1. We Are Not Like Them by Christine Pride and Jo Piazza (Contemporary Fiction) - This was an interesting story about a complicated friendship between Riley and Jen. The book deals with multiple contemporary issues, and I would say that it dealt with them sensitively. I think it really tackles well the complexities behind a close interracial friendship, and how miscommunications can arise in that relationship, since each person is coming from a different background and perspective. The story was emotional, compelling, and readable. I read the majority during a long car ride. I think some of the most poignant part of points were scenes with Tamara, a mother who had lost her son. Seeing her grief on the page really rounded out the story.
2. Shoutin' in the Fire by Dante Stewart (Memoir) - Stewart is a great writer, and this is a powerful memoir. The book is a mix of personal stories about his life, and him sharing a message. This story focuses on faith, race, and being American. The author has a lot to say about these topics. He is very raw and honest in his writing. He confronts things he did or said in the past that he no longer agrees with. Stewart's story is complex.
3. The Love Songs of W.E.B. Du Bois by Honoree Fanonne Jeffers (Literary Fiction) - This is a masterful work of literature, topping out at almost 800 pages, that deserves to be read widely. I spent several weeks with this book, giving it its due time, and not rushing through it. This story covers a wide scope of history, and takes the time to deeply delve fully into every character. I would say I was most invested in the present day storyline of Ailey, and really enjoyed the detours in her mom and her sister's lives as well. Some of the historical sections had me fully invested and some of them would drag occasionally. But I think they were all worthy of being in the book. Overall, I loved this story, and I think it deserved to make it onto the National Book Award shortlist this year, though it did not.
4. Well Matched by Jen DeLuca (Romance) - This was another enjoyable read in the Renaissance Faire romance series. Mitch and April have great chemistry, and I enjoyed the fake dating trope in the story as well. Like many romances, there were some miscommunications, but I enjoyed the journey. I also really liked reading April's relationships with her sister, Emily (from Well Met), and her daughter, Caitlin, as she sends her off to college.
5. Payback's a Witch by Lana Harper (Fantasy) - This was a fun, Halloween-themed read, perfect for this time of the year. The story was mostly light and fun, with some serious parts relating to commitment to relationships and finding what you want in life. The book centers around a magical competition. I've seen comparisons to the tournament from the Goblet of Fire and I would say that those comparisons fit. I enjoyed the relationships and the small-town cast of characters.
