WHAT'S HAPPENING

AROUND THE BEND

River Bend Booksellers Staff Picks

Meghan: The Curse of Pietro Houdini by Derek B. Miller

"A massive art heist in the middle of a monumental battle in the Italian hilltops, a curse, and a coming of age.

Part World War II historical fiction, part character drama, part thriller, all epic novel.

This book is full of action and heart."

Audrey: The Fury by Alex Michaelides

"This book reads like 'White Lotus' if it were a Shakespearean comedy. Imagine the elements of a murder mystery—an immersive 1st-person narrative, the discovery of a body, an unpredictable cast of characters — set on a private Grecian island with ample nods to mythology.

A darkly comedic, pulse-pounding 'locked room' whodunit sure to delight.

Jillian: The Comfort of Crows by Margaret Renkl

A love letter to nature that will quickly become your evergreen companion.

I cannot think of a single person who would not enjoy this illuminating narrative.

I dare you to allow this book to bewilder and transform you. My only difficulty is to not read ahead of the weekly pace, I want to inhale this wonder-full gem."

Mary: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

"As someone who generally avoids the hype when it comes to popular reads, Fourth Wing generated so much conversation that I finally thought, 'Ok, I'll bite.'

Wow, am I glad I did! This was the book that I eagerly crawled into bed and read until 3am, I just could not get enough.

Spicy dragon romantasy for the win!"

Elsa: Down the Drain by Julia Fox

"Julia Fox is one of the most outlandish celebrities to have gotten media attention in the past 2 years. But this memoir is a 'masterpiece' as she claims. It truly is.

Julia is misunderstood, chaotic, and simply fun. This memoir is heartbreaking, honest, and one of a kind. One of my favorite celebrity memoirs to date."

Kaitee: To Shape a Dragon's Breath by Moniquill Blackgoose

"If you're craving an incredible dragon-academy book, look no further! When an indigenous girl finds a dragon's egg she becomes the first to be chosen by a dragon in years.

An excellent and layered fantasy, filled with questions of societal expectations, lost traditions, and who is allowed in what spaces. If you loved R.F. Kuang's Babel, read this book now.

David: How to Be the Love You Seek by Dr. Nicole LePera

"What better way to start the new year off than to focus on ways to improve yourself and how you show up in your romantic relationships!

LePera, whose Instagram you should follow for tips, advice, and more direction for your healing journey, gets vulnerable as she brings all her tools to the fore in helping us face and address our own relational issues, attachments, and trauma. "

Veronica: Some People Need Killing by Patricia Evangelista

"I don't even know what to say about this book except that it is horrible (the subject matter), and you must read it."

Looking for more upcoming books to preorder?

Check out our local author campaigns below!

Deb: Fourteen Days: A Collaborative Novel by various authors- out Feb. 6!

"A collaboration between some of our most powerful literary voices, this novel centers around the stories shared by neighbors on the rooftop of their apartment building during the early days of pandemic lockdowns.

A wildly diverse novel that reminds us of what connects us--and how powerful those connections are when we actually seek them."

Taryn: Heartstopper #5 by Alice Oseman

"I continue to admire how this young adult graphic novel series deals with real life issues in such an inclusive environment. Be still, my heart!"

Complete the set with Vol. 1-4.

Renee: Don't Want You Like a Best Friend by Emma R. Alban

"Taylor Swift and historical romance fans rejoice, because this swoon-worthy debut has it all. Two young women avoid the marriage mart by trying to set up their widowed parents instead.

So cue up 'Dress' by Taylor Swift and settle in with this book that will keep you warm during the February chill."

Ernio: Lunar New Year Love Story by Gene Luen Yang and LeUyen Pham

"A perfectly timed new YA graphic novel celebrates Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day in a story of dating mishaps, lion dances, family secrets and even spirits from beyond.

Drawn by Leuyen Pham and written by Gene Luen Yang, it’s a fun read with unexpected twists and an overbearing but lovable grandmother."

Thank you for supporting our independent, locally-owned business!