Today's Featured Books

An epic tale of adventure, love, and the clash between fiction and truth. Emerson Blackwell’s world shattered when her mother died. But later, when she encounters her mother via a secret library Catalogue that contains portals to parallel universes, Emerson must determine whether her mother is a villain publishing dangerous books or whether the people governing the secret catalogue have something to hide. "Urban fantasy for bookish folks." ~Back Shelf Books. 4.2 stars, 226 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

On the verge of achieving her songwriting dreams, Sarra Wilcox’s world shatters when betrayal and an unexpected call from her estranged father send her fleeing home. Seeking refuge on her best friend’s houseboat, My Blue Agave, she finds solace in the coastal town of her youth and in a charming stranger. But when her father resurfaces, forcing her to confront long-buried secrets, Sarra must decide if she’s ready to face the past, heal old wounds, and reclaim her future. 4.3 stars, 36 ratings. From $2.99 - SHOP NOW / 

A sweet romance series set in the In Bloom flower shop in Bloomington, IL. Septuagenarian owner Anna Lee Foster is happiest when she's helping customers, mentoring the young ladies who work for her, or pampering her beloved cat, Salty. The first three full-length novels of this series, which feature three of the young ladies working at In Bloom, are included in this box set: Peonies for Paige, Dahlias for Dominica, Lillies for Lauren + two bonus chapters. From $6.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

In the shadows of Area 51's clandestine labs, the unthinkable has been unleashed: creatures engineered to decimate armies now roam free. Created to be unstoppable on the battlefield, these creatures are unbound by human constraints, sowing fear with their existence. And yet, a child might hold the key, and her bond with the “mon-ters” (as she calls them) might be the only hope for a beleaguered community. 4.3 stars, 230 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

An engaging collection of humorous, compulsively readable sci-fi tales. A hen party takes place in outer space, a galactic bailiff is tasked with evicting everyone from Earth, a ‘spy human’ on a sinister mission, and much more in these witty and wry short stories. 4.2 stars, 94 ratings. From $0.99 - SHOP NOW / 

Shiraz Jones moves to the quiet fishing village of Redcliff-upon-Sea, hoping for a fresh start, not a murder investigation. But when a young woman she just met falls to her death, Shiraz becomes the only one who can unmask the killer. With the police convinced the case is closed and a murderer watching her every move, Shiraz must race against time to uncover the truth before the murderer strike again. 4.3 stars, 99 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

Lily, thirteen and the last of her kind, is thrust into a world of dark magic and violence in which supernatural forces tug at the very fabric of reality, shadowy characters lurking in every corner. With a rich tapestry of characters and a captivating blend of fantasy and suspense, this thought-provoking adventure challenges perceptions and explores the enduring power of unity in the darkest of times. From $0.99 - SHOP NOW / 

Society told her she had no value. He said her worth was untold. Linah Morane, a well-known woman of Meridionalis, has been scorned and taunted her entire life due to her abnormalities. After the humiliation of being abandoned at the altar, she humbly accepts the unexpected marriage proposal to the King's Vizier, Kohl. Secrets are exposed and loyalties shift in this thrilling tale of love and war. 4.2 stars, 51 ratings. From $0.99 - SHOP NOW / 

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Friend Dilemma, a new release in the Emma Just Medium Series about friendship, self-esteem, and emotions/feelings. Perfect for young readers ages 7 - 10.

"Short chapters, simple vocabulary, and syntax make the book perfect for readers who are still new to chapter book reading. The Friend Dilemma is a fun and instructive story about navigating the emotional challenges of school friendship." ~The Children's Book Review

BONUS: See the information sheet from One Elm Books to learn more about The Friend Dilemma, and be sure to also check out The Beach Dilemma, Book 1 in the Series.

The Friend Dilemma

Even though Emma’s summer turned out well, it was topsy turvy. That’s why she can’t wait to get back to her routine with her best friends, Lily and Amelia.

Emma has only been able to stay in touch with her friends by phone and texting, so she is super excited to have a playdate where they will do all the things they have always loved to do together, including Legos and science experiments. But when the girls come over the day before third grade starts, things don’t go as planned. 

Lily has transformed into a ballerina, and Amelia now finds Emma’s science boring. On top of that, they want to play with Little, Emma’s younger brother, more than with her!

Emma needs to fix things and fast. She will have to wow her friends so everything can go right back to normal, and she will do it on the first bus ride to school. But Emma finds that third grade is proving to be different in more ways than one.

Will Emma’s plan work or will she have another big dilemma to resolve?

The Beach Dilemma

Book 1 in the Emma Just Medium Series
Genre: Young Readers Fiction, Juvenile Fiction Humor
Available in hardcover, audiobook, and e-book from $3.99

Middle-kid Emma is stuck between her two brothers, again.

She has to ride in the middle seat as her family heads out on a weeklong beach vacation with friends, where Emma knows that being just medium will only get worse! Then she has an idea. What if she could get out of being in the middle by taking on a new role? What if she acted BIG? Will Emma's plan work, or will she have another huge dilEmma?

Praise for The Beach Dilemma
"A fun children’s book with charismatic characters that kids will enjoy following." ~Literary Titan

"A valuable lesson about embracing one's personality and learning to appreciate what makes each of us unique." ~Kirkus Reviews

2024 Florida Authors and Publishers Association Silver Award Winner

2023 Bookpal's Outstanding Works of Literature WINNER - Elementary Category

About the Author
Laura Wiltse Prior is a middle grade author who loves cookie dough, reading, and tennis. When she isn’t writing, she is driving her children around, hiking with Cody, her Portuguese Water Dog, or hanging with Casper, the nicest cat in town. She lives and writes in Connecticut with her husband and three kids, the inspiration for her stories.

About the Illustrator
Marta Kissi is a London-based illustrator originally from Warsaw. She studied BA Illustration & Animation at Kingston University and MA Communication Art & Design at the Royal College of Art. Her favorite part of being an illustrator is bringing stories to life by designing charming characters and the wonderful worlds in which they live.

About the Publisher
One Elm Books is an imprint of Red Chair Press, an indie press committed to learning and literacy (and laughter!). Founded in 2009, Red Chair Press has been dedicated to publishing series to engage children in stories that provide models for strong character and good behavior. By working with only the highest-quality artists from around the world, Red Chair Press ensures that their books will appeal to a wide range of readers. Learn more at RedChairPress.com, and be sure to follow them online:
 

    

Free online: NYPL Virtual book Tasting. Get a "taste" of a variety of new and popular books, courtesy of the librarians of the New York Public Library. Friday, January 31, 3 - 4 PM EST. 

“When the going gets tough, the tough get a librarian.” ~Joan Bauer

"A fun and entertaining fantasy." ~Kirkus Reviews. How far would you go to free the love of your life from prison? In a post-Ragnarok world, magic and mayhem collide with mystery and humor as Rory proposes to Ingefær—only for the Shrine to erupt in flames. With Ingefær jailed and facing execution, Rory races to uncover the truth while dodging relentless soldiers, and Ingefær plots to break through the jail's magic wards. Can they solve the Shrine fire mystery before the law tears them apart forever? $2.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

New release: Feb. 1! Detective Mike Canyon’s peaceful life in Avoca, Oklahoma, is shattered when two prominent citizens are murdered, and the only clue is a dead man’s thumbprint. As he races to catch the killer, a cryptic warning “Don’t be late” fuels his determination. Meanwhile, Geoffrey Norkum, posing as a Texas Ranger, hides in plain sight, but when Canyon’s wife is kidnapped and poisoned, the truth behind Norkum’s deception reveals a reality more shocking than anyone could imagine. From $2.99 - SHOP NOW / 

How many wives does it take to reach the White House? For ambitious congressman Danny Harper, a modern-day Henry VIII, his marriage to Kaydence Pruitt—a legacy heiress with strong faith—starts as a political alliance but quickly spirals into betrayal and chaos. As their relationship unravels, the fallout threatens to reshape their lives and the future of the nation itself. Will Danny’s hunger for power consume him, or can he find redemption before history repeats itself? From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW /  

Valentine's Day comes and goes, but these hilarious dad jokes are guaranteed to keep the laughs rolling all year long. Packed with family-friendly humor, this book is the perfect gift for anyone who loves to laugh—and a unique way to share the joy of Valentine’s Day. A true romance book for those in love with laughter! 4.2 stars, 37 ratings. From $2.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

When a test flight of the world's first warp engine goes wrong, Major Noah Gantz is transported across the universe to stars unknown. Stranded in space and on the brink of death, Noah is rescued by a sentient starship and its captain. To save his life, the ship's biomatter must replace his failing cells. Now, Noah is different. Stronger, faster, and there's a voice in his head. The voice of the ship itself, and its name is Kayan. 4.3 stars, 4200+ ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

A gritty romance, complete with an all-new alpha anti-hero who will haunt your dreams and your fantasies. I’m Sterling Sparrow, kingpin of Chicago. Nearly two decades ago, my father showed me a photograph—a girl with golden hair and light brown eyes—and told me that one day, if I proved myself, the girl would be mine. Seasons turn to years and years pass. Chicago is now mine. It is time to claim my queen. Book 1 of the Sparrow Webs Series. 4.4 stars, 4500+ ratings. FREE - SHOP NOW / 

Set in the mysterious Shock Pepper realm, this fantasy-sci-fi epic weaves multiple storylines, mind-bending twists, and morally gray characters. Jobless and hopeless, Sam takes a potion from a witch to sleep for ten years, only to wake up three months later in a hospital with a pregnant woman claiming to be his wife. As reality unravels, this suspense-filled thriller takes readers on a journey where nothing is as it seems. 4.6 stars, 35 ratings. FREE - SHOP NOW / 

Navigate the literary world with confidence, attracting readers and opportunities while sharing your message. Publishing a book is just the beginning. Building your brand and creating buzz can feel overwhelming, but the right strategies make all the difference. This book equips you with tools for success, from book signings to podcasts, helping you grow your readership, refine your approach, and elevate your work to the next level. From $4.99 - SHOP NOW / 

A college student heads to Puerto Rico to learn more about the Taino Indians. Instead, he meets his worst nightmare: frogs with quite an appetite. To up the ante, it's not just killer frogs. The iguanas also have an obsession with human flesh. You might rethink that vacation after reading this! 4.1 stars, 32 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight Dr. Alaska and the work of author Jillian David.

Dr. Alaska is the recently released first book of the Yukon Valley, Alaska Hospital Series of medical romances. Paging Dr. Breakup (book two of the series) is coming this April and is available for pre-order now. In the meantime, you might also want to check out The Cowboys of Copper River Boxed Set, which is available for only 99 cents!

Dr. Alaska

Lee Tipton, MD, takes running from her past to an extreme, hotfooting it from Georgia to a temporary position at Yukon Valley Hospital in chilly Alaska. Her newly purchased winter gear may protect her from the elements, but no amount of insulation can protect her from her deep-seated fear that a romantic partner will once again use her for personal gains. Despite the hospital staff’s matchmaking efforts, Lee swears she has no interest in the town’s cocky lead paramedic, even if his sexy smile sets off palpitations.

Maverick Steen learned his one simple rule of romance the hard way: no dating outsiders. That includes the hospital’s newest fish-out-of-water doctor, whom he finds himself paired with as they navigate critical care cases and snowmobile accidents. Yet when Lee embraces the beauty in the Alaskan interior and cottons to his sled dog team of misfits, suddenly, Maverick’s heart—and his bed—feel a whole lot warmer.

Praise for Dr. Alaska

★★★★★ "Excellent medical romance set in the beautiful rural mountains of Alaska." ~Goodreads Review

★★★★★ "Witty, fun, and so romantic." ~Amazon Review

Paging Dr. Breakup

Widow Deirdre Steen has spent the last five years making sure she’s the best chief nursing officer Yukon Valley Hospital has ever seen. It cost her a personal life—and protected her heart. But now her childhood friend, Dr. Calvin Garrett—the one who got away—is temporarily lending his emergency medicine skills to their rural hospital in Alaska’s interior. The community’s relentless matchmaking network loves a challenge, which leaves Deirdre with one viable option: a fake dating pact with Calvin until the spring Breakup Festival and his inevitable departure to his regular job and his life in Seattle.

Calvin moved away years ago rather than watch his best friend marry Deirdre. Now, amazingly, she’s in Calvin’s bed and the center of his world. Yet a woman like Deirdre deserves forever—as well as a man who didn’t finish as runner-up the first time around. Can an Alaskan spring thaw help two wounded healers thaw the ice surrounding their hearts and fulfill this second chance at love?

The Cowboys of Copper River Boxed Set

Three full-length wild adventures through western Wyoming with sexy ranchers, smart women, and otherworldly forces. Fans of Christine Freehan, B.J. Daniels, Duane Boehm as well as Sam Scott, Dannika Dark, and I.T. Lucas will enjoy discovering this series.

Praise for The Cowboys of Copper River

★★★★★ "A unique take on the paranormal paired with romance." ~Amazon Review

★★★★★ "Well-constructed family saga about siblings with special powers who must unite to save humanity." ~Goodreads Review

            

Free online: Talk with Janika Oza, author of A History of Burning, winner of the 2024 Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature, a finalist for the 2023 Governor General’s Award for Fiction, longlisted for the 2024 Carol Shields Prize for Fiction, and a New York Times Editor’s Choice. A masterful and breathtakingly intimate saga of colonialism and exile, complicity and resistance. Presented by the Mississauga Library, Ontario, Canada. Wednesday, January 29, 7 - 8 PM EST. 

“What was love but one long act of forgiveness, of choosing to return, over and over again.” ~Janika Oza, A History of Burning

Susan Kingsley, a historical acquisitions assistant with dreams of making her mark at the Smithsonian, discovers letters from 1870 that hint at a hidden mine linked to a wagon train bound for the Mormon lands. While she tracks the letters’ new owner across the West, her ex-husband, FBI agent Andrew Harrison, shadows her every move. As Susan grows bolder in her quest, Andrew’s obsession descends into deceit, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown over long-buried secrets. Kirkus Star Award Winner. 4.1 stars, 34 ratings. From $1.99 - SHOP NOW / 

On a quiet island shrouded in secrets, Policewoman Christine Lane is determined to prove herself after a humiliating transfer. When a resident is killed during a violent protest, Christine defies orders and secretly investigates, uncovering dark local secrets. As danger closes in, she must unmask the killer before both her career and her life are cut short. If you like strong female protagonists, a lush island setting and page-turning suspense, you’ll love Final Look. Book 1 in the Christine Lane Mystery Series. 4.2 stars, 865 ratings. FREE - SHOP NOW /