Holly Tucker, Editor-in-Chief
Remember in Harry Potter when the owls drop thousands of letters on the front porch, down the chimney…everywhere?
That’s sometimes how it feels at my house.
As Editor of Wonders & Marvels, I receive all sorts of books for consideration on the site. There is rarely a day when fewer than one, two, three or more books show up at my door.
Many of these, publicists send in the hopes a book will catch the eye. Others, I request. In any case, I’m always happy to get a visit from the book owls.
I’m always on the prowl for new books on topics that will interest W&M readers. I scour Publisher’s Weekly, publisher’s catalogues, and read tons of book reviews. My coffee table, computer desk, and nightstand are full of books in various states of reading.
When one really grabs me, I reach out to the author and invite them to share something about their book with our readers. But it has to be a really compelling book. And it has to be well-writted and meticulously researched. (That goes for both nonfiction and historical fiction.)
There it is, that’s the unscientific process of how it’s done. That’s how we consistently bring great posts about the hidden stories of history.
But sometimes there is a book that is just so unforgettable, so amazing, that a guest post just doesn’t do the trick.
Karen Abbott’s Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy is one of them.
By way of disclaimer, I count Abbott as a friend. She’s also a regular contributor on Wonders & Marvels. (And, FYI, she prefers to be called by her last name.)
But none of this matters. What matters is that the book is good, really good. I had the privilege to read the book in drafts as it was slowly taking form. And not long ago, I read an advance copy of the final version. Even being already super-familiar with the story by now, I could not put it down.
Abbott has an uncanny ability to bring the past to life. Her story of four spies, all women, captures the drama, intrigue, and deep human dimension of the Civil War.
Wonders & Marvels has paired with Abbott to provide a special weekly newsletter that provides a behind-the-scenes look into Civil War espionage.
Sign up for Abbott’s newsletter! You’ll be glad you did.
Rumor has it there are some very special treats in store for subscribers to the Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy newsletter—including some messages written in hidden ink.
Have a great week!
Holly
(p.s. Know of any great titles we won’t want to miss? As always, feel free to shoot me an email!)