21 Fiction Reads to Check Out This Fall

Orphans of the Carnival by Carol Birch

Julia Pastrana was branded a freak at birth because of her unusual face, a hindrance that would propel her to international fame in the carnival world. Despite her success and her ability to amuse thousands, she longs for the ultimate human connection: love. When a mysterious man in New Orleans gives her a potion that guarantees her a soul mate, she doesn't hesitate to guzzle it down, but will that love be authentic? A beautifully heartbreaking ode to the human experience, Orphans of the Carnival will leave a mark on your heart.

Release date: Nov. 8