Kirkus Star
THE KIRKUS STAR
Awarded to Books of Exceptional Merit

BROWSE BOOK REVIEWS




New & Notable Fiction: February 2012


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Cover art for QUEEN WITHOUT A CROWN
FICTION
Released: Feb. 1, 2012

"Fans of Buckley's long string of clever historical suspensers featuring the resourceful Ursula (The Siren Queen, 2004, etc.) won't be disappointed."
A Lady of the Bedchamber for Queen Elizabeth I wishes to give up her role as a spy, but circumstances force her back into action. Read full book review >
Cover art for RAGNAROK
FICTION
Released: Feb. 1, 2012

"Though the cadences are like those of a fairy tale, a narrative seen through the eyes of a child, the chilling conclusion is not."
A multilayered retelling of the end of the world from Norse mythology, framed by the award-winning British novelist's analysis of how myth relates to her own work. Read full book review >
Cover art for HEFT
FICTION
Released: Feb. 1, 2012

"Only a hardhearted reader will remain immune to Kel's troubled charm."
In musician/novelist Moore's bifurcated second novel (The Words of Every Song, 2007), the two first-person narrations--from a housebound, grossly overweight former literature professor and a teenager in crisis over his future--never converge although they eventually intersect. Read full book review >
Cover art for DRIFTING HOUSE
FICTION
Released: Feb. 6, 2012

"Lee writes with a clarity and simplicity of style that discloses deep and conflicting emotions about cultural identity."
Affecting stories about the conflicts between Korean and American culture. Read full book review >
Cover art for NORUMBEGA PARK
FICTION
Released: Feb. 7, 2012

"This is a superb novel on every level, for Giardina fully fleshes out his characters as he scrutinizes their personal, family and social lives."
A graceful novel of an American family struggling to find identity and spiritual meaning in an age resistant--and even hostile--to their fumbling attempts. Read full book review >
Cover art for LEFT FOR DEAD
FICTION
Released: Feb. 7, 2012

"Loyal fans and newcomers alike will be glad to join feisty Ali (Fatal Error, 2011, etc.) in her latest adventure."
An ex-detective is never too busy to help out a friend. Read full book review >