I wanted to write a controlled, intense, strange, sensual, truthful novel set firmly in a genre I’m increasingly thinking of as wonder. You can watch a romcom where someone is covered with bees and they’re terrified, and you’re laughing, so their experience is not the same as your experience. Likewise, you can be watching a horror film, and they think they’re having a normal Monday, and you know better. That’s where the horror happens.
― Maggie Stiefvater, Interview, The Bookseller
What booksellers are saying about The Listeners
- Offering an unusual perspective on America’s homefront during WWII, Stiefvater’s adult debut tells the story of a luxury Appalachian hotel employed by the US government to detain Axis diplomats. With a hypnotic heroine, a taut romance, and a speculative twist, this is a fascinating read.
― Matilda McNeely, Little Shop of Stories in Decatur, Georgia | BUY
- This beautifully-written novel is A Gentleman in Moscow meets the Grand Budapest Hotel, with a touch of espionage, some romance, and even a bit of magical realism. Stiefvater takes her inspiration from a real historical event (Axis diplomats detained at a West Virginia luxury hotel during WW2). Her characters are the highlight of the story. So many fascinating personalities populate this book. Steifvater peels back their layers slowly and keeps us guessing about the characters’ backstories, alliances and motivations. It all works beautifully to create an immensely readable and enjoyable book that readers will love immersing themselves in.
― Amanda Grell, Pearl’s Books in Fayetteville, Arkansas | BUY
- Maggie Stiefvater never disappoints! Expect a strange atmosphere, complex and highly motivated characters, moral dilemmas, and beautiful writing. There is a reason why I will read everything Stiefvater puts out, and it’s because every time I read or reread one of her books, I’m reminded of her pure talent and skilled writing. Highly recommend this one!
― Cameron Rogers, Main Street Books in Davidson, North Carolina
| BUY
About Maggie Stiefvater
Maggie Stiefvater the New York Times bestselling author of the Shiver trilogy, the Raven Cycle, and The Scorpio Races, among dozens of other YA fantasy novels. Her books have sold over five million copies around the world. She lives in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia with her husband and their two children.
