“A Doubter’s Almanac” by Ethan Canin. “A subtle meditation on creativity, happiness, and fate (Library Journal).’   ‘The Prize” by Jill Bialosky.  A ‘luminous behind-the-scenes view of the art world.  “Noonday” by Pat Barker. Three friends who met as students in art school, reunite in London during the 1940 Blitz.  “The Ancient Minstrel” by Jim Harrison. Three novellas by “one of the most companionable voices in American letters.”  “Crazy Blood” by T. Jefferson Parker. An intricate and atmospheric family drama.  “Medici’s Daughter” by Sophie Perinot. A French princess deftly balances secret escapades and public duties in the days leading up to the infamous St. Bartholomew’s Day massacre.