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Pepper Basham's novel "Some Like It Scot" follows travel writer Katie Campbell as she navigates a series of mishaps in Scotland, where she feels a connection to her ancestral home. Despite a rocky start with Graeme MacKerrow, the owner of the vacation house she is staying at, the two bond over shared losses and a budding romance. The story is filled with charming characters, local color, and a comedic romance that will appeal to readers looking for a light-hearted read. [Extracted from the article]

Lawrence Lindell, a California-based cartoonist, creates autobiographical comics that touch on personal struggles, mental health issues, and experiences with privacy. Lindell's latest graphic memoir, "We All Got Something," delves into a challenging period in their life, exploring setbacks and efforts to maintain mental health. Lindell's work reflects themes of community, personal growth, and resilience, drawing from their own experiences and struggles. [Extracted from the article]

"House of Blight" by Maxym M. Martineau is a gothic fantasy novel that follows Edira Brillwyn, a threadmender with the power to cure the blight in Willowfell. When her brothers fall ill, Edira must make a dangerous deal with the powerful Fernglove family to save them. As she navigates court intrigue and dark secrets, Edira must find a way to escape the Ferngloves' grasp to protect herself and her family. Martineau skillfully combines familiar tropes into a captivating story filled with romance, betrayal, and suspense. [Extracted from the article]

"Right Back at You" by Carolyn Mackler is a middle-grade novel that follows Mason, a boy struggling with his father's abandonment and bullying at school. After writing a letter to Albert Einstein, Mason receives a response from Talia, a girl from 1987 Pennsylvania, leading to a unique friendship across time and space. The story explores themes of friendship, resilience, and overcoming challenges, appealing to readers aged 9-12. [Extracted from the article]

"The Trouble Up North" by Travis Mulhauser is a gripping family crime saga set in northern Michigan during the early 2000s. The Sawbrook family faces financial difficulties due to increased property taxes from a nearby resort expansion. The story follows the family's struggles, including patriarch Edward's illness, conflicts between family members, and unexpected complications arising from a daughter's decision to commit arson for money. Mulhauser's novel is praised for its atmospheric setting, suspenseful plot, and well-developed characters, making it a compelling read for fans of mysteries and thrillers. [Extracted from the article]

"Darkenbloom" by Eva Menasse, translated by Charlotte Collins, is a gripping novel set in an Austrian town before the fall of the Berlin Wall. The story follows Lowetz, who returns to his hometown and uncovers family secrets intertwined with the aftermath of WWII. Menasse skillfully explores themes of guilt, prejudice, and complicity in the Holocaust, creating a haunting and immersive narrative that delves into the town's dark past. The novel offers a unique perspective on history and the impact of war on individuals and communities. [Extracted from the article]

Samantha van Leer's debut novel, "Finding the Lost One (The Extraterrestrial Zoo #1)," follows 13-year-old Ava and her uncle Pete as they care for extraterrestrial beings in a zoo. When the creatures escape during a storm, Ava and a new acquaintance, Harley, embark on a journey to find them. The story explores themes of grief, family, and friendship, with imaginative creature descriptions and empathetic character portrayals. The protagonists are depicted as white, and the book is recommended for readers aged 10-14. [Extracted from the article]

The article "Dropping Beats" from Publishers Weekly reviews Nathanael Lessore's book about two 13-year-olds, Growls and Shanks, whose embarrassing viral video jeopardizes their dreams of winning a rap competition and impressing their crush. When Shanks disappears, Growls finds hope in a new friendship with a girl in the neighborhood. Lessore's debut novel offers a humorous and insightful exploration of teenage aspirations and identity, with a diverse cast of characters. The book is recommended for readers aged 12 and up. [Extracted from the article]

"Capitana" by Cassandra James follows Ximena Reale, a teenage girl with one eye, as she navigates her family's pirate legacy and strives to prove herself at a naval training academy. Ximena's chance to rise above her parents' reputation comes when a notorious pirate returns, testing her loyalty to the empire. The novel, set in an imaginary world inspired by 18th-century Latin America, explores themes of bravery, loyalty, and uncovering dark secrets. Despite some pacing issues, the book offers a swashbuckling adventure suitable for readers aged 14 and up. [Extracted from the article]

"Space for Everyone" by Seina Wedlick, illustrated by Camilla Sucre, is a heartwarming children's book that celebrates the idea of inclusivity and togetherness. The story follows a family whose table grows to accommodate neighbors, relatives, and friends, symbolizing the importance of community and connection. Through warm illustrations and gentle prose, the book conveys a message of gratitude and acceptance, emphasizing the value of having space for everyone. Recommended for ages 4-8, this book promotes diversity and unity in a culturally sensitive and inclusive manner. [Extracted from the article]

Jon Macy's graphic biography "Djuna: The Extra Ordinary Life of Djuna Barnes" delves into the life of novelist Djuna Barnes, highlighting her tumultuous upbringing under the influence of her manipulative grandmother. Despite facing abuse and familial challenges, Barnes emerged as a fiercely ambitious writer who mingled with artistic luminaries in New York and Paris. Macy's evocative black-and-white comics capture Barnes's spirit and tenacity, showcasing her relentless pursuit of self-determination amidst a backdrop of validation-seeking. [Extracted from the article]

"Growing Up Urkel: A Memoir" by Jaleel White is a book that explores the actor's experiences and reflections on his breakout role as Steve Urkel on the 1990s sitcom Family Matters. White discusses his early career in acting, his audition for the role of Urkel, and the impact it had on his life. He also addresses the challenges of being typecast and the criticism surrounding the portrayal of Black characters on television. While the book lacks personal insights, it offers an intriguing look into White's career and the lasting impact of his iconic character. [Extracted from the article]

"Before We Forget Kindness" is the fifth installment in Toshikazu Kawaguchi's light fantasy series, "Before the Coffee Gets Cold." Set in Tokyo's Café Funiculi Funicula, the café offers customers the ability to time travel if they sit in a specific seat and return before their coffee gets cold. The book follows different customers and their desire to have one last conversation with someone important to them. The stories explore themes of regret, grief, forgiveness, and empathy, providing a heart-wrenching yet comforting read. [Extracted from the article]

"The Magnificent Ruins" by Nayantara Roy is an overstuffed family drama that follows Lila De, a book editor who inherits her family home in Kolkata after her grandfather's death. Despite pressures from her new bosses and her volatile relatives, Lila returns to India from Brooklyn and begins making repairs to the house. She reconnects with her teenage boyfriend and engages in an affair, which becomes complicated when another person from her past arrives. The plot becomes cluttered with legal drama, construction issues, and the exploration of generational trauma. While the author's descriptions are immersive, the pace of the story drags. [Extracted from the article]

"Challenge for Two: A Dave and Katie Adventure" by Kit and Drew Coons follows a struggling married couple, Dave and Katie Parker, as they uncover decades-old crimes in the seemingly idyllic town of Washita, Minnesota. The novel explores themes of loss, nostalgia, and the struggle between doing what's right and sticking to what's safe. While the story falls short on tension, it vividly portrays the town's history and the complexities of the Parkers' marriage. Recommended for fans of Louise Penny's Chief Inspector Gamache series and Sheila Connolly's The Secret Staircase. [Extracted from the article]

"Rebellion 1776" by Laurie Halse Anderson is a well-crafted novel set in March 1776, during the Loyalists' evacuation of Boston. The story follows thirteen-year-old Elsbeth Culpepper, a Patriot supporter who becomes a servant for Patriot spy Mister Pike. The novel provides historical details of daily life during the founding of the United States, with a focus on themes of friendship, family, and loyalty. The book includes a map of Boston, a source list, and a bibliography, making it a valuable resource for readers aged 10-14. [Extracted from the article]

"See How They Fall" by Rachel Paris is a debut novel that combines police procedural and domestic suspense, focusing on Australian artist Skye who faces unexpected challenges after marrying into the powerful Turner family. The story unfolds as tensions rise during a family gathering at the Turner estate, leading to a mysterious death that police sergeant Mei O'Connor investigates. While the novel features broad villain portrayals, some readers may desire more nuanced character development and less stereotyping. Overall, the thriller may not fully engage all mystery enthusiasts due to its lackluster impact. [Extracted from the article]

"Murder Runs in the Family" by Tamara Berry is a mystery novel that follows 31-year-old Amber Winslow as she becomes a private detective at her grandmother's retirement community in Draycott, Arizona. When a wealthy resident is found dead, Amber must clear her grandmother's name and solve the case. The book is praised for its colorful characters, snappy dialogue, and engaging plot, making it a compelling cozy mystery read. [Extracted from the article]

"The Snares: A Novel" by Rav Grewal-Kök is a gripping political thriller and family drama that follows Neel Chima, a Punjabi Sikh immigrant's son, as he navigates moral dilemmas while working for a shadowy federal intelligence agency. Neel's descent into a nightmare of his own making, fueled by heavy drinking and morally objectionable assignments, raises questions about ambition, free will, and morality in the context of the war on terror. The novel offers a striking and uncompromising exploration of the human cost of the conflict. [Extracted from the article]

"Old Blue Is My Home" by Lita Judge is a children's picture book that tells the story of a family living in a van named Old Blue. The book explores themes of homelessness, belonging, and the importance of family support. Through watercolor and colored pencil illustrations, the book sensitively portrays the challenges faced by the child narrator, who longs for a "forever home." The story highlights the resilience of the family and the comfort that Old Blue provides, while also addressing issues of housing insecurity. [Extracted from the article]

"The Fourth Girl" by Wendy Corsi Staub is a gripping thriller that delves into the impact of shared secrets on a group of childhood friends from Mulberry Bay, N.Y. The disappearance of Caroline Winterfield on prom night in 2000 sets off a chain of events that brings Midge, Kelly, and Talia back to their hometown 25 years later. As they uncover mysterious threats and a potential murder, the women are forced to confront the secrets they have kept for decades. Staub expertly weaves together past and present timelines, building suspense until a surprising conclusion. [Extracted from the article]

"The Passion Gap: What Our Parents Didn't Teach Us About Purpose, Prosperity, and Lasting Happiness" by Philip F. Hsin is a motivating guide inspired by the author's desire to pass down wisdom to his children. Hsin emphasizes aligning values and beliefs with individual purpose to bridge the gap between happiness and success. Through personal anecdotes, he offers insights on finding purpose, happiness, and achieving financial independence while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The book provides actionable steps to help readers identify their core values and achieve both passion and financial success in balance. [Extracted from the article]

"Unlikely Neighbors" by Renee Daniel Flagler is a contemporary fiction novel that follows Holland Davenport as she navigates a major life change after inheriting a brownstone in New York City. Holland discovers shocking secrets about her family while sorting through her aunt's belongings and forms a forbidden romance with her aunt's neighbor, Noble Washington. The novel skillfully explores Holland's emotional journey and the complexities of her newfound relationships in a captivating narrative. [Extracted from the article]

In Beverley Kendall's novel "One in a Million," a mix-up at a fertility clinic leads to a high-powered white attorney and his wife discovering that their biracial infant is biologically related to a Black Grammy-winning pop star. The story explores the challenges and complexities that arise as the characters navigate unexpected parenthood and strained relationships. Despite attempts at romance, the evolution from enemies to lovers feels unconvincing, and the characters' mismatched personalities create tension throughout the narrative. [Extracted from the article]

The article from Publishers Weekly reviews Callie Kazumi's novel "Claire, Darling," which follows the story of Claire Arundale, a Londoner whose life takes a downward spiral after discovering her boyfriend's betrayal. As Claire delves into Noah's past, she becomes entangled in a murder investigation involving his girlfriend Lilah. Despite some engaging courtroom scenes, the narrative is criticized for clichés and predictable plot twists. The novel incorporates excerpts from Claire's diary but fails to provide deep insight into her character. [Extracted from the article]

"I Leave It Up to You" by Jinwoo Chong is a perceptive story of a gay Korean American man, Jack Jr., who wakes up from a coma and confronts unresolved family issues. After losing his job and apartment, Jack reluctantly moves back in with his parents in New Jersey, where he starts working at the family sushi restaurant. As he navigates his past and present relationships, Jack grapples with the tension between forging his own path and meeting his family's expectations. Chong expertly captures the complexities of family dynamics in this satisfying drama. [Extracted from the article]

"Anything" by Rebecca Stead, illustrated by Gracey Zhang, is a poignant picture book that follows a child grieving a move to a new apartment. Through moments of sensory perceptions, memories of the old apartment, and secret wishes, the child and their father navigate the challenges of adjusting to a new home. The story beautifully captures the parent-child relationship with patience, humor, and comfort, offering a touching exploration of longing and acceptance. Suitable for children aged 3-5, the book sensitively addresses themes of change and belonging. [Extracted from the article]

"Stone Angels" by Helena Rho is a compelling novel that follows Angelina Lee, a Pittsburgh woman exploring her Korean roots in South Korea. The story delves into Angelina's journey to uncover family secrets, including the abduction of her mother's older sister by the Japanese in the 1940s. Rho skillfully navigates complex emotions and family dynamics, making this a poignant and thought-provoking read for those interested in weighty family dramas. [Extracted from the article]

"Disposable: America's Contempt for the Underclass" by Sarah Jones, a senior writer at New York magazine, delves into the systemic issues exposed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Through personal accounts, Jones highlights the struggles faced by individuals with disabilities, frontline workers, prisoners, immigrants, and others who were disproportionately affected by the pandemic. She argues that America's response to the crisis revealed intentional neglect and systemic harm towards marginalized communities, painting a grim picture of the country's societal structures. The book offers a critical examination of the inequalities and injustices that were exacerbated during the pandemic, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by the underclass in America. [Extracted from the article]

Nana Malone's "Gold Coast Dilemma" is a romance novel that follows the story of Ghanaian heiress Ofosua Addo and New Yorker Cole Drake. After a chance meeting and a missed connection, they reunite two years later at Drake Publishing, where they navigate workplace discrimination and family pressures. The novel expertly explores themes of diversity, cultural identity, and romance, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre. [Extracted from the article]

"The Undoing of Violet Claybourne" by Emily Critchley is a gothic-tinged mystery novel that follows Gillian McCune as she uncovers a diary from 1938 that leads her back to Thornleigh Hall, the childhood home of her former boarding school roommate, Violet. The story delves into Gillian's friendship with Violet, her troubled family history, and a death at Thornleigh that forces her to participate in a cover-up. Critchley skillfully builds suspense and maintains a melancholic atmosphere throughout the narrative, culminating in a satisfying resolution for fans of suspenseful tales. [Extracted from the article]

"For the Blessings of Jupiter and Venus" by Varun Gauri is a novel that explores the complexities of arranged marriage and small-town American politics through the story of Meena Mehra and Avinash Sehrawat. The characters, including the memorable Rav Uncle and Peeku, navigate tradition and modernity in their relationships, highlighting the challenges of balancing cultural expectations with personal desires. Gauri's debut novel offers a funny and thought-provoking take on love and long-term relationships in a changing world, making it a compelling read for those interested in exploring themes of tradition, individualism, and family dynamics. [Extracted from the article]

"Into the Wild (Wolf Girl #1)" by Anh Do, illustrated by Jeremy Ley and Annie Ji, tells the story of Gwen, a girl who must survive alone in the wild after being separated from her family. The book explores themes of bravery, resilience, and loyalty as Gwen navigates her way through the woods with the help of stray dogs. The emotionally authentic prose and movement-filled artwork by Ley and Ji create a captivating tale of survival and determination for readers aged 8-12. [Extracted from the article]

"The Launch Date" by Annabelle Slator is a workplace romance novel that follows Grace and Eric, two coworkers competing for a promotion at a London dating app company. Grace struggles with low self-esteem and a manipulative boss, while Eric deals with paparazzi attention due to his prominent family. As they are forced to work together on a project, their relationship evolves from antagonistic to romantic. While Grace initially comes across as whiny, Eric helps her become more assertive, leading to a more entertaining story. Fans of authors like Sally Thorne and Christina Lauren are likely to enjoy this book. [Extracted from the article]

"Publishers Weekly" features a collection of statements from individuals involved in the creation of author Rebecca Kauffman's books. Jack Shoemaker praises Kauffman's writing style, emphasizing its warmth and intimacy. Kauffman reflects on her writing process, noting the challenges and breakthroughs she experienced. Nicole Caputo discusses the design elements of Kauffman's book covers, highlighting the thematic connections to the novels. Michelle Tessler, Kauffman's literary agent, commends the author's work and collaboration with Counterpoint, her publisher. [Extracted from the article]

"Both Sides of the Same Coin" by Michael Weiner is a generational saga that follows four families in 20th century America—the Roths, Doyles, Carbones, and Kleins. The novel explores the intertwining journeys of these families as they seek refuge and prosperity in New York City, highlighting the importance of philanthropy in their success. Weiner weaves a detailed history of 20th century America into the narrative, showcasing the evolution of New York City alongside the characters. The story emphasizes the value of altruism and the lasting impact of the bonds we create and the legacies we leave behind. [Extracted from the article]

"You Belong Here" by Sara Phoebe Miller, illustrated by Morgan Beem, follows Jewish teen Essie Rosen as she navigates her senior year on Long Island while dealing with her brother's substance dependency. Essie's plans to study acting at NYU are disrupted when her relationship with her Black boyfriend ends, and she is cast opposite Chinese American Christopher in the school play. The graphic novel explores themes of existential angst and future anxiety through Essie's evolving relationships in a racially diverse school community. The moody watercolor illustrations by Beem enhance the emotional depth of the story. [Extracted from the article]

"Extra Large" by Tyler Page is an autobiographical comic that explores themes of bullying and body insecurity. The story follows a soon-to-be seventh grader who struggles with his body image after winning an extra-large T-shirt at a racetrack. Through colorful illustrations and lighthearted storytelling, the graphic novel addresses issues of self-esteem, family dynamics, and societal pressures. Aimed at readers aged 8-12, "Extra Large" offers a thoughtful and engaging perspective on these important topics. [Extracted from the article]

"The Shots You Take" by Rachel Reid is a heartwarming queer romance novel that follows retired hockey star Adam Sheppard as he tries to mend his former teammate Riley Tuck's broken heart. Adam, who is now out as gay, hopes to rekindle their past relationship after years of separation. The story is filled with cozy scenes and moments of personal growth as Adam learns to embrace his true self and make amends for past mistakes. Fans of hopeful and romantic stories are sure to enjoy this novel. [Extracted from the article]

"A Killing Cold" by Kate Alice Marshall is a psychological thriller that follows an amnesiac named Theo who becomes suspicious of her fiancé's family. Theo, with significant memory gaps, is concerned about being perceived as a gold-digger by Connor's relatives. Mysterious text messages and eerie flashbacks add tension to the story as Theo tries to uncover the truth about her past. Fans of Riley Sager's work may find this novel intriguing. [Extracted from the article]

In "The Boy Who Learned to Live," D.N. Moore tells the story of Oliver Mc’Neil, a teen in 2085 who discovers a new way of life outside his sterile existence when he meets Autumn, a girl living off the land. As Oliver adjusts to this new lifestyle, he realizes the risks it poses to Autumn and the community. The novel explores themes of found family, self-sufficiency, and the dangers of government oversight in a dystopian setting. Readers interested in dystopian young adult fiction may find this book compelling, especially if they enjoy works by authors like London Shah and Michael Grant. [Extracted from the article]

"Dragon's Heart" by D.I. Nuri follows the story of Deniz Sayber, a boy who discovers his magical powers amidst family struggles and a battle between good and evil. Set in a mystical town called Seventh Stream, Deniz learns about his magical abilities as a Sventur and prepares for a final battle against dark forces. The book explores deep emotional themes within a fantasy framework, though readers may encounter pacing issues and stilted dialogue. Overall, "Dragon's Heart" offers a promising and inspiring fantasy tale for fans of the genre. [Extracted from the article]

"Passover on Everest" by Rachelle Burk, illustrated by Craig Orback, tells the story of young Nikki Bart and her mother climbing Mt. Everest as part of their goal to scale the highest peaks across continents. Despite missing their usual family seders, their Sherpa guide surprises them with a full Passover spread, highlighting the significance of the holiday in a unique setting. The illustrations by Orback beautifully capture the grandeur of the mountains and the human connections that define Passover, with characters portrayed with various skin tones. The book is recommended for ages 4-10 and includes an author's note and more information about Passover. [Extracted from the article]

Swati Hegde's novel "Can't Help Faking in Love" explores the fake relationship trope in a Bangalore setting, following aspiring photographer Harsha Godbole as she recruits barista Veer Kannan to pose as her boyfriend for her cousin's wedding. Veer, an aspiring actor facing financial challenges, agrees to the arrangement to fund his brother's education. The story unfolds as the two navigate their fake relationship and unexpectedly find love. The novel offers a blend of romance and cultural elements that will appeal to fans of the genre. [Extracted from the article]

In Elinor Lipman's novel "Every Tom, Dick & Harry," Emma Lewis takes over her family's estate sale business, renaming it Estate of Mind and causing a stir in her Massachusetts town. When she handles the contents of a bed-and-breakfast that was also a brothel, controversy arises. The story follows Emma as she navigates personal relationships, legal risks, and unexpected revelations, with snappy and witty dialogue throughout. Fans of Lipman's work and new readers will find this novel engaging and entertaining. [Extracted from the article]

"One Foggy Christmas Eve" is a children's picture book by Kerilynn Wilson. The story follows a determined child and their family as they brave the fog to deliver a homemade gift to their grandparents. The illustrations effectively convey the uncertainty and ominous atmosphere of the outing, but the child is eventually joined by majestic deer-like creatures who help brighten their way. Although the original gift is lost, the child ends up with something even more precious to share. The book's spare text allows the artwork to shine, and it offers a timeless holiday twist. Suitable for ages 4-8. [Extracted from the article]

In "Not the Killing Kind," Maria Kelson presents a compelling debut novel about a woman named Boots Marez who fights to prove her adopted son's innocence. Boots runs a school in a small town on California's Humboldt Bay that primarily serves undocumented families. When Jaral, her adopted son, becomes the prime suspect in his friend's murder, Boots launches her own investigation to clear his name. The novel is filled with unexpected twists and explores the complex relationship between Boots and Jaral. Kelson's skillful storytelling suggests a promising future in fiction. [Extracted from the article]

"Uprooted: A Memoir About What Happens When Your Family Moves Back" is a graphic novel memoir by Ruth Chan. Set in 1993, the story follows 13-year-old Ruth Chan, a Chinese Canadian, as her family moves from Toronto to Hong Kong due to her father's new job. The novel explores the challenges and difficulties Ruth faces as she adjusts to her new life in Hong Kong, including language barriers and cultural differences. Through expressive cartooning and nuanced character interactions, the memoir highlights the importance of perseverance and family support. The book is recommended for readers aged 8 to 12. [Extracted from the article]

"All Our Ordinary Stories: A Multigenerational Family Odyssey" by Teresa Wong is a graphic novel that explores the author's Chinese immigrant parents' history. The book delves into themes of language barriers, loss, and the family history of separation. Wong uses simple line drawings to convey complex emotions and takes readers on a resonant journey into the past. The novel also touches on the history of Chinese immigrants in Canada and how centuries of migration have shaped Chinese culture. [Extracted from the article]