Fans pick 86 books like Southern Bound

By Stuart Jaffe,

Here are 86 books that Southern Bound fans have personally recommended if you like Southern Bound. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of In Plain Sight

Paul W. Papa Author Of Night Mayer: Legend of the Skinwalker

From my list on offbeat noir you need to read.

Why am I passionate about this?

So why have I chosen noir? I’m glad you asked. Ever since I picked up my first Raymond Chandler book—The Lady in the Lake—I have been a fan of the genre, so much so that I write in it almost exclusively. I watch all the old movies on Noir Alley every Saturday night—or whenever I can find one on TV. And while I tend to gravitate to the works of Raymond Chandler, Dashiell Hammet, and Erle Stanley Gardner, I'm always on the hunt for new authors. I also very much enjoy when someone takes the genre in a new direction, which is why I created this list.

Paul's book list on offbeat noir you need to read

Paul W. Papa Why did Paul love this book?

I love books that mash up genres and Dan Will has done just that with this first offering in his Arcane Casebook series. His hero, Alexander Lockerby, is a man after my own heart—a noir detective through and through. Only this fedora-wearing gumshoe has a little extra zing up his sleevemagic. He’s a runewright, and while I have to admit I didn’t know what that was when I began the book, it became perfectly clear by the end. I won’t ruin it for you, but suffice it to say, it’s aces with the noir genre—a man gifted with certain talents, but not ones enough to gain him the easy life. This story starts out simple, but takes little time to grab you by the collar and slap you across the kisser. And the good news? There are eight more to keep it company. 

By Dan Willis,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked In Plain Sight as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

It was 1933 and the magic…

…brought a plague to the Big Apple.

Will Alex be able to stop a madman?

At 31-years old, Alex has limited powers, but a knack for unraveling a mystery. The first clue leads him to a thief, but it doesn’t stop there. When people started dying, it becomes clear that it wasn’t an ordinary spell. Could it have something to do with the book?

A legendary and ancient tome could be the key.

But can he find it?

When an unfortunate incident gets him in hot water with both the police and New York’s…


Book cover of The Lemon Man

Paul W. Papa Author Of Night Mayer: Legend of the Skinwalker

From my list on offbeat noir you need to read.

Why am I passionate about this?

So why have I chosen noir? I’m glad you asked. Ever since I picked up my first Raymond Chandler book—The Lady in the Lake—I have been a fan of the genre, so much so that I write in it almost exclusively. I watch all the old movies on Noir Alley every Saturday night—or whenever I can find one on TV. And while I tend to gravitate to the works of Raymond Chandler, Dashiell Hammet, and Erle Stanley Gardner, I'm always on the hunt for new authors. I also very much enjoy when someone takes the genre in a new direction, which is why I created this list.

Paul's book list on offbeat noir you need to read

Paul W. Papa Why did Paul love this book?

When most people think of noir, they think of a cynical fedora-wearing, trenchcoated detective wisecracking his way through a mystery, and while that is part of the genre, it isn’t the whole of it. Noir can be funny, but that humor needs to be dark, and cynicism is a definite component. All of that is included in this book and it’s delivered with an Irish twist. Bruton’s hitman, Patrick Callen, who rides a bike through the streets of Dublin, is a man who likes lists: To-Do List: Kill Henry O’Neil, Meet the Bronze Man, Buy Food, Sleep with Olivia, Bike Shop, Visit Ma. But when he finds a baby on the job, it interrupts both his list and his life. A hitman and a baby—if that doesn’t make you want to read the book, nothing will.

By Keith Bruton,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Lemon Man as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

TASKS:
1. Buy Food. 2. Visit Ma. 3. Kill Henry O’Neil

The Lemon Man is Patrick Callen, a bicycle-riding hitman with mild O.C.D. in Dublin, Ireland whose carefully ordered life is totally upended when he becomes the accidental caretaker of a baby boy. Now he’s got to balance his daily to-do list of errands and murders-for-hire with his unexpected domesticity, which impacts him and his work in ways he never expected…and that could get him killed.

Praise for THE LEMON MAN:

A Deadly Pleasures Magazine Top 10 Paperback of 2022: "If you are a fan of quirky characters, you will…


Book cover of But Not Forgotten

Paul W. Papa Author Of Night Mayer: Legend of the Skinwalker

From my list on offbeat noir you need to read.

Why am I passionate about this?

So why have I chosen noir? I’m glad you asked. Ever since I picked up my first Raymond Chandler book—The Lady in the Lake—I have been a fan of the genre, so much so that I write in it almost exclusively. I watch all the old movies on Noir Alley every Saturday night—or whenever I can find one on TV. And while I tend to gravitate to the works of Raymond Chandler, Dashiell Hammet, and Erle Stanley Gardner, I'm always on the hunt for new authors. I also very much enjoy when someone takes the genre in a new direction, which is why I created this list.

Paul's book list on offbeat noir you need to read

Paul W. Papa Why did Paul love this book?

I have to admit, this book is a bit of a personal indulgence. I’ve always been fascinated by the swamps of Louisiana and the mysteries that hide in those murky waters. Add a human arm in the mouth of an alligator and you’ve definitely gotten my attention. Some day I’m going to write a book that is set there—I just haven’t figured out a storyline yet—but when I do, I hope it’s half as good as BJ Bourg’s first book in his Clint Wolf series. I know it’s a cliché, but this book really did grab me from the start and, I guarantee, the end of the first chapter will haunt you, just as it haunts Clint Wolf.   

By BJ Bourg,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked But Not Forgotten as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Embattled former detective Clint Wolf is the newly appointed police chief for Mechant Loup, a small swampy town in southeast Louisiana. Usually a quiet town, the tranquility of the place is shattered when a human arm is found in the jowls of an alligator. Once it’s determined the arm belongs to a reputable business owner, the race is on to find the man and figure out what happened to him. Little does Clint know that solving the case could unearth a plot so evil it would go down as the worst event in Louisiana history . . . and he…


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Book cover of Evil Alice and the Borzoi

Evil Alice and the Borzoi By DK Coutant,

Cleo Cooper, a cross-cultural psychology professor, is living the dream on the Big Island of Hawaii. With ocean-dipping weekends, she enjoys her dog, her job, and her boyfriend Ben - until the day she’s on a research vessel and a dead body is caught in the dragline.

The police determine…

Book cover of The Case of the Velvet Claws

Paul W. Papa Author Of Night Mayer: Legend of the Skinwalker

From my list on offbeat noir you need to read.

Why am I passionate about this?

So why have I chosen noir? I’m glad you asked. Ever since I picked up my first Raymond Chandler book—The Lady in the Lake—I have been a fan of the genre, so much so that I write in it almost exclusively. I watch all the old movies on Noir Alley every Saturday night—or whenever I can find one on TV. And while I tend to gravitate to the works of Raymond Chandler, Dashiell Hammet, and Erle Stanley Gardner, I'm always on the hunt for new authors. I also very much enjoy when someone takes the genre in a new direction, which is why I created this list.

Paul's book list on offbeat noir you need to read

Paul W. Papa Why did Paul love this book?

My last book may seem like an odd choice, but, as they say, there is a method to my madness. Erle Stanly Gardner created a character in the form of Perry Mason that became a television icon in the late 50s with more than 270 episodes. However, simply put, the man on the television is nothing like the man in the books. So, if you want to know the real Perry Mason, you need to start with the first book in Gardner’s series:The Case of the Velvet Claws. This book is noir at it’s finest, by a master of the craft, with a femme fatal that defines the term. This is my favorite of all the Gardner books because it delivers a hardboiled punch—one that’s not easy to forget.   

By Erle Stanley Gardner,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Case of the Velvet Claws as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Criminal lawyer and bestselling mystery author Erle Stanley Gardner wrote nearly 150 novels that have sold 300 million copies worldwide. Now, the American Bar Association is bringing back his most famous and enduring novels-featuring criminal defense lawyer and sleuth Perry Mason-in striking trade paperback editions. Married Eva Griffin has been caught with a prominent congressman, and is ready to pay the editor of a sleazy tabloid hush money to protect the politician. But first Perry Mason tracks down the publisher of the blackmailing tabloid and discovers a shocking secret, which eventually leads to Mason being accused of murder. This is…


Book cover of History of the Lost State of Franklin

Lori Benton Author Of The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn

From my list on the Lost State of Franklin.

Why am I passionate about this?

Lori Benton is an award-winning, multi-published author of historical novels set during 18th century North America. Her literary passion is bringing little-known historical events to life through the eyes of those who lived it, particularly those set along the Appalachian frontier, where European and Native American cultural and world views collided. Her second published historical novel, The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn, is set against the backdrop of the State of Franklin conflict, in which a young woman and a frontiersman flee across the mountains of North Carolina to keep her free of an unwanted marriage, just as tensions over who is destined to govern the Overmountain settlers erupts into violence.

Lori's book list on the Lost State of Franklin

Lori Benton Why did Lori love this book?

For many years this was the most comprehensive examination of the ill-fated State of Franklin. The author goes into great detail presenting the factors that led to this secession of its western counties from the State of North Carolina, in 1784. Still a must-read for anyone exploring this subject.

By Samuel Cole Williams,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked History of the Lost State of Franklin as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

No other movement for separate statehood reached, even approximately, the stage attained by Franklin, that of a de facto government, waging war, negotiating treaties and functioning for a term of years in the three great departments that mark an American State, the legislative, executive, and judicial. Genealogical and biographical information is included here as well. The author has preserved the names of minor participants in the struggle, for or against separate statehood. Of the leaders, a fuller account is given. For some of these, even, this is a rescue of their names and deeds from near-oblivion.


Book cover of The Essential Book of Presidential Trivia

Rod Martinez Author Of Powerfully Perplexing Presidential Profiles

From my list on American history presidential fun fact trivia.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have been fascinated with American Presidents since I was ten and visited the Hall of Presidents attraction at Disney World years ago. That one visit opened my mind to American History and sealed my fate as a collector of American History facts. Later in life, I turned into an author of middle grade and young adult, but I knew I’d have to write a book on Presidential facts. I am glad to say that it was a well-received book in libraries and schools and I encourage young readers and hopeful writers in schools to consider writing as a passion and to teach others in the written word about that one thing they are into more than anything else. 

Rod's book list on American history presidential fun fact trivia

Rod Martinez Why did Rod love this book?

This book was written by a ten-year-old with a severe fascination with Presidential trivia and history. His author's voice is perfect for kids his age and should inspire any kid to write a book on any subject of their liking. It is a really fun book to read and he did his homework. I highly suggest this one for kids and libraries and schools.

By Noah McCullough,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Essential Book of Presidential Trivia as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

“I want everyone to know about the history of the United States and about important political events and issues and how they work.”
–Noah McCullough, age ten, 2032 presidential hopeful

Noah McCullough may just be this country’s youngest presidential historian ever–and in this delightful volume he gives us hours of entertainment with an illustrated tour of America’s forty-three presidents, from George Washington to George W. Bush. The political whiz kid famed for his appearances on “The Tonight Show” offers up brief bios and fun facts about our nation’s leaders, as well as trivia questions such as

• Which president could…


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Book cover of The Fornax Assassin

The Fornax Assassin By J.C. Gemmell,

In 2038 a devastating pandemic sweeps across the world. Two decades later, Britain remains the epicenter for the Fornax variant, annexed by a terrified global community.

David Malik is as careful as any man to avoid contact with the virus. But when his sister tests positive as an asymptomatic carrier,…

Book cover of Grover Cleveland, Again!: A Treasury of American Presidents

Rod Martinez Author Of Powerfully Perplexing Presidential Profiles

From my list on American history presidential fun fact trivia.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have been fascinated with American Presidents since I was ten and visited the Hall of Presidents attraction at Disney World years ago. That one visit opened my mind to American History and sealed my fate as a collector of American History facts. Later in life, I turned into an author of middle grade and young adult, but I knew I’d have to write a book on Presidential facts. I am glad to say that it was a well-received book in libraries and schools and I encourage young readers and hopeful writers in schools to consider writing as a passion and to teach others in the written word about that one thing they are into more than anything else. 

Rod's book list on American history presidential fun fact trivia

Rod Martinez Why did Rod love this book?

Author Ken Burns is great at non-fiction and this book is full of great art, anecdotes, and fun stories about the men in the oval office. The pace and feel are like that of a graphic novel, which would be great for younger readers – but chock full of great stories and facts for a book report. 

By Ken Burns, Gerald Kelley (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Grover Cleveland, Again! as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 10, 11, 12, and 13.

What is this book about?

The instant New York Times bestseller that's perfect for President's Day!

A gorgeous collection of American presidents filled with fun facts and sparkling with personality, from nonfiction master Ken Burns.
 
This special treasury from America's beloved documentarian Ken Burns brings the presidents to life for our nation's children. Each president is given a lushly illustrated spread with curated stories and information to give readers of all ages a comprehensive view of the varied and fascinating characters who have led our nation (with the exception of Grover Cleveland--the only president to serve two non-consecutive terms--who gets two spreads!). A must-have for…


Book cover of The Great Book of Crazy President Trivia: Interesting Stories of American Presidents

Rod Martinez Author Of Powerfully Perplexing Presidential Profiles

From my list on American history presidential fun fact trivia.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have been fascinated with American Presidents since I was ten and visited the Hall of Presidents attraction at Disney World years ago. That one visit opened my mind to American History and sealed my fate as a collector of American History facts. Later in life, I turned into an author of middle grade and young adult, but I knew I’d have to write a book on Presidential facts. I am glad to say that it was a well-received book in libraries and schools and I encourage young readers and hopeful writers in schools to consider writing as a passion and to teach others in the written word about that one thing they are into more than anything else. 

Rod's book list on American history presidential fun fact trivia

Rod Martinez Why did Rod love this book?

I love trivia and I love American History and foremost, I love Presidential history. Author Bill O’Neill writes in a fun, easy-to-read manner which to me, makes it all the more fun to devour a book like this. Covering rumors and myths, this book is a fun ride through American history and before you know it, you’re at the end.

By Bill O'Neill, Dwayne Walker,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Great Book of Crazy President Trivia as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Do you love American history? Do you enjoy learning about the US Presidents? If so, then this President Trivia book is for you. The Great Book of Crazy President Trivia is filled with many lesser-known facts about the American Presidents. It is filled with great stories of the US Presidents that you will not find in any US history books.

This President Trivia book is going to let you see the Presidents of the past in a whole new light. Learn about their personal lives, the challenges they faced, and their great accomplishments. When you read this trivia book, you…


Book cover of The Smithsonian Book of Presidential Trivia

Rod Martinez Author Of Powerfully Perplexing Presidential Profiles

From my list on American history presidential fun fact trivia.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have been fascinated with American Presidents since I was ten and visited the Hall of Presidents attraction at Disney World years ago. That one visit opened my mind to American History and sealed my fate as a collector of American History facts. Later in life, I turned into an author of middle grade and young adult, but I knew I’d have to write a book on Presidential facts. I am glad to say that it was a well-received book in libraries and schools and I encourage young readers and hopeful writers in schools to consider writing as a passion and to teach others in the written word about that one thing they are into more than anything else. 

Rod's book list on American history presidential fun fact trivia

Rod Martinez Why did Rod love this book?

If you’re going to get facts on anything American, the Smithsonian should be the 1st place you go. Having visited the museum several times, there’s always a wealth of knowledge there, but also a fun place to be wowed at how much stuff they have pertaining to Americana and what brought us from then to now. 

By Smithsonian Institution,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Smithsonian Book of Presidential Trivia as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Which president holds the record for the most vetoes? Which president had the largest shoe size? Who was the only president to serve in both World War I and World War II? Who was the tallest president? These questions and many, many more are answered in The Smithsonian Book of Presidential Trivia, which has been fully updated to 2021 to include trivia question and answers about every US president to date.

Divided into 11 chapters, The Smithsonian Book of Presidential Trivia looks at every aspect of our heads of state and presidential history: Citizens, Officers, Heroes, and Saviors; Stumping: From…


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Book cover of Lethal Legacy

Lethal Legacy By H.R. Kemp,

Buried Secrets. A web of deceit, betrayal, and danger. Can she survive her fight for justice and truth? Laura thought she knew everything about her late husband before he died. Now, her life and the lives of those she loves are in danger. As Laura delves into his previous role…

Book cover of The Next President: The Unexpected Beginnings and Unwritten Future of America's Presidents

Michelle Markel Author Of Unshakable Eleanor: How Our 32nd First Lady Used Her Voice To Fight For Human Rights

From my list on children’s books about the U.S. presidency.

Why am I passionate about this?

I love kids' books that humanize historical figures, including our former presidents and first ladies. Extra points for texts that have fresh approaches, lots of lesser-known facts, and a few sentences about social context! Children need a realistic, detailed view of our country’s past leaders and the times they lived in. Writing truthful, inspirational stories is my job, as an author of nonfiction for young people. My books have won several state and national awards, including the PEN Steven Kroll Award for Picture Book Writing, the Jane Addams Book Award, and the SCBWI Golden Kite Award for Nonfiction (Younger Readers). 

Michelle's book list on children’s books about the U.S. presidency

Michelle Markel Why did Michelle love this book?

I love the frame of this book: when a president takes office, many future commanders-in-chief are growing up or pursuing other careers (as adventurers, journalists, prospectors, cattle ranchers, lawyers, and more!) I enjoyed the quirky details about the future presidents (during a duel, Andrew Jackson took a bullet that was too close to his heart for doctors to remove, and he carried it to the White House.)

I love the synchronicity of the text and how so many narratives/storylines are taking place at the same time.  In the end, young readers are invited to consider that at the moment, ten future presidents are living- and some may be children like themselves. That is a very cool perspective.

By Kate Messner, Adam Rex (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Next President as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 8, 9, 10, and 11.

What is this book about?

An inspiring and informative book for kids about the past and future of America's presidents.

Who will be the NEXT president? Could it be you? When George Washington became the first president of the United States, there were nine future presidents already alive in America, doing things like practicing law or studying medicine.

When JFK became the thirty-fifth president, there were 10 future presidents already alive in America, doing things like hosting TV shows and learning the saxophone.

And right now-today!-there are at least 10 future presidents alive in America. They could be playing basketball, like Barack Obama, or helping…


Book cover of In Plain Sight
Book cover of The Lemon Man
Book cover of But Not Forgotten

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