The Liar Society

Lisa and Laura Roecker

(Sourcebooks Fire, $9.99)

Cleveland sisters Lisa and Laura Roecker's debut novel is surprisingly fun given its grim subject matter. Magenta-tressed heroine Kate Lowry investigates the shady world of her private school after her best friend dies in a freak accident. Kate is Nancy Drew minus the preppy perfection, and her endearing quirks draw the reader into the story. Though written for the teen crowd, many moms will probably devour it in secret.   // Shannon Bowens

Weather

Dave Lucas

(The University of Georgia Press, $16.95)

There is an eerie quality to Dave Lucas' collection of poems based on memories and landmarks from his Cleveland upbringing. From "Lake Erie Monster" and "River on Fire" to "After Love" and "You Asked What the Heart Can Carry," Lucas' eloquent metaphors and strong imagery create a sense of romanticism, passion and mystery about the place we call home and show how deeply it has rooted itself in him.    // Lauren Cohen