Today's Featured Books

Four complete novels! One woman’s journey to self-discovery in the Gilded Age could destroy everything she’s ever known. Vivian is out to uncover family lies and create a brighter future for herself. Jake is searching for a father figure, only to endure sin and redemption. Larissa is obsessed with rigid social codes to hide the shameful secrets of her past. “May's historical fiction picks apart the delicate facade of American gentility in upper-class families on the wild West Coast at the end of the nineteenth century.” ~Lisa Lickel, author. From $2.99 - SHOP NOW /

A prequel short story paranormal romance adventure with vampires, krakens, and deep sea danger. Follow Sebastian Moreau—the silver-eyed enforcer of The Nocturne—as he tracks a pirate ship for blood, tech, and secrets. Pirates will bleed, a kraken-sized mystery will stir, and one vampire will break protocol to keep a woman he should have killed. 4.4 stars, 11 ratings. FREE - SHOP NOW /

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on two highly rated works of historical fiction from author Maria Luisa Lang:

• The Pharaoh's Cat, Book 1 in the series, 4.5 stars, 287 ratings
• The Eye of Nefertiti, Book 2 in the series, 4.3 stars, 177 ratings

Bonus: The e-book editions of both books are available as FREE downloads from multiple online retailers. Don't miss out on these fun reads!

"Who would have thought that ancient Egypt could be so funny?" ~Koko's Book Blog

The Pharaoh's Cat

Suddenly talking and walking upright, a stray tomcat in ancient Egypt becomes the young Pharaoh's intimate and, when accused of murder, time travels to New York City and learns how to raise Pharaoh from the dead.

The cat is a quick-witted, wisecracking narrator as well as a free-spirited, ever-curious protagonist, and the story he tells is an exotic, imaginative, spell-binding tragicomedy. The novel interweaves feline and human, past and present, natural and supernatural. It contains numerous surprises, twists and turns, intriguing characters (both human and animal), and fascinating revelations about ancient Egyptian history and culture.

Praise for The Pharaoh's Cat
"Conflict, humor, history, romance, time travel, suspense...I fell in love with this book." ~Susan Barton, eBook Review Gal

"A wealth of rich history here, brought to life by a talented storyteller who is obviously also well-versed in the daily rituals and activities of ancient Egyptian customs and rituals." ~Don Sloan, justfreeandbargainbooks

"Great for long-time fans of cats or for readers looking for a good and fun read." ~Joss Radillo, Koko's Book Blog

The Eye of Nefertiti

Now a New Yorker, the Pharaoh’s cat travels back in time to free Egypt’s legendary Queen Nefertiti from a horrific curse, discovering firsthand why her mummy has never been found and her famous bust is missing one eye.

Added to all this is an ingenious use of the Tarot and Italian opera, making for a fabulous story that will transport readers to different locations in the past and present.

Praise for The Eye of Nefertiti
"Detail and realism about ancient Egypt that only someone with both knowledge and passion can bring." ~Vikki Heaven, Escapology Reviews

"Well-written historical fiction." ~Wendy Scott, Multi-Award Winning Author

"Oozes with charm." ~Socrates Book Review

"Hilarious!" ~Charity Rowell-Stansbury, On My Kindle Book Reviews

Join Next Stop Italy for a free virtual tour of Montepulciano. Known for its magnificent views, idyllic rolling hills, medieval and Renaissance history, and its wine, Montepulciano is the quintessential Tuscan village. Thursday, August 28, 10 - 11 AM CDT. 

“Learning never exhausts the mind.” ~Leonardo da Vinci

Rookie detective Sydney Livingstone thought she'd left the chaos of her tennis career behind when she joined the Walsh County Police Department. But on the dark web, a vigilante is waging their own brand of justice, pushing Sydney to confront a force that threatens to unravel everything she holds dear as she navigates a twisted maze of corruption, deception, and conspiracy within her own department. 4.6 stars, 46 ratings. From $2.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW /

From award-winning author Kim Catanzarite comes a BlueInk Review Notable Book: Svetlana has met her soul mate in a young astronomer whose eccentric family becomes obsessed with her pregnancy in this heartbreaking character-driven love story. Book 1 of The Jovian Universe pentalogy of plot-twisting sci-fi novels. "Captivating!" ~BlueInk Review. 4.2 stars, 461 ratings. From $1.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW /

From Los Angeles to London, Chicago to Goa, the Australian Outback and beyond, this collection captures the messy, often absurd architecture of human lives—compressed into moments of sharp beauty, sly humor, and unsettling truth. From slow dances that never end to human/AI romances to war stories that surprise and shock, these tales move fluidly between the intimate and the epic. Love becomes both balm and weapon. Loneliness births imaginary companions. Deviants justify cruelty with high-minded philosophy. Everyone is seeking love...or a way out. From $4.99 - SHOP NOW /

“Gripping, timely, and unafraid to confront uncomfortable truth, this thriller lingers well beyond its final page. GET IT!” ~Kirkus Review. She’s missing! He's ruined! Secrets sizzle. Wildfires rage! In a world grappling with climate change, violent crimes, and family secrets, the relentless pursuit of justice collides. Can Dick DeCosta and his vulnerable family survive? “Filled with high octane tension...a must-read for thriller lovers." ~Lisa Towles, Amazon bestselling author. 4.7 stars, 28 ratings. From $0.99 - SHOP NOW /

After Prince Tyrran of Cadoria witnesses the defeat of his army and the fall of Cadoria due to betrayal from within, his conquerors give him an agonizing choice: betray his country or watch it burn. Now he seeks to uncover the traitor's identity and deliver vengeance for his slain men, his country, and himself. From $0.99 - SHOP NOW /

At thirty-two, newspaper reporter Molly Hacker vows never to attend another wedding until she has had her own. And that’s a problem because Molly’s younger sister is going to be married in one year. Armed with snark, wit, and fabulous good looks, “Picky Molly” embarks on a quest to find Mr. Right. But things get complicated fast as four “men of interest” and the memories of a lost love send Molly's over-analytic, befuddled mind into serious overdrive. 4.1 stars, 193 ratings on Goodreads. FREE - SHOP NOW /

Under the stadium lights, they are stars, but off the field there are no rules. Especially when it comes to their hearts. Grab this binge-worthy box set from author Violet Paige and relive all five seasons with both teams with complete full-length novels. Which couple will have you cheering for more? From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW /

Two weeks ago, we told you about The Sweetest Getaway, a new cozy heist novel full of laughs and international intrigue from author Sasha Preston. Today, we are writing to share several exciting updates:

• $2.99 Sale! The e-book edition of The Sweetest Getaway was released today and is on sale for $2.99 now through September 1.
• FREE! Get the first chapter of The Sweetest Getaway free when you sign up to receive news and updates from Sasha.
• FREE! Get a free copy of "A Sweet Scheme," a standalone short story prequel to The Sweetest Getaway. 

Read on to learn more...

The Sweetest Getaway

Genres: Women's Fiction, Cozy Crime Thriller
E-book release: August 26, 2025
4.2 stars, 5 ratings on Amazon.com
4.11 stars, 9 ratings on Goodreads
Paperback: $11.99
E-book: On sale for $2.99 until Sept. 1

The smartest heroines since Ocean’s 8.

Jennifer used to be a wholesome daydreamer who’d never broken a law in her life. But all of that changes when her roommate, Nari, ropes her into a money-making scheme that isn’t exactly legal.

Soon, Jennifer is so busy leading a double life that she barely has time to fantasize about the hot, dimpled stranger she met at one of Nari’s parties. How could she have known that stealing from bad guys would be so much fun?

Everything is going smoothly—until someone rats them out to the cops. Now, They’ll need the sweetest getaway ever to escape this mess.

Perfect for fans of women’s fiction and crime capers. 

Praise for The Sweetest Getaway

"Robin Hood-esque tale with a well-thought-out plot, fun details...and likeable characters." ~BlueInk Review

"A fun female caper filled with comedic mishaps and adventure." ~Readers' Favorite

"A gripping, girl-powered caper that sees a community of women joyfully come together." ~LoveReading

"A lively, funny, action-filled scheme, spiced by romance and fueled by female solidarity." ~IndieReader

"An electric heist novel." ~Foreword Reviews

Sign up for Sasha's newsletter to get a free copy of the first chapter of The Sweetest Getaway, plus news, updates, and other fun exclusives. (Follow the link, then scroll down to "Get the first chapter!") 

Get a free copy of "A Sweet Scheme," the standalone short story prequel to The Sweetest Getaway. 



★★★★★ “A delightful short story that celebrates the bonds of friendship, the thrill of adventure, and the sweetness of shared moments.” ~Paul Zietsman, Readers’ Favorite

About the Author

Sasha Preston writes women’s fiction crime capers where close friendships and adventure come together to inspire your next big escape (or at least make you think about planning one). She loves to explore and hatch plots with her girlfriends, daughter, and husband. Learn more at SashaPreston.com and be sure to follow Sasha online: 
 

        

The Eudora Welty House & Garden hosts tours and events at the author's former home in Jackson, Mississippi. Not in Jackson? You can participate in the Welty at Home Virtual Book Club. Next up: A discussion of Tom Lake by Ann Patchett, beginning Monday, September 8, at Noon CST. 

“Write about what you don’t know about what you know.” ~Eudora Welty

Kyle Hawkes has made a career chasing ghosts on camera, exploring haunted ruins, and unraveling old legends. But when an unaired episode of his paranormal series leaks online, it triggers a chain reaction that unearths a scandal the Vatican buried decades ago. "Delightfully dark and twisted." ~Amazon Review. 4.8 stars, 7 ratings. From $4.99 - SHOP NOW /

Effie and Ben are partners in life—and in crime. Seduction, lies, and manipulation are their specialty. But when old secrets surface, their perfect partnership begins to fracture. And losing could be deadly. An Audible Best of the Year 2024 selection. 4.3 stars, 678 ratings. FREE - SHOP NOW /

Anna and Ben have been inseparable since college. But when Anna's roommate, Leilani, shows interest in Ben, Anna begins to question if there's more to their friendship. Anna seeks guidance from a campus pastor who encourages Anna to be honest with Ben about her feelings. But as Anna musters up the courage to open up to Ben, she wonders if she's already missed her chance at love. From $2.99 - SHOP NOW /

A refreshing look at the world through the lens of flash fiction and poetry. Unique in its treatment, this is not your typical poetry narrative. Humorous, direct, engrossing, insightful, and entertaining, with interlocking stories that shed light on navigating this often chaotic existence, including human behavior and how the universe works. Topics include love, unique people, personalities, depression, habits, starting over, zombies, and cats. FREE - SHOP NOW /

Catrin is the rightful heir to the Celtic throne, but she is enslaved by a Roman commander who believes Catrin is an oracle of Apollo and can foretell the future. The sole bright spot in Catrin's life is her forbidden lover, Marcellus, the great-grandson of the famed Roman General Mark Antony. But i f her love and alliance are discovered, Catrin's dreams of returning to her Celtic home will be shattered. 4.4 stars, 43 ratings. From $0.99 - SHOP NOW /

In this two-part story, Ursula attempts to bring her lover into her children's lives following her divorce resulting from her infidelity. The children appear to accept David, but deliver a traumatic surprise on the day of Ursula's wedding to David. In the aftermath, Ursula is consumed by her delusions and is forced into therapy. Can Ursula break free of her delusions and rebuild her life? 4.4 stars, 12 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW /

New Release: An age-gap billionaire boss romance. How do I know my boss is obsessed with me? He nearly ended a guy for touching me. Anatoly Ovechkin isn't just my boss. He's the king of Las Vegas. When my brother steals from the Bratva, Anatoly's deal is simple: "Marry me, or bury your brother." Now I'm falling for the monster who owns me. But my secret could destroy everything. 4.7 stars, 36 ratings on Goodreads. $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW /

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on new contemporary Christian fiction, small town and rural fiction, and family life fiction from Baker Publishing Group: 

• The Atlas of Untold Stories by Sara Brunsvold (released June 17, 2025)
• When the Road Comes Around by Katie Powner (released August 5, 2025)
• The Bitter End Birding Society by Amanda Cox (released August 19, 2025)

Bonus: Get a 30% discount on books purchased directly from the publisher.

The Atlas of Untold Stories by Sara Brunsvold

A literary journey beckons them . . . and may profoundly rewrite their stories.

Chloe Vance, dreamer of the family, needs to tell her pragmatic mom, Edie, that she has accepted a low-paying art instructor role at a Christian school in Prague. Her older sister, Lauren—the "responsible one"—is doing all she can to hide the fact she's been fired for a foolish mistake and is desperately seeking her next career move. Meanwhile, Edie, estranged from her own sister following their mother's recent death, is frankly in no mood for anything else to change.

The one thing they can all agree on? Life in books sure is easier to navigate than life in the real world. As the three women embark on a nine-day road trip to visit significant literary sites throughout America's heartland, they hope to find inspiration through the works and lives of literary greats. As they experience firsthand the adventure and wonder of the classics, they'll discover the value of being honest with themselves—and their family—about their losses and failures. Only then can they come to terms with their own needs and desires and find support from the most important women in their lives—each other.

Book clubs will relish this trek through America's classic literature as award-winning author Sara Brunsvold pens an inspirational novel of mother-daughter relationships, sisterhood, literary themes, a cross-country road trip, and books about books.

Praise for The Atlas of Untold Stories
"You'll want to slow down and savor this one." ~Julie Klassen, bestselling author

"Heartwarming, inspiring, road trip adventure." ~Melissa's Bookshelf

When the Road Comes Around by Katie Powner

Only trouble can bring about the beauty of redemption and grace.

In the small town of Grady, Montana, twenty-four-year-old Tad Bungley has a reputation for trouble. But when he lands a job at Come Around Ranch, his life seems to take a positive turn. As he develops a soft spot for Sam, the ranch owner's disabled son, and a special bond with TJ, a rescue horse with a poor reputation of his own, Tad becomes determined not to bungle it up this time.

Forty-eight-year-old Anita Wilson is too young to feel so old, but rheumatoid arthritis limits her ability to work on the guest ranch she owns with her husband. It was a risk to hire Tad for the summer, but Anita is convinced he just needs a bit of encouragement to find his footing. What she doesn't anticipate is that Tad's presence at the ranch will change everything, including her relationship with her son. And when Tad finds himself in more of a mess than ever, he and Anita must learn when to hold on, when to let go, and what grace really means.

Fans of Fredrik Backman, small-town stories, middle-age characters, redemption arcs, and second chances will enjoy this clean, gently humorous contemporary novel set near the mountains of rural Montana.

Praise for The Atlas of Untold Stories
"Katie Powner is my go-to author for multigenerational tales that take a tender and honest look at the human condition." ~Amanda Cox, Christy Award-winning author

"A stick-with-you testament to why nurturing hopeful perseverance in ourselves and others is always the best route to take." ~Sara Brunsvold, Christy Award-winning author

The Bitter End Birding Society by Amanda Cox

A forbidden romance, a fractured family, and one woman's journey to piece it all together.

Hometown hero Ana Leigh Watkins ventures to Bitter End, Tennessee, to help her great-aunt prepare for retirement. A town called Bitter End seems an ironic place for Ana to refresh her weary spirit, but she's desperate for respite from the attention and unwarranted admiration of her community. While on a hike in Roan Mountain, a ragtag group of amateur bird-watchers takes her under their wing—a little against her will. However, she quickly warms to these genuine souls seeking solace in the great outdoors.

But when Ana's adventures in Bitter End lead her to a severed branch of her family tree—one that involves the forbidden love between a moonshiner's daughter and a preacher's son—what began as a getaway to help her great-aunt becomes a transformative journey that binds together two women who, though they live on the same street, have been estranged for sixty years.

An immersive faith-based novel of finding belonging, reconciliation, and new beginnings for fans of Southern fiction. This narrative of friendship and community makes for a perfect book club selection.

Praise for The Bitter End Birding Society
"A heart-deep journey of courage, compassion, and connection." ~Amanda Dykes, bestselling author

"An emotionally gripping must-read." ~Julie Cantrell, New York Times bestselling author

    

The Edinburgh International Book Festival, the world-leading festival of words, literature, and ideas. wraps up this weekend and includes a dozen online events Saturday and Sunday that you can attend free or for whatever you would like to donate. 

“The trouble with having an open mind, of course, is that people will insist on coming along and trying to put things in it.” ~Terry Pratchett, Diggers

During an irregular time in Egypt's history, they had no one but each other. In Egypt, the year 2011 marked a brief Era of Enlightenment (post the Jan 25 revolution), with booming figures of book readership and Internet usage, when most citizens had an increasing interest "to know," along with mixed feelings of fear, hope, belonging, and excitement. Liberal voices were rising in a society commonly believed to be conservative, and existential struggles started hitting many minds within the middle class. From $7. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

When Detective Hiroshi Shimizu leaves the safe confines of his office to investigate a triple murder at a porn studio, the leads point him in multiple directions. Together with an ex-sumo wrestler and his old-school mentor, Hiroshi tracks the killers through Tokyo's teen hangouts, bayside docks, and crowded squares, straight into the underbelly of the global economy. As bodies wash up from Tokyo Bay, Hiroshi uncovers trafficking rings and cryptocurrency scammers whose connections extend to the highest levels of Tokyo's power elite. 4.4 stars, 700+ratings. From $6.99 - SHOP NOW /