Looking for some new biography and memoir books for your library? There are so many new releases this week that you’re bound to find a new favorite. You can pick up new novels from Shanaya Hassaan Ali, Mira Jacob, Nora McInerny, Elisabeth Hasselback, and more. Enjoy your new biography and memoir books. Happy reading!
What can you tell us about your new release, The Stars in Her Eyes?
Thank you so much for having me here! My newest release, The Stars in Her Eyes, is unlike anything I’ve written so far. It’s a new adult-aged reverse harem love story set in Hollywood, California. Even though the book is smoking hot, there is also an unparalleled depth to the friendships in the story, complex and painful pasts that the characters have lived through despite being so young, and most of all, a burning desire for the main character to achieve her dreams—all while stumbling upon an unexpected love affair unlike anything she’s ever experienced.
What or who inspired you to become an author?
It’s cliché, but I really have been writing for as long as I can remember. My mother was a natural writer and editor, and my whole family was big on reading. So even though we didn’t have a lot growing up, we always had books. I started my first journal when I was in third grade (it was a Judy Blume diary!), and have kept one ever since. I wrote my first family newsletter when I was in sixth grade called something stupid like The McCarey Gazette. And of course, I was an angsty, boy-obsessed teenager who wrote horrible poetry about love and heartbreak. But it wasn’t until high school when teachers started noticing my writing, making me aware of my abilities, and encouraging me to continue with it after graduating. When I attended Queens College, my professors there really helped me craft my writing in both organizational and business communications, as well as poetry and creative writing. One of my professors, Dr. Ron Bassett, basically told me on every paper that I needed to do something with my writing. So . . . I listened. Eventually.
What's on your top 5 list for the best books you've ever read?
No fair! Don’t make me do this! Seriously . . . it is so hard to choose. But one of my all-time favorite books is The Outsiders, by S.E. Hinton. It’s the only book I can still quote the first line from, and where I fell in love with both Robert Frost and Rob Lowe. I mean, what’s not to love? Off the top of my head, I’d have to say I also loved The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay, Beloved by Toni Morrison, Salt by Nayyirah Waheed, and basically anything by Colleen Hoover (though I always recommend Confess first).
Say you’re the host of a literary talk show. Who would be your first guest? What would you want to ask?
So, first of all—I can’t even imagine this scenario! I am a far better writer than speaker, and I get super tongue tied when I’m fangirling. Seriously. I once met Mary Higgins Clark and, literally, I couldn’t get a single word out. Even though I was in my twenties, my mother and brother had to save the show and jump in to make things less awkward while she signed my book. But I’d probably interview Toni Morrison, because Beloved is one of my favorite books. I guess I’d just want to talk to her about character development and how her characters come to her (to see if it’s a similar experience that I have), if they’re based on any one she personally knows, and how she’s able to tap in to write such intensely beautiful, poignant, complex, affected characters without absorbing too much of their pain.
What's your favorite thing about writing?
Hands down it’s the creative process. I’m a panster, and when a character “comes to me,” they come to me screaming for their story to be told. I love nothing more than to sit down and actually write and get lost in the words and conversations and romance. I love how my characters surprise me and have very distinct voices and ideas of their own. For me, writing it a very intuitive process, and I listen to my heart and my gut first when it comes to the both the story’s plot and the character’s motivations. And when I’m inspired, I can’t wait for any opportunity to snuggle up with my lap top and get lost in their world.
What is a typical day like for you?
Coffee, carpool, breakfast, working out/meditation/journaling time, walking the dog, writing, lunch, writing some more, carpool, then family time for the rest of the night. I’m in the car for over two hours every day so that’s usually when ideas come to me or I run character conversations and scenarios through my head. Sometimes I have to pull over and type it up on Notes or dictate something really fast because I can’t wait till I get home! But I’m very fortunate to be a stay at home parent who also gets to write full time.
What scene inThe Stars in Her Eyes was your favorite to write?
Omg . . . so many! I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but basically any love scene where the main character, Creslyn Knight, is building her relationships with her three love interests—Matías, Knox, and River—I had so much fun writing. They were each so different, and one of the hard things with contemporary reverse harem love stories is how to sell the fact that the female MC could realistically fall for multiple men. So there is a lot of character and relationship building. I also loved writing all the texting conversations because it really gave a chance for some fun, sexy, witty banter to transpire where we learn so much about the characters.
Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?
I do, actually. My favorite quote of all time is: “It doesn’t take a Herculean effort to be a miracle in somebody else’s life.” We impact, interact with, and influence people every day and it takes nothing away from your own being to be kind to someone else, to lift someone else up, or to help someone find the resources or assistance they need. Sometimes it can be the littlest things that can have the most profound impact on somebody else. You may never know what it is, or that you even did anything. But they know. I think we’d all be better off if we remembered there’s enough to go around for everyone, and even the smallest act of kindness or compassion can make the biggest impact in somebody else’s life.
Thank you so much for having me today! It’s been so much fun.
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By J. Saman
The Edge of Forever is a brother’s best friend, second chance romance with a bit of a twist. This story begins with Aria, our smart, feisty heroine, out having a good time with her friends. Only, the night takes a turn for the worse when she receives a call from the hospital. Her best friend, Josh was attacked and about to be wheeled into surgery. Aria races to the hospital and quickly discovers that Josh’s surgeon is none other than Weston Kincaid, her first…everything.
It’s been ten years since Wes has seen Aria. Ten years since she crawled out of his bedroom window that last time. Ten years since he left and never came back. Life had a way of keeping them apart. But now this sexy surgeon is older, wiser and the horrible demons of his past aren’t quite so debilitating. He’s ready to fight for the girl he never got over. But is he too late? Can time really heal all wounds?
The Edge of Forever weaves in and out of time, taking you on a journey through Aria and Wes’s past and present. We’re hit with growing questions surrounding Josh’s attack. Do Wes and Aria know the people responsible? Will they be brought to justice? This story is full of unexpected twists and turns that will keep you on the edge (pun intended) of your seat until the very last page.
I quickly fell in love with Wes and Aria. Both separately and together. What really drew me to them was how real they felt. My characters aren’t all good and they aren’t all bad. They are flawed and damaged and experience emotions we all do–insecurity, doubt, frustration, jealousy, depression… The list goes on and on. This book was sort of about that for me. This story is about how life is messy, raw and occasionally brutal, but it’s also beautiful, full of hope and love. It’s also about how the best things in life are worth fighting for.
J. Saman is the author of the new book The Edge of Forever
Connect with J. Saman:
Author Website
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What can you tell us about your new release, Princess of Wind and Sea?
The action starts in 1773. The two main characters -- Aisling and the prince -- race across the globe on a series of secret missions. From the shores of Asia to the wilds of western Ireland, a chase ensues as dark forces seek to destroy them both. Aisling's magical powers are increasing, but enemies lurk around every corner. The prince must protect her at all costs, as they fight for survival and abiding love.
What books are currently on your night stand?
It's an eclectic mix.
I love reading diverse genres -- from historical fiction and fairytales to fantasy and biographies.
Right now I'm re-reading The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, by C.S. Lewis.
I'm also entrenched in I, Eliza Hamilton, by Susan Holloway Scott.
I've just finished The Fortune Hunter, by Daisy Goodwin.
What advice would you give your teenage self?
Always pursue your dream, no matter the obstacles.
Anything is possible.
What makes your world go round? Why does it bring you joy?
Definitely family and friends. I've learned that great relationships -- and love -- make everything worthwhile.
What scene in Princess of Wind and Sea was your favorite to write?
I loved writing the scene about the prince when he was facing a crisis. There's a wide range of emotions from all of the characters. The chapter called The Lush Garden -- when Aisling and the prince arrive in Ireland -- is also a favorite.
I'd like to thank the readers for their interest in the Princess of Nature Series. I hope you enjoy the journey!
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By Danielle Norman
Sometimes the toughest cowboys are girls. It was that phrase that got me started with this series. For twenty-five years I lived in a small town in Florida where literally everyone knew your name. The school where my children attended took all the kids outside to sit in the field to watch the space shuttle launch and there was a sign in front of the school that read, No Horses Allowed on the Sidewalk.
To say it was a cowboy town was an understatement.
People always hear stories about the good ole days, well this is one of those places that is a short car ride away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks, and life is still like the good ole days.
When people think of Florida this isn't what they envision. So I decided to write a series set in the town of Geneva, Florida it was rich with history, I kept all of that in there, like the fact that one of the conspirators in the Lincoln assassination is buried in the tiny cemetery but only his head, then I added my characters and finally mixed in a love story. I believe readers will love this country theme that isn’t a western. Of course it has my typical sarcasm throughout.
Steadfast is book three in the Iron Horse series although it can be read as a stand-alone. It is the story of Holland Kelly, she is the youngest of the three Kelly sisters. The bane of her existence is her next-door neighbor Dick Brooks. Okay, his name really is Reid but Holland thinks Dick sound so much better. When they are forced to come to a meeting of the minds the country girl wants to send his Thoroughbred ass packing back to Kentucky with his Triple Crown and his Mint Juleps.
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What can you tell us about your new release, The Infamous Duchess?
Set in 1820, during a time when few women owned property, Viola Cartwright has built a thriving hospital using the funds left to her by her late husband, the Duke of Tremaine. Many believe the young widow to be a scheming fortune huntress who conned the old man out of his money – a certainty that is echoed by her step-son when he returns home to claim his inheritance.
Suddenly, Viola finds herself in the middle of a lawsuit in which she stands to lose everything she holds dear. But she finds a surprising ally in London’s most notorious rake when he arrives on her operating table after a duel. Henry Lowell is a man Viola knows she ought to avoid, but his persistence will gradually have him scaling the wall Viola has built around her heart. And as his affection for her deepens, he will do everything in his power to save her reputation and help her win the case against her.
This was not only a fun but also a somewhat complex story to write. There’s the hospital with all the physicians and surgeries happening. Then there’s the lawyers working on the case against Viola leading up to a trial. Both of these aspects required a great deal of research. And finally there’s the growing relationship between Viola and Henry. I loved watching these characters fall in love with each other. Both are in need of companionship and understanding and they find this with each other while struggling to reach the happy-ever-after they truly deserve.
What or who inspired you to become an author?
I’ve always loved creating stories. When I was in school, creative writing assignments were my favorite. I loved literature and art and writing a book one day just to say I’d done it, has been on my bucket list since I was fifteen. But it wasn’t something I ever thought I’d be able to make a living at. So I took the art route instead and ended up working in the fashion industry. But at the back of my mind, there was always that book – the one I dreamed of one day writing.
It wasn’t until I moved to Africa with my husband a few years later and became a stay at home mom while he ran an engineering company that I finally found the time. Initially, I started work on a historical fiction novel about Queen Margaret I of Denmark. But researching such a huge project was a challenge, partly because of where I was located and partly because I had two active toddlers to take care of as well.
But then one day, I visited a local bookshop and I purchased a copy of Romancing Mr. Bridgerton by Julia Quinn. I had no idea who Julia Quinn was at the time. I didn’t even realize how huge the romance novel industry was or that there were sub-genres – that there was a Regency romance genre. Reading Romancing Mr. Bridgerton opened my eyes to the possibilities that were out there. It wasn’t just a good story, but a humorous one as well. And I knew when I finished reading it that this was the sort of story I wanted to write.
What's on your top 5 list for the best books you've ever read?
In no particular order:
The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
River God by Wilbur Smith
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson (the complete series)
Romancing Mr. Bridgerton by Julia Quinn
The Physician by Noah Gordon
Say you’re the host of a literary talk show. Who would be your first guest? What would you want to ask?
That’s a tough question. I’m really not sure. Maybe Margaret George? I’d love to pick her brain on how to write a fictionalized biography. Maybe then I could actually get around to writing that book about Queen Margaret I.
What's your favorite thing about writing?
I love creating fictional worlds. They exist in my mind like real places I’ve actually been to, which probably sounds odd, but that’s how it is. Crafting stories in these worlds with characters of my own making is incredibly rewarding. I would hate having to give it up.
What is a typical day like for you?
I wake up at 7:00 to get the kids ready for school and then drop them off at the bus stop at 8:00. By 8:30 I’m ready to start work, at which point I put in about 4 hours of either writing, editing or promoting, depending on where I’m at in my publishing schedule. I then have lunch and spend the rest of the day on other tasks like household chores and things that need to be done outside my writing. I’ll usually hop online at some point in the afternoon to see what’s happening. The kids come home from school at 3:00 p.m. so I’ll make them some snacks before they have to do homework. At 5:00 I’ll start on dinner. We eat at 6:00 so the kids can have some time to relax before going to bed around 8:00. I’ve been doing story time with them since they were born and they don’t want to give up on that even though they’re over ten years old. Right now my eldest is reading the Percy Jackson books and my youngest is hooked on Diary of a Wimpy Kid, so I continue wherever they left off. Once they’re in bed my husband and I hang out downstairs. We listen to music, chat and watch whatever shows we’re following. Right now it’s The Enemy Within, Blacklist, Project Bluebook and Whiskey Cavalier. If I’m not too tired, I might do some reading before going to bed.
What scene in The Infamous Duchess was your favorite to write?
The one where Viola and Henry go to Hastings. It was so visual for me. I knew exactly what they were feeling and experiencing as they walked on the beach and allowed Viola’s dog, Rex, to race across the sand. There’s a freedom to both characters in this scene and it’s also the one in which they really decide to take a chance on more than friendship and give a serious relationship a go.
Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?
I believe that hard word and perseverance will eventually lead to success.
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Our biography and memoir reading list has had some exceptional new additions this month and we wanted to share some of the latest with you. Take a look at the insightful new novels from Shanaya Hassan Ali, Rodney Stamps & Paige Stamps, Meb Keflezighi, Olivia Newton-John and many more. Enjoy your new biography and memoir novels!
Release Date: March 12, 2019
In Nothing Is What It Appears To Be you will meet Shanaya. She is from Harlem New York and has struggled her whole life with what can be referred to as spiritual attacks from spirits or demons. These attacks often occurred during her sleep, where she was punched, choked and manipulated by invisible beings. Her mother knew she was not crazy. When she turned to a spiritual worker for assistance, the real story began.
Release Date: January 8, 2019
Rodney Stamps was told by his doctor that he had 90 days to live. So, along with his wife Paige, they embarked on a journey to find an alternative to chemotherapy and radiation. With a growing family and business, he didn't take their no-hope prognosis. In 90 Days to Live, you'll journey alongside Rodney and Paige as they found answers and beat cancer.
Release Date: March 19, 2019
On November 5, 2017, Meb Keflezighi ran his final marathon in New York City. His 26th marathon marked the end of an extraordinary career. He was the first person in history to win the New York City and Boston marathons as well as an Olympic medal. In 26 marathons, you will learn about the challenges, rewards, and outcomes of each race as you travel with Meb on his journey.
Release Date: March 19, 2019
First is the biography of Sandra Day O'Connor, America's first female Supreme Court justice. It includes exclusive interviews and first-time access to her archives as told by New York Times Bestselling Author Evan Thomas. This inspiring novel tells the story of a woman who loved her family, wanted to serve her country, and how she became the most powerful woman in the US.
Release Date: March 12, 2019
Don't Stop Believin' is the autobiography of musician, actress, and activist Olivia Newton-John. For over 50 years, Olivia has been an incredibly successful entertainer, from her start in movies Grease and Xanadu, to her Grammy Award-winning recording artist career. This novel also goes into her strength and courage of fighting cancer, as well as her advocacy work for charity.
Release Date: March 5, 2019
Karamo is the story of Queer Eye's culture expert, Karamo Brown. In this eye-opening memoir, Karamo discusses his bold approach to culture and reflects on his lifelong education. It explores the adversity he has had to overcome and the lessons he's learned through life.
Sandi Lynn is a New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author. If you love contemporary romance novels you've undoubtedly read some of her popular recent releases like One Night in Paris, Rewind, and the Redemption series. Stop fighting the temptation and check out these latest books to read if you like Sandi Lynn!
Release Date: March 14, 2019
Travis Zehler is one of the hottest cover models in romance fiction. Ordinary women like me shouldn't fall for beautiful men like him. But sometimes, we can't help ourselves. I met him at a book signing and haven't been able to stop thinking about him. So I asked him to go to a book signing with me and he said yes. Then my fantasies came true when he takes me to his bed.
Release Date: March 13, 2019
Choosing between them should be easy. One wants to protect me and love me. The other wants to destroy me and take my innocence. But what if I don't get to choose? The only way I can have one is when the other is dead. Blood will be spilled.
Release Date: March 19, 2019
All I wanted was family. But then a mistake cost me everything. If I want it back I will have to return home and protect one of the most stubborn women I've ever met. To do it I'll have to go undercover... as a manny. I didn't mean to fall for her. But I'll do anything to protect her and her kid.
Release Date: March 19, 2019
I've made a name for myself in the world of dirt late model racing. I have back-to-back championships and am looking to be the youngest driver in history to get a third. My career is my focus. That was until a redheaded bombshell drops into my life.
Release Date: March 19, 2019
I am a male escort. I have a mile-long waiting list and a pristine reputation. But after years of pleasing women all over the city, my love wand has decided to go on strike. It seems the only he wants is the one person I can never have... my best friend's younger sister.
Release Date: February 23, 2019
Everyone knows the name Homer Carnegie. Your kid has my e-trading card. Your husband sits up straight when I come on the screen knowing I'll save the day. Even your grandma wants my autograph. But women my age are the worst... or should that be the best? They line up at my door. Well, that was until the video.
Rhys Bowen is the New York Times Bestselling Author of historical mystery novels. Some of her popular recent releases include In Fairleigh Field, The Tuscan Child, and The Victory Garden. Not to mention the popular Molly Murphy Mysteries and A Royal Spyness Mystery series. If you're looking for some new historical mystery novels, we think you'll love these books to read if you like Rhys Bowen!
Release Date: February 26, 2019
England, 1952. Toby Whitby was not able to serve his country because of his poor eyesight. When the lawyer's boss is murdered, he inherits the case of a lifetime. An opportunity to reunite the Earl's daughter and her kidnapped child leads her to America. Soon, people connected to the case are turning up dead. It looks like there is far more to this case than the client is willing to share.
Release Date: February 19, 2019
London, 1852. Charles Lenox earned renown for solving a case that baffled Scotland Yard. Now he has been called upon by the Duke of Dorset for help. A painting has been stolen from the Duke's private study. But it isn't the missing painting he is concerned about. He believes they took the wrong painting and maybe back when they realize their mistake.
Release Date: April 9, 2019
Daniel Pitt is thrilled when his sister, Jemima, and her family return to London from the States for a visit. But he soon learns about an incident that occurred in Washington, D.C. One of Jemima's friends was assaulted and her necklace was stolen. It seems the perpetrator was a British diplomat stationed in America's capital. He has now fled to London for diplomatic immunity.
Release Date: March 10, 2019
Obsidian Murder is the seventh book in The Violet Carlyle Mysteries series... Violet, Victor, and their friends were planning on an evening of cocktails, bonfires, and fireworks. Instead, they found a dead body and something even more baffling... the obsidian blade. Tensions start to rise when they realize the murder wasn't the only game afoot during the celebration.
Release Date: March 5, 2019
India, 1921. Captain Sam Wyndham is battling an addiction to opium, which he must keep secret from the rest of the Calcutta police force. When he has to investigate a grisly murder, he realizes he's seen a victim killed in the same way before. It looks like a killer is on the loose. The problem for Sam is that the corpse was in an opium den. Revealing this could cost him his career.
Release Date: April 2, 2019
When Lord Ashworth is found brutally murdered, Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Devlin, is called in to help catch the killer. Seven months earlier, Sebastian suspected Ashworth of aiding one of his longtime friends in the kidnapping and murder of vulnerable street children. But he was never able to prove it.
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 Eileen Enwright Hodgetts, Harlan Coben, Clive Cussler, and many more. Enjoy your new mystery, thriller, and suspense novels. Happy reading!
