Tag Archives: book group books

The Monday Check-In ~ 4/28/2025

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My Monday tradition, including a look back and a look ahead — what I read last week, what new books came my way, and what books are keeping me busy right now. Plus a smattering of other stuff too.

Life.

Another really busy week and weekend. I did quite a bit of running around on Saturday, visiting a bookstore before running even more errands for exciting tasks like buying my husband a new tie! Kidding aside, it was actually pretty fun. And seeing this sign while walking to the bookstore made me smile:

Once again, I didn’t have nearly enough time for reading this past week, and had to skip my weekend beach walks… here’s hoping I can do better in the coming week.

What did I read during the last week?

The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien: What a treat! I’m so glad I had a book group commitment to push me to read this book again. It’s so delightful, and I had a great time bouncing between a few different editions and checking out the various illustrations. Also, it was lovely being reminded of how many great passages there are in this book; for example:

It does not do to leave a live dragon out of your calculations, if you live near him.

My audiobook of the week:

Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez: Good entertainment, but not stellar. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

I finally caught up on Yellowjackets! I finished all of season 3… which left me with a lot of thoughts and reactions, and plenty of frustration that we now have to wait for a new season.

I also caught up on the last few episodes of Dark Winds. If you haven’t tried this show, you’re missing out! It’s excellent.

I even found time to try something new: Etoile, the new Prime Video series from Amy Sherman-Palladino. I’ve only seen one episode (of the eight available), but I liked it! Here’s a look at the trailer:

Fresh Catch:

Saturday was independent bookstore day, so I just had to stop by my favorite bookshop and show some support! Here’s what I came home with — one book I’ve read already, three new-to-me books… and a cute sticker to show I’d been there:

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Vanishing World by Sayaka Murata: Oh, this book is weird! But intriguing too — and it’s short, so I should wrap it up quickly.

Now playing via audiobook:

All the Lonely People by Mike Gayle: This audiobook is giving me A Man Called Ove vibes, and I’m loving it!

Ongoing reads:

My book group’s classic read is Mansfield Park by Jane Austen. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 82%. Up next: Chapters 40 and 41.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

boy1

The Monday Check-In ~ 4/21/2025

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My Monday tradition, including a look back and a look ahead — what I read last week, what new books came my way, and what books are keeping me busy right now. Plus a smattering of other stuff too.

Life.

Ooh, I’ve been busy! But besides work craziness, it’s been a good sort of busy. We had family in town over the weekend, and had a terrific dinner with the big expanded group. On Saturday, I spent about four hours at a folkdance festival, and had a blast! My legs were feeling it later, but it was worth it.

What did I read during the last week?

Vera Wong’s Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man) by Jesse Q. Sutanto: Loved it! I recommend starting with the first Vera Wong book, but you really can’t go wrong with either. My review is here.

Swept Away by Beth O’Leary: Survival while lost at sea may not be the obvious choice for a romance, but in this case, it works! My review is here.

I borrowed a new Passover-themed graphic novel from the library:

One Little Goat by Dara Horn and Theo Ellsworth: This is a fun read, and I could see it being a good choice for middle grade readers, especially prior to Passover as prep for sitting through a seder. But, the art style didn’t really appeal to me; the black and white illustrations made it hard to read the text, and I was glad to be done by the time I reached the end.

I suppose I should also mention the book I DNFd this week:

City of All Seasons by Oliver K. Langmead and Aliya Whitely: The premise seemed promising, but I only stuck with it until about 25% before realizing that I didn’t care enough to keep going. If you’ve read this and think I should give it another shot, let me know!

Pop culture & TV:

Remember when I said I had a busy week??? Well, that means that I barely watched any TV, which is fine — except I still haven’t gotten to the last few episodes of Yellowjackets, and I really do want to know how the season ends!

Fresh Catch:

I got this ARC in the mail this week! I’m pretty sure this was from a Little Free Library giveaway opportunity for LFL stewards. I didn’t really expect it, so opening the package was a nice surprise. I put it in my LFL on my way out to run errands, and by the time I got back two hours later, it was gone! It feels great to be able to add a hot new release every so often, so thank you to the publishers!

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien: My book group book for April! This is probably my 3rd or 4th reread, but I’m delighted to have a reason to revisit the story. My Kindle edition is very cool — it includes snippets of the author singing some of the dwarves’ songs and reading some passages. What a great experience!

Now playing via audiobook:

Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez: My hold request for this audiobook came in much sooner than I expected! I just started over the weekend, and I like it so far.

Ongoing reads:

My book group’s classic read is Mansfield Park by Jane Austen. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 78%. Up next: Chapters 38 and 39.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

boy1

The Monday Check-In ~ 4/14/2025

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My Monday tradition, including a look back and a look ahead — what I read last week, what new books came my way, and what books are keeping me busy right now. Plus a smattering of other stuff too.

Life.

The past few days have been a whirlwind, in the best possible way! We had a lovely Seder for the first night of Passover — good food, great company, lots of fun. My daughter and her fiancé came for the weekend, and we spent one day playing tourists, visiting parts of San Francisco that I haven’t been to in years. It was great to have the time together — I just wish we’d had even more!

What did I read during the last week?

Flirting Lessons by Jasmine Guillory: An okay, not great, romance set in Wine Country. My review is here.

Promise Me Sunshine by Cara Bastone: An engaging story about two people helping each other through grief and loss, and falling in love along the way. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

I really haven’t been watching much, and the weekend was just too busy to leave time for TV. So, I’m still working my way through season 3 of Yellowjackets! Beyond that, my son and I are really enjoying this season of The Amazing Race, and I’m tolerating Survivor.

Fresh Catch:

One new books this week! Looking forward to starting it…

(It’s prettier in person — the lighting for my photos wasn’t good, but it was the best I could do in the moment.)

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Vera Wong’s Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man) by Jesse Q. Sutanto: This book is a hoot! I ran out of time to read over the weekend, but I should be able to wrap this up in the next day or so.

Now playing via audiobook:

Swept Away by Beth O’Leary: I always enjoy this author’s books, although I’m not sure that the overall tone is really working for me on this one. I’m just past the halfway mark — looking forward to seeing where the story goes.

Ongoing reads:

My book group’s classic read is Mansfield Park by Jane Austen. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 74%. Up next: Chapters 36 and 37.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

boy1

The Monday Check-In ~ 4/7/2025

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My Monday tradition, including a look back and a look ahead — what I read last week, what new books came my way, and what books are keeping me busy right now. Plus a smattering of other stuff too.

Life.

Lots of errands, an intense workweek… not much new or different to report! But, the sun shone over the weekend, I got in some lovely outdoor time, and reorganized a couple of my bookshelves. Not bad at all!

Meanwhile, looking ahead this week, I’ll be doing some prep for our family Seder — hard to believe Passover is already almost here. Can’t wait to spend time with family on one of our favorite holidays!

What did I read during the last week?

When the Moon Hits Your Eye by John Scalzi: This book is amazing! It has the most ridiculous premise in recent book history… and yet, it totally works. What a delight — my review is here.

Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins: I was a little unsure about how interested I’d be to read another Hunger Games prequel, but I’m so glad I went for it! An absolutely compelling read. My review is here.

The Sirens by Emilia Hart: Gorgeous, haunting story of sisters and secrets. A must-read! My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

I decided to go back to Yellowjackets, and started season 3. I’ve only seen two episodes so far, but they’ve been good!

Fresh Catch:

This book is stunning! I knew I needed a copy of my own, and I’m just in love with its painted edges.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Flirting Lessons by Jasmine Guillory: Something a little lighter, after a few intense (but excellent) other books. I’ve enjoyed this author’s previous books, and I’m looking forward to a romantic diversion!

Now playing via audiobook:

Promise Me Sunshine by Cara Bastone: This may look like a romance, but it’s actually a sensitive, lovely portrayal of life after loss. And yes, there’s a love story too! I’m about a day or two away from finishing.

Ongoing reads:

My book group’s classic read is Mansfield Park by Jane Austen. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 69%. Up next: Chapters 34 and 35.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

boy1

The Monday Check-In ~ 3/31/2025

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My Monday tradition, including a look back and a look ahead — what I read last week, what new books came my way, and what books are keeping me busy right now. Plus a smattering of other stuff too.

Life.

The sun came out over the weekend. Sure, it rained on Sunday, but Saturday was pretty glorious, and I took full advantage. Long walk, dancing in the park, and even a bit of reading on my back porch. Bliss!

And just because…

I happened to walk by while the kitty was enjoying a snooze with his favorite toy. Who can resist such cuteness?

Author news.

I was sad to learn of the passing of L. J. Smith this week. I didn’t necessarily love the Vampire Diaries books (I read the first two or three), but the TV adaptation was (for at least a few seasons) amazing. I had no idea about her author journey until I read her obit.

What did I read during the last week?

Dracula by Bram Stoker: The full-cast audiobook version was amazing! I’m so glad this book came up for me as my most recent Classics Club Spin. My review is here.

The Martian Contingency (Lady Astronaut, #4) by Mary Robinette Kowal: After struggling a bit to remember where the story left off in previous books, I ended up really enjoying this one. What an amazing series! My review is here.

The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon: My book club book for March! I just barely squeezed it in before the the end of the month… but I’m so glad I did. Phenomenal read. My review is here.

Just for fun, I also checked out a children’s book by Mary Robinette Kowal:

Molly on the Moon is a sweet, gentle picture book — and if I had young kids in my house, I think I’d want a copy of my own to enjoy with them.

Pop culture & TV:

Is anyone watching the current season of Survivor? Last week’s episode had a huge emotional moment that’s gotten a ton of press. In the immediate aftermath, the player at the center of it has seen a tremendous outpouring of support, including in-game support from other players — but I wonder how long the warmth and good feelings will last in the game, and whether this player will now become one of the biggest targets. Being vague here… but at some point, I’d guess other players will realize that if they sit next to her at the end, they’ll lose.

Fresh Catch:

I ordered signed copies of two recent books that I loved (sadly, the authors’ book tours didn’t bring them to my area) — and both arrived this week!

My signed copy of The Martian Contingency came with a sticker, a flightsuit-appropriate patch, and a poster of the Mars habitat. Super cool.

I’m also thrilled with my signed edition of The Jackal’s Mistress — a fantastic book by a favorite author. (If you missed my review, check it out here!)

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins: It’s time to dive back in to the world of The Hunger Games! Just getting started…

Now playing via audiobook:

When the Moon Hits Your Eye by John Scalzi: I’m *this close* to finishing, and I’m loving every minute! This author’s books are always amazing, and with Wil Wheaton as the audiobook narrator, it’s a listening treat.

Ongoing reads:

My book group’s classic read is Mansfield Park by Jane Austen. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 64%. Up next: Chapters 32 and 33.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

boy1

Book Review: The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon

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Title: The Frozen River
Author: Ariel Lawhon
Publisher: Doubleday
Publication date: December 5, 2023
Length: 432 pages
Genre: Historical fiction
Source: Purchased
Rating:

Rating: 5 out of 5.

A gripping historical mystery inspired by the life and diary of Martha Ballard, a renowned 18th-century midwife who defied the legal system and wrote herself into American history.

Maine, 1789: When the Kennebec River freezes, entombing a man in the ice, Martha Ballard is summoned to examine the body and determine cause of death. As a midwife and healer, she is privy to much of what goes on behind closed doors in Hallowell. Her diary is a record of every birth and death, crime and debacle that unfolds in the close-knit community. Months earlier, Martha documented the details of an alleged rape committed by two of the town’s most respected gentlemen—one of whom has now been found dead in the ice. But when a local physician undermines her conclusion, declaring the death to be an accident, Martha is forced to investigate the shocking murder on her own.

Over the course of one winter, as the trial nears, and whispers and prejudices mount, Martha doggedly pursues the truth. Her diary soon lands at the center of the scandal, implicating those she loves, and compelling Martha to decide where her own loyalties lie.

Clever, layered, and subversive, Ariel Lawhon’s newest offering introduces an unsung heroine who refused to accept anything less than justice at a time when women were considered best seen and not heard. The Frozen River is a thrilling, tense, and tender story about a remarkable woman who left an unparalleled legacy yet remains nearly forgotten to this day.

Once again, I need to give a big shout-out to my book group, for giving me the motivation to read The Frozen River — a book that’s been on my TBR for over a year! I’m so glad to have finally read it. The Frozen River is a captivating look at a historical figure who led a remarkable life, but who seems to not be widely known or remembered.

The Frozen River is a fictionalized version of Martha Ballard’s life, drawn from her meticulously kept diaries but also liberally embellished by the author, as she explains in the notes at the end. For purposes of clarity, let me stipulate that when I refer to Martha from here on out, I’m talking about her as depicted in this novel.

Martha is the town midwife of Hallowell, Maine. She’s 54 years old, married to a lovely man, Ephraim, who runs a local lumber mill, and mother of nine children, six of whom are still living. She’s delivered hundreds of babies over the years, and has never lost a mother. She comes when calls, and is a trusted medical professional — at least among the women of the area. When an arrogant but inexperienced Harvard-educated doctor comes to town, some of the Martha’s patients (or really, their husbands) choose his services instead, with disastrous results.

One of Martha’s responsibilities is to question unwed women — in the middle of labor!! — to ascertain the name of the baby’s father, and then testify about it in court. Yes, really. (It’s believed that a laboring woman is more likely to tell the truth in the middle of all the pain…) Her role is clear, but as the book shows, when she steps out of line or questions the powerful men of the town, she’s dismissed or undermined.

As the story opens, a body is found under the ice of the frozen Kennebec River. Martha is called to examine the body and determine cause of death, which is clear to her experienced eyes: He’s been badly beaten and then hanged, and his dead body was tossed into the river. The man is identified as one of two men recently accused of violently raping the pastor’s wife. Between the murder investigation and the rape trial, at which Martha is a lead witness supporting the woman bringing charges, Martha’s credibility and expertise are constantly being challenged and called into question.

Beyond the mystery of the dead man and the drama of the rape case, The Frozen River is a powerful story of a strong, professional woman who refuses to back down, and who serves the women of her community whenever needed, even at risk to her own health and well-being. Martha’s home life is also lovely to see. She has a passionate, devoted relationship with her husband, and is an involved, caring mother to her children.

Memory is a wicked thing that warps and twists. But paper and ink receive the truth without emotion, and they read it back without partiality. That, I believe, is why so few women are taught to read and write. God only knows what they would do with the power of pen and ink at their disposal.

Martha’s journal entries are interspersed throughout the novel, giving us a view into her daily life. Her understated record of her days hide the drama that each entails, whether a breech birth or a contentious day in court or the worries of a mother whose sons may have secrets.

The writing in The Frozen River is lovely, giving a vivid sense of day-to-day life in late 18th century Maine. The harsh winter, the frozen river, the external elements that make the environment a challenge — all are in contrast to the warm interiors of Martha’s home, the tavern that’s a community gathering spot, and the various homes to which Martha is called to care for the women who need her.

As for the connected dramatic plotlines surrounding the rape case and the murdered man, these are presented masterfully, with building tension and suspense. Hints and new clues are dispensed slowly throughout the book; the picture emerges in bits and pieces, and it’s a sign of the author’s skill that the full story doesn’t truly become clear until the very end.

I was completely wrapped up in The Frozen River from start to finish. Martha is a wonderful main character, and I felt connected to her immediately. The characters, setting, and plotlines all come together to make this a compelling and unforgettable read. Highly recommended.

The Frozen River is my first book by Ariel Lawhon, but it won’t be my last. I’m thinking of trying I Was Anastasia next — if you’ve read it, let me know your thoughts!

To learn more about the real Martha Ballard:

Purchase links: Amazon – Bookshop.org
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The Monday Check-In ~ 3/24/2025

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My Monday tradition, including a look back and a look ahead — what I read last week, what new books came my way, and what books are keeping me busy right now. Plus a smattering of other stuff too.

Life.

My husband and I enjoyed a lovely dinner at a favorite restaurant for his birthday over the weekend! (I love when restaurants make the birthday dessert so pretty and festive!)

In case you’re wondering, that’s a house-made frozen Snickers bonbon! Yummmmm.

What did I read during the last week?

Not very much!!

I guess I just really didn’t have enough time for books this week! I managed to finish just one:

The Third Rule of Time Travel by Philip Fracassi: Interesting concepts, hard to put down, but the plot doesn’t entirely hold together. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

More of the same — I’m watching the new weekly episodes of 1923, Survivor, and The Amazing Race, plus the excellent Dark Winds. I’m excited to check out the new Wolf Hall season too!

I do feel like I could use a good streaming series to binge, but haven’t felt motivated to start anything just yet. Any recommendations?

Fresh Catch:

Two new hardcovers this week! I’m excited for both… although I may hold off until I can borrow the e-books from the library, since I like to be able to read on the go as well as at home.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

The Martian Contingency (Lady Astronaut, #4) by Mary Robinette Kowal: The 4th and final book in a terrific series. Book #1, The Calculating Stars, is one of my all-time favorites. I’m struggling a bit to remember where things left off as of the earlier books in the series, and realize that perhaps I should have done a reread before starting this one. Oh well… at this point, I’m going to power through and trust that it’ll all come back to me before long!

Now playing via audiobook:

Dracula by Bram Stoker: I’m absolutely loving this audiobook! It’s over 15 hours, so this has been my second full week listening to it, but I should finish up today thanks to a long drive back and forth to a work event! Having the illustrated hardcover edition to refer back to has been amazing too.

Ongoing reads:

My book group’s classic read is Mansfield Park by Jane Austen. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 60%. Up next: Chapters 30 and 31.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

boy1

The Monday Check-In ~ 3/17/2025

Posted in The Monday Check-In by

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My Monday tradition, including a look back and a look ahead — what I read last week, what new books came my way, and what books are keeping me busy right now. Plus a smattering of other stuff too.

Life.

Awesome dancing over the weekend, which made me so happy!

Beyond that… locally, voters passed a proposition last fall to transform a roadway along the ocean into a park, and as of this past Friday, the road officially closed to cars. It was great to see crews out on Saturday removing traffic lights, and fantastic to see so many people enjoying the open space. Can’t wait to see how it all turns out!

What did I read during the last week?

The Love Lyric (Greene Sisters, #3) by Kristina Forest: Terrific conclusion to a heart-warming trilogy. My review is here.

The Jackal’s Mistress by Chris Bohjalian: Excellent, powerful historical fiction. My review is here.

The Tomb of Dragons (The Cemeteries of Amalo #3) by Katherine Addison: Complicated and detailed, this book is an excellent addition to the world of The Goblin Emperor, but is definitely not a good place to start. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

I’m still watching the new season of 1923, but it’s rough going. All creator Taylor Sheridan seems to want to do is torment his characters. It’s not fun… and feel like a waste of potential.

On the other hands, Dark Winds is back for its 3rd season, and it’s just as fantastic as the previous seasons. Seriously, if you haven’t tried this show yet, you’re missing out! Start with season 1, obviously.

Fresh Catch:

Although I already had the ARC for this book, I had to get a hardcover too! It’ll go nicely on my shelves with the other books from this series.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

The Third Rule of Time Travel by Philip Fracassi: Started late Sunday! So far, so good.

Now playing via audiobook:

Dracula by Bram Stoker: This unabridged, full-cast audiobook is amazing! It’s on the long side, but I think I’ll finish this week. I’m reading Dracula for my Classics Club spin, and I’m so happy this is the book that came up this time around. I’m also following along with my gorgeous hardcover edition. All in all, it’s a great experience!

Ongoing reads:

My book group’s classic read is Mansfield Park by Jane Austen. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 57%. Up next: Chapters 28 and 29.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

boy1

The Monday Check-In ~ 3/10/2025

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My Monday tradition, including a look back and a look ahead — what I read last week, what new books came my way, and what books are keeping me busy right now. Plus a smattering of other stuff too.

Life.

It was a really busy workweek, and I definitely needed distractions and fun in my actual (non-work) life. I got together for dinner with a friend I hadn’t seen since the fall (and we were both shocked to realize how much time had gone by). Note to self: Must do better about making plans rather than just texting “yes, let’s get together soon!”.

Little Free Library and Pango Books.

When I bought my Little Free Library last fall, I felt a bit of a twinge about how expensive it was, even though I’d been saving toward it for some time. So I made a deal with myself — I’d start listing books for sale at Pango Books, and see how much of the LFL cost I could offset that way.

Well, I don’t put a huge amount of effort into promoting my Pango account, so it’s been very slow and very occasional… but after about four months as a seller, I’ve now made it to 25% of the initial cost of the LFL.

I’m not taking any of this too seriously… but my numbers-focused brain likes to keep track, and felt oddly satisfied at hitting a milestone. Meanwhile, between Pango and the LFL, I’m paring down my physical shelves a bit and passing along some of the books that I’ve had for a while and don’t really need to keep. Win-win!

What did I read during the last week?

The Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwood: Terrific audiobook! My review is here.

Installment Immortality (Incryptids, #14) by Seanan McGuire: Proof that a good series can remain good a long, long time! My review is here.

Jane and Dan at the End of the World by Colleen Oakley: Fresh, funny heist story that’s really about marriage, love, and parenthood. Terrific read! My review is here.

Murder by Memory by Olivia Waite: A short, sharp novella about a murder on a spaceship. Lots of fun, and very clever. My review is here.

I also ended up listening to a new Audible Original short story:

I usually really enjoy everything by Abby Jimenez, but The Fall Risk was just okay. Maybe it’s the length, but the love story elements felt really rushed, and meanwhile, it’s much darker overall than you’d expect based on the cover.

Pop culture & TV:

The Amazing Race is back! It’s so much fun. Also in the category of hanging out on my couch in front of the TV… I watched a rom-com on Prime Video that I thought I’d enjoy — but it just was not good. Sigh. (In case you’re curious, it was Picture This, and I watched it because someone I like a lot from Bridgerton is the lead character.)

On the other hand, my son and I went out to see Mickey 17 last night, and thought it was amazing. Seriously, terrific filmmaking and great performances. (I recommend not watching trailers, and just taking it all in as a fresh experience… but if you’re truly curious, here’s the link to the official trailer, which I think spoils some great moments in the movie.)

Fresh Catch:

Susanna Kearsley’s newest book just arrived! It’s a lovely paperback with decorated edges. I may wait a bit to read it, since it’s one of my book group’s picks for later in the year… we’ll see if I can resist the temptation to start sooner.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

The Jackal’s Mistress by Chris Bohjalian: Historical fiction set during the Civil War. I’m just past the halfway mark, and it’s excellent so far.

Now playing via audiobook:

The Love Lyric (Greene Sisters, #3) by Kristina Forest: The 3rd book in a trilogy that I’ve really enjoyed. I should finish up in the next day or so.

Ongoing reads:

I have two longer-term reading projects at the moment:

  • My book group’s classic read is Mansfield Park by Jane Austen. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 52%. Up next: Chapters 26 and 27.
  • Dracula: My Classics Club spin book! Progress: 0%. That’s right — I completely failed to even start this book during the past week, despite my good intentions. I’ll leave it here for now, and see if I can do better in the week to come.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

boy1

The Monday Check-In ~ 3/3/2025

Posted in The Monday Check-In by

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My Monday tradition, including a look back and a look ahead — what I read last week, what new books came my way, and what books are keeping me busy right now. Plus a smattering of other stuff too.

Life.

A good friend of ours just became a grandparent, and we went to a lovely little gathering to meet the new baby (who is absolutely adorable, of course).

Other than that, it’s been a busy workweek, but I’ve been able to squeeze in a decent amount of outdoor time and dancing. Not enough reading, alas… it was difficult to find time to just sit and pick up a book.

And of course, must include the weekly kitty photo. This is the “why are you bothering me while I’m napping?” face.

Blogging.

I thought I’d share a problem I had with WordPress this week, and the solution! This may have been a “me” problem… but in case anyone else has been in this situation, here’s how I panicked and then found a fix.

I usually work on my blog from my home desktop, but found myself with some downtime while I had my laptop handy, so I finished up a book review that I’d been working on earlier, then saved the draft. When I got back to my desktop, I went to proofread it — and maybe it’s because I’d had the previous draft open there too, but when I went back into the document, my changes were gone. Essentially, I’d lost everything I’d written after the first paragraph. Panic mode!

Fortunately, once the panic subsided, I realize that I could click the Revisions menu option, and then restore from a previous version. It worked! My changes were restored, my book review was saved, and I was able to publish the post.

In case you ever find yourself in this situation, here’s how to use the revisions feature.

What did I read during the last week?

Kills Well with Others (Killer of a Certain Age, #2) by Deanna Raybourn: Loved this follow-up book about women assassins “of a certain age”! Highly recommended. My review is here.

The Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwood: Finished on Sunday, and will share a review as soon as I have a chance. Really enjoyable, and a great listen!

Pop culture & TV:

I’ve started the new season of 1923 — it’s good so far! And more out of habit than anything else, I started the new Survivor season as well… which really is just like all the previous seasons, more or less. Ho hum… and yet, I keep watching.

Fresh Catch:

I tend to read each new volume in the Incryptids and October Daye series (both by Seanan McGuire) via Kindle (or ARC) as soon as they come out, then buy the mass market paperback editions whenever they become available. I realized this week that I’d forgotten to get a few of the paperbacks… and now I have!

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Installment Immortality (Incryptids, #14) by Seanan McGuire: Speaking of Seanan McGuire and Incryptids… this is the newest in the series, releasing next week. I honestly thought I’d have time to polish it off over the weekend, but life had other plans for me. Should be able to wrap it up in another day or two.

Now playing via audiobook:

The Fall Risk by Abby Jimenez: I just started this audio short — it’s only 2 hours, so I should fly through it. Anything new from Abby Jimenez is always a treat!

Since that one is so short, I should be done today or tomorrow, and already have my next listen lined up:

Promise Me Sunshine by Cara Bastone: I listened to another book by this author (Ready or Not) just a few weeks ago, and loved it, so I’m very eager to start her new release. (And how gorgeous is that cover?)

Ongoing reads:

I have two longer-term reading projects at the moment:

  • My book group’s classic read is Mansfield Park by Jane Austen. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 47%. Up next: Chapters 24 and 25.
  • Dracula: My Classics Club spin book! I’m planning to take a slow approach and read just a bit each day, while also enjoying this beautiful edition with illustrations by Edward Gorey. No progress yet! I’m starting this week.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

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