John Staughton, Senior Reviewer

The dark side of easy money steps out of the shadows in Among Those You Know by Joshua Valentine, a gripping urban thriller that tackles key issues of the LGBT community, the overcoming of childhood trauma, and the friends who become our chosen family. Penned with maturity and tact, along with plenty of attitude and authentic dialogue, Valentine captures the struggle and fortitude of communities that are often ignored under the cover of darkness. Boasting visceral language, a thoroughly unpredictable plot, and richly developed characters, Among Those You Know is a challenging and entrancing read.

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The Adventures of Rug Bug: The Revolution by Kay M. Bates is a lovingly penned book for young readers about friendship, morality, and standing up for what you believe in. Rug Bug is a charming little hero, and the vivid world that Bates creates is sharp and smart. Accompanied by clever footnotes and overflowing with creatively epic descriptions of this miniature world, the story is amusing and entertaining throughout. Though this fast-paced book could use the occasional grammatical polish, it boasts relatable themes and thoughtful parallels to the real world, for a highly successful work of children’s fiction.

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In the dangerously dystopian world of Thrash by author Jason Palmer, Harry is a hard-drinking anti-hero that can take a beating better than anyone in town, a science experiment begrudgingly squaring off against the city’s resident villain, Brian Thurgold. This book has the bitter edge of “Watchmen” and the darkness of “Gotham,” along with gleefully acidic humor from the protagonist that counters the more graphic and gruesome moments. Palmer’s savagely casual writing style makes this truly strange read a violent delight.

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