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Staff Picks February 2026 Reviews and Recommendations from Our Adult and Teen Services Staff |
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Meghan recommends: NOS4A2 by Joe HillWhen Charles Talent Manx, an unstoppable monster who transforms children into his own terrifying likeness, kidnaps her son, Victoria McQueen, the only person to ever escape his unmitigated evil, must engage in a life-and-death battle of wills to get her son back. "... a successful exercise in spookiness" (Kirkus Reviews). |
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Karen recommends: Nothing More Dangerous by Allen EskensA high school boy growing up in the Ozark hills rethinks his understanding of the world, race and class when he befriends a black family that moves in across the street. "Eskens does an excellent job of weaving [the] disparate threads together into a fine blend of mystery and coming-of-age novel. The setting is spot-on, the characters are empathetic and well realized, and the plot is clever and compelling, building suspense until a harrowing denouement reveals all" (Booklist). |
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Mary recommends: We Do Not Part by Kang HanAs Kyungha braves a treacherous snowstorm on Jeju Island to save her injured friend's pet, she unwittingly embarks on a journey that blurs reality and memory, uncovering a hidden chapter of Korean history and the enduring power of friendship amidst forgotten violence. "Kang is at the top of her game" (Publishers Weekly). |
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Carly recommends: The Love Wager by Lynn PainterHallie Piper is turning over a new leaf. After belly-crawling out of a hotel room (hello, rock bottom), she decides it's time to become a full-on adult. She gets a new apartment, a new haircut, and a new wardrobe, but when she logs onto the dating app that she has determined will find her new love, she sees none other than Jack, the guy whose room she snuck out of. After the joint agreement that they are absolutely not interested in each other, Jack and Hallie become partners in their respective searches for The One. Discouraged by the lack of prospects, Jack and Hallie make a wager to see who can find true love first. |
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Kristin recommends: The Dentist: A DS George Cross Mystery by Tim SullivanIn Bristol, autistic, awkward, and brilliant detective George Cross investigates a homeless man’s murder, uncovering a link to a cold case as his relentless focus and attention to detail impel him to pursue justice in the face of his colleagues’ doubts. "Sullivan strikes gold his first time out, injecting investigative scenes with a cinematic flair and firmly establishing Cross as a quirky, lovable lead" (Publishers Weekly). |
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Roseanne recommends: Happily Never After by Lynn PainterTheir name? The objectors. Their job? To break off weddings as hired. Their dilemma? They might just be in love with each other. "A rom-com for the cynics, Painter's (The Love Wager) latest is peppered with sarcasm while the heat remains at a low sizzle. The supporting cast is equally funny and helps to round out an entertaining yarn that doesn't take itself too seriously" (Library Journal). |
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Abby recommends: In Your Dreams by Sarah AdamsMadison Walker left Rome, Kentucky, determined to make it in the culinary world. But after years of chasing success in New York, all she has to show for it is her shattered confidence and a desperate need for a fresh start. Coming home isn’t part of the plan—until an unexpected job offer lands in her lap: the head chef position at a new farm-to-table restaurant in her hometown. The only catch? It comes from James Huxley, owner of Huxley Farm, her brother’s best friend. Madison and James are tasked with launching the dreamy restaurant in record time, but keeping things strictly professional soon becomes impossible, and the town can’t help but meddle in their relationship. |
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Mallory recommends: The Heart Principle by Helen HoangWhen she suddenly loses her ability to play the violin, Anna Sun must learn to listen to her heart and falls in love with a man her parents disapprove of, forcing her to choose between meeting expectations and finding happiness in who she really is. "Readers shouldn’t expect a typical rom-com, but many will still swoon for this sensitive love story" (Publishers Weekly). |
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"A great addition to vegan cookbook shelves, offering a multitude of options that will spark culinary creativity" (Library Journal). |
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