Library

• December 4 – The Amateur by Robert Littell is a brisk, suspenseful spy thriller centered on Charlie Heller, a CIA cryptographer driven by grief to seek revenge after his fiancée’s murder. Littell excels at creating tense, immersive Cold War atmospheres and infuses the narrative with detailed codework and a propulsive plot. While Heller’s rapid transformation from analyst to field agent stretches plausibility, the story delivers gripping twists and thought-provoking explorations of revenge and morality, making it a satisfying read for espionage fans.
• January 15 – James by Percival Everett reframes Mark Twain’s classic from Jim’s perspective, offering a profound, darkly humorous, and deeply moving retelling. Everett’s James is no longer a passive figure—he’s observant, self-educated, and fiercely determined to reunite with his family, even as he risks everything for freedom. The novel’s voice is vibrant and biting, illustrating the brutal realities of slavery while reclaiming personal agency. Everett’s masterful storytelling makes James unforgettable—a searing modern classic.
• February 19 – Still Life by Louise Penny is the first novel in her popular Chief Inspector Armand Ganache series. Set in the fictional village of Three Pines in rural Quebec, the story combines the allure of a classic whodunit with rich character development and atmospheric storytelling. Still Life is not just a murder mystery, but also a portrait of a community grappling with loss and revelation. As with all the Ganache novels, it blends its wonderful cast of characters with surprise, empathy and a deep sense of place.
• March 19 – My Friends by Fredrik Backman is a moving tribute to the transformative power of friendship and art. The novel follows four teens who form a tight bond during a difficult summer, and a painting that unites them across decades. Backman’s heartfelt storytelling, deep characterizations, and emotional honesty shine as the story weaves themes of trauma, hope, and healing. It’s a poignant, bittersweet read that celebrates the strength found in chosen family and the beauty of connection.
• April 16 – King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby is a blistering Southern noir packed with emotional intensity and gut-punch suspense. Cosby’s storytelling blends explosive violence, deep family secrets, and a relentless pace, as Roman Carruthers battles to save his siblings from ruthless criminals. The atmosphere is saturated with tension and heartbreak, with characters who are flawed yet compelling. Cosby’s prose is both raw and poetic, making this a gritty, unforgettable crime saga that lingers long after the final page.
  

Book discussions are held in the library the 3rd Thursday of the month unless otherwise specified (from December through April) at 11:30 am. Guests are welcome. A Zoom link will be provided by email 15 minutes before the discussion begins.