Transcript:

JESSICA:

Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.

Today's two reading recommendations are "Kill All Wizards" by Jedediah Berry and "Ignore All Previous Instructions" by Ada Hoffmann.

First, we're going to hear from Emily, library associate at the Marysville Library, for a world where every spell has consequences. Go ahead, Emily.

EMILY:

"Kill All Wizards" by Jedediah Berry is a witty fantasy novella with surprising emotional depth that balances action and graceful prose.

In a world where magic is king, the barbarian Gotchimus has a serious score to settle with some serious wizards. He's willing to do whatever it takes to take them out, even attending the theater. But he's no reckless himbo gate-crashing cocktail hour — this hulking warrior is as sharp as his sword. Utilizing shrewd observation, ingenuity, and rage, he tackles a sightless sorcerer with countless eyes; an actual god, and far more dangerous actors pulling strings from the shadows. He also makes some friends along the way in Hecksley, a gentleman thief with a clockwork arm and Dora, an acerbic swordswoman who's more than she appears.

Between its outsider antihero and critiques of classism, this story has big sword and sorcery energy. The scenes of Gotchimus and Hecksley trading tales over drinks also feel like a definite nod to Fritz Leiber's characters, Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser. Berry has built up the beginnings of a fascinating world that I'm excited to explore in the rest of this planned series. Really, I'd say this book is for anyone seeking revenge or a fresh take on a classic genre from a wildly imaginative author.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Emily! It's always exciting to find a fantasy that brings something new to the genre.

Next, let's hear from Lois, librarian at the Snohomish Library for a story about living in the age of AI. Over to you, Lois.

LOIS:

Tackling themes of neurodiversity and artificial intelligence, "Ignore All Previous Instructions" by Ada Hoffmann is a poignant sci-fi epic about the power of love and storytelling.

Kelli has always loved telling stories. In adulthood, she works as a script supervisor for a generative-AI company that regulates all media. The job is well suited to her neurodivergence as she fine tunes AI prompts to create a popular television show. For Kelli, it's easiest to follow all given instructions.

Everything is going well until she gets a message from her ex, Rowan, who's in debt from an illegal gender-affirming surgery. After she agrees to help, Kelli realizes too late that Rowan has recruited her for a dangerous heist, upsetting her orderly little world.

The story is told in alternating timelines: Kelli in present day and flashbacks to her relationship with Rowan as children. Both narratives weave together forbidden love set in a dystopian society where corporations control everything.

The relationship between Kelli and Rowan carried this book for me. As their stories build toward crisis, the tenderness of reuniting with a former love held my interest, especially in a setting where queer desire is prohibited. Ultimately, Kelli must grapple with her versions of right and wrong, and the culmination is an intricate exploration of censorship and how we relate to each other.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Lois! This is a wonderful blend of a deeply personal love story with some really big ideas.

Our recommendations this week are: "Kill All Wizards" by Jedediah Berry and "Ignore All Previous Instructions" by Ada Hoffmann.

Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.

Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.

Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

Transcript:

JESSICA:

Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.

Today's two reading recommendations are focused on the amazing world of wildlife. We have "Remarkably Bright Creatures," the featured novel for Sno-Isle Reads Together, and a philosophical environmental title, "Wild Souls."

First, we're going to hear from Collection Development Librarian Lorraine, for a story of small town secrets from an unusual point of view. Take it away, Lorraine.

LORRAINE:

"Remarkably Bright Creatures," the debut novel by Shelby Van Pelt, is for people who like feel-good stories about dealing with loss, truth, family, and includes an unlikely friendship between a lonely woman and a giant Pacific octopus.

70-year-old Tova grieves the recent death of her husband, and the loss of her only son who drowned 30 years before. To find purpose in life, she takes the job of night cleaner at the Sowell Bay Aquarium in a small town on the Puget Sound. Over time, Tova befriends the octopus Marcellus who frequently escapes his tank at night.

Cam, a failed rock musician, comes to Sowell searching for his long-lost father and joins Tova on the night shift, disrupting her work routine. However, the two realize that Cam's mother, who disappeared when Cam was nine, and Tova's son might have known each other. What happened to them remains a mystery that needs to be solved.

The novel begins from the surprising viewpoint of the sentient octopus, and I had many thoughts about if I really wanted to continue reading. I persevered, and after a few chapters, I was drawn into the lives of the characters and couldn't put the book down.

Van Pelt's writing is whimsical, humorous, and at times heartbreaking. I hope that she publishes another book soon.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Lorraine! Any story with a clever octopus and that much heart is headed straight to the top of my reading list.

Next, let's hear from Marie, information assistant at the Oak Harbor Library, for a book that might make you rethink your relationship with nature. Take it away, Marie.

MARIE:

What does it mean to be wild, and what role should humans play in conserving this state? Award-winning journalist Emma Marris explores this and more in "Wild Souls."

Human living spaces encroach on the habitats of wild animals. Introduced species wreak havoc on entire ecosystems. Earth's changing climate is impacting all life. Because we care, we intervene, but is that always the correct response to these challenges?

In one example, Marris asks readers to consider the spotted owl. Barred and spotted owls are neighbors and compete for the same resources in a habitat devastated by logging. As part of an effort to save the spotted owl from extinction, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regularly kills barred owls and spotted/barred owl hybrids. As a result, the spotted owl population has increased.

But … Marris wonders: What if spotted/barred owl hybrids are better suited to survive on a warming planet? Are we interrupting a necessary evolutionary process? And why do we get to decide which bird is more worthy of life?

Packed with scientific evidence viewed through the lens of compassion, "Wild Souls" by Emma Marris explores the delicate question of humans as caretakers of living things on Earth.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Marie! This sounds like a compelling exploration of animal welfare and environmental ethics.

Our recommendations this week are: "Remarkably Bright Creatures" by Shelby Van Pelt and "Wild Souls" by Emma Marris.

Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.

Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.

Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

Transcript:

JESSICA:

Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.

Today's two reading recommendations are "Hidden Pictures" by Jason Rekulak and "Bingo Hall Detectives" by Jonathan Whitelaw.

First, we're going to hear from Rhianna, library associate at the Langley Library, for a mystery of a picture-perfect family with dark secrets. Over to you, Rhianna.

RHIANNA:

Jason Rekulak takes a stab at the child-drawing-creepy-things theme and completely turns it on its head in "Hidden Pictures."

We've all seen this movie before: a nanny takes a job for a family with very specific requirements for their child. As Mallory, fresh out of rehab and desperate for a meaningful career path, bonds with Teddy, her charge, she notices how uniquely talented he is at drawing. Especially his ability to draw things that have yet to happen. Never mind the fact that on several occasions, Mallory has walked in to find Teddy deep in conversation with his imaginary friend. Imaginary. So why could Mallory swear she heard two voices? Not to mention the odd things happening in her studio apartment on the family's property. Oh, and to make matters even more exciting, the usually chipper and positive Teddy's drawings seemed to have taken a rather sinister turn when his latest sketch appears to depict a grisly crime.

While the audiobook is deliciously addictive, the print version includes copies of Teddy's sketches for a truly immersive and illustrative spooky experience. From a deep-dive to the longstanding effects of grief to the complexity of family dynamics, this genre-bending thriller defies expectations and tired tropes, making it a page-turner for the ages.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Rhianna! I love a thriller that keeps you guessing right to the end.

Next, let's hear about murder, mischief, and a couple of unlikely sleuths from Paige, librarian at the Edmonds Library. Take it away, Paige.

PAIGE:

If you love the "Thursday Murder Club" and are looking for a similar murder mystery with as many twists and turns as a corkscrew, look no further than the "Bingo Hall Detectives" by Jonathan Whitelaw.

This story follows the recently unemployed journalist Jason Brazel and his mother-in-law, Amita Khatri, the Sherriff of Penrith. As family does, Jason takes his mother-in-law to her bingo nights on Wednesdays and on one night, they pull up to the news that a dear friend in the bingo hall has passed away. Amidst the murmurings, not everyone believes it was not foul play. As Amita begins to pursue the truth behind her friend's death, Jason is dragged along as a bodyguard, getaway driver, and the "legitimate" leader of their unofficial investigation.

From being arrested in his pajamas, to being held at gunpoint by a crazed farmer, to running out of a job interview to save his mother-in-law from breaking into a building with a former bouncer, Jason Brazel surely is kept on his toes. From biscuits and tea at bingo, to sleuthing at abandoned buildings, there is never a quiet moment in this investigation.

This is especially for those who love English murder mysteries and love the bickering of family. At this moment, there are four books in the series so if you love the "Bingo Hall Detectives," check out the rest of the series!

JESSICA:

Thanks, Paige! It's hard to resist a cozy mystery that's equal parts clever and charming, and I especially love an English cozy mystery.

Our recommendations this week are: "Hidden Pictures" by Jason Rekulak and "Bingo Hall Detectives" by Jonathan Whitelaw.

Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.

Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.

Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

Transcript:

JESSICA:

Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.

Today's two reading recommendations will introduce you to handpicked favorites that have captured the hearts and minds of our staff. We'll give you the inside scoop on titles you may not have heard about.

First, we're going to hear from Jayanne, librarian at the Freeland Library, for a humorous tale of an unexpected supervillain. Go ahead, Jayanne.

JAYANNE:

"Starter Villain" by John Scalzi is a fast and funny dive into a bond-like world complete with cat-stroking supervillains and a remote island lair. Charlie is adrift. He has lost his marriage, his job, his dad, and is about to lose his house. So, he is willing to hold a funeral service for his estranged wealthy uncle in return for some promised assistance.

Beginning with the hit men (yes there were several) who show up at the service, Charlie is thrown into a completely new world as he discovers that he has inherited the entirety of his Uncle Jake's massive criminal enterprise, especially his enemies. Before he has even processed this revelation, he is whisked off to a convocation where all the other syndicate leaders try to influence and intimidate him in turn.

Charlie is struggling with the concept of being evil, but he doesn't really have the time. He is now responsible for super-weapons, high-tech labs, minions, and a lot of corporate headaches (including labor disputes). At turns absurd and snarky, this action-packed story has you cheering on Charlie as he navigates his perilous orientation as a super villain. I laughed a lot reading this story but honestly Scalzi won me over with the cats … the genetically modified hyper-intelligent talking spy cats.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Jayanne! I'm definitely on board for talking spy cats!

Next, let's hear about a humorous Native American love story from Lois, librarian at the Snohomish Library. Go ahead, Lois

LOIS:

"The Truth According to Ember" by Danica Nava is a witty and heartfelt romantic comedy about Ember Lee Cardinal, a Chickasaw woman living in Oklahoma City.

Ember has had her resumé rejected 37 times! So, on her next application, she decides to fudge a few details, landing her the job. Ember thrives in her new accounting position. Better yet, she catches the eye of her attractive Native colleague, Danuwoa. Their chemistry is undeniable, and sparks fly as they begin a workplace romance. Sure, there's a no-dating policy at their company. But what's one more lie?

Everything is going great for Ember until she and Danuwoa get caught together on a work trip. The colleague who discovers their relationship manipulates Ember with blackmail, leading her deeper into a series of lies. Ember must decide whether to double down or come clean, possibly losing everything, including Danuwoa.

This debut novel is the first traditionally published romance novel by a Native author with Native protagonists. This book is funny but successfully integrates tough topics like racism and complex family dynamics. I also loved the clever banter between the romantic leads and found myself rooting for Ember throughout the story.

For a humorous and swoony read you won't want to put down, check out "The Truth According to Ember."

JESSICA:

Thanks, Lois! It's great to hear how humor and romance can be woven into relevant complex topics.

Our recommendations this week are: "Starter Villain" by John Scalzi and "The Truth According to Ember" by Danica Nava.

Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.

Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.

Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

Transcript:

JESSICA:

Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.

Today's two reading recommendations are "Cellar Rat" by Hannah Selinger and "Kin" by Tayari Jones.

First, we're going to hear from Nichole, library associate at the Stanwood Library, for a memoir that may change your perspective on your next fancy dinner out. Take it away, Nichole.

NICHOLE:

What happens when a career you love doesn't love you back? Hannah Selinger's tell-all is raw and vulnerable and made me feel nostalgic for my first experiences in the workforce. More than that, it addresses a lot of unsettling facts about what it's like to work in a restaurant.

The book takes place during the celebrated era of "bad boy" chefs such as Gordon Ramsey, David Chang, Johnny Iuzzini and more. Their bad behavior was ignored and even celebrated because of their culinary fame.

"Cellar Rat" is a first-hand account of how toxic the restaurant industry can be. It often minimizes harassment and normalizes unacceptable behavior. However, there's also something compelling and addictive about these settings that keeps staff members like Selinger from moving on.

It's told in a candid tone, conversational in the sense that you get the appeal drawing her into these toxic work environments, but still serious enough that you're rooting for her to find a way out throughout the entire book. It really feels like you're sitting across from her in a cozy coffee shop as she relays every jaw dropping detail of her experience.

"Cellar Rat" is an absolute must-read for anyone who has experienced the grit and glamour of working in restaurants.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Nichole! Fun fact: After each chapter, you will find an original recipe tied to the events or themes of that section.

Next, let's hear from Marie, information assistant at the Oak Harbor Library, for a powerful novel about finding family. Go ahead, Marie.

MARIE:

Two motherless Black women raised in 1950s Louisiana forge a fierce bond in "Kin" by Tayari Jones.

In this funny and moving novel, Annie and Vernice have been what they call "cradle friends" for as long as they can remember.

Vernice's mother was killed by her father, who then killed himself. Annie was abandoned by her "trifling" mother, and according to Annie's grandmother, "trifling" is the worst thing a woman can be.

Vernice's aunt raised her in hopes of setting her on a path to a better life. Annie's grandmother just wanted to be done with the responsibility of raising another child.

The women venture out into the world on vastly different trajectories. Vernice is off to college with matched luggage and new clothes. Annie is on a relentless quest to find the mother who abandoned her.

Vernice and Annie tell their stories in alternating chapters as their futures unfurl before them.

If you like complex characters, lyrical writing, and historical fiction that grabs you by the heart, "Kin" by Tayari Jones is not to be missed.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Marie! I love stories that prove family isn't just about genetics.

Our recommendations this week are: "Cellar Rat" by Hannah Selinger and "Kin" by Tayari Jones.

Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.

Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.

Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

Transcript:

JESSICA:

Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.

Today's two reading recommendations will introduce you to handpicked favorites that have captured the hearts and minds of our staff. We'll give you the inside scoop on titles you may not have heard about.

First, we're going to hear from Emily, library associate at the Marysville Library, for a story of transformation. Go ahead, Emily.

EMILY:

"Tear" is a disorienting gothic horror novel that begs for discussion. Drawing inspiration from Mary Shelley, Shirley Jackson, and "The Yellow Wallpaper," author Erica McKeen tells the unsettling tale of a young woman on the verge of becoming a ghost.

We first encounter Frances in the basement of a house she shares with three other college seniors. It's not yet clear how long she's been alone in this basement or why, but the isolation and claustrophobic darkness are undoubtedly taking a toll. As she drifts through the narrow halls of her own oubliette, figures appear to her in the shadows, scratching comes from the walls, and she loses both her sense of and place in time.

Both Frances and her story unravel through scattered memories, each one centering on a relationship. From her flawed family, emotionally abusive childhood friends, and oddly absent housemates, the reader's understanding of Frances grows gradually but relentlessly, like mold.

While a slow burn isn't always my thing, McKeen's use of precise sensory details —textures, smells, and even air pressure — kept me engrossed and grounded as the overall story became increasingly hallucinatory. And the building pressure pays off with an explosive and wildly different third act. I'm not going to give it away, but let's say Frances's ultimate transformation takes a far more visceral and dangerous form than a ghost.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Emily! This book sounds eerily wonderful.

Next, let's hear about school friends who share secrets, hopes, and heartbreak, from Jennifer, librarian at the Mill Creek Library. Take it away, Jennifer.

JENNIFER:

Today my book review goes out to all the listeners who want a comfort read: a book that's cozy, with kindhearted characters, not too much drama, and a happy ending.

"Yours From the Tower" by Sally Nicholls is set in 1896 in England. It's the tale of three young women who were best friends in boarding school. They've now graduated and gone their separate ways, but they still keep in touch in letters, and these letters form the narrative of the book.

There's altruistic Polly, who's got a job at a Liverpool orphanage, where she's falling in love with all the children – and her boss. There's Sophia, who's trying to land a rich husband during a dazzling London Season, and pretending to have more fun than she actually is. And there's passionate, spontaneous Tirza, who's essentially being kept prisoner by her mean grandmother, and nobody knows why.

These girls write to each other, and in their letters they share gossip and jokes and hopes and frustrations and dreams.

Although romance plays a part, the very center of "Yours From the Tower" is the warm friendship between our three main characters. It's a lovely gentle read, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Jennifer! This book sounds like a heartfelt journey through friendship and self-discovery.

Our recommendations this week are: "Tear" by Erica McKeen and "Yours From the Tower" by Sally Nicholls.

Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.

Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.

Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

Transcript:

JESSICA:

Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.

Today's two reading recommendations are "The Book Club for Troublesome Women" by Marie Bostwick and "Ursula K. Le Guin's Book of Cats."

First, we're going to hear from Robyn, librarian at the Stanwood Library, for a story of rule-breaking women. Over to you, Robyn.

ROBYN:

In a world where expectations are whispered … and rules are never questioned … one book club is about to turn the page.

Meet "The Book Club for Troublesome Women" by Marie Bostwick.

They came together for stories … but found something far more dangerous. Secrets. Power. And the courage to finally speak.

They were told to behave. To stay quiet. To drink tea. To fit in. But these women? They were never meant to follow the script.

These aren't your average ladies. They're complicated. Courageous. Maybe even a little dangerous to the status quo. And as the stakes rise, so does the question: what happens when women stop playing by the rules?

As friendships ignite and truths come spilling out, lines will be crossed … lives will be changed … and nothing will ever be the same. Because when women stop playing nice … the real story begins.

Packed with heart, and just the right amount of scandal, this may be the most rebellious read of the season. Join the club everyone's talking about. "The Book Club for Troublesome Women" – where the book club isn't the story … it's just the beginning.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Robyn! I'm on board for any historical fiction that celebrates strong women and deep connections.

Next, let's hear about a collection of tales dedicated entirely to our feline companions, from Jen, librarian at the Lake Stevens Library. Take it away, Jen.

JEN:

You may have read the prolific works of Ursula K. Le Guin, or heard her name in literary circles, BUT, did you know, in addition to revelatory, cerebral, often haunting ruminations on the human condition, she also drew comics about cats? Le Guin was inspired by her feline friends and their escapades over the years, exalting them in poetry and speculating on their conspiratorial communications.

Basically a zine with book binding, "Book of Cats" is an utter delight! An eclectic collection, full of Le Guin's doodles and musings on the temperament and behaviors of the cat companions she was caretaker to, this quick read is guaranteed to boost your mood. Whether you are a cat fanatic or not particularly fond of felines, have never heard of Le Guin, or know her to be a seminal author, anyone can appreciate these kitties' antics.

This compilation is also a vital reminder that you do not need to produce existential, profound works of art to be an artist, just create! Imperfectly and simply for the sake of expressing what is in your head and heart. The companionship of furry friends can aid in cultivating those creative juices, for, as Le Guin asserts, "the catless manuscript is not worth writing." So snuggle up to your pet pals, adopt, or borrow a friends', and bask in "Ursula K. Le Guin's Book of Cats."

JESSICA:

Thanks, Jen! It's comforting to know that one of the greatest minds in sci-fi and fantasy is a total cat person at heart, just like me.

Our recommendations this week are: "The Book Club for Troublesome Women" by Marie Bostwick and "Ursula K. Le Guin's Book of Cats."

Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.

Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.

Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

[END]

Transcript:

JESSICA:

Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.

Today's two reading recommendations will introduce you to handpicked favorites that have captured the hearts and minds of our staff. We'll give you the inside scoop on titles you may not have heard about.

First, we're going to hear from Danielle, library associate at the Mariner Library, for a true story of a mysterious singer who was ahead of her time. Take it away, Danielle.

DANIELLE:

You've never heard the music of Connie Converse. How do I know this? Because no one has.

Obscure during her lifetime, Connie Converse is slowly being discovered by a modern audience, thanks to her biographer Howard Fishman. The life of this enigmatic musician is chronicled in Fishman's well-researched book "To Anyone Who Ever Asks: The Life, Music, and Mystery of Connie Converse."

Converse came close to achieving fame in the 1950s. As a female singer-songwriter based in Greenwich Village, she was ahead of her time — so much so, that audiences didn't quite know what to make of her. As Fishman's book reveals, those that did hear her music deemed her "the female Bob Dylan." But as Fishman reports, there just wasn't room in the scene for her starkly beautiful songs.

The book borrows its title from a note written by Converse in 1974. The heading reads, "To anyone who ever asks (if I'm long unheard from.)" Indeed, Converse would cease communication from the mid-70s on. After writing goodbye notes to her loved ones, she disappeared in her car. Neither her nor her vehicle were ever found.

Fishman has painstakingly researched and interviewed his way to a thorough documentation of the mysteries of Converse's past. Some are now solvable; others will remain unknown. No matter what, Fishman's biography will ensure that her talent is celebrated well into the future.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Danielle! This book sounds like a mysterious journey through art, identity, and unanswered questions that still linger.

Next, let's hear about a story of romance and rivalry, from Jennifer, librarian at the Mill Creek Library. Over to you, Jennifer.

JENNIFER:

I don't know about you, but these long days have me thinking about the pleasures of summer: hot weather, cold beverages, and books that are light and fun. "Check & Mate" by Ali Hazelwood is a humorous rom-com that hit the spot like an ice-cold glass of lemonade.

Mallory Greenleaf's meet-cute with Nolan Sawyer is unusual, to say the least. She's an auto mechanic; he's the world's number-one ranked Chess Grandmaster, nicknamed "The Kingkiller." They play at a charity tournament, and Mallory stuns the world of chess by winning.

From there we're off to the races, with Mallory accepting a chess fellowship and winning tournaments. She doesn't love the publicity, but she needs the cash prizes. And of course, she can't help but be intrigued by her handsome new rival, Nolan Sawyer.

This is a funny and fast-paced read. Our heroine is a burned-out mess who has a bit of growing up to do over the course of the book, and in Nolan she meets the perfect book boyfriend: unreasonably attractive and unfailingly devoted. I think the chess-world setting is what makes this book stand out from other romance novels: it's a hoot.

If you're looking for a quick, cute novel with low angst and lots of humor, look no further than "Check & Mate." It's a perfect treat for a summer's day.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Jennifer! You don't have to be a fan of chess to enjoy this book.

Our recommendations this week are: "To Anyone Who Ever Asks: The Life, Music, and Mystery of Connie Converse" by Howard Fishman and "Check & Mate" by Ali Hazelwood.

Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.

Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.

Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

[END]

Transcript:

JESSICA:

Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.

Today's two reading recommendations are "After Hours at Dooryard Books" by Cat Sebastian and "Apparently, Sir Cameron Needs to Die" by Greer Stothers.

First, we're going to hear from collection development librarian Bridget, for historical fiction that takes us back to 1960s New York. Go ahead, Bridget.

BRIDGET:

"After Hours at Dooryard Books" by Cat Sebastian is a beautiful story about grief, love, and the family you choose. It's New York in 1968 and Patrick is the manager of a secondhand bookstore who finds himself looking after Nathaniel, a mysterious drifter who needs a safe place to hide out.

When tragedy strikes and his grieving best friend and her newborn suddenly move in as well, Patrick's life starts to change in ways he never expected. As Patrick's community grows, so too does Nathaniel's, who fears that the life he left behind could take this new one away.

From the Civil Rights Movement to the Vietnam War, 1968 was a profound year in American history and "After Hours" portrays the balance of heartbreak and hope that gripped the United States brilliantly. And it might be set a little later on than Cat Sebastian's other books that take place in New York City, but it still captures the vibrancy of the city in the same wonderful way that I've come to expect and adore. Community, bravery, love, literature, and folk music, "After Hours at Dooryard Books" has it all.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Bridget! I always enjoy a good story set in a bookstore or library.

Next, let's hear about a funny story of a sorcerer and a cowardly knight, from Hattie, library associate for Library on Wheels. Over to you, Hattie.

HATTIE:

So you think you've read it all and can't possibly be surprised, well might I suggest "Apparently, Sir Cameron Needs to Die" by Greer Stothers, in which many dangerous and homosexual things happen.

All his life, Sir Cameron has run from danger. He is quite frankly too handsome to die a pointless death. But then the Church hands down a prophecy to his fellow knights: the only way to defeat the mad sorcerer Merulo is to kill Sir Cameron. Cameron throws himself on the mercy of the one person who now actually wants him alive: the mad sorcerer himself.

Merulo is not thrilled by his new himbo houseguest, but transmogrifying Cameron into a vulture is at least entertaining. Cameron is quite invested in not dying, but as the two spend more time together, it turns out he is also quite invested in Merulo. And sometimes, supporting the sorcerer you care about means taking an interest in their hobbies. Even if that hobby is trying to kill God.

If you're yearning for a romantasy featuring the saddest wet cat of a love interest, a swoon worthy talking dragon, a despicable elf, and some truly unguessable plot twists, strap in for "Apparently, Sir Cameron Needs to Die." It is an absolutely wild roller coaster, and I can't wait to ride it again.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Hattie! This sounds like a humorous, irreverent adventure.

Our recommendations this week are: "After Hours at Dooryard Books" by Cat Sebastian and "Apparently, Sir Cameron Needs to Die" by Greer Stothers.

Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.

Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.

Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

[END]

Transcript:

JESSICA:

Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.

Today's two reading recommendations will introduce you to handpicked favorites that have captured the hearts and minds of our staff. We'll give you the inside scoop on titles you may not have heard about.

First, we're going to hear from Lois, librarian at the Snohomish Library, for a story where darkness and danger intertwine. Go ahead, Lois.

LOIS:

"The Woods All Black" by Lee Mandelo combines historical folk horror and transgender romance in an atmospheric story about the pursuit of bodily autonomy.

Set in 1920s Appalachia, "The Woods All Black" follows Leslie, a transgender Frontier nurse and war veteran. He is assigned to the remote township of Spar Creek, Kentucky, where he expects to vaccinate the locals and birth babies. But when he arrives, he encounters a hostile town under the control of a fundamentalist pastor — and they want nothing to do with him.

Leslie notices a kindred spirit named Stevie, who seems to be the focus of the community's ire. Despite the outright aggression from the townsfolk, Leslie decides to stay and help Stevie. But the longer he stays in Spar Creek, he realizes that there is more than the dangers of prejudice and hatred — there is also a monstrous danger haunting the woods.

I loved this dark and unsettling read. Despite its short length, the author packs in themes of reproductive justice, transgender identity, and queer resilience. This book isn't for the faint of heart, but if you like historical horror told through a queer lens, and can stomach the intensity, try "The Woods All Black" for a unique tale of revenge and belonging.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Lois! This book is a captivating blend of genres, not just historical horror, but throw in romance, queer themes, and fantasy too.

Next, let's explore the great outdoors, with Paige, librarian at the Edmonds Library. Take it away, Paige.

PAIGE:

The summer in Washington is perfect for exploring. Take a page out of Nick Offerman's book and explore the great outdoors inspired by "Where the Deer and Antelope Play," with the subtitle, "The Pastoral Observations of One Ignorant American Who Loves to Walk Outside."

For those who are fans of "Parks and Rec," you'll remember the gruff Ron Swanson and his love of the outdoors. The actor and author, Nick Offerman, is not too far off this character, but maybe with a dash more whimsy.

In this observation of the outdoors, the reader is brought into Nick's stream of consciousness and observations of three parts of the world just before and during the pandemic. Nick's observations are inspired by pieces of poetry and philosophy on the US and land stewardship, and his own background. This frames his tales of ineffectively helping to restore a wall in the UK, watching his friend make a heroic save of eyeglasses during a rafting expedition, and venturing across the US in "The Nutmeg" with Megan Mullaly. Through all this, the reader is left with observations on how we all can be a little kinder to our world. A bonus treat to those who listen to the audiobook, it is read by Nick Offerman himself.

For those of us who would love to be out in nature more than we are, please do read "Where the Deer and Antelope Play."

JESSICA:

Thanks, Paige! This is an inspiration to think about our own backyard and beyond.

Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.

Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.

Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.

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