[Article by: Morgan Simon]
At Friends of the Library, we have one mission: to spread the word to the Wells Branch community about our local library and it’s fantastic programming and resources! One of the best ways we know how to do this is to simply share what wonderful books we’re reading (and encourage you to head to the library to check them out!).
Enter: What Should I Read Next? This ongoing feature will share reading recommendations from librarians, Friends of the Library board members, and the Wells Branch community. You can find more of this series and other information about the library on our blog: http://wbfriends.org
I recently finished The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell and haven’t been able to stop thinking about it! Set in Florence, Italy in the 1550s, this novel follows the duchess Lucrezia de’ Medici from birth through adolescence. Filled with plot twists, historical details, and emotion this is the perfect read for anyone who loves historical fiction, Italian history, or simply a strong, fearless female lead character.
Morgan Simon, Friends of the Library Board Vice President
I recommend Kingdom of the Wicked series by Kerri Maniscalco for romance and fantasy lovers, with a lot of mythology. In 19th century Italy, Emilia is a witch living in Sicily and working at her family’s restaurant. When her twin sister is brutally murdered, Emilia tries to summon a demon to help her get revenge. Instead, she ends up accidentally summoning the Prince of Wrath. These longtime mortal enemies team up to solve the murder. Very satisfying enemies to lovers arc.
Kaitlyn, Youth Services Assistant Manager
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles, tells the story of a Russian Count in the 1920’s who is ordered to spend the rest of his life inside the world renowned Metropol Hotel in Moscow instead of being shot! He manages to live a life of purpose while all the while being charming and a true gentleman to all. There are also a few surprising twists that keep things interesting. I read the book, and liked it so much, I also listened to it, which I would recommend, because his charm is even more evident. Those of you who have already read A Gentleman in Moscow, might want to give it another read, because it is soon to be a Showtime series starring Ewan McGregor as the Count.
Joan Mead, Friends of the Library Board Member
I recommend A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik. Outside the Scholomance is even more dangerous for the young wizards. El is trapped inside the school with her classmates where only some of the ravenous monsters can get at them, and only some of the other students are trying to drain each other for power. It’s nice and horrible in the skyless void. All El has to do is not die and not destroy the world.
Julia, Library Assistant
For the Wine, Women and Words Book Club*, I recently read The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E.Schwab. A young woman in medieval times inadvertently calls an old god of the night instead of the day to save her from an unwanted marriage. As often happens, the wish granted is really a curse – to never be remembered after other people look away, and to live forever, until she is willing to give her soul to the god. It alternates between 2014 and the preceding centuries, and is a very interesting read.
Nancy Loomis, Friends of the Library Board Secretary
*Wine, Women and Words Book Club is a book club offered through the Wells Branch Community Library, find out more details at https://www.wblibrary.org/