News

Dragon Chica's First Review

2010-09-27T16:30:00.003-04:00

DRAGON CHICA by May-lee Chai just received its first review!

Publishers Weekly says:

In Chai's coming-of-age novel, 11-year-old Nea, who survived the Khmer Rouge with her scrappy mother, beautiful older sister, and younger siblings, leaves Texas for Nebraska to work in the Chinese restaurant owned by her auntie and uncle. But the miracle she'd hoped for is crushed upon arrival: auntie and uncle, once wealthy, are now struggling, and the locals are more bigoted than they were in Texas. It's the 1980s and the Japanese takeover of the U.S. auto industry looms large; though Nea is Chinese and Cambodian, she's still Asian, and treated as "other." Her dour life is occasionally broken by evocatively disquieting, often painful, dreams, memories, and myths. Chai previously mined her own experience for the memoir, Hapa Girl, and the racism she has described enduring informs Nea and her family's experiences. But they are survivors, and as Nea matures she increasingly uses her wits for her own advancement, forging a path to college.

Below Zero Comes Out On Top

2010-09-21T16:39:00.002-04:00

We're pleased to tell you that BELOW ZERO by C.J. Box won the Mountains & Plains Independent Booksellers Association Regional Book Award for Fiction! The award will be presented at the Regional Awards Breakfast in Denver on Friday the 24th. Congratulations, Chuck!

An Idiot Is Born

2010-09-20T11:22:00.006-04:00

Doug Harris threw a heck of a launch party last week for his novel YOU COMMA IDIOT, even attracting the attention of CTV! Click here to see their coverage of the party and interview with Doug.

The good reviews are already starting to come in! "Some critics have complained that Canadian novels don't reflect the realities of contemporary urban life. For anyone who shares that view, Montrealer Doug Harris's debut will be a welcome antidote," exclaims the Winnipeg Free Press.

Pencil-Pushers and Ink-Splotches says:

I could sit here and feed you some hype about this novel telling you it's the next big thing. I could do that. And you know what, I'd be right, as you would be to believe what I tell you. It's rare that a novel comes along that has me wanting to share it with people before I've even finished reading it. (I actually carried it around the grocery with me yesterday and showed it to a few people.)

Buried in Print predicts:

You’ll forgive a story that completely upsets your reader’s expectations because you admire a writer who introduces you to a narrator who makes you want good things for them, even when half the time you’ve spent in their company you’ve wanted to slap them upside the head. (Or more than half the time, nearly all the time, you’ve wanted to do that.) And you end up loving You comma Idiot despite yourself. You think that’s fantastic.

Salty Ink chimes in:

You Comma Idiot, a novel in second-person, puts the fun back in books and is sure to be one of the fall’s most entertaining reads. You’ll bust your guts laughing and you might even crack a rib. More importantly, all humour aside, Harris is great writer. There is a praise-worthy attention to detail here, and that’s what makes it the pageturning accomplishment it is.

Even the book trailer itself is attracting attention!

A reviewer on Area203, a marketing agency blog, talks about how much she dislikes book trailers, proclaiming them to be "one more nail in the coffin of the printed word, despite the product they’re promoting." However, she confesses that the trailer for YOU COMMA IDIOT is the only one she's ever seen that convinced her to buy the book. Looks like Doug's experience producing TV commercials and convincing people to buy things is paying off! (We hope it convinces you to check out the book, too!)

This chose it as their trailer of the week, commenting that "it sounds like a darkly hilarious Nick Hornby-esque romp about a slacker without a life plan, also known as: Men I’ve Dated In My Life." While we can't comment on the reviewer's erstwhile lovers and their resemblance to the novel's protagonist, we can say that his or her assessment of the novel is spot-on!

Enter The Dragon

2010-09-15T15:15:00.004-04:00

We're excited to tell you that Publishers Weekly recently featured DRAGON CHICA by May-lee Chai in their roundup of fall's Indie Sleepers!

Gemma Media will publish the book next month, and to celebrate, they're throwing a heck of a launch party in San Francisco. Head to Books, Inc. on Wednesday, October 13th, at 7p.m. for a reading by May-lee and a performance by the fabulous Cambodian pop band The Like Me's!

You can also see May-lee on Saturday, October 23rd, at the Southern California Independent Booksellers Association's Authors Feast and Trade Show in L.A., at Eastwind Books of Berkeley on Saturday, November 13th, at 3p.m., and at the Tattered Cover in Denver on Thursday, November 18th, at 7:30p.m.

A Thrilling Interview With Doug Magee

2010-09-13T15:41:00.002-04:00

International Thriller Writers recently interviewed Doug Magee. Click here to learn what inspired him to write NEVER WAVE GOODBYE and what his next novel will be about!

Probably The Only Time A Sportsman Will Approve Of A Poacher

2010-08-24T10:42:00.004-04:00

The Maine Sportsman, the biggest outdoor publication in New England, recently raved about THE POACHER'S SON, calling it "an exceptional read, includes great characters and a terrific plot...a page turner for sure."

The reviewer, who happens to be the Executive Director of the Sportsman Alliance of Maine, calls Doiron's depiction of a Maine game warden "spot on" and "carefully and accurately drawn." That means a lot coming from an expert!

He concludes, "Although Doiron agrees he’s lucky to get his first novel published, you’ll be the lucky one if you buy it and read it." We couldn't agree more!

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing A Novel

2010-08-20T09:58:00.003-04:00

Here at ARLA headquarters, we're very excited about Doug Harris's hilarious debut, YOU COMMA IDIOT, which Goose Lane Editions will publish next month.

Click here to read their interview with Doug. Despite his book's title, he actually has some pretty smart things to say about the process of writing one's first novel.

You can also check out the book trailer on YouTube!

Another Reader Falls In Love With The Poacher's Son

2010-08-05T16:52:00.002-04:00

PopMatters recently raved about Paul Doiron's debut novel, calling it "pure, unadulterated literary suspense. Beautifully crafted and perfectly paced, it makes you tuck your feet up under you while reading, and occasionally look nervously over your shoulder—just to make certain no one is there."

The reviewer concludes, "The Poacher's Son is a great read with a fantastic ending. The best part: it’s not really over. Doiron plans on writing a series of books featuring Mike Bowditch. I’m looking forward to the next one."

NPR Loves Dennis Lehane's Killer Thrillers

2010-08-05T11:50:00.003-04:00

Recently, NPR listeners voted on their favorite thrillers of all time. One member of the advisory panel for the Top 100 Killer Thrillers project was very impressed with their choices, saying "The vast majority of these are very good books or classics...Thomas Harris, Dennis Lehane, Patricia Highsmith -- this audience knows good writing."

We at ARLA certainly agree! Three of Dennis Lehane's books made the list, putting him in third place with Michael Crichton and Stieg Larsson, behind only Lee Child and Stephen King!

Bring Your Own Mad Dog

2010-07-27T11:08:00.002-04:00

Paul Doiron will be reading on August 11 at 12pm at the Portland Public Library as part of their Brown Bag Lecture Series.

Never Wave Goodbye Had Her At Hello!

2010-07-21T11:02:00.003-04:00

Vicki at the the blog Reading at the Beach recently reviewed Doug Magee's NEVER WAVE GOODBYE. As her praise was so effusive, we've decided to post the review in its entirety:

Forget about being hooked from the first page, this book had me at the blurb. It was like seeing a car accident on the side of the road and not being able to not look. I had to read it. The story is about one of the most terrifying things a parent could go through, having your child kidnapped. But this is different in that there is a group of kids (4) kidnapped, right in front of their parents. Parents who handed the children over to the kidnappers, thinking they were from the camp their kids were supposed to be going to.

The book gets better and better until your knuckles are white and you're holding your breath and wondering how this nightmare will end. This could happen anywhere to anyone and that makes the book all the more frightening.

Although there are a few things that don't jive, this is not only one of the best books I've read this year, but that I've ever read. I still can't believe this is the first book the author has written. I sure hope it isn't his last!!

Don't worry, Vicki, Doug's next book is coming out next year!

Dine With Paul Doiron

2010-07-06T16:56:00.003-04:00

The Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance is celebrating its 35th birthday on August 12th with 11 dinners in 11 Portland restaurants with 11 Maine writers -- and you're invited!

Click here to enjoy a dinner with the author of your choice. We're sure Ann Beattie, Richard Russo, Richard Ford, Joyce Maynard, and all the rest are charming, but we can promise you that Paul Doiron would be a wonderfully entertaining dinner companion. There's only room for ten guests at each dinner, so reserve your seat today!

Doiron: Maine Icon

2010-07-01T09:53:00.002-04:00

Capital Weekly recently profiled Paul Doiron for their Icons of Maine series. Paul speaks with them about Maine history, father-son relationships -- and the difficulty of pronouncing his last name.

Note to his fellow Mainers: Paul read on July 9th at 7pm at the Barnes & Noble on Marketplace Drive in Augusta and on July 20th at 6:30pm at the Charles M. Bailey Public Library in Winthrop.

Lehane Revisits Shutter Island

2010-06-28T11:16:00.002-04:00

Dennis Lehane shares more of his thoughts on seeing his novel SHUTTER ISLAND transformed into a film.

He tells whatsplaying.au, "The look of the film surprised me. It’s my vision filtered through Martin Scorsese’s consciousness. It’s utterly unique. At every step in the film I was unprepared for how it looked. It was really quite an experience."

In the Houston Chronicle, he elaborates, "I remember the first time I saw one of the dream sequences, I thought, 'Boy he went a little far.' So I went back and checked the book. He didn't go any place I hadn't gone."

EW.com asks him if Scorsese's vision of the island matches his, and he responds:

Yes and no. You come into a filter that is very distinct, and that’s Martin Scorsese's vision, and that’s not necessarily my visual palette. It’s his, and his is a hell of a lot more interesting than mine...I think I saw a much more naturalistic world, whereas he saw a much more surreal world, which works.

Even though their visions of the island differed, Lehane tells the Oklahoman that he was very pleased with how the film turned out:

I loved it, I mean [Scorsese] got it. He got what I was playing with and what I was trying for. And he did cinematically what I did in the language of the novel. The language of the novel is heightened in such a way that you should be aware very early that you're reading a novel, that this is an homage to Gothics, that this is basically a book about being a book in a lot of ways.

And he made a movie about being a movie. The movie is in your face as a movie right from the beginning. You should realize very quickly you're not in the real world, you're in Oz.

He tells G4TV.com that Scorsese remained very true to the book because "you can't remove anything major from the structure of Shutter Island without the entire thing collapsing. It's just, it's not possible. So no major elements were cut...Marty had to be pretty religious to the book while keeping it manageable. That's why it's over two hours long."

In case you were hoping for a big Hollywood sequel, Lehane says on Premiere.com that "the chances of that would be as good as Gladiator 2. I don’t know you just have to ask somebody besides me. I know I’m not writing a Shutter Island 2, let me put it to you that way."

ARLA Ventures Into The Land Of Dreams

2010-06-16T11:40:00.003-04:00

ARLA has signed Norwegian crime novelist Vidar Sundstøl's Minnesota Trilogy. The first, LAND OF DREAMS, has been a best-seller in Norway and Iceland and has just been published in the Netherlands, where it sold out its first print run in two weeks. Translation rights have also been sold in Denmark, France, Italy, and Germany. Rave reviews have pronounced it "... dark, powerful and eerily good … fully compatible with Annie Proulx's stories from Wyoming"; "… a powerful tale of a murder in Minnesota [that] is in a class of its own … an amazing novel, regardless of genre"; and "…brilliantly plotted."

Ann will be sending the first 90 pages out to US publishers soon.

Come Say Hello To Never Wave Goodbye Author

2010-06-10T17:16:00.003-04:00

We'd like to remind all of our New York-area readers that Doug Magee will be reading and signing his new book at the Park Avenue Borders tonight at 7. If you hurry, you can still get a seat!

NEVER WAVE GOODBYE was in the top 75 in both hardcover and Kindle on the Amazon Psychological and Suspense list yesterday, so it looks like some of you have already picked up a copy for him to sign!

If you still haven't gotten your copy, perhaps the blog Genre Go Round will help persuade you. They called the book "high octane suspense" and said "readers will relish this gut-wrenching drama."

The book has also passed the crucial Page 69 Test.

When Barry Met Dennis

2010-06-10T17:00:00.003-04:00

We're very thrilled to tell you that Dennis Lehane's MYSTIC RIVER was nominated for a Barry Award for Best Mystery/Crime Novel of the Decade!

Deadly Pleasures magazine sponsors the award and they'll announce the winner at Bouchercon in San Francisco on October 14.

Lehane On Shutter Island The Film

2010-06-09T11:25:00.003-04:00

Shutter Island came out on DVD yesterday, so Dennis Lehane has been busy speaking to the press about the film.

Check out interviews with MovieWeb, Digital Journal, the Calgary Herald, Winnipeg Free Press, Zoomer, Collider, and Fangoria for his take on incredible but somewhat surreal experience of seeing one's novels appear the big screen. You can also catch him on the television programs Good Day Alabama, Talk of Alabama, Fox News First in San Antonio, and Take Five & Company.

Also, if you still don't know what to get your dad for Father's Day, click here.

One Man In Paradise Has Been Very Busy

2010-05-19T15:42:00.006-04:00

Douglas Corleone, author of ONE MAN'S PARADISE, is all over the place these days!

He's received lots of attention from reviewers, beginning with the Honolulu Weekly, who says:

This is a strong book, one with the ring of authenticity. Corvelli -- and by extension, author Corleone -- may be new to this, but he knows it, and he's a quick study. That Hawaii is one of the United States and yet not part of "America" is among the book's many thoughtful motifs, and its ear for the lilt and cadence of local speech is right on. As a crime novel, One Man's Paradise is inventive and active and the twists keep on coming, which is what we're looking for in crime fiction. That, and a protagnist to believe in, and it's on this front that the book fully delivers -- Kevin Corvelli is tough, quick-witted and funny. He's also just soft enough for us to root for -- mainland mores, alligator shoes and all.

Buried Under Books exclaims, "Paradise is a very good first novel. Corleone is walking in some pretty big footsteps (Koryta leaps to mind) but he certainly has the potential to keep up. One Man's Paradise is another man’s good read."

"This is a quick, fun read that will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you begging for more. John Grisham better watch his back because Douglas Corleone has the potential to be a great name in the legal thriller genre," adds the Debut Authors Blog.

Hawaii Book Blog declares, "Questionable characters, murder, money and sex are all great components of a riveting crime novel and Corleone expertly weaves them all into a paradise setting, an undeniable formula of captivating suspense."

"It's a very fine first novel. Corleone has a bright future ahead of him. PARADISE really is a winner" concludes Reviewing the Evidence.

While blogs have been busy writing about him, he's been busy writing on them! Doug has recently guest blogged on Type M for Murder, Murder By 4, Do Some Damage, Suspense Your Disbelief, Buried Under Books, and The Page 69 Test.

He's also given interviews to Midweek, The Big Thrill, Hawaii Book Blog, Homespun Honolulu, and Associated Content.

On top of all that, he'll be reading at the Borders at Ward Center in Honolulu on the 22nd, the Borders at Windward Mall in Kaneohe on the 29th, and the Barnes & Noble at the Kahala Mall on June 5th.

Good thing Doug already lives in Hawaii -- after all that, we're sure he'll need to spend a little time relaxing on the beach!

Poacher Round-Up

2010-05-17T15:39:00.002-04:00

The praise for THE POACHER'S SON keeps coming! A reviewer at The Globe and Mail recently proclaimed that it was "one of the best debut novels I've ever read" and "has put unforgettable characters into a gorgeous setting and does it all with a lovely, liquid prose style that I found irresistible." She concludes by saying that the author of this "really enthralling mystery" is "definitely a writer to watch." We couldn't agree more!

In other Paul Doiron news, Shelf Awareness, a newsletter that provides "daily enlightenment for the book trade," has proclaimed him its Book Brahmin of the day. Click here to find out which books he's reading now, which book changed his life -- and which book he claims to have read but hasn't!

If you still haven't picked up your copy of THE POACHER'S SON, the Mystery Lovers Bookshop is featuring it as their book of the week and offering readers a discount!

Romantic Times Falls In Love With Doug Magee

2010-05-17T12:12:00.003-04:00

NEVER WAVE GOODBYE is a top pick in Romantic Times, earning their highest rating of 4 1/2 stars ("Gold Phenomenal -- In a Class by Itself")! They call Doug Magee's novel "a fast-paced, heart-twisting tale that shows how a family can crumble under the strain of the worst day of their lives."

Thriller fans in the New York area should come see Doug read at the Park Avenue Borders on June 10th at 7pm! We bet you'll love his book, too!

NYTBR Enjoys The View

2010-05-11T12:01:00.003-04:00

In her recent Crime column in The New York Times Book Review, Marilyn Stasio takes a look at THE POACHER'S SON and likes what she sees:

Paul Doiron is the editor in chief of Down East magazine, so it shouldn't be a total surprise that his first novel, THE POACHER'S SON, comes with stunning vistas of the dense forests and wild rivers that have impressed visitors to Maine ever since Benedict Arnold passed through on his march to Quebec in 1775. Along with nostalgic laments about the old-growth woods and modest settle ments that have already fallen to civilization, Doiron provides wonderful scenes of present-day bear-tracking and man-hunting through the kind of terrain that attracts hikers, hunters and the odd "paranoid militia freak" like the one causing so much trouble in this story.

The novel's eye-popping scenes, idyllic and otherwise, are conveyed by Doiron's narrator, Mike Bowditch, a rookie game warden who loves the "solitary and morbid profession" that is threatened when his father, Jack, a notorious poacher, is accused of murder. "He was a bar brawler, not a terrorist," Mike insists, swearing loyalty to a man who may not be worth his son's faith in him. Jack is still a flamboyant character, one of the best sights in a book that has plenty of natural wonders.

More Praise For The Poacher's Son

2010-05-04T10:28:00.002-04:00

BookBrowse, a website dedicated to seeking out and recommending exceptional books, recently gave two big thumbs up to THE POACHER'S SON:

The Poacher's Son is stocked with excitement and trepidation. Peering over the shoulder of Mike Bowditch as he combs through the eerie silence of the North Woods is pure nail-biting fun. Paul Doiron expertly takes hundreds of miles of largely uninhabited terrain and pares them down to a veritable base camp providing readers with easy access to both the thrill of the story and the breathtaking beauty of Maine's northern exposure. Loaded with unexpected twists, The Poacher's Son takes you to the edge and leaves you begging for more...

Read the complete review here.

This Is Only A Test

2010-05-03T11:04:00.003-04:00

Over the weekend, we had to update some settings on our blog. Everything seems to be running smoothly so far, but please let us know if you're experiencing any problems so we can fix them ASAP!

Booklist Calls Paul Doiron's Debut One Of The Year's Best

2010-04-29T12:37:00.005-04:00

We're very pleased to tell you that Booklist chose THE POACHER'S SON as one of their top ten debut crime novels of 2010, calling it "engaging" and "vividly written."

Doiron Sits Down For Tea With Strumpet

2010-04-29T10:26:00.004-04:00

You might think that a blog called Bookslut would like every book that comes along, but the folks over there are actually quite discerning readers. That's why we were so pleased when Clayton Moore, author of their Mystery Strumpet column, recently interviewed Paul Doiron and gave THE POACHER'S SON a rave review.

Clayton calls Paul's novel "sublime" and says "transcends its setting, lending a bleak austerity to its milieu while simultaneously infusing its main character with Steinbeckian humanity." He thinks its protagonist is "a fascinating, troubled character" and concludes:

The author, who devoured Sherlock Holmes as a kid and Raymond Carver and Tim O'Brian as a younger man, has managed to craft a novel that lies somewhere between the two, a crime novel that encompasses the full range of human emotion. The novel is the first in a series that will follow Mike's emotional development as he grows to be the man he's meant to be. It's a fascinating character study with much promise for the future.

Click here for more nice things about the book and Paul's illuminating commentary on its hero.

Catch Of The Day

2010-04-28T11:45:00.004-04:00

We're pleased to tell you that BookPage has chosen C.J. Box's NOWHERE TO RUN as today's book of the day, saying:

Pickett is a one-of-a-kind character, an Old West stand-up guy, and Box's tales of Pickett's exploits straddle the line between traditional Western (think Louis L'Amour) and thoroughly modern mystery. C.J. Box has won about every award there is to win: the Edgar, the Macavity, the Anthony, the Gumshoe, the Barry -- and with good reason. Like Tony Hillerman before him, he has reinvented a genre and made it his own.

Welcome To Paradise!

2010-04-27T15:52:00.004-04:00

ONE MAN'S PARADISE, winner of the Minotaur Books / Mystery Writers of America's First Crime Novel Award, comes out today! If you happen to be in Hawaii, you can catch the author, Douglas Corleone, at the following events:

Saturday, May 1 at 1:30pm
Barnes & Noble
Ala Moana Center

Saturday, May 8 at 1pm
Borders
Waikele Center

Sunday, May 16 at 3:30pm
Hawaii Book & Music Festival
Barnes & Noble tent for signing, followed by a reading and Q&A at the Author's Pavilion

Saturday, May 22 at 2pm
Borders
Ward Center

Saturday, June 5 at 1pm
Barnes & Noble
Kahala Mall

Check back here for more dates!

In Case You Didn't Hear It On The Radio

2010-04-26T17:27:00.002-04:00

If you weren't near a radio on Friday afternoon, you can click here for a transcript of C.J. Box's interview on Hugh Hewitt's show.

Kathleen George Puts On Some Lipstick And Smiles

2010-04-26T14:14:00.005-04:00

While Kathleen George may be a professor and Edgar-nominated author, she is also a self-professed ditz. In a recent guest post on The Lipstick Chronicles, she explains why that is actually be a good thing: "There's so much pressure on women these days to be well-oiled machines, strong, tough, competent -- anything but a ditz. But isn't there grace in ditziness, too? Sometimes we just need to collapse into zany, innocent, and gullible puddles of good will."

Click here to read some very amusing stories of how Kathy's inner Gracie Allen got her into -- and out of -- some sticky situations.

Friday Night Rights

2010-04-23T15:24:00.003-04:00

It's been an exciting week here at ARLA! Not only did we make it to the London Book Fair unscathed by volcanic ash, we also signed Dennis Lehane with a new UK publishing team!

There were several worthy competitors, but ultimately David Shelley of Little, Brown was the victor. He scored a two-book deal for Moonlight Mile, Lehane's final Patrick and Angie novel, and the as yet untitled sequel to The Given Day.

We'd like to thank Sarah Nundy of Andrew Nurnberg Associates for running point on this one!

Catch the full postgame report from the Bookseller.

People With Great Taste In Books

2010-04-23T15:18:00.004-04:00

People magazine recently gave C.J. Box's NOWHERE TO RUN four out of four stars, saying, "This stellar novel combines harrowing adrenaline rushes with complex morality, humor and a landscape described so vibrantly it seems to have a life all its own."

The Chicago Tribune tells its readers that the book is "what you ought to be reading," calling Box "a skillful writer and plot-spinner with plenty of wily surprises up his chambray sleeve."

Books On The Radio

2010-04-22T14:06:00.003-04:00

C.J. Box fans should tune into Hugh Hewitt's nationally syndicated radio show tomorrow afternoon because its entire three hours will be devoted to an interview with the author!

The Poacher's Son Is "One Of The Year's Boldest Debuts"

2010-04-09T15:46:00.003-04:00

We're excited to tell you that Kirkus Reviews featured Paul Doiron's THE POACHER'S SON in their Spring & Summer Preview, which highlights the best and brightest books of the season! From the issue:

One of the year's boldest debuts comes from the woodsy wilderness of Maine, where Paul Doiron augments his day job as the editor-in-chief of Down East magazine with a new crime series. The book stars game warden Mike Bowditch, who must confront his toxic upbringing when his father is accused of murdering a local cop. For the author, it meant getting up close and personal with his hero's unusual profession. "In Maine, game wardens essentially function as full-fledged police officers, enforcing the laws of the state wherever there isn't a road, which is pretty much everywhere," says Doiron. "They arrest snowmobilers for drunk driving, retrieve drowned swimmers from the bottom of lakes and rescue Alzheimer patients lost in the woods. They have extremely difficult and misunderstood jobs, for which they are paid next to nothing. I have nothing but respect for the courage and conviction it takes to do what they do." Doiron's fierce combination of wilderness know-how and old-school journalism has already earned him a three-book contract. "My goal is to follow Mike as he matures and becomes the man he was meant to be," he says. "I hope readers will want to come along for the journey."

We're sure they will, Paul, because it's going to be one exciting ride!

Next Stop: The Indie Next List!

2010-04-02T12:53:00.004-04:00

Each month, Indie Bound takes recommendations from independent booksellers all over the country and compiles their Indie Next List of cant-miss new titles. We're very pleased to tell you that C.J. Box's NOWHERE TO RUN appears on their April list!

Marie of the Seattle Mystery Bookshop (where Chuck will appear on the 16th) says:

Gripping, compelling storytelling by Edgar Award-winning author Box makes his 10th Joe Pickett mystery a must-read. Set against the wide-open spaces of Wyoming, scary people do scary things to not-so-innocent bystanders. This book delivers a walloping good read on so many levels: superb writing, eerie plot, startling twists, and Joe Pickett's quiet decency showcased against the conflict between community need and individual integrity.

The book comes out on Tuesday, and, after reading such a strong recommendation from a woman who obviously knows her stuff, we're sure that all of you will want to run to your local independent bookstore and snag a copy!

Man On The Run

2010-04-01T12:53:00.004-04:00

C.J. Box will be running all over the place promoting NOWHERE TO RUN! Check out his lengthy tour schedule below to see if he's coming to a town near you!

Monday, April 5 at 7pm

American Heritage Center

University of Wyoming

Laramie, WY

Tuesday, April 6 at 4pm

City Newsstand Bookstore & Coffee House

1722 Carey Avenue

Cheyenne, WY

Wednesday, April 7 at 6:30pm

Murder by the Book

2342 Bissonnet Street

Houston, TX

Thursday, April 8 at 7pm

Book People

603 North Lamar Boulevard

Austin, TX

Friday, April 9 at 5pm

Murder by the Book

1574 South Pearl Street

Denver, CO

Friday, April 9 at 7:30pm

Tattered Cover

2526 East Colfax Avenue

Denver, CO

Saturday, April 10 at 2pm

Barnes & Noble

520 South 24th Street West

Billings, MT

Sunday, April 11 at 2pm

Barnes & Noble

1601 Market Place Drive, Suite 65

Great Falls, MT

Wednesday, April 14 at 7pm

Poisoned Pen

4014 North Goldwater Boulevard, Suite 101

Scottsdale, AZ

Thursday, April 15 at 7pm

Mysterious Galaxy

7051 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite 302

San Diego, CA

Friday, April 16 at 12:30pm

Seattle Mystery Bookshop

117 Cherry Street

Seattle, WA

Friday, April 6 at 7:30pm

Barnes & Noble

2675 NE University Village Street

Seattle, WA

Saturday, April 17 at 1:30pm

Mystery Bookstore

1036-C Broxton Avenue

Los Angeles, CA

Saturday, April 17 at 4pm

Mysteries to Die For

2940 Thousand Oaks Boulevard

Thousand Oaks, CA

Sunday, April 18 at 12pm

Book Carnival

348 South Tustin Avenue

Orange, CA

Monday, April 19 at 7pm

M Is For Mystery

86 East Third Avenue

San Mateo, CA

Tuesday, April 20 at 7pm

Once Upon A Crime

604 West 26th Street

Minneapolis, MN

Wednesday, April 21 at 7pm

Mystery One Bookstore

2109 North Prospect Avenue

Milwaukee, WI

Thursday, April 22 at 7pm

Borders

34300 Woodward

Birmingham, MI

Friday, April 23 at 7pm

Books & Company

4453 Walnut Street

Dayton, OH

Saturday, April 24 at 7pm

Joseph-Beth Booksellers

161 Lexington Green Circle

Lexington, KY

Sunday, April 25 at 2:30pm

Eagle Eye Bookshop

2076 North Decatur Road

Decatur, GA

Saturday, May 1 at 1pm

Old Firehouse Books

232 Walnut Street

Fort Collins, CO

Saturday, May 1 at 7pm

High Crimes Mystery Bookshop

927 Main Street

Longmont, CO

Monday, May 10 at 5pm

Sheridan Stationery Books and Gallery

206 North Main Street

Sheridan, WY

Tuesday, May 11 at 3pm

Ralph's Books and Cards

215 South Montana Avenue

Casper, WY

Monday, June 14

The Wort Hotel

50 North Glenwood Street

Jackson, WY

Tuesday, June 15 at 1pm

The Old Faithful Inn

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone, WY

Wednesday, June 16 at 11am

The Old Faithful Inn

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone, WY

Wednesday, June 16 at 6pm

The Mammoth Hotel

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone, WY

Thursday, June 17 at 1pm

Cody Newsstand

1121 13th Street

Cody, WY

Another Winner!

2010-03-19T09:46:00.005-04:00

Many of you correctly identified the author of yesterday's quote as Alexis de Tocqueville (your high school history teachers would be very proud of you for remembering your Democracy in America -- or very disappointed in you for resorting to Google!), but Gary of Kennewick, Washington, was the quickest on the draw.

Congratulations, Gary, an advance copy of NOWHERE TO RUN is on its way to you!

Win An Advance Copy Of C.J. Box's Latest!

2010-03-18T11:09:00.002-04:00

Because you enjoyed our previous giveaway so much, we've decided to hold another one!

Our readers outside of New York may not have heard about Bruce Ratner's Atlantic Yards project in Brooklyn, but his plans to tear down private homes and businesses to build a stadium for his (pitifully performing) basketball team have generated an enormous amount of controversy. We don't want to give too much of the plot away, but C.J. Box's NOWHERE TO RUN contains an equally wrenching example of eminent domain abuse.

We will give an advance copy of this exciting new installment in the Joe Pickett series to the first person who can identify the author of the book's epigraph:

In no other country in the world is the love of property keener or more alert than in the United States, and nowhere else does the majority display less inclination towards doctrines which in any way threaten the way property is owned.

Email your response to info(at)rittlit(dot)com. The rest of you will have to wait until next month to get your hands on a copy!

We Have A Winner!

2010-03-18T10:38:00.002-04:00

Meredith of Chesaning, Michigan, is the winner of our POACHER'S SON giveaway!

While we appreciated all of our dear readers who wrote in with their favorite ways to poach an egg, we liked her response the best:

"'An egg that is caught poaching will most certainly fry!' said the judge when asked."

Congratulations, Meredith, your advance reader's copy is on its way!

For the record, here is the ARLA-tested method:

Fill a small saucepan with about two inches of water and a splash of vinegar. When small bubbles are beginning to form and rise to the surface, swirl the water with a slotted spoon and drop an egg (the fresher, the better) into the center of the 'whirlpool.' Pop some bread in the toaster and turn down the heat slightly to keep the water just below a boil. When the toast is ready, scoop the egg out with the slotted spoon, carefully blot it with a paper towel, place it on your toast, and enjoy!

The Favorite Son

2010-03-16T16:23:00.006-04:00

In Library Journal's new Book Cheer column, "the true story of 12 library marketing directors reviewing one another's titles," Chris Vaccari of Sterling reads three books and chooses a favorite.

Mr. Vaccari obviously has exquisite literary taste, not only because he counts "anything by Dennis Lehane" among his all-time favorite books, but also because he chose THE POACHER'S SON as the winner in this match-up! He says, "I've never been to Maine, but now I feel like I have. Twigs were cracking underneath my feet as I settled in to read this one. Doiron creates great scenery to surround an impressive debut. Well done, sir."

(We still have an advance copy to give away, so don't be shy about writing in with the answer to last week's question!)

Friday Night Rights

2010-03-12T17:34:00.002-05:00

ARLA's teammates have been on a hot streak these past two weeks!

First up at the plate, Atilla Turgut of the Akcali Copyright agency sold DOROTHY OF MANHATTAN, Adam Fawer's latest novel, to April Publishing in Turkey.

La Nouvelle Agence's Michele Kanonidis sold MOONLIGHT MILE, Dennis Lehane's forthcoming Patrick and Angie mystery (the sixth and final one), to Lehane’s longtime French publisher, Editions Rivages, while Naomi Colvin of Andrew Nurnberg Associates sold it to The House of Books, Lehane's devoted Dutch publisher.

German publishers Schreiber & Lesser stepped up to the plate with offers for publication in graphic form of both SHUTTER ISLAND and "Until Gwen," the short story by Dennis Lehane that begins, "Your father picks you up from prison in a stolen Dodge Neon with an eight ball in the glove compartment and a hooker named Mandy in the backseat," one of our favorite openings ever. Michele Kanonidis of La Nouvelle Agence and Sabine Pfannensteil-Wright of Andrew Nurnberg Associates fielded the offers and brought them home.

Cappelen Damm in Norway renewed rights to MYSTIC RIVER and SHUTTER ISLAND, thanks to Ulf Toregard of the Sane Toregard Agency.

Romanian, Slovenian, and Portuguese readers will get to know THE POACHER'S SON thanks to Reader's Digest. Paul Doiron's publisher, St. Martin's Press, handled those deals.

Putnam's Lance Fitzgerald made a deal with Piemme for Italian publication of NOWHERE TO RUN, and our co-agent Sarah Nundy completed the two-book deal with a contract for BLUE HEAVEN.

Good work, team! We'd pour a bucket of Gatorade on all of you if we could!

First Look At The Poacher's Son

2010-03-12T13:06:00.005-05:00

This month, Paul Doiron is over on First Look, Barnes & Noble's book club, for an online discussion with a select group of readers who were given advance copies of THE POACHER'S SON. They read several chapters each week and then post their reactions, generating some pretty lively debates.

Charlie Spicer, his amazing editor at St. Martin's, is also on the site this week answering reader's questions. He has some very interesting things to say about his work on the book and the publishing process in general, so it's well worth a look!

If you're feeling sad that you'll have to wait until May to get your hands on the book, we do have one advance reader's copy to give away. We'll send it to the person who emails us at info(at)rittlit(dot)com with the best way to poach an egg!

The Man Beneath The Black Hat

2010-03-12T10:51:00.005-05:00

Wyofile has a great in-depth profile of ARLA author and all-around nice guy C.J. Box. Click here to find out how he got his start as a writer, what "C.J." stands for, why he responds to every single letter from his readers (even the grumpy ones), and much more!

Friday Night Rights

2010-02-26T12:54:00.008-05:00

ARLA's agents across the universe have been working around the clock to spread the word of great books in more languages than we can count -- even Canadian! Here's what they've done in 2010 alone:

C.J. Box's Edgar Award-winning standalone, BLUE HEAVEN, has been sold by Aleksandra Matuszak of ANAW in Poland to Wydawnictwo Albatros Andrzej Kurylowicz, while Miko Yamanouchi of Japan Uni sold THREE WEEKS TO SAY GOODBYE (his second standalone) to Hayakawa in Japan. Ulf Toregard of the Sane Toregard agency sold both of those books to Klim in Denmark, along with Chuck's forthcoming standalone, BACK OF BEYOND (St. Martin's Press 2011).

Dennis Lehane's SHUTTER ISLAND (cf. the #1 box office hit!) has new deals all over the place! Ulf Toregard sold it to Lindhardt & Ringhof in Denmark, while Atilla Turgut of the Akcali Copyright Agency sold it to Artemis Yayinlari in Turkey, Ludmilla Sushkova of Andrew Nurnberg Associates Moscow sold it to Atticus in Russia, and Kristine Supe of Andrew Nurnberg's Baltic office sold it to Carobna Knjiga in Serbia. Daniela Petracco of Andrew Nurnberg Associates sold it to Edizioni BD in Italy, while Michele Kanonidis of La Nouvelle Agence sold the graphic novel to Compupress in Greece (don't mention the Euro!).

Laura Whitcomb's award-winning novel A CERTAIN SLANT OF LIGHT will be published in Turkey by Bilge Kultur Sanat thanks to Atilla Turgut. Shari Smiley of Creative Artists Agency also optioned film rights to producer Kristin Hahn.

Brazilians and Germans will NEVER WAVE GOODBYE again after reading the forthcoming novel by Doug Magee, thanks to Sextante and Aufbau, respectively. Daniela Petracco and fellow Nurnberger Sabine Pfannensteil-Wright oversaw those deals. Touchstone, a division of Simon and Schuster, will publish in the U.S. this June.

ARLA's own Penn Whaling has sold May-lee Chai's DRAGON CHICA to Gemma Media, a Boston publishing house, and her client Doug Harris's YOU COMMA IDIOT (aka BEST TITLE EVER) will be published by Goose Lane Editions in Canada.

Yeehaw!

Paradise Found

2010-02-26T11:56:00.005-05:00

St. Martin's will publish Douglas Corleone's debut novel, ONE MAN'S PARADISE, in April, and it's already gotten a very nice review from Booklist:

This novel won the Minotaur Books/Mystery Writers of America First Crime Novel Award, and it's no wonder. Former defense lawyer Corleone has created a crafty and memorable character and placed him in a suspenseful and layered story. Kevin Corvelli was a defense lawyer in New York until his apathy toward his clients led to the conviction of an innocent man, who was later murdered in prison. Now Kevin is living in Hawaii, still working as a lawyer but doing so purely to pay off his staggering student loan. "I don't like my clients," he tells us, "and I don't care if they like me." But when a law student is accused of murdering his former girlfriend, Kevin discovers that he actually does give a damn whether this particular client is guilty or innocent. This is a solid, well-written legal thriller with quite interesting ethical undercurrents. Kevin's journey begins at personal and professional apathy and ends at some form of redemption. Perhaps the author plans to continue Kevin's transformation in subsequent novels: a sequel to this fine debut would seem almost mandatory.

Running Up The Starred Reviews!

2010-02-26T11:28:00.005-05:00

We're pleased to tell you that C.J. Box's NOWHERE TO RUN has received two more starred reviews!

Kirkus says that "it's great to see the usual Box strengths -- exhilarating landscapes, high adventure, thrilling suspense, surprising moral quandaries -- done to a turn."

Booklist adds, "As Box has become more prolific, his gold standard has become alloyed, but Nowhere to Run, the tenth in the series, ranks with his best books, such as Open Season (2001) and Out of Range (2005). Readers should take note of their surroundings before opening this book: once they start reading, they won't know what hit them."

Shutter Island Hits The NYT Bestseller List!

2010-02-24T10:22:00.003-05:00

I guess everyone wanted to read the book before they saw the movie, because SHUTTER ISLAND has risen to #18 on this week's New York Times paperback trade fiction bestseller list!

Doug Magee Hits The Clubs

2010-02-22T10:36:00.003-05:00

If you're a member of, well, any of the book clubs, you have quite a treat coming for you in the mail this summer!

NEVER WAVE GOODBYE, Doug Magee's gripping debut novel, will be a Featured Alternate in the Mystery Guild, Literary Guild, Book-of-the-Month Club, Doubleday Book Club, Doubleday Large Print Book Club, and BOMC2. For all of you romance fans out there, don't worry -- it will also be a selection in Rhapsody!

[SH]UTTER Insanity

2010-02-22T10:25:00.003-05:00

Well, dear readers, a lot of you must gone to see SHUTTER ISLAND this weekend -- and taken your whole families along -- because it was #1 at the box office this weekend! In fact, the film was both Scorsese's and DiCaprio's biggest opening ever!

Here's more from The New York Times and Deadline.com.

Shutter Island Opens Today!

2010-02-19T10:51:00.006-05:00

We're very excited to tell you that the film adaptation of Dennis Lehane's SHUTTER ISLAND opens today!

The LA Times calls it "a new noir classic" and raves that "director Martin Scorsese has created a divinely dark and devious brain tease of a movie in the best noir tradition with its smarter than you'd think cops, their tougher than you'd imagine cases to crack and enough nods to the classic genre for an all-night parlor game."

USA Today proclaims it "technically masterful, as only a film by visionary director Martin Scorsese can be" and adds, "From the first queasy scene, you are drawn into and captured by the ominous goings-on at Shutter Island." It says that "DiCaprio's blend of brooding and unease is riveting" and "the rest of the ensemble is equally terrific."

The Hollywood Reporter chimes in, saying, "Martin Scorsese's 'Shutter Island' is a remarkable high-wire act, performed without a net and exploiting all the accumulated skills of a consummate artist. It dazzles and provokes."

Variety calls the movie "expert, screw-turning narrative filmmaking" with a "topnotch cast."

Better get your tickets now!

Getting A Running Start

2010-02-17T12:46:00.004-05:00

C.J. Box's new Joe Pickett novel comes out in April and it's already gotten two starred reviews!

Publishers Weekly calls NOWHERE TO RUN "outstanding" and a "terrible, beautiful tale of courage and compassion and culpability," while Library Journal says this "well structured novel" is "intense" and "highly recommended."

Click here to read the full reviews.

More U.K. Love For C.J. Box

2010-02-04T12:27:00.003-05:00

We're pleased that C.J. Box's THREE WEEKS TO SAY GOODBYE is making such a big splash across the pond!

The Bookseller, the Bible of the U.K. book trade, recently featured it in their "Ones to Watch" section and had the following nice things to say about it: "Atlantic's new imprint launches with a winner and a big marketing spend. An American in Harlan Coben mould and much praised by his peers, it's a non-stop read right to the end. A tale of corruption, paedophilia, blackmail and worse as at the centre of it is a nine-month-old baby girl. It's quite a tale."

We Know You Only Read It For The Articles

2010-02-02T15:58:00.004-05:00

...but this month you should also read Playboy for a new short story by Dennis Lehane. We might be biased, but we think that "Animal Rescue" is the most alluring thing in the entire issue!

All The Cool Kids Are Doing It!

2010-01-27T19:44:00.002-05:00

Click here to become a fan of THE POACHER'S SON on Facebook!

Four For Four!

2010-01-27T17:08:00.005-05:00

Booklist gave Paul Doiron's THE POACHER'S SON its fourth starred review, saying:

Doiron, editor-in-chief of Down East magazine, is well acquainted with the current political and cultural tensions that crisscross Maine, and his local knowledge drives this fast-paced and twisty narrative. With realistically flawed characters and a strong sense of place -- both on the coast and in the woods -- the novel avoids tourist stereotyping, of Maine itself and its citizens...One hopes this fine novel is the first in a series starring Warden Bowditch, who could quickly become the East Coast version of C. J. Box's game-warden hero Joe Pickett, who patrols the range in Wyoming.

Click here for the full review!

(To answer the reviewer's question, it is indeed the first in a series. We've read a draft of the second installment and can assure you that it's just as exciting as the first!)

A Helpful Suggestion From Books-A-Million

2010-01-26T14:42:00.005-05:00

Libby Hellmann Bakes A Tough Cookie

2010-01-25T10:16:00.004-05:00

Forget Toll House and its famous chocolate chip cookies! According to crime-fiction blog The Rap Sheet, Bleak House has the recipe for the best hard-boiled treats around!

The blog recently had all sorts of nice things to say about DOUBLEBACK, Libby Fischer Hellman's latest mystery from Bleak House Books:

Not at all a cozy, Hellman's new book is one tough cookie. When I think of Libby Fischer Hellmann, her two excellent series come to mind: the longer one about video producer and single mother Ellie Foreman, and the newer one about ex-Chicago cop-turned-private investigator Georgia Davis...Now Hellmann has combined her two protagonists into one strong and moving novel...Hellmann has done such a good job of bringing her dual principals to vivid life in Doubleback, that you believe every word of it.

Click here to read the full review and more!

What Are The Odds?

2010-01-20T09:50:00.003-05:00

Lady Luck must be smiling down on ARLA because, one year after BLUE HEAVEN won the Edgar Award for best novel, THE ODDS by Kathleen George was nominated for the same award!

Mystery Writers of America will announce the winner on April 29th, so keep your fingers crossed until then!

The Poacher's Son Goes Clubbing

2010-01-15T11:50:00.002-05:00

We're pleased to tell you that THE POACHER'S SON will be an Editor's Pick and Alternate Selection of the Mystery Guild Book Club and an Alternate Selection of the Literary Guild Book Club!

If you're not a member of either club, don't fret! It will also be available on BOMC2, the Book-of-the-Month Club's online-only membership club, and if you're a member of any of the numerous other clubs affiliated with the BOMC, you will be able to purchase it on the website of your club. And, of course, you can always pick up a copy at your local independent bookstore!

The L.A. Times Enjoys Its Trip To Shutter Island

2010-01-14T16:32:00.003-05:00

The L.A. Times raved about the new graphic novel edition of SHUTTER ISLAND, declaring:

The graphic version of "Shutter Island" is religiously (and gruesomely) faithful to Lehane's novel and with good reason -- it would be hard to tamper with the circuitry of such a meticulously crafted mystery. The visual demands and page-count realities of the visual medium required tough choices, but de Metter has handled them deftly.

The plot of the original book was purposely confounding in certain dark corners and here those shadowy places are ambiguous in a different but still satisfying way. The climactic sequences of Lehane's book possessed a powerful click as they fell into place and, under de Metter's watch, the dread and revelation remain intact.

Read the full review here.

And Three Makes A Constellation!

2010-01-14T14:50:00.002-05:00

Kirkus Reviews gave Paul Doiron's THE POACHER'S SON its third starred review!

They liken Doiron to C.J. Box, another one of our dear authors, and say, "Like Box, Doiron will have his hands full trying to top his accomplished debut."

Read the full review here.

Another New Star in the Maine Sky

2010-01-11T15:57:00.003-05:00

We're pleased to tell you that Paul Doiron's THE POACHER'S SON has received its second starred review!

Publishers Weekly writes:

Down East editor-in-chief Doiron takes a provocative look at the ties between fathers and sons, unconditional love, and Maine's changing landscape in his outstanding debut....Fans of C.J. Box and Nevada Barr will appreciate the vivid wilderness scenes. Equally a story of relationships and an outdoor adventure, this evocative thriller is sure to put Doiron on several 2010 must-read lists.

Click here to read the full review and more.

Stargazing In Maine

2009-12-17T17:19:00.006-05:00

St. Martin's will publish THE POACHER'S SON in the spring, and we're pleased to tell you that Paul Doiron's debut novel has already gotten its first starred review!

Library Journal says:

A richly imagined portrait of the vanishing wilderness in New England's farthest reaches, Doiron's well-written debut is also a taut thriller and thoughtful examination of the complicated relationship between father and son. Of a piece with Castle Freeman Jr.'s All That I Have about a Vermont sheriff, this will also appeal to fans of CJ Box's Wyoming game warden Joe Pickett.

As Dark As A Lump Of Coal But A Much Better Stocking Stuffer

2009-12-17T17:09:00.005-05:00

We think BOSTON NOIR, the anthology edited by Dennis Lehane, would make the perfect gift for any book-loving loved ones, and it seems that the fine people of Boston agree. The book has been hanging out on the Boston Globe bestseller list for the past few weeks and is currently in the #3 spot.

C.J. Box's UK Invasion

2009-12-02T11:51:00.005-05:00

Box-mania is in full swing across the pond as THREE WEEKS TO SAY GOODBYE makes it UK debut!

Here's a sampling of the rave reviews:

Here is a book that comes festooned with expectations and praise from abroad, with hopeful comparisons made to such American giants as Harlan Coben. Are the comparisons justified? The answer is resoundingly in the affirmative -- this novel is absolutely terrific. -- The Good Book Guide

I don't have a lot of crime fiction or thrillers on my shelf -- it's not a genre I've particularly hankered after -- but CJ Box could have well converted me. I hope he takes off over here as he has done in the States. He deserves to. -- Bookrabbit.com

A thriller with a difference with no murder to solve and no fugitives' from justice. One which will break your heart but leave you compelled to keep turning till the last page. -- The Liffeyside Blog

C.J. Box writes like an Edgar winner. Tight pages turn and turn," adding "Character development remained strong, pace fast and the writing always switchblade-sharp" and "the novel was narrated convincingly and with terrifying plausibility. -- Critical Mick

C.J. Box isn't just sitting back and basking in the glow of all of this adulation! He's written an article for The Guardian about his top ten US crime novelists and one for Crime Time on the rising popularity of the high-concept thriller in the UK.

First Look At Shutter Island Graphic Novel

2009-12-02T10:52:00.004-05:00

We're excited to tell you that Tokyopop and Morrow have teamed up to release a graphic novel adaptation of Dennis Lehane's SHUTTER ISLAND in January. It will feature illustrations by internationally renowned comic book artist Christian De Metter.

Here's a sneak peek for you, courtesy of Publishers Weekly!

The Given Day Still Going Strong

2009-11-18T15:05:00.004-05:00

Over at ARLA headquarters, we're pleased that THE GIVEN DAY has climbed to #18 on The New York Times paperback list.

The Given Day Isn't The Only ARLA bestseller!

2009-11-18T14:52:00.006-05:00

THE COLLECTOR, Jack Nisbet's account of David Douglas, famed 19th century botanical explorer of the Pacific Northwest, is currently #3 on the Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association list.

Here's an interesting article in The Oregonian if you'd like to learn more about Douglas.

Some Not At All Surprising News

2009-11-12T16:37:00.007-05:00

The short story anthology BOSTON NOIR, edited by Dennis Lehane, has hit #8 on the Boston Globe's bestseller list! (In slightly more surprising news, it was on their nonfiction list, but, hey, we're not complaining!)

Making An IMPAC[T]

2009-11-04T16:40:00.004-05:00

Over at ARLA headquarters, we're delighted that two of our authors have been longlisted for the International IMPAC DUBLIN Literary Award: C.J. Box for Blood Trail and Dennis Lehane for The Given Day.

Sponsored by the Dublin City Council, the award is open to books written in any language and receives nominations from libraries all over the world. Judges will announce the winner next year, so keep your fingers crossed!

Countdown To Three Week's UK Publication

2009-10-27T16:13:00.005-04:00

The momentum keeps building for THREE WEEKS TO SAY GOODBYE'S U.K. publication in December with a blitz of online publicity.

Shots Mag says that "C.J. Box is a huge bestseller in the States, and, when Three Weeks to Say Goodbye hits bookshelves in the U.K., he's destined to win a big audience over here as well," adding,"This is a terrific thriller with suspense mounting inexorably and nasty surprises coming from all directions. It's also packed with memorable characters. Make a note of the name. C.J.Box is here to stay."

Tangled Web says the book is "a must read for fans of Linwood Barclay and Harlan Coben."

More reviews are forthcoming in Bookbag.co.uk, Lovereading.co.uk, The Liffeyside Blog, and It's A Crime.

Box will be the featured author in December at Bookrabbit.com, and Book Club Forum, Critical Mick, and Crime Always Pays will feature interviews with him.

There's plenty more to come, so check back here for updates!

Lehane Still Going Strong

2009-10-13T14:36:00.003-04:00

We're pleased to tell you that THE GIVEN DAY is still holding its spot at #24 on The New York Times trade paperback bestseller list, while SHUTTER ISLAND has popped up as #35!

The Given Day Hits The NYT Paperback Bestseller List

2009-10-01T11:25:00.005-04:00

THE GIVEN DAY by Dennis Lehane came out in paperback a few weeks ago, and we're pleased to tell you that it's hit #24 on The New York Times paperback trade fiction bestseller list. With the novel's Boston setting, it's no surprise that it also hit #6 on the Boston Globe list!

Meanwhile, SHUTTER ISLAND is still holding strong on the Times' mass-market fiction list at #14!

Two Months Until Readers Say Hello

2009-10-01T11:01:00.008-04:00

Corvus, a brand new imprint of Atlantic Books, will publish C.J. Box's THREE WEEKS TO SAY GOODBYE in the U.K. in December, and they're already rolling out the red carpet for Mr. Box's arrival. The book was featured on the cover of The Bookseller (pictured above), as well as inside the magazine:

For all of our readers across the pond who can't wait to start reading it, you can download the first chapter from the Corvus website.

Readers Shiver With Antici...pation

2009-09-24T10:17:00.007-04:00

Every good book snob knows that you have to read the book before you see the movie, so it's no surprise that, in anticipation of Martin Scorsese's film adaptation, Dennis Lehane's SHUTTER ISLAND has hit #11 on both the Publishers Weekly and The New York Times mass market bestseller lists!

When C.J. Met R.J.

2009-09-24T09:40:00.005-04:00

At the 20th Annual Kappa Kappa Gamma Book and Author Dinner in Denver, C.J. Box made friends with another handsome cowboy (or at least someone who's played one in the movies), Robert Wagner.

Chuck writes, "After the talks at the event tonight (650 people were there), R.J. came up to me and said, very graciously, 'I've never been upstaged by a writer before,' which thrilled me to no end. Then we spent a few hours in the bar talking fly-fishing."

So, Chuck, when are you going to introduce us?

It Might Be Dark, But That Star Will Brighten Things Up A Bit

2009-09-23T11:21:00.004-04:00

We're pleased to tell you that BOSTON NOIR, edited by Dennis Lehane, has received a starred review in Publishers Weekly!

They write:

In the best of the 11 stories in this outstanding entry in Akashic's noir series, characters, plot and setting feed off each other like flames and an arsonist's accelerant. These include Lehane's own "Animal Rescue," about a killing resulting from a lost and contested pit bull; John Dufresne's "The Cross-Eyed Bear," in which a pedophile priest is caught between the icy representative of the archdiocese and one of his now adult victims; and Don Lee's "The Oriental Hair Poets," which charts a literary feud that escalates into a police case. Two populations that define the city for outsiders -- the elite WASP "Brahmins" and the hundreds of thousands of college students surging through to earn their degrees -- appear only in passing. While Lehane expresses the fear in his introduction that Boston is becoming "beiger," less tribal and gritty and more gentrified and homogenized, this anthology shows that noir can thrive where Raymond Chandler has never set foot.

The anthology comes out in November from Akashic Books.

Book Nerds Unite!

2009-09-21T11:33:00.006-04:00

Although it might have been overshadowed by all the hubbub surrounding the juicier National Cheeseburger Day and arrrrr-ier National Talk Like A Pirate Day, Book Blogger Appreciation Week also occurred last week. While we love burgers and parrots as much as the next literary agency blog, we think that BBAW should also get its due, even if we're a bit late in pointing it out.

Fortunately, ARLA author Kathleen McCleary was on top of things and wrote a great article for the occasion entitled "Why Book Blogs Matter." She posits that they matter because "all of us who love reading -- who may be introverts or extroverts, insanely happy or in despair, athletic or clumsy, beautiful or not-so-much -- have, through the common bond of reading books, the chance to know we're not alone."

Get All The Dirt From The ARLA Gossip Girls

2009-09-15T16:14:00.003-04:00

Click here if you'd like to subscribe to our blog and receive periodic emails with all of our fresh news and reviews!

You know you love us!

xoxo,
Ann and Penn

Collecting Some Nice Reviews

2009-09-10T14:40:00.003-04:00

Next month, Sasquatch Books will publish THE COLLECTOR by Jack Nisbet, a fascinating look at the life of a 19th-century botanist, and we're pleased that Booklist has already had some nice things to say about it:

Intrepid. Indefatigable. Enthusiastic. Enduring. The adjectives used to describe pioneering botanist David Douglas are nearly as extensive as the list of plants this resourceful explorer introduced to the world. From the towering fir that bears his name to lowly alpine mosses, Douglas's extensive horticultural discoveries fueled the insatiable British and European appetite for exotic plants and secured his legacy as one of the most prolific and fearless plant-hunters of the nineteenth century. Historian and naturalist Nisbet traces the unlikely evolution of this audacious adventurer from his early days as an apprentice gardener in his native Britain to the rough-and-tumble years spent traversing the daunting terrain of the Pacific Northwest and beyond in search of new species of trees, shrubs, flowers, and herbs. The result is an exhilarating biography that provides an entertaining portrait of the unfettered determination that drove one of the giants in the field of botanical exploration and infused the young nation he viewed with a keen and zealous spirit.

Target Targets Nellie Hermann's Book

2009-09-01T09:38:00.002-04:00

We're pleased to tell you that Target has chosen THE CURE FOR GRIEF as one of their Breakout Books selections!

Soup of the Week

2009-08-19T14:14:00.005-04:00

Book Soup, Los Angeles-based "Bookseller to the Great & Infamous," has chosen Debra Austin's DAUGHTER OF KURA as their current Book of the Week.

They praise the book in their newsletter, saying, "Both imaginative and believable, Daughter of Kura astonishingly brings to life an ancient and untamed world. Austin has created an unforgettable heroine who comes of age in a thrilling tale of courage, loyalty, and passion."

Box Called One Of The West's Most Anticipated Storytellers

2009-08-10T11:34:00.004-04:00

The Denver Post may be a little late to the party, but we're happy to hear they've chimed in with their own praise of C.J. Box's latest:

"Below Zero" is more of a thriller than a mystery, and the pace is relentless. The characters are fascinating, and their actions range from the heroic to despicable.

Box really knows how to create a complex situation, add suspense and then twist the tale with surprises that make for an intense and satisfying read. Box has become one of the West's most anticipated storytellers.

Read the full review and more here.

Nellie Hermann Named As A Ribalow Finalist

2009-08-03T17:31:00.003-04:00

We're pleased to tell you that Nellie Hermann's THE CURE FOR GRIEF has been chosen as a finalist for the 2009 Harold U. Ribalow Prize. Sponsored by Hadassah magazine, the prize is awarded each year to a work of fiction with a Jewish theme.

Debra Austin News

2009-07-28T14:18:00.004-04:00

Debra Austin's novel DAUGHTER OF KURA will be in stores next week!

If you're in the Minneapolis area, you can catch the author on KARE 11's Showcase Minnesota on August 14th or get her to sign a book for you at the Borders in Roseville later that night.

Even if you're not in the Twin Cities, you can still learn more about Debra and her book over at her fabulous new website.

More Early Praise for Daughter of Kura

2009-07-08T16:31:00.005-04:00

Debra Austin's DAUGHTER OF KURA has received its second great review!

Library Journal says it's "original and fascinating" and stands out as "well researched and wholly believable."

Read the full review here.

C.J. Box Round-Up

2009-06-30T10:01:00.006-04:00

Barnes and Noble recently featured C.J. Box's BELOW ZERO on its Spotlight page, saying that this latest Joe Pickett novel "could be the best one yet." They call it "beautifully written and constructed, with an art that underplays its excitement and emotional strength."

The Billings-Gazette chimes in with its own effuse praise:

Wyoming author C.J. Box had me hooked with the opening lines of "Open Season," the first of his mysteries featuring game warden Joe Pickett.

The author's skill at plotting, suspense and character were evident quickly in that first novel and have been honed over the years, with more Pickett books and the standalone novels "Three Weeks To Say Goodbye" and "Blue Heaven."

And Box's writing is razor-sharp in his ninth Pickett mystery, "Below Zero."

Unpredictable and thought-provoking, this is the best Pickett novel yet and displays the rich fusion of message and entertaining mystery found in "Free Fire," which was set in Yellowstone National Park.

"Below Zero" rivals "Blue Heaven," which just won the coveted Edgar Allen Poe Award for best novel from the Mystery Writers of America.

Readers new to the Pickett series will best appreciate "Below Zero" if they first read "Winterkill" or, better yet, read the entire series in order. The characters grow throughout the series, and some of the humor and irony tie to earlier works.

But, just on its own, "Below Zero" is a standout mystery showing why Box has built a national and international fan base.

If you're interested in learning more about the author and his latest book, C.J. Box talks about his use of Wyoming as a setting in the Austin American-Statesmen. There's another discussion of the importance of place in his latest novel in the Chicago Tribune. The Lexington Herald-Ledger also examines the way Box addresses important environmental issues in his work.

Below Zero Is Number Two!

2009-06-26T11:58:00.001-04:00

C.J. Box's BELOW ZERO has hit #2 on the Denver Post's bestseller list!

We Think Joe Could Take Jack In A Fight

2009-06-16T16:33:00.005-04:00

Critics continue to rave about Below Zero, C.J. Box's latest Joe Pickett novel. The Associated Press says, "The book is tightly written, with well-drawn characters and sharp dialogue. Box keeps the reader of balance with a series of plot twists as startling as anything on TV's '24.' You never see them coming, yet they never feel contrived."

Better watch out, Jack Bauer!

UPDATE: The author informed us that our earlier statement was a little inaccurate and "Jack would totally pound Joe into jelly," but perhaps Mr. Box missed the last episode of 24, which ended with Jack in a coma. Surely Joe would have no problem winning a fight now!

Early Praise For Daughter of Kura

2009-06-16T16:26:00.004-04:00

Daughter of Kura, a novel by Debra Austin set in Africa 500,000 years ago, will be published in August, and we're thrilled that its first review is so positive.

Publishers Weekly says, "Austin, a former doctor with a serious passion for paleoanthropology, brings exhaustive research and strong writing to her debut" and "accomplishes an extremely difficult task--to get readers to understand a community that resembles both human and animal societies...." They call the novel "a remarkable first effort" and say that the characters "will easily engage readers."

Kathleen George On "The Odds"

2009-06-16T11:39:00.002-04:00

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review recently interviewed Kathleen George about her new novel, THE ODDS. Click here to learn George's thoughts on what the Tribune-Review calls "arguably her best work."

Odds Are Good That She Passed

2009-06-05T10:47:00.004-04:00

Ford Madox Ford once said, "Open the book to page ninety-nine and read, and the quality of the whole will be revealed to you."

Kathleen George applies this test to her own book over at a blog aptly named The Page 99 Test and comments on the results.

For even more Kathleen George, click here for a Q&A with the author.

Kathleen George Is On A Hot Streak!

2009-06-02T10:04:00.005-04:00

Entertainment Weekly just declared, "If anyone's writing better police thrillers than George, I don't know who it is."

Start A Love Affair Of Your Own!

2009-06-01T15:38:00.007-04:00

To celebrate the recent opening of their Modern Wing, the Art Institute of Chicago has chosen My Love Affair with Modern Art, the memoir of Katharine Kuh, their first curator of modern art, as their current book club selection.

Art lovers can find more information, including a discussion guide, here.

Better Than Even Money

2009-06-01T10:22:00.004-04:00

THE ODDS by Kathleen George goes on sale next week!

Library Journal says, "George's fourth crime novel is a truly original tale featuring four amazing youngsters: they are resilient, resourceful, and responsible. This very modern police procedural will not be easily forgotten."

We're not big gamblers, but we'd say that odds are this one's going to be a hit!

Ramblin' Man

2009-05-13T12:29:00.002-04:00

C.J. Box kicks off his book tour for BELOW ZERO next month. Check the dates below to see if he's coming to a town near you!

Sunday, Jun 14 at 2pm

Albany County Public Library

310 South 8th Street

Laramie, WY

Tuesday, June 16 at 7pm

Poisoned Pen

4014 N Goldwater Boulevard, Suite 101

Scottsdale, AZ

Wednesday, June 17 at 7pm

Book People

603 North Lamar Boulevard

Austin, TX

Thursday, June 18 at 6:30pm

Murder by the Book

2342 Bissonnet Street

Houston, TX

Friday, June 19 at 5:30pm

Murder by the Book

1574 South Pearl Street

Denver, CO

Friday, June 19 at 7:30pm

Tattered Cover

1628 16th Street

Denver, CO

Saturday, June 20 at 11am

City Newsstand Bookstore and Coffee House

1722 Carey Avenue

Cheyenne, WY

Monday, June 22 at 7pm

Once Upon A Crime

604 West 26th Street

Minneapolis, MN

Tuesday, June 23 at 7pm

Borders

1500 16th Street, Suite D

Oak Brook, IL

Wednesday, June 24 at 7pm

Mystery One Bookshop

2109 North Prospect Avenue

Milwaukee, WI

Thursday, June 25 at 7pm

Joseph-Beth Booksellers

161 Lexington Green Circle

Lexington, KY

Friday, June 26 at 7pm

Barnes & Noble

4045 South College

Fort Collins, CO

Saturday, June 27 at 3pm

Sheridan Stationery

206 North Main Street

Sheridan, WY

Sunday, June 28 at 3pm

Barnes & Noble

520 S 24th Street West

Billings, MT

Someone's Having A Good Day!

2009-05-01T16:38:00.008-04:00

In other exciting C.J. Box news, BELOW ZERO received a starred review in Library Journal! They proclaim, "Box's series is the gold standard in the western mystery subgenre, and his latest is just as addictive as the others."

And The Winner Is...

2009-05-01T15:59:00.004-04:00

We're absolutely thrilled to tell you that C.J. Box's BLUE HEAVEN won the Edgar Award for Best Novel last night!

Click here for more details. Congratulations, Chuck!

Lights! Camera! Action!

2009-05-01T15:43:00.006-04:00

Our clients are quite the Youtube sensations! We've added a new feature to our website; if you click on the 'videos' tab our clients' pages, you'll see a selection of videos that they're featured in, ranging from interviews and readings to book and movie trailers.

Our favorite video is this haunting book trailer made by a young fan of Laura Whitcomb's A Certain Slant of Light.

PW Says Below Zero Is Box's Best To Date

2009-04-16T15:09:00.003-04:00

We're thrilled to tell you that Publishers Weekly gave C.J. Box's forthcoming Joe Pickett novel Below Zero a starred review this week! They say that "this relentlessly paced powder keg of a thriller could be Box's best to date."

Read the full review here.