Storeetllr (Mary) Returns to the 75ers in the middle of the year

Hi, I'm Mary from the Lower Hudson Valley in New York.

I've been hanging out at the Green Dragon, which does not allow political (or religious) discussions, but so much is going on these days, what with the SCROTUS decisions and the J6 hearings, that it's almost impossible to keep politics out of my thread. So, to avoid upsetting anyone there, I've decided to return to the 75ers group mid-year. I hope that is okay. I won't repost anything (or not much, anyway) of what I posted over there, except for my books read and maybe a recent picture or two.

Books Read

(Jan-March books read are here.)

April

23. A Comedy of Terrors by Lindsey Davis. 4 stars. Audio. Latest Flavia Albia mystery and really enjoyable, not only for a glimpse into Saturnalia festivities held in Rome but for the appearances of Helena Justina and Falco. This was less a murder mystery than a look at organized crime in Rome during the rein of Domitian.

24. The Silver Pigs, a BBC Drama by Lindsey Davis. 4 stars. Audio. I enjoyed this and I only wish the audio editing had been more even. I may still reread the novel, but this audio dramatization was a lot of fun.

25. Doc by Mary Doria Russell. 5 stars. Audio. Reread/listen. Yes, it is just as wonderful the second (third? fourth?) time around as the first. But in a slightly different way, this time. I had thought there was more Doc Holliday and less history. Not so. There is plenty of Doc but much more history than I remembered. Not a bad thing, just different. If you enjoyed Lonesome Dove, I can pretty much guarantee you'll love Doc.

26. Kaiju Preservation Society by John Scalzi. 4.5 stars. Kindle. What a fun scifi novel(la)! (It's short - only took me about 5 hours to finish it.) Just what I needed to uplift my spirits in the midst of the cleanup from The Great Flooded Carpet Incident of 2022. I know Scalzi isn't for everyone, and not every Scalzi is for every Scalzi fan, but this one is a standalone that I think everyone would enjoy. Really. No, it's not great literature with deep meaning and lots of literary references that makes you think deep thoughts, but that's what Russian literature is for. This is a well-written palate cleanser to read between heavier tomes. (I'd have given it 5 stars, except it's not, you know, great literature. I might change my mind.)

27. Shadows in Bronze by Lindsey Davis. 4.5 stars. Audio. Re-listen. I haven't read/listened to a Falco mystery for at least 10 years, and it was so lovely to return to his world and the characters that inhabit it. In this one, Falco's working for Vespasian at the palace, together with the spy Anacrites. He makes a discovery that could rock the Flavian empire but is forbidden by Titus (Vespasian's eldest son) from letting it be known. Only a fool would cross the imperial family, and Falco's no fool, except maybe for one very special senator's daughter, who's caught up in the whole mess by way of her nasty murderous ex-husband, who himself has been killed. Or has he? The action moves from Rome to the Amalfi Coast a few years before the big blow out of Vesuvius and back again. I wish the BBC had made a serial of this, as they did with I, Claudius. It would have been wonderful.

28. Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie. 3 stars. Audio. I read the paperback a million years ago (when my eyesight was decent) but forgot most of it (except whodunnit) so it was relatively fresh. I think in part because of the reader (David Suchet) drove me crazy with his female characters' voices (most of them shrill, unpleasant, overly melodramatic) and in part because of the racist / misogynist attitudes portrayed, I didn't enjoy it as much this time around. One other thing I noticed was that Egypt and the Nile weren't really an integral part of the story. I mean, it could have been titled Death on the Thames or Death on the Mississippi for all the setting figured. And the way the investigation was conducted! Yikes! I know it was set in the mid-1930s, but it's hard to fathom any crime being solved if the detectives were that slipshod, because, really, how many detectives were as smart as Poirot? Anyway, I enjoyed it to a degree but probably won't be rereading any more Christie (or Allingham or Marsh or Crispin or Sayers or any of the Golden Age of Mysteries authors).

29. Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel. 4.5 stars. Audio. (I almost gave this 5 stars, but I took a half point off because the audio was uneven.) I don't usually enjoy time travel novels as a rule, but this one is a definite exception. Aside from the writing, which is beautiful and includes many bits that made me stop the audio and go back to listen to it again, the story is complex, with multiple layers and seemingly unrelated events, but it all came together seamlessly. I confess, it was complex enough that I want to listen to it again (or read it as text) because I am sure I missed a lot. I enjoyed Station Eleven when I read it awhile ago, though not as much as this, and did not read The Glass Hotel - which I'm now going to read because apparently some of the characters in Sea are in Hotel.

30. Clean Sweep (Dramatized Adaptation) by Ilona Andrews. I read this scifi/fantasy novel and its sequels a few years ago and really enjoyed them, so I thought it would be fun to listen to this new audio production. It was. It really gave an extra dimension (no pun intended) to the characters and story. Dina is an Innkeeper, caretaker, protector, and defender of the Inn named Gertrude Hunt, which is located in a small Texas town. When something nasty starts killing her neighbors' pets, she feels she must get involved and stop the predation with help from her trusty broom and her Shih Tzu named Beast, plus Sean, her sexy new neighbor who is an ex-military werewolf, Arland, a dangerous but compelling vampire warlord from a far-distant world, and Lady Caledenia, a bloodthirsty psychopathic Galactic aristocrat who is Gertrude Hunt's only permanent resident. It's an interesting, humorous, and easy read.

31. Bruno, Chief of Police by Martin Walker. 3.5 stars. Audio. I enjoyed this story, set in a lovely small village in the middle of France, especially the parts where Bruno was talking about food and wine, and the characters were wonderful; well, some of them anyway. I wasn't as fond of the mystery (somehow WW2 stuff and racism of any kind turns me off) nor of the romance. I know - France. What else? But it wasn't too obnoxious so I was able to move past it. And I liked it enough to look for the next book in the series. Reccied by Joanne.

32. FALCO: The Complete BBC Radio Collection
by Lindsey Davis. 4.5 stars. This full-cast audio production was a lot of fun. It was adapted from the first five books in the series: The Silver Pigs, Shadows in Bronze, Venus in Copper, The Iron Hand of Mars, and Poseidon's Gold. The first part of the first book was a bit uneven as far as sound editing went, but they must have gotten it straightened out, because I didn't notice a problem after that.

33. Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad. 3 stars. Audio and Kindle. I have been wanting to read this novella for awhile, mostly because I couldn't believe it was either as great or as horrible as reviewers have named it. Also, it's a novella, so I figured it wouldn't take too long to read, even if I were among those who hated it. Well, turns out I didn't hate it; I merely found it distasteful. Even so, I was unable to stop reading/listening to it, like being unable to stop watching a slow-motion accident happening. I mean, yes, I get why some consider this an important piece of literature and why they consider it a classic. Even discounting the racism and misogyny as evidenced by the startlingly derogatory language, horrifying images of native Africans being abused, and treatment of the (unnamed) female characters (all of which, sadly enough, was par for the course back when it was written), I found it wanting - disjointed, inarticulate, and written too much like an H. Rider Haggard sensational novel for manly men. I also hated all the references to ivory hunting. It made me think of all the elephant poaching, and the poaching of other endangered species, just for the money that small bits of those animals bring. What I found redeeming about it was its obvious condemnation of imperialism and of the unfettered use of guns. Anyway, I'm glad I read it, because now I don't have to wonder about it anymore. Because it's so short, I may even reread it someday, just to see if what I got from it (and didn't get from it) holds, but probably not.

May

34. The Invisible Life of Addie Larue by V. E. Schwab (Audio), 4 stars. Cool concept. Good character growth. It's 17th century France, and spinster Addie (age 24) does not want to be married to a recent widower with a bunch of kids, so, on her wedding day, she makes a Faustian deal with - is it the Devil? A pagan god? Whatever. The Dark Lord - we'll call him Luke, since that's what she names him eventually - gives her what she asks for. Literally. Of course. In exchange for her soul. Novel skips around a bit from the 17th century and the centuries between to the present day, but it's not as annoying as some of that kind of thing is. Though there is some romance, it's not a romance novel so much as a novel about love, hate, and unintended consequences.

35. Sweep in Peace (Dramatized Adaptation) by Ilona Andrews. Audio. 4.5 stars. Book 2 in the Innkeeper Chronicles. So much fun! In this one, Dina's forced by circumstances to host a "peace" conference amongst three warring groups: the vamps, the horde, and the merchants. Can she and Gertrude Hunt keep the parties from slaughtering each other? Can she find a way to get them all to give peace a chance?

36. When She Dreams by Amanda Quick. 3 stars. Audio. Possibly it was the narrator, whose voice was annoying, but I wasn't blown away by this story. For one thing, it was all over the place; for another, the main characters left me - not cold, exactly, but certainly not fully invested. Sam Sage is a former cop turned P.I. Maggie is his first case. Seems her employer, a reclusive advice columnist who has gone on an extended cruise to the South Pacific, is being blackmailed. The case takes them to Burning Cove where a convention of Lucid Dreamers is being held.

37. The Great Influenza by John M. Barry (reccied by, I think, Richard). 3.5 stars. Audio. Again, perhaps, it's the narrator (Scott Brick, who is definitely not one of my favorites), but this story was also all over the place. I understand there were a lot of threads to the story, but they could have been presented in a more cohesive fashion. Also, it was too long: repetitive, with unimportant details drawn out and information that wasn't important to the subject matter brought in. For example, there were a lot of pages dedicated to one of the scientists who, in the end, didn't actually contribute much to discovering what, exactly, caused the disease and how to eradicate it. I was also pretty bummed that there was no clear end to the influenza outbreak. Perhaps that's the way it happened, but the writing could have been clearer about it. I did find the information about how the U.S. federal and local governments tried to downplay the pandemic almost until the worst of it was over, much like TFG did at the beginning of the Covid pandemic. I was also intrigued to learn that it could have been started in Nebraska, of all places, and should have petered out there, except for the perfect storm of WWI that caused it to spread all over the world. In conclusion, perhaps I should have read this in print, but I don't think my eyes would have made it.

38. The Lost Words Bookshop by Stephanie Butland. 4.5 stars. Audio. Against all odds, I really liked Loveday, the protagonist. I understood where she was coming from, why she was so introverted and seemingly anti-social. I liked that she saw herself pretty clearly, knew why she was doing the things she did, and under it all wishing she could change, even while she thought herself incapable of changing. I liked how she changed, slowly over the course of the book. I liked the supporting characters, especially the book shop owner Archie. I liked how the "mystery" of her past was slowly revealed over the course of the book, although I pretty much had it figured out early on. And, though I don't usually enjoy stories that include domestic violence, this was a wonderful if unexpected exception. I really liked the narrator. Her style - often choppy and uncertain - usually doesn't work for me, but this time it was perfect. And I cried at the end, which is increasingly unusual for me as I grow older.

39. Working for Bigfoot by Jim Butcher. 3.5 stars. Three short stories from the Dresden files about three times he worked for Bigfoot. Cute and fun.

40. The Dark Vineyard by Martin Walker. 4 stars. Audio. Second in the Bruno, Chief of Police series reccied by Joanne. I enjoyed this one more than the first, perhaps because I already knew the main characters and their world. I did suss out the main villain, though not how it all happened. How could I, not knowing much about wine making? Anyway, I think I'm hooked. Third one will be the final test as to whether I follow this series. I suspect I will, because Bruno is such a lovely man, the village is somewhere I would like to live, the food and wine is amazing, and the mystories (sic) are pretty interesting.

41. The Enchanted April by Elizabeth Von Armin. 4.5 stars. Audio. Reread, though I think I read it on the Kindle the first time. An almost perfect listen, but way too short. In fact, the ending seemed so abrupt I had to check to see if the audio version had been abridged. Somehow, I didn't remember the book, or the film adaptation, ending so suddenly. But what there was of it the story was wonderful!

42. When Blood Lies by C.S. Harris. 3 stars. Audio. I hated the reader - not Davina Porter, who's been doing these historical mysteries and very well but someone named Jenny Sterlin - and did not find the story or the mystery compelling, except for a few pages relatively far into the story that literally left me breathless. But the mystery made no sense, or not much sense, and, as I said, listening to the reader wasn't conducive to a pleasant experience.

I just spent a half hour mini-reviewing two books, and something happened with this damn laptop that disappeared all that I had written. I've run out of time and patience, so I'll just get down the titles and ratings and hope I have time and inclination to recreate my reviews later. (SO angry.)

43. Curious Toys by Elizabeth Hand. 4 stars. Audio. Recommended by Judy (DeltaQueen).

44. An Easy Death, Dramatized Adaptation by Charlaine Harris. 4.5 stars. Graphic Audio.

45. A Longer Fall, Dramatized Adaptation by Charlaine Harris. 4.5 stars. Graphic Audio.

June

46. One Fell Sweep, Dramatized Adaptation by Ilona Andrews. 4.5 stars. The Graphic Audio of Book 3 in the Innkeepers Chronicles continues to be wonderful. I read these books a few years ago and really enjoyed them, but these dramatized adaptations bring them to life brilliantly.

47. Race the Sands by Sarah Beth Durst. 4.5 stars. Audio. MONSTER RACING! (Need I say more? Oh, okay, then I will.) So, there's this world where, when people die, they are reincarnated. If they are good, decent people, they come back as fluffy bunnies and beautiful songbirds and the like. If they aren't so nice, they come back as dung beetles or slugs. If they are particularly enlightened, they return as a human being. Conversely, if they are evil, they return as deadly monsters. Kehoks might have the head of a crocodile and the body of a panther or be lion-like and covered with black metal scales, and their primary burning desire in life is to destroy and kill. They're cursed to reincarnate forever as kehoks - unless they win the final race and become champions. Three unlikely women - a frivolous aristrocrat, an ex-champion rider who is a failed trainer, and a desperate young runaway - together with a gifted young girl team up to win the big race with one unusual monster and save themselves and their country. Yes, it's fantasy, a glorious, multi-layered fantasy with great characters, good dialogue, wonderful world building, a rich social order, and - have I mentioned? - monsters! I would have liked a bit more in the way of explanation for some of the way of that world, but it wasn't necessary to enjoy the story, just for the contemplation of it after finishing. As one of the book blurbs summarizes it: it's National Velvet with monsters and a big helping of palace intrigue. NB: slightly reminiscent of The Scorpio Races, which I loved, in that there was monster racing in that book too. (reccied by @drop.everything.and.read - on IG)

48. Even Greater Mistakes: Stories by Charlie Jane Anders. 3.5 stars. Audio. It's a short story collection, so, as usual, some of the stories were more enjoyable/memorable than others. Turns out, some of them were things I'd already read before. I'd probably have enjoyed this collection more if the readers sounded less like they were reading YA romcoms. In other words, I think it would have been better read as text on my Kindle. Also, many of the stories felt unfinished somehow. Still, though Anders isn't an author whose work I search for, it was worth a read. (reccied by Richard)

49. The Grief of Stones by Katherine Addison. 4.5 stars. Audio. Escaped being a 5 star read only because either it ended on a cliffhanger or the ending was too sad for me to bear. (Actually, I was crying toward the end, in part from the sweetness of one of the scenes (Richard, you might actually like this, though I don't know if you like fantasies), and then it ended and I was still crying, but not because it was a sweet, happy ending. I don't know how I'm going to stand waiting for the next installment. There BETTER be a next installment. Oh, yes, and also because Maia didn't make even a cameo, though he was mentioned in passing. Anyway, this is the 2nd in the Thera Celehar series, set in the world of The Goblin Emperor, one of my top books of this year. In this one, Celehar has an apprentice Witness for the Dead, a mature widow who came to her gift suddenly when she touched the cheek of her dead husband. One of their cases involved nasty goings on at a home for foundlings, and involves a the headmistress, a disreputable photographer, and his vicious brother. Lots going on, and one somewhat unbelievable coincidence involving the Hill of Werewolves. I loved it.

50. First Man in Rome by Colleen McCullough. 4.5 stars. Unabridged audio. I read this centuries ago (well, back in the '90s) when it first came out and loved it then. I love it as much, if not more, now as an audiobook. What a lot of nomen cognomen to remember, not to mention the strange names of the barbarians and their tribes, but so worth it. The first in the series about the last days of the Roman Republic (shades of the U.S.!), it features Marius and Sulla, Julia (Marius' wife) and Aurelia (Julius Caesar's mother), and a cast of literally hundreds of secondary and tertiary characters, and tells the story of the beginning of the end of the republic. Can't wait until the unabridged audio of The Grass Crown (second in the series) comes out.

51. Street Smart: An Autumn Rain Mystery: Imprints by Teyla Branton. 4 stars. Kindle. Light and, yes, fun, this slightly paranormal mystery thriller has a touch of romance but no sex scenes. In this one, Autumn Rain is asked by a distraught biker to find his wife who disappeared from their home the night before while he was at work, leaving her cellphone, purse, and keys at home. Concurrently, Autumn's fiancé - homicide detective Shannon Martin - has what looks like a serial murder case on his hands, one going back at least 10 years and involving three women with local ties, one of which is to the biker whose wife has disappeared.

Books Read

July

52. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. 4.5 stars, tending toward 5 stars. Although I found the MC annoying at times, I loved how she grew over the course of the book. I also enjoyed the philosophical quotes (now I want to read Walden Pond) and physics-related theories - "or do I mean hypothesis? whatever" - scattered through the prose. It's very good writing, and the premise is fascinating. I've often thought about what I would do differently if I could go back to my youth, and I've come to the conclusion that really there's nothing I would do differently because, if I had done something differently, I wouldn't have ended up here, living with my daughter and her family and being a part of my grandkids' lives. Yes, there are parts of my life I don't like (living in a small, dark basement is one; living in NY rather than California or Colorado is another; not having more money to live on is yet another), but all-in-all, I'm happy to be here. The decisions I made over the years - the good, the bad, and the soul-wrenchingly terrible - resulted in where I am today. As for regrets, "I've had a few," but, again, changing one small thing would have ended me up in a completely different life, and I want to be here, exactly where I am. And it's what I do - or don't do - today that matters. Anyway, philosophical discussions aside, I really enjoyed the novel and will look for more by Haig.

53. The Fellowship of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. 3.5 stars. Audio (read by Andy Serkis, who played Gollum in the film adaptation). I've read/reread The Trilogy at least a dozen times over the years. After the films came out, I tried to listen to Fellowship but just could not get into it. I blamed it on having seen the film adaptation. When I saw that Serkis, who played Gollum in the films, had narrated a version, I thought I'd try again, and it worked for me! I did find his rendition of some of the characters annoying, but mostly I think he did a good job. There was so much I'd forgotten, especially after having watched the film so often, and I was glad to read the story in full, although I do understand why the omitted parts were left out of the films.

54. The Convenient Marriage by Georgette Heyer. 4 stars. Audio. I thought I'd read this before, but nope. New to me. It started out a little slowly, and much that goes on in the story is rather outlandish, but as it went on I enjoyed it more and more, and, although I wanted to shake Horatia more than once, by the end I really loved the characters, especially Lord Rule and Horatia, and even Horey's scapegrace brother Pelham and the blackguard Lethbridge.

55. The Two Towers by J.R.R. Tolkien. 4 stars. Audio. Either Serkis got better or I got used to his narration because I enjoyed his rendering of this book better than the first.

56. The Tale Teller by Anne Hillerman. 4 stars. Audio. I got aways into this before I realized I'd read it already, but I was invested in the story and so continued on with my reread. In this one, Leaphorn, who is recovering from being shot, is hired by a museum to track down some exhibits that were donated but never arrived. Meanwhile, Chee and Bernie are working to find a gang of thieves when Bernie almost literally stumbles on a body lying just off her running trail.

57. Star Gazer by Anne Hillerman. 3.5 stars. Audio. I think I started this awhile back but DNFd it because I couldn't get into it. I did better this time, but it isn't my favorite Leaphorn/Chee/Manuelito mystery. In this one, an old friend of Bernie's confesses to the murder of her ex, an astrophysicist, but won't talk about the why and the how it happened, and Bernie can't believe her friend did it, so she gets assigned to the investigation, which takes her to the VLA (Very Large Array) in New Mexico where the ex worked. Meanwhile, Leaphorn is avoiding making a commitment to fly to D.C. with his housemate, and Chee is acting chief while Captain Largo is out of town, and he is hating it.

58. The Hollow Places by T. Kingfisher. 4 stars. Audio. Other than an occasional moment when I sighed at something the MC did that made her TSTL, I enjoyed this Lovecraftian horror story about a strange and gruesome world behind a wall and the other-dimensional creatures that hunt there.

59. Return of the King by J.R.R. Tolkien. 4.5 stars. Audio. What a pleasure it's been to revisit LOtR after not having read it for 20 years. Although I really like the extended film adaptations, there was so much left out of them. On the other hand, though I love the books for the magic and majesty, some parts could definitely have been omitted or shortened without ruining the story. Reading the books brought all the wonder back to me and also confirmed me in my love of the film versions.

60. Heroic Hearts by Jim Butcher. Audio. Reading this collection of short stories by some of fantasy's best writers because it's due back at the library in a couple of days. So far, most of the stories are enjoyable and heartwarming (cozy fantasies). I really liked the one by Anne Bishop set in the world of The Others.

61. Upgrade by Blake Crouch. Audio. Not sure how I feel about this one. On the one hand, it's pretty intense, and the thesis is timely. Plus, it's my kinda dystopian doomsday scenario I love to read about. And I'm already interested in the science of genetics and how it has and will affect humanity. On the other hand, parts of it were almost too over-the-top. I never quite became immersed enough in the world or story that I forgot it was a story, and I didn't find the characters all that compelling. I also thought the main character had as much hubris as his mother and sister, except in the opposite cause (kind of like the reluctant hero who doesn't want anyone else to be a superman like he is). I did read it compulsively, though, finishing in three big gulps, so there's that. Bottom line: glad I read it, but it didn't top my enjoyment of Dark Matter. Thanks to Richard, whose review is much better than mine) for putting this one on my radar.

August

62. Because Internet by Gretchen McCulloch. 3.5 stars. Audio. I need to read this in book form because the audio was read by the author who talked a mile a minute. (I often speed up audiobooks to 1.25x normal but this could have been slowed to .75x; unfortunately, that wasn't possible so I had to keep it at normal speed, which was too fast.) I took a half star off for that reason. Also, a lot of the time was spent discussing symbols, which is hard to get the point of when you can't see them with your eyes. So I know I missed a lot. Otherwise, it's a really interesting look at how communication has changed since the internet became ubiquitous in today's world and the subtleties of methods of communication, such as using punctuation and emojis. I actually love the new way of communicating, and I liked what McCulloch said about being too hidebound about rules of grammar (which, she points out, were set by cis white imperialist males). (Hah!)

63. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. 4 stars. Audio. Not what I expected but really good, though I swear I cried through a lot of it and wanted to smack a couple of the characters for being so damn blindly resistant to good sense. Even so, it turned out better than expected too, in a bittersweet way.

64. Storm Echo by Nalini Singh. 4 stars. Audio. The continuing saga of the Trinity Accords, this time featuring psy Ivan Mercant (The Spider) and changling Soleil Bijou Garcia (a healer). We finally find out the identity of The Architect/Scarab Queen and of Ivan's father, and incidents from former novels are enlarged upon and clarified. A solid entry in the world of Psy-Changlings.

65. Sweep of the Blade by Ilona Andrews. 4 stars. Graphic Audio. Another "A Movie in Your Mind" adaptation of the fourth book in the Innkeeper Chronicles series. This one features Arland, Marshall of House Krahr and Maud, Dina's sister, and takes place mostly on Daesyn, home planet of House Krahr. Another wonderful graphic audio adaptation. Not as good as the first 2, but still quite engaging.

66. Arabella by Georgette Heyer. 4.5 stars. Audio. Reread. What a delight this historical romance is! Arabella is definitely a young woman of her time without ever coming across as a tiresome rigidly conforming miss. The hero, Robert Beaumaris, is the quintessential "genuinely good man hidden under the veneer of a bored sophisticate." The minor characters too are wonderful, from Beaumaris's scandalized valet to Lady Bridlington to Leaky Peg.

67. What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher. Audio. Take on The Fall of the House of Usher that I just couldn't really get into. I know I read Usher many, MANY years ago - probably half a century ago (and doesn't THAT make me feel old) - but I don't remember it so maybe if I had reread it prior to this it might have made it better. But maybe not. All the characters fell flat for me, and the way it drrraaaged out annoyed me enough to almost dnf it. Or maybe it was the narrator, whose choppy style of reading was maddening. Anyway, I will read more Kingfisher, because I liked The Hollow Places, and just hope this was a one-off.

68. Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr. 4.5 stars. Audio. Though a compelling read, this was really weird for about 3/4 of the way through, then all the threads began to come together, and it was, like, WOW! I was stunned by the twist in the story of the Argos. I admit, I didn't see it coming until it was already about to happen. I may be the last person to have read this, but, if anyone else out there hasn't yet done so, I highly recommend you do.

69. The Stand, uncut edition by Stephen King. 4.5 stars. Audio. Reread. I totally forgot to list this one when I finished it mid-month. Oh, well, that happens occasionally. It was, as always, a pleasure to read - well, to listen to, I suppose I should say to be more accurate, but yes, I've read (and reread) it in print and now as an audiobook. Dated, and just a tad cheesy, but classic King. (I still want to slap Frannie sometimes, but whatever, and has there ever been a character that encapsulates an entire subgroup of unpleasant people like Harold Lauder?)

Sept.

70. Desperation in Death by J. D. Robb. 4.5 stars. Audio. Well, this one should come with a trigger warning (child abuse, child abduction, sex trafficking of children and young women, child pornography). Perhaps it does, I didn't read anything about it before I actually read the book. In fact, notwithstanding the distasteful (at best) subject matter, it might be my favorite Eve Dallas book in the series. It's a 5-tissue read, for sure, with a lot of great dialogue and character interaction, and, of course, a very satisfying conclusion.

71. Soul Taken by Patricia Briggs. 4 stars. Audio. Latest installment of the Mercy Thompson urban fantasy series, and a really good one it is! I had to wait a day or so after finishing Desperation in Death to start it, because, although these are both strong, kick-ass women married to alpha predators (I know, it's hard to think of Roark as a predator, but beneath it all that's what he is), their personalities are very different, and so are the writing styles of the authors. Anyway, the story is set completely in the Tri-Cities area of Eastern Washington State. It begins with a strange visit by Marsilia, the Vampire Queen, who tells Mercy and Adam that they need to find Wulf, one of her vampires and the craziest, most vicious one of the bunch. Stefan is missing, and when they go to his house to look for him, they are attacked by a horrific form of fae that wounds Mercy in a particularly nasty way. I really liked that this one was set in the Tri-Cities and that there is less pack politics and more focus on relationships.

72. The Last White Man by Mohsin Hamid. 3.5 stars. Audio. Not sure what the point was, but it was well written snd had an interesting premise. It just didn’t hold my interest, tho I did finish it.

73. Sweetwater and the Witch by Jayne Castle. 3.5 stars. Audio. Light, easy psychic romantic mystery set in Illusion Town on Harmony. Ravenna Chastain’s a fire witch, and Ethan Sweetwater’s a really good engineer. Also a hunter. Together, they go up against a bunch of witch-hating fanatics and the latest Vortex nutball.

74. Did Ye Hear Mammy Died? by Seamas O'Reilly. 4.5 stars. Audio. Ok, I confess that I didn’t think I’d enjoy this memoir apparently about the death of some Irish kid’s mom, even tho a number of friends highly recommended it, but I was bored this afternoon and figured I’d give it a try. I could always quit and DNF it. OMG it’s so good! I laughed and cried all the way through the short memoir. The writing was excellent, filled with wonderful and fresh metaphors and turns of phrases. Now it’s highly recommended by me. (Thanks to Mark for recommending it, and also to Joanne who I think raved about it too.)

75. Naked in Death by JD Robb. Audio. 3.5 stars. Reread
76. Glory in Death by JD Robb. Audio. 3.5 stars. Reread.
77. Immortal in Death by JD Robb. Audio. 3 stars. Reread.

October

77. Sandman 3 by Neil Gaiman. 4 stars. Audio. Not my favorite volume. This one included stories that weren’t in the main arc of the Dreamlord’s story and only peripherally touched on him. One was the story of Orpheus, which was so poignant and sad I still feel depressed. Another was Morpheus and Delirium going in search of their lost brother Destruction. A number of other tertiary characters made appearances in stories, like Nuala’s brother and Lady Bast.

78. Sparrow Hill Road by Seanan McGuire. 4 stars. Audio. Reread. Loved this ghost story as much if not more the second time around. Rose Marshall aka the Phantom Prom Date, the Girl in the Green Satin Dress, and the Ghost of Sparrow Hill, is a hitchhiking ghost and psycopomp, guiding recently dead spirits of people killed on the road to where they belong in the afterlife. This tells of her life, death, and adventures in the afterlife in a series of connected vignettes. The next two books in the series are more linear. Highly recommended.

79. The Girl With All the Gifts by M. R. Carey. 5 stars. Audio. This is my 4th or 5th reread, and every time I read it again I love it more. I love how all the characters grow, how their interactions are so realistic (within the story’s world), and how natural the dialogue is. This has become one of my favorite Spooktober reads.

80. The Boy on the Bridge by M. R. Carey. 5 stars. Audio. What I wrote about Girl, goes for Boy, which is set in the same world and which takes place 20 years before the events in Girl, plus an epilogue that takes place I think 20 years after the events in Girl. Highly recommended.

81. A Death of No Importance by Mariah Fredericks 4 stars. Audio. Historical mystery set in NYC in 1910. Jane Prescott is a ladies maid to a nouveau riche family. When one of the daughters’ fiancé is murdered, and anarchists are suspected, she works to find the truth so her friend, an anarchist, isn’t blamed.

82. Archangel’s Resurrection by Nalini Singh. 3.5 stars. Audio. Not sure if it’s me and my reading slump or this particular book in the series, but the story of Alexander and Zanaya didn’t grab me like the Guild Hunter novels usually do. Perhaps part of that is the lack of human characters in the story, and very little of Elena. Part may be that I just didn’t feel a connection with Alex and Zani. The historical aspect and the tying up of some loose threads, the answers to some questions from past books, kept me reading, but this probably isn’t one I’ll reread.

83. A Night in the Lonesome October by Roger Zelazny. 5 stars. Reread. Ebook. What a delightfully fun book! I wonder, though, if Zelazny wrote it just to be able to end it with that punny nursery rhyme. Worth it.

Currently reading


Up Next

On the Pile (owned by me, so these get pushed to the end of the list by borrowed books)

Epitaph by Mary Doria Russell. Hardcover.
Hungry Hill by Daphne du Maurier. Hardcover.

On Hold/Wishlist

Want to Read

The Satanic Verses by Salman Rushdie. No, I haven't read any Rushdie before, and it's a damn shame it took the man being attacked for me to finally get around to it.
The Wasteland by Harper Jameson (RD)
The Forest People by Colin Turnbull. Kindle.
The Lark and the Wren by Mercedes Lackey. Kindle.
Trust by Herman Diaz. Audio.
Rambunctious Garden by Emma Marris. Kindle.
The Word Hord by Hans Videen. (I may not be able to read this as there isn't a MOBI version so I'd have to read it on the computer, which I hate. Really annoying.)
Racism, Not Race by Joseph L. Graves. Reccied by Richard
The Space Between Worlds by Micaiah Johnson. Audio. OK, this is a strange one. I was enjoying it, but for some reason when I put it down I just didn't feel like picking it back up, and I ran out of time. I'll try again another time.
The Girl in His Shadow by Audrey Blake. Audio. Ran out of time.
Dread Nation Justina Ireland. Audio. Not in the mood when I borrowed it from the library
The Plot to Seize the White House by Jules Archer. Kindle.
The Brothers Jetstream by Zig Zag Claybourne. Kindle.
Afro Puffs Are the Antennae of the Universe by Zig Zag Claybourne. Kindle.

DNF

The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix. Audio. Got a couple hours into it but it just kept getting stupider and stupider.
Ape House by Sara Gruen. Audio. Started out good, but then it started to fall apart. Finished 42% before DNFing.
Ring Shout by P. Djeli Clark. Audio. Didn't like the narrator, and just lost interest 62% of the way through. I'm in a bit of a reading slump.
The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman. Audio.
The Watchmaker of Filigree Street by Natasha Pulley. Audio.
Fairy Tale by Stephen King. Audio.
Hold Me Closer, Necromancer by Lish McBride. Audio.
The Kingdoms by Natasha Pulley. Audio. Got to 46% and just didn't feel like going back to it. I think mostly I didn't care for the characters, and the story, though based on an intriguing premise, was boring.
A Half-Built Garden by Ruthanna Emrys (Audio) A bit too preachy for my taste, and I dislike the main character, plus the narrator isn't great. Too bad, because it's a great premise and a trope I enjoy (first contact).
The Sacred Bridge by Anne Hillerman. Audio. The reader is awful, worse than Scott Brick, whom I dislike but who at least intends to read it the way he does, unlike this reader who stammers, hesitates, stumbles, changes speaking speed, has a squeaky voice, and reads in a monotone, so that not even different accents can differentiate the characters. I really don't know why they changed readers. The last one was much better. If I thought I'd read it on Kindle, I'd quit the audiobook and borrow the ebook; it's that bad. The story wasn't compelling enough to suffer further. I DNFd it at about 43% of the way through.
The Maiden of All Our Desires by Peter Manseau. Audio. Hated the narrator. Plus the story was boring. Perhaps the fault of the narrator.
Blinded by Teyla Branton. Kindle. Read a few chapters, then the MC did that TSTL thing where she escaped from her bodyguards and went to do something potentially dangerous on THE SAME DAY SHE HAD BEEN ABDUCTED AND ALMOST DIED IN A CAR CRASH AND EXPLOSION. FFS. I just can't.
The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams. Audio. Bored me, and I found myself thinking about something else instead of listening. I gave it a good shot - got about 1/3 of the way in. (or, as Murderbot might say, "Too many words, and I don't care.")
Astroquizzical by Jillian Scudder. Kindle. Ran out of time.
Nightwork by Nora Roberts. Audio. Didn't enjoy it (!) - first Nora Roberts I ever felt that way about.
How Fascism Works by Jason Stanley. Audio. (reccied by Richard) Ran out of time.
In the Shadow of Gotham by Stephanie Pintoff. Kindle. Ran out of time.
Book of Night by Holly Black. Audio. Didn't enjoy so pearl-ruled it at Chapter 6.
Old in Art School by Nell Painter - It's read by the author. She really should have paid someone to read it. I don't know why authors think they are the best people to read their books. So far, I've only read two authors who do a good job reading their own books: Neil Gaiman and Stephen King (On Writing only)
The Sentence by Louise Erdrich - Too depressing and I just couldn't get into it.
Sorrowland by Rivers Solomon - Just too depressing and I didn't care.
Chouette by Claire Oshetsky. Audio. It started so slowly and weirdly, with characters I couldn't warm to, that I didn't feel compelled to pick it back up after I stopped listening to sleep, and then I ran out of time. I may try again another time.
Blue Skinned Gods by SJ Sindu. Audio. I read up to Book 2, Chapter 1, but as far as I could tell, though the writing was lovely, it was about a boy abused by religious grifter parents, and it just didn't grab me. Maybe I'll try again another time when I'm feeling more upbeat and less stressed.
Widdershins by Jordan L. Hawk. Kindle. Ran out of time. Also, I had just finished a Kindle book, and my eyes can only do so much reading these days. (This is not available as an audiobook, at least not that I can access anyway.)
Gwendy's Button Box by Stephen King and Richard Chizmar. Just couldn't work up the enthusiasm to go back to it after getting to Chapter 17. I had the same kind of issue with Mr. Mercedes which, after trying to read it 2x and just not being able to, tried one last time and boom! It was a favorite. So, perhaps I'll set this aside and try again another time.

Welcome!

*smooch*

I'm sorry it was necessary for you to make the move at all.

Welcome back to the scrappy side.

The world is ever so overtly political these days.

I've read a few of your listed books and have a couple of others high in my TBR, so I can tell you've had some good reading to compensate for the general current disasters.

Hi Mary. I didn't know about the no politics rule at Green Dragon, I hope my last post didn't get you in trouble. I've dropped a star and I promise to behave myself as best as I can. I am planning on reading The Kaiju Preservation Society in July and I am really looking forward to it.

Welcome back! Never too late to start.

>8 richardderus: No worries. It's easy enough to move digs on LT. (Not much in the way of heavy furniture to move, you know.)

>9 quondame: Haha, yes, I think a little scrappy gives zest to it all. It's really hard to avoid politics, if I want to share anything of myself these days. Yes, books have saved my sanity, that's for sure!

>10 DeltaQueen50: Judy, please, don't even think about behaving yourself! There are no rules here, except to have fun. Of course, general rules of civility (i.e., don't be mean to anyone) apply, but lightly. Lightly. And swearing's fine. And shenanigans! Lots and lots of those are preferred.

I think you will really enjoy Kaiju! I look forward to seeing what you think of it once you've read it.

>11 drneutron: Thanks, Jim! I feel at home already.

Hi Mary. I don't comment much but I lurk and I noticed the kerfuffle over on your other thread. I have only ever been in the 75ers and had no idea about *moderators* and *rules*. That moderator over there sounded an awful lot (to me) like he was imposing censorship. Unless he is living under some large rock, I would think it would be awfully hard to not know what is going on in the world and not be affected by it. People ought to be able to commiserate and support one another in troubled times. And you should be allowed to express yourself on your own thread, no? In my experience, almost all discussions about pretty much any topic on LT have always been respectful and polite.

Anyhow, glad you have moved over here!

PS - hope you bring over the pics of the grands! :-)

Welcome to the 75er's group! Sorry to hear about all the kerfuffle at the other thread. Hope you are able to feel like yourself and post freely.

You have been reading quite a lot of great books. Looking forward to following you. Got you starred :)

The Green Dragon's loss is very much our gain, Mary!

I am so happy to see you back with us.

Glad you are back with us, Mary!

I'll still follow along, wherever your thread might be.

I've got Grief of Stones on my library holds list, and I'm sure it'll be a "drop everything and read" title when it arrives.

Hi Mary!

I’m glad to see you in the group this year, even and especially mid-year, with so much going on politically. I’ll return to read about the books you’ve read, but I’m right in the middle of posting on Richard’s thread, so don’t want to get too confused.

>9 quondame: Heh. The scrappy side. I like it.

edited to add: *shudder* to some of the nastier bits on your Green Dragon thread. Truly, I'm so glad to see you here!

>15 jessibud2: Thanks, Shelley, but I knew the "rules" when I started my thread in the Green Dragon group and was happy to abide. I do a lot - I mean, a LOT - of political posting on other social media platforms, so I didn't feel denied outlet for my thoughts and feelings, and LT for me is, to a large degree, about books: book referrals, book discussions, etc. However, I draw the line at posters who are not members of GD being made to feel bad for posting something outside the rules. Anyway, I'm glad to be back, and I plan to remain a member of the 75ers going forward. (Turns out I don't do real well with hard-and-fast rules after all.)

>16 figsfromthistle: Thanks, Anita! I don't want to upset anyone who doesn't want to hear about my thoughts on today's current events, which is one reason I moved back to the 75er group. I mean, it is a rule, and they have a right to expect everyone follow it. I just don't think I can anymore. Also, my friends who come visit my thread don't deserve to feel bad for posting what they think, because they didn't agree to the rules (I did). I don't want anyone to be upset.

Anyway, yes, I have been reading some really good stuff lately! I'm still a little fragile so haven't tackled some of the weightier books that might trigger my PTSD (yes, that's what I think it is). I hope that changes soon.

I look forward to finding your thread and getting to know you more too!

>17 PaulCranswick: Thanks, Paul!

>19 bell7: Thanks, Mary! Grief was very good, so I hope your hold shows up soon! I look forward to seeing what you think once you've read it.

Edited to fix typo

>20 karenmarie: Well, I knew the rules, so...

Thank you for the welcome! I'll be sure to visit your thread too, see what you're up to.

(I love "the scrappy side" too!)

Sweet Thursday, Mary! Happy New Thread. Welcome back. Not a whole lot of political chatter going on here but it is nice to be able to express your thoughts when you take the notion. Dark times, my friend and I don't see any light in the near future. Sad and disheartening.

I just requested Sea of Tranquility and should get to it soon.

I love your rules about having fun and participating in shenanigans!

>25 msf59: Mark! Thanks for the welcome! Yes, you are exactly right. Mostly book talk (and grandkid talk, tbh), but when something important needs saying, it's good to be able to say it. I hope you enjoy Sea as much as I did. If you've read Glass Hotel, some of the characters show up in Sea. I didn't, and it wasn't an issue, but now I want to read Hotel.

>26 DeltaQueen50: He he. And the more the merrier!

So, here are a few of my obligatory grandkid pics. Well, maybe obligatory isn't the right word. Ubiquitous is more like it.


Ruby loves her baby brother so much she is incapable of keeping her hands off him. Luckily, he lets her know in no uncertain terms when he's had enough grabby hands.


Rowan practicing his two-fisted housecleaning technique. We're raising him right!


Ruby at the Rally for Women's Reproductive Rights.

We've been teaching her from birth that her body is her own, and that she does not have to allow anyone to touch her, tickle her, kiss her, or hug her if she doesn't want it. For awhile, she refused all requests for hugs and kisses, but that only lasted a little while. I think she was testing whether we really meant it. When she saw we did, and that we were okay with her choices, she started initiating hugs and kisses. Now, I'm not allowed to leave and go just downstairs to my apartment without her giving me a number of hugs and kisses.


Me at the rally in my red Moms Demand shirt, talking with my state senator (Elijah Reichlin-Melnick) and one of the speakers.

>18 FAMeulstee: Oh! How did I miss you, Anita? So sorry.

Thanks for the warm welcome!

>19 bell7: I picked Grief of Stones up at the library on Monday, but I'm still doing June TIOLI, so it's just sitting on the table...

>28 Storeetllr: Gorgeous grandkids!

>29 Storeetllr: No worries, Mary. I thought I was following you at the Green Dragon, but probably unstarred you there unintentionally. So I was really glad to see you were back here.

>28 Storeetllr: Lovely pictures of the grandkids!

>30 quondame: I don't know how you have the strength of will to resist! I hope you like it when you pick it up.

Thanks. I love posting pics of them. It always makes me smile.

>31 FAMeulstee: Thanks, Anita! I'm glad you like the pics. There will be more! (Fair warning.)

>28 Storeetllr: ...wait...you have grandchildren?! Why have you never mentioned it before?! Good gracious, Mary, kind of a large thing not to mention!

>32 Storeetllr: Um, Richard? You've often *melted* over the pics I've posted of the grands. Unless you thought they were my own kids. Or nieces/nephews.**

Anyway, yes, I have two adorable little munchkin grandbabies. Well, one is a baby and one is three and a half this month. In fact, we're having a dual birthday party this year - for my *mumblemumblemumble*th birthday and Ruby's 3-1/3 year birthday. With two cakes and ice cream. (Have I ever mentioned that I LOVE cake?) (And Ruby adores ice cream.)

**Oh, wait. Are you being sarcastic? You're being sarcastic, aren't you.

End of June recap:

Books read: 6

Audiobooks: 5
Kindle books: 1

4.5 stars: 4
4 stars: 1
3.5 stars: 1

Genre:

Fantasy: 5
-Urban fantasy: 2
-Fantasy: 2
-SpecFic: 1
Historical fiction: 1

Favorite book of the month:

A tie between Race the Sands by Sarah Beth Durst and The Grief of Stones by Katherine Addison. Grief of Stones might just edge out Race the Sands by a smidgen because I've actually reread it once again already, although Race the Sands was really good.

>32 Storeetllr: I have 17 library books due before Grief of stones, 3 of which satisfy July TIOLI challenges (other than #5, which all of them satisfy). I won't read all of them in July, and maybe will only get to one or two before reuniting with Thara Celehar, but I do have my reasons for delaying gratification.

Welcome home, Mary!

I just stopped by your GD thread this morning. That was a whole lot of knicker twisting over not much but I guess they need to nip any objective (!) talk in the bud. Yikes - what would they think of twitter!

I have The Lost Words Bookshop on my list and I'm glad you're still enjoying Bruno. I'm going to give The Enchanted April a try on audio at the end of the month if the timing works out with Overdrive. I just loved the book.

Sweet and adorable photos!! Enjoy your weekend!

>36 quondame: You've said that before, Susan, and I remain awed by your ability to delay gratification.

>37 Copperskye: Thanks, Joanne! Glad to be back. Yes, a lot of ado over nothing, but they have their rules by which I agreed to abide. I've now decided I can't, so I won't be posting over there any more.

Your reading plan sounds good. I think (hope) you'll enjoy Lost Words Bookshop, and I'm SURE you'll enjoy Enchanted April on audio.

>34 Storeetllr: Oh, no no no, not sarcastic...merely ironic. Permaybehaps a bit facetious, but sarcastic I refute!

*smooch*

Hi Mary. What a fun surprise to see your new thread. I’m glad you’re back where you belong. . ;-) Good to see the kiddos and books came with you.I rather liked The Midnight Library, too. It made my Favorites list last year.

>40 richardderus: Hah. And I fell for it. Even after a decade of us being LT friends. Maybe cutting down on my coffee intake isn't such a good idea.

>41 Donna828: Thanks, Donna! I do feel at home here, so it's good to be back. Glad you like seeing the pics of the grands. I was surprised how much I got out of The Midnight Library. It may end up on my favorites list for this year, although that's already really long. I'm not sure I'll be able to cut it down to 5 books, or even 10, since it's longer than that already, and it's only July.

>41 Donna828: >42 Storeetllr: I'm sort of a pushover for do-over novels, so The Midnight Library was just my thing.

Hi Mary, good to see you back among the 75ers.

Saw you on a few other 75ers threads so came by to say hello and please be political as you like here. And keep posting pictures of the grands!

>43 quondame: It was really good, Susan, even though I'm not into do-over novels. That trope worked well in this one.

>44 Familyhistorian: Thanks, Meg! Good to be back.

>45 witchyrichy: Hah! You know I will, Karen! Both be political and post pics of the grands.

So, I haven't been around for a few days, dealing instead with The Second Great Flood of 2022. This time, rather than being flooded out by rain gushing in, an ancient pipe near the ancient water meter developed a leak, and before I was aware of what was happening, my entire carpet was inundated. On the Sunday of a three-day weekend. I'm not even sure how long the leak was happening before I realized. Not longer than a couple weeks, but long enough to soak about 130 square feet of carpet and possibly develop mold. It's so bad, homeowners insurance is involved, and I've got to move all my stuff out and find somewhere else to sleep for awhile.

But, there is a silver lining, and it's a good one: I'm getting rid of this horrible carpet and having wood laminate put down. (I wish it could be real wood, but it's a basement, so no.) And insurance will pay for a good portion of it. I've got a contractor coming out tomorrow to give me an estimate for the flooring, and I've got a call into a mold inspector. (Ick.)

So, I might not be around a lot in the next week or so until this mess gets straightened out.

Oh no, sorry to hear about the pipe leak in your basement. I hope you're able to get it straightened out without too much trouble and that there's no mold. Glad to hear it means you can get rid of a horrible carpet and that your insurance will cover most of it!

Thanks, Mary! It's been rough, the past few days, but it will be over soon, and with a new floor to enjoy and make the suffering bearable! Also a new water meter, which I forgot to mention before. The plumber who fixed the leak said it must be at least 50 years old. I wouldn't be surprised if it was older. It's being replaced on Friday.

>47 Storeetllr: Oh blast! Well getting rid of yetch carpet and having a new floor is some consolation, but nope to the mold. Vile stuff. I hope it's gone soonest.

Hi Mary, I've been lurking here since you created this thread (blissfully unaware of the GD drama). I recognize your name from previous years, and seeing as I've been quietly following for a few days I thought I'd de-lurk to say hello. And also to say I'm sorry to hear about the leak but it looks like you're on top of the repairs and have found a silver lining.

Oh Mary, I am so sorry to hear about yet another flood. As I mentioned once before, I had 3 major basement floods within 18 months, a few years back. In the first, I also lost the carpeting (and was also not sad to see that one go). After the basement was cleaned up and rebuilt, I put down laminate flooring, beautiful. But then the second flood happened and I lost that flooring too, only 4 months after having it installed because the water seeped under the under-floor. I swore I would not put down any more flooring but my handyman suggested a type of flooring that was cemented directly onto the base concrete floor and it is not only beautiful, but practical and if there is ever another flood the water will not be able to seep beneath it. I just texted him to ask the exact name of what it is as I can't remember. I will let you know as soon as he replies. It will be well worth it to get something that won't be ruined in case of future flooding issues. And if insurance will help cover part of the cost, even more so.

Ok, he just texted me back. It is ceramic tile flooring but he said the ceramic tiles can be made of a variety of materials. I can show you a picture of what mine looks like but it's probably best to go to a flooring store and see what they have. Prices vary, too, but I think as long as it's something that can be cemented directly onto a concrete base floor, it should be good.

Good luck!

Yeesh. I hope this gets sorted quickly!

>50 quondame: Yeah, definitely nope to mold! I used bleach on the walls, and all the dark blotches are gone. I'm still going to have the inspection.

>51 lauralkeet: Hi, Laura! So glad you're visiting and thanks for de-lurking! Yes, getting rid of the icky old carpet is definitely a silver lining.

>52 jessibud2: Thanks for that info, Shelley! I wouldn't bet against more pipes bursting, since this house is 102 years old, and the pipes are almost as old. I would love to see a picture of what your ceramic floor looks like. I've got ceramic tile in the kitchen area, but it's slick when wet, and I've slipped on it more than once. I really want to get a new floor for the kitchen too, but it isn't worth it if we aren't going to stay here for more than another year or two. I am just using runners to keep from slipping and falling.

Anyway, insurance will pay to replace the carpet with comparably priced material, but they won't pay to upgrade, so I guess it depends on how much more expensive ceramic tile is versus Pergo.

>53 drneutron: Thanks, Jim. Me too. I'm having the contractor out this afternoon to give me an estimate and perhaps schedule to start work. I hope he can start like tomorrow. lol

Actually, I'm going to have to do some work first to get this done. Everything will need to be packed up and put in a storage pod (provided by the insurance co.--yay!) before they can start. I may need to hire someone to help with that. Daunting work!

OMIGAWD

Not AGAIN! What the hell did you do to piss of the nixies around there?!?

*there there, pat pat*

>47 Storeetllr: So sorry to readid about your flooding, Mary.
I hope all goes well with the replacement of the water meter tomorrow.

So sorry to read about the water damage, Mary. What a pain. Hopefully there will be no mold and at least you are getting a new floor out of it.

You probably saw that I took a BB from you for Race the Sands, it looks good but not sure when I will get to it.

Meanwhile I have started The Kaiju Preservation Society and it's a fun read - exactly what I am in the mood for right now.

>57 richardderus: I have NO idea what I did to piss them off, but, when/if I find out, I'm NEVER doing it again!

>58 FAMeulstee: Thanks, Anita. Water meter's been replaced, but the old pipes are still there, so we may have to have more plumbing work done. I just hope we manage to get to it before the pipes burst.

Having decent water pressure is lovely, but we (I) didn't realize it could cause all these issues with old pipes used to essentially NO water pressure.

>59 DeltaQueen50: Thanks, Judy! That's my hope, that mold is not found when work starts on Monday. So glad you're enjoying Kaiju. It's not heavy literature--Scalzi never is--but it is fun. I hope you continue to have fun with it, and that you enjoy Race the Sands when you get to it. I really liked it a lot.

July 10, 2022: So, I've almost got my personal things packed up in boxes and bins. Tomorrow, beginning at 9 am, workers are going to move my furniture and personal effects into a storage pod that will be set in the back yard. Once the space is empty, they'll start tearing out the carpet, removing baseboards, and cutting into sheetrock looking for mold. I'll be sleeping upstairs in Ruby's room for the duration, and she's going to bunk with her mom and Rowen. What a mess!!!!

Halfway through packing up, my neighbor, a locally well-known photographer, called and asked me over for a glass of wine and some "horsey doovers." I ended up spending a couple of hours, outside on her deck in the afternoon shade, drinking some lovely white whine wine, eating smoked trout on flatbread, laughing and talking. It was a much-needed break. And she gave me a couple of boxes which I needed for some of the last of the detritus that I need to pack up.

I am really looking forward to my new floor, which will be a laminate that mimics wood. I think the place will be much lighter and brighter once this musty old carpet is gone. I wish it could be hardwood, but it's a basement. Alternately, I wish it could be ceramic, but I can't afford it. The contractor is bringing me samples tomorrow, and I'll take a picture and post the one I choose here.

Cheers!

July 25: Edited to correct typo

Good luck with it all. It's a pain in the ass but look on the bright side: it could have happened in winter! My first flood did and none of the repair work was able to happen till the snow and ice melted (they had to excavate my back yard to get down to the foundation so they could repair the crack caused by the tree root. The tree had to come out too, so it was months before I got my basement back!). The only thing they were able to do right away - and had to - was remove the carpet and bring in those noisy fans to dry out the floor and walls before mold set in. All of it: yuck. But once it's done, you will be so happy!

>63 jessibud2: Condolences and sympathies for the disruptions and coming home invasion. I do hate having strangers and unpredictable noises in my home.

>62 Storeetllr: The very best of luck, Mary!

I always wanted to live in the city of York but the prevalence for flooding there has put me off - your disruptions probably emphasize to me that I made the right decision to move to high ground in Sheffield instead.

Ugh! Sorry to hear about your flooding, Mary. Best of luck with your repairs and have fun during your Ruby sleepovers. I think you’ll love your laminate flooring.

Sounds like you are ready for the work to begin, and how nice of your neighbor to offer such a lovely break during a stressful time. I hope all goes well today.

I'm hoping the whole process is easier and quicker than usual, Mary. *smooch*

A neighbor with wine and snacks! Wonderful!

Old houses have their charms and their challenges, don't they? Ours is almost 175 years old, and we have had our share of floods. Last month, I walked past the well and found it was spewing out water.

We did get on-demand water heater that means unlimited hot water but I appreciate hotel room water pressure ;-)

Best of luck with the contractor and new floors!

Thanks for the good wishes, Susan, Paul, Joanne, Laura, Richard, and Karen! It was a rough few days, but it's over now, except for a few final touches and, of course, me putting everything back where it belongs.

I do like the floor, though it's a little darker than I thought it would be. Perhaps once I get everything out of the bins and boxes and the bins and boxes out of the living space, it might be just fine. I'll take photos when I can. One thing I did while I had the chance: I moved my sleeping area to the other side of the large room (the two areas are separated by tall bookcases) (because of course). The sitting area is darker now because it has a smaller window, but with lighting, it's fine, and it has more space. I mean, I really didn't need all that space just to sleep. The sleeping area is just as large, but the usable wall space is less. If that makes sense.

Again, I'll post images when I can.

>64 quondame: Thanks, Susan. Yes, having a bunch of strange guys coming in and out of my place was not fun.

>65 PaulCranswick: I didn't know York was prone to flooding, Paul! And, yes, you did make the right decision. You can always visit York, and dealing with flooding and water damage is the pits.

>66 Copperskye: Thanks, Joanne. Actually, Ruby chose to sleep with her mom ("I need mama time," she said. I swear she used those exact words.) so I had her bed to myself. Amazingly, I was displaced for only one night, so that wasn't too stressful for everyone.

>67 lauralkeet: That interlude of sanity with my neighbor was life-saving. Or, at least, sanity-saving.

>68 richardderus: It was definitely quicker, if not easier, than I expected, Richard. They did all the work in 2 days, though I think they might have done a better job if they'd taken one more day. Still, it's mostly good, just a couple of little things they are going to have to fix and/or complete.

>69 witchyrichy: I've always loved old houses, Karen, at least in theory. After this, give me a 1950s bungalow or 1960s ranch any day. Yeah, they don't have quite the same (or, really, any) charm, but they were really well-built and they aren't falling apart yet. But how odd to walk past a well and find it spurting out water! I hope it was an easy fix. Also, what's wrong with your water pressure? When we bought this place, we had really really low water pressure. Plumber at the time said nothing could be done, it was something-something about old pipes. Turns out, it was a leak in the main water intake pipe that was the responsibility of the water company to fix, which they did. Water pressure galore! It was great! I think, though, that's why the darn pipe sprung the leak, because it just wasn't used to all that great pressure. Haha, joke's on us.

Here's a pic of the flooring in my bedroom area. The room isn't organized yet, so please ignore the mess. Also, the lump under the covers on my bed isn't a body. It's my daughter's u-shaped pregnancy pillow (which she no longer needs) (and, she tells me, she never will again). It really helps me sleep well - keeps my legs propped up when I sleep on my back and serves to support my back when I want to sleep partway on my side.

>71 Storeetllr: I'm very sympathetic to lumpy bed issues - I've got a wedge and at least a couple of support bolsters and lots of pillows to keep the comforters from lying on a level.

>72 quondame: Ah, it's tough to have House Beautiful in real life, isn't it.

>71 Storeetllr: ...what mess? Not being polite.

I lurve your floor covering! I'd affirmatively select that specific shade, offered the chance.

It looks really nice, Mary, even if you do have a body hidden in the bed ha ha. It seems like they got the job done fairly quickly. Did you say this is in a basement? It looks light and airy.

>73 Storeetllr: Heh! It kind of depends on how you define house beautiful - and I don't go by magazines, that's for sure. Nothing is more beautiful than the feeling of lying on my perfectly placed supports when I wake up all rested in the morning, no joint screaming. I tend to loose 10-30 min just calmly staying in place before doing my first stretches no that I feel no pressure to be up and moving.

Well, another rainstorm, another flood. I just can't seem to get away from problems with water.

Anyway, it was drizzling this morning when I went upstairs to watch my grandson. Suddenly, the sky opened up and a torrent came down. In less than a half hour, the well outside my kitchen door had filled to overflowing and flowed into my kitchen. I caught it before it got too bad and got the pump going (thank goodness for the pump!), which emptied the well, but I had to use a dozen towels which are now in the washing machine waiting to go into the dryer to mop up the water on the kitchen floor. Now, I'm checking every half hour or more often if the rain is hard to see if the well is filling up. I've had to use the pump 4 times so far. Luckily, it works really quickly to empty the water, but it's just so annoying. Basement living at its worst.

The Nixie Network is running overtime offers for your house, Mary. Apparently Mélusine and the Rusalka needed more hours to maintain their Pest Certifications.

*there there, pat pat*

>74 richardderus: Hah! Love you, RD. Guess I'm just sensitive about messiness. Glad you like the color/shade. The more I live with it, the more I like it.

>75 lauralkeet: Thanks, Laura! They told me it would take about a week, but they finished it in 2 days. Of course, they left a few little things undone which they'll have to fix before I give them the last payment, but nothing I can't live with. It is a basement, and it's not light and airy, though with lighting it's better and I am hoping to make it lighter and airier with light furniture and furnishings.

>76 quondame: Oooh, that does sound wonderful! I sometimes do that too, just lie there feeling no pain, knowing when I get up it's back to mucho pain.

>78 richardderus: Those pesky little Nixies better hope I never find them.

>77 Storeetllr: Ack, that's no fun.
>79 Storeetllr: thanks for explaining the layout!

>81 lauralkeet: Nope, no fun at all! But, at least I caught it early enough it didn't flow into the living area and onto the brand new flooring!

Rowan turned 10 months yesterday! Here's what my daughter wrote about him:

Sweet baby Rowan is 10 months today, and it’s been a joy watching his lil personality bloom. He’s clapping, shaking his booty butt to music, saying what I swear is “hi”, standing, copying our actions and sounds, and is thisclose to walking. He is honestly the most easygoing baby, but isn’t at all shy about telling you what he needs.
Rowan loves:
-His sis
-Our cat Winston
-The water: pool/beach/bath/water table/splash pad
-Food: He eats whatever we’re eating, and honestly he loves everything he’s tried except bananas
-Music
-Climbing
-Peekaboo
Rowan tolerates:
-Formula/bottles
-The car
-His sun hat
Rowan dislikes:
-Having his face or hands cleaned
-Getting his clothes or diaper changed
-Sitting in his high chair for one second after he’s done with his food



But, I'll let him tell you in his own words:



His big sister will be 3-1/2 in a couple of days. She is already into makeup, and loves to have make-up parties where she smears it all over herself and us (Rowan's off-limits still). Does she look like a little garden sprite or what?

>83 Storeetllr: What cuties! Big sis reminds me of Fancy Nancy!

>71 Storeetllr: What a cute room. Love the floor!

Awww so sweet!

>84 quondame: Hah! Fancy Nancy and Ruby could be twins! I think I'm going to buy a copy for her. Thanks for mentioning it!

>85 figsfromthistle: Thanks! I'm beginning to like the floor a lot too after living with it for a week. Even though it's a bit darker than I'd hoped, it brightens up the place a lot!

>86 lauralkeet: Thanks, I think so. Obviously. :)

Wow...ten months, almost four...time just flappity-flap-flaps on its nasty bat wings getting tangled in our hair, don't it.

>88 richardderus: Yes. If the bat were a super-sonic rocket, at least at my age. A super-sonic bat that's got its wings tangled in my hair and has whipped me right up and off my feet and is dragging me kicking and screaming into the...

Whoa, I got a bit carried away (pun intended) there. Suffice it to say that time really is relativistic, in more ways than one.

The floor looks great, Mary! And so do the grands! :-)

Hi Mary, I love your flooring and it looks like it won't show any dust easily. I can't believe how quickly your grandkids are growing! That picture of Ruby is priceless! I remember my granddaughter loving the Fancy Nancy books - and, my goodness, she's turning 18 in August!!

My sister has a house that needs a pump to keep the rainwater from coming in the front door. She had a number of floods over the years and finally had an automatic pump installed and (fingers crossed) it's been working well.

>90 jessibud2: Thanks, Shelley! It's not ceramic, but it looks (and feels) nice. I was talking to the insurance adjuster yesterday (about my vacuum cleaner that got ruined in the flood), and said something about the old pipes in the walls bursting and ruining my new floor, and he said, "Well, you have insurance! Just keep all your receipts." So...

>91 DeltaQueen50: Thanks, Judy. No, It doesn't show much dirt or dust, though it does show feathers and down. I love that pic of Ruby. Since she was topless in the image, I drew flowers and grass to disguise that fact. Worked pretty well, no?

I was just thinking about maybe getting an automatic pump installed. I mean, the kids are going to the Jersey shore for a week next month and invited me along, but I can't go in case it rains. I don't want to live like that.

>87 Storeetllr: I fell in love with the character, she is so irrepressibly cheering. Of course the dolls help!

Mary, I'm sorry about the water problems, but I really do like the new flooring. We have LVT on the main level and it is so easy to care for. A swiffer does a quick daily clean (for dog hair) and an occasional vacuuming and mopping for deeper cleaning. Plus, when we had our flood from a broken pipe upstairs this spring, we didn't have to worry about a warped wooden floor.

Of course, I also loved the grandkiddo's pictures and what your daughter wrote about Rowan. My goodness, he is getting to be a big boy with a mind of his own. That's a good thing, right?

>93 quondame: Cute doll! I didn't know you were a collector! I mentioned Fancy Nancy to my daughter, and she said Ruby loves the show. I don't think she's aware of the books though, so that will be a nice gift for her.

>94 Donna828: Thanks, Donna. I am liking the flooring more and more. It's so easy to maintain (so far). My vacuum was damaged in the flooding (it was standing on the carpet for a couple of days before I realized the carpet was soaked under it), so I've been sweeping daily, and it's actually less effort than using a vacuum, though I'm looking for a new vacuum, cordless and bagless this time because I don't have anywhere to put a larger one when it's not being used. My daughter swears by her Dyson, though it was very expensive. I had to google LVT. I have LVP - or, more likely, plain old VP. Not sure mine's all that luxury, although it is supposed to be waterproof.

Rowan took his first real steps today! Three in a row, which my daughter did not get a video of, and then one more that she did video. He's only 10 months, 5 days. We are definitely in trouble! He is a mover, that boy, and doesn't like to sit still for long.

Sorry about more water...

We have a Dyson and a Shark. Both are great but I like the Shark a little better because it’s lighter. We also have a golden retriever so they get a lot of use. I bet a Swiffer would work really well for you, too - those little cloths pick up a lot of dust, etc.

First steps, oh no, already!? Good luck keeping up! :)

>83 Storeetllr: Adorable!

+1 on the Shark.

>95 Storeetllr: Thanks! It's cool she already likes the show. I haven't a clue if it's close to the books, but the two I've read are fun.

>96 Copperskye:, >97 richardderus: Another vote for the Shark!

Have a lovely deshelling day. *smooch*

>96 Copperskye: Thanks, Joanne. I agree, the kids are adorable! As for the flooding - Just a basement-living issue. At least we own the place, though when this kind of thing happens I kind of wish we had a landlord to complain to who would be responsible for getting the repairs done.

>98 quondame: Yes, Fancy Nancy has to speak to Ruby since she also loves dress up and decorating with stickers and paint and anything else she can get her hands on.

>100 richardderus: Thanks so much, Richard! *smooches*

>96 Copperskye: >97 richardderus: >99 lauralkeet: Sharks are much more affordable! What kind of Shark do you recommend? There are a lot of different models. The one I was leaning toward was this one, which was rated "best" on one of the review websites, though it's around 7 lbs. heavier than the "stick" ones.

^^^That's the one. The crevice tool works great! When you're done, though, I've found that having a bleach-wipe handy to get the powdery bits off the tube-end thing is useful. I'm hoping it'll go one sale before you buy, though. I got it for $159.99 and think it's well worth that much, but $200?!

>104 richardderus: I almost bought it on Prime Day for about $160, but my daughter said not to because she had a Shark and didn't like it but loves her Dyson. So, I really can't wait too long, although I'm doing fine so far with just a broom and a Swiffer wetjet.

>105 Storeetllr: It's $175 today, and that seems like a reasonable middle ground, so my advice is buy.

>106 richardderus: Interesting. I usually purchase stuff on Amazon Smile because I like the idea of donating to charity whenever I shop. On Smile, it's $199. So I went to Amazon not Smile and it's $175. I KNOW my charity doesn't get $25 on a $200 purchase, so I call b.s. on Smile and am going to double check from now on before I use it. Thank you for spotlighting what looks like a ripoff.

>107 Storeetllr: !!!

That's AWFUL. Yes, by all means check. I'll start doing that, too.

I don't know Fancy Nancy, Mary, but have you heard of the Jillian Jiggs books, by the late Phoebe Gilman? Really fun stuff and I bet Ruby would love them!

>109 jessibud2: Oh! I bet she would, Shelley! I'll have to get one of each for her.

BTW, Rowan is now officially a walkin' dude. I wouldn't be surprised if he isn't running soon.

>110 Storeetllr: - Woohoo! Watch out!! (Go, Rowan!)

>103 Storeetllr: Mary, I just checked my Amazon order history and the model is NV352, purchased in January. I spent all of 5 minutes researching it so I can't tell you how this model differs from the one you're looking at (the price is comparable). NYTimes' Wirecutter site recommended it and I just clicked my way through and bought it.

>109 jessibud2: I'm off to check out Jillian Jiggs ....

>103 Storeetllr: Amazon’s price on that vacuum for me is $198 ($2 cheaper for me!). I know prices change constantly on Amazon, but Smile Amazon and Amazon should always be the same price so that’s odd. Ours is a DuoClean something or other and I don’t see it listed but it looks very similar to the Navigator Lift Away NV 360 that’s $169.99. You should check Target, too, in case they’re on sale.

I hope your birthday was a good one! 🎂

>114 Copperskye: Thanks, Joanne! I'll keep checking Target and Amazon for sales.

So many pros and cons between Shark and Dyson. Who knew shopping for a vacuum cleaner rivals shopping for a vehicle?

ETA Thanks for the birthday wishes! I had a lovely, low-key birthday. My daughter made a delicious summery birthday dinner (greek salad, falafels, flatbread, hummus and tzatziki, after which we had homemade chocolate cake. Pic of me and my darlin' girl below. Today we're going for gelato, which is another birthday treat for me.

Belated Birthday wishes, Mary. Enjoy your gelato!

Happy birthday, Mary! I love gelato! What flavour?

Happy belated birthday! Sounds like a great time, and love the photo 😊

Hi Mary!

>47 Storeetllr: I’m sorry to hear this, glad the old carpet will be gone and you’ll be able to put laminate down.

>71 Storeetllr: I don’t think the flooring looks dark, but of course I don’t live there. Love the color of the walls and your wood furniture.

>77 Storeetllr: You can’t catch a break, sorry to hear about this flooding problem, too.

>83 Storeetllr: Very cute pics of the grandkids.

>103 Storeetllr: I think this is the exact Shark I have. I love it.

>105 Storeetllr: We have a Dyson too, but it’s much heavier and much less maneuverable, so I rarely use it.

>107 Storeetllr: Wow. That never occurred to me, and I use Smile all the time. I guess for big purchases it would pay to check Smile and Not Smile. Sheesh. Just another thing to have to think about.

>115 Storeetllr: A Belated Happy Birthday to you. Low-key is not a bad thing. Homemade chocolate cake is perfect.

>115 Storeetllr: I love the photo! And the birthday dinner sounds excellent. You have me craving Greek food now, and I haven't even had breakfast yet.

Happy belated birthday too ...

>116 DeltaQueen50: Thanks, Judy!

>117 jessibud2: Thanks, Shelley! I love gelato (and ice cream) but try to keep it for special occasions only. My favorite flavors of gelato are chocolate, the darker the better, and coconut, and pistachio, and - well, I could go on. Favorite commercial ice cream is Cherry Garcia.

>118 bell7: Thanks, Mary!

>119 karenmarie: Thanks, Karen

Things were a mess for awhile, but it's okay now. Except for getting everything put back. I'm taking my time with it because I have too much stuff and want to get rid of some of it. Deciding what to let go and what to keep is taking me forever.

I'm really liking the flooring now that it's been in for a week or so. The furniture is my grandma's bedroom set. It's over 100 years old and needs some restoration work, and sometimes I wish I had something newer/sleeker, but having it is somehow comforting. I used to sleep in this bed when I was a little kid and would stay overnight at my grandmother's house.

Thanks for your thoughts on the vacuum. I'm going with the Shark and am just waiting for a sale. Worse that can happen is I won't like it and will have to return it for something else.

As for Amazon Smile, I'm not going to stop using it, but I am going to check when I buy something more expensive than a few dollars. It may just have been a glitch.

>120 lauralkeet: Thanks, Laura! I love Greek food - all Mediterranean food, really - and it was especially nice on a hot summer's day. Yesterday I had a spring green salad dressed with Italian herbs, olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dinner plus flatbread with hummus and tzatziki. Now that I think of it, I might have the same tonight.

End of July recap:

Books read: 10

Audiobooks: 10
Other: 0

4.5 stars: 2
4 stars: 6
3.5 stars: 2

Genres:

Fantasy: 5
-Urban fantasy: 2
-High fantasy: 3
Scifi: 1
Horror: 1
Historical romance: 1
Mysteries: 2

Rereads: 4

Favorite book of the month:



The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. 4.5 stars, tending toward 5 stars. Although I found the MC annoying at times, I loved how she grew over the course of the book. I also enjoyed the philosophical quotes (now I want to read Walden Pond) and physics-related theories - "or do I mean hypothesis? whatever" - scattered throughout the prose. It's very good writing, and the premise is fascinating. I've often wondered what I'd do differently if I could go back to my youth, and I've come to the conclusion that really there's nothing I'd do differently because, if I had done something differently, I wouldn't have ended up here, living with my daughter and her family and being a part of my grandkids' lives. The decisions I made over the years - the good, the bad, and the soul-wrenchingly awful - resulted in me being where I am today. As for regrets, "I've had a few," but, again, changing one small thing would have ended me up in a completely different life, and I want to be here, exactly where I am. And it's what I do - or don't do - today that matters. Anyway, philosophical discussions aside, I really enjoyed the novel and will look for more by Haig.

>124 Storeetllr: - I have a seemingly growing pile of books I started but haven't finished this year due to my reading slump and diminishing attention span. This was one of them and I hope to get back to it soon. It's at the top of the pile.

>124 Storeetllr: We are the sum of our memories, of action and (often more painful) inaction. I think mental health means feeling good about who and where you are. It's such a load off to get, and be, there!

*smooch*

>125 jessibud2: Ugh! The dreaded reading slump. So sorry you're in one. I've been in these kinds of slumps a lot more in the past 6 years than I can recall ever being in before. When it happens, the only thing that helps is rereading books I have loved, sometimes more than once, and continuing to try to find a new book that grabs my attention. I hope you escape from yours soon!

>126 richardderus: Truth, Richard, and especially the inaction part. I think most of the regrets I have are for not doing something rather than for the things I've done. Although there are a couple of things I confess I bitterly regret doing. Still, where I am now is the result of all those things/not-things, and I'm content. Cheers!

Anybody else crazy excited about the debut of the Sandman adaptation on Netflix? I wanted to start watching as soon as I woke up today. As soon as I finish my chores and get an early dinner prepped, I'll be binge watching for the rest of the evening.

Yep! Looking forward to it once I finish my current Firefly/Serenity re-binge. Every now and then, gotta put the brown coat on… 😀

Haha, yes! I haven't rewatched Firefly for awhile (I have a hard time rewatching Serenity. It's too painful for me.) Thanks for the reminder, Jim!

I watched the first 3 episodes of Sandman on Friday night. I wanted to keep going (it was SO GOOD!), but Ep. 4 is the one in the diner, and I thought I had better not, so close to bedtime, or I might not get to sleep. Or I'd have nightmares. Yesterday, I was too busy so didn't get a chance to watch - I even forgot to do Wordle! - so, today I'm planning on watching the next 3 or 4 episodes. I'd watch them all, but it's pretty intense and I'm not sure I'll be able to. Let me know what you think when you've had a chance to watch.

I watched ep 1 and I must say it was such a treat.

Happy Sunday's reads, Mary!

Hey, Richard! Nice to see you here! Yes, it was a treat, as were 2 and 3. But it's what I've come to expect from anything Gaiman is connected with.

Suddenly, instead of a dearth of books I want to read, I've got too many. That's what comes of borrowing from the library sometimes - all the holds come in at the same time, and I can't decide which ones to borrow and which to put back on hold. I do like that new feature - when a hold comes in, you can ask that it be delivered later, so you don't lose your place in line but get the book the next time a hold comes due. I am afraid I don't always have the self-discipline to do that, but it's a cool service.

>132 Storeetllr: It's a sanity-saver for me, as well. I can't always control my greed so it helps to be able to spread it out over time.

I'm going through my generations of MOBI files I've uploaded intending to send them to Kindle...this month is the last month those kinds of files will be accepted by email. We'll still be able to read them, just not send them to the device. And I was *stunned* at the number of Project Gutenberg free-old-books I've taken but never sent to the Kindle!! Still...that's why I got the biggest-possible storage for it, so I could load it up.

Huh. I didn't know that. Wonder why Amazon decided that. It can't cost that much to provide the email service. I usually directly upload MOBI files to my Kindle through the cable. I had some trouble with the Kindle email feature awhile back and just said screw it.

Not out of any cost-saving anything, believe me. We're now in the EPUB world and, while they won't make us re-buy all our old MOBI titles, we can't add them if they weren't added (like a DRC or something that was downloaded to the computer and never made it to the Kindle after that...like I have a ton of!) after the end of the month.

Wait. You mean I won't be able to add them to my Kindle from my computer through my USB cable anymore?

Not MOBI files, no. So get them up to Amazon's cloud before the 31st!

Hi Mary, I will have to add The Sandman to my list of shows! I am still working my way through Season two of The Witcher and the Bridgerton Romance series.

Hi, Judy! Have you read the Sandman graphic novels? They're pretty dark, and the Netflix adaptation sticks pretty closely to the GNs, so be prepared. I loved it and thought it was very well done.

I'm not much of a TV watcher myself. I watched a few episodes of The Bridgertons but couldn't stay involved enough to continue (I know, I'm in the minority on that) and haven't seen The Witcher. Perhaps I should check that one out. I did watch a few episodes of Stranger Things the other day, and it was interesting, but again didn't feel invested enough to continue.

Happy weekend-ahead's reads, Mary. Send all your healing energy to Salman Rushdie as he recovers from the awful attack on him today.

That was awful, Richard. I'm hoping he recovers and doesn't lose the sight in the injured eye. He's such a brave man. It's so ironic that, though he's been threatened by the crazies in Iran since Satanic Verses, it was a British citizen of Indian origin living in the US for the past 20 years who harmed him. Also, wtf is wrong with the Chautauqua Institute that they refused to beef up security when requested to do so?

So, I was looking back through some of the July posts and realize I never posted an update which vacuum cleaner I chose. It was considerably more expensive than the one I was looking at, mostly because of a couple of reviews I read and because I have a dust-devil, I mean, parrot to clean up after. I chose a cordless Shark that cost $350, and it works great! Though I keep trying to maneuver as if it has a cord. Best of all, insurance paid for it!



Rowan is walking like he's a toddler and not a baby, though he is only 10-1/2 months old. My daughter says he likes being carried for awhile, but then demands to be put down so he can walk. As she says, he's the tiniest walkin' dude on the splashpad.

>142 Storeetllr: What a special little guy! They do have minds of their own, for sure.

Ooh, a cordless Shark! I love that you treated yourself on the insurance company's dime too.

And look at that tiny walkin' dude. So cute!

>143 quondame: He sure does, and isn't shy in telling you.

>144 lauralkeet: He is a cutie, that's for sure, and brave?!? His motto could be "No Fear."

I love having a cordless vacuum, and one that goes for a long time between charges. I mean, my place isn't very large, so it doesn't take me very long to vacuum the entire place, but I can vacuum at least 2-3 times before needing to charge it. As far as claiming it on the insurance, it hadn't occurred to me at first, but then I thought, why not ask about it. I called the adjuster, and he said, sure, it's part of the damages, so I put in the claim. My ex used to say that insurance is like a bet against yourself, but it's wonderful to have when you need it.

Well, there’s no stopping little Rowen now!

Congrats on the free vacuum!

>146 Copperskye: Thanks! And, no, no stopping him at all!

>142 Storeetllr: Awww. How cute! I am referring to Rowan not the Vacuum ;)

Rowan is making a splash in the world. Sorry, I couldn't resist. He sure is a cutie. I think you are brilliant for getting your Shark covered in the damages to your place. The cordless one will be perfect for you.

Hi Mary, I have indeed read the Sandman series of Graphic Novels. I was part of a group read a number of years ago and really enjoyed the experience. I am looking forward to seeing the adaptation. Rowan is a doll and that looks like a great way to beat the heat!

*smoochiesmoochsmooch*

That is all.

>148 figsfromthistle: Haha, Rowan is definitely much cuter than the vacuum, Anita, for all that the new vacuum is a wonderful thing to have.

>149 Donna828: Heh, he's single-minded when he wants something, and he wanted to get to the shower thingy in the worst way! I'm loving the new vacuum, except for one thing: it doesn't pick up almond shells or, really, anything larger than a split pea. Unlike my old Kenmore canister vacuum.

>150 DeltaQueen50: Just rewatched The Sandman, and it was even better the second time around. It's pretty close to the comic, although there are differences. I recently reread the comic - at least the first few books - and personally think the changes are for the best.

>161 msf59: Thanks, Richard! Sometimes a smooch is all I need.

So, from feast to famine. For some reason, I just couldn't get into most of the books I got from the library so don't have anything to read! Tragic, right? Except no, it's actually a good thing just now. Because it gave me time to rewatch The Sandman, which is pretty wonderful (esp. Ep. 6, which I will be rewatching anytime I need my spirits uplifted), and I just learned that two bonus episodes have dropped: “A Dream of a Thousand Cats” and “Calliope.” This makes me ridiculously happy!

...

Plus, thanks to Judy ( >138 DeltaQueen50: Thanks, Judy!), I started watching The Witcher. So far, it's pretty compelling, if confusing. And dark. Really dark. Which I'm totally down with. Just warning anyone who hasn't seen it yet. Anyway, I'm up to Ep. 4, I think, or maybe 5, and I like it but think I'll watch a couple more before I decide to continue for sure.

Oh, heck, I forgot to post the most important photo of all: Rowan standing on his head. Check out that form! Olympic material, no?

>154 Storeetllr: Aww...!

>155 quondame: :)

So, I'm on my own this week. The kids have gone to the Jersey shore, leaving me here to take care of the animals and make sure the forecasted rain doesn't cause another flood. I'm planning to join them for a day either Wednesday through Thursday or Thursday through Friday, whichever works best weather-wise, if I feel up to it. It's a 2-1/2 to 3 hour drive, to which I'm not looking forward. Sitting in one position for that long is torture, especially after when I try to walk again.

Anyway, my daughter sent me a few pics, among them:


Rowan turned 11 months on Saturday. Already he's walking, climbing, playing "catch" (rolling the ball and then catching it when it is rolled back to him), saying bye and hi (I swear he is) along with mama and dada. I think he said up the other day, but I couldn't be certain.


Beach Beauties

>156 Storeetllr: They're such beauties!

Were I you, I'd stay put and hunker down away from everyone and everything.

>157 richardderus: Yeah, I would like to do that, but I miss the kids and I love being at the beach. (Is that advice in reference to the still-continuing plague or just for the peace and quiet of being alone? Or both. I could get behind both.)

>158 Storeetllr: Heh...more the peace-and-quiet angle, though the polio outbreak and the discovery of the virus in the wastewater that's been discharged (can't filter out viruses and there are goofballs who refuse vaccination at appropriate ages) make me less interested than ever in summer beach frolics.

>156 Storeetllr: They are such cuties!

Hi, Mary. I was wondering why I wasn't seeing your thread on my feed. Now, I know why- I had you unstarred. WTH? I love the fact that we not only share a deep love for books but we also share a deep love for our grandkids. I love the photos! Funny, Rowan is a month behind Jack, but Jack is still not walking or talking. I am sure he will be doing both in the coming weeks. ❤️

>159 richardderus: Ah, yes, peace and quiet has a lot of charm for me. The other issues, not so charming. I hate that we have to worry about such things today, in 2022, over 50 years since polio was "wiped out." Stupid, stupid people.

>160 quondame: I won't disagree, Susan!

>161 msf59: And I was wondering why you weren't visiting my thread, Mark. Glad to know it wasn't something I said! *smile* As for Rowan starting early, it's all a crap shoot. Ruby didn't walk until she was 12 or 13 months, and she stuck with mama and dada for a long time before branching out, and she didn't play ball until she was a lot older. Each child is unique, and perfect in their uniqueness. Anyway, happy you found me again!

>156 Storeetllr: Looks like they are having a great time!

Checking in for the first time here, Mary. Sorry it took me so long.

>156 Storeetllr: Love the pictures!

I hope you have a terrific Tuesday!

>162 Storeetllr: I agree, stupid is a problem...but this is religious stupid, which (to me) is so very much worse.

>156 Storeetllr: Aw! So cute! Summers at the Jersey shore. Takes me back...

>163 figsfromthistle: Oh, they were! Both love the beach. Ruby loves the ocean, while Rowan's a fan of the bay. (They were on an island and had the choice of either.)

>164 alcottacre: Hi, Stasia! So glad to see you here! I'll have to find your thread too; I haven't been very good about keeping up with everyone this year.

>165 richardderus: Agreed.

>166 Copperskye: I bet it does, Joanne! We even went to a carnival one night, which made me think of the John Ceepak mystery series. And of you. :)

So, I decided to drive down to Long Beach Island, New Jersey, which is about a 2-1/2 hour drive in good traffic. Unfortunately, my trip down took me 3-1/2 hours, but I was in time to have dinner at a very expensive (everything's expensive there) restaurant on the bay side of the island, not far from the cottage where we stayed at. I ended up having scallops, which were very good, and a couple of glasses of a nice white wine. Then we went to Fantasy Land, a carnival that has a lot of kid rides as well as adult rides. Ruby rode on a bunch of rides, and Rowan was happy just to walk around amongst the crowd and try to steal any ball he happened to see another kid holding. (He LOVES balls.) When it was time to leave, Ruby had a slight meltdown from being overstimulated and overtired, but we got back to the cottage and she fell asleep in just a few minutes of hitting the pillow. So did I.

Next morning, we went to the beach for a few hours, then lunch, and then I drove back (only took 3 hours coming back).

The kids are talking about going for 2 weeks next year, but when they got home today, my daughter said she was "SO happy to be home!" so I think 1 week is about all they're up for. I might board the bird and join them for the entire week, though being away from home for an entire week is a bit daunting at this point. Also, I'm not rich. (See above, "everything's expensive there.")


Ruby coming to get me to go down to the water's edge while Rowan staggers toward the waves.


Me and my darling girl


I could just eat him up! He was absolutely entranced by the lights and colors and movement.

And, lest you think I did not get my feet wet in the ocean

>168 Storeetllr: It looks a treat!

It was, Susan! I was surprised how much I enjoyed the short respite, though I do love the ocean and miss living in SoCal where Santa Barbara and Carpinteria are each an hour and a half's drive away. Or they were, when I lived there. With increased traffic, could be a lot longer drive now.

>170 Storeetllr: Too true about the traffic. I can get to Santa Monica, the city part in around 10 to 15 minutes almost any time. The issue is getting back, which may take 3-4 times that long. Getting to the beach, of course takes more than parking in the city.

I'm glad you enjoyed your beach break, Mary. That water looks very refreshing!

I wasn't sure about Witcher for the whole first season but it really took off for me in the second season and now I can hardly wait until Season 3.

I am off to visit my family on Vancouver Island for a couple of weeks but when I get back I will immerse myself in "The Sandman".

>171 quondame: I forgot you live in SoCal! Yes, it would take forever getting back from Santa Monica, especially during rush hours. Although I guess every hour is rush these days. When my daughter was young, I used to drive to Santa Monica in about an hour, park at the parking structure a few blocks from the beach, and then we'd walk down to the shore. I think. It's been many years.

>172 DeltaQueen50: Thanks, Judy. I may watch more Witcher, but it's not a priority. Have a wonderful time with your family on the island! And when you get back, I'll expect a report on what you thought of Sandman. :)

August Recap

Well, it's been a slow reading month for me. I'm sure I'll make it up in the next couple of months, especially October, which for me means scary stories. I've been saving a few over the past months just to be able to read them in October, along with my annual Halloween Spooktober reads: Girl With All The Gifts, Boy on the Bridge, and A Night In The Lonesome October.

So, here goes August:

Books read: 7

Audiobooks: 7
Other: 0

4.5 stars: 2
4 stars: 3
3.5 stars: 1
3 stars: 1

Genres:

Fantasy: 4
Scifi: 1
Historical romance: 1
Nonfiction: 1

Rereads: 1

Favorite book of the month:



68. Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr. 4.5 stars. Audio. Though a compelling read, this was really weird for about 3/4 of the way through, then all the threads began to come together, and it was, like, WOW! I was stunned by the twist in the story of the Argos. I admit, I didn't see it coming until it was already about to happen. The writing was stellar, and the story was of a type I haven't run into before, though it may not be the first of its kind. I may be the last person to have read this, but, if anyone else out there hasn't yet done so, I highly recommend you do.

Arabella was also a 4.5 star read, but it's a reread for me, so it only counts as read but not as favorite. (I know, not fair, but my thread, my rule so...)

Runner up was Remarkably Bright Creatures, which garnered 4 stars. I enjoyed it immensely, but it didn't rise to CCL level.

Two wonderful books - I loved both Cloud Cuckoo Land and Remarkably Bright Creatures. Glad you did, too!

>168 Storeetllr: Oh, Long Beach Island!!! My summer place throughout my youth. We'd go down every August, renting a house in the North Beach Haven area until we settled on one particular place right on the bay. The amusement area wasn't called Fantasy Island then - I forget just what it was called, right next to Bay Village and the adorable little shops (and there used to be a schooner, the Lucy Evelyn, until a fire one winter). I know it's changed a lot but I have pictures in my head and do miss the beach. Anyway, many, many happy memories... So nice that you can share it with your grands!

I read recently that the ocean temps were at record high levels - like 83 at Atlantic City. Yikes! That's why we went in August, when the water was warmer but we'd be happy if it was above 70!

Hiya Mary! *smooch*

>174 Storeetllr: Mary, I'm pretty certain that Cloud Cuckoo Land will be on my favorites list for the year. I loved how it all came together. I'm not sure I could have followed it that well on audio. I do know that the more I listen, the easier it becomes. Our library book sale is next week, and I will be looking for my own copy of CCL.

Great beach pictures! It's fun making those precious memories, isn't it?

Hi Mary, I am back from the Island and now in a day or so I will be starting the Sandman. I am looking forward to it and will let you know how it's going once I get into it.

Hi, Mary. I liked Cloud Cuckoo Land a bit less than my pals but I am still a big fan of Doerr. I recently managed to snag an Audible copy of Remarkably Bright Creatures. I hope to get to it soon.

>175 Copperskye: Hi, Joanne!

Yes, both those books were gems. I may reread Remarkably Bright Creatures just because it was so charming. (I don't think I'll ever be up for a reread of CCL.)

I'm not sure which section of LBI they stayed. As I said, I went for only one day, so I didn't get a chance to see it all. I hope by next summer I'll be able to spend a couple of days at least at the shore.

The ocean water was cold but not freezing, and, once I got used to it, I was able to stay in (feet and lower legs, anyway) for a long time. If nothing's done about climate change, perhaps next year it'll be even warmer.

>176 richardderus: Hey, Richard! *smooches back atcha!*

>177 Donna828: Thanks, Donna! It's definitely fun making those memories. As for Cloud Cuckoo Land, I mostly had no problem following along on audio, except maybe once or twice when I had to "rewind" in order to listen more closely to one of those changes in time/space/character, but I listen to audiobooks almost exclusively these days. Although I recently DNFd an audiobook because the changes back and forth were just too much. I blame it on the narrator. Also, it was a bit draggy and I was bored by the characters and plot. (The Kingdoms by Natasha Pulley.) Hope you scored a bunch of great books!

>178 DeltaQueen50: I really hope you enjoy it, Judy! I've watched it twice so far, and I plan on doing it again sometime. (I love it as much as I loved Good Omens on Amazon Prime, which I've watched at least a half dozen times so far. I don't recall whether you said you saw that one or not.)

>179 msf59: Hope you enjoy Remarkably Bright Creatures when you get to it, Mark. It was really a lovely novel with great characters, especially Marcellus.

I haven't been very active in the past week. Last Friday, I went to the park with my daughter and two grandkids. I ran around with them like a 20-year old (well, more like a lumbering, stiff-jointed grandma), and by that evening my left knee was swollen and hurt so much that all I could do for the next 3-1/2 days was lie in bed listening to comfort reads and playing mindless games like Spider Solitaire. Felt better finally yesterday, but it still aches. I'm afraid I'm in for a knee replacement as well as a hip replacement. Ugh. (I did have fun, though! Not sure it was worth it. Okay, it was worth it.)

While I was laid up, my special girl started her second year at preschool.



Rowan's going to be one next week! I can't believe it's been that long since he joined us. Seems like only a few weeks ago. He's such a joy to be around too. Smart and sweet and very very very brave. He started walking a month ago, and already he's running. He loves balls and loves to play catch with us. He climbs rock walls, slides, stairs - anything that is climbable. I'm so lucky to be able to watch him and his big sister - whom he adores - grow. Anyway, for his birthday, I painted a portrait for my daughter of her and him when they were at the Jersey shore last month. She said it was her favorite photo of them together. I hope I did it justice. (Reference photo also posted.)

>183 Storeetllr: Oh my gosh, Mary, that is gorgeous! I’m sure your daughter will absolutely treasure it.

What medium is it?

Happy birthday and happy first day of school!

Sorry about your knee ache. :(

I'm sorry to read about your knee but that portrait ... Wow! That's beautiful and a wonderful way to mark the occasion.

Thanks, Joanne! Glad you think so. I always worry. It’s watercolor.

Hi, Laura! Thank you for your kind words.

First day of school is such a huge transition. I know all of us recall it with some powerful feelings...as parents or as the attendees.

Rowan! A year old! What happened?!

>187 richardderus: I know, right?!? The year just flew past. They’re having his birthday party at the park tomorrow. I’ll try to post pics of the mayhem.

>183 Storeetllr: That is an awesome piece of art, Mary. I will look for your work at Watercolor, USA at our local art museum next summer. Seriously, you should consider entering the competition. We had wonderful entries from all over the country.

Ruby looks mature for a 3-year-old. When will she turn 4? My Haley is 12 today. We are partying tomorrow at our house. It seems like she was in pre-school just yesterday.

I hope you are back up and running around. I have learned to pace myself, but I don't like missing out on any of the fun!

Thank you, Donna! I will look into it, tho I don’t think my art is quite up to that level.

Ruby will be 4 in January. She’s tall and quite bright, but she’s definitely a 3-year old, which is sometimes like a 2-year old on steroids. Her mom has great parenting skills tho, so she is getting a good grounding.

My knees are still a mess. January can’t come too soon. I plan to get knee replacement surgery lined up for early in the year. And then hip replacement surgery.

Sorry about the knee. I had my hip replaced several years ago and have heard it is easier than knees. I had limped around for a long time and was immediately better after the surgery.

The grands are adorable!

>69 witchyrichy: A very long time ago you asked about our water: the well is old and just busts a gut now and then. My husband can fix it although I have to listen to him grumble about it for a bit first. As for the water pressure, I think it is old pipes and mixed up plumbing that may be the job of the next owners to deal with.

Hi Mary, I am so sorry that you've been having knee issues. Every once in a while I forget my age and do something silly and then have to pay for it. :(

Your watercolor at >183 Storeetllr: is beatiful and I bet your daughter was very touched. You are so talented! I struggle to draw stickmen!

We have been having beautiful weather here recently and have spent most of our evenings outside on the deck so haven't been watching much TV - I expect that will change when the rains arrive.

Ruby's almost 4...wow. I can scarcely process that.

Living with it day to day makes it easier, I am sure.

>183 Storeetllr: Hooray for Ruby! I LOVE the photo and your painting of your daughter and Rowan. What a wonderful gift.
❤️

>191 witchyrichy: Hi, Karen! Thanks, I certainly can’t argue about the kids’ cuteness factor! As for the joint replacement, I heard the same so I’ll probably get the hip done before the knee, tho at present it’s the knees that are giving me the most trouble.

Water issues in old houses are the worst, tho in 2008 I had a pipe burst in a house built in 1978 and take down the living room ceiling, so it can happen anytime.

>192 DeltaQueen50: Thank you, Judy. I think she did like it, tho she’s not very demonstrative. I can draw some, but I use a tracing app (like a lightbox or camera lucida) to get the proportions right before working on the details.

>193 richardderus: i know, right?!? It’s true that being here lessens the impact of changes, but if I stop to think about it, it can take my breath away.

>195 Storeetllr: I have had the same thing happen to me in our condo this year, Mary and in our case it was just that the contractor did a shoddy job with the piping and a tweak in water pressure burst the poor joints. When I investigated they had used the wrong piping material entirely for hot water and I replaced all of it.

September Stats

Books read: 8

New: 5
Rereads: 3

Genres:

Memoir: 1
Literary: 1
Urban fantasy: 2
Romantic mystery: 4

Favorite:

Did Ye Hear Mammy Died: a Memoir by Seamus O’Reilly, followed closely by Desperation in Death by JD Robb. Both surprised me with their (very different) excellence. I want to read both again.

Started A Night in the Lonesome October, the first of my Spooktober reads. Although it is a reread, this being the third year I’ve read it in October, I’m having trouble staying on schedule of only one chapter a day.

>199 Storeetllr: Nice stats!

>198 PaulCranswick: Oh, hey, Paul! I missed you up there - looks like we posted at the same time.

Yes, I like to think pro plumbers (and electricians) can be trusted, but they aren’t infallible. Still, that sounds like negligence.

>201 figsfromthistle: Thanks, Anita!

>194 msf59: Oh, no! How did I miss your post? So sorry, Mark.

Thanks for your kind words about the painting. My daughter seems to like it. I want to paint Ruby, but I swear she changes daily, so, by the time I find a photo I want to paint, she’s already different.

*smoochiesmoochsmooch*

Feel better soon, cold-stricken one.

Sorry to hear you are under the weather, Mary. I hope you recover quickly so you can help with those precious grandkids.

Thanks, Richard snd Mark. Unfortunately, this damn cold is still hanging on. Saw the doctor, and she agreed it’s a nasty cold, but nothing else. On top of that, I’m in a book slump, which may be even worse. Rereading the wonderful A Night in the Lonesome October, but trying not to rush it. Nothing else appeals.

Hi Mary. My head cold is mostly gone but the cough lingers. I figure it's now settled in the asthma centre of my chest. The puffer helps somewhat but is sure is annoying, isn't it? Glad you saw the doctor, though.

And I can commiserate about the reading slump. It's not so much that I'm not reading; I am but I keep flitting....

>207 Storeetllr: Cold-begone *whammy*!

>208 jessibud2: Thanks, Shelley. Cold’s almost gone; there’s just a bit of lung congestion left. The reading slump is what’s really bothering me. I’ve started three or 4 books, read anywhere from 1/3-1/2, and stopped for lack of interest in picking them up again. That almost never happens to me. I also haven’t been painting much. I have been doing puzzles, tho, so all isn’t lost.

>209 richardderus: Thanks, Richard. Your whammy worked. Eventually. 😘

Has anyone else done the Halloween Hunt? It was fun. I managed to get 10 of the 15 without help, but those last 5 almost did me in until I got a hint. Check it out if you like literary puzzles!

https://www.librarything.com/hunt.php?y=2022&m=10

>211 Storeetllr: I did it as soon as I learned about it - I Googled to get to 14 answers which is OK by my rules for me, but had to go to hints to get 14 - I don't rhyme those two words.

>211 Storeetllr: Hi Mary, I have done the Halloween Quiz and found most of the answers on my own, but #3 drove me crazy and I needed help for that one. I think I am too old for some of the books that they call childhood classics - to me they still seem new!

I have been suffering from a small book slump myself. I just don't really feel like reading anything that I pick up. I've been pushing through but my numbers are down and this is the time of year when I am trying to finish off all my various challenges! I am about to switch to a bunch of creepy Halloween reads - maybe they will hold my interest.

Dropping in to say hello! Hope you are feeling better.

>212 quondame: Three that I had the most trouble with were 3, 12 and 14. I too consider googling just fine. You have to puzzle out what to google, after all.

>213 DeltaQueen50: I’m sorry you’re in a slump too. I hope yours ends soon. I don’t know if mine’s ended, but a book I’ve been looking forward to dropped yesterday, and I snagged a copy from the library, so I’m now happily reading it. I hope that continues once I finish the book.

Hint 3 was tough for me too. Classic means, like, Poe or LeFanu. I hadn’t even heard of the one hinted at. Lordy, I’m old!!!

>214 figsfromthistle: Hi, Anita! So nice to “see” you! Yes, I’m much better, thanks, though I’ve got a lingering cough. I’ll try to get by your thread, see what you’ve been up to lately.

Happy Wednesday, Mary. Just checking in. How are those books treating you? Do you still have feeders set up? Just curious.

Come visit...I posted pictures.

*smooch*

Hi, Mark! Happy Wednesday to you too! No, no feeders this year. First, a rat got into the plastic bin I stored seed in. Then there’s the avian flu, which is a thing here in NY. I know songbirds aren’t as much at risk, but we have a lot of water birds in my area.

>215 Storeetllr: 3 took me a lot of googling. 12 seemed to fall out straightforwardly, but 1 took a bit of search and re-search.

Dang, a reading slump on top of a cold. Sorry you're having a double whammy, Mary. I hope both are over and done with soon. You probably don't want to expose Rowan and Ruby so there goes your grandkid fix until the sniffles leave. Do birds get colds? Hopefully you can snuggle with Nickle in the meantime.

>221 quondame: Searching is half the fun!

>222 Donna828: Thanks, Donna. I'm just about over the cold, just a bit of congestion, but it could be from the bird dust or an allergy, both of which make me cough. I may never know.

I spent the morning with Rowan yesterday while my daughter took Ruby to a school fundraiser at an outdoor festival. He is a handful! Always on the go, always trying to climb everything, always as sweet and loving as any baby I've ever known.


Peekaboo!


Cheers!

And here's Ruby as Dorothy in her Ruby Slippers at Boo at the Zoo (Bronx Zoo's Halloween Exhibit). I didn't go; her mom took this photo.



Side note: Parrots don't get colds, per se, but they can get respiratory infections. I kept her far from my face while I was experiencing the worst of the symptoms.

Since I had to break out the old SSSLLLOOOOOOWWW laptop, which is the only way I know to add photos to my posts (I can't figure out how to do it on the phone), I'll share a couple of paintings I did recently.


Abstract, Summer Garden


Happy Autumn!

>224 Storeetllr: Ooo, pretty pretty! The abstract's my favorite, but it would be wouldn't it...me of the prayers to Saint Rothko in His Chapel.

>223 Storeetllr: *baaaawwww* Rowan is completely adorable!

Poor Nickel.

*smooch*

>225 richardderus: Thanks, Richard! I do like the abstract best too. It looks like it was easier to paint than the pumpkins, but no. I had to do a good bit of planning, exercise a lot of restraint, and work hard at the brushwork to get it the way I wanted it. And, yes, Rowan is adorable indeed! Smooches back at you!

So, I was trying to remember something from the past and went to my 2008 thread to see if I could get an answer. I did not, but reading through those old posts were a hoot! Turns out, I read some outstanding books that year, and I realized for some of them that I meant to read sequels or next books in the series or books by the same author but never did, so I've got that to look forward to. The post that I enjoyed most was a lambasting of Alison Weir's Princes in the Tower, a so-called "history" of Richard III's reign. Balderdash! I got a kick out of the outrage I expressed at the time, and felt it anew when I read my review. Anyway, it was a lovely trip down memory lane. (Here's the link if you're interested: https://www.librarything.com/topic/26393#432458)

>226 Storeetllr: That was a severe talking-to, indeed! Author Weir's ears are still ringing I don't doubt.

>223 Storeetllr: What a fun crowd you have!

>224 Storeetllr: Lovely. Unless it said abstract I would have called it Impressionist, looks like flowers to me.

>226 Storeetllr: Royal Blood spends chapters bashing Princes in the Tower.

>227 richardderus: I hope they did. I have one of her historical fiction novels but can't stand the thought of reading it, I'm still so annoyed with her over that so-called history.

>228 quondame: They are SO much fun! Oh! It does look Impressionist, but I didn't start out to make a flower garden, which is why I call it an abstract. I was just over to your thread and read about Royal Blood and commented on it that I didn't blame him for bashing Princes. lol

Happy Saturday, Mary. Hooray for Rowan, Ruby & Nickel! Also love your artwork. Life is good, right?

Saturday/Sunday orisons, Mary. *smooch*

>223 Storeetllr: Aww!

>224 Storeetllr: These would make lovely note cards!

Glad to hear you’re feeling better

Hi Mary. Your paintings and photos are a visual delight! All of them!

>230 msf59: Hey, Mark! Thanks. Glad you like it. Yes, the kids are my life, and it is good! Thinking of you as you bask in the balmy breezes and warm sun of Cancun!

>231 richardderus: Hi, Richard! Hope your weekend was lovely and your week ahead happy.

>232 Copperskye: Thanks, Joanne. Actually, I’ve made cards out of them. 😊

>233 jessibud2: Thanks, Shelley. Glad you like them!

Edited to fix a typo. I’m back to using my phone, and it’s too easy to make and miss typos.

Happy Tuesday!

>235 figsfromthistle: Hi, Anita!

October Roundup

Total Books Read: 7

New books: 3
Rereads: 4

Ratings:

5 star: 3
4 star: 3
3/5 star: 1

Genres:

Horror: 5
Historical mystery: 1
Fantasy: 1

Well, it wasn't a stellar month for reading. I was in a bit of a reading slump - I just couldn't get into a number of books I started so DNFd them (for now). The books I enjoyed most were rereads. Of the new reads, I think Mariah Fredericks' A Death of No Importance was my favorite, but it won't make my top 10 reads of 2022. It has, however, gotten me into Mariah Fredericks, so that's good.

77. Sandman 3 by Neil Gaiman. 4 stars. Audio. Not my favorite volume. This one included stories that weren’t in the main arc of the Dreamlord’s story and only peripherally touched on him. One was the story of Orpheus, which was so poignant and sad I still feel depressed. Another was Morpheus and Delirium going in search of their lost brother Destruction. A number of other tertiary characters made appearances in stories, like Nuala’s brother and Lady Bast.

78. Sparrow Hill Road by Seanan McGuire. 4 stars. Audio. Reread. Loved this ghost story as much if not more the second time around. Rose Marshall aka the Phantom Prom Date, the Girl in the Green Satin Dress, and the Ghost of Sparrow Hill, is a hitchhiking ghost and psycopomp, guiding recently dead spirits of people killed on the road to where they belong in the afterlife. This tells of her life, death, and adventures in the afterlife in a series of connected vignettes. The next two books in the series are more linear. Highly recommended.

79. The Girl With All the Gifts by M. R. Carey. 5 stars. Audio. This is my 4th or 5th reread, and every time I read it again I love it more. I love how all the characters grow, how their interactions are so realistic (within the story’s world), and how natural the dialogue is. This has become one of my favorite Spooktober reads.

80. The Boy on the Bridge by M. R. Carey. 5 stars. Audio. What I wrote about Girl, goes for Boy, which is set in the same world and which takes place 20 years before the events in Girl, plus an epilogue that takes place I think 20 years after the events in Girl. Highly recommended.

81. A Death of No Importance by Mariah Fredericks 4 stars. Audio. Historical mystery set in NYC in 1910. Jane Prescott is a ladies maid to a nouveau riche family. When one of the daughters’ fiancé is murdered, and anarchists are suspected, she works to find the truth so her friend, an anarchist, isn’t blamed.

82. Archangel’s Resurrection by Nalini Singh. 3.5 stars. Audio. Not sure if it’s me and my reading slump or this particular book in the series, but the story of Alexander and Zanaya didn’t grab me like the Guild Hunter novels usually do. Perhaps part of that is the lack of human characters in the story, and very little of Elena. Part may be that I just didn’t feel a connection with Alex and Zani. The historical aspect and the tying up of some loose threads, the answers to some questions from past books, kept me reading, but this probably isn’t one I’ll reread.

83. A Night in the Lonesome October by Roger Zelazny. 5 stars. Reread. Ebook. What a delightfully fun book! I wonder, though, if Zelazny wrote it just to be able to end it with that punny nursery rhyme. Worth it.