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Indie books have a charm and authenticity that’s hard to find elsewhere. They offer unique perspectives, uncharted narratives, and the raw creativity of independent authors who pour their souls into their work. These books may not have the same marketing buzz as mainstream titles, but trust me when I say they are absolute gems waiting to be discovered.
In this handpicked selection, you’ll find a thrilling love story that will keep you on the edge of your seat, a dystopian odyssey that will challenge your perception of language, a mythical mystery where fantasy meets Sherlock Holmes, and more. These books span a variety of genres and themes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Here are the best indie books for July 2023:
The Fall Will Probably Kill You! by Brian McMahon
Oh, love stories! They have the power to make our hearts soar, break, and everything in between.
The Fall Will Probably Kill You! by Brian McMahon promises a thrilling rollercoaster ride right from the start. Teddy Thompson’s love for Charlotte Pennington has been a constant in his life since second grade. But when they both end up at Georgetown, Teddy’s dreams are shattered as Charlotte falls for his roommate.
McMahon weaves a tale of power, manipulation, fixation, and delusion, drawing us into a web of intrigue and suspense. Get ready to be captivated by this love story that twists and turns, taking us to a daunting precipice. You won’t be able to put it down!
A Plague of Mercies by Adam Pelzman
With recent events, stories that touch on our collective experiences gain a new level of resonance.
A Plague of Mercies by Adam Pelzman is a powerful exploration of humanity during a lethal global plague. Gabriel, confined to his small New York apartment during the lockdown, observes the struggles of his neighbors as they try to survive a world on the brink of extinction.
Through Gabriel’s observations, we witness the triumphs and tragedies of individuals battling isolation, fear, and impending death.
Told in powerful free verse, Pelzman’s words paint a vivid picture of resilience and connection amidst adversity. Brace yourself for a deeply moving and thought-provoking read that will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
Detective Death by Darius Ebrahimi
Fantasy enthusiasts, rejoice! Detective Death by Darius Ebrahimi blends elements of fantasy and mystery in a way that will leave you wanting more.
Enter the world where Zarik, a sarcastic death god, yearns for a fresh start after centuries of being known as a demon. Released from his eternal duties, Zarik finds himself entangled in an intricate web of mythical mysteries and supernatural beings. Join forces with the extraordinary detective Scarlett Wolfe as they unravel secrets, confront past mistakes, and battle a manipulative killer.
With witty banter and a dose of supernatural charm, this book will keep you entertained from the first page to the last.
The Babel Apocalypse by Vyvyan Evans
If you’re a fan of dystopian worlds and mind-bending adventures, then The Babel Apocalypse by Vyvyan Evans is a must-read.
In this thought-provoking cyberpunk odyssey, language is no longer learned but streamed to neural implants controlled by big tech corporations. The fringes of society are inhabited by those who can’t afford language streaming services, and everything hinges on the control of this valuable commodity.
When a global language outage caused by a massive cyberattack threatens catastrophe, Europol detective Emyr Morgan is thrust into a world of corporate power and secrets. Join Emyr as he navigates loyalty, betrayal, and a race against time to prevent the impending collapse of civilization.
Prepare to question the very essence of language and its impact on our society.
Sometimes When I’m Worried by Deborah Serani
Children’s books have a special place in our hearts, and Sometimes When I’m Worried is a heartfelt tale that tackles a common childhood emotion—worry.
Written by Dr. Deborah Serani Psy.D. and beautifully illustrated by Kyra Teis, this book takes young readers on a journey of understanding and coping with worry and anxiety.
Through the eyes of the main character, children will learn practical strategies to manage their worries and find comfort in the support of loved ones.
The gentle illustrations and relatable narrative create a safe space for children to explore their feelings. It’s not just a book; it’s a valuable tool for children and adults alike to navigate the complexities of worry in a healthy and empowering way.
Healing Visions by Meg Boscov
Prepare to be enchanted by the ethereal beauty of Healing Visions. In this unique anthology, fifty-two international writers respond to the captivating images of award-winning fine art photographer Meg Boscov.
Each writer weaves exactly one-hundred words around Boscov’s photographs, resulting in a collection that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit. As you turn the pages, you’ll be transported to colorful and vibrant narratives that arise against the backdrop of our seemingly ever-darkening world.
Not only will you be immersed in breathtaking art, but you’ll also contribute to a good cause as all proceeds from this Kirkus-starred book go to groups fighting for women’s rights everywhere. Dive into this inspiring collaboration and embark on a healing journey through words and images.
Final thoughts
Each of these novels offers a unique and captivating reading experience. Whether you’re craving romance, dystopian adventures, mythical mysteries, heartwarming tales, or thought-provoking anthologies, this selection has something for every literary taste. So, pick up a copy, support independent authors, and embark on a literary journey that will transport you to new and exciting worlds. Happy reading!