SNAG A COPY. You may find yourself captivated by these recently published reads, all written by authors local to the Chippewa Valley. With themes of friendship, love, fantasy, and resilience — there is something for every person to add to their summer reading list. (Photo via Unsplash)

Three differing worlds unfold within the pages of these new releases, each woven together by local authors to the Chippewa Valley. From a fantasy tournament where fates collide and love battles for victory; to a high school journey of self-discovery; to the quirky relationships between humans and their animal companions — prepare to be captivated by themes of resilience, the importance of friendships, and the humor found in everyday occurrences.

Unsinkable Stone book cover. 

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Unsinkable Stone. Emilie Worre Menz shares a new narrative on the heartfelt exploration of Sadie Stone’s unraveling world as she navigates through high school. This novel reveals themes of unraveling love, heartbreak, and self discovery — with the ultimate hope of new friendships and family along the way. Sadie soon discovers her own testaments to resilience, the power of forgiveness, and staying true to herself amidst life’s unpredictable nature.

Emilie Worre Menz's debut novel, Unsinkable Stone, introduces a compelling new voice from this Chippewa Valley author. Worre Menz offers insightful portrayals of teenage experiences and weaves narratives that leave one eager for more of her storytelling. They currently collaborate with local storefronts like La Dee Dah Specialty Gifts & Haberdashery (311 Main St E, Menomonie) to share her written work and to establish herself as a storyteller in the community.

Purchase a copy of Unsinkable Stone online through Amazon, or in-person at La Dee Dah Specialty Gifts & Haberdashery.

Nepetism: When Fur is Thicker Than Water book cover.

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Nepetism: When fur is thicker than water. Humans and animals have always held a symbiotic relationship, but never before has it been so peculiar. Ben Heer has put together a series of cartoons based on the relationships between pets of all kinds, and humans. Those who have a close connection to their animals will note, it doesn't take long to discover who is really in control.

Ben Heer's passion for comic strip illustration began in the fourth grade. His art over the years has been published in student newspapers, books, and even Hoard's Dairyman. After five years in professional theater and other jobs, Heer returned to his family farm in 2020. Nepetism marks his third published book, following the footsteps of his self-published comic strip, 40 Days Fresh.

Purchase a copy of Nepetism: When Fur is Thicker Than Water online through Barnes and Noble.

 

Stormvalor book cover.

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Stormvalor, stormborn chronicles book one. In Stormvalor, Aethan and Aslyn face trials in a prestigious tournament where the kingdoms' fates hang in the balance. Their paths intersect by the threads of fate and their parents’ wishes for an arranged marriage. Bast Blackblade, a hardened assassin, seeks to disrupt their romance for his own gain, forcing them all to confront their beliefs — and pay the price of victory and love.

Starr Z. Davies, a true Midwesterner at heart, developed a talent for emotionally devastating characters while studying creative writing, earning the nickname "Character Assassin"— a practice she continues through this newly released novel. Her fascination with superheroes, along with her passion for ancient history, fuels her creative literature.

Purchase a copy of Stormvalor online through www.starrzdavies.com.