We presents “Wednesday Wisdom: 7 Books to Add to Your Reading List in August.” From historical fiction to thrillers, each book in this list offers a unique narrative that will captivate readers. Whether you’re looking for a thought-provoking story, a heartwarming romance, or a suspenseful mystery, these books are perfect for your next reading adventure. Dive into these carefully selected titles and discover new worlds, compelling characters, and unforgettable stories.

1.By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult

This novel presents a compelling story centered around Emilia Bassano, a woman living in 1581 who feels trapped by society’s expectations. As Lord Chamberlain’s mistress, she has a unique access to England’s theatrical world. However, Emilia wishes to leave her mark in history and indeed, does so by hiring William Shakespeare to pen her work under his name. This book explores themes of gender, creativity, and recognition, presenting a rich narrative that questions how far one will go for artistic validation.

2. There Are Rivers in the Sky by Elif Shafak

Elif Shafak’s novel weaves together the lives of several characters throughout history. It starts in ancient Nineveh and journeys through time, touching on themes such as the importance of literature and identity. As tales of a London publisher’s apprentice in the 1840s and a Yazidi girl in modern-day Turkey unfold, the narrative highlights how personal stories are shaped by history and culture14. This book serves as a reminder of storytelling’s power in bridging generations and diverse backgrounds.

3. The Housekeeper’s Secret by Iona Grey

This romantic tale follows Kate Furniss, a housekeeper hiding from her past who unexpectedly finds her life disrupted when a new footman with secrets arrives. The storyline oscillates between their passionate love affair in 1911 and Jem’s experiences during WWI, intertwining themes of love, regret, and sacrifice. It’s an emotional exploration of not only romantic entanglements but resilience in facing one’s past.

4. This is Why We Lied by Karl Slaughter

In a twisty murder mystery, investigators Will Trent and Sara Linton head to a secluded lodge for their honeymoon, only to find themselves entangled in a murder case when the lodge manager is found dead. They must navigate a web of lies and secrets among guests who have ulterior motives. This novel delivers a thrilling concoction of suspense and human psychology, keeping readers guessing until the very end.

5. The Seventh Veil of Salome by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Set in 1950s Hollywood, this novel revolves around actresses vying for the titular role of Salome in a big-budget film. Vera Larios, an unknown Mexican actress, faces envy and treachery as she navigates the cutthroat world of showbiz. This storyline delves deep into themes of ambition, jealousy, and the challenges faced by women in the industry, granting readers a revealing look at the historical context of fame.

6. Apprentice to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

Continuing from the bestselling Assistant to the Villain, this novel follows Evie Sage as she transforms from merely assisting a notorious villain to discovering her own power and resolve. While details about the sequel remain scarce, readers can anticipate further character development and an exploration of the blurred lines between good and evil. This book promises a blend of adventure and romance.

7. House of Bone and Rain by Gabino Iglesias

An intriguing blend of horror and suspense, this story follows a group seeking vengeance in Puerto Rico after a maternal tragedy. It dives into profound themes of loss and retribution, captivating readers with its character-driven narrative and haunting atmosphere. The writing is rich and immersive, pulling readers into its eerie embrace.

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