We thought we had it hard last month, but April was so much harder!

JJJ went through two stacks of books for our ultimate picks and the book we just could not put down is “Grave Mercy” by Robin LaFevers.

WHAT IT’S ABOUT: Escaping from the brutality of an arranged marriage, seventeen-year-old Ismae finds sanctuary at the convent of St. Mortain. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts — and a violent destiny

WHY WE READ IT TWICE: Being transported back into history is something that will always attract us. Learning about real historical figures (Anne of Brittany) when it’s not in an encyclopedia, in the midst of another story. We loved it. We also loved learning about the traditions, what was acceptable and the choices Ismae has to make.

“Grave Mercy” is out on shelves NOW, go get a copy!

HONORABLE MENTIONS: “The Springsweet” by Saundra Mitchell, “Immortal City” by Scott Speer, “Above” by Leah Bobet, “Glamour in Glass” by Mary Robinette Kowal, “Glimmer” by Phoebe Kitanidis, “The Nightworld” by Jack Blaine and “The Selection” by Keira Cass.