With spring in bloom and the sun shining once again, the seasonal shift has us clamoring to be outside (hold the allergies!). Whether you want to sit in the park with a new book or pop in your headphones and enjoy an afternoon walk, these Northern Virginians will keep you entertained with their latest releases.
Music
“Feel This One” and more by Nic D
Best known for his viral song “Fine Apple” from 2021, this TikTok star, podcaster, influencer, and musician has been busy creating new content. All year, the Culpeper star has been releasing multiple singles, a mix of pop, hip-hop, and rap that will bring a bright, fun energy to your playlists.
Book
Bitter Roots, by Ellen Crosby
What better setting for a murder mystery than Virginia’s expansive vineyards? This thrilling novel is the most recent addition to the NoVA resident’s Wine Country Mysteries series, set in Atoka in Fauquier County. In the latest title, out April 5, winemaker Lucie Montgomery is tasked with unraveling the story behind a shocking murder on her vineyard just days before her wedding.
Book
The Violin Conspiracy, by Brendan Slocumb
Music and literature meet in this mystery, Good Morning America’s February Book Club pick. The novel follows a talented young Black violinist who discovers that his grandfather’s instrument is a priceless antique—a revelation that could change the trajectory of his career, but also makes him a target for thieves. A violinist himself, Slocumb has performed with orchestras throughout the DMV, including the NOVA-Annandale Symphony Orchestra.
Podcast
Big Book Club, hosted by the Arlington Public Library
This portable book club fits into anyone’s schedule—you can tune into the monthly podcast on your own time and listen to the hosts share their thoughts and insights on the book of the month, whether it’s a hot-off-the-presses best-seller or a centuries-old classic. Just beware: This is not spoiler-free! Want to read along with them this month? The lineup for April includes Shakespeare’s King Lear and Fool by Christopher Moore.
Book
Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves, by L.M. Elliot
Set in 1941, this piece of kids’ historical fiction written by a Northern Virginia resident explores the climate of the American homefront at the beginning of WWII. A young girl’s world is upended by sudden attacks on the waters near her hometown in this touching exploration of love and family in wartime, perfect for young audiences looking for a taste of heartwarming adventure.
Feature image courtesy publishers
This story originally appeared in the April issue of Northern Virginia magazine. Subscribe for more stories like this.
