There’s something you should know: I have absolutely no chill when it comes to books I love. This is why I never tried to be a reviewer—because I enjoy nothing more than to get completely lost in a book. So I’m going to spend the Deb release weeks less reviewing my colleagues’ fabulous works than losing my chill over them, because—wow. These are seriously good books. So you can guess…
It’s finally time! Kathleen West is the first of this year’s Debs to step out onto the ballroom floor! Minor Dramas & Other Catastrophes hits shelves Tuesday, February 4th. The book is a wry and cleverly observed debut novel about the privileged bubble that is Liston Heights High—the micro-managing parents, the overworked teachers, and the students caught in the middle—and the fallout for each of them when the bubble finally…
I’m thrilled that Stephanie Jimenez’s debut, They Could Have Named Her Anything, is out in the world this week! I had a chance to snag an advance copy and I was not disappointed — this novel has it all: a young but strong protagonist who tackles racism, loyalty, classism; she slingshots between poverty and privilege and learns the hard way of the bittersweet nature of love. Beautifully written and well-realized….
FROM UNSEEN FIRE is a big, luscious, complex book, the kind that makes you want to wall yourself off from the world in your most comfortable pajamas with a cup of something warm and sweet to drink. Some books you skim through, racing to reach the denouement; others, like this novel, are immersion reads, so full-fledged and epic you are a bit startled to find yourself in your own world…
Congratulations to my new friend and talented author Aya de Leon on her debut novel, UPTOWN THIEF. I will do a gush-fest below– and mean every word– but it’s a bit doomed to read like a paid advertisement, so before I do I’d like you to read this article from THE WASHINGTON POST. They stole the point I planned to make today. Aya’s genius with UPTOWN THIEF is in creating entertainment with accessible social…
Heather Young is my twin sister in the world of Debut Novelists. Our books came out the same day–Tuesday, July 26, 2016, and both are novels of suspense. On the surface, one might think that was all we had in common. I’m writing a larger-than-life heist story of sexy urban fiction, while her book, THE LOST GIRLS, is a subtle, beautifully crafted thriller. But despite our differences, I fell in…
I cracked opened Heather’s debut after having read her posts for six months, so I knew the writing would be strong and thought provoking. Still, I was apprehensive. Why? Because I tend to internalize what I’m reading– storylines invade my dreams and daily thoughts– so I avoid books with violence, especially when children are involved. But I am a dutiful Debutante, so I put on my big girl pants and jumped in….
Happy Publication Week to Jennifer S. Brown! MODERN GIRLS left me a little irked at Jenny because I had to stay up until one in the morning to learn Dottie’s fate, leaving me rather worthless the next day. Its compelling storyline made it my May book club choice, and should motivate you to pick up a copy. To celebrate this exciting week, Jenny asked us to share the expectations set in…
Two weeks now, my Deb Ball post has been late. And I blame one thing: Overwhelmed Author Syndrome. Last week, TINY PRETTY THINGS officially hit bookshelves. It was also the week of Teen Author Carnival, Dhonielle’s birthday, BEA, and a big #WeNeedDiverseBooks book signing at the fabulous La Casa Azul. Plus, Kavya’s school picnic, and Navdeep and I celebrated our tenth Vegas wedding anniversary (by going to see Wicked!). It was…
Many months ago, I finally had the opportunity — after reading this blog for nearly six years — to apply to be a Deb myself. I was excited beyond belief. I love this community — the commiseration and the camaraderie, the fun and the friendships. And it’s been everything I imagined it to be. I’ve made friends for life hear, and it’s been a treasure to share this journey with Amy,…
