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Queenie
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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review
CaliforniaCay
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

I loved Queenie way more than I was expecting to. It had been on my radar for years mostly because the cover 🤩 but also because people seem to love or hate it. It was more sad than funny, but humourous at times. Queenie makes some bad decisions that put her in some bad circumstances, but ultimately I felt for her. I could relate to some of the trauma she experienced and some of the ways she acted out in response. I was hooked start to finish 🎧🧩

Leftcoastzen Lovely puzzle! 4w
Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks I loved this one ❤️ 4w
Gissy I loved that book❤️That puzzle😍👌 4w
46 likes1 stack add3 comments
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keepingupwiththepenguins
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

Queenie is, I think, emblematic of an interesting direction in the New Adult and Romantic Comedy categories – books that look like the light-hearted reads we remember, but actually have hidden depths. It‘s difficult to “enjoy” a book like this, but it‘s still highly readable and surprisingly insightful. Full review: https://keepingupwiththepenguins.com/queenie-candice-carty-williams/

The_Book_Ninja This book is one of my wife‘s top 5. 6mo
47 likes1 comment
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Beachbum
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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I finished this book “Queenie”, and I really enjoyed it. I had to put it down several times because it depressed me and I didn‘t want to be put in that state of mind. Queenie is a 20ish black woman who was mentally abused as a child. Now as an adult, she appears to not have self worth. There is a bigger picture and a great story line. It is a must read! #mentalabuse #queenie #endofsummer

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twinkletoes74
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

Three words to describe this book would be heartbreaking, topical and funny.

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KT1432
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

Finally got around to reading this one! This is what I‘d hoped Luster would be. Yes, Queenie is a black millennial whose life is a train wreck, but shining light on her mental health struggles made it more relatable. A mental breakdown, family views on therapy, career woes, lack of motivation, racism, unhealthy relationships with sex, mother-daughter relationship dysfunction and more are all explored in this ultimately touching novel. #BOTM #pop22

AmyG Hi! USPS tracking said they left the package on your porch. Just want to confirm you got it. Thanks!!! 2y
KT1432 @AmyG yayyy I see it!! I‘ll go get it now, thanks so much! (edited) 2y
AmyG Thanks for letting me know! 2y
34 likes1 stack add3 comments
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ElleMNOpe
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Mehso-so

A lot of cringe with nearly every character a train wreck. Solid writing & dynamic characters, but ultimately didn't feel balanced. Some good cultural relevance that was overwhelmed by an unsympathetic protagonist. For me, Queenie didn't garner much sympathy because a lot of the damaging situations were ones she placed herself in by making incredibly poor choices. I did appreciate the discussions on mental health, therapy & self esteem.

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AnneCecilie
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks Excellent choice 🖤🧡 2y
41 likes1 comment
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Victoriahoperose
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

I liked the story for the most part in this. It was pretty relatable in a lot of ways when thinking about being a woman and going through a break up and how severely that can effect your mental health along with other factors. There was a lot going on though in this book, mental health, relationship and sex issues, racial issues, etc. I felt like it was a little too much at some points, but I did like it and how it came together.

Alfoster Me too!❤️👏 2y
mcctrish It‘s been a while since I read this, and I did like it, but I seem to remember thinking it wasn‘t really marketed truly to match its full story. And the story was almost too big for itself-ish but now that I‘m thinking about it it fits with a millennial book list I read recently. That‘s a seriously intense sub genre (edited) 2y
Victoriahoperose @mcctrish I agree. That‘s a really good way of describing this book. 2y
47 likes3 comments
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AllDebooks
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
Pickpick

I cannot enthuse about this book enough. It left me speechless and reeling. I loved Queenie so much, I so wanted her to find herself and self-belief. I haven't felt this immersed in a novel for a long, long time. It certainly makes you think on how we talk and treat each other, particularly POC. 10/10

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kera_11
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Queenie is so frustratingly human. while it‘s easy to say from the outside that you‘d never make these decisions while you‘re seemingly spiraling after being dumped and kicked out of your apartment and misunderstood by your boss and your family, you never know. this book is character driven so it can be a bit slow but Queenie‘s growth was commendable, standing up for herself and admitting she needed help to a family that didn‘t get it. well done.

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Professional_Book_Dragon
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Thank you so much @Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks !! I‘m super excited to read these! The other gifts were so thoughtful! I can‘t wait to fill it with all my pens and crafting stuff for #LitsyLove! 🥰

Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks You‘re very welcome!! I‘m so sorry it was late 🤦🏻‍♀️ these books are really good 🧡 2y
40 likes1 comment
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unreal
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

I loved this, it's very character driven so if you like a strong plot this is not for you but it was definitely for me. Queenie was frustratingly human, I wanted to shake her and tell her to stop but her self-destructive nature was precisely what made her so real. She makes a lot of bad decisions but she learns and grows and although it has some real low points I have found the book really hopeful. I just loved it.

30 likes1 stack add
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abookishbutterfly
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Library haul 🙂

Alfoster Loved Queenie! 2y
abookishbutterfly @Alfoster I‘ve been wanting to read it for a while! 2y
62 likes1 stack add2 comments
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Soubhiville
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Bailedbailed

I‘m sorry Queenie, I‘m not into all your bad decisions right now. Am I too old to relate to this anymore? I certainly made my share of stupid decisions in my early 20‘s. I dunno, but I see from reviews that it‘s not just me. Bailed at about 25%.

Look at this ridiculous weather in TX! The whole Austin area is closed, which is fine by me. Yuck.

BiblioLitten I was quite annoyed by her in the beginning (questioning why I didn‘t like her), almost bailed but by the end I was rooting for her. This character picks herself up much later (which can test one‘s patience). 2y
AmyG And I am older than you and had trouble with her poor decisions. 2y
ChaoticMissAdventures I didn't get far in this, I much preferred this one about a woman making terrible decisions (which I do think is an interesting concept that more people should explore) 2y
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Jas16 I didn‘t like this one either. 2y
Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks I bailed before I finished it! 2y
vlwelser I wasn't a fan. Only kept going because it was a Sunday buddy read book last year. 2y
samantharoberts I bailed on this one too! 2y
63 likes7 comments
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Night_Reader
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

3.5/5 🌟

Not perfect but it was entertaining and made me laugh. The brief and casual mention of BLM seemed frivolous.

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Cupcake12
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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#12booksof21
My February pick

Andrew65 A good choice. 2y
30 likes1 comment
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perfectsinner
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Mehso-so

I mean, so-so. A woman goes through a breakup, has a breakdown and starts sleeping around, including an incident with a colleague that comes to bite her in the ass with getting fired. Her besties are there for her thru it all as she picks the pieces of her life and attempts to put them back together. Not an earth shattering book, but it was ok.

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PuddleJumper
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Mehso-so

I really struggled with this book. I've been reading it on and off for about a year and finally just powered through it. It just wasn't for me but I got it off my #shelfofshame 🤣

@Clwojick

Ruthiella Well done! So satisfying to cross it off the list. (edited) 2y
26 likes1 comment
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Michellesibs
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

Queenie is annoying and imperfect, troubled, a closed book but within a few chapters I could feel her vulnerability and my heart hurt. The scene at the bus stop with Tom put a lump in my throat, I felt that rejection and from then onwards she was under my skin.
This is more than words on a page, this felt real, raw and we need more of it.
A fantastic slice of life that left tears in my eyes but a heart full of friendship and families.

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fredthemoose
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Thanks for the tag, @DarkMina ! I think this is my first theme day Q&A. ☺️. 1) A title might catch my eye on its own, but then I‘ll read a book‘s description (and probably look up reviews) before actually buying or reading it.

2) I enjoyed Queenie. Also Pachinko, and The Guncle (if we‘re not being super strict on the one word title). I don‘t know who to tag, but if you‘re reading this, please feel free to play along!

DarkMina You‘re welcome! 3y
TheSpineView Thanks for playing! 3y
15 likes2 comments
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Chars
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Mehso-so

Past neglect can hang like fog for years or generations. Current put-downs, rude remarks, and cruel patterns make self destructive behaviour the path needed to feel ok. Such weight rests on Queenie‘s shoulders. She sinks into it, yes, but there is no free-falling as friends, extended family, and counsellors - along with her own sense of self and spirit - create a floor to the downward spiral, a solid foundation to stand on.

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OriginalCyn620
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

Glad I finally read this one! Very good, though Queenie kept making one bad decision after another, and I just wanted to shake her! But, I was rooting for her throughout the whole book. And I have to disagree with the comparison to Bridget Jones…this dealt with some serious issues and was much heavier.

#bookspinbingo

#pop21 - title starts with Q, X, or Z

TheAromaofBooks Great progress!! 3y
48 likes1 stack add1 comment
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Booksandtea23
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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A re read ❤️. I really loved this book the first time I read it two years ago so now I‘m listening to the audio book.

SW-T A belated welcome to Litsy! Happy reading. 😁 3y
13 likes1 comment
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MallenNC
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

I really enjoyed this book and finished it in two days after waiting a year to read it. The blurb comparing this to Bridget Jones does it a disservice though. It is a lot more serious than that. It reminded me more of Eleanor Oliphant. I liked that she faces real challenges on her own. I also loved her friends. (I would read a book about Kyazike for sure!) This was my June #BookSpin and is the fastest I‘ve ever finished a BookSpin pick!

OriginalCyn620 Awesome! This is on my list too! 3y
TheAromaofBooks Woohoo!! 3y
38 likes1 stack add2 comments
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ahomelibrary
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

I enjoyed the setting and realistic characterization of a young woman grappling with self-destructive behaviors and unresolved trauma. For me, MC is not likeable but uncomfortably relatable. The raw nature of Queenie‘s decisions and circumstances are realistic and resonate with me and I imagine many readers of similar age of MC or older. A good read that‘s quick but packs a punch. #DiverseReads #ContemporaryFiction

kspenmoll Great review ! I found the book to be raw & unsettling but beauty in there as well. 3y
sharread Welcome to Litsy. ❤ 3y
See All 7 Comments
Tattooedteacher Welcome to Litsy 3y
Tattooedteacher Welcome 3y
Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks Welcome to Litsy 📚📚 3y
28 likes1 stack add7 comments
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ATB
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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My “stack” for #24in4.

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Kalalalatja
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

A small pick from me, because I think it is a case of #ItsMeNotYou between me and Queenie. I was underwhelmed by this book, mostly because it took me quite awhile (for me) to finish it. This made it harder for me to be emotionally invested in Queenie and her experience. I did enjoy the humor of the book, but I felt like it only touched the surface on some of the heavier topics.

#Pop21 - A book whose title starts with Q

Cinfhen It was meh for me too!! Queenie was tough to “embrace” at times but great choice for #pop21 3y
BiblioLitten Queenie grew on me. I almost gave it up but by the end I was rooting for her. But I haven‘t recommended it to anyone. 3y
Kalalalatja @Cinfhen @BiblioLitten I couldn‘t even really root for her, but I rooted for her therapist! 😅 the ending and felt too rushed 3y
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vivastory
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

While reading Queenie I had the fleeting thought that the discussions that Queenie has with her friends, most notably in her Corgis text thread, about her love life at times made the book feel like an episode of Sex & the City. So, I wasn't terribly surprised that my copy was blurbed by Candace Bushnell. Except for the fact that Carrie Bradshaw et al are white & race, specifically Black Lives Matter, plays an important role in Queenie.👇

vivastory Although the focus on this story is on her breakup with Tom & subsequent love life, the interweaving of personal matters (family dynamics, friendships etc) & broader social concerns (BLM, economic issues) is impressive in this debut novel. The final chapter is a bit uneven, but is easily forgiven in a book with many high points. And yes, Queenie makes several terrible choices in the book, as several reviewers have noted. (edited) 3y
vivastory But 1) show me someone in their 20s who didn't act foolish 2) there is real character development & growth in the book,
3y
Kalalalatja Great review! I‘m reading it at the moment, but it is slow going. Hope to finish it this weekend 🤞 3y
84 likes3 stack adds3 comments
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sb3626
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

I have had a busy day driving but we were able to look at the Wedding Venue that we loved and are almost set on a date. 😅😅😅 Got to end my night at home with my pup and finish Queenie. While this isn‘t really a book I can fully rate I find it truly amazing how much Queenie grew throughout this book.

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NeedsMoreBooks
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

Thank you @Laughterhp for this book. Queenie is a new adult novel about the 25-year-old Jamaican-American Queenie Jenkins. This was an interesting book in terms of adding in text messages in the narrative. Queenie is having ahead time: breakup with her white boyfriend, consequent one-night stands, sexual and mental health, and her family. I enjoyed her friendships and her growth as a character but some parts seemed repetitive. Still a pick.

Laughterhp I‘m glad you liked it! 3y
45 likes1 comment
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Sargar114
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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In case anyone is interested, Candice Carty-Williams added some thoughts about her writing Queenie over on Goodreads #sundaybuddyread

TheBookHippie People are fun. She isn‘t Queenie. Goodness. 3y
15 likes1 comment
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Cazxxx
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. It was funny, thought provoking and relevant. It drew me Into her story and had me rooting for her the whole way through. Although I did think it was aimed at younger people than me it was an enjoyable short read
⭐️⭐️⭐️

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maich
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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#LitsySpringBreak #London
#WindsofMarch #FebruaryStats
@alwaysbeenaloverofbooks @thekidsupstair
@Eggs

I already shared February stats. And only Queenie was set in London. Important book for #BlackLivesMatter movement.
This London bus was a gift from a friend who moved to London.

#litsyfun

TheKidUpstairs I really liked Queenie! 3y
maich @TheKidUpstairs I'm glad that you like it. For me was so-so. 3y
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Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Mehso-so

I picked this one up for the February #sundaybuddyread and I only had a vague idea of what was to come. This is about 25 year old Queenie Jenkins living in modern day London. The writing was good but the MC's life choices (and some rationale) were far from being healthy decisions, and that's frustrating as hell. This book did shed some light on beliefs one might experience in Jamaican families and had some strong characters & friendships. ⬇️

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick There were also a fair amount of douchebags along for the ride. Ultimately, Queenie's mindset from the start is what gives me reservations on making this a pick, but that's possibly more my own thoughts. I'll toss a minor spoiler below to clarify. 3y
Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I mentioned this in our discussions, but one thing that I've seen in other books that turns me off happened here: Queenie was using sex as power with multiple men, but didn't enjoy it. Why do you continue to do things you're not enjoying?! If you're going to have a female character having lots of sex, I want them to enjoy it, dammit! It's a part of someone's character I just don't understand. 3y
See All 7 Comments
TheBookHippie @Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I see girls do this over and over in my past 30 years of mentoring. It is a classic behavior of neglected and abused girls, it is one of the most heartbreaking things I see. Queenie portrayed it so real I was up at night trying to make my mind find an easier way to teach girls worth and value and control. Thanks for sticking with us. 🤍 3y
Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick @TheBookHippie It's heartbreaking that so many young ladies go through all that. 💔 3y
Cinfhen Lots of challenge prompts 🙌🏻💕I liked this one but agree, I wanted to both shake & hug Queenie 3y
TheAromaofBooks Great progress!!! 3y
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Helen19
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

I didn‘t know much about this before going in. Everything I‘d heard made me expect a light hearted, unlucky in love type romance. Nope! So much more than that, so much deeper and more important. And all the better for it. Great pick #sundaybuddyread

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DebinHawaii
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

At times this book & Queenie frustrated me & I felt too old to relate but I found myself caught up in Queenie‘s story & rooted for her to make better/healthier life choices. The completely different set of life experiences than my own make it a book I‘d recommend to anyone trying to understand the life of a young woman of color. Discussions with the #sundaybuddyread group were illuminating. I‘ll be thinking of Queenie long past the final pages.

rjsthumbelina Definitely a book I will continue to think about, too! 3y
Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks Great review 🧡 3y
62 likes2 comments
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cwarnier
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Mehso-so

#bookspinbingo @thearomaofbooks
I will end the month so close to a bingo, but with 6 books read! I will take that.
Overall I enjoyed reading Queenie, and participating in #Sundaybuddyread discussions each week. (Possible unpopular opinion coming)I know that I have a lot to learn about how people of color live and exist, but I also fee like the media gives such a negative connotation their lives. It makes it hard for people like me to be able⬇

cwarnier to distinguish fact from fiction and not judge them. I know that as a white person, I can be thought of as a person of “class“ and privileged when that is not the case.
I am overall glad that I read this book, and feel like I have learned a lot about how some people of color live, or are forced to live.
3y
TheAromaofBooks Great progress!!! 3y
TheBookHippie The media feeds off what people want to hear and if they don‘t get push back they will continue. The fact that that‘s the narrative people want to hear and take comfort in so that their privilege can continue and they don‘t have to face their part of racism is a really massive issue. It‘s why I always tell people do not listen to sound bites, how have you been taught to think. Search and change the narrative in your head. Thanks for reading along. 3y
19 likes3 comments
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DanaManiac
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Mehso-so

2.5 ⭐️
I just don't know about this one. Queenie had no respect or regard for herself or her body, which was painful to witness. She is from a Jamaican family and there is a tremendous amount of pressure in our culture regarding your behavior and how it reflects back on your family. She‘s afraid to go to therapy for this reason, but it doesn‘t stop her recklessness. I felt relief when it ended. I don't see how she is compared to Bridget Jones...

TheBookHippie I don‘t either see the correlation at all. I thank you so much for reading with us. It was a rough one. My massive hope is it‘s made some readers think and changes some long held narratives of racism in their lives that they may not have realized. 3y
kspenmoll Good review- this was a tough one. 3y
17 likes2 comments
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Nicki_K
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐I loved this book- I had read reviews comparing it to Bridget Jones and whilst Queenie does have some struggles with her relationships and finding love-this book delves so much deeper than Bridget Jones ever did imo. It deals with racism, bigotry and Queenie's search to find how to love and accept herself and how she can complete herself instead of looking for love in all the wrong people. A great read with funny and thought provoking parts.

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TheBookHippie
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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Pickpick

#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD

I thank you for joining me in this read and sticking with it!!! So many issues. Hopefully I‘ve done them justice.

On to March!!!

GingerAntics I love this image, too!!! 💙💙💙 3y
Karisa Thank you, @TheBookHippie! You hace done a fantastic and thoughtful job provoking our conversations once again. 💗💗💗 3y
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TheBookHippie @Karisa 🤍🤞🏻 thank you. This one kept me up at night. 3y
vlwelser Thank you! 😘 Also, I am super excited about the next book. 3y
mollyrotondo Thank you for really great questions this month!!! 3y
DebinHawaii Thank you for picking it & for the great discussion questions & your impeccable image pucks to accompany them. 🤗 3y
JaclynW Thank you!! 3y
62 likes8 comments
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TheBookHippie
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
This post contains spoilers
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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD FINAL THOUGHTS

This book was hard to read at times for me, but I‘m glad I read it. I do think it classifies as a necessary read. Your thoughts?

Also no way I‘d let Cassandra back in my circle ! Would you?

Overall I don‘t think this was ever the Bridget Jones it said it was, you?

Did you learn anything ? Or gain new perspective ?

Her mom... I have mixed feelings about...

Anything else ??

Karisa Difficult read but also satisfying ending. It feels like Queenie and her mom still have more to finish together. Her mom is both likeable and detached as character. I kept wanting more from her mom for Queenie. 3y
DanaManiac Very difficult. I almost didn‘t finish it because of the amount of secondhand embarrassment and anxiety I felt reading it. I am still wondering how this was like Bridget Jones... 3y
Karisa @DanaManiac British accents? Awkward moments?? An office job? But mostly British accents... I think that's about as far as Bridget Jones comparisons. 3y
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Sargar114 I agree @TheBookHippie. Tough read but an important one. I‘m glad we got to see a big part of the cycle (the downfall and the recovery), I think if it was just one or the other then it would be a much more problematic book. Cassandra is terrible and I hope she pays her back and never sees her again. As for her mom, it seems like they‘re on a path to rebuild their relationship. 3y
AmyG Not a book for me. I am happy it‘s over. 3y
TheBookHippie @DanaManiac I have to be honest it kept me up at night. 3y
vlwelser I think it's an important read. But I think it's for a younger audience. If I had read this in my 20s i'd have a totally different take on this. 3y
mollyrotondo I struggled at the beginning because of the dating stuff. But once the book started to reveal deeper personal and social issues it became an extremely important read to me. I did not understand why it was compared to Bridget Jones. It was really much more serious than Bridget Jones. 3y
DebinHawaii I am glad I read it & think it was well done—especially for a debut novel. Definitely one that will resonate differently for a younger age group but I think a necessary read. Yes on the BOO! to Cassandra! 🤬 And for Bridget Jones part -set in UK & when Queenie journals her improvement ideas were the only things that I thought related & I definitely would not liken it to BJD based on those things. 3y
JaclynW I don't think I get the Bridget Jones comparison... Maybe that person didn't actually read the book?? I'm glad I read this one. Although difficult at times, it was an important read and brought awareness to issues that we all should be thinking more about. I loved the new perspectives I gained. This is a great one for a book club because the discussion could be endless. 3y
11 likes1 stack add10 comments
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TheBookHippie
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
This post contains spoilers
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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD FOURTEEN

Queenie moves out. At her dinner she sees people who love her, You think she‘s going to be okay ?

Karisa The party at the end with all of Queenie's biggest supports (and Cassandra, meh) was great. Down to earth and warm. Her grandparents and their interactions always crack me up. Reminds me of my own. Bubbly soft drink--we would've never told my grandpa if he'd been drinking accidentally 🤣 3y
Karisa I think Queenie will be more than okay (not to say it'll be easy), but she's much stronger now. Also, having the secret struggles out gives those around her more ways to help. 3y
DanaManiac I think Queenie will live up to the story behind name. 3y
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Sargar114 I liked this scene (except for the Carissa stuff) because it showed the support system she has and why she‘ll be okay. 3y
AmyG I think she will be fine. Remember, healig is not linear. She will have setbacks, but that‘s life. But sheis on a good path. 3y
TheBookHippie @DanaManiac Me too I think she will thrive. 3y
vlwelser Definitely. She will be just fine. I also like that she got her act together at work. 3y
mollyrotondo She is on such a better path. She is going to be okay 👌 3y
JaclynW I hope so! 3y
DebinHawaii I think she will progress on the road to a better, healthier live although for sure she‘ll have set backs along the way. She has the tools & support she lacked before & she‘ll ultimately be okay. 💜 3y
8 likes10 comments
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TheBookHippie
Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
This post contains spoilers
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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD THIRTEEN

Cassandra really? Is she a friend ?

There is NO WAY I‘d let her back in my life, you?

Tattooedteacher When I saw her name again, I re-read it again and again hoping my reading comprehension was faltering. Nope. And no I wouldn‘t be able to let her into my circle again. But then again I‘m told I can be hard on friends. 3y
Karisa Yeah, I could've done without that character at Queenie's last dinner. It made the scene more true to life though and gave Queenie a chance to flex her new growing self. 3y
DanaManiac Cassandra comes back and she hasn‘t grown- surprise, surprise! I would let her stay at the dinner, but we‘d never be friends again. 3y
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Sargar114 This was the part of the last scene I didn‘t love. But I enjoyed the “I‘ve come too far to be petty” part of it. I think you‘re right @DanaManiac she can stay at the dinner but will probably be kept at arms length. I couldn‘t believe the gall in Carissa to come back after the things she said 3y
AmyG Ugh, Cassandra. A friend is a friend unless they screw you over. Enter Cassandra. 3y
TheBookHippie @DanaManiac Exactly my thoughts. 3y
TheBookHippie @Sargar114 She made me throw the book... what a ________!!! Just no. Go now with your judge-mental righteousness pious self. Jeepers 🤯 3y
vlwelser I would not let someone like that back into my life. 3y
mollyrotondo Yeah I hold grudges like nobody‘s business. So Cassandra would be our! I don‘t think she deserved to be brought back into the group 3y
JaclynW I was shocked at the return. I'm sometimes (maybe naively so) overly optimistic and hopeful. I love a good lesson learned and comeback. All that said... I'd be super cautious and totally make her prove herself before I opened my arms wide to my inner circle. Maybe that would never happen...? @mollyrotondo @Sargar114 @TheBookHippie @vlwelser @amyg @DanaManiac @Karisa @Tattooedteacher 3y
DebinHawaii Yeah, I was mad she showed back up & with nary a crumb of humble pie & a worthy apology. She learned nothing & I hope Queenie does not let her back into the Corgis & her inner circle. 3y
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Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD TWELVE

Ted. Good. Thoughts ?????
Why does no one EVER believe women ?!

Tattooedteacher Unfortunately we aren‘t allowed enough characters for me to accurately express how I feel about that man. Maybe his sorry ass made an idiotic mistake, but he needed to step off a long time ago. I was so proud of Queenie for what she said to him in response to his kill-myself spiel. But then the email. Ugh! 3y
Karisa Ted is exasperating. The gall of that guy. Yuck! Found myself cheering for Kyazike to hit him for Queenie 🤣 3y
DanaManiac He is insufferable. The fact that he filed a harassment claim against Queenie when he was the one pursuing her... then had the NERVE to say he hopes for a second chance if things don‘t work out with his wife. In this fictional world, I think violence is the answer when it comes to Ted. 3y
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Sargar114 Ted = 🤮 3y
AmyG Ted‘s a douche. 3y
vlwelser I didn't get why he couldn't leave her alone. He's so stupid. Putting stuff in writing. Making the initial accusation. He deserved to get fired. 3y
mollyrotondo Ted is so gross and awful and is a typical privileged man who learns nothing from his disgusting actions. 3y
JaclynW I second @Sargar114 🤮!!! 3y
DebinHawaii I was rooting for Kyazike to hit him much harder. Such douchery & such a major arsehat. 🍑🎩 And, truly, truly stupid. If he hadn‘t have written the letter, he would probably still have his job. I was impressed with Queenie giving it to Gina. 3y
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Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD ELEVEN

Kyazike
“You can be any type of Black girl you want to be.”
How do you like Kyazike?

Karisa What a great line from a great friend! The Corgis are amazing! Queenie is so lucky to have those two. I love how Kyazike (and Darcy) had her own identity but still supported Queenie without trying to turn Queenie into her. She lets Queenie be herself 💗 3y
DanaManiac It‘s a great line and it‘s something people need to hear more often. No people group is a monolith. It‘s great to have a friend who lets you be yourself. 3y
Sargar114 This was my favorite line of the book. Kyazike and Darcy are such wonderful friends and a big reason why I think Queenie will be okay in the long run. 3y
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AmyG Kyazike was a favorite. Very confident and honest. A good friend. 3y
vlwelser Kyazike is a great character. She definitely has great insight into herself and Queenie. I thought this statement from her sort of summed her up pretty well. 3y
mollyrotondo Kyazike was my favorite friend! 3y
JaclynW Kyazike was awesome. A great character /friend. I loved the differences in the friends. Very complementary and well-rounded group. This was a great line, such wisdom in it. 3y
DebinHawaii I think it was so important to hear that message from Kyazike, she needed the validation & support. I think Kyazike & Darcy are a good yin & yang of friendship & support for Queenie. 3y
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Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD TEN

Queenie: Back to dating why? Could you believe it?

DanaManiac Ugh. This ticked me off. It‘s like Queenie still doesn‘t understand that she has extremely poor judgment. The fact that she even ended up back at that guy‘s place tells me she is NOT ready to start dating again. 3y
Sargar114 This annoyed me so much!!! Like, I get being lonely...but this is also how we got to this point in the first place!!! This was a book throwing moment for me. @TheBookHippie 3y
Karisa Queenie tried to find someone better on the apps, but it felt like she was just settling. Then he ended up being just as bad as the rest. When she went to his place, I was yelling noooo! I feel like we need a sequel in which Queenie finally gets the guy she deserves and wants in her life. Yeah, I still want a little cheesy romance for her even though this book became more without it 🤣 3y
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AmyG I‘m not surprised. She thought she was “better” or in a good place....backto her “go to” behavior. I‘ve seen this many times. She needs to be alone for a BIT...she needs to see that. Hopefully she will. 3y
vlwelser I think this proved that she may still not be ready. 3y
mollyrotondo You don‘t NEED a guy Queenie! 3y
JaclynW I cringed. A lot. This isn't what I had hoped for her. Get in a healthy place first yourself! 😬😳 3y
Sargar114 As bad as it was though, it may be one of those things that she had to experience herself (with her newfound mental health survival tools) to recognize she wasn‘t ready. 3y
ElizaMarie I love this picture :) 3y
DebinHawaii I was yelling at her but while I think she needs to stay away from the apps for a while & maybe forever, I was happy to see her stop things before she had sex with him—the “old” Queenie would not have done that. Proof of her growth, even amid the setback. 3y
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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD NINE

Queenie boss. Thoughts ?
Back to work -what did you think ?

DanaManiac I‘m glad she‘s back to work and that Gina acknowledged that Ted was in the wrong. I get how Queenie‘s bad behavior could give her a negative reputation, but slacking off at work and sexual harassment are two very different things, so I‘m still disturbed by Gina dismissing her when Ted filed a complaint. I am happy that they got rid of him though. 3y
Tattooedteacher @DanaManiac Dana, I agree with her going back to work. I was glad that Gina dismissed Ted but I do so wish she would have listened to both sides professionally. She “picked” a side and shouldn‘t have regardless of Queenie‘s work behavior. 3y
Sargar114 I‘m also glad she went back to work. Like Janet said, at least it was a place she knew and Darcy was there. I‘m glad Gina admitted she was wrong. I was cheering when Queenie gave her the letter. Perfect move, cause it definitely showed Queenie wasn‘t the pursuer. 3y
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Karisa It's fantastic that Queenie has a new writing assignment that she enjoys but Gina's dismissiveness (of Ted situ and Queenie's more substantive article pitches) makes me wish Queenie had a new job altogether. Still it's progress 3y
AmyG It was not hard for ehr to go back to work, to life. But she had to face things and use what she was taught to get through life...and do it well. I think she will thrive. 3y
vlwelser I thought Gina was better in the second round. 3y
mollyrotondo I really disliked Gina and also thought Queenie would be better off working somewhere else. But maybe she can get some really good important articles under her belt and then find a new job with a powerful magazine. 3y
JaclynW I liked that Queenie went back to work. I think it's good for her to practice her newly acquired coping skills and to have something productive to do outside of personal life. Her boss is learning.... I'm going to be patient with her. I do think Queenie may need to move on if this job isn't a good fit for her. I hope Queenie keeps speaking out and creating the opportunities that she needs and desires. 3y
Sargar114 @JaclynW I‘m cutting her boss a break too. I think after the complaint, you have to investigate which it seems like they did which is why she was allowed back. Now I think Ted should have been on leave as well but there seems to be some weird office dynamics here too 3y
DebinHawaii I think that Gina & the company could have handled it better & should have investigated fairly more quickly than they did & also addressed Ted‘s behavior with more consequences BEFORE the letter was received. But the end of the day, Gina & they did the right thing to bring her back. I think going back ultimately helped her with her healing but I would like her to find a different & better position once she gets her confidence & performance back. 3y
Helen19 I thought Gina‘s phone calls were rubbish! No real apology anywhere. 3y
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Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD EIGHT

Queenie‘s childhood ..did it shock you?
How is it playing out now do you think?
Can she overcome do you think ?
Can anyone ?

Sargar114 It was heartbreaking to read that. I think it explained a lot but also seeing her ability to be resilient makes me think she‘ll overcome. With the breakup with Tom and everything in her life coming to a head, it makes sense that eventually she‘d break down giving everything she‘s been through her entire life. But still, I think she‘ll get through this. 3y
AmyG Queenie, sadly, had a difficult childhood. So many people do. And...this is the effect it had on Queenie. Work through your issues and you can, hopefully , change who you grow to be. Knowledge is power and the past doesn‘t have to write the future. It takes work and resources. Queenie was lucky to have found Janet and was willing to work with her. 3y
vlwelser I felt bad for the mom in a sense. But I think that Queenie can continue to prove how strong she is. 3y
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mollyrotondo Uhh this backstory was extremely heartbreaking. It definitely explains why Queenie wants love from a man (Tom) but would also seek attention from any man even men who are abusive. It also explains why she wouldn‘t want to talk about her issues. She was left alone as a growing girl so how would she ever learn it is okay to talk and it‘s okay to seek help. 3y
JaclynW Oh man! The trauma this girl suffered was heartbreaking. It's one of the reasons why this book was hard to read. I do believe that humans are miraculous in their ability to recover from the harshest of circumstances. It will obviously shape her and be with her forever but I believe she can move forward and do well. @Sargar114 @AmyG @vlwelser @mollyrotondo 3y
DebinHawaii Yes, such a sad story & it explains so much about Queenie & her actions & reactions. It‘s a lot of baggage & trauma to work through but it is good to see her making the steps to reclaim her life & move toward her future. 3y
Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick Such a sad upbringing. Sad that her grandparents or aunt weren't able to help Queenie during that period of her life. It won't be easy, but I hope she continues to grow so those demons don't settle in. 3y
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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD SEVEN

Queenie getting money from her mom from the court case.
Enough ? Should she say/do more?

DanaManiac I think it‘s a good start. They are both just starting to deal with the past, so I‘m thinking this is just a first step. 3y
Sargar114 Agreed @DanaManiac. It seemed like a starting out point to rebuild their relationship 3y
Karisa It was a nice gesture and Queenie was right to accept it. I want more emotionally from her mom for Queenie, but it seems like it is asking too much of Slyvie at this point. 3y
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AmyG Sylvie recognized that this would be a huge help to Queeni....and that Queenie deserved this as much as she did. What happenned had a huge effect on them both. 3y
vlwelser I think this was good. It was meant to stick her back on her feet. 3y
Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I hope it's a start and not the only apology she makes to Queenie. Perhaps get mother will assess her own past and actions now that she sees her daughter doing it, and hopefully they can come together. 3y
mollyrotondo I thought this was a good step for both mother and daughter and I hope they can start to heal together 3y
DebinHawaii I think it was needed and a good thing for her mom to do. I felt like the book was heading toward them forging a positive relationship. I was happy to see Queenie want to have it & happy to see her mom starting to eat & laugh at the party for Queenie. I think if they both continue to work towards it, they can have a good relationship in the future. 3y
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Queenie | Candice Carty-Williams
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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD SIX

What did you think of Queenie explaining being a Black woman to her therapist ?

DanaManiac She‘s right. I‘m very careful about the friends I keep because I have to have a space where I can just be angry or vulnerable without it being “a thing”. I don‘t have the luxury of crying at work about my cat or not seeing my boyfriend during lockdowns. I‘ve been at my job for almost 5 years and I don‘t share anything personal so there‘s no opportunity for anyone to think I want their opinion on my life. 3y
Karisa I highlighted that part of the book because it felt so honest. It is a reminder to be quiet, listen, put ourselves in other people's shoes, and realize our daily realities as women are not all the same. I loved the part too where Queenie opened up to Diana about her life as a Black woman and Diana responds: “I know, cuz.” Diana smiled. “I hope I can grow up to be as strong as you are.” 3y
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Sargar114 It was good for Queenie to be able to have the safe space to say those things but also good for Janet (and really me) to hear/read them. Janet can give her the tools to cope with most situations, but it will always be limited based on the experiences that Queenie has to go through that Janet never will. It seemed almost like a breakthrough moment for Queenie though. @DanaManiac 💕 3y
AmyG Yes.. @Sargar114 agree. Janet needs to know how Queenie feels and part of what she goes through is as a black woman, not just a woman. 3y
cwarnier I am glad she had a safe space to be able to express herself about all of this and how she felt. Too often we hold it in and that is not good for anyone. 3y
Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I'm glad that Queenie shared those very real suspects of her life with Janet, and that Janet listened. @DanaManiac I wish you didn't have to distance yourself from colleagues for those reasons. Some people suck and I'm sorry. 💛 3y
mollyrotondo I‘m sorry your workplace is like that @DanaManiac but it‘s good that you do have a space that you can express your true emotions. I also agree with @Sargar114 about it being a breakthrough moment for Queenie 3y
JaclynW @cwarnier @mollyrotondo @Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick @TheBookHippie @Sargar114 @DanaManiac @Karisa @amyg I think it's so important that we all create a support system that helps us in the right ways to learn and grow. It definitely isn't good to bottle it up. It's not always easy to find that support system. I was glad to see that Queenie was beginning to find and realize her group. 3y
DebinHawaii I am glad Queenie expressed herself & her experience with Janet, it shows the trust needed for them to work together. Hopefully Janet can really hear her & learn from Queenie too. 3y
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