Hello friends,
We’re excited to share the lineup of amazing books we’ll be bringing to you in 2025! From captivating stories and powerful biographies to thought-provoking essays and historical discoveries, these titles are sure to inspire, entertain, and spark curiosity. Here’s what’s coming your way:
The Eunuch’s Daughter & Stories by Khanh Ha
Take a journey through Vietnam’s past and present in this stunning collection of short stories. From imperial courts to modern households, Khanh Ha masterfully explores heartbreak, redemption, and the complexity of human connections. Readers are already calling it “extraordinary” and “beautiful.” You won’t want to miss this one!
Crosshatch: Martha Schofield, the Forgotten Feminist (1839–1916) by Christina Larocco
Ever wondered about the lives of the women who shaped history? Meet Martha Schofield, an abolitionist and feminist who fearlessly fought for equality during one of the most turbulent times in American history. Based on her personal letters and diaries, this beautifully written book brings her inspiring story to life while offering a fresh perspective on our own times.
Soul Friend and Other Love Notes to the Natural World by Sheila McEntee
This collection of heartfelt essays is like a love letter to nature. Sheila McEntee reflects on 20 years of exploring forests, rivers, and her own backyard, finding wisdom, comfort, and joy in the natural world. With stunning pen-and-ink illustrations by Sophie Kromholz, this is the perfect read for anyone who finds solace in the outdoors.
Squid Boy Raven Girl by R. R. Davis
Get ready to dive into the mysterious world of a remote Inuit village on Canada’s Labrador coast. Follow Robert, a preteen grappling with his inner and outer worlds, in a story that’s as haunting as it is beautiful. This novel explores growing up, resilience, and the impacts of colonialism, and it’ll stick with you long after you turn the last page.
The Battle of Cowpens, Reexamined by Robert A. Ford
History buffs, this one’s for you! This fascinating book takes a fresh look at one of the American Revolution’s most pivotal battles, challenging old assumptions and uncovering the brilliance of Daniel Morgan’s strategy. Whether you’re a military history enthusiast or just curious about the past, this is a must-read.
An Absent Life: Elizabeth, the “mad” Duchess of Albemarle, 1654–1734 by Paul Boucher
Delve into the hidden life of Elizabeth Cavendish, Duchess of Albemarle, often dismissed as “the mad duchess.” Paul Boucher meticulously reconstructs her story, revealing a woman shaped by her era’s gender and societal constraints, whose life was overshadowed by misdiagnosis and neglect.
With vivid historical detail, the book explores Elizabeth’s journey through the grandeur of 17th-century English aristocracy, her struggles with mental health, and the complex web of familial and societal pressures. Drawing on rare archival evidence, Boucher paints an intimate portrait of a woman largely forgotten by history.
The Maestro and Her Protégé by Kate Whouley
Step into the compelling world of The Maestro and Her Protégé, a richly woven tale of music, mentorship, and personal transformation. This evocative novel follows Hannah Schaeffer, a fictional trailblazing conductor, as she navigates the challenges of breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry. Inspired by her mentor, the iconic Nadia Boulanger (a real-life musical luminary) Hannah’s journey spans decades, intertwining themes of ambition, love, and resilience. Alternating between her formative years as a prodigy in 1960s Paris and her reflective present-day quest for creative renewal, Hannah’s story crescendos with a poignant exploration of identity and legacy. Perfect for lovers of music and literature, Whouley’s narrative resonates like a masterful symphony, capturing the triumphs and tribulations of an extraordinary life dedicated to art.
We can’t wait for you to dive into these incredible books. Keep an eye out for pre-orders and special sneak peeks; there’s so much to look forward to!
Thanks for being part of the Blackwater Press family. Here’s to another year of amazing stories!
Warmly,
Elizabeth, Vivien, and Luca