pickAnother fun entry in the Daisy Dalrymple series!
Daisy is on the case at the Tower of London, when a somewhat closed area Murder means only a select number of people are suspects. I enjoy this series to see the progression of the characters‘ lives…this one is book 16, I believe, so you can imagine all of the backstory of the main characters by this point. Perfect distraction listen!
Thanks for the tag, @jenniferw88 , @fictionaddictbooks , and @kelly_anne !
1. I didn‘t tag a specific book, because I have quite a few going! I‘m so close to finishing my audio, The Bloody Tower by Carola Dunn.
2. In addition to the e-audio, I have print and ebooks I‘m reading.
3. 4 stars so far for The Bloody Tower
4. Nope…if I did, I would sticky note. I never mark my books.
#ThoughtfulThursday
In a couple of weeks I hit a certain birthday milestone, so it almost seems right to do a little “research!” 😂
I noticed mixed reviews on Litsy for this one, but I‘m hoping it‘ll be an entertaining read - I like the writings of a couple of the authors who contribute to this.
Check in time for this month‘s #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead ! I‘ve seen some completed reads already…I do love their books!
Don‘t forget that discussion questions will be posted on May 31st!
Kangaj1, Reynosa8701, BethM, megnews, Kdgordon88, CoverToCoverGirl, coffeewithbooks, Sargar114, CarolineLovesToRead, KristiAhlers, julieclair
pickDid I stay up way late to finish this one? Yes, yes I did. I‘ll pay for it tomorrow, but I had to find out what happens! Without giving away any spoilers, this #SupernaturalThriller is probably my second favorite by St James…she has this incredible way of building suspense with a multitude of clues and a creep factor that makes me keep all of the lights on as I read. Cannot wait to discuss this next Sunday! #SundayBuddyRead #BBRC #YeahBaby
pickIt was wonderful to visit the Scottish Highlands and the quirky village of Lochdubh. I swear I could tell that this was written by someone else, as especially the last few in the series were entertaining but not quite as polished. Beaton leaves behind a colorful series with Hamish, and Green does well bringing the village to life once again. Hamish is up to his eyeballs in murder again, and of course his love life comes to play yet again.
It‘s time for #MarvellousMay and the mid-month #readathon ! I‘m aiming once again for 20 hours read over the course of the readathon. Starting with my daily read of Wildfell Hall for #PemberLittens and catching up on the weekly reading for #SundayBuddyRead .
so-soThis cozy mystery was so crazy - eccentric characters, bizarre situations, and some pretty unbelievable moments. Yet, a good way to suspend belief and escape reality for awhile. Lots of characters in this one, and I think some of the situations in this novel definitely fall into the #BumblingDetective category. Fast read, and I may try the next in the series at some point. #BBRC #Adult
pickA sheer delight! It‘s like watching a soap opera or am awful reality TV show - you cannot turn away! Lady Susan and her hurricane-like personality bursts onto the scene and leaves so much destruction in its path. This has the Austen wit we know so well with characters that will be hard to forget. #PemberLittens
pickThanks to #NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
The latest in a series of books featuring liquors and their origins, Kahan explored tequila, from its history to its popular brands to recipes and more. This addition does not disappoint with the many facts about tequila and the tasting notes to consider when tasting the liquor. As with others in the series, a collection of tasting notes appears at the back of the book. Informative, fun read!
pickA soft pick for me. Told in a dual timeline, this novel follows a potential scandal over the original author to Pride and Prejudice.
There are moments of suspense in the novel, and some parts of the story just seem a little too hard to believe. But, I had to keep reading, and even though I pretty much figured out how the story would go, I enjoyed the ride.
so-soSet in 1918 during the influenza outbreak, this novel follows Lutie and her sister Helen as they navigate a changing world, filled with war, murder, heartbreak, and child trauma. There are so many dark layers to this novel, so definitely not a light read. Lutie‘s naivety was at times very distracting to me, and as I listened (the narration is great!), I would roll my eyes.
Thanks to #NetGalley and the publisher for this ALC!
Thanks for the tag, @Eggs and @TheRiehlDeal !
1. Quite often! It‘s like the story continues even in my sleep…
2. Pride and Prejudice…”It‘s a truth universally acknowledged…”
3. Take one day at a time. Things are super crazy at work, and will only get crazier as summer and summer reading kicks in…
#WondrousWednesday
so-soI went into this book knowing this is not my typical read, so I already kind of had low expectations.
There is so much violence and evil in this book, that it almost felt like it had to be an allegory of something, or a cautionary tale, or it could just be a very violent world depicted. The darkness of tone didn‘t bother me. I persevered to check this off #BBRC for the #AnthropomorphicCharactersPublishedBefore2010 prompt.
Today starts this month‘s #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead - this compilation from the amazing trio of Williams, Willig, and White!
I‘m really looking forward to this one! Tagging those who have expressed interest in being tagged this month. If you would like me to also tag you in posts this month, comment below!
Kangaj1, Reynosa8701, BethM, megnews, Kdgordon88, CoverToCoverGirl, coffeewithbooks, Sargar114, CarolineLovesToRead, KristiAhlers, julieclair
I started this years ago but set it to the side, because life interrupted. However, I am so excited to start this again (and finish!). From what I remember, I was transfixed by the story, and Anne Brontë‘s writing was amazing.
I picked up this particular edition through BookOutlet some time ago. It‘s a rainy afternoon at my house, so a perfect time to start this. #PemberLittens
For #BookSpinBingo in May, I hope to focus on some books waiting for reviews, mostly from #NetGalley . And yes, some of these have been published for years…
Time for this month‘s #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead discussion! There are so many points worth discussing in this novel, but I didn‘t want to flood everyone‘s feed with questions! You‘ll find 8 questions related to Salt to the Sea on the title‘s feed, my feed, and by searching the #LiteraryCrew hashtag.
Anything else you wish to discuss, comment below! Remember to use the spoiler tag if needed. Thanks for joining this month!
Kangaj1, Jerdencon, PurpleyPumpkin, megnews, CoverToCoverGirl, coffeewithbooks, Sargar114, jimfields3, CarolineLovesToRead, julieclair8. The Amber Room is also mentioned in this novel. Have you heard of it prior to reading this? #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead
Older Smithsonian Magazine article about the Amber Room: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/a-brief-history-of-the-amber-room-1609401...
7. Describe Florian, Emilia, Joana, and Alfred. What makes them dynamic characters? What are their greatest strengths as people? What are their weaknesses? - from the Reading Discussion guide on the author‘s website #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead
6. Explain the significance of the title, Salt to the Sea. Given the magnitude of the tragedy of the Wilhelm Gustloff, does it accurately describe the events and relationships portrayed in the novel? - from the Reading Discussion guide on the author‘s website #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead
Article from The Smithsonian Magazine about the disaster found in the comments⬇️⬇️⬇️
5. Considering each of the main characters‘ perspectives, in what ways is this novel a story about things that have been lost? What does each character find along the way? - adapted from the Reading Discussion guide on the author‘s website #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead
4. World War II was the first war in which civilians were as affected as soldiers. Considering what you learned from the novel, what were some of the ways in which civilians were most greatly affected? - adapted from the Reading Discussion guide on the author‘s website #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead
3. Throughout the novel, many characters exhibit acts of bravery. Consider the individual actions of these characters. Who do you believe to be the most courageous, and why? - adapted from the Reading Discussion guide on the author‘s website #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead
2. Salt to the Sea is told in multiple first-person narratives; how woks the story be different if only a single character were telling it? - from Reading Discussion Guide on the author‘s website #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead
1. Ruta Sepetys has gained critical and reader acclaim for her YA historical fiction that highlights a dark aspect of history rarely discussed or even known to most readers. Have you read any of her books prior to this? If so, how does this month‘s book compare? #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead
pickTold from the perspective of four young adults, this #historicalfiction novel chronicles the final days of WWII and the refugees fleeing the Russian advance. It‘s spellbinding, horrific, and deeply emotional. Sepetys has a way with words and the hook that keeps you reading. I loved this one. #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead
#TeenAngst #BBRC
#19822022 #2016
so-soSet in #Madagascar , this book of chronologically interconnected stories follows Shay, the mistress of the Red House. I loved the descriptive aspects of the novel, detailing a country I know so little about and learning the customs of those who live on the island. The first story had a somewhat Gothic overtone, which I wished carried on throughout the book. At times, I felt the stories became a bit tedious, as Shay grapples ⬇️⬇️⬇️
Littens truly know when you need a box of joy!
Thank you so much @kspenmoll for the amazing box! I am so touched that you sent these to me. I‘ve not been in the best mindset of late, and these put such a smile on my face. I am so glad we got to know each other through Litsy! ❤️❤️❤️
The May selection for #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead is this collaborative work by the amazing trio of Williams, Willig, and White!
This is a low key buddy read - read at your own pace during the month, and I will post periodic check ins throughout the month. Group discussion at the end of May!
Tagging those who have expressed interest in joining the May buddy read. If you would like me to tag you as well, please comment below! All are welcome!
Kangaj1, megnews, Kdgordon88, CoverToCoverGirl, coffeewithbooks, Sargar114, CarolineLovesToRead, julieclair
How is it the end of April already?!?!?!
Reminder that the #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead discussion for this title will be on April 30th! Judging from posts, it looks like most of us have completed the book (I‘m hoping to by the 30th!), so I‘m anticipating a great discussion!
Kangaj1, Jerdencon, PurpleyPumpkin, megnews, CoverToCoverGirl, coffeewithbooks, Sargar114, jimfields3, CarolineLovesToRead, julieclair
pickA fascinating look at twelfth century politics in England, culminating in the White Ship disaster that completely changed the trajectory of the Royal dynasty at the time. Fair warning, though: there are so many Henry‘s and William‘s and Matilda‘s that, unless you‘re well-versed in this history, it could get a tad confusing. But, this is also a time of upheaval, and Spencer lays it out well. Great history! #Booked2022 #AboutARealOrFictionalRoyal
Thanks for the tag, @Eggs !
1. I do both!
2. Reading challenges help me think creatively to fond books to fit the prompts. Sometimes, they even push me out of my usual type of read, which is perfect!
3. Trying to finish up The White Ship (it‘s way overdue at the library) and over halfway through Red Island House on audio.
#WondrousWednesday
so-soCharlotte is stuck in NYC on Christmas Eve. As she waits for a flight home to England, she decides she wants to live a “Story.” Enter Anthony. Both have been unceremoniously dumped and decide to spend a crazy Christmas Eve having adventures in the city. For a short book, this took me forever to read. I probably would have appreciated it more if I were the age of the target audience. I did lots of eye rolling. 😂
#HolidayRomance #TeenAngst #BBRC
pickIt took all I had not to stay up and finish this one last night. So, I had to finish it this morning!
Without going into too much detail, as this builds on so much that has happened in the Gamache series, this has to be one of my favorites thus far in the series. So much emotion is conveyed in Penny‘s writing, and so many built up layers fall into place. She really could have ended the series with this one, but we all know it continues!
pickA reread for me & finished just in time for my library‘s discussion of it!
A bit different for a cozy mystery, as the amateur sleuth is male. I love Diesel the cat, who has an uncanny way of knowing who needs comfort. This is a fast read featuring librarians & books. Some of the comments characters make about other characters‘ appearance & behavior are not exactly polite, which is a tad bothersome, but I did like this one overall. #19822022 #2010
pickI absolutely loved this witty and sometimes slightly snarky (but in a good way) look at the Jane Austen fandom. Yaffe, who is a Janeite, writes about her experiences interviewing fellow Jane Austen enthusiasts and attending a JASNA Annual General Meeting. If you‘ve seen her give a presentation on the fandom (I have twice) her writing style is much like her presentations. As I told one of my IRL friends ⬇️⬇️⬇️
panOh dear. This is the first book by Krentz that I didn‘t really like. Granted, it is book 3 in a series, and I have not read the first two, but it‘s way more sci-fi than her other reads, including her Arcane series. The arrogance of the male main character bordered on domineering and controlling, and I really did not Bond well with the female lead. It did serve as a good distraction while doing house chores, though! #19822022 #1989
Life has been incredibly busy, especially thanks to work and navigating some personal things. Not much down time, but I‘m aiming to read 20 hours for #AwesomeApril . I haven‘t made it in the last few months, but it‘s been fun to see what I can do!
The cats also miss my down time. Here is #Xander and #Zeke flanking me as I prepare to begin the #readathon with the tagged book, which I‘ll be discussing on Monday night for my library. #catsoflitsy
pickThis fascinating book explores forms of art and the secrets that the medium hides and/or reveals - from coverups to unfinished works to even censorship, art has a lot of stories to tell. I loved the brief background of each art piece discussed, as well as the pages of closer detail of each art piece. I think this is a must for any art enthusiast. #ArtPhotography for #YeahBaby #BBRC
Thanks for the tag, @Eggs !
1. Daffodils
2. Cozy mysteries - my perfect way to escape from reality
3. …a tight bond
#WondrousWednesday
First Quarter wrap up for the #19822022 #Challenge .
I‘ve read 10 so far - mostly 4 star reads with one 2 star read.
Looking forward to where the next quarter will take me with reading!
I submitted my three reads to the Google form for #Booked2022 Quarter 1.
I had hoped to cover more prompts in the first quarter but there‘s definitely time to cover more in the future quarters!
Each of these were satisfying reads:
Non-patriarchal society - The Mercies by Kiran Millwood Hargrave
A Murder Mystery - A Mourning Wedding by Carola Dunn
Includes a Recipe - Body and Soul Food by Abby Collette
so-soMacy Stoddard takes a position as a nurse for a patient in the Thousand Islands of New York. Little does she know the multitude of secrets and dangers that await her. While parts of this kept my interest and made me want to read more to see what happens next, other parts seemed to drag for me. For a short book, it took me awhile to finish!
Macy visits some castles that I would love to see…loved those descriptions!
My April #BookSpinBingo selections look pretty much like the March selections…it at least makes getting the list together easy!
I highlighted this one a few years ago on Litsy, and it works perfectly for the final #200PnPCovers prompt #walks . Take the paths of Austen on these self guided tours of Austen‘s stomping grounds. Along the way, Edwards highlights Austen history and the area‘s history.
Thanks to @CrowCAH and @mabell for hosting a fun Austen challenge!!
Time for this month‘s #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead discussion!
I have 8 questions under the spoiler…thanks to the reading guide from Ballantine/Penguin Random House. Comment general thoughts below!
You can find these either by searching the hashtags, under my feed or the book‘s feed. Thanks to those participating this month. If I did not tag you in the post for next month‘s discussion, and you wish to be tagged, let me know!
8. “China doll” or “China dolls” are phrases used often in the novel. What are the most important meanings behind this phrase? Which are positive? Which are negative? #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead
Adapted from Reader‘s Guide
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