Looking for a new read? Check out these 5 local authors + their latest books

Reading time: 3 minutes

Gary Burley
Gary Burley at his book signing. (Photo provided by Runby Photography)

I don’t know about you, but I love snuggling up with a good book.

What better way to dive into a good story than by reading a book by some of our local authors? 

Check out five Birmingham-area authors, their latest books and where you can buy them.

1. Pete Candler – A Deeper South

Local author Pete Candler spent 25 years road-tripping in the South, exploring different cultures, capturing breath-taking photos and confronting his ancestors’ roles in the legacy of the South. Follow along in his recently published novel, A Deeper South.  

“The book narrates my journey through the American South from ignorance to something approaching self-knowledge and I earnestly hope that the experience of reading it will take you on a journey as well.”

Pete Candler, author, A Deeper South

2. Gary Burley – Glory, The Struggle For Yards: Inspiration from Turn of the Century African-American Unsung Heroes

Former NFL Player Gary Burley highlights the real-life stories of five athletes of color who struggled in professional sports. He gathers his thoughts and experiences—along with Ralph V. Brooks and Donna T. Francavilla, both highly-respected authors.

He offers a glimpse into the fame and failures of some of the most successful athletes in the country.

3. VE Duncan – Immortal Book 1

VE Duncan with her novel, Immortal Book 1.
Author VE Duncan with her newest novel, Immortal Book 1. (Photo provided by VE Duncan)

Who doesn’t love a good sci-fi romance mystery novel?

VE Duncan brings us Immortal Book 1, a story about a girl who must fight to protect those she cares about, even facing deadly immortal beings.

“The series explores what happens when Immortal and Mortal worlds collide. At its core, the story is about the triumph of human connection over the forces pulling us apart.”

Ginger Duncan, author, Immortal Book 1

4. LaDarrion Williams – Blood at the Root

LaDarrion Williams
(Photo provided by LaDarrion Williams)

This is a novel you don’t want to miss—especially if you’re a fan of immortal characters. Immerse yourself in the world of Malik Baron, a conflicted character struggling to face his true identity. This novel tells the story of a young man facing everyday challenges, including some unknown to the mortal world.

“Malik Baron, our main character, definitely resembles me in a lot of ways. We don’t get to see young Black boys in literature having the space to be angry, be vulnerable and also to be the custodians of their own images.”

LaDarrion Williams, author, Blood at the Root

5. Ashley Wurzbacher – How to Care for a Human Girl

How To Care for a Human Girl cover
You can find Ashley Wurzbacher’s new novel at Thank You Books. (Jordyn Davis / Bham Now)

Ashley Wurzbacher brings a new perspective on pregnancy and the bond between two sisters. This novel displays the family connection between blood sisters and delves into the difficulties of love and marriage.

Want to learn more about local authors? Click here for more information.

Who is your favorite Birmingham author? Let us know by tagging us @bhamnow.

Jordyn Davis
Jordyn Davis
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