From heartwarming romances to hard-hitting social issues, October’s LibraryReads selections cover a range of genres and are sure to be at the top of every patron’s to-read list. So, make sure to have the audios on hand so your patrons can enjoy these titles right away without having to be on the holds list!
View the full list of October LibraryReads picks and check out our LibraryReads Make Great Listens collection to see all of our BOT LibraryReads picks since the program began. Now, see why our October BOT LibraryReads picks are must-listens.
THE PROPOSAL
By Jasmine Guillory
Read by Janina Edwards
LISTEN TO A CLIP: THE PROPOSAL
LibraryReads review: “A disastrous public wedding proposal results in a chance meeting between Nik and Carlos. What follows is a delightfully humorous and sweet story about two people falling for each other while remaining seemingly unaware of their blossoming romance. The book sets itself apart by portraying a self-aware, feminist woman who enjoys positive relationships with female friends. An engaging and upbeat multicultural romance.” —LaNiesha Bowles, Boston Public Library, Boston, MA
Why try the audio? Janina Edwards also narrated Jasmine Guillory’s previous novel, The Wedding Date, and garnered rave reviews. AudioFile said, “Edwards fully expresses all the sassiness, boldness, and romance of this story.” There’s no doubt that she’ll bring all of that and more to this equally delightful and romantic second novel.
Praise for THE PROPOSAL:
“Full of warmth, quick banter, girlfriend group-texts, and food—so much good food!— as well as a multicultural cast and a strong L.A. setting, Guillory’s follow-up to The Wedding Date should earn just as much buzz as the first…From the cringeworthy opening scene to the sweet mutual grovel at the end, The Proposal will leave readers full of good-book feelings.” —Booklist
“There is so much to relate to and throughout the novel, there is a sharp feminist edge. Loved this one, and you will too.” —Roxane Gay, New York Times bestselling author
“Guillory is a deft hand at creating likable, memorable characters and free-flowing conversations…A charming book for the modern romance lover.” —Kirkus
By Josie Silver
Read by Charlie Anson & Eleanor Tomlinson
LISTEN TO A CLIP:ONE DAY IN DECEMBER
LibraryReads review: “An enjoyable page-turner, with a romance that begins with a chance connection at a bus stop and brews in secret over a number of years. More literary romance than chick-lit, this title would be a good choice for readers who enjoy books by Meg Donohue or Erica Bauermeister.” —Marlyn Beebe, Long Beach Public Library, Long Beach, CA
Why try the audio? Since the book is told from both Laurie and Jack’s perspectives, it’s only natural for actors Charlie Anson and Eleanor Tomlinson (you may recognize her from Masterpiece’s series Poldark) to both narrate this charming romance. Through missteps and missed connections over the course of the story, Anson and Tomlinson embody the characters and bring them to life—and into your heart.
Praise for ONE DAY IN DECEMBER:
“Silver writes with verve and charm in this debut.” —Booklist
“Readers who enjoy contemporary romance will root for Laurie and Jack as they work through laughter-through-tears experiences and toward a happily-ever-after worth fighting for.” —Library Journal
“Josie Silver writes with a warmth so palpable her characters sneak their way into your heart and stay for a long time…The perfect book to get lost in this holiday season.” —Jill Santopolo, author of The Light We Lost
By Tana French
Read by Paul Nugent
LISTEN TO A CLIP:THE WITCH ELM
LibraryReads review: “This standalone novel has all the things readers love about the Dublin Murder Squad books–well developed characters, exquisite plotting, and deep explorations of human nature. Toby leads a charmed life with an idyllic childhood, a good family, a loving girlfriend, and promising prospects. But a vicious attack changes everything. Atmospheric, twisty, and perfect for readers who like Gillian Flynn or Kate Atkinson.” —Laura Bovee, Chicopee Public Library, Chicopee, MA
Why try the audio? Actor Paul Nugent’s narration is fantastic. His lilting Irish accent draws you into French’s world, and his characterizations are engaging. You’ll want to finish this audiobook in one sitting as the dark, twisted crime story unfolds.
Praise for THE WITCH ELM:
“French’s slow-burning, character-driven examination of male privilege is timely, sharp, and meticulously crafted. Recommended for her legions of fans, as well as any readers of literary crime fiction.” —Library Journal, starred review
“French, author of the award-winning Dublin Murder Squad series, delivers a spellbinding stand-alone novel carefully crafted in her unique, darkly elegant prose style.” —Booklist, starred review
“The story is compelling, and French is deft in unraveling this book’s puzzles…Psychologically intense.” —Kirkus
By Jodi Picoult
Read by Bahni Turpin & Jodi Picoult
LISTEN TO A CLIP:A SPARK OF LIGHT
LibraryReads review: “This harrowing and insightful novel unwinds backwards in time over the course of a day during a tense hostage situation at a Mississippi women’s clinic and is told through multiple points of view: the gunman, the hostage negotiator, patients, clinic staff, and a right to life advocate. All sides of the abortion issue are explored with compassion through the characters’ stories, helping readers empathize and connect. Fans of Picoult’s issue-driven novels will not be disappointed.”
—Catherine Coyne, Mansfield Public Library, Mansfield, MA
Why try the audio? Recent Audie Award-winner for Best Female Narrator Bahni Turpin narrates this new book from popular author Jodi Picoult (Picoult reads her author’s note in the production). Turpin’s nuanced and expert narration beautifully gives voice to Picoult’s many complex characters. You’ll experience this harrowing story even more fully.
Praise for A SPARK OF LIGHT:
“Picoult delivers another riveting yarn about a hot-button issue…This topical, daringly told, and suspenseful tale is sure to be another Picoult best-seller generating numerous requests.”
—Booklist, starred review
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