Here is a preview of some of the books we are looking forward to in June:
June 6
Arrow of Lightning (Killer of Enemies, Book 3) by Joseph Bruchac — Months after she has been healed from the Enemy Sickness that afflicted her in Trail of the Dead, Lozen and her family have gathered a community around them in Valley Where First Light Paints the Cliffs and have begun to rebuild. “This gripping saga suggests that where change is possible, hope for the future remains” (Kirkus starred review).
Breaking by Danielle Rollins — Charlotte, an outsider at prestigious Underhill Preparatory Institute, must decide if she is willing to risk her own safety and sanity to discover the truth about her two best friends’ suicides. “This tightly wound, sci-fi-tinged mystery is a beautifully plotted combination of unexpected twists, sudden scares, and uncanny moments…this mystery belongs on all shelves” (Booklist starred review).
Dividing Eden by Joelle Charbonneau — Twins Carys and Andreus were never destined to rule Eden. With their older brother next in line to inherit the throne, the future of the kingdom was secure. But appearances—and rivals—can be deceiving. When Eden’s king and crown prince are killed by assassins, Eden desperately needs a monarch, but the line of succession is no longer clear. “The world of Eden is not always fully developed—readers will likely walk away with a few questions—but Charbonneau’s skill as a thriller writer will hook readers as the tension between the siblings grows and the Trial of Succession rushes towards an explosive end” (Booklist).
Firebrand (Steeplejack, Book 2) by A.J. Hartley — Once a steeplejack, Anglet Sutonga is used to scaling the heights of Bar-Selehm. Nowadays she assists politician Josiah Willinghouse behind the scenes of Parliament. The latest threat to the city-state: Government plans for a secret weapon are stolen and feared to be sold to the rival nation of Grappoli. “Readers who come for the tightly plotted mystery will stay for the heroine who does all she can to resist” (Kirkus starred review).
The Hush by Skye Melki-Wegner — Chester has taken to the road, traveling from village to village desperately searching for his father, who has disappeared. One night while fiddling to earn a few coins, he accidentally connects to the Song—the music that fuels every aspect of the world, and that it’s illegal for him to interact with. He’s caught and sentenced to death for his crime. Only a licensed Songshaper can bend music to his will. “Masterfully drawn details are so crisp, so tangible, that readers will be surprised they can’t just reach out and touch this rich world. A steampunk-tinged fantasy adventure with plenty of breath-holding action” (Kirkus starred review).
Liberty: The Spy Who (Kind of) Liked Me by Andrea Portes — What is a hero? Paige Nolan knows. Edward Raynes, the young man who exposed America’s unconstitutional spying techniques, is a hero, even if half the dum-dums in the country think he’s a traitor. Or Paige’s parents, journalists who were captured by terrorists while telling stories of the endangered and oppressed. They were heroes, too. Were. . . or are—no one has ever told Paige if they’re still alive, or dead. “An entertaining girl-power, kick-butt, espionage romp that belongs in all libraries” (School Library Journal starred review).
Once and For All by Sarah Dessen — Is it really better to have loved and lost? Louna’s summer job is to help brides plan their perfect day, even though she stopped believing in happily-ever-after when her first love ended tragically. But charming girl-magnet Ambrose isn’t about to be discouraged now that he’s met the one he really wants. Maybe Louna’s second chance is standing right in front of her. “Romance, humor, kindhearted characters, and a touch of painful reality make this another sure bet for Dessen fans” (Kirkus).
Perfect Ten by L. Philips — It’s been two years since Sam broke up with the only other eligible gay guy in his high school, so to say he’s been going through a romantic drought is the understatement of the decade. When Meg, his ex-Catholic-turned-Wiccan best friend, suggests performing a love spell, Sam is just desperate enough to try. He crafts a list of ten traits he wants in a boyfriend and burns it in a cemetery at midnight on Friday the thirteenth. “Fans of Stephanie Perkins or David Levithan will discover much to love about this sweet confection of a tale” (School Library Journal).
The Possible by Tara Altebrando — It’s been thirteen years since Kaylee’s biological mother, Crystal, once infamous for her supposed telekinetic ability, got a life sentence for killing Kaylee’s little brother in a fit of telekinetic rage. Today, Kaylee’s living a normal life with her adoptive parents and almost never thinks of Crystal…until a woman shows up on Kaylee’s doorstep, asking to interview her for a podcast about her mother. “This gripping tale, full of unexpected twists and turns, will intrigue readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with a touch of the paranormal” (School Library Journal).
Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo, Book 1: The Road to Epoli by James Parks — Meet Rickety Stitch…a walking, talking, singing skeleton minstrel. He’s the one skeleton in the dungeon who seems to have retained his soul, and he has no idea why. His only clue to his former identity is a song he hears snippets of in his dreams, an epic bard’s tale about the Road to Epoli and the land of Eem. His sidekick and sole friend is the gelatinous Goo, who Rickety alone can understand. Together they set out in search of Rickety’s past, with abundant humor and danger galore. “For those who loved Noelle Stevenson’s Nimona and have struggled to find something similar, this may scratch that itch. Don’t be fooled by the cheery illustrations; this is irreverent, bawdy, and lots of fun” (Kirkus starred review).
Song of the Current by Sarah Tolcser — Caroline Oresteia is destined for the river. Her father is a wherryman, as was her grandmother. All Caro needs is for the river god to whisper her name, and her fate is sealed. But at seventeen, Caro may be too late. So when pirates burn ships and her father is arrested, Caro volunteers to transport mysterious cargo in exchange for his release. Secretly, Caro hopes that by piloting her own wherry, the river god will finally speak her name. “This enticingly written tale will take readers on an adventure and leave them craving more” (School Library Journal starred review).
Tash Hearts Tolstoy by Kathryn Ormsbee — After a shout-out from one of the Internet’s superstar vloggers, Natasha “Tash” Zelenka suddenly finds herself and her obscure, amateur web series, Unhappy Families — a modern adaption of Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina — thrust in the limelight: She’s gone viral. “It’s beyond refreshing to see an asexual character, and the complexities of Tash’s relationships with Thom, her friends, her sister, and, yes, fame make this a home run. The flip, irreverent tone, literary references, and peek into the creation of a web series are just icing on the cake” (Booklist starred review).
This Impossible Light by Lily Myers — From the YouTube slam poetry star of “Shrinking Women” (more than 5 million views!) comes a novel in verse about body image, eating disorders, self-worth, mothers and daughters, and the psychological scars we inherit from our parents. Fifteen-year-old Ivy’s world is in flux. Her dad has moved out, her mother is withdrawn, her brother is off at college, and her best friend, Anna, has grown distant. Worst of all, Ivy’s body won’t stop expanding. “Myers makes striking use of the flexibility of free verse to communicate Ivy’s emotions and eventual loss of control. Ivy’s relationship with her mother and her understanding of what she has inherited from her are particularly absorbing and evocative” (Publishers Weekly starred review).
Wildman by J.C. Geiger — When Lance’s ’93 Buick breaks down in the middle of nowhere, he tells himself, Don’t panic. After all, he’s valedictorian of his class. First-chair trumpet player. Scholarship winner. Nothing can stop Lance Hendricks. But the locals don’t know that. They don’t even know his name. Stuck in a small town, Lance could be anyone: a delinquent, a traveler, a maniac. One of the townies calls him Wildman, and a new world opens up. “A thought-provoking, hilarious, eloquent story of a young man realizing that the world is much larger than the one set up for him” (Kirkus starred review).
Words in Deep Blue by Cath Crowley — Years ago, Rachel had a crush on Henry Jones. The day before she moved away, she tucked a love letter into his favorite book in his family’s bookshop. She waited. But Henry never came. Now Rachel has returned to the city—and to the bookshop—to work alongside the boy she’d rather not see, if at all possible, for the rest of her life. But as Henry and Rachel work side by side—surrounded by books, watching love stories unfold, exchanging letters between the pages—they find hope in each other. “This poignant tale exquisitely chronicles the journey from hopelessness to learning to live again. The charismatic and well-crafted cast will immediately draw readers in” ( starred review).
June 13
Be True to Me by Adele Griffin — It’s the summer of 1976 on Fire Island, where sunbathing, lobster bakes, and the Bicentennial celebration reign. Jean, a sometimes cruel, often insecure, and always envious rich girl, is accustomed to living in her glamorous older sister’s shadow. So when Gil Burke, a handsome newcomer with uncertain ties to one of the most powerful families in the exclusive enclave of Sunken Haven, notices Jean–not her sister–Jean is smitten. “An atmospheric and engaging piece of historical fiction, this work will haunt and resonate with readers long after it ends” (School Library Journal starred review).
The Bone Queen by Alison Croggon — In this prequel to the Books of Pellinor, Alison Croggon captivates fans old and new with her ancient, legendary world of Annar. After being seduced into sorcery by an agent of the Dark, the promising Bard Cadvan of Lirigon recklessly unleashed the terrible Bone Queen, bringing destruction down upon Annar. Cast out of the Schools of Barding for his crime, Cadvan now lives in exile, burdened by memories of his dealings with the Dark. “Croggon’s humbly exquisite prose weaves splendor into everything” (Kirkus starred review).
The Fallen Kingdom (The Falconer Trilogy, Book 3) by Elizabeth May — Aileana Kameron, resurrected by ancient fae magic, returns to the world she once knew with no memory of her past and with dangerous powers she struggles to control. Desperate to break the curse that pits two factions of the fae against each other in a struggle that will decide the fate of the human and fae worlds, her only hope is hidden in an ancient book guarded bythe legendary Morrigan, a faery of immense power and cruelty.
Garbage Night by Jen Lee — In this graphic novel, a dog named Simon lives with his two best friends, a raccoon and a deer, in a barren and ransacked backyard. The unlikely gang spends their days looting the desolate supermarket and waiting for the return of the hallowed ‘garbage night’ – but week after week, the bins remain empty. While scavenging one day, the trio meets another abandoned dog who tells them about the ‘other town’ where humans are still rumored to live. “[Lee’s] verbal worldbuilding gives readers just enough information about animal society and what came before to spark the imagination, and vivid, expressive cartooning fills in the gaps” (Publishers Weekly starred review).
Hell and High Water by Tanya Landman — Mystery turns to mortal danger as one young man’s quest to clear his father’s name ensnares him in a net of deceit, conspiracy, and intrigue in 1750s England. Caleb has spent his life roaming southern England with his Pa, little to their names but his father’s signet ring and a puppet theater for popular, raunchy Punch and Judy shows — until the day Pa is convicted of a theft he didn’t commit and sentenced to transportation to the colonies in America. “Landman brings to life the sights, sounds, and injustices of a bygone era and is just as attentive to Caleb’s strong emotions as his life becomes increasingly dangerous” (Publishers Weekly starred review).
Julia Defiant (Witch’s Child, Book 2) by Catherine Egan — Fans of The Rose Society, Graceling, and Six of Crows will thrill to the masterful world-building and fiercely flawed heroine in this heart-pounding follow-up to Julia Vanishes, book two in the Witch’s Child trilogy. Julia and a mismatched band of revolutionaries, scholars, and thieves have crossed the world searching for a witch. But for all the miles traveled, they are no closer to finding Ko Dan. No closer to undoing the terrible spell he cast that bound an ancient magic to the life of a small child. “Fans of the first book will be well-satisfied with this outing, packed with primordial mysteries, convoluted twists, international politics, romance, and friendships aplenty—and a high body count” (Kirkus starred review).
The Leaf Reader by Emily Arsenault — Marnie Wells knows that she creeps people out. It’s not really her fault; her brother is always in trouble, and her grandmother, who’s been their guardian since Mom took off is…eccentric. So no one even bats an eye when Marnie finds an old tea-leaf-reading book and starts telling fortunes. “Arsenault’s page-ripping whodunit not only will send readers running for their tea kettles, but packs the thrill of self-discovery and acceptance amid base adversity: a rich, rewarding teen debut” (Kirkus starred review).
Midnight at the Electric by Jodi Lynn Anderson — This epic tale—told through three points of view—is an exploration of how love, determination, and hope can change a person’s fate. Kansas, 2065: Adri has been handpicked to live on Mars. Oklahoma, 1934: Amid the fear and uncertainty of the Dust Bowl, Catherine’s family’s situation is growing dire. England, 1919: In the recovery following World War I, Lenore tries to come to terms with her grief for her brother, a fallen British soldier. “[Anderson] threads mystery into each teen’s story, keeping an even pace as she reveals secrets, betrayals, and heartbreak” (School Library Journal starred review).
Our Dark Duet (Monsters of Verity, Book 2) by Victoria Schwab — The sequel—and conclusion—to Schwab’s bestseller, This Savage Song. Kate Harker is a girl who isn’t afraid of the dark. She’s a girl who hunts monsters. And she’s good at it. August Flynn is a monster who can never be human. No matter how much he once yearned for it. He has a part to play. And he will play it, no matter the cost. “The price of violence, even for a reason, is high, and Schwab folds questions of identity, morality, and judgment into her stunningly crafted narrative” (Booklist starred review).
Roar (Stealing Storms, Book 1) by Cora Carmack — In a land ruled and shaped by violent magical storms, power lies with those who control them. Aurora Pavan comes from one of the oldest Stormling families in existence. As the sole heir of Pavan, Aurora’s been groomed to be the perfect queen. She’s intelligent and brave and honorable. But she’s yet to show any trace of the magic she’ll need to protect her people. “While leaving readers with many questions, Carmack creates enough suspense that they’ll be scrambling for the sequel” (Kirkus Reviews).
Saints and Misfits by S.K. Ali — An unforgettable debut novel that feels like a modern day My So-Called Life…starring a Muslim teen. “For readers unfamiliar with Muslim traditions, Ali offers plenty of context clues and explanations, though she always keeps the story solidly on Janna’s struggle to maintain friendships, nurse a crush, deal with bullies and predatory people in her life, and discover her own strength in the process” (Booklist starred review).
Soldier Boy by Keely Hutton — Begins with the story of Ricky Richard Anywar, abducted at age fourteen in 1989 to fight with Joseph Kony’s rebel army in Uganda’s decades-long civil war. Ricky is trained, armed, and forced to fight government soldiers alongside his brutal kidnappers, but never stops dreaming of escape. The story continues twenty years later, with a fictionalized character named Samuel, representative of the thousands of child soldiers Ricky eventually helped rehabilitate as founder of the internationally acclaimed charity Friends of Orphans. “While the subject matter is mature, the story is accessible and addresses topics such as world history, civil war, and shifting political powers. A must-purchase for teen collections” (School Library Journal starred review).
Thief’s Cunning by Sarah Ahiers — The companion novel to Assassin’s Heart, this novel picks up eighteen years later and follows Allegra Saldana as she uncovers the secrets about the line of killers she descends from. Allegra has always had to look over her shoulder. As the niece of the infamous assassin Lea Saldana, Allegra is used to hiding from people who want her dead. “Fans of the previous installment will tune in as it becomes clear how Allegra and her family became such legendary assassins” (School Library Journal).
An Uninterrupted View of the Sky by Melanie Crowder — In 1999 Bolivia, Francisco’s life consists of school, soccer, and trying to find space for himself in his family’s cramped yet boisterous home. But when his father is arrested on false charges and sent to prison by a corrupt system that targets the uneducated, the poor, and the indigenous majority, all hope is lost. Francisco and his sister are left with no choice: They must move into the prison with their father. “This poetic, historical novel is an important addition to libraries given its focus on the consequences of U.S. involvement in Bolivian politics” (School Library Journal starred review).
June 20
Such A Good Girl by Amanda K. Morgan — Pretty Little Liars meets Luckiest Girl Alive in this riveting novel about a practically perfect girl who is willing to do anything to make sure it stays that way. Absolutely anything. “Give this strong addition to fans of unreliable narrators, antiheroines, and page-turners” (School Library Journal).
Toni (Blacktop #4) by LJ Alonge — A street-smart, action-packed basketball series with action on and off the court. Toni isn’t Coach Wise’s favorite player on Team Blacktop. Honestly, she’s not even in his top five. And if she’s being real, her own teammates keep siding with him during practice. But this isn’t the first time she’s been on her own, and it won’t be the last. If you can’t count on yourself, who can you count on?
Trusting You & Other Lies by Nicole Williams — Phoenix can’t imagine anything worse than being shipped off to family summer camp. Her parents have been fighting for the past two years–do they seriously think being crammed in a cabin with Phoenix and her little brother, Harry, will make things better? On top of that, Phoenix is stuck training with Callum–the head counselor who is seriously cute but a complete know-it-all. “This is a charming summer romance with realistic responses and relatable characters” (Booklist).
Twisted Summer by Willo Davis Roberts — Two kids, two lives, ruined before they even began. One, a girl, dead—strangled in an empty cabin. The other, a boy, spending the rest of his life in jail for her murder. To Cici, it all seems so unreal. These were kids she had grown up with, whom she had known. She can’t believe Brody Shurik could have murdered Zoe Cyrek. Something’s going on here, and Cici’s going to find out exactly what it is.
Two Roads From Here by Teddy Steinkellner — Five high school seniors. Two different roads. One life-changing decision. For fans of Tommy Wallach and Patrick Ness comes a thoughtful, funny novel that explores what happens to five teens when they choose the road…and the road not taken. “A must-have coming-of-age story that will resonate with all types of YA readers” (School Library J0urnal).
June 27
Generation One (Lorien Legacies Reborn series, Book 1) by Pittacus Lore — The first book in a new series set in the world of I Am Number Four series. It has been over a year since the invasion of Earth was thwarted in Pittacus Lore’s United as One. But in order to win, our alien allies known as the Garde unleashed their Loric energy that spread throughout the globe. Now human teenagers have begun to develop incredible powers of their own, known as Legacies.
The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee — Henry “Monty” Montague doesn’t care that his roguish passions are far from suitable for the gentleman he was born to be. But as Monty embarks on his grand tour of Europe, his quests for pleasure and vice are in danger of coming to an end. Not only does his father expect him to take over the family’s estate upon his return, but Monty is also nursing an impossible crush on his best friend and traveling companion, Percy. “Modern-minded as this may be, Lee has clearly done invaluable research on society, politics, and the reality of same-sex relationships in the eighteenth century. Add in a handful of pirates and a touch of alchemy for an adventure that’s an undeniable joy” (Booklist starred review).
If Birds Fly Back by Carlie Sorosiak — Linny has kept a journal of famous disappearances ever since her sister Grace ran away in the middle of the night. Sebastian is an aspiring astrophysicist with a working theory for everything—but the one thing he can’t figure out is the identity of his birth father. They haven’t met—yet—but Linny and Sebastian have one thing in common: an obsession with famous novelist and filmmaker Àlvaro Herrera, who who went missing three years ago and has just reappeared. As their lives converge around the mystery of Àlvaro, they begin to uncover the answers they’ve been looking for. “Fans of brainy romance will likely like this one” (Booklist).
Midnight Jewel (Glittering Court series, Book 2) by Richelle Mead — Mira is not like the other Glittering Court girls. She is a war refugee, cast out of her home country and thrust into another, where she has learned to fight against the many injustices around her. For some, the Glittering Court offers a chance at a life they’ve only ever dreamed of, one of luxury, glamour, and leisure. But for Mira, it’s simply a means to an end. In the new world, she plans to earn off her marriage contract price, and finally be free.
Now I Rise (And I Darken, Book 2) by Kiersten White — Lada Dracul has no allies. No throne. All she has is what she’s always had: herself. After failing to secure the Wallachian throne, Lada is out to punish anyone who dares to cross her blood-strewn path. Filled with a white-hot rage, she storms the countryside with her men, accompanied by her childhood friend Bogdan, terrorizing the land. But brute force isn’t getting Lada what she wants. And thinking of Mehmed brings little comfort to her thorny heart. “The subject matter has become even more mature as this lush and ominous retelling of the Vlad Dracul legend continues, but teens will be entranced” (School Library Journal).