New Books - NewInBooks

Interview with Jacqueline Diamond, Author of A Cat's Guide to Danger

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write A Cat’s Guide to Danger?

I love reading cozy mysteries with snarky talking cats and heroines who discover they have superpowers, but I wanted to create my own alternate reality rather than using witches and vampires. On a visit to Prague, I learned about a legendary rabbi who created a magical creature called a golem, and also about a real historical evil queen who expelled the Jewish people from that beautiful city.

I wondered ... what if the leaders all had magical powers? What if they united to shift their town to another realm, with unexpected consequences? Centuries later, along comes an orphan girl who has no idea of her special heritage... Three books into the Forgotten Village Magical Mystery series, I’m still completely absorbed in the story! By the way, I write each book so it can be read on its own.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of A Cat’s Guide to Danger, what would they be?

Did you ever hear the Peggy Lee recording of “The Alley Cat Song”? That would suit Kafka! He’s a black tom with attitude to spare.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

My favorite genre to read right now is paranormal cozy mysteries, which is what I’m writing. I’ve also written medical mysteries, romantic comedies, and Regencies.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst, Claws of Justice by Emmie Lyn, Chapter and Curse by Nancy Warren, Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood, and Hallucinations by Oliver Sacks (nonfiction).

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

It’s the chapter in which my heroine, Chess, and her cat Kafka return to the California town where she grew up, on an urgent mission. They introduce their companion and friend, a handsome detective who grew up in a quaint town infused with magick, to a world of cell phones, Halloween costumes, and TV news.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I prefer silence while I write. I tend to bite people who interrupt me.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

This above all: To thine own self be true... but remember that your right to swing your fist ends where the next guy’s nose begins.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

How much they loved the characters, and how often they laughed.

Jacqueline Diamond is the author of the new book A Cat’s Guide to Danger

Connect with Jacqueline Diamond

Sign up for our email and we’ll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.

Interview with Marc B. DeGeorge, Author of Pim's Peculiar Passion

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Pim's Peculiar Passion?

I enjoy writing quirky stories with lots of heart, and after watching the movie Ice Pirates, I was considering writing a space pirate story. Somehow, that idea morphed into a story about a side character from my Origin Story series, Danny Lecker. I thought she would make a great protagonist for a new series as her backstory as a bounty hunter who hunts down prospective spouses for her clients made for a fun premise.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Pim's Peculiar Passion, what would they be?

Easy! Wannabe - Itzy, IDLE - Tomboy, and aespa - Whiplash.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I switch between sci-fi and fantasy. I've mostly written sci-fi, but I've started writing fantasy as well.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Justin Cronin - The Ferryman, Assassin's Apprentice - Robin Hobb, The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi - Shannon Chakraborty, Provenance - Ann Leckie, and On Impulse - Heather Texle.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

It's hard to pick just one, as there are so many scenes I enjoyed, but if I had to pick one, I'd say the final scene.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I like cats, but I'm allergic! Not sure if this is quirky, but I act out my characters when I'm working on a scene.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

I was never wiser than on the day I was born - Henry David Thoreau.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

That love takes many forms, and we do not choose who we fall in love with.

Marc. B DeGeorge is the author of the new book Pim's Peculiar Passion

Connect with Marc. B DeGeorge

Author Site

Facebook

Buy The Book

Sign up for our email and we’ll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.

Interview with David Grau, Author of Changing the World

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Changing the World?

I ask my grandchildren to leave every room or place they walk away from better than they found it. As I pass through my mid-sixties, I feel like that about the world, too... It needs a lot of help… from a lot of good people… and right now. Small business owners are powerful and capable. To that end, this is a book about hope, encouragement, and a strategy to make a real difference. It is all about leaving the world in a better place than we found it.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Changing the World, what would they be?

The main characters in my book are the individual small business owners around the world. Accordingly, Bonnie Tyler’s “Holding Out for a Hero” has the energy, drama, and defiant hope that mirrors my book’s rallying cry: "Where are the everyday heroes willing to take responsibility? To lead with integrity? To build something that can last?"

This song is bold, it is emotionally urgent, it is intense, and it is fun, all at the same time! Owning a small business is my main character’s superpower. The heroes in my book are those who show up every day to serve employees, customers, suppliers, and the community with courage and care. My book says: The heroes we need aren’t out there someplace; they’re right here. They’re you.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I wrote three books in my first year of "retirement," so not much time to read. But when I did read a lot, well… I miss Tom Clancy!

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Mostly non-fiction books that I think I could write better (humbly and respectfully so), or make more meaningful and enjoyable. I have the technical skills, but I really enjoy storytelling and adding some fun learning elements to my writing.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Mine is a non-fiction book, of course, but I created a business teaching scene using Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde! I think creativity in a non-fiction book is more important, not less.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I always have a cup of tea sitting nearby to get me through the tough spots, and to make the good moments even better!

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

"Get it done." I don't believe in procrastination or writer's block. Sit down, write, polish it up, write some more. Tomorrow will come. 500 hours later, a book will be born!

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

"Hey, I can make a real difference. I started and now own a small business. I can change the world if I so choose!"

David Grau Sr. is the author of the new book Changing the World

Connect with David Grau Sr.

Author Site

Buy The Book

Sign up for our email and we’ll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.

Interview with Rick Walker, Author of 9 Steps to Build a Life of Meaning

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write 9 Steps to Build a Life of Meaning?

This is an effort to reach the men aged between 25-45 who are in the midst of a meaning crisis.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of 9 Steps to Build a Life of Meaning, what would they be?

Mahler's 5th.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Religion.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Tao Te Ching, Mastery, and Power of Awareness.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Introduction.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

Latte first thing in the morning.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

You must give away what you wish to keep.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

The wisest mind looks into the most distant future for the most valued reward, which can only be purchased with the currency of the present.

Rick Walker is the author of the new book 9 Steps to Build a Life of Meaning

Connect with Rick Walker

Sign up for our email and we’ll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.

Interview with Yvonne Joseph, Author of The ADHD Advantage

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The ADHD Advantage?

As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside so many individuals and families navigating the challenges and unique strengths that come with ADHD. What truly inspired me to write this book was witnessing how often my patients felt misunderstood or blamed themselves for the way their brains work. I wanted to create a resource that goes beyond the clinical setting. Something warm, practical, and deeply validating.

My goal was to blend evidence-based strategies with real-life stories, so readers feel seen and empowered, not broken or deficient. I believe ADHD can be an incredible asset when people learn how to work with their brains rather than constantly fighting them. This book is my way of extending the conversations I have in my office every day to anyone who needs hope, compassion, and concrete tools to thrive with ADHD.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The ADHD Advantage, what would they be?

‘Good Grace’ – Hillsong UNITED.

'You Say’ by Lauren Daigle.

‘Fear Is a Liar’ – Zach Williams.

‘Peace Be Still’ – Hope Darst.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I’ve always loved reading Christian non-fiction, especially books that combine faith with real-life struggles and hope-filled encouragement. Books that remind us we’re not alone in the messiness of life. I’m drawn to authors who write honestly about mental health, parenting, or daily discipleship, anything that helps people feel seen and points them back to God’s unchanging grace. So yes, my favorite genre to read is definitely the same as what I love to write: practical, compassionate Christian books that bring light into hard places. For me, writing about ADHD through a faith lens means reminding people that they’re wonderfully made, not defined by a diagnosis and that God is present in their chaos and their quiet moments alike.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Anxiety Workbook for Teens, Depression Workbook for Teens and Adults, and Living with Borderline Personality Disorder.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Time Blindness and the ADHD Clock, Own Your Voice and The 20-Minute Life.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I always have a cup of something warm nearby, usually peppermint tea or just plain hot water because it helps me slow down and settle my thoughts.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

I don’t promise perfection—I promise presence, patience, and progress.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

You don't need more time. You need a better way to see it. When you start your day without structure, time tends to vanish, but with just 20 minutes of focus, you can create clarity, reduce overwhelm, and feel more anchored. This ritual is built for an ADHD brain, with low effort and high return, and is built on visual tools and quick wins.

Yvonne Joseph is the author of the new book The ADHD Advantage

Buy The Book

Sign up for our email and we’ll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.

Interview with Michael R. Schultheiss, Author of Augury of Blood

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Augury of Blood?

Augury of Blood was born from my deep love for the history, myth, and heritage of Europe’s ancient and medieval cultures. As an Anglo-American, I’m deeply conscious of my Germanic and Celtic roots, and I’m fascinated by the cultural and mythic connections between them and other Indo-European-speaking peoples in Europe and elsewhere. One story in particular inspired me, and that was Richard Wagner’s Ring Cycle (Der Ring des Nibelungen). It’s a mesmerizing story of mythic heroism as well as a tragedy of greed and betrayal, all set to some of the most incredible music ever created. Wagner taught me that epic fantasy could again become a space for the numinous and a means of evoking the gods of my folk, and from those deep waters of inspiration, I drew forth what became Augury of Blood.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Augury of Blood, what would they be?

For Leukon, a heroic young warrior determined to create a world free of Titans, I’ll go with “I Feel the Breath of Ragnarok” by Ukrainian folk metal band Nokturnal Mortum, from their Weltanschauung album. The longing for heroism in a callow age would appeal to him.

For Windarra, a king’s daughter with a terrible secret, I’d have to go with “Nemo” by Nightwish, from their album Once, a song that expresses a deep yearning for belonging and comfort.

For Verthokar, a warrior lord burdened by the weight of his concerns for his people’s loss of warrior virtue— a consequence of their reliance on Titans— I’d go with Bathory’s “Song To Hall Up High” from the album Hammerheart for his more melancholy and contemplative moods, and “A Fine Day to Die” from the album Blood Fire Death for when he’s riding into battle.

For Proytamnes, a psychopathic warrior prince allied with the forces of darkness, the song “Night’s Blood” by Dissection, from the Storm of the Light’s Bane album: it’s anti-cosmic black/death metal created by Satanic nihilist weirdos, and he’d eat it up with a proverbial spoon.

And finally, for Nelmari, an enslaved former priestess trying to rescue her sister and herself from Proytamnes, I’d have to go with Nightwish again, this time “Sleeping Sun” from the Decades album: a beautiful, mournful song I think would profoundly move her.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

My two favorite genres to read are epic fantasy, which is what Augury of Blood is, and historical non-fiction, which is part of what Augury of Blood is inspired by.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

My TBR pile is huge and constantly growing, and books migrate in and out. With that said, I recently finished Virtue’s End by my friend Joseph Sale, an incredible epic poem that should be mentioned in the same breath as Paradise Lost, and I’m determined to read many more of his books. I’m also reading and greatly enjoying The Price of Power by Michael Michel, and I intend to read more of his books as well.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I’d have to say probably Interlude V when a certain wandering god undertakes a journey to the realm of the great goddess Mother Night: it features mythic spectacle, an original song, and a bargain between gods.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

Yes, I only write at my standing desk, after I’ve exercised, had breakfast, caffeinated, and I always drink black coffee (iced in summer, hot the rest of the year), followed by mushroom coffee and mushroom chai (same pattern of iced and hot).

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Life is struggle, pain, and glory. I believe in family, folk, and faith, in seeking excellence and honoring the gods and the ancestors.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

My hope is that the reader will find Augury of Blood a story of boundless adventure and heroism in a mythic realm of gods and numinous forces. And for some, I believe, it may well provide an experience of transcendent significance.

Michael R. Schultheiss is the author of the new book Augury of Blood

Connect with Michael R. Schultheiss

Sign up for our email and we’ll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.

Interview with Clementine Rowe, Author of A State of Maine

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write A State of Maine?

I lost my job due to a disability about eight months ago; then I just started writing.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I am a bit all over the spectrum of genres. I'll write what comes to me usually then find a place for it.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Probably "One Golden Summer." I've been wanting to read that.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The wedding rehearsal scene, I won't say much, but it was satisfying to get past that point.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I am constantly surrounded by cats.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Not particularly, I guess it would be to always finish what you start.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

Wanting it not to end.

Clementine Rowe is the author of the new book A State of Maine

Buy The Book

Sign up for our email and we’ll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.

Interview with Ulysses Namon, Author of DeWulf's Twins

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write DeWulf's Twins?

Logan and Alex DeWulf were the first characters I ever conceived. I tried putting them in other stories, but that wasn't enough; I wanted to make their story special.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Science Fiction. I love it so much that I started writing my own stories.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

The Trouble with Podoks, the Blind Spot, and Expedition by Alexander Elliot.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Any scene that I have been imagining for a long time, especially an action scene.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I like to write as many as 3 books at the same time. I have so many ideas, I can't wait to write them down!

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Take your time, you never know when you'll have another great idea pop into your head.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

That my book was fun to read.

Ulysses Namon is the author of the new book DeWulf's Twins

Connect with Ulysses Namon

Facebook

Buy The Book

Sign up for our email and we’ll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.

New Mystery and Thriller Books to Read | July 8

Hold on to the edge of your seat as we hunt for clues and solve the case with these exciting new mystery and thriller books for the week! There are so many bestselling authors with new novels for you to dive into this week including Jacqueline Diamond, Mary Stone, T.S. Falk, and more. Enjoy your new mystery, thriller, and suspense novels. Happy reading!

Get The Book

Sign up for our email and we'll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.

New Romance Books to Read | July 8

Looking to fall in love with some new romance reads? You’ll adore these exciting new novels! This week you can get your hands on books by bestselling authors Aleatha Romig, Misha Bell, Clementine Rowe, and more. Enjoy your new romance books and happy reading!