including shaping techniques and recommended crochet hooks. The patterns in the book range from sturdy handbags to summer sun hats, lace tablecloths, ornamental baubles, and a flexible vase. The book includes both written instructions and charts, and features beautiful photos taken on the beaches of Syros, the Greek island where the author resides. This book is recommended for intermediate and experienced crocheters looking to explore new materials. [Extracted from the article]

In "Chasing Hope: A Reporter's Life," Nicholas D. Kristof, a journalist for the New York Times, reflects on his career dedicated to exposing injustice. He recounts his experiences covering various conflicts, social movements, and civil rights abuses over the span of 40 years. Kristof also discusses the editorial dynamics at the Times and shares personal anecdotes. While the tone can sometimes come across as self-regarding, his powerful reportage provides a compelling insight into the world of journalism and the humanitarian crises he has witnessed. [Extracted from the article]

"One Icy Night: 30th Anniversary of the '94 Delta Ice Storm Edition" by W.A. Pepper is a heart-stopping thriller set during a history-making ice storm in the Mississippi Delta. The protagonist, Ruth "Rook" Kellum, finds herself running for her life after making a series of bad choices. The story is fast-paced and suspenseful, with every character Rook encounters being suspicious in some way. The author, drawing from his own experiences during the real-life Delta Ice Storm in 1994, effectively portrays the chilling sense of terror caused by the storm. This book is recommended for fans of Last Night by Luanne Rice and Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney. [Extracted from the article]

"Buckle Up" is a heartwarming graphic novel by Lawrence Lindell that explores the aftermath of divorce through the eyes of Lonnie, a young Black boy. Lonnie feels small, angry, and alone since his parents' separation, but he tries to hide his emotions by insisting that his father pick him up from a different location to avoid taunting from his classmates. The story follows Lonnie and his father as they struggle to connect during car rides, with their relationship taking a turning point when Lonnie comes out as bisexual. Lindell's simple yet expressive digital drawings and the novel's humorous tone make for an awkward yet tender exploration of post-divorce dynamics. Recommended for ages 8-12. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a concise overview of the life and career of Zora Neale Hurston, a groundbreaking novelist and anthropologist. The author, Cheryl R. Hopson, explores Hurston's journey from her difficult childhood to becoming the first Black woman to attend Barnard College and her involvement in the Harlem literary scene. Hopson also delves into Hurston's major works, such as Their Eyes Were Watching God, and highlights the themes of love and independence. Additionally, the article discusses Hurston's anthropological work, including her collection of folklore in Haiti and her study of a community of African descendants in Jamaica. While the article lacks style, it offers a factual account of Hurston's life and accomplishments. [Extracted from the article]

Camille Owens' book, "Like Children: Black Prodigy and the Measure of the Human in America," explores the intersection of race and childhood through the stories of talented Black children in American history. Owens highlights the tension between the exceptional abilities of her subjects and the infantilization of Black people, arguing that white supremacists trivialized their talents to maintain the myth of Black inferiority. The book examines the lives of individuals such as Tom Wiggins, Oscar Moore, and Philippa Schuyler, revealing how white society sought to control or explain away their prodigious abilities. While the scholarly discussions in the book may be dense, historians will find valuable insights in Owens' meticulously researched case studies. [Extracted from the article]

In "Finger Exercises for Poets," Dorianne Laux provides a thoughtful exploration of the craft of poetry. Each chapter focuses on a specific literary technique used by well-known poets and offers exercises to help readers incorporate these techniques into their own work. Laux examines the use of tree imagery by Larry Levis, the emphasis on contrast by Li-Young Lee, and other techniques employed by poets such as Sappho, T.S. Eliot, Elizabeth Bishop, and Kwame Dawes. By closely analyzing celebrated poems and providing practical exercises, Laux offers aspiring poets a valuable resource for honing their skills. [Extracted from the article]

"Let the Games Begin" by Rufaro Faith Mazarura is a fun and wholesome debut novel that explores the flirtatious collision between Olympic athlete Zeke Moyo and summer intern Olivia Nkomo. Olivia, an overachieving recent college graduate, hopes to turn her internship with the Olympic Organizing Commission into a full-time dream job. Zeke, a British track star, is determined to win a medal but is distracted by a recent public breakup. When Olivia and Zeke meet on the first day of training, they feel an undeniable chemistry. As they navigate the pressure of the games and their professional goals, their cute romance provides a lighthearted escape. [Extracted from the article]

"An Unkindness of Shadows: The Strange Encounters of Justin Margrave" by John Linwood Grant is a collection of short stories that blend horror and historical fantasy. The stories, narrated by white art critic Justin Margrave, are connected by a frame narrative following the struggles of queer Black gallery owner Marcus Evanche in 2015 Camden, England. The best entries in the collection focus on themes of female vengeance and haunting folk traditions, offering a nuanced and sympathetic portrayal of British gay life from the late 1940s to the days of Thatcher. While the connection between Margrave's past and Evanche's present feels disjointed, the individual stories are well worth reading. [Extracted from the article]

"The Undermining of Twyla and Frank" by Megan Bannen is an enchanting fantasy rom-com set in the whimsical world of Tanria. The story follows middle-aged neighbors and best friends, Twyla Banneker and Frank Ellis, who have spent eight years patrolling Tanria as marshals. When a fellow marshal is found dead and Frank becomes the guardian of a baby dragon, Twyla and Frank find themselves caught up in a mysterious and dangerous situation. Bannen's skillful genre blending and witty prose create a seamless mix of romance, mystery, and adventure. The mature protagonists offer a refreshing perspective on love and self-discovery in midlife, and the novel explores themes of second chances and the transformative power of friendship. This book will appeal to fans of T.J. Klune and Alix E. Harrow, and it celebrates the enduring magic of love at any age. [Extracted from the article]

"Daughters of Olympus" by Hannah Lynn is a retelling of the myth of Demeter and Persephone, focusing on the theme of a mother's loss. After being raped by her brother Zeus, Demeter gives birth to twins Core and Iacchus. When Zeus kills Demeter's mortal lover, Iaison, she takes Core to Earth, where she is eventually abducted by Hades. The author skillfully portrays the divine characters as both powerful and vulnerable, highlighting Demeter's anguish and Core's despair. This unique feminist take on Greek mythology stands out from other similar works. [Extracted from the article]

"Smothermoss" by Alisa Alering is a debut novel set in 1980s Appalachia that combines mountain magic and teenage angst. The story follows sisters Sheila and Angie, who live with their mother and great-aunt Thena after a traumatic event involving their father. Sheila, who sees a rope tied around her neck that no one else can see, works at a state asylum for the criminally insane, while Angie communicates with characters from her tarot-like drawings. When two women are found murdered near their home, the sisters use their magic to try and find the killer. The book offers an evocative portrayal of the rural setting, although some readers may find the plot confusing. [Extracted from the article]

"Lion Dancers" is a children's graphic novel that tells the story of Wei, a young boy of Chinese descent who dreams of becoming a champion lion dancer like his father. However, after his father's death, Wei quits lion dancing and distances himself from his best friend and dance partner, Hung. Two years later, Wei joins a junior lion dance team and reignites his passion for the sport, impressing the group with his talent and dedication. The novel explores themes of friendship, teamwork, and forgiveness, and includes facts about lion dancing at the beginning of each chapter. [Extracted from the article]

"The Danish Secret to Happy Kids: How the Viking Way of Raising Children Makes Them Happier, Healthier, and More Independent" by Helen Russell is a guide that explores the parenting culture in Nordic nations, often referred to as "Vikings." The author, a British journalist who moved to Denmark, shares her experiences and observations on how Danish parents trust their children to figure things out, manage their surroundings, and engage in moderately risky play. The book includes interviews with experts who support this approach and emphasizes the importance of allowing siblings to settle disputes and letting children make mistakes. This book offers an alternative to helicopter parenting and promotes children's autonomy. [Extracted from the article]

This article is a review of the book "Crochet Monsters: With More than 35 Body Patterns, You Can Mix and Match Options for Thousands upon Thousands of Possibilities!" by Megan Lapp. The book provides instructions on how to crochet customizable fantasy creatures by combining different body shapes, limbs, tails, and horns. The author assumes that readers have some familiarity with crocheting and includes a glossary of lesser-known techniques. The designs in the book are cute and allow for personalization. Overall, the book is recommended for amigurumi crocheters. [Extracted from the article]

"Meet Me at the Starlight" by Rachel Hauck is a poignant second-chance romance set in the town of Sea Blue Beach, Florida. The story revolves around the 100-year-old Starlight skating rink, which has served as a refuge for needy families during the Great Depression and hosted various events. When the mayor plans to demolish the rink and replace it with a shopping center, the townspeople, along with the rink's owner Tuesday Knight and her grandson, movie star Matt Knight, join forces to save it. As Matt and former supermodel Harlow Hayes, who once co-starred in a romantic comedy, fight to protect the Starlight, their own relationship faces challenges that they must overcome with trust and faith. The novel skillfully weaves in flashbacks to the 1930s, adding depth to the characters and their love story. [Extracted from the article]

Lizzy Dent's novel "Just One Taste" follows Olive, a London food critic who unexpectedly inherits her father's restaurant. Olive is tasked with collaborating with Leo, her father's sous chef, to finish the cookbook he was working on before his death. Despite their initial animosity, Olive and Leo's trip through Italy leads to a simmering romance. The book offers vivid descriptions of the Italian countryside and is recommended for those seeking a romantic armchair vacation. [Extracted from the article]

"Between Friends and Lovers" by Shirlene Obuobi is a heartfelt romance that explores the intersection of love and mental health. The story follows Dr. Josephine Boateng, a popular Instagram influencer who struggles with career uncertainty and the lack of mental health support in the medical industry. When Josephine confesses her feelings for her best friend, actor Ezra Adelman, and is rejected, she meets writer Malcolm Waters at a party. They are initially attracted to each other and embark on a dating journey, but their relationship is tested when Josephine receives a distressing call from her estranged mother. Obuobi skillfully addresses mental health issues and creates a supportive partner in Malcolm. This layered romance is likely to resonate with readers. [Extracted from the article]

In "Sounds Like a Plan," authors Pamela Samuels Young and Dwayne Alexander Smith collaborate on a series launch featuring Los Angeles private investigators Mackenzie Cunningham and Jackson Jones. Mackenzie and Jackson, both young and Black, initially view each other as friendly rivals but are forced to work together when they are independently hired to find a missing person. As they delve deeper into the case, they discover a more sinister plot and must clear their names. While the book offers entertaining banter between the protagonists, the plot lacks surprises, making a sequel unlikely to be in high demand. [Extracted from the article]

"The King of Video Poker" by Paolo Iacovelli is a caustic debut novel that follows the downward spiral of a professional video poker player. Set in Nevada and Las Vegas, the unnamed narrator is on a losing streak and struggling with depression after the death of his hero, golfer Arnold Palmer. He also grapples with his strained relationship with his 15-year-old son and hires a Vegas escort named Sophia. The plot takes a dark turn as the narrator hatches a sinister plan. Iacovelli's precise writing makes this disturbing character study hard to look away from. [Extracted from the article]

"Elevator in Saigon" is a fiction novel by Thuân, translated from Vietnamese by Nguyê˜n An Lý. The story follows a Vietnamese woman who becomes an amateur detective after her mother's accidental death. The protagonist, a single mother living in Paris, discovers a notebook and a photo of a man named Paul Polotsky, which leads her to uncover her mother's past as a political prisoner during the Vietnam War. The novel skillfully combines elements of detective fiction with a exploration of family secrets. [Extracted from the article]

In "Creating Superfans: How to Turn Your Customers into Lifelong Advocates," Brittany Hodak, co-founder of marketing agency Bright Ideas Only, provides a program for fledgling businesses to cultivate loyal customers. Hodak's "SUPER model" emphasizes starting with your story, understanding the customer's story, personalizing, exceeding expectations, and repeating the process. She encourages business owners to humanize their brand by sharing personal inspirations behind their company and to focus on customers' desires rather than just the product itself. The book offers practical advice with a conversational and humorous tone, providing a guide for small businesses to build lasting customer relationships. [Extracted from the article]