My Dark Vanessa meets The Queen's Gambit in this new novel of suspense about the bonds of family, the limits of talent, the risks of ambition, and the rewards of revenge. When former piano prodigy Saskia Kreis returns home to Milwaukee after her mother's unexpected death, she expects to inherit the family estate, the Elf House. But with the discovery that her mother's will bequeathed the Elf House to a man that Saskia shares a complicated history with, she is forced to reexamine her own past––and the romantic relationship that changed the course of her life––for answers. Can she find a way to claim her heritage while keeping her secrets buried, or will the fallout from digging too deep destroy her? Set against a post #MeToo landscape, Rachel Kapelke-Dale's The Ingenue delves into mother-daughter relationships, the expectations of talent, the stories we tell ourselves, and what happens when the things that once made you special are taken from you. Moving between Saskia's childhood and the present day, this dark, contemporary fairy tale pulses with desire, longing, and uncertainty, as it builds to its spectacular, shocking climax.
Rachel Kapelke-Dale Books
An American author residing in Paris, this writer finds inspiration in the worlds of ballet, literature, coffee, animals, and the subtle allure of scented candles. Her narratives often weave together themes of aspiration and self-discovery, exploring the experiences of young women navigating their post-academic lives. With a distinctive voice, she invites readers into stories that are both intimate and expansive. Her work is characterized by a keen observational style and a deep appreciation for the sensory details of everyday life.




Dare Me meets Black Swan and Luckiest Girl Alive in a captivating, voice- driven debut novel about a trio of ballerinas who meet as students at the Paris Opera Ballet School.
Graduates in Wonderland
The International Misadventures of Two (Almost) Adults
- 304 pages
- 11 hours of reading
The narrative follows two best friends as they navigate the challenges of post-college life, sharing their experiences through a series of letters. Their correspondence is filled with humor and relatable moments, offering an honest look at the struggles and triumphs of young adulthood. This epistolary memoir captures the essence of friendship and the complexities of transitioning into the real world.
Yellowjackets meets The Cloisters in this beguiling coming-of-age story about class, reinvention, and destiny, set against the backdrop of two mysterious deaths.