A Novel Idea: Books for break

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There are a lot of things going on, and everyone is probably stressed, but amidst all the commotion, make sure to take care of yourself. First and foremost, try to take a break from schoolwork for the one week designated for spring break; that’s what it’s there for! Check in with your friends, and spend time with them and your family when you are able to. A great avenue for relaxation and escapism are books, so whether you’re an avid reader and was going to take this time to catch up on your books, or you’re tired of trying to find a new Netflix show to watch, here are some three new releases you should check out. Before you know it, we’ll be back. 

“The Midnight Lie” by Marie Rutkoski 


“The Midnight Lie”.  Photo courtesy of     goodreads.com

“The Midnight Lie”. Photo courtesy of goodreads.com

This is first on my list because after “The Winner’s Curse” trilogy, anything Rutkoski writes is a priority on my “To be Read” list. She just announced “Real Easy,” a “dark and twisty and feminist” thriller set in the world of a strip club. What’s not to love?  

Some of this dark and twistiness comes into play with “The Midnight Lie,” “an epic LGBTQ romantic fantasy” that takes place in the world of her original trilogy. Nirrim is considered a second-class citizen to the High Kith, but when she encounters Sid, a traveler who brings news from outside their strictly regulated society, she has to reconsider what she knows about her world. With magic, a sexy and sly stranger (representation for the win!) and secrets abouning, I am beyond excited to pick this book up. Rutkoski’s prose, characterization and relationship development are top-notch, so I’m looking forward to a stellar review in the near future. Expectations are high. 

“The Kingdom of Back” by Marie Lu 

Coming out on the same day was this historical fantasy that’s been years in the making for Lu. Apparently, it’s unlike anything she’s ever written, so I am intrigued to read it. She explores the story of the forgotten sister of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Nannerl. As a woman in 18th century Europe, composing is forbidden, despite her talent. When a mysterious stranger, who likely has magic, makes an offer to change her fate, Nannerl can’t help but get involved. Historical fiction is not what I usually go for, but Lu has a way incorporating multiple genres, like fantasy, into her work, so I’m interested to see how that plays out in this book. 

“Bone Crier’s Moon” by Kathryn Purdie 


“Bone Criers”.  Photo courtesy of    goodreads.com

“Bone Criers”. Photo courtesy of goodreads.com

I’m going to be honest, this was a case of love at first sight. Charlie Bowater, who illustrated the gorgeous cover of this fantasy series debut, has crafted some of the most beautiful art for other popular fantasy novels I’ve read. But once I heard what this book was about, I was even more intrigued.  

Purdie’s story features the mythical “Bone Criers,” whose duty is to ferry the spirits of the dead into either the “Night Heavens” of the goddess Elara or the Underworld of the god Tyrus. A strong convent of women featured in a book always gives it strong points, but with some cool worldbuilding, including the Bone Crier’s rite of passage to kill their true love, I know this book is bound to entertain. 


Hollie Lao is a staff writer and the social media manager for The Daily Campus. She can be reached via email at hollianne.lao@uconn.edu.

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