Fall Reading 2022 Fiction

Historical fiction meets Celtic lore in this eerie debut novel. The Wild Hunt takes place on a Scottish Island after World War II. What seems like a story about the aftermath of war turns into a suspenseful mystery with atmospheric details so rich you will swear you can smell the heather. Seckel’s writing feels modern despite the setting which makes the story feel even more real and hauntingly poignant. With Daphne du Maurier vibes, this book is un-put-downable. I dare say it is one of my favorite reads so far.

—Kristina

Anyone who loves to read should pick up this book. The Reading List follows two main characters—Aleisha, a student working at her local library over the summer, and Mukesh, a recent widower. Their unlikely friendship grows as they make their way down a carefully curated list of literary classics made for people who might need an escape from their current reality.  This heartwarming story shows how books help us cope with tragedies and hardships we face throughout our lives. —Kalani

Tolstoy once wrote that all happy families are alike, but every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way. This is certainly true of the Izquierdo clan, who cannot agree on what has caused the sudden decline of the family patriarch, Papa Tavo. Each member of the Izquierdo family claims that the family’s misfortune originates from a different source (a curse from a neighbor [!], an inherited nervous disposition). These unique viewpoints regarding the state of the family affairs are told from the perspectives of multiple members of the Izquierdo clan, and the reader is given full access to the often clashing and always entertaining personalities of each family member. My personal favorite narrator is Gonzalo, the vulnerable and self-reliant eldest son. I read on to see what would become of Gonzalo’s marriage and his relationship with his aging father. I fully recommend The Family Izquierdo to readers who love multi-generational family sagas.

—Katrina

This novel is a beautiful example of how different people can shape our lives, no matter how long they played a role. Kim’s book follows the story of forgein travelers Henrik and Fumiko, with sections that focus on the time before, during, and after Fumiko’s death. Although there is no linear narrative to hold the pieces of Henrik’s journey together tightly, the themes that flow from one to the next connect this novel in a surprisingly wholesome way. —Nikole

Vivian believes her singing daughters could make it on the world’s stage and works towards the dream tirelessly. However, members of The Salvations have grown up and out of their girlhood aspirations. This is a book deeply grounded in place set against the backdrop of 1950s San Francisco Fillmore neighborhood struggling against gentrification. Watching every woman in this book fight to be understood as an individual made this an incredibly satisfying read.

—Ivy

This novel, about a star tennis athlete coming out of retirement to defend her status as winner of the most grand slam titles, was a delight. My lack of tennis knowledge mattered very little, as Reid’s depiction of Carrie Soto won me over and she became someone I was truly rooting for. Without going into much further detail, I will say that I love it when an unlovable character is lovable, and Carrie is just that. This was a fun read that surprised me with its hidden depth. —S.M.C.

Sidik Fofana, public school teacher turned breakaway debut author, shines a light on one apartment building in Harlem through a series of interconnected stories about the strength, hardship, and community built between those struggling to face the tide of gentrification. Each story carries a deep impact for the reader, and the lyrical and emotional storytelling is not something you'll soon forget. 

—Casey

Witches is a truly captivating novel. Lozano’s story comes to life as two women, raised worlds apart, discover their true positions of power within their equally, yet incredibly different, patriarchal settings. This is a beautiful dive into rich South American culture, with a specific magnification on those who do not conform to gender norms. This is for readers who themselves are skeptics, believers, healers, psychics, or spiritualists. —Nikole

Finally, a new novel from the author of A Constellation Of Vital Phenomena! Mercury Pictures Presents is an intricately researched look at Mussolini's Italy and the government mandated Hollywood propaganda machine of WWII. Following a wide and alive cast of immigrants trying to reinvent themselves to fit in a sharp and changing world, this novel showcases Marra's profound sense of human nature in its beautiful and hilarious writing. —Zoe

Is a sprawling city, where unfettered growth is a cultural hallmark, justified in taking water from a small, impoverished community? How far should a country at war go to protect itself from perceived threats? Set in the stark but picturesque Owens Valley, Properties of Thirst will leave you wondering just what it means to be “American.” If your recent book club discussions have been falling flat, this gem might turn things around.

—Glenn