Set during the New Zealand Gold Rush of the 19th century, this novel follows Walter Moody, a prospector who stumbles upon a secret meeting of twelve local men who are trying to solve a series of unsolved crimes. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the crimes, which include a rich man's disappearance, a prostitute's attempted suicide, and a huge fortune found in a drunkard's cottage, are all interconnected. The novel's complex narrative structure, which uses astrology to organize its characters and events, adds another layer of intrigue to the story.

The book is a fantasy novel set in a world inspired by China's 20th century history. The protagonist, a war orphan, defies societal expectations by acing the empire-wide examination and earning a place at the prestigious military academy. However, her triumph is short-lived as she becomes embroiled in a violent conflict, which forces her to delve into the depths of her own magical abilities, inspired by shamanism. The story intertwines the brutal realities of war, mythology, and the exploration of power in a deeply divided society.

In a bustling city ruled by powerful crime families, the Kauls, who possess the rare ability to harness the magical powers of jade, struggle to maintain their control amidst rising tensions and rivalries. As the city teeters on the brink of chaos, the Kaul siblings find themselves caught in a dangerous web of betrayal, loyalty, and ambition, where the fate of their family and their city hangs in the balance. With vivid world-building and intricate character dynamics, "Jade City" is a gripping tale of power, honor, and the price of maintaining control.

This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the dynamics of capital accumulation and distribution over the last few centuries. The author argues that the rate of capital return in developed countries is persistently greater than the rate of economic growth, leading to high levels of wealth inequality. The book further suggests that the level of income inequality is not primarily a result of differences in individual labor income but rather the result of differences in capital ownership and the income derived from it. The author proposes a global tax on wealth to prevent soaring inequality.

"The Perfect Nanny" by Leïla Slimani is a psychological thriller that explores the relationship between a wealthy Parisian family and their nanny, Louise. The novel begins with the murder of the two children in the family by Louise, who had been their caregiver for several years. The story then delves into the events leading up to the tragic incident, revealing the complex dynamics between the family and Louise. Slimani's novel is a chilling portrayal of the blurred lines between love and obsession, and the dangers that can arise when those lines are crossed.

In this science fiction epic, humanity confronts an uncertain future as the universe teeters on the brink of destruction. The narrative weaves through time and space, following a complex tapestry of characters and civilizations as they grapple with advanced alien technologies, cosmic dilemmas, and philosophical quandaries. The story explores the depths of human ingenuity and the vastness of the cosmos, culminating in a profound examination of survival, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of life in the face of an unfathomable cosmos. With a blend of hard science fiction and imaginative speculation, the novel pushes the boundaries of human understanding and presents a grand vision of the ultimate fate of the universe.

"That Time of Year" delves into the unsettling experience of a Parisian teacher who, while vacationing with his family in a rural village, finds himself trapped when his wife and child mysteriously disappear. As he searches for them, the protagonist encounters the village's eerie customs and secretive inhabitants, who seem to be hiding a chilling truth. The novel explores themes of alienation, identity, and the haunting nature of memory, all set against a backdrop of creeping dread and psychological suspense.

"Un Attieké Pour Elgass" is a heartwarming and thought-provoking novel that follows the journey of Elgass, a young Guinean boy, as he navigates the challenges of growing up in a small village. Faced with poverty, cultural traditions, and the desire for a better life, Elgass embarks on a quest to fulfill his dreams and find his place in the world. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, the book explores themes of identity, resilience, and the power of human connection.

This novel delves into the emotional and physical journey of a heart transplant, beginning with a tragic accident that leaves a young man brain-dead and transitioning to the complex process of organ donation. Through a 24-hour timeline, the narrative explores the perspectives of the grieving family, the medical team involved in the transplant, and the recipient of the heart. The story is a poignant exploration of life, death, and the profound connections between humans, highlighting the medical, ethical, and emotional facets of organ donation. The author's meticulous attention to detail and lyrical prose bring to life the intricate realities of this life-saving procedure, making it a deeply moving and thought-provoking read.

This gripping novel follows the harrowing journey of a woman named Alex, who is kidnapped and imprisoned in a wooden cage by an unknown assailant. The story unfolds through a dual perspective, intertwining Alex's desperate fight for survival with the relentless pursuit of her captor by Commandant Camille Verhoeven, a diminutive but brilliant detective. As Verhoeven delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers layers of complexity surrounding Alex's past, revealing that she is no ordinary victim. The narrative escalates into a cat-and-mouse game filled with twists and turns, challenging the reader's perceptions of victimhood and vengeance, and culminating in a shocking and unforgettable climax.

In this intriguing mystery novel, a detective is drawn into a small French town's ancient legend when a woman seeks his help to clear her son's name from a murder accusation. The town of Ordebec is haunted by the story of the Ghost Riders, spectral figures who are said to appear and take away the wicked. As the detective delves deeper into the investigation, he finds himself entangled in a web of local superstitions, family secrets, and a series of puzzling events that challenge his rational beliefs. The narrative masterfully blends elements of folklore and crime investigation, leading to a suspenseful journey that questions the boundaries between myth and reality.

In this gripping psychological thriller, a high-stakes investigation unfolds in the French Pyrenees when the decapitated body of a horse is discovered hanging at the top of a cable car station. Commandant Martin Servaz, a seasoned but weary detective, is called in to tackle the case, which soon escalates as a serial killer with a disturbingly clinical approach to murder emerges. The trail leads Servaz to a nearby high-security psychiatric asylum, housing some of the country's most dangerous criminals, and forces him to confront his own demons. As the body count rises, the detective must unravel a complex web of clues that challenges his notions of justice and sanity in a race against time to stop the killer.

"The Hut Builder" is a captivating novel that follows the journey of a middle-aged man named Boden Blackwood, who retreats to the remote wilderness of New Zealand to build his dream hut. As he immerses himself in the challenging task of constructing the hut, Boden's solitude is interrupted by unexpected encounters with the locals, each bringing their own stories and struggles. Through these interactions, Boden discovers the profound impact that human connections can have on one's sense of purpose and belonging. With beautiful prose and a deep exploration of solitude and community, this novel takes readers on a reflective and moving journey of self-discovery.

"Stay True" by Hua Hsu is a collection of essays that explore the intersections of race, culture, and identity in America. Through personal anecdotes and cultural analysis, Hsu examines the ways in which popular culture and media shape our understanding of race and identity, and how individuals navigate these complex and often contradictory narratives. From the rise of Asian American representation in Hollywood to the legacy of Michael Jackson, "Stay True" offers a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the cultural landscape of America.

"Rangatira" is a historical fiction novel set in 19th century New Zealand. The story follows the journey of a young Maori chief, who, after being chosen as a rangatira (leader) of his tribe, embarks on a voyage to England. Through his experiences in the unfamiliar Western world, the protagonist grapples with cultural clashes, identity, and the complexities of colonialism. The narrative seamlessly weaves together Maori mythology, European history, and personal reflections, offering a thought-provoking exploration of indigenous perspectives in a changing world.

This gripping novel unfolds in a Chinese city where a vigilante killer, who goes by the name of Eumenides, is on a mission to exact justice on those who have escaped the legal system. The killer announces their intentions by sending death notices to the victims before carrying out the executions, challenging the police with the cunning and complexity of each crime. As the investigation unfolds, led by an elite police task force, the team uncovers disturbing links to a decade-old case. The narrative weaves through a maze of suspense, delving into themes of justice, revenge, and the moral ambiguity of taking the law into one's own hands. The story keeps readers on the edge of their seats, blending intricate plotting with a deep exploration of the characters' pasts and motives.

"The Big Music" is a profound and lyrical novel that explores the life of a Scottish bagpiper and his obsession with composing a piece of music that captures the essence of his family's history and the rugged landscape of the Highlands. Through a series of interwoven narratives, the book delves into themes of love, loss, and the power of music to transcend time and connect generations. With its rich prose and evocative descriptions, the novel immerses readers in a mesmerizing tale of creativity, heritage, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

"The Wish Child" is a powerful and haunting novel that explores the lives of two children, Sieglinde and Erich, growing up in Nazi Germany. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the story delves into the complexities of their friendship and the impact of the Nazi regime on their lives. Through vivid and evocative prose, the author skillfully captures the innocence and resilience of children in a time of darkness and uncertainty, while also shedding light on the moral dilemmas faced by ordinary individuals during a tumultuous period in history.

The novel explores the complex layers of identity, belonging, and the legacy of colonialism through the story of a French-Algerian family across three generations. It delves into the life of a young woman who grapples with her grandfather's painful past as a harki, an Algerian who fought for the French during the Algerian War of Independence. As she uncovers her family's history, she confronts the silence and trauma that have shaped their experiences of dislocation and cultural disconnection. The narrative weaves between past and present, revealing the enduring impact of historical events on individual lives and the struggle to reconcile with one's heritage in a modern world.

"The New Animals" by Pip Adam is a thought-provoking and unsettling novel that explores the lives of a group of young adults navigating the complexities of modern society. Set in a futuristic world where societal norms and expectations have drastically changed, the story follows Carla, a young woman trying to find her place amidst the chaos. As she encounters various characters and situations, the book delves into themes of identity, relationships, and the blurred boundaries between humans and animals. With its raw and evocative prose, "The New Animals" challenges readers to question the constructs of society and the essence of humanity itself.

Set in 1950s New Zealand, "This Mortal Boy" tells the gripping true story of Albert "Paddy" Black, a young Irish immigrant who finds himself caught up in a tragic turn of events. When Paddy is accused of murder, his fate rests in the hands of the justice system and the public's perception of him as an outsider. As the trial unfolds, the novel explores themes of prejudice, class division, and the power of love and hope in the face of adversity.

"Auē" is a powerful and heartbreaking novel that explores the lives of three individuals in a small New Zealand town. It delves into the themes of family, loss, and resilience as the characters navigate their troubled pasts and search for redemption. With vivid storytelling and raw emotions, the book offers a profound examination of the human spirit and the impact of trauma on individuals and communities.

"Bug Week & Other Stories" is a collection of short stories that explores the complexities of human relationships and the impact of everyday occurrences on individuals. From a woman's obsession with bugs to a couple's struggle with infertility, the book delves into various themes such as love, loss, and the search for identity. With its vivid storytelling and diverse characters, the collection offers a captivating glimpse into the intricacies of human nature.

"Kurangaituku" by Whiti Hereaka is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that delves into the life of a young Maori girl named Te Arepa. Set in New Zealand, the story follows Te Arepa as she navigates the challenges of her cultural identity, family dynamics, and the impact of colonization. Through her journey, the book explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of storytelling. With its rich cultural backdrop and engaging narrative, "Kurangaituku" offers a compelling exploration of identity and the complexities of the human experience.

"The Axeman's Carnival" is a gripping historical novel set in 1918 New Orleans, during the height of the Spanish flu pandemic. As the city grapples with fear and uncertainty, a serial killer known as the Axeman terrorizes its inhabitants. The story follows three main characters—a jazz musician, a young girl, and a detective—as their lives intertwine amidst the chaos. With vivid descriptions and a suspenseful narrative, the book explores themes of resilience, identity, and the power of music in the face of darkness.