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The article highlights several upcoming books that focus on lesser-known or marginalized mythological figures. Natasha Pulley's "The Hymn to Dionysus" sheds light on the often overlooked aspects of the Greek god Dionysus, emphasizing his association with madness. Kritika H. Rao's "The Legend of Meneka" tells the story of Meneka, a celestial nymph who is usually overshadowed by the human sage Kaushika. Other books mentioned include A.S. Webb's "Daughter of Chaos," Lauren J.A. Bear's "Mother of Rome," Emily Rath's "North Is the Night," and Amal El-Mohtar's "The River Has Roots." These books offer diverse perspectives and explore lesser-known characters from various mythologies. [Extracted from the article]

"I Think They Love You" by Julian Winters is a romance novel that follows Denz, the social media director at his family's event planning firm in Atlanta. When his father announces his retirement, Denz and his sister compete to become the new CEO. Denz plans to fake date his best friend Jamie to prove his readiness for the position, but his ex-boyfriend Braylon reappears and becomes his fake boyfriend instead. As Denz navigates his feelings for Braylon and his professional anxieties, he must make important decisions about his life, love, career, and family. The book combines heartfelt moments with witty banter and explores the theme of authenticity. [Extracted from the article]

"Legend of the White Snake" by Sher Lee is a queer retelling of a Chinese folktale. The story follows Prince Xian, who is searching for a cure for his mother's illness. He meets Zhen, a snake who has swallowed a spirit pearl and can shape-shift into a human. As they fall in love, Zhen struggles with revealing his true identity. This book features lush worldbuilding and pays homage to Chinese xianxia fantasy dramas. Recommended for ages 13 and up. [Extracted from the article]

BESTSELLERSThe romantasy Throne of Secrets by Kerri Maniscalco is the #6 book in the country. The "alluring 'Cinderella' retelling with an enemies-to-lovers twist," per our starred review, follows the first installment of the Prince of Sin series, 2023's Throne of the Fallen. First-week print unit sales have ascended since book one.PHOTO (COLOR): First-Week Print Unit Sales for the Prince of Sin seriesPHOTO (COLOR) [Extracted from the article]

"Makeover Challenge" from Publishers Weekly highlights the return of three popular books in deluxe hardcover formats. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid, originally published in 2017, has sold a significant number of copies in both hardcover and trade paperback editions. Travis Baldree's cozy fantasy series, Legends & Lattes and Bookshops & Bonedust, also make their hardcover debuts in deluxe editions. [Extracted from the article]

"The Starlight Heir" by Amalie Howard is a romantasy novel set in the kingdom of Oryndhr. The story follows Suraya Saab, a young woman who lives a modest life in the desert city of Coban. Suraya's life takes a dramatic turn when she receives an invitation to join the pool of women vying to become the Crown Prince's bride. As Suraya navigates court politics, rebel attacks, and mystical trials, she must confront her own doubts and unravel ancient prophecies. The book features sharp dialogue, rich worldbuilding with Indian, Middle Eastern, and Caribbean influences, and a strong female protagonist. [Extracted from the article]

"Mama Hug" is a children's book written by Emma Straub and illustrated by Stevie Lewis. The book follows the daily routine of a mother and child through concise rhymes and warm illustrations. The story highlights the close bond between the two characters, showcasing moments of love and affection. The book is suitable for children up to the age of 3 and promotes the idea of unconditional love. [Extracted from the article]

"Queen of Fury" by Natania Barron is a disappointing sequel that combines the Arthurian grail quest with the myths of Sir Gawain and Dame Ragnelz and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. The story follows Hwyfar Adwenna, who becomes regent of Avillion and must save the dying land from her father's half-brother, Prince Ryence of Ys. Sir Gawain is sent to assist Hwyfar, but instead, they fall in love. However, the romance feels forced and the reinterpretations of Arthurian legends are confusing. Overall, there are better options for lovers of Arthuriana. [Extracted from the article]

"The Wild Huntress" by Emily Lloyd-Jones is a captivating young adult novel set in a world inspired by Welsh folklore. The story follows Gwydion, the prince of Gwynedd, who hires monster hunter Branwen to help him infiltrate the Wild Hunt, a deadly contest held by the immortal Otherking of Annwvyn. Their true purpose is discovered by Prince Pryderi of Dyfed, but despite their conflicting goals, the three form a strong bond and must navigate treacherous challenges together. The book explores themes of friendship, magic, and betrayal, and is recommended for readers aged 12 and up. [Extracted from the article]

"Heir" by Sabaa Tahir is a propulsive and action-packed duology that takes place 20 years after the events of the Ember in the Ashes series. The story follows two main characters, Aiz and Sirsha, as they navigate a world threatened by both human and supernatural forces. Aiz, an orphaned Kegari-born, escapes prison to find the all-powerful cleric who can save her people from a false prophet. Meanwhile, Sirsha, a banished Jaduna tracker, is contracted to hunt a killer targeting children. The book expertly balances a diverse cast of characters and builds on established lore, making it an engaging read for both longtime fans and newcomers. [Extracted from the article]

"The Royals Upstairs" by Karina Halle is a contemporary fiction novel that continues the story of characters introduced in previous books by the author. The story follows Scottish bodyguard James Hunter as he takes a job in Norway to protect the children of Prince Magnus and Princess Ella. Unbeknownst to James, his former lover Laila Bruset is the nanny to these royal children. The book explores their complicated relationship and the challenges they face in finding happiness together. While the characters may feel somewhat flat, the intense sexual chemistry between them adds depth to the story. Fans of aristocratic settings will enjoy this book, although some may desire more depth in the overall narrative. [Extracted from the article]

"Fledgling (The Keeper's Records of Revolution #1)" by S.K. Ali is a postapocalyptic dystopian novel that follows the intertwined stories of Raisa Freelund and Nada Verg. Raisa, the daughter of the Guardian of Upper Earth, is preparing for a political marriage with Lower Earth's Crown Prince Lein Verg in an attempt to create an alliance between their peoples. However, Nada, a former princess and political prisoner, is determined to stop the alliance and prevent the enslavement of Lower Earth by Upper Earth. The novel explores themes of freedom, revolution, and the complexities of love and loyalty. While occasionally didactic, the book sets the stage for a sequel with its intricate worldbuilding and diverse cast of characters. Recommended for readers aged 14 and up. [Extracted from the article]

"The Neon Prince: The Neon God, Book 2" by R.M. Gayler is a thrilling science fiction/fantasy/horror novel that follows a special boy named Mason and his digitized best friend, Prince, on a quest to save the world from the control of technology. Mason has the ability to rescue people from the dangerous trance of neon lights, and with Prince, he believes they are on a knight's quest to stop Mordred and save humanity. The novel explores the consequences of a screen-centric future, including mass suicides and neglect of physical bodies, as well as fears about AI sentience. The worldbuilding is complex but engaging, and the plot surprises and shocks readers. This book is recommended for fans of M.T. Anderson's "Feed" and Cory Doctorow's "Little Brother." [Extracted from the article]

"The Purple One: A Story of Prince" by Matthew Burgess, illustrated by Sirin Thada, is a children's book that tells the story of Prince Rogers Nelson, the iconic musician. The book highlights Prince's journey from a small-statured child to a larger-than-life figure in the music industry. It emphasizes Prince's hard work, creative vision, and on-stage presence. The illustrations depict diverse characters, and the book includes creators' notes and quotation sources. Recommended for ages 6-9. [Extracted from the article]

In "That Prince Is Mine" by Jayci Lee, the protagonist Emma Yoon is a Korean royal court cuisine instructor who dreams of opening a culinary school. She is looking for a practical marriage and uses a matchmaker's method to find a partner. However, when she meets a kind and handsome stranger named Michel Chevalier, who is actually the prince of a fictional European nation, she is drawn to him. They begin an affair, but Michel must eventually reveal his true identity. The book attempts to incorporate Korean royal court culture but falls short with a predictable plot and flat characters. [Extracted from the article]

"Stefi and the Spanish Prince" by Donna Freitas is a young adult novel set in Barcelona. Stefi, a seventeen-year-old aspiring pastry chef, meets Xavier, the secret love child of King Alfonso and heir to the Spanish throne. As they fall in love, they face challenges from Xavi's ex-girlfriend and a gossip magazine reporter. The book also explores a queer romantic subplot and tensions between Catalonia and the Madrid government. The story is described as a fairy tale-like romance with lush sensory detail and a focus on food. [Extracted from the article]

"Maelstrom: A Prince of Evil" by Lorian Merriman is a thrilling fantasy graphic novel that subverts traditional fantasy tropes. The story follows Maelstrom, the half-demon son of Lady Renova, a powerful necromancer. When a rebel assassin named Twigs, the reborn Hero of Virtue, attempts to kidnap Maelstrom, he sees an opportunity to create an exciting origin story for himself. However, as their alliance develops, Maelstrom discovers that Twigs and his mother may not be who they seem. The book features diverse characters and offers a mix of dry humor and simmering romance. Recommended for readers aged 12 and up. [Extracted from the article]

For 25 years, St. Nicholas, one of Hollywood's most acclaimed photographers, worked closely with the enigmatic Prince, capturing some of his most intimate and revealing moments both on and off stage. Is an up-close look at the artist featuring hundreds of photographs taken at his home, on tour, and on his many adventures around the world. Accompanying the images are behind-the-scenes stories, and St. Nicholas's personal insights on the big and small moments she shared with Prince. [Extracted from the article]

St. Nicholas chronicles the life and intimate moments of one of rock's most enigmatic artists with this collection of stunning, lavish photographs. When St. Nicholas and Prince collaborated on their 2008 book, 21 Nights, they discussed putting together a retrospective of photographs spanning their 20-plus years of working together. St. Nicholas captures Prince's arresting beauty in a number of disarming photos from 1991 in which Prince stares directly into the camera or creates an intimacy even in his disarming glance away. [Extracted from the article]