Spanning surreal dimensions and speculative realities, Brenda Peynado’s The Rock Eaters uses magical realism to tackle pressing issues from xenophobia to school shootings. Though the collection’s pacing can feel uneven, its standout stories offer deeply impactful narratives on identity and belonging.
Step back into the labyrinth of Hawthorne House. This offers fans a deeper look into the romance, secrets, and high-stakes puzzles of the Hawthorne brothers. While best read as a companion to the original trilogy, these stories provide a fascinating psychological look at family expectations and the drive for approval.