The Wicked King by Holly Black
Holly Black spins the most enchanting web in her sequel to Cruel Prince. The book quickly enters a fast pace with a story line that is jam packed with deception, mental maneuvering to the highest degree, and warring desires. Black continues to masterfully build this world of faeries, lies, and wrestling power at all costs. I couldn’t set the book down until I had turned the final page and then I was cursing the fact that I had over a years wait until the next book. If you think you know how the book will end – wait until the last ten pages, Black out maneuvers all your expectations and leaves you speechless. A perfect series for lovers of Cassandra Clare, Game of Thrones, and Carrie Jones. Come meet Holly Black in person when she comes to BookPeople Sunday January 13th @2PM! Check out our website for more details!
—Savannah
If Beale Street Could Talk by James Baldwin
If Beale Street Could Talk, is the kind of story that leaves you SHAKING with all kinds of deep emotions until the very last word has been read. This was my first time I blessed myself with the beautiful and heartbreaking wisdom of James Baldwin. The words carried a rhythm infused with the pain and constant hustle of being an African American in the 60s. Baldwin, so mercilessly wraps his readers in a swarm of desperation for a world where Fonny can be free and America not so corrupt. Beyond the relevance, If Beale Street Could Talk carries a history that need not be forgotten.
—Raven
Pride by Ibi Zoboi
I’m currently reading Pride, by Ibi Zoboi, which is a contemporary adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Even though I have a long way to go, I’m loving how Zoboi lusciously describes Zuni’s world and family. The language is musical and loving, paying homage to both Austen’s classic tale and Zuni’s Haitian-Dominican roots. This is a YA interpretation of a classic for those of us who have been left out of the canon.
-—Fiona