THE TRAIN OF SMALL MERCIES by David Rowell

 

In 1968, the train carrying Robert F. Kennedy’s body traveled from New York to Washington D.C.  This debut novel imagines several lives, from among the thousands who gathered along the tracks, and how this national tragedy affected them.

THE SCHOOLMASTER’S DAUGHTER by John Smolens

 

Boston on the brink of revolution provides the setting for the story of Abigail, one of three children of the headmaster of the Boston Latin School.  Her father is loyal to the Crown;  his children feel differently.  Abigail is increasingly torn between family loyalty and belief in independence.

IF JACK’S IN LOVE by Stephen Wetta

 

Twelve-year-old Jack narrates the story of his troubled family and its impact on his romantic feelings toward the lovely Myra, in this sometimes dark but mostly charming debut novel.