Starred Reviews for Lili Taylor, Isabel Cañas, Lisa Ridzén, Caleb Gayle, and more!

By Kate McManus | July 7 2025 | Starred Reviews

With starred reviews from publications including Booklist, Library Journal, and AudioFile — your patrons will want to read these much-anticipated books that reviewers are raving about.

Fiction

A Novel

“Ultimately a story of mothers and the powerful magic they possess, this character-driven fantasy adventure novel is perfect for fans of H. G. Parry’s Shadow Histories duology and anyone who loves some magic with their historical fiction.” —Booklist, starred review


“Cañas’ latest gothic thriller (after Vampires of El Norte, 2023) combines an exploration of history, greed, toxic silver mining techniques, forbidden knowledge, and the dichotomies of wealth, family, class, faith, and good versus evil into a compelling, horrifying tale of possession that will only expand her growing audience.” —Booklist, starred review


A Novel

“An old-fashioned novel in the best sense: it’s expansive, generously paced, and full of sympathetic, well-rounded characters experiencing the joys and sorrows of everyday life.” —Library Journal, starred review


A Novel

“A memorable and satisfying romance, full of sexy and sensitive moments.” —Library Journal, starred review


“This delightful novella is an immersive fairy tale highlighted by Novik’s (The Golden Enclaves) vivid prose, with a sharp woman protagonist. Fans of Amal El-Mohtar’s The River Has Roots looking for their next read will find this book enjoyable.” —Library Journal, starred review


A Novel

“A charming must-have addition to any historical romance collection.” —Library Journal, starred review


A Novel

“Readers will laugh and cry. In Bo, Ridzén has created a character who can evoke empathy in anyone.” —Library Journal, starred review


“Romantasy writer Golden’s (A Dawn of Onyx) first contemporary romance is full of passion, heart, and harmony; a standout in the genre.” —Library Journal, starred review


Nonfiction

The Power and Beauty of Noticing

“A treasure. Readers will engage with Taylor as she looks at and learns from birds, and perhaps pay closer attention the next time they hear birdsong in their backyard.” —Library Journal, starred review


A Scientist Explains Why We Can't Look Away

“Scrivner’s book is a refreshing read for those who would like to feel better about their own morbid curiosity.” —Library Journal, starred review



The Autumn of 1914, Ypres, and the Afternoon That Cost Germany a War

“Clear and intelligently written; enjoyable for both the average history buff and researchers.” —Library Journal, starred review


A Saga of Ambition and the Fight for a Black State

“Readers interested in 19th-century Black and Western history will enjoy this illuminating title.” —Library Journal, starred review


Triumph, Tragedy, and the Shaping of the American West

“A timely piece that is hard to put down. Hutton’s extraordinarily well-researched and in-depth perspective of a period in American history that has captured imaginations and proved eternally fascinating has something for everyone. For experts, lay historians, and casual readers alike.” —Library Journal, starred review


How the Scream Films Rewrote the Rules of Horror

“Cullins offers the most comprehensive look at a very self-aware slasher series, providing knowledgeable fans with even more insight and a glimpse of Scream’s future.” —Library Journal, starred review


Audiobooks

”You’s debut is a delightful fable that combines Korean folklore with an It’s a Wonderful Life vibe and Spirited Away action.” —Library Journal, starred review


”With an imaginative setting, a clever plot, and a stand-out performance, this audiobook is a delight and a must-listen.” —AudioFile Earphones Award winner

Age 8-12 years

A Love Story

”Julia Whelan and Kristen DiMercurio beautifully narrate a queer love story.” —AudioFile Earphones Award winner


A Novel

”This is a story that deserves to be told, and this audiobook tells it well.” —AudioFile Earphones Award winner