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BarbaraTheBibliophage

BarbaraTheBibliophage

Joined May 2016

Blog: https://linktr.ee/barbara_searles | Co-Host for #Booked2023 Reading Challenge | proud liberal | eclectic reader | she/her pronouns
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Fully Booked | Emma Strandberg
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Thanks to all who participated in #Booked2023 and the other years. It‘s been a wonderful ride!

We planned to retire the challenge at year‘s end, but with the state of the world and our personal challenges, we must step away sooner.

There will be no final drawing. Feel free to continue the challenge in your personal reading choices for the rest of the year.

Bookwormjillk Thanks for hosting. Hugs to you all. 14mo
Librarybelle Thank you for hosting this, along with @Cinfhen and @alisiakae ! I‘ve not actively submitted for the drawings - it‘s been more fun to go through this on my own. Thanks for coming up with prompts that have stretched my reading. And thank you for all of the hard work that went into this challenge. 14mo
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BookwormAHN Thank you and @Cinfhen and @alisiakae for hosting. It's been fun 💜 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Bookwormjillk Thank YOU! And 🤗 back to you! 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Librarybelle We have really had a great time hosting, overall. And I‘m glad to hear you‘ll continue with 2023 prompts—if you didn‘t already finish! 🤗 TY! (edited) 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @BookwormAHN We have had a great time overall. It‘s just not going to be sustainable with the state of our lives, especially Cindy‘s. Thanks for being a part of it! 14mo
Ruthiella Understandable. ❤️ Thanks for all the hard work and dedication you all have put in to it. @BarbaraTheBibliophage @Cinfhen @alisiakae 14mo
Singout Many thanks from me too: I‘ve been enjoying this since I joined Litsy in 2020! It‘s pushed me to read a few new things, and given me some structure in my somewhat isolated life. Sending empathy for those of you who are particularly struggling with the crises in the world right now. 14mo
Deblovestoread Thank you all for hosting! It has introduced me to books outside my normal reading lanes, always a good thing. Praying for relief from the current crises. @Cinfhen @alisiakae 14mo
tdrosebud While saddened, I understand. Health, be it physical or mental, is always more important. Thank you for all the hard work you all put into this challenge. 14mo
julieclair Thank you, and @Cinfhen and @alisiakae , for all your work and dedication in hosting this wonderful challenge. It has been a joy to participate, and as @Librarybelle said , it has stretched my reading. Hugs and prayers to each of you for the challenges you are facing. Hoping that life calms down for all of you, and for our world, soon. 🙏 14mo
MallenNC This is totally understandable! I have enjoyed reading for the prompts, and plan to finish the last couple that I have left. 14mo
Julsmarshall Sending love your way. Take care of yourselves! 14mo
LeeRHarry Thankyou all for taking the time to organise this challenge. Here‘s hoping for brighter days ahead. 🤗 14mo
SamAnne ❤️❤️❤️ 14mo
Megabooks I appreciate all the years you ran this! Thank you Barbara and @Cinfhen 💙💙💙💙💙 and @alisiakae too!! (edited) 14mo
julesG Thank you for hosting this challenge, Barbara, @alisiakae, @Cinfhen 😘😘😘 14mo
Cinfhen It is really with a HEAVY heart that I felt the need to step away - hosting this challenge with my wonderful friends and co-hosts has been such an amazing experience and discussing & sharing books with ALL of you has elevated my life in so many ways. I‘m literally heartsick, friends I‘m broken. The world I thought I knew doesn‘t exist. Just know the power of words can do both good & evil. Keep spreading light & truth & love - with all my love 14mo
squirrelbrain Completely understandable and thank you for hosting this wonderful challenge over the years Barbara, @Cinfhen @alisiakae - sending love to all of you. 14mo
TrishB Thank you for a fun challenge. Hope that life soon starts to improve. Love to all 😘 we appreciate what you‘ve done for the community. 14mo
Itchyfeetreader Totally understand and thank you for all you have done. Hoping you are doing okay 14mo
Jas16 Thank you for all the work you put into to proving a really great challenge every year. 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Ruthiella Thanks to you for participating! 💙 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Singout It‘s lovely to hear that we‘ve stretched your reading life in positive ways. We are grateful for every participant! ❤️ 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Deblovestoread So glad to hear we‘ve stretched those reading lanes. Thanks for your continued thoughts of comfort and peace! 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @tdrosebud You‘re so very welcome. And thank you for playing along with our prompts! 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @julieclair Thank you! Hope we can all gather back here on “the other side,” whatever and whenever that may be. 💙 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @MallenNC So glad to hear you‘ll keep on with the challenge. I have one book to go and do plan to finish also. 💙 14mo
TheAromaofBooks Thank you so much for making this challenge so engaging and fun @BarbaraTheBibliophage @Cinfhen @alisiakae - I genuinely appreciate all that you've done!!! Totally understand your decision. ❤ ❤ ❤ 14mo
Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick Barbara @cinfhen @alisiakae Thank you all for the work you've put into this challenge the last few years. I'll continue to work toward finishing because it encourages me to read widely. Wishing you love and peace. 💛🕊 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Julsmarshall Thank you!☺️ 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @LeeRHarry It has been a pleasure, and we join you in hope for brighter days. 😥 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @SamAnne Thank you! 💞 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Megabooks We appreciate all your support and participation all these years also! 🤗💞 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @julesG Thanks for joining us! 💞 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @squirrelbrain @TrishB @Itchyfeetreader @Jas16 @TheAromaofBooks Thank you ALL for being there and making the #Booked challenge years so lovely! 💞🤗 14mo
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick Happy to hear you‘ll keep at this year‘s prompts. Enjoy! And many thanks for playing along! 😘🤗 14mo
kspenmoll I never finished a challenge completely, but enjoyed the prompts & your blog- both encouraged me to widen my reading & look for more variety of reading. Barbara, I still have the bookmark you sent to me initially when I joined Litsy I think close to the time that you did. I hope you & your loved ones are ok-sending you love and hope for you and your family. (edited) 13mo
Magpiegem Thank you to all three of you for organising this challenge every year. I am of course so sad that it will not continue, it‘s become such a big part of my reading year, but completely understand the reasons. Thank you for bringing me so much joy and helping me to build my Litsy community. Sending you love and strength. 13mo
LibrarianRyan I am sorry I missed this announcement. I sorry it is ending but it was fun. I never submitted for prizes but I always participated. I hope all is well, or getting better. 11mo
50 likes42 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Geek Love | Katherine Dunn
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Going to listen to this *very old* audiobook from my library. Every time I look at it, I think it‘s the wrong time. Now I need a #weird book for #booked2023 and this one has a lot of Litsy review about how odd it is. Perfect! 🤞🏻🤞🏻

Plus I‘m really trying to read stuff that I‘ve owned for a LONG time, instead of just getting distracted by the new and shiny things!

Cinfhen Ive heard this book is legit 🍌👖!!!!!! Can‘t wait to hear your thoughts 😁 1y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Cinfhen Same! I had a different book picked for this prompt, but it‘s print and I just won‘t read it soon enough. 1y
AmyG Oh, it‘s weird all right. 1y
Cinfhen That‘s another one that‘s meant to be super challenging !! Good luck 🍀 1y
62 likes4 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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Pickpick

Can‘t say enough good about this series. It‘s complex, emotional, full of #afrofuturism, and includes a diverse cast of characters, including #nonbinaryortrans . I inhaled all three books in a row. Checks off a lot of boxes for my reading preferences. And, of course, #Booked2023 prompts.

Cinfhen That‘s the one prompt Im still working on 😅I couldn‘t get into the first book - maybe I‘ll try again…. 1y
BarbaraBB Like @Cinfhen I can‘t seem to find a book for that prompt! 1y
Cinfhen Im thinking of this one @BarbaraBB 1y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage @Cinfhen @BarbaraBB I hear ya. I‘m an SFF reader, so it‘s comfortable space for me, even as it it‘s often dark. If Goliath doesn‘t work, look at some of Amazon‘s Original Stories collections. There are some short reads by afrofuturist writers. https://www.amazon.com/b/ref=nodl_?ie=UTF8&node=17506527011&dplnkId=e22a0265-30d... 1y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Cinfhen @BarbaraBB Specifically the Black Stars collection. And Jemisin has one in Forward. 1y
BarbaraBB Thank you so much Barbara, this is so helpful! 1y
Zoes_Human Love this series. Especially on audio because Robin Miles is one of the two the greatest narrators I know of. I would listen to her read a pack of matches. 1y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Zoes_Human LOL. Agreed on all those points! 1y
Cinfhen Thanks B!!! That‘s super helpful 😄 1y
Kitta I still need to read the third one! 1y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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🎉🎉😁😁📚📚
Aaand…we have a winner for our #Booked2023 #SecondQuarterDrawing ! Congratulations goes out to @Bookzombie for playing along this year!

Thanks to everyone contributing posts and drawing entries to our #readingchallenge this year. We 🩵 reading with you!

BarbaraTheBibliophage @Bookzombie Please email me at barbarathebibliophage AT gmail DOT com to discuss your prize! 🥳🥳 1y
TrishB Congrats 🎉🎉 1y
Ruthiella Congratulations @Bookzombie ! 👏👏👏🥳 1y
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Cinfhen Yay @Bookzombie CONGRATS 🍾🎉 and thanks to all who have joined us this year!!! 1y
squirrelbrain Congratulations @Bookzombie ! 🎉🎉🎉 1y
Bookzombie OMG! Exciting! Thank you! @Cinfhen @BarbaraTheBibliophage @alisiakae I will email you in just a bit. 💗 1y
55 likes7 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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⏰ Friendly reminder‼️ Our #Booked2023 second quarter form is ready! Please submit all books read between April 1 through June 30, 2023 to be entered in the #SecondQuarterDrawing🤓 Submission deadline July 3- We will announce the winner by July 5,2023 📚link:

https://forms.gle/7dYTPYviPnhPc6QR9

Love, Barbara and @Cinfhen

Cinfhen 😊🥳 1y
39 likes1 comment
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Pantone: Colors | Pantone
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Finished my board for the #Pantone2023 challenge recently. It‘s my first completed challenge of the year!

Bookzombie Congratulations!! 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Bookzombie Aww, thanks. I‘ve been out of the review cycles, but there are so many good books on this list! 2y
Deblovestoread Well done! 2y
Cinfhen AMAZING 🤩 2y
61 likes4 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
The Ferryman: A Novel | Justin Cronin
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Pickpick

I couldn‘t put The Ferryman down. I spent every spare moment for a week reading it and loving every moment.

Cronin is a storytelling master. He built characters I cared about, even if I didn‘t always like them. And while the plot draws from other futuristic stories, Cronin offers an original approach to post-apocalyptic events and decisions.

Full review: https://www.TheBibliophage.com

Booksblanketsandahotbeverage Yay! I‘m first on hold for this at the library 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @BookHoarder32 Lucky you! Hope you enjoy it as much as I did! 2y
BarbaraBB I am very intrigued by this one. Great review 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @BarbaraBB Thanks! Hope you enjoy—when you get to it! 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
The Dance Tree | Kiran Millwood Hargrave
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Pickpick

I really liked this book, but it‘s heavy and dark. So choose accordingly when you read it. It‘s about a dancing plague in the 16th century. But the characters and themes are wholly resonant for today‘s world. Hargrove examines religion, patriarchy, and who we love. And the women in the story bear the brunt of men‘s need for power. See why it‘s so heavy?

Full review https://www.TheBibliophage.com
#aboutneighbors #booked2023

Reggie After The Mercies, I will read anything of hers. 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Reggie That‘s how I felt also. This didn‘t disappoint! But it‘s a slow burn. Very intense but more because of the characters and situations than a lot of action. 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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Pickpick

Two bird-related books checked off prompts. And they‘re both chock-full of great factoids and info on all things birdish. The pandemic connected me to my backyard in new ways. I‘ve always gardened but now I‘m feeding copious numbers of birdies. And taking their pictures. So much fun!

#booked2023 #titlebeginswithw #bookyouddescribeasbalance
#pantone2023 #titanite #grayedjade
#nonfiction2023 #truecolors

64 likes2 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
River Marked | Patricia Briggs
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Pickpick

Mercy and her crew struggle to control the uncontrollable—a river monster! I‘m #latetotheparty with this series. Plus, I constantly put it down for extended periods. But that‘s only because I‘d like to stretch out my enjoyment.

My only concern is whether the author has a personal connection to the indigenous peoples and mythologies in her books. Or does she practice cultural appropriation?

#booked2023 #aboutamonster #pantone2023 #mochamousse

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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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Pickpick

An excellent reflection of life with an eating disorder. But it‘s also much more. For example, Kazdin investigates aspects of the weight loss industry. She also dives into common emotions most women feel about their bodies. It‘s a multi-faceted and thought-provoking book.

Full review https://TheBibliophage.com
#booked2023 #newin2023
#pantone2023 #electricbluelemonade
#nonfiction2023 #justagirl

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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Demon Copperhead: A Novel | Barbara Kingsolver
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Pickpick

#booked2023 #setinamountainregion also would work for #moderntakeonaclassic
#pantone2023 #blueperennial

Excellent but bleak. This reimagining of David Copperfield as an Appalachian bildungsroman is Kingsolver in wonderful form. Naturally, the writing (from our hero‘s perspective) is fantastic. But the story‘s deeply depressing, with poverty and the opioid crisis as its main themes. Can‘t wait to discuss with my IRL book group.

Lcsmcat My book club has this on our list for later this year. I might try to reread the Dickens ahead of that. 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Lcsmcat Makes sense. I just used the Wikipedia entry! 🤣 2y
Lcsmcat @BarbaraTheBibliophage 😂😂 When (years ago) I read Poisonwood Bible I found rereading Heart of Darkness really added to my enjoyment of it. So 🤷🏻‍♀️ if I have time. 😀 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Puddin' | Julie Murphy
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Panpan

Ugh, I really hated this one. I‘m not a YA reader for a reason. But the #Booked2023 #quietya made me try this second in the Dumplin‘ trilogy. I loved Dumplin‘, so though mayyyyybe. But, nope. I found the main characters grating and one lacks in all self-awareness. Spent most of the book wanting to bang my head on the steering wheel at the behavior of these teens and their parents.

#pantone2023 #persimmon

KathyWheeler I wasn‘t in love with this one either. I‘d really loved Dumplin‘ but this one just didn‘t interest me as much. 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @KathyWheeler And some parts of it were actually upsetting. Dumpling‘ was pretty much all positive. But the white girl entitlement in Puddin‘ was not easy to deal with. 2y
KathyWheeler @BarbaraTheBibliophage No, it want easy to deal with at all. 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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Pickpick

#Booked2023 #aboutreproductiverights
#Pantone2023 #cherrytomato
#nonfiction2023 #harpervalleypta

This book takes the conversation about repro rights and turns it on its head. That‘s a telling pun. Every abortion can be prevented by one thing—men acting responsibly. The author makes a book-length listicle (list+article). I enjoyed her audiobook narration and book content so much that I grabbed the ebook right after finishing a library audiobook.

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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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🔔Friendly Reminder from your hosts😊 It‘s almost time for our next #Booked2023 prize drawing🥰 while we LOVE to see your posts on Litsy we only count those who submit the Google doc 🤓 You have until Midnight April 3 to submit all books read between Jan 1-March 31, 2023 🧭 to enter the #FirstQuarterDrawing:

Here‘s the link: https://forms.gle/DJJdqbFZydvy9ndv7

Cinfhen Nice job, Barbara 💕 2y
40 likes2 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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🔔Friendly Reminder 🥳It‘s almost time for our next #Booked2023 prize drawing🥰 while we LOVE to see your posts on Litsy we only count those who submit the Google doc 🤓 How can we be nearly finished with the first season already???

You have until Midnight April 3 to submit all books read between Jan 1-March 31, 2023 🧭 to enter the #FirstQuarterDrawing:

Here‘s the link: https://forms.gle/DJJdqbFZydvy9ndv7

Cinfhen Please share @LitsyEvents 🧡 2y
TrishB Done ✔️ 2y
LeeRHarry Done 😊 2y
Ruthiella Done ✅😊 2y
37 likes4 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
A Day of Fallen Night | Samantha Shannon
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Bailedbailed

Looking at GR, I‘m one of only a handful of people panning this book. But after attempting to connect with it for six weeks and 55 percent of the book, I‘m tapping out. Here‘s why. I didn‘t connect with or enjoy more than one character. That one character only makes up a small portion of the book. The writing is ponderous, lugubrious, and dull. I‘ve considered DNFing since about 20%. Around 25% I started to think the pace ⬇️

BarbaraTheBibliophage (Cont‘d) and action would pick up, but it just hasn‘t for me. Life is too short to read books I don‘t enjoy.

I enjoyed two other books by Samantha Shannon, so it isn‘t her imagination or world building overall. It‘s just that this prequel is not worthy of the later book, The Priory of the Orange Tree. I will certainly try more books by the author in the future. As always, YMMV.
2y
BethM At least the cover is pretty? And you taught me a new word! 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @BethM 🤓 I had the ARC, so didn‘t even get to enjoy the cover. Agreed-it‘s beautiful! 2y
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Meshell1313 Oh no! Am looking forward to when it comes out next week. I was hoping it would be as good if not better than Priory. Thanks for your review- it‘s def gonna help me manage my expectations. 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Meshell1313 The ratings on GR are super high — 4.62. So you may *love* it. I just could not get into it … even at my busiest times, it never takes me six weeks to read 450 pages. That‘s normally a seven day read for me. 2y
HOTPock3tt @BarbaraTheBibliophage I wholeheartedly agree. I‘m bailing on this as well. I loved The Priory of the Orange Tree, but cannot get into this one 😕 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @HOTPock3tt Glad to know I‘m not alone! 2y
HOTPock3tt @Barbara You‘re definitely not!! I kept wondering why I couldn‘t connect to any of the characters and why it was taking so long to get into the story…Then I realized I needed to just DNF. Like you said, life is too short for books we‘re not enjoying!!!🙃 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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Pickpick

My kids got me a bird feeder for Christmas. Now I‘m a bit obsessed. So I went hunting for bird-related stuff in the Audible Plus catalog. This memoir has ups and downs, both in terms of writing and content. But it‘s also about a small incident leading the author to remake her life and make a difference in the world. She knows nothing about birds and begins rescuing and learning about them.

#thebibliophage2023 #nonfiction2023 #likeavirgin

CBee Bird watching is one of my favorite things! 2y
Riveted_Reader_Melissa I‘m reading Mind of the raven right now with #NaturalLitsy you might want to try that too. It‘s on Hoopla 2y
Cinfhen I‘ve been enjoying your AMAZING photos!! That bird feeder has provided stunning opportunities 😍 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Cinfhen You‘re so kind. Glad you‘re enjoying the pix! (For anyone else, my IG is in the Linktree link in my profile.) 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Riveted_Reader_Melissa Thanks - I‘ll check it out! 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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Pickpick

Well-told audiobook that makes you question every side of the complex story behind both Trump impeachments. I have new admiration for some players and just SMDH with many more. Some new angles on the over-reported story.

#thebibliophage2023
#booked2023 #propernounintitle
#nonfiction2023 #badreputation

Cinfhen Wow! 704 pages🤯well done - I‘m pretty sure my blood pressure wouldn‘t be able to deal with that many details and page count xx 2y
Riveted_Reader_Melissa I‘m going to have to read this, and it looks like a commitment I need to plan for. 2y
Riveted_Reader_Melissa How was the audiobook narration? 2y
TieDyeDude It is so weird that the world practically implodes every other day with whatever storm Twitter whips up, and actually reporting (which used to be days or weeks later in the newspaper or researched and edited TV reports) is now regulated to books that come out months/years after the world has moved on from these events. 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
And Yet: Poems | Kate Baer
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Pickpick

An excellent collection that particularly speaks to the challenges of being a woman and mother in today's complicated world. Highly recommend it to poetry readers!

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BarbaraTheBibliophage
All the Birds in the Sky | Charlie Jane Anders
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Pickpick

Twice I tried to get into this book and put it down. The third time it all connected for me and I loved it. It‘s sci fi and cli fi but it‘s also about grade school friends who take different paths and reconnect as adults. Plenty of fantasy, great characters, and lots of action. Can‘t wait to read more Charlie Jane Anders!

#thebibliophage2022

Clare-Dragonfly Is this your first Charlie Jane Anders book? I think you‘d really like 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Clare-Dragonfly It is my first! I‘ll track down the one you recommended. It does look good! Thanks. 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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Pickpick

This intimidating chunkster has languished on my Audible and Kindle shelves forever. Finally picked it up at the end of 2022 and spent about a month listening / reading the ebook. Shannon's epic world-building is worth the effort. And now I'm diving into my ARC of the prequel, which comes out in late Feb.

#thebibiliophage2022

Meshell1313 So jealous you get to read an ARC of the prequel! Can‘t wait to see what you think! 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Meshell1313 It‘s why I started blogging my book reviews … early, free access FTW. I‘ll try to remember to tag you when I post the review! 2y
71 likes2 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Arca | G.R. Macallister
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Pickpick

It follows the main characters of her first book in the series, Scorpica, which was one of my 2022 favorites. These women are grappling with the changes happening in the queendoms. As rulers and women of power, they must hold their realms together despite uncertainties. And they each have their own style of completing these tasks. Just as excellent as the first book!

Full review https://www.TheBibliophage.com
#thebibliophage2022
#thxnetgalley

lynneamch Love tge scaley background on your post! 2y
62 likes1 comment
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Trust | Hernan Diaz
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Pickpick

Trust is structurally unique. Each perspective is told in a complete story instead of interspersing each perspective throughout the novel. So it reads like four connected novellas. But all the details are evident only when the last story is complete. Each layer offers new questions and a refined sense of the “truth.”

Excellent as an audiobook!

Full review http://www.TheBibliophage.com
#thebibliophage2022

81 likes4 stack adds
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
All the Birds in the Sky | Charlie Jane Anders
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That moment when reading parallels life. I took this pic in the morning. Several hours later I read this passage where the human character becomes an actual bird and tries suet (the stuff in the green cage — basically fat and seeds or nuts) for the first time.

#weirdsynchronicity #bookishsynchronicity #birdwatchersoflitsy

Leftcoastzen Fat & nuts! Hooray! 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Leftcoastzen LOL!! Exactly! 😜 2y
dylanisreading A fellow birder! 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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🎉🎉 And we have a winner for the last season / quarter of #Booked2022 ! 🎉🎉

Congratulations to @Smarkies for winning our random drawing!! And thanks ❤️💜💙 to everyone for all of your posts and conversations about books during the year. Now we can focus on #Booked2023 !

Cinfhen Congrats @Smarkies 🥳 and thanks to all who joined us in 2022❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️ 2y
Cinfhen Can you please share @LitsyEvents 💕 2y
rockpools Congratulations @Smarkies ! 2y
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BarkingMadRead Congratulations 🎉🎊 2y
TrishB Congrats 🎉🎉 2y
Ruthiella Congratulations @Smarkies 👏👏👏🥳 2y
Smarkies @BarbaraTheBibliophage have emailed. 😁 2y
63 likes7 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Untitled | Anonymous
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I finally have reviews posted for all of my #Booked2022 reads. Finished up in December but dealing with writer‘s block for detailed reviews. Another great year ✔️ and done! On to 2023 in which I plan to pivot from blogging into some other projects.

#Booked2022 4th quarter drawing (enter by midnight EST 3 Jan) - https://forms.gle/sMyR1gVJciu1HqkA9

#Booked2023 info and signup - https://forms.gle/3Q4vgqPq61bZekiNA

Cinfhen Way to go, B!!!!!! Can‘t wait to see what other projects you have lined up!!!! 2y
70 likes2 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Alias Grace: A Novel | Margaret Atwood
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Pickpick

This is complex and layered with the perspectives of a young female convicted murderer and her psychiatrist. Set in the early 19th century, it also explores class and gender conventions of the time. Excellent historical fiction choice!

Full review https://www.TheBibliophage.com #thebibliophage2022
#booked2022 #setinCanada

Scochrane26 I love this book, think I‘ve read it 3 times over the years. The miniseries is also excellent. 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Scochrane26 I've been thinking about trying the series. Glad to know it lives up to the book! 2y
LeahBergen I loved this book! 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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🚨⏰Friendly Reminder 🚨⏰ You have until midnight (EST) Jan 3 to submit #Booked2022 ⬇️ link for 4th quarter drawing 🫶🏼 https://forms.gle/sMyR1gVJciu1HqkA9

And if you haven‘t signed up yet….please join us for #Booked2023 - our 6th season ❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️
https://forms.gle/3Q4vgqPq61bZekiNA

KristiAhlers Just signed up. This will be my first time doing this one! 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @KristiAhlers Yay!! So happy you‘re joining us! 2y
Cinfhen Yay 😁 welcome @KristiAhlers 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Dawn | Octavia E. Butler
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Pickpick

Although published in 1979, Butler envisions a future for the Earth that‘s not just possible but probable. And amid the futuristic story, she writes about top-of-mind topics in our century. Butler teaches her readers through Lilith‘s experiences. You‘ll examine what it means to be human and how another race of beings might see us. Can‘t wait for part 2!

Full review https://www.TheBibliophage.com #thebibliophage2022 #booked2022 #hopepunk

Aimeesue Octavia B! ❤️❤️❤️ 2y
Cinfhen Nice!!! 2y
Reggie What kills me is when they put all the humans together again they‘re all wretched and think yeah let‘s make guns again. Lol, I loved this trilogy. 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage @Reggie 💯 Clearly, Octavia had no rose-colored glasses when observing human behavior. I‘m really trying to stretch out her books, in between wanting to devour everything quick AF. 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Cinfhen This would be a great choice for #partofatrilogy for #booked2023. I may use book 2 for just that! 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Aimeesue Yaaas!! She is amazing! 2y
BookBelle84 I saw these covers at the bookstore the other day and absolutely loved them 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @BookBelle84 I agree! I read an ebook with an older cover design. This one has so much more punch! 2y
66 likes8 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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Pickpick

This sweet prose poetry book is the perfect choice for a busy holiday. Thomas is lyrical as he describes small town Wales in an earlier time. I want to say more innocent but they had depressed economies and world wars to deal with. So it was just less techie but with plenty of heartache. Reminds me a lot of Ray Bradbury‘s tone.

Anyway, wishing my Litten crew a joyous or relaxing New Year now that we‘ve weathered (most of) the busy holidays!

Ruthiella Happy holidays to you! 🎄 2y
TheBookHippie Happy Christmas to you! 2y
Cinfhen Merry Christmas, friend!!! Beautiful tree ♥️ 2y
BarbaraBB Merry Christmas 2y
JudeCC Merry Christmas 🎁🎄😃❤️🙏✨ 2y
73 likes5 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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This is an excellent memoir on a timely topic. Boylan addresses the psychological, emotional, physical, familial, and practical aspects of transitioning genders. And she does it with humor, subtlety, and grace.

I recommend this book to anyone interested in one person's story about transgender life. The author does an excellent job reading the audiobook.

Scochrane26 This would be a good book for some of my teen clients who want to transition. 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Scochrane26 in some ways, it would. But it also deals with marriage and parenthood a lot, which is probably less relevant for them. 2y
Scochrane26 @BarbaraTheBibliophage Thanks for the info, I was wondering after I said that. 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Untitled | Anonymous
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Start your year with the #Jumpstart2023 readathon from @Lizpixie and @Clwojick !! Visit their feeds for more.

Clwojick Thanks for sharing, and hope you‘ll join us! 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Red London | Alma Katsu
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The newest Red Widow mystery is set in a world that is both post-Putin and post-Ukrainian war. It focuses on the relationship of Russia‘s new (and fictional) government with its oligarchs. Lyndsey Duncan finds herself smack in the middle of all the conflict and uncertainty as she works a case with her employer, the CIA.

Full review https://www.TheBibliophage.com
#thebibliophage2022 #thxnetgalley

BarbaraTheBibliophage This isn't being released until mid-March 2023. But I recently read Red Widow and decided I didn't want to wait for book #2. That alone tells you I enjoyed the series!

Also, #sorrynotsorry for dropping a couple of reviews today. I haven't felt like writing lately, but the bug struck me today. #hooray
2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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This was a sweet and poignant book, mainly because my dad died way too young, like Alice (and the author). I understood Alice‘s impulse to remake her dad‘s habits and possibly keep him around for a few more years. Straub‘s writing also floats around all many universal truths. Rather than repeatedly walloping us, she inches various options forward and lets Alice lead the way.

Full review https://www.TheBibliophage.com #thebibliophage2022

GidgetsTreasures75 Loved this one 💖 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @GidgetsTreasures75 It‘s just such a book from the heart. And then to have her own father, author Peter Straub, pass away soon after. 😭😭 2y
GidgetsTreasures75 @BarbaraTheBibliophage yes! I lost my father 22 years ago and this book just hit me with its love for the character‘s dad and then her own dad. How sad that he passed but I‘m glad he got to see this published. It‘s such a love letter to their relationship. 2y
82 likes3 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Double Booked | Liz Hedgecock
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🔔Friendly Reminder 🥳It‘s almost time for our final drawing for #Booked2022 🥰 While we LOVE to see your posts on Litsy we only count those who submit through the Google doc.
Here's the short URL to the form: https://forms.gle/sMyR1gVJciu1HqkA9

You have until Midnight January 5 to submit all books read between Oct 1-December 31, 2022 to enter the 4th quarter drawing! Best of luck 💚
Thanks so much for joining us - it‘s been a fabulous year♥️

BarbaraTheBibliophage @TheAromaofBooks Here‘s a link to our form that works! Thanks for your patience! 2y
Ruthiella I‘ve got two more books to go. 🤞 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Ruthiella You can do it!! I‘m about 80% through my last book!! 🎉🤞🏻 2y
TheAromaofBooks Yay!! Thank you so much!! 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @TheAromaofBooks You‘re so welcome! ❣️ 2y
34 likes5 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
The Light Pirate | Lily Brooks-Dalton
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Looking forward to both of these. But, I‘m cancelling #BOTM after this. In general, their choices just aren‘t working for me. I‘ve been waiting for my end-of-the-year BFF perks, but this is the time.

TheQuietQuill I did the same thing. As soon as my box comes I‘m canceling. Their choices just haven‘t been doing it for me either 🤷🏻‍♀️ 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @TheQuietQuill We can be a support group for the withdrawal!! 🤣🤣 2y
Suet624 It seems like there are so many other interesting book subscription plans... 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Suet624 Yes, I‘m sure. I do pretty well choosing my own too! 🥸 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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Every moment of this book is a story with jokes. Along the way, though, Aarons includes poignant moments and plenty of self-discovery. As an early Gen-Xer, I relate completely to her story, despite our differences. Aarons reminded me of how fraught the 1980s were for young women. (Not that it‘s improved!) And she managed to do so while making me laugh at the memories.

Full review https://www.TheBibliophage.com
#thebibliophage2022 #thxnetgalley

CarolynM I can relate to that title🥴 I refuse to identify as baby boomer or gen X - I think there needs to be a separate category for us children of the 60s 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @CarolynM I agree!! I was born in the last 6 WEEKS of “Baby Boomers,” and def don‘t fit with the earlier part of the generation. Not quite Gen X either but closer! 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Dark Celebrations | Calvin Demmer
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This collection is appropriate for horror fans to celebrate all year long. He takes typical holidays and events and turns them into extraordinary—and gory—celebrations.

No one does short-form horror like Demmer. His imagination is darker than an attic room with a burned-out light bulb on a moonless night. Every story is a full-on freight train without a single wasted word.

Full review https://www.TheBibliophage.com
#thebibliophage2022

Reggie I have not heard of this but definitely stacked. 2y
dabbe The cover is terrifying as well! 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Reggie Cool! Search out any of his work. This is the second collection I‘ve read from him and all stories I‘ve read are excellent! 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @dabbe Yes, I should look up the artist!! 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
The Wilderwomen | Ruth Emmie Lang
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Pickpick

Ruth Emmie Lang explores family relationships with a solid dose of magical realism in her new book, The Wilderwomen. It‘s a sweet and engaging exploration of sisterhood and the complications inherent in mother-daughter connections. This is my first venture into the world of Ruth Emmie Lang‘s writing. It won‘t be my last.

Full review https://www.TheBibliophage.com #thebibliophage2022
#thxnetgalley

CBee Her first book is probably one of my all time favorites! 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Practical Magic | Alice Hoffman
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This September and October, I went witch-crazy. I read this Alice Hoffman series chronologically, plus two other witch books. #thanksscarathlon for the inspiration. This series is pretty traditional with roots in Salem and witch trials. Hoffman treats the family genetics, witchery, and Nameless Arts, seriously, with limited humor and irony. Because there‘s a curse!

Full review https://www.TheBibliophage.com (combined with The Women Could Fly)

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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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Giddings takes witches and makes them relevant to the reality of the USA in 2022. It‘s a spectacular feminist speculative fiction novel. I enjoyed Giddings‘s debut novel, Lakewood, and reviewed it on my blog. And her storytelling in The Women Could Fly is one masterful notch up the scale. My favorite #scarathlon2022 read!

Full review https://www.TheBibliophage.com

Cinfhen Ohhhh, yay!! Excited for our #independentWomen #BigBuddyRead @BarbaraBB 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Cinfhen Yes! Will you add me to the list for this one? I read this for a local book club that got rescheduled for a night I can‘t attend. So I‘m thinking I‘ll reread and discuss with you guys! 2y
Cinfhen That‘s awesome for us!!!! Their loss our gain 😘 2y
BarbaraBB Yay, glad you‘ll be joining us and that the book is good! 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Untitled | Anonymous
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This was my first year doing #scarathlon and it was super fun. Since I‘ve got a nearly Halloween birthday, it‘s always been my favorite holiday. But, yeah, I‘m ready for some nonfiction and non-horror/supernatural books!

Thanks to @StayCurious for being a great #teammonstermash leader!! 👻🎃👻🎃🧡🖤🧡🖤🧡

StayCurious great job! Glad to have you with us this year! 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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We‘re super excited to share the 24 new prompts for #Booked2023 a yearly reading challenge split into quarters (seasons) ♥️This is a no pressure fun way to enhance your reading throughout the year as we celebrate national & international events 🤓Below is the sign up link and additional information 👇🏽

https://forms.gle/3Q4vgqPq61bZekiNA

Start scouring your shelves and show us what you‘ve got lined up 📚

julesG I'm tempted to join and(!) see it through this time. 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @julesG Join us and read whatever you get to—it‘s the journey that counts!! 😘 (edited) 2y
julesG I signed up. 2y
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Magpiegem All signed up for my third year 😁 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage I added #Booked2023 to challenges in the StoryGraph site and app. It goes live after they approve it. Here's a link: https://app.thestorygraph.com/reading_challenges/5d7b06f6-3fe1-470a-9d3b-d35b4ac... 2y
Cinfhen Yay @julesG @Magpiegem YOU inspired us!!!!! Glad to have you back 🙌🏻💖 2y
Magpiegem @Cinfhen I inspired you!!?? 😃😂… no. 17 by any chance? 🥰 (edited) 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @Magpiegem Exactly! Noted on the sign up form. 🤓 2y
Ruthiella Great prompts! Love the first one outta the gate! Maybe it‘ll inspire me to FINISH a trilogy! 😂 I‘m also honored to have inspired one too! 😊 (edited) 2y
Magpiegem @BarbaraTheBibliophage haha I missed that! @rockpools we are famous 🤩 It will be even more fun this year!! 😁 2y
rockpools @Magpiegem That‘s so funny. I‘m going to have to join now, aren‘t I?! 2y
rockpools @Magpiegem @BarbaraTheBibliophage I just read the signup sheet. That‘s even funnier! I‘m honoured to have my name against that prompt! Signing up now 😄😘 2y
Cinfhen Yay 😁 @rockpools @Magpiegem can‘t wait to see what each of you choose for this year for #17!!! I ended up reading this book because of each of your reviews 2y
LibrarianRyan already. yikes. 2y
DivineDiana Signing up! 🙂 2y
Cinfhen Here you go @PuddleJumper if you have any questions ask away!!! 2y
wanderinglynn I totally fell off of booked2022. But I‘m going to make up for it in 2023! 📚 Planning my #booked2023 stack now! 2y
kellyann28 I didn't do 2022 but I think I'd like to give it a go for 2023! 🧡 2y
51 likes19 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Untitled | Anonymous
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Soooo … I saw this collection of short stories on Kindle Unlimited and grabbed it up. I hoped it‘d be a good way to rack up points for #scarathlon2022. I‘m abandoning it after 14 stories. Now I have lots of points, but none of the stories really strike me as well-crafted. Creative horror / Halloween ideas, but hohum writing.

(Not in Litsy database)

#scarathlondailyprompt #story

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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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Been waiting until I can binge a few episodes!! So excited!

#scarathlon2022 #teamwatch #teammonstermash

MoonWitch94 Ohhhh I‘m starting this tomorrow! Can‘t wait. 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @MoonWitch94 I hated the Tom Cruise / Brad Pitt movie. But the series is fantastic so far! 🖤 what they‘ve done with the story. 2y
MoonWitch94 @BarbaraTheBibliophage I have never read it, but it‘s in my tbr. I love the Cruise/Pitt movie; but I have no reference point, so it will be interesting to see if I still like it after I read it. 2y
56 likes3 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Gwendy's Button Box, Volume 1: A Novella | Stephen King, Richard Chizmar
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Fantastic Stephen King novella—fast-paced and innovative. His MC Gwendy is an everywoman (or every kid) type. She encounters bullies, big decisions, and unexpected successes. But is it because of the button box she received one day when she was 13? Or is she just lucky? Set in Castle Rock, ME, for all the King aficionados. This is a great introduction to his work. And now, I plan to search out some of his co-author Richard Chizmar's writing.

tpixie I read the first two because the first one was part of my #Covertocover BookClub I hope to read the third one soon. Another good book of King‘s If you don‘t wanna go deep horror is 2y
tpixie Interestingly , the second book is written by the co-author with King‘s blessing, and the third book is written by them both again. 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @tpixie Oh, that‘s fascinating about their co-writing. Thx! I have no issue with gore and scary stuff. And *most* of the time King is more about how horrible humans are. Need to read 11/22/63 — know I‘d love it!! 2y
tpixie @BarbaraTheBibliophage ❤️🎃📚 2y
54 likes5 comments
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
No One Goes Alone | Erik Larson
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This is a soft pick for me. I like the historical details but generally felt like the story moved pretty slowly. The main character grated on me a bit and I didn‘t feel connected to the others much either. My favorite parts were the last couple chapters which are the creepiest. And the author‘s note was pretty interesting also.

It‘s only available via Audible, which limits its reach. If you can‘t access it, you aren‘t missing much.

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BarbaraTheBibliophage
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Fun unscramble game this week!! 👻🎃🧛🏻‍♂️

StayCurious good job! 2y
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BarbaraTheBibliophage
Untitled | Anonymous
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Another solid week. Thank goodness for Google Sheets! 🧛🏻‍♂️🦹🏽👻🎃

#teammonstermash #scarathlon2022 @StayCurious

StayCurious amazing! 2y
BarbaraTheBibliophage @StayCurious Thank you! I‘ve been reading short story collections to rack up points! 2y
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