Hope Rises by David Baldacci (Grand Central) is the top holds title of the week. LibraryReads and Library Journal offer read-alikes for patrons waiting to read this buzziest book.

In Baldacci’s sequel to Nash Falls, Walter Nash is working with the FBI to dismantle a global crime network. His wife is in witness protection, and he believes his daughter is dead at the hands of a dangerous drug dealer. Nash transforms his look, morphing from successful businessman to tough-guy private security enforcer. His new name (Dillon Hope), his new physique, and his training allow him to infiltrate the drug operations of the beautiful, devious, and enigmatic Victoria Steers, who hires Nash to be her bodyguard. Nash has every reason to hate Steers, but there is something about her that belies her cool, calculating facade. As they spend time together, a bond grows between them, and Nash notes a different reality behind the story Steers wants the world to see. When the opportunity arises to take down the billionaire Steers answers to, Nash and Steers work together, reveal their pasts, and attempt the dangerous task that confronts them. VERDICT Baldacci creates a story that includes misdirection, revenge, double-crossing, and compromise. The surprising plot twists provide interest and drive the story forward. Readers who enjoy thrillers and Baldacci’s many fans will savor this book.—Joanna Burkhardt

King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby (Flatiron; LJ starred review)

Appeared on the June 2025 LibraryReads list

“The Carruthers are a family living with multiple secrets and the trauma of losing their mother while the siblings were still young. When Roman, the oldest brother, returns home after their father is in a terrible accident, he gets drawn into gang warfare trying to protect his family. This page-turner is full of secrets.”—Linda Quinn, Eastham Public Library, MA

False Witness by Karin Slaughter (Morrow; LJ starred review)

Appeared on the July 2021 LibraryReads list

“Leigh is a successful Atlanta attorney while her estranged sister, Callie, is a drug addict. When Leigh defends a serial rapist, she and Callie are forced to confront their traumatic past and complicated future. This is a thrill ride with satisfying depth and two main characters worth rooting for.”—Donna Ballard, East Meadow Public Library, East Meadow, NY

Say Nothing by Brad Parks (Dutton; LJ starred review)

Appeared on the March 2017 LibraryReads list

“Fans of crime fiction and fans of domestic drama will find much to love in Parks’ genre-blending thriller. Judge Scott Sampson is a devoted family man and a respected jurist thrown into every parent’s worst nightmare: his 6-year-old twins are kidnapped, and the kidnappers blackmail Scott into increasingly immoral legal decisions. Cue marital meltdown, ethical dilemmas, paranoia, and a thrill ride that suspense lovers will race through to learn what happens next.”—Donna Matturri, Pickerington Public Library, Pickerington, OH