A beautifully illustrated story about Elaine the chicken who loves all the art in her city. A great reminder to find creativity in the things that make us our own selves.
Elaine by Anden Wilder, (List Price: $18.99, Knopf Books for Young Readers, 9780593906071, October 2026)
Reviewed by Claire, River & Hill Books in Rome, GA
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Sarah Dessen is back! And just like I did in my teenage years, I tore through Change of Plans and couldn’t wait to see Finley’s journey after things fall apart post high school graduation. A wonderful coming-of-age story perfect for the OG Sarah Dessen fans and new readers as well.
Change of Plans by Sarah Dessen, (List Price: $21.99, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 9798347108770, May 2026)
Reviewed by Claire, River & Hill Books in Rome, GA
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A delightful story about Murphy the dog and how he spends his day waiting on his best human friend to come home from school. He gets up to some funny antics and has to wait, wait, wait. Would make a great story time book!
I Am Murphy and I Am Waiting by Dan Yaccarino, (List Price: $18.99, Henry Holt and Co. (BYR), 9781250424280, August 2026)
Reviewed by Claire, River & Hill Books in Rome, GA
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A fascinating look at the American Navy officers and their spouses stationed in La Maddalena, Italy in the early 1970s. Eileen navigates her new life in Italy as a newlywed and a Navy wife, while also immersing herself in the Italian town with the locals. And when she finds herself attracted to local journalist Teo, her life gets pulled in different directions. An engrossing story that was extremely well-researched. Definitely looking forward to recommending this to customers this summer!
The Half Life by Rachel Beanland, (List Price: $30, Simon & Schuster, 9781668069134, July 2026)
Reviewed by Claire, River & Hill Books in Rome, GA
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A super swoony and sexy romance between two rival meteorologists, plus best friend’s brother? Say less! Quincy and Sebastian have antagonized each other for years, but when Sebastian is back in town for the summer and hurricane season, sparks really fly! If you love banter and rivals to lovers, In In Stormy Weather is the perfect summer romance for you!
In Stormy Weather by Chelsea Curto, (List Price: $19, Atria Books, 9781668217436, July 2026)
Reviewed by Claire, River & Hill Books in Rome, GA
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A little bit historical fiction, a little magical realism, and throw in some grief for good measure, and you’ve got The White Octopus Hotel. If you enjoyed The Ministry of Time last year, this is the book for you.
The White Octopus Hotel by Alexandra Bell, (List Price: $19, Del Rey, 9798217091799, October 2025)
Reviewed by Claire McWhorter, River & Hill Books in Rome, Georgia
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Amos McGee is back in this winter picture book! Amos is so excited about the first snow, so he knits all of his animal friends various accessories to prepare for the cold. A delightful and heartwarming read that I can’t wait to read to my kids for winters to come!
A Snow Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead, (List Price: $19.99, Roaring Brook Press, 9781250324733, September 2025)
Reviewed by Claire McWhorter, River & Hill Books in Rome, Georgia
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Sarah MacLean strikes again! Her first contemporary fiction novel gives us her signature sexy romance in the midst of ultra-rich, dysfunctional family dynamics after the death of a billionaire patriarch. I couldn’t put it down, but I also wanted to savor every moment of it. A perfect summer read that I’ll be recommending to everyone.
These Summer Storms by Sarah MacLean, (List Price: $30, Ballantine Books, 9780593972250, July 2025)
Reviewed by Claire McWhorter, River & Hill Books in Rome, Georgia
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Fans of Annie Jones’ podcast and The Bookshelf in Thomasville, Georgia, will love getting a little peek behind the scenes, but even for those unfamiliar with Annie’s story, this collection of essays is deeply relatable. Perfect for those who stayed in their hometowns, for those who decided to lead a quieter life, and especially for those who have struggled with their faith. This is a book I will be gifting to so many people in my life.
Ordinary Time by Annie B. Jones, (List Price: $26.99, HarperOne, 9780063411272, April 2025)
Reviewed by Claire McWhorter, River & Hill Books in Rome, Georgia
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