PHONE CALLS FROM THE DEAD Wendy Brenner Brenner, the winner of a Flannery O'Connor Award five years ago, serves up offbeat short stories that evoke the flavor of the New South. (Algonquin, $21.95)

OPEN SEASON Linda Howard Meek Daisy Minor gets a makeover and goes on a hunt to find her a fella. But this lighthearted novel takes a dark turn when Daisy herself becomes prey. (Pocket, $24.95)

THE RED ROOM Nicci French This keep-you-up-all-nighter from a husband-and-wife team using a pseudonym delves into forensic psychiatry. (Mysterious Press, $24.95)