By Heidi Simmons
It is that time of year when we turn back our clocks and loose our sunlight an hour earlier. As much as I miss the long, warm days, I do love the coziness of Fall. With the darkness setting in by five o’clock, there seems to be more time to read. Curling up with a good book is one of the best ways to relax and welcome the season.
I find that engaging with a fictional story fits the mellow seasonal mood. Here are a variety of fiction suggestions to get you thinking about how to enjoy your time after the sun sets, the world quiets down and it’s just you and a book.
Chances Are by Richard Russo (Knoff, 320 pages)
This is one of my favorite authors. In this story, three college chums meet on Martha’s Vineyard for a weekend get-away where they get to know each other in ways they hadn’t before. Forty years ago, a woman they all knew and loved disappeared, and now they are finally ready to talk about what happened.
The Testaments by Margaret Atwood (Nan A. Talese, 432 pages)
Atwood is more popular than ever! This story follows The Handmaid’s Tale where the Republic of Gilead is still in power. It’s fifteen years later and the next generation of women may not be so easy to manage as the regime loses its grip.
The Giver of Stars By Jojo Moyes (Pamela Dorman, 400 pages)
This is the author of Big Little Lies. The story is set in a small Kentucky town during the 1940s where an oppressed woman finds a fulfilling life when she gets involved with a program delivering books to those in rural areas. She discovers new friendships and a self-esteem she didn’t think were possible. This book is based on a true story.
American Spy by Lauren Wilkinson (Random House, 292 pages)
Set during the Cold War, a young, black, female intelligence officer wants to prove herself, so when the opportunity to become part of a team to undermine a Communist revolutionary, she goes for it. But, serving her country comes at a formidable cost. The story is inspired by true events.
The Raven Tower by Ann Leckie (Orbit, 432 pages)
Fantasy fiction is a great escape. This award-winning Sci-Fi author delivers a tale about a world where the gods intervene and dwell among humans. The Raven god watches over his prosperous kingdom while protecting its deepest secrets. But when a newcomer arrives, it challenges the relationship between deity and humans. I like that Leckie explores our relationship with “God.”
Gingerbread by Helen Oyeyemi (Riverhead, 272 pages)
The aroma of fresh Gingerbread – for me — is a fragrance of Fall. And, in this novel, the author uses the mystery and history of gingerbread to tell a magical story of a mother and daughter relationship as they cope with the world, which they see quite differently than their community and neighbors.
There are so many wonderful books and outstanding storytellers. I excited thinking about starting a new book, and am thrilled for you dear reader to find a fun fall read! Turn back your clock and pick up a new book!
