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Librarybelle
Untitled | Unknown
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I am beyond touched by the many well wishes, good thoughts, and check ins regarding Zeke. And, the patience and understanding from my various #BuddyRead groups means so much to me.

Zeke spent a second day at the specialist today, going through a medical procedure to retrieve cells for further testing. The procedure showed evidence of issues. We‘ll find out in a couple of weeks an official diagnosis.

⬇️⬇️⬇️

Librarybelle ⬆️⬆️⬆️ Anyone who has gone through diagnostics with an animal knows how long the process is and how incredibly frustrating and draining it is. However, we‘ll have a definitive diagnosis soon, which will lead to a long term care plan. Thanks everyone! #Zeke #CatsOfLitsy 13h
Leftcoastzen Hugs to you , so challenging 😥 13h
Librarybelle Thank you, @Leftcoastzen ! ❤️ 13h
See All 19 Comments
Bookwormjillk It is so hard. Thinking of you and Zeke. 12h
Librarybelle Thank you, @Bookwormjillk ! ❤️ 12h
Trashcanman Wishing him and you the absolute best, always. ❤️ 12h
Ruthiella Zeke! ❤️❤️❤️ 11h
bookandbedandtea Sending love to you and Zeke 🩷 11h
Aims42 Keeping you and Zeke in my prayers 💕🙏💕 11h
quietjenn Sending love to you and Zeke. ❤️ 11h
dabbe Oh, that sweet boy Sending you love. 💙🩵💙 9h
KathyWheeler Sending you and Zeke good wishes. He‘s a beautiful boy. 8h
Gissy I hope nothing is serious. Soon recovery to Zeke❤️ 4h
TheLudicReader 😿❤️ 4h
Meshell1313 Sending good healing vibes! ❤️ 1h
Librarybelle Thank you @Meshell1313 ! ❤️ 1h
DogMomIrene Hang in there little man! More help is on the way❤️🐾 47m
38 likes19 comments
blurb
Librarybelle
The Briar Club | Kate Quinn
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It‘s time for the #LiteraryCrew monthly book discussion! I have 7 questions posted. You can find them on my feed, the book‘s feed, or by searching the group‘s hashtag. Stop by and answer whenever!

May‘s book is Morgan Is My Name by Sophie Keetch!

tpixie Thanks! 21h
Karisa Thank you! I loved this book 😊 8h
Librarybelle Of course, @tpixie ! 2h
Librarybelle So glad you loved this, @Karisa ! 2h
39 likes4 comments
blurb
Librarybelle
The Briar Club | Kate Quinn
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7. Discuss the murder mystery. Were you expecting it to play a larger role in the story? Were you surprised by who the victim and who the perpetrator were? ~from Plainfield Area Public Library #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

CatLass007 I definitely didn‘t see any of that coming. Quinn‘s characters often go through all kinds of trauma but in the end things generally work out for the best. The ways in which they all work out are often unexpected. 15h
Sace I was very surprised by the ending! It added to the enjoyment. 14h
Karisa I was relieved that none of my favorite characters had died 😅 It kept the book moving forward but wasn‘t really the most important part. I liked seeing the author pull that off. So clever! 8h
6 likes3 comments
blurb
Librarybelle
The Briar Club | Kate Quinn
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6. Food plays a significant part in the story. Discuss the symbolic meaning of the Briar Club‘s communal meals and how they foster a sense of belonging. ~from Plainfield Area Public Library #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Karisa Food does bring people together. Grace was wonderful for realizing it and taking a chance on her housemates. 8h
6 likes1 comment
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Librarybelle
The Briar Club | Kate Quinn
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5. Examine the themes of secrecy, deception, and truth-telling in the novel. How do the characters‘ hidden pasts and double lives affect their relationships? ~from Plainfield Area Public Library Reading Guide #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Jerdencon I think they all had their own baggage that they brought which affected how they interacted with each other and their views. 16h
CatLass007 I think the saddest example of secret-keeping was Fliss. She had so much negative self talk. When she was finally able to be honest with her husband it was so uplifting. 15h
7 likes2 comments
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Librarybelle
The Briar Club | Kate Quinn
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4. Discuss the role Grace March plays in bringing the women together. What does her character represent in terms of female empowerment and community building? ~from Plainfield Area Public Libry Reading Guide

blurb
Librarybelle
The Briar Club | Kate Quinn
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3. Briarwood house itself narrates some of the chapters. How does the house‘s perspective shape the reader‘s understanding of the events and characters? Did you enjoy hearing from an inanimate object? ~from Plainfield Area Public Library Reading Guide #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Jerdencon Honestly when I first read that the house was talking I was a little put off and found it gimmicky but in the end it didn‘t bother me too much. 16h
CatLass007 I love a good fantasy! This slight fantastical aspect gave insight into all the characters effect on one another and their environment. (edited) 15h
Sace I loved the house‘s pov! 14h
Karisa @Sace I enjoyed it too. Cranky but loveable place 8h
7 likes4 comments
blurb
Librarybelle
The Briar Club | Kate Quinn
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2. The point of view rotates among the women of the boarding home. Frequently
when we get to a new point of view we find that the truth differs from the
perceptions that others have. Why do you think Quinn chose to tell the story in
this way and what is she trying to say with it? ~from Plainfield Area Public Library Reading Guide #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Jerdencon I think it helped keep the suspense going this way. 16h
CatLass007 I enjoyed getting the perspectives of each boarder. It‘s a rare talent to be able to write something so difficult so well. Julia Quinn is a new “must read” author for me. And since I listened to the audiobook, I appreciated the narrator‘s ability to give each character her own distinctive voice. 15h
Karisa I liked the rotating POV‘s. Usually I get connected to one character and don‘t want to move onto another. But somehow she really made it work. 14h
6 likes3 comments
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Librarybelle
The Briar Club | Kate Quinn
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1. The novel is set against the backdrop of the Red Scare and McCarthyism. How do
these historical events impact the lives and choices of the characters? ~from Plainfield Area Public Library Reading Guide #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Information about the Red Scare and McCarthyism linked in comments.

Librarybelle History Channel info on the Red Scare and McCarthyism: https://www.history.com/articles/red-scare 22h
Jerdencon I found the time period very interesting because even though I had heard about the red scares I never knew much about the specifics. Always like to learn something new when reading. 16h
CatLass007 There were a lot of “witch hunts” during that time. This is the first time I‘ve read a book that references it. There were a couple of episodes of MASH that brought home just what a frightening time it was. Loyalty oaths and naming names. Lives were ruined. The TV show Babylon 5 had seasons where a different type of McCarthyism was rampant. I don‘t think it affected some of the members of the Briar Club much at all. But for others the (cont)⬇️ 15h
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CatLass007 events were catastrophic. And the paranoia about anyone who was even remotely different was sheer insanity. 15h
Karisa @CatLass007 Sounds familiar to some of the things happening today! It is scary stuff! 14h
Karisa @Jerdencon I like to learn something new while reading too. I think I‘d only heard mentions here and there to the Red Scare and McCarthyism before. I know that Marvelous Mrs. Maisel mentions it 😊 14h
CatLass007 @Jerdencon @karisa I just saw this article in which a judge compares deportation threats to the Red Scare: https://www.wsj.com/us-news/law/judge-release-mohsen-mahdawi-columbia-student-e5... 14h
Karisa @CatLass007 It‘s so sad how many lives are being hurt 8h
6 likes8 comments
blurb
Librarybelle
The Briar Club | Kate Quinn
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Tomorrow (Wednesday) is discussion day for this month‘s #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead ! Zeke had his visit with the specialist today with a medical procedure to determine things tomorrow, so I will post at some point during the day—the specialist is over an hour away from me, and he has to be there early morning with a pickup time in the evening.

I will tag everyone to let you know the questions have been posted!

CatLass007 Thank you. Prayers for you and Zeke. 2d
tpixie Prayers & good wishes for Zeke 🦄🦋 Safe travels 🚗 2d
See All 11 Comments
Sace I‘ll be thinking of you and Zeke! 2d
julieclair Prayers for you and Zeke. Hope you get some answers. 🙏 2d
julieclair As usual, I have not yet finished the book. 🙄 I‘ll jump in once I complete it. 💙 2d
tpixie @Librarybelle yes, I‘m behind as well. 2d
Sargar114 @julieclair same, same. About halfway through. 1d
DebinHawaii Sending positive thoughts & prayers to Zeke & to you. 💜 I‘m almost done with the book & hope to finish tonight. 22h
50 likes1 stack add11 comments
blurb
Librarybelle
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We‘re staying in 1924 with May‘s #ChristiesCapers . This first short story collection by Christie of course features Poirot. Discussion on May 25th!

All are welcome. Please let me know if you would like to be added or removed from the tag list.

I will post the story titles in the comments. This one should be the same in all countries, but just in case, our discussion will focus on the listed short stories. #AgathaChristieClubR3

kspenmoll I‘m all set! 3d
Librarybelle Short stories are: The Adventure of The Western Star; The Tragedy of Marsdon Manor; The Adventure of the Cheap Flat; The Mystery of Hunter‘s Lodge; The Million Dollar Bond Robbery; The Adventure of the Egyptian Tomb; The Jewel Robbery at the Grand Metropolitan; The Kidnapped Prime Minister; The Disappearance of Mr Davenheim; The Adventure of the Italian Nobleman; The Case of the Missing Will; The Veiled Lady; The Lost Mine; and The Chocolate Box 3d
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Aims42 Thank you for the tag!! Hoping to get back to it and participating again 😍 3d
Sace I‘ll be doing the audio book for this. End of the school year teacher brain = can‘t focus so short stories are perfect right now. 2d
Librarybelle @Sace I hope the audio is good! 2d
kimrenee I would love to be added to the list 2d
Librarybelle Of course, @kimrenee ! Welcome! 2d
41 likes10 comments
blurb
Librarybelle
Morgan Is My Name | Sophie Keetch
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I realized I never posted the #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead title for May! This is the first in a trilogy that features Morgan Le Fay from the Arthurian legend.

Read at your own pace throughout May. I‘ll post periodic check ins during the month, and discussion will take place on May 31st.

Please let me know if you wish to be added to or removed from the tag list.

Deblovestoread Looking forward to this one. 3d
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dabbe Thank you! I adore the Arthurian legends. 3d
Sargar114 This looks so interesting. Put it on hold for the library. Don‘t know if it‘ll come in time, but still want to read 3d
Librarybelle I‘m looking forward to it, @dabbe ! 2d
Librarybelle @Sargar114 I hope it comes in soon! 2d
CatLass007 I look forward to it! And right now both this and the second book are free on Audible. 2d
Librarybelle Good to know, @CatLass007 ! 2d
AllDebooks Looking forward to this one. I didn't realise it was a series. 😊 2d
Jerdencon I just requested it so hoping to join in! 2d
tpixie Ooh fun! I lived reading about Arthur as a child. Morgan will be fun to read about! Sygne Pike has King Arthur series I want to read about & there‘s a king Arthur with a female lead twist that Marie Benedict loved as a girl that I also want to read 2d
julieclair Looking forward to this one! Thanks for the Audible tip, @CatLass007 ! 💙 2d
CatLass007 @julieclair Anytime, friend. 2d
43 likes16 comments
review
Librarybelle
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Pickpick

I started this book not knowing anything about Millay, with a very fleeting knowledge of her work. Her diary entries are filled with joys and criticisms, some very mean spirited and cruel, as well as a vulnerable soul who fought demons and ill health. A great look at her life. A good choice for #SundayBuddyRead .

63 likes2 comments
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Librarybelle
The Man in the Brown Suit | Agatha Christie
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Time for our #ChristiesCapers discussion! I have 5 questions posted as spoilers; you can find them by searching my feed, the book‘s feed, or by the group‘s hashtags. Jump in whenever into the discussion!

Our next Christie is the short story collection Poirot Investigates featuring, you guessed it, more Poirot! I‘ll post the official notice tomorrow!

blurb
Librarybelle
The Man in the Brown Suit | Agatha Christie
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5. Let‘s think about the ending. Were you satisfied with the conclusion, especially the “happily ever after”? Were you surprised by the identity of the “villain”? #ChristiesCapers #AgathaChristieClubR3

willaful I wasn't surprised, because I'd read it before. :-) It also shows Christie's talent for misleading... she'd use the same method again even more effectively later.

I have somewhat mixed feelings about the HEA because of the history of South Africa and the gender essentialism, but from a story standpoint, it's fine.
4d
suvata The ending was sweet, with Anne getting her happy ending, but it felt a bit too neat for me. I liked her romantic wrap-up, though it was predictable. The villain‘s reveal—the Colonel—surprised me, though I caught some hints. I wanted a bigger showdown. 3d
TheAromaofBooks The first time I read this, I was completely surprised by the villain. I love that Christie gives us other, more serious takes on the “unreliable narrator“ trope, but here it is done so well because he's just so friendly and likable (in his way). I love that it's not a cheat - he never says anything in his journals that aren't strictly true. Rereading, it's fun to see places where he bends his narration a little. I actually have a soft spot for ⬇ 2d
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TheAromaofBooks (cont'd) Sir Eustace and totally would have read another book about him 😂

While I do think the ending is too tidy, I also don't mind because I'm a big HEA girl and like to see my fiction tidied up nicely in the end!
2d
MariaW I agree with @TheAromaofBooks. It was a nice to have to narrators, one being an unreliable one. He definitely brought in a lot of humour and I was quite disappointed when he ended up being the villain. But it was a nice move to not hold any grudges against Anne and accept a deserved defeat. I assumed there would be jappy ending for Anne the moment she admitted being interested in the man with the brown suit. Regarding the problemic points like (edited) 2d
MariaW gender and the historical background, I think there have been other novels in which they could be felt more. It felt irksome only a few times. But I had the check out where and what the situation of Rhodesia was because this something we never learnt in school. 2d
10 likes6 comments
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Librarybelle
The Man in the Brown Suit | Agatha Christie
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4. The Man in the Brown Suit received mixed reviews when it was first published in 1924, with some more negative reviews stating how they missed this being a Poirot novel. Others commented on the change in tone into a more thriller plot line as the novel progressed. Think about the progression of the story for you--would you identify this as a thriller story? An adventure story? A mystery? #ChristiesCapers #AgathaChristieClubR3

willaful I think it's maybe too lighthearted to classify as a thriller, though it does have its moments. I'd probably call it an adventurous mystery? 4d
suvata I would call more of a cozy mystery. It was definitely more lighthearted than her other books. 3d
MariaW It was definitely fast-paced like a thriller, but I agree with @willaful it is not shocking/thrilling enough to be a thriller. 2d
8 likes3 comments
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Librarybelle
The Man in the Brown Suit | Agatha Christie
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3. We also meet Colonel Race in this novel. Race appears in later books--Cards on the Table, Death on the Nile, and Sparkling Cyanide--when he works alongside his friend Poirot. Interesting we meet him without Poirot! What did you think of Race? Why do you think Christie decided to make him a recurring character in her novels? #ChristiesCapers #AgathaChristieClubR3

willaful Can't waste a perfectly good Colonel. 😂 4d
suvata @willaful 🤣😂🤣😂 3d
suvata I think Christie brings Race back because he‘s so adaptable, slotting into any story, unlike Poirot with his brainy quirks or Miss Marple‘s village life. His adventurous vibe and cool-headed charm let him hop from story to story because he‘s a steady and likable character, but he never hogs the spotlight. (edited) 3d
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willaful @suvata makes sense! 3d
TheAromaofBooks @suvata - I totally agree!! Race is such a versatile character. He brings a pile of life experiences, government connections, and a canny brain to the table, all wrapped in a cloak of “strong and silent type“ that keeps him from being painted into a quirky corner. I like that it also gives us this feeling that all Christie's characters coexist 😂 2d
MariaW I was already wondering why my version of the ebook was marked as „Colonel Race #1“. I kept on wondering how he would get away as the villian and why Christie would write more novels about a master criminal. 🙈 Of course I was proved wrong. He is somewhat portrayed as a stereotype British nobleman being entangled in the secret service and because being so taciturn taken as the villian. But again I felt for it. 🙈 2d
8 likes6 comments
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Librarybelle
The Man in the Brown Suit | Agatha Christie
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2. Anne Beddingfield tells her story, with the help of diaries from Sir Eustace Pedler. What did you think of this book? Compare Anne to the other detectives we have met, Poirot and Tommy & Tuppence. How does Anne's detection skills compare/contrast with the other detectives we have met? #ChristiesCapers #AgathaChristieClubR3

willaful She's somewhat similar to Tuppence, in having very strong trust in her own instincts and impulses, but she also thinks things through.

The book didn't age that well for me. The South African parts are uncomfortable to read, and the primary relationship is 😬. That aside, it's never been a favorite of mine but the humor and cheerfulness make it rather fun to revisit.

4d
suvata Anne is gutsy chasing clues on a whim, nothing like Poirot, who‘s all brainy and precise—he‘d totally roll his eyes at her. She‘s more like Tuppence, super bold and jumping in headfirst, but Anne‘s flying solo and kinda winging it. Her detective game is more luck than skill, nowhere near Poirot‘s genius or Tommy and Tuppence‘s teamwork. Still, she‘s got heart and makes it work! I love the way this story flowed. 3d
suvata As far as it “aging well“ is considered, it‘s really important to take into consideration the time period in which it was written. In 1924 this would‘ve been one of the few novels that had a female lead character, and I think it represents how many people thought at the time. When I go back and read older books, I have to also consider them a history lesson. I think Christy was truly a feminist at heart. (edited) 3d
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TheAromaofBooks Like @willaful and @suvata said, I think Anne's detecting is way more based on luck than skill. But I think she was a very forward-looking heroine for her time - her independence, willingness to just head off an international journey on a whim, the way she manipulated the newspaper guy into paying her for an article, etc. She definitely makes some dumb moves, but that makes her feel more like a “regular“ person vs Poirot's genius. 2d
TheAromaofBooks While aspects of this story haven't aged well, I also think some of the “me Tarzan you Jane“ aspects of romance are a bit tongue-in-cheek. I also loved Suzanne, who is married but still capering off to wherever she pleases (and sending obnoxiously long telegrams just to drive her husband crazy). 2d
MariaW I can only agree with what has been weitten here before. Compared to Tuppence Anne does definitely do more beginner‘s mistakes. I enjoyed her sharp exchange of words with Eustace and him drawing to the only conclusion of marrying her. 😂😂😂 (edited) 2d
8 likes6 comments
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Librarybelle
The Man in the Brown Suit | Agatha Christie
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1. This 4th novel by Christie was inspired by her adventures with her first husband Archie while traveling the British Empire to promote the 1924 British Empire Exhibition. If you have not seen Travels with Agatha Christie & Sir David Suchet, I highly recommend it! You can see how Christie gained inspiration for this book from her travels. Link in comments.

Was this your first time reading this book? #ChristiesCapers #AgathaChristieClubR3

suvata According to Goodreads, I read this book a long time ago. I was surprised to see that because I didn‘t remember any of it. I‘m almost done (only about 2 hours left). So far, I am enjoying it more than the first three. 😀 4d
Librarybelle Glad you‘re enjoying it so far, @suvata ! 4d
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willaful I've read it at least once before, though it was never a big favorite.

I saw an article about Christie surfing recently, so it was interesting to see Anne do it in this.
4d
suvata @willaful yeah the surfing part kinda took me by surprise, but in a fun way 4d
suvata @willaful interesting article. Thanks for sharing. 3d
TheAromaofBooks This is actually one of my favorite Christie novels, and one I've read time and again. I love Anne and I honestly love Sir Eustace. Parts of this book are completely ridiculous, but I just roll with it haha I love the humor and just the overall “we're having fun“ vibe of this book - it's a romp and doesn't take itself too seriously. 2d
MariaW @willaful Thanks for the article. And the thanks for the link to Britbox, @Librarybelle. Unfortunately, I cannot use it because it‘s not available in Switzerland. It was the first tine that I‘ve read this Christie book and I enjoyed it very much because it was completely different compared to the Poirot & Marple ones. 2d
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Librarybelle
The Man in the Brown Suit | Agatha Christie
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So sorry for the late reminder, but tomorrow (Sunday) is our next #ChristiesCapers discussion! I will post questions mid- to late morning. I‘ve seen some great reviews, so I am looking forward to the discussion. #AgathaChristieClubR3

BarbaraJean I'm behind on my reading (just starting today!) but am looking forward to joining the discussion in a few days! 5d
Librarybelle Sounds good, @BarbaraJean ! Join when you can! 5d
MaleficentBookDragon I am also very behind on my reading this month so I‘ll be joining the conversation late (again). But I am loving reading AG from book one! 4d
44 likes4 comments
review
Librarybelle
His Last Bow | Arthur Conan Doyle
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Pickpick

Overall, a good collection of Sherlock Holmes stories. Some are better than others, but they each lend for great discussion between the #NoPlaceLikeHolmes group!

dabbe Kind of a hodgepodge grouping, this one. Looking forward to tomorrow's discussion! 😍 5d
62 likes1 comment
review
Librarybelle
I Didn't Do It | Jaime Lynn Hendricks
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Pickpick

Murder at a thriller writer conference? Told from four perspectives, the narrative looks at a 24-hour period after a murder occurs. Twists throughout keep the narrative moving, and the multiple voice actors and actresses for the audio help lend to the individuality of the characters. The ending was just wow! #LitsyAToZ #LetterI

Susanita This is my dream mystery scenario (to read, not to live). 6d
Librarybelle @Susanita It was a fun (to read) scenario! 6d
61 likes3 stack adds2 comments
review
Librarybelle
Judgment in Death | J. D. Robb
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Pickpick

I finally took the time to finish this for #InDeathLongReadalong …I‘m a bit behind! But, I think this was another great addition to the series. We see a more vulnerable Eve in some ways as she navigates grief and love. We also see a very strong Eve who speaks of walking with the dead. A bit of a sentimental end. #LitsyAToZ #LetterJ

LiseWorks Absolutely 1w
StayCurious So glad you‘re still with us! 1w
64 likes2 comments
review
Librarybelle
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Pickpick

I love the Golden Girls (I‘m a Dorothy, by the way). Of course I had to try this. While this does not quite capture the magic of the television show, it‘s close. And really, can anything capture it (I have the same feelings for the Murder, She Wrote book series)???

Dorothy is accused of murder, and Rose has to put the St Olaf spin on her niece‘s wedding. There‘s humor with that heartwarming touch of friendship and family. ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Librarybelle ⬆️⬆️⬆️ There is a glimmer of the witty banter from the show, and it makes me laugh out loud in parts. Fans of the show will also pick up on allusions to episodes. Note that given how the series ends, this book takes place before the series ending, so it‘s not a continuation but feels more like a nostalgic look at the characters. I do wish Stan made an appearance—that would have made for some interesting situations! I‘m craving cheesecake now! 2w
Librarybelle And thanks to #NetGalley for an advanced reader‘s copy! 2w
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Mollyanna I love the Golden Girls and my hold on this book just came in. So glad to hear it was a good read. 2w
Librarybelle Hope you enjoy, @Mollyanna ! 2w
Trashcanman How‘s Zeke? 2w
Librarybelle @Trashcanman He‘s doing well today, George. Thanks for asking! 2w
MemoirsForMe Omg Dorothy! 😉 I must read this. I love those Golden Girls. 👵🏻🙌🏻 2w
lil1inblue Fellow Dorothy here! 🤩 I cannot wait to read this book. 2w
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Librarybelle
Untitled | Unknown
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Life continues to be an up and down rollercoaster!

#5JoysFriday

1. My boys…always!
2. Purina Pro Plan Lamb and Rice for sensitive stomachs— not what the vet wants Zeke to eat, but after literally starving himself to near death last week, I bought a couple non-chicken primary ingredient foods, and Zeke is loving this.
3. PetSmart for curbside pickup
4. IRL book club for non-vet human interaction
5. Spring, listening to the birds chirp

Librarybelle Zeke is doing better on this new food. He likes it, his belly still grumbles but not as bad, and I could take him off some of his medications. It seems to me he cannot eat chicken. I inadvertently gave him yummies last night with chicken as a main ingredient, and he was sick overnight into this morning, but is also begging for food. I almost lost him last week, again, because he refused his highly priced prescribed food and rather starve himself. 2w
Librarybelle I also noticed last week his refusal of chicken-based yummies he used to love. It made me wonder if this all stems to a chicken issue. We‘ll find out more in less than 2 weeks when we go to an internal medicine specialist. He has to go off of his steroids next week in anticipation for the visit, so crossing fingers he will be well! Thanks for the continued well wishes! 2w
MemoirsForMe Always nice to see pix of your boys! Oh my! So sorry about Zeke‘s issues with chicken. Sounds like you‘re getting to the bottom of it. Hang in there. 🐈❤️ 2w
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Librarybelle Thanks, @MemoirsForMe ! It‘s just a guess at this point, but it seems like more than a coincidence. 2w
Leftcoastzen I think you are on to something, I had a cat that had issues with chicken. I replaced with a food based on a less common single animal protein and it worked! 2w
Librarybelle @Leftcoastzen It‘ll be interesting to see what the specialist says and how any test results they perform come back. This is good to hear! 2w
shortsarahrose My sister with the cat with IBD has her on a grain free diet with rabbit as the primary protein. She was on a special kidney and IBD formula for a bit, but that made her 💩 issues worse. Sounds like the food switch is a good place to start with Zeke. Hope the internal medicine appointment goes well and he continues to improve! 2w
Mimi28 Best wishes to you and all of your cats 🫶🏽😊🩷 2w
dabbe 🖤🐾🐾🐾🐾🖤

Extra 💙🩵💙 for Zeke and his mamma!
2w
Librarybelle Thanks, @shortsarahrose ! I‘ve thought about your sister and kitty these last couple of weeks. I thought lamb was a good place to start—I had pet rabbits when I was growing up, so I‘m not sure if I could make that jump without thinking of them, though I know that is a highly recommended diet option. 2w
Librarybelle Thank you, @Mimi28 and @dabbe ! 2w
shortsarahrose Very understandable! Lamb definitely seems like a good option. 2w
ShelleyBooksie Glad Zeke is back to eating!! 2w
48 likes14 comments
review
Librarybelle
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Pickpick

This novel has one of the most psychologically evil fictional characters I have ever met. Be forewarned—parts of this are very difficult to read due to the actions taking place and the pure sinister behavior of one of the characters. We hear the story through Gillian, who as a woman in her 70s is reminded of a troubling episode in her teenage life, prior to WWII, when she visits the home of her friend Violet Claybourne over winter break. ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Librarybelle ⬆️⬆️⬆️ Gillian is entranced by the crumbling home and the old money of the Claybourne and wishes desperately to become friends with all of Violet‘s sisters. However, something horrific occurs one day that changes the lives of those involved forever and haunts Gillian. This is a slow building novel, almost too slow in the beginning, but once the reader realizes the manipulations taking place, it makes sense. ⬇️⬇️⬇️ 2w
Librarybelle ⬆️⬆️⬆️ It is creepy, gothic, snd unputdownable. Nathalie Buscombe‘s voice narration is stunning, and as things are revealed, her choice of tone can be quite chilling at times. So many red herrings and shocks in this one. Thanks to Libro.FM‘s advanced librarian‘s copy program for this one! #LitsyAToZ #LetterU @Texreader 2w
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sarahbarnes Stacking! 2w
Read-n-Bloom Sounds great! 2w
Texreader Excellent review!! But probably more than I can handle. 😳 2w
Librarybelle I kept saying wow while listening to this, @Texreader ! 😂 2w
Reggie Great review! Stacked! And the cover looks sooo pretty compared to what you say it‘s about. How funny. 2w
Librarybelle Thanks, @Reggie ! And yes…the cover hides what is in this. The UK cover is in blues, and I think that better fits it. 2w
63 likes7 stack adds9 comments
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Librarybelle
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Mehso-so

Jax stumbles upon a dead body behind her aunt‘s restaurant. Her father, a local cop, asks for her help in identifying the murderer. The second half of the story was much better than the first—it seemed to take me forever to read the first 40 pages. So-so read, though now I really want a milkshake! 😂

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Librarybelle
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In our 19th outing with Nancy, we go on a quest for a missing map. Will the map lead to treasure? How are Nancy‘s cartography skills? Discussion on May 15th!

All are welcome to join the #NancyDrewBR . Please let me know if you wish to be added to or removed from the tag list!

Ruthiella This is the first QUEST! So exciting! 2w
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Sace Looking forward to it!! 2w
Librarybelle Oh, thanks @Liz_M ! 2w
BarkingMadRead Can‘t wait!! 2w
lauraisntwilder I've been so busy lately I haven't read the last two -- and they're the last ones I own. My library system doesn't have any this far into the series, so I think I'm going to bow out. I still hope to read 17 & 18 this month. 🤞 Thank you SO MUCH for doing this. I've really enjoyed it! 2w
Librarybelle Of course, @lauraisntwilder ! Thanks for taking part! 2w
35 likes10 comments
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Librarybelle
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Thanks for the tag, @dabbe and @TheSpineView !

1. No…I file as early as possible. I even submitted my estimated 1st quarter tax for the 2025 tax season last week! Get it off my to do list and move on to the next item. 😂

2. I‘m reading so many books, but this one released today that features The Golden Girls conjures up nostalgia. And, a good word: cheesecake! #Two4Tuesday

Mimi28 Sorry I am so behind on #litsylove I will write soon. I hope you are well 🫶🏽😊🩷🙏🏽🤗 2w
TheSpineView I wish I didn't procrastinate. Thanks for playing! 2w
Librarybelle @Mimi28 I‘m really behind! I think I owe you a letter, so no worries. Life has been chaotic, to say the least. Hope you are feeling better! 2w
dabbe 🪤 + 🍰 = 😋! 2w
40 likes5 comments
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Librarybelle
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It‘s time for our discussion, #LittenDetectives ! I have 6 questions as spoilers posted. You can find them on my feed, the book‘s feed, or by searching #NancyDrewBR . This one was a bit of a hot mess in my opinion, but I just love reading these with you!!

I‘ll post the official graphic for next month‘s book, The Quest for the Missing Map, tomorrow. Not many variations between the editions this time!

robinb Nancy Drew, a hot mess?! Oh, the horror! 😂 2w
36 likes2 comments
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Librarybelle
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6. Circling back to the adventures in the books...adult critics for the 1971 edition indicate Nancy's near-death experience in the pool as atypical of the stories. Some of you have also commented on the James Bond-esque escapades of Nancy. I did not read this one as a kid, so I'm not sure if I would have been awed or petrified (like Bess) at what Nancy experiences. Any thoughts? A favorite adventure in the book to share? #NancyDrewBR

DebinHawaii I‘m pretty sure I didn‘t read this in my youth as I remembered nothing about it. I pulled out a lot of favorites in my review especially the Austin Powers vibe, but still go back to the “spa” pool of boiling water (just why?) 🤨 & Ned disarming the “beamer” but saying NASA had better check it—it just made me laugh & roll my eyes! 👀 But I guess Nancy needs a man who has random talents for disarming things like her Dad & his bombs! 😂 (edited) 2w
DebinHawaii I remain disappointed there were no sharks with laser beams attached to their heads. A miss by the author in my mind! 😂 2w
DGRachel @DebinHawaii Sharks! 🤣🤣🤣 The boiling water thing - I finished the book and turned to my mom to demand those two hours of my life back, giving her a list of the weirdest things, including Nancy and Ned nearly being boiled like lobsters, and she just stared at me like I‘d lost my mind. Even she couldn‘t believe everything that was shoved into 177 pages. 2w
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CogsOfEncouragement My favorite line from this mystery is after Nancy's friends get the leopard into the garage, and Bess runs off. She comes back with a tranquilizer pill in a piece of meat which they throw into the garage and the big cat happily eats.

George says: Bess, you're the heroine of the occasion!

I will certainly be working this into my everyday lingo (and no one will get the reference).
2w
MariaW How can the pool and the near death experience be atypical for a ND story? I remember coming across at least one in each novel… 🤔🤔🤔 I cannot say I have a favourite adventure, but the a list if weird ones: the car accident, the near plane crash and the stolen / rental car. 🤦‍♀️ (edited) 2w
Ruthiella I loved how Ned and Nancy stealthily hide on the top of the van to sneak in to the mansion compound. 👍 2w
dabbe Observations and Suspension of Disbelief:
1. Dad, will you buy me a house on Merritt Island next to dangerous animals?
2. Almost a #NNK when Clumsy fingers throws oranges at her.
3. Best Hannah line: “I suppose [The Resardos] won't show up until dinner is ready.“
4. The first time I recall someone NOT giving Nancy someone's address, phone #, hotel # ... (the postman won't give Nancy the Webster's address).
5. The maritime history lesson ⬇️
2w
dabbe we get from Nancy and her dad. They must have taken a course at some point. 🙄
6. Bud the pilot with his 70s lingo, fearing his girlfriend would think he “fazed her out.“
7. And of course the I-expect-you-to-die-Mr.-Bond aspect of the boiling water so that Fortin could “dispose of intruders in case his animals didn't get them.“

Nice.
2w
DGRachel @dabbe I was shocked when that guy wouldn‘t given Nancy the name and address! What? Privacy policies? In a Nancy Drew book? But she‘s so clearly trustworthy! 🤣🤣🤣 2w
dabbe @DGRachel IKR? 🤣🤩😍 2w
Roary47 @DGRachel @dabbe At least there was a girl near her that happened to know the owners. 🤣🤣 2w
dabbe @Roary47 Convenience is important in any ND mystery, right? 🤣😍🤣 2w
kwmg40 Like @CogsOfEncouragement, I loved it when Bess showed up with the spiked piece of meat! 2w
Librarybelle I loved that line, @CogsOfEncouragement ! Thanks for taking the wild ride this time! Let‘s hope the story line for next month is a bit more less “out there!” @DebinHawaii @DGRachel @MariaW @Ruthiella @dabbe @Roary47 @kwmg40 1w
Ruthiella @Librarybelle If there‘s anything less than a meteor in subsequent books, I‘m going to be disappointed! 😂 (edited) 1w
Librarybelle @Ruthiella 😂 So true! 1w
15 likes16 comments
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Librarybelle
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5. I don't know about you, but I found the supporting characters in the 1971 edition to be mostly rude. They just seem more abrasive than others from the prior books, including the culprits! I'd love to hear your take on the side characters in whichever edition you read! #NancyDrewBR

Bookwormjillk I agree. I didn't like any of them except I was glad Hannah was getting more in on the action. 2w
BarkingMadRead I don‘t understand the whole drama with the staff at the house. They ever actually did anything but creep around. How did the owner not know they were shady?!? 2w
bookandbedandtea @BarkingMadRead I was wondering the same thing! If you were paying people to oversee your business and "keep" your house surely you'd notice if all they were actually doing was sneaking around. ? 2w
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DebinHawaii Yes, the Billingtons seemed wildly out of touch & a little dumb. The secondary characters were all pretty much caricatures, especially the bad guys. 2w
DGRachel I was surprised by just how unpleasant the Resardos were. I kept thinking they couldn‘t possibly be the bad guys because they were SO obvious. 2w
CogsOfEncouragement So many of the scenes with the Resardos seemed like first drafts to me. Just not good.

I laughed when Ned and Nancy are in a position that allowed them to overhear what was being said in the moss covered mansion and the bad guys were good enough to rehash everything they did in one conversation.
2w
MariaW Far too many bad guys for my liking. How is a secret supposed to secret like this? Especially if half of the group are as subtle as a brick. And Fortin as the mastermind (like a Dr No) was a very flat character. 2w
Sace I was kind of surprised the Resardos *weren‘t* the bad guys. 2w
Ruthiella But weren‘t they kind of bad? I thought they abetted? 2w
Roary47 I always struggle with all the characters, but have to say Ned‘s mom talking to Nancy to convince her to talk to Mr Drew about buying the house next door. What Mom would say that to their kids significant other. 🤣 2w
kwmg40 @Roary47 I found that hard to believe too! 2w
13 likes12 comments
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Librarybelle
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4. To continue with the 1971 edition, I wanted to highlight a couple of elements. Remember, the Space Age was shining bright at the time of the revision, so it seemed Adams really wanted Nancy to take part. We get a brief tour of the then Kennedy Space Center. Link in comments to the official site.

I also learned about orange varieties! Link to a 2013 article about orange varieties in comments. #NancyDrewBR

Bookwormjillk I liked the parts about the orange varieties too! Who knew? 2w
BarkingMadRead The varieties were fun, who knew they had different textures and shapes? Not this girl. 2w
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DebinHawaii Learning about the oranges was fun. I was interested in the Pineapple oranges especially. 2w
DGRachel The orange varieties were my favorite part! Totally irrelevant fun fact, I used to work at the Disney-MGM Studios when the movie Armageddon was new and they had Making Of attraction. Oh the KSC trivia I used to know…🤣🤣 2w
CogsOfEncouragement Wanting Nancy to save a space mission was a good idea. This chapter book needed some more edits though. 2w
MariaW I thought there has been a lot of background information in the this, not only the Space Center and the oranges, but the Real Eight Museum as well. Unfortunately, it has been closed ever since. 2w
dabbe Thanks for the extra information! 😍 2w
kwmg40 I had really enjoyed my visit to Kennedy Space Center many years ago and hoped that more of that action had happened there. 2w
Librarybelle There seemed to be a lot of trivia tidbits in this one. I think the only type of orange available where I live is navel. I‘d love to try other varieties! @Bookwormjillk @BarkingMadRead @DebinHawaii @DGRachel @CogsOfEncouragement @MariaW @dabbe @kwmg40 1w
14 likes10 comments
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Librarybelle
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3. The 1971 edition. I'm still hung up on the whole “exploding oranges“ thing--who knew?!? Harriet Stratemeyer Adams, who worked on previous revisions (and, according to Wikipedia, claimed she wrote the first 28 Nancy Drew stories--she didn't), revised the outline and the story for this. There was a lot going on, and adult critics often cite the “strange elements“ in their discussions. What about you? Agree? #NancyDrewBR

Bookwormjillk There were some very strange elements! I didn't understand the car crash that started the book, was offended on behalf of the bad guy when Nancy expected him and his wife to wait on her, thought the I'll keep killer animals in my yard defense system was weird, and the whole space laser thing was very Austin Powers. 2w
BarkingMadRead @Bookwormjillk omg yes! So very Austin Powers! So many bizarre elements. And who would have large cats and not have a proper yard for them?!? Obviously they will climb the fence 🙄 2w
Bookwormjillk @BarkingMadRead right? I am not an expert but a main feature of a security system is that it should not wander away from your property. 2w
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bookandbedandtea @Bookwormjillk Yes, what was up with that car crash? I expected it to be relevant later. 2w
bookandbedandtea @BarkingMadRead Good comparison- it was Austin Powers-esque! 😂 2w
DebinHawaii There was so much over-the-top in it. It was just missing sharks with laser beams attached to their heads! 😂 Besides the 🍊💥& odd Dr. Evil style villainry, my favorite was Ned being able to disarm the laser.🙄 2w
DGRachel There was so much weirdness in this one and so much of it felt disconnected. I‘d totally forgotten about the car crash! All of the attacks on NASA were just bizarre and actually, the lack of security at KSC is what irritated me the most. 😂 @Bookwormjillk I snort-laughed at your security system comment. You definitely don‘t want it to wander off. 🤣🤣 2w
CogsOfEncouragement Yes, these books are often guilty of throwing crazy stuff in to sprinkle in peril that is completely unlinked to what is going on in the mystery. The car crash at the beginning and Mr. Drew's plane having to make a crash landing definitely go in this category. @bookwormjillk @bookandbedandtea 2w
CogsOfEncouragement Not only is it a bad security system, but no WAY would Wilcox from Animal Control think this was super duper A-Okay groovy. @Bookwormjillk @BarkingMadRead 2w
MariaW Why on earth would oranges be delivered to NASA first place? As a healthy snack for the crew? Because back then NASA as an employer wanted its staff to eat healthily? Or did they use the juice as a natural diluting agent/thinner? 🍊💥🍊💥 (edited) 2w
Ruthiella Agree with everyone. This was a bit 🍌👖. All the non sequitur events, the car crash, the alligator, the stolen rental, and why keep a pool of boiling water at all times, just in case? 🤣 (edited) 2w
dabbe All I kept thinking and couldn't get out of my mind were the crates of oranges being delivered--they reminded me of the crates of oranges delivered to Gatsby's mansion the day of his big party. And there were firework explosives later on! 🤣

And who knew Dave played guitar? They also did find time to attend church again, too.
2w
Ruthiella @dabbe I noticed that too! They always attended church. ⛪️ 2w
bookandbedandtea @CogsOfEncouragement Good points! 👏🏻 2w
DGRachel @Ruthiella The alligator! All I could think of was if that gator really meant to attack Bess, she‘d be dead. The gator coming out of the water with its jaws open felt like a scene from a bad movie. 2w
Roary47 Sooo bizarre! I keep trying to remind myself these were written more for a younger audience that wouldn‘t pick up on the crazy and impossible things going on. 2w
kwmg40 I agree with the other comments here. There were so many gratuitous scares that had nothing to do with the story, like the crash landing of Carson Drew's plane. 2w
Ruthiella OMG I totally forgot about Carson‘s plane having to crash land! 😂 1w
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Librarybelle
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2. Let's talk about the 1941 edition first! I did not read it, though given the very detailed synopsis on Wikipedia (link in comments), it sounds more enjoyable to me than the 1971 edition! This is the last book to be outlined by Edna Squier, and it was written by our friend Marion Benson. I'd love to hear what those who read this version thought of the murder, gypsies, plane crash, and forest fire! #NancyDrewBR

bookandbedandtea I can't comment on it as I didn't read it but the description has me thinking of getting ahold of a copy. 2w
DebinHawaii Wow! After reading the detailed description of the original it seems pretty crazy too. And it looks like there is a knockout for the #NNK 🤕 2w
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DGRachel Looking at the synopsis, I am jealous of anyone who read that one instead of the hot mess express of 1971. It looks like a lot more fun! 2w
Sace Now I want to track down the earlier edition. 2w
MariaW I agree with @Sace and @DGRachel. This version sounds definitely more likely than the exploding oranges. 🤦‍♀️ 2w
DGRachel Did I just order a used copy from a rare book dealer online? Yes. Yes, I did. 🤦🏻‍♀️ 2w
Ruthiella Whew! 😅 Just reading the Wikipedia synopsis was a lot! Would the climate of River Heights support moss growth? Ivy seems more likely. 😂 2w
Ruthiella @DGRachel It‘s an investment! 👍 2w
dabbe @DGRachel 🤣🤩🤣 2w
Librarybelle I was amazed by the detailed synopsis on Wikipedia, but it helped to show that maybe the original was a bit better than the revised. At least, there were no explosive oranges! 😂 @bookandbedandtea @DebinHawaii @DGRachel @Sace @MariaW @Ruthiella @dabbe 1w
14 likes11 comments
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Librarybelle
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1. Depending upon the edition you read this month, you may have helped Nancy track down a missing heiress and uncover the clues to the sounds in a mansion (1941) or help Nancy determine who sent explosive oranges to the Kennedy Space Center (1971). We'll explore each version in the next two questions. But first, which edition did you read? Any overall thoughts to share about the version you read? #NancyDrewBR

Bookwormjillk I read the NASA one. I'm a NASA buff but I think I might have liked the 1941 one better. 2w
BarkingMadRead I have the NASA one. It was fine 🤷🏻‍♀️ sooooo much going on 2w
bookandbedandtea I read the NASA one. It had some wild details but the nostalgia kicks in so I always enjoy the ride when rereading these. 2w
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DebinHawaii I read the 1971 NASA one. Pretty much🍌👖 I was going to try to find & read the original version online, but ran out of time. 2w
DGRachel 1971 here and I just don‘t even have words for all of the shenanigans. 🤦🏻‍♀️ 2w
CogsOfEncouragement 1971 NASA. It seemed a bit choppy to me. The writing just wasn't great. 2w
Sace I had the explosive oranges edition. While I ended up liking it, it didn‘t grab me as much as others. Nothing stood out as particularly eye-roll worthy. 2w
MariaW I did read the 1971 NASA one as well. There was a lot of touristy information in that one. Seemed like they had to fill the pages. 🤦‍♀️ 2w
Ruthiella Explosive oranges for me! 🧨 🍊💥 2w
dabbe Adding my explosive 🧨🍊🍊🍊 to the group! 2w
Roary47 💥🍊 2w
kwmg40 I had read the 1971 version. I had initially been excited about the story being set at the Kennedy Space Center (I had visited it many years ago) but not all that much ended up happening there. 2w
Librarybelle It seems like the 1971 was the easiest one to get! I think I‘m enjoying these so much thanks to everyone‘s comments. I laugh so much reading them, so thank you!! @Bookwormjillk @BarkingMadRead @bookandbedandtea @DebinHawaii @DGRachel @CogsOfEncouragement @Sace @MariaW @Ruthiella @dabbe @Roary47 @kwmg40 1w
14 likes13 comments
review
Librarybelle
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Mehso-so

I feel like this would have been better titled as “The NASA Caper” or “The Mystery of the Exploding Oranges” for the revised edition. The moss—covered mansion portion was rather contrived. I was very offended when someone questioned Nancy‘s ability of helping, as she‘s a girl. 🙄

Not the greatest, in my opinion. Discussion on Tuesday!

CogsOfEncouragement Starting chapter eight now. 🔍 2w
dabbe At 62%. Hopefully, I'll be ready on Tuesday! 🤩 2w
DebinHawaii Just posted my review too. This one was pretty 🍌👖 with the plot! 2w
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Ruthiella Yes, the mansion wasn‘t really the focus…then again, this one was all over the place! 😅 2w
Librarybelle It was all over the place and just seemed like maybe the revision author took a dartboard and determined the plot elements based on the dart throws. I know these are not the most credible storylines—so great for young readers and their imaginations—but sometimes they‘re ridiculous. However, I enjoy the ride! 😂 @DebinHawaii @Ruthiella 2w
TheAromaofBooks I loved the part where an airplane had a crash landing that was wrapped up in three paragraphs and had nothing to do with the rest of the story 😂 2w
Librarybelle @TheAromaofBooks OMG, yes! And it‘s kind of written off like not a big deal. Papa Drew was onboard anyhow, so I‘m sure he would have helped if need be. 😂 2w
TheAromaofBooks I guess when every chapter needs a cliffhanger, some of them are bound to fizzle out 😂 But I was totally waiting for Mr. Drew to take over for the pilot or something haha “I happened to take a course in safely landing passenger airplanes with stuck landing gear just last month!“ 😆 (edited) 2w
74 likes10 comments
review
Librarybelle
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Pickpick

I picked this up solely because it fit with a #BookChain2025 prompt! I know Bonneville from his work in Downton Abbey and Notting Hill, so I was interested to read a bit more about his journey. There‘s humor laced with stories on various sets and theater productions. Not recognizing Leonardo DiCaprio was hilarious! #LitsyAToZ #LetterP

TheAromaofBooks Woohoo!! 3w
61 likes1 comment
review
Librarybelle
Falling | T.J. Newman
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Pickpick

My local bookstore asks me to contribute reviews for their newsletter and handed me this one. I wasn‘t sure what to expect when I opened the book, but from page one…wow. Just wow. This is an adrenaline-filled rollercoaster ride, filled with terror and red herrings and so many surprises. Underneath it all is a statement regarding first impressions and the way we tend to not think how our blasé look at world events impacts others. ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Librarybelle ⬆️⬆️⬆️ Very thought provoking and very timely, given today‘s political climate and unconscionable actions. But, I digress…who would have thought a thriller could conjure so much?!? This is also a book about choices. What would you choose—crashing a plane or saving your family??? There are a few graphic parts, and I had to put everything else on hold this morning just to finish. Really good. I requested her second book from the library alresdy! 3w
68 likes3 stack adds1 comment
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Librarybelle
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Pickpick

This slowly revealing novel has themes of loss and regret and the power of love. It‘s beautifully written, and I greatly enjoyed the 1934 timeline. There‘s also a really horrible villain in the novel. In 1971, Nell discovers a photo of her mother from 1934, which starts a journey to learn more about her mother, herself, and her sister Evie. The audio was superb. Recommended.

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Librarybelle
The Briar Club | Kate Quinn
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April‘s #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead features the latest the Kate Quinn. Read at your own pace, and discussion will take place on April 30th!

Jerdencon Looking forward to this discussion! 1mo
CatLass007 I‘m looking forward to this and a couple of other Kate Quinn books for #AuthorAMonth. 1mo
DebinHawaii Yay! I‘m excited to read this one for this, #AuthorAMonth & #AuldLangSpine 🎉 1mo
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Prairiegirl_reading I will do my best! I‘m looking forward to it. 😄 1mo
mcctrish Getting it out of my TBR 🎉🎉🎉🎉 1mo
Sace I‘ve never read this author so I‘m excited about this! 1mo
tpixie Yay! Next up on audio! After 1mo
Librarybelle @tpixie Yay! I actually started The Paris Express and had to return it to the library without finishing it. Waiting for it to come back to me! 1mo
Deblovestoread I started on audio yesterday. So far it‘s good 💜 1mo
tpixie @Librarybelle I hate when that happens! 🚂 hopefully you will get it again soon! I‘m listening thru Libby, or I‘d mail you my book! 1mo
tpixie @Deblovestoread great to hear! 1mo
Librarybelle That‘s great, @Deblovestoread ! 1mo
Librarybelle @tpixie Thanks! I won‘t have too long of a wait, so that‘s good. 1mo
tpixie @Librarybelle 🩵 🚂 🩵 1mo
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Librarybelle
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#LittenDetectives : We are two weeks away from our next #NancyDrewBR discussion! Will Nancy be able to solve the mystery of the moss-covered mansion? What talent will we learn she possesses this time? Discussion on the 15th!

BarkingMadRead Started this today! 1mo
bookandbedandtea I'm sure she can! 😉 1mo
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Librarybelle @bookandbedandtea She‘s like the Harlem Globetrotters…it‘s kind of a guarantee she‘ll solve the case! 😂 1mo
Ruthiella I have confidence in Nancy! 😂 1mo
Sace Nancy will solve it, but will her noggin go unknocked? 1mo
Librarybelle @Sace Will we add to our noggin count??? 1mo
dabbe Who predicts a #nancynogginknockout? 🤩🤣🤩 1mo
46 likes10 comments
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Librarybelle
Untitled | Unknown
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There were so many positive comments left on my post last night that I think it‘s worth making this official.

This is very low key—no tag list, so feel free to participate how often you would like. I am reading one nonfiction a month that looks beyond the history found in schools.

If you would like to participate, post your book and thoughts each month, using #RealHistory and/or #HonestHistory . I‘ll make a bibliography for those interested.

Aims42 I LOVE this idea!!! 🤩👊🏻♥️💙🤍 1mo
Librarybelle @Aims42 Thanks! 1mo
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ncsufoxes Love this! I‘m always down for reading resistance. Everyone has to fight the whitewashing of history. 1mo
Bookwormjillk Love it! 1mo
ncsufoxes Love this! I‘m always down for reading resistance. Everyone has to fight the whitewashing of history. 1mo
Librarybelle It‘s so important to keep the voices alive, @Bookwormjillk @ncsufoxes ! 1mo
TheBookHippie Love!!!! 1mo
lil1inblue 🙌 🙌 🙌 1mo
Mollyanna Love it! Definitely going to peruse by shelves for selections. 1mo
Librarybelle Thanks, @Liz_M ! 1mo
Eggbeater I'm in! Thank you for including me. 1mo
Leftcoastzen 👍👏🙌 1mo
dabbe Please add me to the bibliography list. What a fabulous idea, m'dear! I'm looking for a book! ♥️👊🏻♥️ 1mo
JenReadsAlot I'm totally in!! 1mo
DebinHawaii Would love to be added to the bibliography list. I‘m reading this one for #SheSaid in April 1mo
Librarybelle Sounds good, @DebinHawaii ! 1mo
julieclair Please add me to the bibliography list, and thanks for starting this. So very important. 4w
MallenNC This is a great idea. I want to take part. 3w
56 likes26 comments
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Librarybelle
The Mill on the Floss | George Eliot
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New day, new month, new #HashtagBrigade book.

I‘ve fallen behind on so many reads and have found myself reaching for quick reads or books where I really don‘t have to think. Maybe this will be the month to get back on track.

#Zeke has had a good few days, which is nice. He‘s more active recently, and his only issue is not eating the food best for his issue (we see a specialist the end of this month for an official diagnosis). #CatsOfLitsy

BarkingMadRead Hugs to Zeke! 1mo
tpixie Glad to hear he‘s doing better these last few days! 🐱💛 Good luck with feeding Zeke. 💛🐈‍⬛💛 1mo
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Librarybelle Thanks, @tpixie ! 1mo
Ruthiella Glad Zeke is doing better. 😻 1mo
Librarybelle Thank you, @Ruthiella ! 1mo
dabbe Keep getting better, Zeke! And please eat your food! 🐾🖤🙏🏻🖤🐾 1mo
Librarybelle @dabbe Thank you! 1mo
Leftcoastzen Oh dear Zeke ! Feel better & eat your better food !😻 1mo
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Librarybelle
The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story | Nikole Hannah-Jones, The New York Times Company
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Fair warning…this may be a bit political. Though, as @TheBookHippie recently posted, reading is political.

I am beyond angry. Today‘s loss of IMLS, and the recent news of the future changes at the Smithsonian, are terrifying. Imagine a world without the services you rely on at the library or visiting a museum that provides a sanitized, incorrect history. In the US, that‘s what we will soon see.

So, I plan to read one nonfiction title a month ⬇️

Librarybelle ⬆️ …that tells a full picture of history, not a sanitized version of a certain point of view. History is made of layers, and up until fairly recently, most of the stories we know come from the winners or those with the loudest voice in the room. The last 20-25 years has seen an increase in the stories hidden for decades, because they were of individuals who were not of a certain demographic. The news is out; you cannot remove these people from ⬇️ 1mo
Librarybelle ⬆️ …existence again. I want to read these #RealHistory titles to keep the memory of those silenced voices alive. Feel free to join if you wish. This is more of a read what you wish each month, and perhaps I‘ll collect a bibliography of titles read. History is so important. The silenced voices are important. Books are important. My choice for April is this book way too long on my shelf. I‘m passed due reading it. 1mo
Bookwormjillk Reading is political! 1mo
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dabbe I'll start looking at my completely disorganized bookshelves. #beyondangryindeed ♥️👊🏻💙 1mo
dabbe @Bookwormjillk This should be a hashtag! #readingispolitical ♥️👊🏻💙 1mo
Librarybelle I like the hashtag idea, @dabbe ! @Bookwormjillk 1mo
Deblovestoread Great idea! I need to finish this book. 1mo
JenReadsAlot Great book! I'll find others to read as well. I'm just disgusted by this. 1mo
Eggbeater I love this idea, and that book was incredible. 1mo
Librarybelle It‘s a terrible time, @JenReadsAlot . I think this‘ll be a good read. 1mo
Leftcoastzen I have this one close to top of my TBR 1mo
Librarybelle @Leftcoastzen This felt like the right moment to read it! 1mo
Tamra So long this has been staring at me from my shelf. But, I did watch the documentary and I‘m hoping for more! 1mo
TheBookHippie @Librarybelle I too like the hashtag! @dabbe 1mo
TheBookHippie I have read this. It‘s very good. I think we should make a hashtag and I‘m going to go to my shelf. FYI our poet this month was political I‘m told! 1mo
Librarybelle @Tamra I‘ve yet to see the documentary! 1mo
Librarybelle @TheBookHippie I‘ve not read anything by Millay, so I‘m looking forward to it! I‘m bad at making catchy hashtags! I used #RealHistory , but I‘m open to anything. 😁 1mo
TheBookHippie @Librarybelle @dabbe is the expert 😂 1mo
Librarybelle Thoughts, @dabbe ??? What makes a good hashtag for this? @TheBookHippie and I would like to know! 😂 1mo
dabbe @TheBookHippie @Librarybelle #realhistory is fantastic! 🤩 Maybe #honesthistory or #hh would, too. 🤔 1mo
ncsufoxes A few weeks ago I pulled this book back off my shelf. I‘ve read about a 1/4 of it & haven‘t gotten back to it. It‘s one I need to get to but right I feel like there are too many important books to consume right now. All of this right now is so infuriating & well the only way to put is f—-ed up. (edited) 1mo
Librarybelle @ncsufoxes It totally is. Ugh! 1mo
DrSabrinaMoldenReads This tells the story of my history and ancestors. 1mo
Bookwormjillk Glad to see this has taken off! Great idea and I love the hashtags. 1mo
Librarybelle @DrSabrinaMoldenReads ❤️❤️❤️ I think this is a very important read! 1mo
bookandbedandtea I love this idea while hating that it's necessary. I'm eager to see the books everyone reads. 1mo
Librarybelle @bookandbedandtea Me too. It‘s awful we have to do this. 1mo
DebinHawaii I love this idea! I have been trying to read more non-fiction & need to get to this book in particular. 1mo
Librarybelle @DebinHawaii This will be my push to read it! 1mo
staci.reads @Librarybelle That book is SO powerful and important! That and Caste are maybe the 2 best books on race that I've read. 1mo
staci.reads @Bookwormjillk damn straight! 1mo
Librarybelle @staci.reads I‘m looking forward to reading it, and I also have Caste on my shelf! 1mo
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Librarybelle
The Man in the Brown Suit | Agatha Christie
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Great discussion so far for The Murder on the Links! Our next #ChristiesCapers introduces Colonel Race, who appears in a few other books later in Christie‘s canon. Discussion on April 27th.

All are welcome to attend. Please let me know if you wish to be added to or removed from the tag list. #AgathaChristieClubR3

Aims42 I‘m planning on reading this one! I started March‘s but I got distracted and never finished it 😂 1mo
mrp27 This will be another first for me. 1mo
TheAromaofBooks This is one of my very favorite Christie novels!! It's so over-the-top and funny; I love it! 1mo
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Librarybelle That‘s so cool, @TheAromaofBooks ! 1mo
Librarybelle Hope you enjoy, @Aims42 @mrp27 ! 1mo
Teresereading Please add me 1mo
Teresereading Please add me 1mo
Librarybelle Will do, @Teresereading ! Welcome! 1mo
46 likes8 comments
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Librarybelle
I Am Livia | Phyllis T. Smith
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It‘s time for our #LiteraryCrew discussion! And sorry everyone…I really fizzled out on this. I also really struggled with the book‘s writing, so there are only 4 questions posted. You can find them on my feed, the book‘s feed, or by searching the group‘s hashtag.

Next month‘s #BuddyRead is The Briar Club. Reminder will be posted tomorrow!

CatLass007 Oh goodness. It‘s the end of the month already. I had to start this one twice but once I started it the second time I enjoyed it. It sounds like you didn‘t enjoy it so much. How are the kitties? And how are you? (edited) 1mo
Deblovestoread I tried to read this last year and fully intended to try again for LC but it never happened. Sorry! 1mo
tpixie Sadly I didn‘t get to it either, but it looks very interesting. I just put too much in my plate- I‘ve been doing heavy research into Barbara Newhall Follett (still only 1/4 way thru 600 pages of letters ) before reading 1mo
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Karisa I tried but couldn‘t get into it either. It sounded like it would be something I‘d like too😬 1mo
Librarybelle @CatLass007 Maybe it‘s the timing right now, but I just did not connect with it. Oh well! Zeke is okay at the moment, but he‘s refusing the food he needs to eat for his GI issues. Sigh…I‘m tired but hanging in there. Thanks for asking! 1mo
Librarybelle I‘m really looking forward to next month‘s, @Deblovestoread @tpixie @Karisa ! 1mo
CatLass007 ❤️ You are so appreciated!! 1mo
Librarybelle Thanks @CatLass007 ! ❤️ 1mo
CatLass007 Lots of prayers and good thoughts going out to you. 1mo
Librarybelle @CatLass007 ❤️❤️❤️ 1mo
julieclair I enjoyed this and was glad I read it. I never would have picked it up on my own. Sending healing hugs to Zeke and to you. Hang in there. 💙 1mo
Librarybelle So glad you enjoyed, @julieclair ! And thank you! 1mo
41 likes12 comments
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Librarybelle
I Am Livia | Phyllis T. Smith
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4. Admittedly, I struggled with the writing style in this novel. I just could not connect with the narrative. Any comments on the writing or the style of the novel? Did you the first person narrative enhanced or took away from the telling of Livia's story? #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Cuilin Same as I said in another post, too much telling. It could have been better. I think Smith had an agenda to write Livia as a likable character. We could‘ve sympathized with her though, even if Livia had been written as cold and calculating as she was still a woman in a man‘s world trying to survive. 1mo
julieclair I listened on audio, and almost gave up because I was having trouble following all the political twists and turns, and couldn‘t flip back through the pages to reread passages. I finally decided to just concentrate on Livia‘s narrative, knowing that she was helping her husband(s) navigate a rotating cast of friends and enemies. Once I did that, I really enjoyed the book. 1mo
Pogue I thought the book was written for upper middle grade. The language was simple and while the topic was interesting I would have not said this book was written for adults. 4w
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Librarybelle
I Am Livia | Phyllis T. Smith
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3. Moving away from the characters, let's look at the bigger picture discussed--the Roman Empire post-assassination. How familiar were you with events prior to the novel? How does the novel portray the events?

Quick reference guide from the History Channel:

https://www.history.com/articles/julius-caesar-assassination-fall-roman-republic

#LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Cuilin I love Ancient Rome and I‘m relearning Latin on Duolingo so this was a perfect read for me. I found it all very believable. However the style took some time to get use to. There was a lot of telling and not showing which I hate in a novel. 1mo
CatLass007 I‘m afraid I don‘t know much history about Rome. What I learned, I learned in English class from studying the play Julius Caesar. And I can‘t help remembering the episode of M*A*S*H where radar was trying to impress a new nurse and he kept saying that the fall of the Roman Empire was caused from within. 1mo
julieclair My knowledge of Ancient Rome is sketchy at best, some enjoyed learning a bit more of its history through this book. I would like to read more from this time period. 1mo
Pogue I love history and when I was in school I spent a lot of time with history books. I am not obsessed with Roman history but I do know who the major players are. 4w
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Librarybelle
I Am Livia | Phyllis T. Smith
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2. Now that we have some additional facts about Livia, what did you think of her? History considers her to be cold, calculating, heartless, and ruthless. Is that a fair assessment? Think about the men in her circle. How does this novel portray them, and if you are familiar with them, is their portrayal in the novel fair? #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Cuilin I think this novel took a very different approach to Livia and posits a thesis that she was not as cold and calculating as we have been led to believe. 1mo
CatLass007 It doesn‘t seem like it was very different than that it is now. Women who are ambitious, intelligent, or have any so-called “masculine” characteristics are considered cold and calculating. Women had few legal rights back then but they‘re taking away women‘s rights right now. Did I mention that I have a cat named Tiberius? 1mo
julieclair Good points, @Cuilin and @CatLass007 . Because she was intelligent and ambitious, she has been considered cold and calculating. But maybe she was loving and loyal and good. We‘ll never know. 1mo
Pogue I think that for a long time only men wrote and studied history, and they only look at how men are affected by women. The view is narrow and not supporting of women. I think that Livia, like all women, are complicated and are more than what they seem to be. And that history short changes women. 4w
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