Scaled and Icy

Twenty One Pilots' sixth studio album, Scaled and Icy (2021), was developed during the COVID-19 pandemic and examines the isolation felt during these unprecedented times. Singer Tyler Joseph wanted to create an upbeat and optimistic sound to combat the bleak state of the world. Scaled and Icy definitely has a more playful pop sound while still examining serious themes and issues. It's essentially a snapshot of the emotional highs and lows of life in quarantine. The album has received generally favorable reviews, with critics noting that it feels more in line with one of their earlier albums, Vessel. As a longtime fan of this band, the tracks that stand out most to me are "Shy Away," "Choker," "Mulberry Street," and "No Chances." Overall, this album is full of catchy songs and profound lyrical messages that make the world feel a little less lonely.


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Series Spotlight: The Ice Cream Parlor Mystery Series

Do you love charming cozy mysteries with fun characters? Then you have to check out The Ice Cream Parlor Mystery Series by Abby Collette! The first book, A Deadly Inside Scoop (2020), introduces us to Bronwyn Crewse, a recent graduate who has just taken over her family's ice cream shop in Ohio. Things are off to a rocky start when Bronwyn finds a dead body in the snow on re-opening day. The victim is a man who had a known feud with the Crewse family, and Bronwyn's father is the prime suspect.

The second book in the series, A Game of Cones (2021), features more mishaps; between Bronwyn's best friend being blamed for another killing in town to her stubborn aunt who's determined to take over the ice cream shop, Bronwyn can't seem to catch a break. But she'll stop at nothing to protect the people and parlor she loves.

The third book, A Killer Sundae, will be released in 2022 and continue the adventures of these quirky and loveable characters.

Listen to the audiobooks now on Hoopla.

Looking for more cozy mysteries? Check out the booklist on our website or eMediaLibrary.



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Fear Street Part One: 1994

Celebrate Halloween early with this teen slasher film based on the books by beloved author R.L. Stine. This is the first installment of a trilogy that follows a group of teens who are terrorized by an evil ancient spirit that has plagued their town for centuries. At first, Deena Johnson doesn't believe in the town witch; that is until her ex-girlfriend Sam accidentally disturbs the witch's grave following a car crash. The witch is furious and will stop at nothing until she gets revenge, no matter how brutal. The film does a great job honoring its source material and has an impressive, committed cast. If you're looking for horror/suspense mixed with 90's nostalgia, then this one's for you.

You can watch Fear Street Part 1: 1994 (2021, Rated R) on Netflix with one of our Rokus.



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The Ex Talk

This expertly crafted romantic comedy focuses on Shay, a radio station producer who loves her job yet despises her coworker, Dominic Yun. They constantly clash because Dominic is a know-it-all while Shay has ten years of industry experience on her side. One day, Shay proposes a new concept for their struggling station: The Ex Talk, a show where exes give relationship advice on air. Because Shay and Dominic already hate each other, their boss thinks they would be the perfect co-hosts. They both hate the idea of pretending to have dated, yet they can't afford to be fired. The audience gets hooked on their fake relationship fast, and the lies grow bigger. Can they keep up the ruse, especially when they start falling for each other? Witty, hilarious, and super swoon worthy, The Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon is a must-read novel for any romance fan.

Available as an ebook and eaudiobook on eMediaLibrary.
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Uncut Gems

Known mostly for his comedic roles, Adam Sandler does a terrific job playing Howard Ratner, a gambling addict in New York City's Diamond District. He owns a jewelry store and struggles to pay off his massive gambling debts (well over $100,000). He has a rare and expensive opal smuggled into the U.S, but he lets basketball star Kevin Garrett borrow it for one night after he insists the stone will bring him good luck for his game. Howard has trouble retrieving the opal afterwards, and the people he owes money to are fed up. This anxiety-inducing thriller will you have biting your nails as you follow Howard through nerve-wracking scenes. As the stakes grow impossibly high, so does your anticipation for the final scenes; the end will leave you speechless.


Watch Uncut Gems (2020, Rated R) on DVD or Blu-Ray today.



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Serena Singh Flips the Switch

This sweet story of self-discovery centers on Serena Singh, a woman who wants to live independently despite her family's harsh traditional values. She just landed her dream job working at a top advertising firm, but her parents would much rather see her married with children. Serena believes she is happiest when she's self-reliant; however, she is so career driven that her hobbies and friendships have crumbled. When she sparks a new friendship with a coworker, Serena realizes how much she misses connecting with others. She sets out to mend relationships with her family, friends, and even her ex while staying true to herself.


Serena Singh Flips the Switch by Sonya Lalli is a wonderful novel full of humor, honesty, and hope.



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