Recommendations from Freading.com

I don't know about you, but one of my favorite things to do on the web is browse the library's online catalog. Not only is the “regular” catalog available, but my library subscribes to two different eBook services: Freading and Overdrive. Now, most everyone knows all about Overdrive, but discovering Freading is like stumbling across a hidden jewel. You're unlikely to find any recent releases at Freading, but it's just full of excellent books, many of which are backlist titles being released to the eReader market.

The one, glaring, fault at Freading is their catalog itself. I have talked with several people who say they just cannot find anything to read at Freading. Because of the weak search engine, they tend to give up when it comes time to look for a book. So, here are some recommendations for books you can borrow with Freading. (And, as far as I know, they're all available for purchase from your favorite eBook seller.) Unlike most of my posts, the cover images are linked to the Freading catalog rather than to Amazon.com.

 

Among the new books, the first to catch my attention were the five books in a mystery series headlined by newly ordained Father Neil. Later adapted into a beloved British situation comedy (whose name is based on the first book in the series, Bless Me, Father) these books are a humorous look at Catholicism in the 1950s. Father Neil’s adventures with his parishioners are sure to delight readers of all creeds.

 

Lovers of epic fantasy may want to check out the Solace trilogy by Anna Steffl. The first book, Seeking Solace, follows Arvana, a faithful follower of the Maker as she leaves her cloistered residence in search of a champion to fight a dragon. She finds two—Prince Chane Lerouge and Captain Degarius. Not only will the champion best the dragon, he will also win her heart. I'm told that there's a hefty dose of romance in with the magic, fantasy, and adventure. Very high ratings on Amazon and Goodreads. Should be good reading.

 

I almost overlooked a series of young adult mysteries because of the author's name. The Elery Queen Jr. series (also known as the Djuna series from the name of the main character) consists of eleven titles originally published between 1941 and 1966. Ellery Queen’s young apprentice, Djuna, assisted by his scottie, Champ, are on the spot to crack the case and catch the scoundrels in a series filled with rollicking good fun. Coming soon...you'll want to start at the beginning with The Black Dog Mystery.