Welcome to Litsy!

Nancy Drew 20: The Clue in the Jewel Box | Carolyn Keene

This post contains spoilers

5. I have to bring up Ned for his own discussion point; Ned seemed to me to be a little tired of Nancy always having a mystery. He seems game to help, but I kinda feel like he would also just like to have a regular date without Nancy sleuthing... 😂

Thinking of our other regulars, it did not seem like we saw a lot of George and Bess this time, and Hannah and Carson did not appear as much, or at least in the 1972 edition. #NancyDrewBR

BarkingMadRead Poor Ned will never come first 🤣 Hannah was a lovely background character bringing things together, but still very much in the background! 1d

Bookwormjillk Ned is getting on my nerves. Mr Drew was around a bit more, but I agree the background characters were very much in the background this time. 1d

Sace George and Bess were practically invisible in this one. I assume more room was needed for Katherine and the queen. 1d

See All 11 Comments

bookandbedandtea @BarkingMadRead Poor Ned, indeed! He's always game to help but I think he realizes Nancy will always prioritize mysteries. I liked having Helen pop up again, even though we got less of our other usual characters. 1d

MariaW At some point it was mentioned Nancy had admitted herself Ned was her favourite admirer. That does sound like jovial feeling towards him, but not like love. He and the the other two boys are the muscle/extra number of people she sometimes needs for her sleuthing. 23h

MariaW I liked Katharine as a warm background character, but then again what is the chance of three expatriates/refugees of the same country ending up inRiver Heights through three different circumstances? 🤦‍♀️ (edited) 23h

Ruthiella I feel that Ned‘s comments are said with a wink. Sure, he might like an uninterrupted date now and again, but he likes Nancy as she is and supports her. 22h

CogsOfEncouragement I didn‘t appreciate Ned in the last book or this one. They should have kept him an ever supportive - do whatever Nancy needs no matter what or when Nancy needs it. Little girls shouldn‘t be told that a boyfriend acts this way with no apologies. 22h

DGRachel I should have read all the questions first! As I mentioned in my answer for the last question, I don‘t like Jealous Ned. I get that we‘re not going to have modern YA romance with these, but like @CogsOfEncouragement noted, his behavior is not something girls should be taught is okay. 🚩🚩🚩 18h

DebinHawaii I could do with less Ned.🙄 And it does seem like when new friends or a returning one like Helen come in, George & Bess get pretty sidelined. 13h

kwmg40 I don't have strong feelings about Ned either way, but I liked that there wasn't any fat-shaming of Bess in this book (unless I recall incorrectly). In fact, there is one point where George, and not Bess, declares that she is really hungry! 13h

12 likes11 comments

Nancy Drew 20: The Clue in the Jewel Box | Carolyn Keene

This post contains spoilers

4. Nancy's adventurous episodes are not as dramatic as in prior stories, but she still has troubles! I would have been so upset over the stealing of the hair piece, even if it was fake! Any thoughts on the “dangers“ this time around? #NancyDrewBR

BarkingMadRead I always think about modern times when these things happen to her. She would have been dead like 10 books ago! People have definitely killed for less! So many scary incidents 1d

Bookwormjillk The Ferris wheel part had me a bit freaked out. 🎡☠️ 1d

Sace As we read through this series I feel like there‘s pressure in the author to up the danger ante. It‘s why the books start to feel more like disconnected episodes of “The Perils of Pauline”. Like the reckless driver…no real connection to the mystery, just random danger/excitement. 1d

See All 9 Comments

Sace @Bookwormjillk another bit of danger completely unconnected to the plot…unless it was imperative to the plot to have yet another sighting of the pickpocket and for Nancy to be late. 1d

MariaW The boat accident in the second chapter seemed very far-fetched as well. There seems to be a lot of traffic on the waters surrounding River Heights. ⛴️⛴️⛴️ 23h

Ruthiella I enjoyed how Nancy herself committed two felonies: breaking into Mrs. Alexandra‘s house and kidnapping “Michael”. 😅 23h

DGRachel @Ruthiella Nancy‘s own misdeeds and everyone‘s rush to be helpful and tell her private information on her cases never ceases to amaze me. I knew we were in for another action packed story when the storm came up out of nowhere and the ferries crashed. The Ferris Wheel thing seemed more like a “we need more pages, people. What can we throw into the story” It made Ned seem like a jealous jerk, though, forcing Nancy to the fair, and I didn‘t like that 18h

DebinHawaii I would not have liked to be trapped in the Ferris Wheel at all! 🎡🫣 And I kind of forgot about the ferries—I think unless it is exploding oranges 💥🍊 or a #NNK the side dangers in the books run together a bit. 13h

kwmg40 The episode that disturbed me the most was Nancy's dress for the show being damaged by the barb wire. It was great that our heroines all repaired the dress sewing late into the night, though I found that bit very implausible. 😂 13h

12 likes9 comments

Nancy Drew 20: The Clue in the Jewel Box | Carolyn Keene

This post contains spoilers

3. The other piece to this story line involved finding a missing prince...who happened to be in River Heights! This leads me to think of the secondary characters in this one. Any standouts, for good or bad? Personally, I'm glad the gang left Francis/Michael/fake prince to find his own way off the island. What a horrible person! #NancyDrewBR

BarkingMadRead That was a fun trick 🤣 he was wretched, and so stupid to act that way right off. He could have been stealthier and stretched it out more! 1d

Bookwormjillk Loved that part. He deserved it. 1d

Sace I disliked him and I hated that the dog didn‘t get a redemption arc!! 1d

See All 9 Comments

bookandbedandtea That imposter was pretty dumb. Instead of being a jerk and robbing the old lady for temporary gain, he could have been nice and settled down to live a pampered life without anyone knowing. 1d

MariaW @bookandbedandtea & @BarkingMadRead This is how most imposters are put to justice, they want to much too fast. 🤦‍♀️ He could‘ve tried to disguise himself at least instead of being his natural self. 23h

Ruthiella I definitely copped on to the pick pocket double long before Nancy did. It was nice to see Helen and Jim again and Katherine and Mr. Ellison‘s rapid romance was fun. 23h

DGRachel I liked Mrs Alexandra and I loved Anna. I figured out the ruse with the pickpockets early on and was a bit disappointed with how obvious it was that Stanley or whatever is real name was, was an imposter. @Sace I‘m just glad they didn‘t kill the dog. I liked seeing Helen again. 18h

DebinHawaii I commented in my review that I love how everyone shows up in River Heights, which apparently is “The Riviera” of the Midwest. 😳🙄The deposed Queen, her subjects including an antiques dealer & a fashion designer & finally the lost prince— not to mention all the criminal gangs. It does make it easier for Nancy to solve the local mysteries. 13h

kwmg40 The fake prince was definitely detestable. I cheered when he was exposed! 13h

13 likes9 comments

Nancy Drew 20: The Clue in the Jewel Box | Carolyn Keene

This post contains spoilers

Librarybelle https://nycjewelryweek.com/unlocking-the-jewelry-box-a-visual-history/ 1d

2. Did you have a jewel box with a secret compartment? What would you hide in it?

I found this interesting talk about the history of jewelry boxes. Link in the comments! #NancyDrewBR

BarkingMadRead I don‘t and now I‘m sad 🤣 I do have a Gone With the Wind ceramic music box that we keep random old keys in though 1d

Bookwormjillk I wish. Not sure what I‘d hide. Some fabulous secret. 1d

See All 10 Comments

Sace I had a metal jewelry box with cheap red velvet lining and a broken hinge. I also had a beat up ballerina jewel/music box. I‘m sure I just kept junk in it. 😂 1d

bookandbedandtea Like many little girls of my generation I had a twirling ballerina jewelry box. 🩰 I have a wooden jewelry case now but no hidden compartment, sadly. 1d

MariaW Like @Sace and @bookandbedandtea I used to have a twirking ballerina jewelry box for the cheap sparkling jewelry I owned as kid - without any hidden compartment either. I am not sure if I ever owned something that precious to make me hide it somewhere hidden. But I am assuming in my wild teenage years I would have used it to store away cigarettes or 🌿. 😂 (edited) 23h

Ruthiella Like everybody else, I had the ballerina jewelry box with no secret compartment! If I had, I‘d have probably stashed money in it! 😅 23h

DGRachel I never had a jewelry box with a ballerina or a secret compartment, but I do have one that is a music box. I can‘t imagine what I would have secreted away, but I am a little sad that I don‘t have one with secret compartments. 18h

DebinHawaii I always wanted a box or jewelry box with secret compartments -not that I had anything good to keep there! Alas, I had the ballerina musical jewelry box too.🩰 13h

kwmg40 No hidden compartment, but I had a jewelry box that mimicked a stereo cabinet containing a turntable with a tiny record. It played “The Blue Danube“ when I moved the turntable arm. 13h

12 likes10 comments

Nancy Drew 20: The Clue in the Jewel Box | Carolyn Keene

This post contains spoilers

1. Here we go! Once again, the 1943 and the 1972 editions are fairly similar, so everyone read the same story line. Yay!

Mildred Benson wrote the original 1943 story, and Priscilla Baker-Carr wrote the 1972 revision.

Overall, what did you think of the story? Thinking of a few of our more recent adventures with Nancy, how did this compare? #NancyDrewBR

BarkingMadRead The one was fun, an almost kidnapping, but I read it a couple weeks ago, and now I can‘t remember if there was a Nancy knockout 🤣 the two guys were a fun twist that I suspected early, but it was a fun mystery 1d

Bookwormjillk This was a good light read for a summer weekend, but not super memorable. 1d

Sace I enjoyed this one. There was just enough going on and it felt a little more straightforward. 1d

See All 12 Comments

bookandbedandtea I thought this was fun. It was nice that the whole thing was set in River Heights this time and I liked the various mysteries. 1d

MariaW After reading 20 ND novels now, I certainly have to put myself up with the fact that there are always two mysteries that are inexplicably connected to each other and a lot of weird accidents/incidents. Now I am not shaking my head and rolling my etes anymore, I am just enjoying the read. 🤣 24h

Ruthiella This was fun, though I wondered why Nancy never seemed to have her car and the river and ferry kept coming up. It‘s like each book has some tidbit not really connected to the larger story (like golf or sailing) that they shoehorn in. 23h

CogsOfEncouragement It was a nice change up that others were kidnapped and/or tied up rather than Nancy. I‘m old, so I caught on the look-alikes were working together early in. But I thought that was a fun twist for a chapter book. 22h

DGRachel @MariaW Yes! I have found these much more enjoyable when I am able to let go of any expectations of reality! 😂 (except for the exploding oranges one. That was deplorable) 18h

DGRachel I really liked this one even though it felt like something was constantly happening and I‘m always a little disappointed when we don‘t get a #NNK. I‘m with @CogsOfEncouragement - it was nice that Nancy wasn‘t (usually) the one in mortal peril. 18h

bookandbedandtea @MariaW I have my childhood love of these books to get me through them now and I'm sure it helps that I remember them so fondly! When they are (often) over the top I just remind myself that they are children's books and carry on. 😄 16h

DebinHawaii Nancy‘s noggin needed a break after two knockouts the last book, so I‘m glad there was a little less action & danger for her in this book. While not the most exciting, it was a good entry & I remembered the pickpocket twist & the foot mark from childhood. 13h

kwmg40 I enjoyed this one a lot. I thought it was well paced and had good side characters. 13h

14 likes12 comments

Lavash at First Sight | Taleen Voskuni

so-so

I actually finished a #RiseUpReads before the end of the month!

I listened to this one, and I think I would have enjoyed it a lot more if I had read it. The voice actress made the main character sound very immature at times, or else I am way too old to appreciate the tone used. However, I enjoyed the family story, the growth of the MC, and the relationship side of the story. It also made me really hungry for falafel!

Catsandbooks

56 likes

Untitled | Unknown

Another stress-filled and at times horrifying week, but a moment to recognize joys:

1. My boys…always! They so hate me taking photos of them! 😂
2. Author event last Saturday and a signed book. Craig Johnson is a hoot!
3. Air conditioning, and it‘s not even sultry yet here!
4. Zeke has more good days than bad…hooray!
5. Litsy

#5JoysFriday

kspenmoll Yay for Zeke & your babies! 🧡💛💚 3d

dabbe 🖤🐾🐾🐾🐾🖤 3d

AllDebooks Come on Zeke x 3d

See All 15 Comments

Bookwormjillk I hope Zeke can sense how many humans he has rooting for his well being. Glad to hear he's having mostly good days. 3d

Librarybelle Thank you, @kspenmoll @dabbe @AllDebooks ! ❤️ 3d

Librarybelle Thank you, @Bookwormjillk ! Everyone at my regular vet office is super kind too and ask after him. We‘ve been going weekly for B12 injections—next week is the last of weekly, and then we taper. He‘s got a lot of wonderful people rooting for him! ❤️ 3d

mcctrish More good days than bad is a big win 3d

Librarybelle It is, @mcctrish ! Thanks! 3d

KadaGul Go Go Zeke Zeke 🎉🎊🥳. Boys are so shy. 3d

ShelleyBooksie Sorry to hear that you had a bad week but glad the kitties are.doing well ♡♡♡ 3d

Librarybelle Thank you, @KadaGul @ShelleyBooksie ! 3d

Leftcoastzen So happy Zeke is having more good days than bad . Hanging out with the kitties at the end of a bad week can only help ! 2d

Librarybelle Thank you, @Leftcoastzen ! 2d

Sace Glad to hear about Zeke‘s good days! 2d

Librarybelle Thanks, @Sace ! 2d

63 likes15 comments

Nancy Drew 20: The Clue in the Jewel Box | Carolyn Keene

pick

Not as many nail biting moments in this one, and thankfully no really odd episodes that make no sense. Nancy is charged with identifying the clue in the jewel box (hello title) and finding a lost prince. I really disliked the character Francis, and Ned continues to show a tad impatience with Nancy‘s sleuthing…

#NancyDrewBR

60 likes

Nancy Drew 20: The Clue in the Jewel Box | Carolyn Keene

I‘m starting my library copy tonight, so here‘s a quick reminder that our next #NancyDrewBR discussion will be Sunday! Questions will be posted by lunchtime US East Coast time.

Looking forward to the discussion, #LittenDetectives !

Bookwormjillk Oh man that‘s 5 days away! 6d

Librarybelle It completely snuck up on me, @Bookwormjillk ! 6d

Ruthiella I started yesterday! So far, no #NNK but a ferry (RIVER HEIGHTS HAS A RIVER?!😂) collided with another vessel and our sleuth was a bit knocked about. At least it wasn‘t a meteor ☄️ this time. 😜 6d

See All 9 Comments

Librarybelle Or explosive oranges, @Ruthiella ! 😂 6d

Bookwormjillk @Ruthiella it has an airport I guess it can have a river too 😂 6d

bookandbedandtea I'll be reading this in a day or two! 5d

julieclair I think I need to be removed from the tag list… I never seem to get around to reading these anymore. 😕 I‘m a Nancy Drew Dropout. 😔 4d

Librarybelle Yay, @bookandbedandtea ! 4d

Librarybelle No worries, @julieclair ! Thanks for joining us! 4d

42 likes9 comments

This Is Not a Game | Kelly Mullen

“The place looked like a vampire‘s lair designed by Henry VIII.”

I‘m inhaling this book—with gem statements like the quote above, I think this is going to be an absolutely fun read. And, I adore Mimi.

This is also giving me Richard Osman vibes for character, wit, and fun back stories.

45 likes3 stack adds

The Paris Express | Emma Donoghue

pick

Laced with suspense, this is based on a true story…the photo at the back of the book shows the aftermath of the event described. Donoghue tells the story from the perspective of multiple characters, before real and fictional characters, including an anarchist with a deadly plot in mind. And, the train engine is a character—don‘t worry, the train‘s perspective actually adds depth to the story. Fast read! #SebastianKitty #Zeke #Xander #CatsOfLitsy

dabbe 🖤🐾🐾🐾🖤 1w

TheBookHippie Awe 😻 1w

TheBookHippie I wondered about this book. The author is hit and miss for me. 1w

See All 12 Comments

kspenmoll I think I have this book-somewhere?! Your babies!!! (edited) 1w

Librarybelle @TheBookHippie This one felt a little different from others I‘ve read by her. I liked the multiple viewpoints, and there was an underlying sense of doom. 1w

Librarybelle @dabbe @kspenmoll Vladimir was also in the room, but burrowed under the covers on his favorite chair! A nice afternoon with the boys. ❤️ 1w

tpixie I thought that using the train as the omniscient narrator was a unique experience. I did enjoy this book. https://www.youtube.com/live/u5NoIC3JarQ?si=km8gbogbVlOzMpQL 6d

tpixie 🐱 🐾 🐈‍⬛💛🖤🩶 6d

MemoirsForMe Did the boys leave you any room on the couch to read? 😹 5d

Librarybelle @tpixie Thanks for the link! Yes…it was a unique experience to hear from the train, but I think it worked. 4d

Librarybelle Barely, @MemoirsForMe ! 😂 4d

tpixie @Librarybelle 💙🐱 🚂💙 3d

68 likes1 stack add12 comments

Murder at Mullings | Dorothy Cannell

pan

Cannell is not the author for me. Years ago, I tried reading one of her mysteries and had to bail because I did not connect with it. For this one, I probably should have bailed after the first half hour, but yet I persevered.

Cannell uses really long passages of dialogue and character‘s internal thoughts to convey the story. But, though set in the early 1900s, the language felt at times anachronistic. And, much of the forward motion had…

Librarybelle …nothing to do with the death at Mullings. The voice actress read the story very slowly too, so what was an 11+ hour audiobook felt more like 24 hours. Sadly, the author is not meant for me, but thanks to Libro.FM‘s ALC program for librarians for giving me the opportunity to try her works again. 1w

51 likes1 comment

Untitled | Unknown

@Bookwormjillk , your post inspired me to pick up some Milano cookies at the grocery store this morning. My grocery store had them on a super buy, so I bought three kinds.

Perfect cookie for reading! 😂

Thanks for the inspiration, Jill!

SheilaChew Yum! The chocolate orange ones are so good. 1w

Librarybelle @SheilaChew Yes! So good! 1w

Susanita 😋 1w

See All 8 Comments

Bookwormjillk Haha it was the sale that got me too. And so many flavors. Enjoy! 1w

kspenmoll Yum! The best cookies! 1w

Roary47 Oh man… I don‘t think I‘ve ever had these, but I grew up with a diabetic father with no control so… I better experience these now. 😍 1w

Librarybelle They are so good, @kspenmoll @Roary47 @Susanita ! (edited) 1w

Librarybelle Yay for the great sale, @Bookwormjillk ! 1w

56 likes8 comments

One Taste Too Many | Debra H. Goldstein

so-so

I really struggled with this one (and so did my IRL book club). The characters, especially Sarah‘s twin sister Emily, are unlikeable. Cozy mysteries are not typically known for strong plot lines, but this one seemed even more scattered than most. I liked RahRah the cat! I don‘t plan to continue with the series. #Vladimir #CatsOfLitsy #LitsyAToZ #LetterO #HasShortChapters #52BookClub25

Texreader

Leftcoastzen 😻👏 1w

MemoirsForMe Which sweet furry boy is this? 1w

Librarybelle @MemoirsForMe It‘s Vladimir! He‘s a bit harder to get pictures of…I like to say he hides and plots. 😂 1w

See All 7 Comments

MemoirsForMe Our boys do have unique personalities! 😂 1w

Librarybelle @MemoirsForMe So true! 😂 1w

dabbe 🖤🐾🖤 1w

JenlovesJT47 😻 1w

63 likes7 comments

Untitled | Unknown

#5JoysFriday

1. My boys…always!
2. Zeke continues to show no adverse reactions to chemo.
3. Last weekend‘s birthday weekend, filled with books and my parents, who made my day feel special.
4. IRL book club
5. Catching up on the drama in Virgin River on Netflix.

Luke-XVX Belated birthday wishes! 1w

Librarybelle Thank you, @Luke-XVX ! 1w

MemoirsForMe 😻😻😻 1w

See All 12 Comments

TheBookHippie Your card is so late 🤦🏻‍♀️🤣😵‍💫🫣 I‘m so happy things are going well!! 1w

Luke-XVX Did you score many book presents? 1w

dabbe 🖤🐾🐾🐾🐾🖤 1w

Librarybelle @TheBookHippie No worries! I was just thinking this morning I need to get my thank you card out to you! Time is so weird lately 😂 1w

Librarybelle @Luke-XVX I got to do a bookstore shopping spree and grab books I wanted! So, a nice treat! 1w

Librarybelle Thanks, @MemoirsForMe @dabbe ! 1w

mcctrish So glad Zeke is on an even keel with chemo 1w

Librarybelle Thanks, @mcctrish . Me too! 1w

Luke-XVX Excellent! 1w

49 likes12 comments

A Front Page Affair | Radha Vatsal

so-so

Sadly, I was a bit underwhelmed with this one. The premise is interesting—female journalist in WWI era stumbles upon a dead body, and she is determined to find out whodunit. While I appreciate the historical facts placed into the narrative, it leaves the flow of the story a bit disjointed. I may consider reading book two at some point, but am not in a hurry to pick it up.

48 likes

Untitled | Unknown

Thank you for the lovely birthday wishes! Special thanks to @MemoirsForMe , @TheSpineView , and @dabbe for the lovely cards! And Donna, I laughed so hard when I saw the change purse! It‘s so true!! 😂

My #birthdayhaul yesterday consists of books in series I‘m currently reading, new to me authors, and an ARC that the bookstore employees gave me since it was my birthday shopping day.

I am so happy to be part of such a wonderful community! ❤️

Librarybelle I am embarrassingly behind on my letter correspondence—some of you are waiting for replies from last fall! Replies will come eventually, once I stop having big life issues. 😂 2w

TheSpineView 🥳🥳🥳 2w

MemoirsForMe 😘😘😘😂😂😂 2w

See All 12 Comments

sarahbarnes Happy Birthday!! 🎉 2w

dabbe @Librarybelle Absolutely NO worries. You do you and love up those kitties! 😍 2w

Deblovestoread Happy birthday 🎂 2w

Librarybelle Thank you, @sarahbarnes @Deblovestoread ! ❤️ 2w

Librarybelle @dabbe ❤️ 2w

DaveGreen7777 Hope you had a wonderful birthday, Jess! 2w

Librarybelle I did, thank you @DaveGreen7777 ! 2w

NatalieR Glad you had a happy birthday! 🎈🎉🎂 📚 2w

Librarybelle Thank you, @NatalieR ! 2w

56 likes12 comments

Wives and Daughters | Elizabeth Gaskell

To say my reading has been erratic and at times nonexistent the last few months is an understatement, and yet I persevere and start more books! 😂

Gaskell‘s writing is amazing, and thanks to #HashtagBrigade I can finally move Wives and Daughters to the “currently reading” stack.

#Zeke , #SebastianKitty , and #Xander are resting after food (and the first pill of the day for Zeke). #CatsOfLitsy

BarkingMadRead

BarkingMadRead Book twins! That‘s the copy I have! 2w

Librarybelle @BarkingMadRead 😁 2w

julieclair So cozy! 😻😻😻 2w

See All 12 Comments

Librarybelle It is, @julieclair ! 2w

Mollyanna Some time that‘s all you can do! Enjoy your cozy reading moment. 2w

Librarybelle @Mollyanna 😻 2w

AlaMich Good thing your bed won‘t fly away now! 2w

Librarybelle @AlaMich I know! 😂 2w

robinb Awww…nothing sweeter than a bed full of kitties! 🩵🩵🩵 2w

Librarybelle @robinb ❤️❤️❤️ 2w

dabbe #adorablecutenessoverload 🖤🐾🐾🐾🐾🖤 2w

Librarybelle @dabbe ❤️❤️❤️ 2w

70 likes1 stack add12 comments

Untitled | Unknown

June‘s #BookSpinBingo list!

TheAromaofBooks

TheAromaofBooks Woohoo!!! 2w

38 likes1 comment

Morgan Is My Name | Sophie Keetch

#LiteraryCrew : I am so sorry I fizzled on my hostess duties this month! My priories were caring for Zeke, so lots of things fell through the cracks.

That being said, I have 6 discussion questions posted as spoilers; they can be found on my feed, the book‘s feed, or by searching the group‘s hashtag. I did not get to read this one, but the reviews I read make this sound amazing! Hope you enjoyed!

mcctrish, mjdowens, melissajayne, Jerdencon, tpixie, LapReader, Cuilin, kspenmoll, PurpleyPumpkin, Prairiegirl_reading, Deblovestoread, Sace, CatLass007, Mollyanna, BookwormAHN, Pogue, dabbe, Sargar114, Karisa, bumpinthenight, Singout, julieclair, AllDebooks, Lkempf

mcctrish I never got to it either - couldn‘t seem to get my hands on a copy and now I‘m ready for June already 🤷🏻‍♀️ you always pick such great books 2w

CatLass007 I haven‘t even started this book yet. Molly‘s not doing well but she‘s holding her own. I only can blame my library for all my holds coming in at once. 2w

Librarybelle If you do get to it, it sounds fascinating @mcctrish @CatLass007 . The reviews I read highlight a strong female cast, hence the classification of a feminist retelling. Maybe I can read this soon… 2w

See All 20 Comments

Librarybelle So sorry to hear about Molly, @CatLass007 ❤️ 2w

Jerdencon Sending good thoughts for Zeke and Molly 💕 2w

Librarybelle Thanks, @Jerdencon ! 2w

Cuilin @mcctrish @CatLass007 if you have Audible it‘s free. No credits needed. The narrator is Vanessa Kirby. She is amazing!!!! 2w

CatLass007 @Cuilin I have it on Audible. But thank you!❤️ 2w

Cuilin @CatLass007 Fabulous, I loved the narration so much I‘m starting book 2. Hope Molly feels better soon. (edited) 2w

CatLass007 @Cuilin Thank you. 2w

PurpleyPumpkin I‘m almost halfway through and really enjoying it! I‘ll be sure to circle back to your questions once I‘m finished. 😉 2w

Librarybelle Yay, @PurpleyPumpkin ! 2w

julieclair I‘ve been traveling a lot this month, and my reading has suffered, lol. I haven‘t started, but I‘m really looking forward to reading it at some point. The #LiteraryCrew books are always excellent! 💙💜💙 2w

julieclair @Librarybelle @CatLass007 Sending hugs as you care for Zeke and Molly. 💝💝💝 2w

Librarybelle Thank you, @julieclair ! 2w

Mollyanna Work has been horrible lately, and my reading time has plummeted. I have my copy and am hoping to get to it soon. It looks good. Best to Zeke and Molly @CatLass007 2w

Librarybelle Thanks, @Mollyanna ! 2w

Sargar114 No worries! I‘ve been suffering on my reading. Got this from the library this week so will still try to read 💚 2w

CatLass007 @Mollyanna Molly sends her love😻. I hope your work situation improves. I understand how difficult things can be on some jobs or with coworkers or supervisors. Do what you need to take care of you.🐾🐾🐾 2w

Librarybelle @Sargar114 I want to get to this one too! 2w

40 likes1 stack add20 comments

Morgan Is My Name | Sophie Keetch

This post contains spoilers

6. This ties into an earlier question regarding the pace of the story and the planned trilogy. Do you plan to continue with the trilogy? Book Two, Le Fay, was recently published. #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Cuilin Yes. Also free if you have Audible. 2w

LeeRHarry Yes I do - have number 2 on my shelves already. 😊 2w

Jerdencon Yes… definitely! This was a good choice! 2w

Deblovestoread Yes, I already have book two on audible. 2w

7 likes4 comments

Morgan Is My Name | Sophie Keetch

This post contains spoilers

5. One reviewer mentioned the vividness of the landscape and that the strong sense of place and setting could almost be considered a character in the novel. Do you agree or disagree? Why or why not? #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Cuilin Tintagle is still on my bucket list of places to visit. 2w

LeeRHarry Agree. I thought it had a good sense of place from memory. 2w

Deblovestoread I could definitely place myself in each scene, the descriptions were done so well. 2w

7 likes3 comments

Morgan Is My Name | Sophie Keetch

This post contains spoilers

4. Think about the other characters in the novel. One reviewer felt that the female characters all showed strength and growth in the novel. What are your thoughts? Any standout characters to you beyond Morgan? #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Cuilin I agree with this reviewer. I especially liked Alice. 2w

Deblovestoread I agree as well. 2w

7 likes2 comments

Morgan Is My Name | Sophie Keetch

This post contains spoilers

3. Keetch has stated that she set out to retell Morgan's story, but in fact Morgan had so much to say that Keetch realized she needed to expand Morgan's story into three books. One could consider this to be the “origin story“ of Morgan, as she is young and starting out in the world of magic.

Think of the story progression in this novel. Do you agree or disagree with Keetch's assessment? Is this a multiple book story? #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Cuilin Yes, I think it is quite possible to stretch the story into a trilogy. The time in the convent alone could‘ve been a whole book. 2w

Jerdencon I def could see a trilogy… she‘s still so young at the end of the first book. I plan to read the other 2. 2w

Deblovestoread Looking forward to book 2. Hopefully she weaves a tale that maintains interest for 3 books. 2w

8 likes3 comments

Morgan Is My Name | Sophie Keetch

This post contains spoilers

2. Thinking about the Arthurian legend, and Morgan's portrayal throughout as the villain, this novel (and trilogy) aims to tell Morgan's side of the story, or her story through her eyes. In some reviews, reviewers felt this humanizes Morgan, or at least adds layers to the “villain“ persona of Morgan. Do you agree? Why or why not? #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Cuilin It certainly humanizes Morgan. Since this is only book one, you only get glimpses of her villain origin story. I will definitely read the next one. 2w

Jerdencon You can see them starting to put the story in place of her being the villain but you do feel bad for her at times. 2w

Deblovestoread Because I wasn‘t aware she was a villain I didn‘t have a back story to taint her as I read. I met a woman who was intelligent but continually put in her place. I did see where the dark side called to her. 2w

7 likes3 comments

Morgan Is My Name | Sophie Keetch

This post contains spoilers

Librarybelle https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/social-sciences-and-humanities/morgan-le... 2w

1. This first in a planned trilogy is a feminist take on the legendary Morgan le Fay. How familiar were you with her legend before reading this book? Link in comments to some basic info on Morgan. #LiteraryCrew #BuddyRead

Cuilin I love Arthurian mythology so I was pretty familiar with this story and was interested to see this author‘s take on a well-known legend. 2w

LeeRHarry I was vaguely familiar. I loved the writing and pace of this book. 2w

Jerdencon I really enjoyed this too. I know the basics of the story but not much specifics. 2w

Deblovestoread I had vague knowledge. Enjoyed getting to know this Morgan. 2w

6 likes1 stack add5 comments

Untitled | Unknown

#5JoysFriday

1. My boys…always!
2. Zeke started chemo this week, and so far he has had no adverse reactions.
3. Scoring an ARC of the latest Mona Awad through NetGalley!
4. Receiving my signed copy of the newest Nora Roberts from her bookstore
5. Sebastian‘s continued insistence to sit in the clean water bowl—it makes me laugh (and then rewash it)

Leftcoastzen Cats ! cats! Cats! Yay Zeke ! 😻😻😻😻 2w

Librarybelle @Leftcoastzen 😺 2w

TheBookHippie ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️ 2w

See All 9 Comments

Luke-XVX Once again, top tier cat content haha 2w

Librarybelle Thanks, @TheBookHippie @Luke-XVX ! 2w

dabbe Go, Zeke, go! 🤩😘🤩 2w

Librarybelle Thanks, @dabbe ! 2w

Sparklemn The bowl…LOL! 2w

Librarybelle @Sparklemn Sebastian is so silly! 😂 2w

44 likes9 comments

We Love You, Bunny | Mona Awad

My excitement level is through the roof! Bunny was so odd and so fun; I cannot wait to go back to that world! #NetGalley

Ruthiella Awesome! 👏 👏👏 I‘m curious to see if it is as good as its predecessor. 3w

Librarybelle Me too, @Ruthiella ! 3w

RaeLovesToRead Yaaaaaaargh!!!! Cannot request at this time apparently 😢 3w

See All 6 Comments

Librarybelle @RaeLovesToRead 😔 3w

sarahbarnes Wow, how cool!! 2w

Librarybelle I‘m really looking forward to it, @sarahbarnes ! 2w

52 likes1 stack add6 comments

The Love Haters: A Novel | Katherine Center

pick

While I liked this one, it was not my favorite of Center‘s works (I really loved The Bodyguard and greatly enjoyed Hello Stranger). Parts of it were a bit unbelievable, but as in other books by Center, other aspects are deeply personal. Body positivity is a huge theme, along with loving oneself, and let‘s just say I struggle big time with it like Katie in the book. Yet, Center has this magical way of turning a phrase that makes me want to sit ⬇️⬇️

Librarybelle ⬆️⬆️ and think about it for awhile. The audio narration was excellent—I really enjoy listening to Center‘s books! Thanks to #NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced listening copy! 3w

KadaGul I truly enjoyed Hello Stranger 😍

Hello Stranger: A Novel

Librarybelle @KadaGul I learned so much about the condition the main character has in that book! 3w

69 likes2 stack adds3 comments

Murder, She Wrote: Three Strikes and You're Dead | Jessica Fletcher, Donald Bain

pick

Jessica is in Arizona cheering on the foster son of friends when murder happens. Of course it does—she attracts murder wherever she goes! The darker side of baseball is revealed, with sex, drugs, and gambling, not to mention prejudice and power purchased by wealth. Good escape reading. My April choice for #ThematicCozies

54 likes

The Secret of Chimneys | Agatha Christie

June‘s #ChristiesCapers is the first that features Superintendent Battle, who appears in a a few other books/stories. Discussion on June 29th!

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

janeycanuck, suvata, Aims42, MallenNC, Soscha, Cuilin, kspenmoll, BarbaraJean, PurpleyPumpkin, JenlovesJT47, Lizpixie, MariaW, elkeOriginal, AnneCecilie, Gissy, OutsmartYourShelf, mrp27, Larkken, Suet624, Cailey_Mac, Deblovestoread, ferskner, Marmie7, MaleficentBookDragon, majkia, Bookwormjillk, StayCurious, Teresereading, Laughterhp, Sace, RainyDayReading, Skygoddess1, Morr_Books, PathfinderNicole, dabbe, tdrosebud, MaGoose, kelli7990, TheAromaofBooks, Tineke, PageShifter, willaful, kimrenee, AnishaInkspill

Librarybelle @LitsyEvents 3w

dabbe I had no idea she had so many different detectives! Color me clueless! 🤣 3w

mrp27 @dabbe Same! I had no clue…. 3w

47 likes3 comments

Poirot Investigates: Hercule Poirot Investigates | Agatha Christie

It‘s time to discuss Poirot Investigates for #ChristiesCapers ! I have 5 questions posted as spoilers. They can be found by searching the book‘s feed, my feed, or the group‘s hashtags.

Our next read is The Secret of Chimneys, the first book to feature Inspector Battle. Official post tomorrow! #AgathaChristieClubR3

52 likes

Poirot Investigates: Hercule Poirot Investigates | Agatha Christie

This post contains spoilers

5. Consider this a free-for-all post! What are some elements you read that you wish to discuss with the group? #ChristiesCapers #AgathaChristieClubR3

dabbe Some elements of detective fiction I enjoyed: Poirot enjoys a dramatic final reveal, gathering suspects to expose the culprit. They're fun, but they literally come out of the blue. Some of these mysteries almost had the “locked-room“ puzzle elements, where the crime seems impossible at first glance and perhaps quite far-fetched. And, like Sherlock, Poirot occasionally lets a culprit escape punishment if their crime was morally justified. 3w

willaful I was a little irked by the character who was acquitted and couldn't be tried twice when he'd been arrested but had never gone to trial at all. I suppose the laws could be different wherever they were, but I think she made this same error in The Mysterious Affair at Styles. 3w

suvata @willaful I think you hit the nail on the head. It would be so awesome if some author would take up these cases and show the legal side of the trials after the arrests. I like legal thrillers too. (edited) 3w

willaful @suvata That would be interesting! 3w

mrp27 I enjoy read Christie but with modern day sensitivities I can‘t help but cringe with some of the racism, stereotypes and misogyny. 2w

14 likes5 comments

Poirot Investigates: Hercule Poirot Investigates | Agatha Christie

This post contains spoilers

4. Themes. The only overarching theme is Poirot himself. But, what are some thematic elements you found within these shorts?

For instance, spiritualism is mentioned and will play a role in later novels in a variety of forms, from the supernatural and witchcraft to seances and hauntings.

I think there was a mention too regarding Poirot's penchant for only helping the rich??? #ChristiesCapers #AgathaChristieClubR3

dabbe Like Doyle in some of his stories, Christie plays on the early 20th-century fascination with foreign settings (Egypt, jewels from the East, mysterious foreigners). Also like Doyle, some portrayals reflect stereotypes of the time and show racist and biased viewpoints--even with racially-charged ethnic words (e.g., Middle Eastern or Asian characters depicted as exotic or untrustworthy; the use of the word “chink“ ...). 3w

suvata I agree that spiritualism pops up quite a bit in her stories. It must‘ve been quite a fad in the 1920s. Also, a lot of her stories take place in a closed room situation. The ethnic bias is so obvious that I don‘t think these stories would be published in today‘s world without massive revisions. It‘s kind of sad because it‘s good to know how past generations thought of others. I have to remind myself that it was a much smaller world back then. 3w

willaful I guess it was natural enough at the time, when English people traveled so much, but I think it's interesting that Christie started out writing the “exotic locale“ stories and then her second husband was an archeologist who gave her a lot of fodder for future books. 3w

RainyDayReading I agree with everyone above. It‘s interesting how her stories reflect the ideas and attitudes of the time regarding “exotic” locations. Plus the attitudes and ideas regarding people from different cultures that would definitely not fly today but considering how often it appears in her stories I‘m guessing was fairly common for the time. 2w

mrp27 I like when she dabbles in the other worldly. Makes it fun and it‘s just the right amount of spooky for me. 2w

13 likes5 comments

Poirot Investigates: Hercule Poirot Investigates | Agatha Christie

This post contains spoilers

3. Good old Hastings! We experience the Poirot stories through Hastings's voice, and I could not but help think yet again about Watson and Holmes. Hasting shows parts admiration, frustration, anger, and kind of jealousy over Poirot and his methods.

We've talked about Hastings in the past...has your opinion of Hastings changed? What are your impressions of Hastings's character as seen in these shorts? #ChristiesCapers #AgathaChristieClubR3

dabbe I'd say that these early stories by Christie were an homage to Doyle's SH and Watson. I find Hastings even funnier than Watson, though, and I love his dissing of Poirot--especially when Poirot makes him feel like a moron, something Holmes was also good at with Watson. Hastings' inserted opinions just crack me up! And I now know that he never met an auburn-haired girl he didn't like. Wonder if he likes titian? He needs to meet Nancy Drew. 🤣 3w

suvata There is definitely a huge resemblance between Sherlock and Watson. Hastings' feelings are a blend of hero-worship, mild frustration, and genuine fondness, rooted in years of shared adventures and mutual trust. I don‘t think I appreciated Hastings in the first few stories as much as I did in this collection. Maybe it took a couple books for him to grow on me. (edited) 3w

kspenmoll I too enjoy when he disses on Poirot- & he is a sucker for beautiful ladies! 3w

RainyDayReading Didn‘t like him in the previous stories, still don‘t like him now 🤣 I think because even though he has spent, supposedly, a lot of time with Poirot, he still hasn‘t shown any growth in his deductive abilities. His constant leaping to conclusions without backing them up really annoys me. 2w

mrp27 I too like it when he disses Poirot and I find it funny that he always gets distracted by the pretty ladies. 2w

14 likes5 comments

Poirot Investigates: Hercule Poirot Investigates | Agatha Christie

This post contains spoilers

2. Think about the short stories in this collection. Any standouts? Favorites? Disappointments? We'll talk about Hastings next! #ChristiesCapers #AgathaChristieClubR3

MariaW I don‘t like the Davenheim and Cheap Flat stories that much because they seem very far-fetched to me. I liked the Million Dollar Bond Robbery and Kidnapped Prime Minister, they were just more exciting. 3w

willaful @MariaW I think I'm kind of the opposite, I prefer the more domestic stories to the world affairs ones. 3w

dabbe These stories all ran together in my head. The only thing that stood out for me was in pretty much every one of these, the ending came out of left field, making it impossible for the reader to even have a chance of solving the mystery. We don't stand a chance next to those “little gray cells“ of M. Poirot! 🤣 3w

See All 10 Comments

willaful @dabbe yes, she didn't really bother to try to be fair to the reader in the shorts. The novels are more satisfying that way -- you can't guess, but you feel like maybe you could! 😂 3w

suvata They were all very good, but I did have a few favorites that I mentioned in the first question. Christie is unique in that. I usually don‘t like short stories because they don‘t seem to have an ending that kind of wraps everything up but that‘s not true of Christie. They read like a full novel. They‘re like “bite-size Poirot“. 3w

Sace I liked the The Million Dollar Bond Robbery, but honestly none really stood out. The bond robbery is really the only one I can remember the details. 3w

willaful @Sace It held my attention more than most, though I was struck by how lucky it was that the maid left the room exactly twice! A lot of her plots rely on chance. 3w

kspenmoll I liked The Case of the Missing Will & The Million Dollar Bond Robbery 3w

RainyDayReading Even though I finished this a few days ago, I don‘t really remember any of the stories 😅 Weirdly I feel like I‘ve read the story regarding Egypt and the curse before but for the life of me I can‘t think of where I would‘ve read it from. The one involving the cheap flat kinda lost me a bit…and I remember liking the one with the pearl necklace…aside from that they didn‘t really stick. 2w

mrp27 The first story was my favorite, the curse of the diamonds. I agree I tend to like the more domestic stories over the adventure stories. 2w

14 likes1 stack add10 comments

Poirot Investigates: Hercule Poirot Investigates | Agatha Christie

This post contains spoilers

1. Welcome to our first short story collection by Christie! This first collection includes stories featuring Poirot, making this the 3rd Poirot book we've read.

Which do you prefer...the short stories or the novels (thinking specifically about the two other Poirot novels we have read so far)? #ChristiesCapers #AgathaChristieClubR3

Deblovestoread Definitely the novels. Short stories rarely work for me although these were ok. 3w

MariaW I prefer the novels as well, even though the short stories have been an easy read inbetween. I‘m always wondering how those short stories keep on being adapted into one and half hour long episodes for TV series. 🤔 3w

willaful I also prefer the novels. I dunno, I've read this several times before but it seems like no matter how many times I try, my eyes just glaze over and I don't absorb anything that's happening for most of them. 🤣 3w

See All 9 Comments

dabbe For me, it depends on how good the story is, whether it be a novel or short story. These stories were in the average range, IMHO, so I definitely would prefer a novel to these selections. But then, my favorite short story involving Poirot is “(TAo) The Christmas Pudding,“ and very few Poirot novels would beat that short story. Does that make sense? 🤔 3w

suvata I think I prefer the long form stories, but she does a really good job with short stories as well. In this collection, my favorites were The Adventure of the Cheap Flat and The Case of the Missing Will. The problem with short stories is that I probably won‘t remember them after a while. Novels seem to stick in my little gray cells much longer. 3w

Sace I‘m just jumping in this month. It‘s been a while since I read one of the Poirot novels so I don‘t think I have a strong preference. As far as these stories go, I‘m glad I‘m not the only one who was a little underwhelmed. Although that might have been partly because I went the audio route and I never quite appreciated the narrator. 3w

kspenmoll I think I prefer her longer stories. These were underwhelming, & seemed to be a vehicle for showcasing Cap. Hastings as rather a dope. Maybe that was her intention? 3w

RainyDayReading I‘m not usually a short stories person but I really enjoyed this! I think almost more than the longer stories at the moment and that‘s simply because of Hastings. I felt like he was much easier for me to stomach in these shorter bites than he‘s been in the previous books. If Hastings wasn‘t a factor I would definitely say the books. 2w

mrp27 I think I like her short stories better, less convoluted! 2w

17 likes9 comments

The Chelsea Girls | Fiona Davis

#LiteraryCrew : I apologize for the late post of this, but our June book is all about the Chelsea in NYC, the MacCarthy era, and friendship.

Discussion on June 30th. Read at your own pace throughout the month of June. I‘ll post periodic checkins during the month. All are welcome to join.

Let me know if you wish to be added or removed from the tag list! #BuddyRead

Librarybelle @LitsyEvents 3w

Deblovestoread Yay!! 3w

tpixie Yay!! 3w

mcctrish I‘m in, I can get the audio book from the library 3w

Sargar114 @mcctrish same! 2 week wait but first in line so should work out well! 3w

43 likes1 stack add5 comments

Poirot Investigates: Hercule Poirot Investigates | Agatha Christie

I‘ve really fallen behind on my hosting duties, but tomorrow (Sunday) is our next #ChristiesCapers discussion! The first short story collection we‘ll read by Christie, and the third book featuring Hercule Poirot!

Questions will be posted mid- to late-morning US East Coast time! #AgathaChristieClubR3

Bookwormjillk You know I started listening to this and bailed because I couldn‘t follow the story. But I also never realized it was short stories so maybe there was a reason 😬 3w

Aims42 I‘ll be sitting this one out, but please continue to tag me!! Too many books, not enough time 😵‍💫😵‍💫😵‍💫 3w

Librarybelle No worries, @Bookwormjillk @Aims42 ! 3w

suvata I‘m ready whenever you are 😀 3w

TheAromaofBooks I've been reading one a day for the last week or two and it's been so fun. I can't figure out if I've actually solved some of these mysteries or if my subconscious just remembers reading them before 😂 3w

46 likes5 comments

Untitled | Unknown

This week has been terrible between world/country news and personal news; hooray for joys:

1. My boys, pictured together in a much needed family cuddle
2. Betty Crocker‘s Reese‘s Peanut Butter Coffee Cake mix—so good in cupcake form!
3. IRL book club. Most of us didn‘t like the book and talked about cats instead
4. I made it to the next round for a potential WFH library-related full time job. 🤞
5. Rainbow outside my front door

#5JoysFriday

Luke-XVX I can smell the cakes from here! Haha 3w

Librarybelle @Luke-XVX 😂 3w

monalyisha Omg wfh *and* library-related?! What a dream! Fingers crossed for you! 3w

See All 14 Comments

Aims42 Fingers crossed on your WFH library-related job, that sounds amazing!! 😍🤩🤞🙏 3w

Librarybelle @monalyisha @Aims42 Thanks! I‘m hopeful, but also know it‘s highly competitive. 3w

dabbe 🤞+ 🩵💚🩵 3w

Mollyanna Best of luck on the job prospect and yay! to family cuddles. 3w

Librarybelle Thank you, @dabbe and @Mollyanna ! 3w

BarbaraJean Lovely joys--what a beautiful rainbow!! Good luck on the potential job! 3w

Librarybelle Thank you, @BarbaraJean ! 3w

MemoirsForMe Gotta love a book club meeting where you can share cat stories! 😻 3w

Librarybelle It was, @MemoirsForMe ! 3w

Reggie Good luck on #4!!! And love the cat family cuddle! 3w

Librarybelle Thank you, @Reggie ! 3w

54 likes14 comments

Untitled | Unknown

We just received word that Zeke does have small cell lymphoma. It‘s not a surprise, but sad all the same. Thankfully, it is treatable, with the possibility of remission with chemo and a good 2-3 years, as long as we can keep him in a good place.

You can tell he‘s in a happy place from the photo, and that‘s all I can ask for. It‘s hard to see him go through this, but now we have a diagnosis and can properly treat it. ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Librarybelle ⬆️⬆️⬆️ I share this update because so many of you have been supportive the last several months. My cats are all I have and not only are reading buddies but also just general sanity checks. Zeke has always been my protector and has always been there when I‘m unwell or so depressed I cannot move. It‘s hard to see him get through this, but we‘ll work to make sure he has the best life and is as pain free as possible. #CatsOfLitsy #Zeke 4w

Librarybelle Thank you for your support! ❤️ 4w

Ruthiella Hoping for the best possible outcome. ❤️ 4w

See All 46 Comments

Susanita Best wishes for sweet Zeke to have his best life with you. 4w

RaeLovesToRead Best Wishes, Zeke 💕 4w

Deblovestoread So glad you have an answer and a treatment plan. Sending love to you both. ❤️ 4w

Bookwormjillk My first kitty Louie had the same. It was very sad, but we were able to spend his last year feeding him all the rotisserie chicken he wanted and letting him destroy the Christmas tree as much as he wanted. We made some good memories with him, and I do think he enjoyed himself. Hang in there @librarybelle and best wishes to Zeke. I'll be thinking of you both. (edited) 4w

Librarybelle Thank you, @Ruthiella @Susanita @RaeLovesToRead @Deblovestoread ! ❤️ 4w

Librarybelle @Bookwormjillk Zeke will get whatever he wants, except chicken! I‘ve learned in the past couple of months how chicken does not do well for him anymore. Everyone talks of positive outcomes and managing care, so I‘m holding onto that and how Zeke is holding steady. Thank you! ❤️ 4w

JenReadsAlot ❤️ 4w

Librarybelle Thank you @JenReadsAlot ❤️ 4w

dabbe Zeke is looking at you in this pic with absolute adoration. How lucky he is to have you for his mama, as are all your boys. He knows he is living his best life and will continue to do so for a long time with his care in your hands. It's not easy caring for our babies who now have needs, but we wouldn't have it any other way, would we? Sending all the hearts I can to you, Zeke, and your other boys. 🖤🐾🐾🐾🐾🖤 4w

mrp27 Aww.. lots of love to you and Zeke. 4w

Librarybelle Thank you, @dabbe ! Between Zeke and Xander, they definitely have me on my toes. I hope the other two stay healthy, though their issues are more emotional than physical. Pet care is hard, as you know. ❤️ 4w

Librarybelle Thank you @mrp27 ❤️ 4w

Tamra It is always a relief to have definitive plan forward. 💙 4w

Librarybelle It is, @Tamra . Thank you ❤️ 4w

TheSpineView Hugs to you and Zeke! 💞💜🐾 4w

InkedBookworm13 ❤ 🐱 Wishing Zeke the best 4w

JessClark78 🖤🐾 4w

Librarybelle Thank you @TheSpineView @InkedBookworm13 @JessClark78 ❤️ 4w

rubyslippersreads Zeke couldn‘t ask for anyone better to give him the best care possible, and all the ❤️❤️❤️. 😽 4w

Librarybelle Thank you @rubyslippersreads ❤️ 4w

Mollyanna You can tell by the photo how much Zeke loves you and how he is in a good place with you near. I wish Zeke the best in his treatment. 🐾💕🐾 4w

Librarybelle Thank you @Mollyanna ❤️ 4w

MaureenMc Best wishes for you and Zeke 💗 4w

Bookwomble ❤️❤️‍🩹❤️ 4w

Librarybelle Thank you @MaureenMc @Bookwomble ❤️ 4w

shortsarahrose Aww! Zeke is so sweet! Glad that he has a diagnosis and you both have a plan moving forward. 4w

ShelleyBooksie Sorry to hear this news but glad to hear it's treatable and you will be able to enjoy more years with your sweet boy ♡ 4w

Librarybelle Thank you @shortsarahrose @ShelleyBooksie ❤️ 4w

CoverToCoverGirl Sending support to you and Zeke. 💗💗 4w

Librarybelle Thank you @CoverToCoverGirl ❤️ 4w

lauraisntwilder Sending good vibes for you and Zeke! ♥️ 4w

Librarybelle Thank you @lauraisntwilder ❤️ 4w

NatalieR Wishing you and Zeke all the best as you navigate his treatments. Being a pet parent is hard during times like this. Keep doing what you‘re doing and loving him as much as possible. ❤️‍🩹🐾 4w

janeycanuck I‘m sorry to hear this, that‘s really tough. It is so hard when our pets are sick and there‘s no way for them to understand what‘s going on. I‘m happy he has you on his side through this ❤️ 4w

Librarybelle Thank you @NatalieR @janeycanuck ❤️ 4w

youneverarrived ❤️❤️ 4w

Librarybelle Thank you @youneverarrived ❤️ 4w

DogMomIrene I‘m sorry that you and Zeke got such a tough diagnosis. Zeke‘s in great hands with you! Wishing you both the best❤️🐾 3w

Librarybelle Thank you @DogMomIrene ❤️ 3w

MemoirsForMe Keeping you and Zeke in my thoughts and prayers. Your boys are so lucky to have the best Mama. ❤️❤️❤️ 3w

Librarybelle Thank you @MemoirsForMe ❤️ 3w

quietjenn Sending lots of love to you and Zeke. 💜 3w

Librarybelle Thank you @quietjenn ❤️ 3w

62 likes46 comments

Marguerite by the Lake | Mary Dixie Carter

pick

I wasn‘t sure what to think at first about this one—it started off a little uneven, but as I progressed with this, I realized that maybe that was the intention. We hear the story from the perspective of Phoenix, who is the landscaper for Rosecliff. Something terrible happens to Marguerite, Rosecliff‘s owner, and Phoenix describes the events that transpire. I cannot say more without really spoiling it, but by the end, I just sat and ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Librarybelle ⬆️⬆️⬆️ and listened to the rest of the book. I‘m glad I stuck with it. It‘s a good psychological suspense that is a retelling of Rebecca. I could see some of the threads that connect it to Rebecca, but this one is its own story with its own unique twists. Unlikeable characters galore! 4w

59 likes1 comment

Summer at Tiffany | Marjorie Hart

pick

This light memoir captures Hart‘s experience in NYC and at Tiffany during the summer of 1945. Filled with humor and sentiment, Hart shares hilarious (and potentially embarrassing) episodes as well as her hopes and dreams and college worries. Just the right book to read, with its fluffiness and nostalgic tone. #SundayBuddyRead

TheBookHippie

kspenmoll Lovely review! 1mo

Librarybelle Thank you, @kspenmoll ! 1mo

65 likes1 stack add2 comments

Nancy Drew 20: The Clue in the Jewel Box | Carolyn Keene

We‘re up to number 20, #LittenDetectives ! Our next #NancyDrewBR features jewels and a lost prince. Will Nancy be able to decipher the clue in the jewel box? And, more importantly, will Nancy suffer more head knocks? Let‘s just hope there are no exploding oranges! 😂

Discussion on June 15th! All are welcome to join. Please let me know if you wish to be added to or removed from the tag list.

Librarybelle @LitsyEvents 1mo

BarkingMadRead 🤣🤣🤣 so many head knocks! 1mo

Ruthiella A lost prince! Sounds like a good one! 1mo

31 likes3 comments

Untitled | Unknown

#5JoysFriday

1. My boys…always. Recent pictures, and yes that‘s Sebastian sitting and washing in the water fountain bowl! 🙄
2. Xander‘s cardiology visit went well. His new meds are working! Progress has been made on additional issues found during his prior visit.
3. Organizing my thoughts for #14Books14Weeks
4. The latest Anthony Horowitz arrived!
5. Baking cranberry white chocolate chip muffins for my mom for Mother‘s Day

Aims42 So glad to hear the boys are doing well 😻 And YAY for the new Anthony Horowitz book arriving 🥳 1mo

Librarybelle Thanks, @Aims42 ! 1mo

Bookwormjillk Cat in the bowl is cracking me up. 1mo

See All 19 Comments

Aims42 @Bookwormjillk 😹 same! “If I fits, I sits” 1mo

JenReadsAlot That cat in the water dish 🤣 and I made white chocolate chip crasin cookies for mother's day! 1mo

ravenlee Hooray for good medical news! 1mo

Librarybelle Sebastian loves to sit in the clean fountain bowl! Drives me nuts! 😂 @Bookwormjillk @Aims42 @JenReadsAlot 1mo

Librarybelle @JenReadsAlot My mom loves those muffins, and thankfully I still had some cranberries in the freezer! 1mo

Librarybelle Thanks, @ravenlee ! 1mo

Ruthiella Cats are so weird! 😂 Any new surface! 1mo

kspenmoll So happy the kitties are thriving! They will sit in anything! Love it! Muffins sound delish. 1mo

dabbe 💙💚💙 1mo

Librarybelle @Ruthiella He is so silly! 1mo

Librarybelle Thanks, @kspenmoll ! Holding steady at the moment, which is the most I can ask for at this time! 1mo

Librarybelle @dabbe ❤️ 1mo

ShelleyBooksie So glad that Xanders cardio visit went well!!! 1mo

Librarybelle Thank you, @ShelleyBooksie ! 1mo

DebinHawaii Wonderful joys! 💛💛💛Those muffins look delicious & good to hear the boys are doing well. 🐾🖤🐾 1mo

Librarybelle Thank you, @DebinHawaii ! 1mo

53 likes19 comments

Untitled | Unknown

It‘s not a book stack picture, but it‘s my list for #14Books14Weeks ! Maybe this is the year I finally continue with both of these series…they‘ve been listed so many times for so many challenges, one of these days I‘ll get to them! 😂

My reading has been so spotty lately, and my attention span is rather limited, I‘m hoping Gamache and Brunetti are just what I need.

Liz_M

Liz_M A virtual stack is still a stack! I hope these provide the pleasant distraction you need! 1mo

KadaGul @Librarybelle The picture 🖼️ alone brings serenity and motivation to read 📖. Good Luck 🍀 1mo

Librarybelle Thanks, @Liz_M @KadaGul ! 1mo

Susanita I like to think Gamache and Brunetti would be friends in person. 1mo

Librarybelle Me too, @Susanita ! 1mo

46 likes5 comments

Nancy Drew 19: The Quest of the Missing Map | Carolyn Keene

It‘s time for our next #NancyDrewBR discussion, #LittenDetectives ! I have 5 questions posted. You can find them on my feed, the book‘s feed, or by searching the group‘s hashtag.

Our next caper is The Clue in the Jewel Box. More details tomorrow!

CogsOfEncouragement Thank you for hosting! It continues to be a blast for me to read this series and hear what other readers think. I appreciate your time in looking up differences in the rewrites, and the other info you pass along. ✌🏼❤️🔍📚 1mo

Librarybelle You‘re so welcome, @CogsOfEncouragement ! And thank you for participating!! ❤️ 1mo

Ruthiella Looking forward to it! 👍 1mo

42 likes3 comments

Nancy Drew 19: The Quest of the Missing Map | Carolyn Keene

This post contains spoilers

5. As for the other characters, we of course have Bess and George and their significant others trying to solve the mysteries. We're also introduced to the Smiths and Mrs. Chatham and Trixie. I was not a fan of Mrs. Chatham! Thoughs?

There's one point where Carson loses his normal calm composure when searching for Nancy! And, Hannah throwing the Browns off the correct map by disguising the coordinates! #NancyDrewBR

Bookwormjillk Go Hannah! I loved that part.

I was not a Mrs. Chatham fan either, and Trixie seemed like a bit much. 1mo

DGRachel I didn‘t like Mrs Chatham in the beginning. Her treatment of Trixie was abhorrent. I came to dislike her less towards the end though, when she quit being so horrid to everyone. I love when Carson acts more like a caring father and worries about Nancy! Isn‘t this the one where Ned says something like “enough mysteries for a bit, pay attention to me”? I was like “girl, push him off the boat”. 🤣🤣 1mo

CogsOfEncouragement @Bookwormjillk @DGRachel Too bad the update for 1969 didn‘t portray “the widow‘s” grief better. She just came off as a really bad mom. I thought the time Trixie was missing because she saw a Sea Captain walking by and decided to join him was maybe the most far-fetched element in this one. lol They all acted like of course a sea captain was taking a little stroll right here. And I was feeling Ned saved ND a little too much maybe. ⬇️ 1mo

See All 16 Comments

CogsOfEncouragement For the purpose of this girl power series I prefer they keep Ned as a supporting character and ND ultimately saves herself. George or Bess can save her, of course. He seemed to get her out of her scrapes too consistently in this one, like she couldn‘t have done it (or survived for that matter) without him. That isn‘t what this series is about. 1mo

Bookwormjillk @CogsOfEncouragement 100% agree on Ned. 1mo

BarkingMadRead I was not a fan of Mrs C but Trixie was a hoot! Hannah was so stealthy, she‘s been hanging with Nancy for far too long 🤣 1mo

Ruthiella Poor Trixie! With a mother like Mrs. Chatham, she‘s gonna need a lot of therapy later in life. 😱 1mo

Librarybelle That‘s a good point, @CogsOfEncouragement ! Ned seemed to be there a bit too much. But yes, @DGRachel , Ned tells Nancy to pay more attention to him. I had to roll my eyes at that. If he has that much of a problem with Nancy solving mysteries, then maybe he needs to go elsewhere. And Nancy, find a different guy!!😂 @Bookwormjillk @BarkingMadRead @Ruthiella 1mo

DebinHawaii Yes, Ned was too needy in this one! 🙄 1mo

dabbe @bookwormjillk @CogsofEncouragement @BarkingMadRead @Ruthiella @DebinHawaii @Librarybelle @DGRachel
Sorry I'm late to the party; I got behind! My favorite part proving Mrs. C was NOT the best mom (unlike Mrs. C from HAPPY DAYS): When she gets the ransom note and says, “I don't want to pay the money ... but what will happen to Trixie if I refuse?“ Sounds like the mom was really considering it! 🤔🧐🤣 4w

CogsOfEncouragement @dabbe Oh my gosh. She was sooo bad! lol 4w

Bookwormjillk @dabbe she was doing a cost benefit analysis 🤣 4w

dabbe @CogsOfEncouragement 🤣😍🤣 4w

dabbe @Bookwormjillk 🤣😍🤣 4w

kwmg40 I too found Ned's comments eye-rolling. Also, it's nice that Carson shows concern for Nancy, but he generally seems to have complete faith in her abilities! 3w

MariaW I found both, Trixie and Mrs Chatham pretty annoying in the beginning, but both of them saved the day - one finding the captain and the other one financing the whole trip. (edited) 3w

15 likes16 comments

Nancy Drew 19: The Quest of the Missing Map | Carolyn Keene

This post contains spoilers