Here at The Clarion we love our books and folks around campus tend to agree. But there’s simply not enough time to read them all or keep up with every new release. That’s where we come in. After carefully perusing multiple lists and TBRs, we’ve compiled the most exciting book releases for the month of August for your reading pleasure.
The author of the best-selling Expanse series is back. Photo Credit: Orbit
The Mercy of Gods by James A. Corey
Corey’s Expanse series of novels were easily among the best sci-fi of their time. So, to call expectations for “The Mercy of Gods” stratospheric would be an understatement. Part of what Corey has dubbed “The Captive’s War”, the book is already making waves. Judging from its blurb the novel looks like another must-read space opera.
Reyes Jr.’s collection explores the experience of Central American migrants and their communities. Photo Credit: Mariner Books
There is a Rio Grande in Heaven by Ruben Reyes Jr.
Sometimes the best way to really get a feel for an author is through their short stories. That is but one reason why Reyes Jr.’s collection of short fiction is so exciting. Another reason are the many heavy-hitting writers singing its praises, a list that includes Pulitzer Winner Héctor Tobar and New York Times best-seller Xochitl Gonzalez. “There is a Rio Grande in Heaven” aims to subvert the expectations many have for migration literature and provide a new voice for the Central American experience. We’ll certainly be giving it a read soon.
This retelling of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy shows events from the Lady Macbeth’s perspective. Photo Credit: Del Rey
Retellings are all the rage and they tend to work when offering unique perspectives on well-known stories. The often vilified Lady Macbeth has fascinated theatre hounds and fans of The Bard for generations. Reid gives her top billing this time around by telling the story from her perspective. It definitely is an intriguing premise that could end up on many ‘best of’ lists by the end of the year.
Hall’s new novel comes with a ringing endorsement from multi-award winning author Ann Leckie. Photo Credit: Torbookdotcom
Asunder by Kerstin Hill
As summaries go, “Asunder” has a heck of a blurb. Eldritch entities, a mixture of fantasy and horror, as well as a journey led by two interesting main characters are just a few of the things it advertises. Publisher Tordotcom is no genre slouch either. Add this to your TBR if you like your fantasy with a pinch of the arcane.
Did we miss one of your favs? Let us know on social media!
Ismael David Mujahid, Executive Editor