Shrouded Memory by Krista Wagner

 

I snagged the unabridged audio version of Shrouded Memory by Krista Wagner, which is narrated by Leo Goodman, from Chirp for 99 cents. 

I'd never heard of the author before. However, based on the summary of Shrouded Memory and the 99 cent price tag, I decided to give this novel a try. I like thriller/suspense novels so I figured I'd enjoy Shrouded Memory.

Shrouded Memory was definitely not to my liking! The premise behind this novel was sound, but the execution was not. It was very boring overall with only the last two chapters having anything exciting to read about.

The leading character, Rian Field, has a traumatic experience. She was attacked by two masked men in her own home. She suffers from PTSD from this event and by a follow event that triggers her PTSD all over again two years later. 

I sympathize with Rian's circumstance, but the author essentially shows Rian having the same haunted thoughts and actions throughout much of the novel. This grows old and boring after a while. There needed to be other interesting plot developments and scenarios to keep this book more engaging for readers.

Below is the publisher's summary for Shrouded Memory by Krista Wagner from Chirp's website:

A gripping psychological thriller: Marine biologist Rian Field survives a shark attack — only to be haunted by fractured memories of masked men invading her home. As nightmares bleed into reality and a new break-in shatters her illusion of safety, she begins to suspect those closest to her. To survive, Rian must confront the past before it destroys her…

I am giving Shrouded Memory by Krista Wagner a rating of 2 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

SciManDan Science Book Club - A New Book Club For 2026 For Science Lovers!

 

Are you a lover of science and also an avid book reader? 

Then I have great news for you! Popular YouTuber, SciManDan, has created a new science based book club that starts next year in March 2026 called the SciManDan Book Club.

This will be a curated book club by SciManDan himself. Six science based books will be available for this book club in either a physical format or a digital format. The choice is yours!

There are plenty of perks that come with SciManDan's Book Club. Below are a few of the benefits:

* A thoughtfully curated science title chosen for depth and readability.
* An A6 card with personal notes, thoughts, or context about the book and a QR code to a Book Club ONLY video from Dan.
*Access to the private Book Club Discord server.

To learn more about the SciManDan Book Club, please watch the above eight minute YouTube video. Or click on the above link to read more about the SciManDan BookClub and join!

The Birthplace of the First Alphabet!

 

Without the alphabet, we wouldn't have a written language, nor books to read. I found this short video about the birthplace of the alphabet fascinating.

Bookish Quote of the Day!!

 

I've had plenty of book and reading mentors over my lifetime, BUT my mother has been the biggest influence as to me becoming the book reader I am today. 

My mom is not an avid reader of books. In fact, she can't seem to still still long enough to read full length books written for adults. She reads plenty of newspaper and magazine articles, no problem though!!

As a toddler and small child, my mom read children's books to me. This is where I learned to love books and stories. Thank you, mom, for the gift and love of reading books.

Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy

At the start of this month, I was given a strong recommendation to read Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy from a former college professor of mine with whom I'm still in touch with decades after I graduated from college. It just so happens that my former college professor, Bill, is also an avid reader, like myself. We discuss the books we read with each other when we speak periodically on the phone. 

Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy happens to be one of Bill's favorite reads this year. With that kind of recommendation, how could I resist reading this novel? I should also add that we have similar taste when it comes to reading books. So, I had no doubt that I'd enjoy reading this novel.

I immediately downloaded the unabridged audio version of Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy to my iPad and began listening to it cold... Meaning that I didn't even bother learning what the book was about before I began reading it. I simply wanted to be surprised by the storyline and plot development as it unfolded over time. 

All I can say is that Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy is magnificent!! In fact, I think it may be my favorite novel read in 2025... The Seas by Samantha Hunt and Pet by Akwaeke Emezi are very close runner ups for favorite novels read this year... And, I haven't even mentioned my favorite nonfiction books read this year!!

Okay, so where to begin? The very first chapter for Wild Dark Shore, which is very short, grabs your attention in a big way! I wanted to know what the heck was going on after reading the first chapter and where this novel was leading readers.

Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy has so much going for it. The writing is wonderful! I loved the characters, along with the character and plot development for this novel. The pacing was great for this novel. 

Additionally, there are so many layers to Wild Dark Shore. I loved the amount of depth there is to this novel. It touches upon climate change, nature, family dynamics, love, and isolation. There's plenty of mystery, intrigue, and enough plot twists and turns leaving you wanting to read more. In other words, it's a real page turner. 

I'd say that Wild Dark Shore falls equally into both the climate fiction and the thriller/mystery genres. I am not going into the plot synopsis here in my review. Read the publisher's summary below if you want to know more.

Also, if you're into audiobooks, then I highly recommend the audio version for Wild Dark Shore as it is read by multiple narrators and they do a terrific job.

Below is the publisher's summary for Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy from Chirps's website:

A family on a remote island. A mysterious woman washed ashore. A rising storm on the horizon.

Dominic Salt and his three children are caretakers of Shearwater, a tiny island not far from Antarctica. Home to the world’s largest seed bank, Shearwater was once full of researchers, but with sea levels rising, the Salts are now its final inhabitants. Until, during the worst storm the island has ever seen, a woman mysteriously washes ashore.

Isolation has taken its toll on the Salts, but as they nurse the woman, Rowan, back to strength, it begins to feel like she might just be what they need. Rowan, long accustomed to protecting herself, starts imagining a future where she could belong to someone again.

But Rowan isn’t telling the whole truth about why she set out for Shearwater. And when she discovers sabotaged radios and a freshly dug grave, she realizes Dominic is keeping his own secrets. As the storms on Shearwater gather force, they all must decide if they can trust each other enough to protect the precious seeds in their care before it’s too late―and if they can finally put the tragedies of the past behind them to create something new, together.

A novel of breathtaking twists, dizzying beauty, and ferocious love, Wild Dark Shore is about the impossible choices we make to protect the people we love, even as the world around us disappears.

I am giving Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy a rating of 5 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading! 

Merry Christmas!!

 

Wishing you the very best this holiday season has to offer! Have a happy, healthy, prosperous, and peaceful 2026. May you also be blessed with plenty of delightful books to read in the new year. I am looking forward to reading your book reviews in 2026. Did you receive any books for Christmas this year?

Happy Jolabokaflod - AKA Christmas Book Flood!

 

Jolabokaflod is my kind of bookish tradition I'd love have with my family... Sadly, most of my family members are not book readers like me. 

So what is Jolabokaflod? According to Google, it "is a beloved Icelandic Christmas tradition where new books are released in the fall, exchanged as gifts on Christmas Eve, and then spent the evening reading, often with hot chocolate and treats, stemming from WWII when paper was plentiful despite other shortages."

Do you participate in Jolabokaflod? Let me know if you do in the comment section below.

Alta Journal -California Cook Club - Lisa See

 

I love attending virtual author events! I've attended several of the monthly California Book Club virtual events over the years. I've really enjoyed attending these live events from the comfort of my own home. The authors selected for each month's California Book Club are phenomenal!

On Thursday, December 18, 2025, Lisa See was featured for December 2025. She discussed her book On Gold Mountain and about her family's history.

Great episode! I've added the video footage from the event for you to watch if interested!

Inside Agatha Christie’s Favorite Hotel That Inspired Her Books - on the Today Show

 

I fell in love with Agatha Christie's novels when I was a teenager. I've have continued to read many of her books over the years. Christie's novels have a special place in my heart.

I came across this video clip on YouTube. It discusses Agatha Christie's favorite hotel, which inspired some of her novels! This hotel even hosts murder mystery parties, which is pretty nifty too.

Top Ten Tuesday - Books I hope Santa Brings/Bookish Wishes

 

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme hosted by Jana @ That Artsy Reader Girl. Top Ten Tuesday was originally created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together.

Here's my list of top ten bookish things I want Santa Claus to bring me for Christmas this year:

1. Ivory Chapters - Subscription box!!

2. Your Paper Quest ~ A Book Subscription Box That Supports Indie Authors!

3. NovelTeas - Loose leaf literature, punny tea for book lovers!

4. Book Embosser or bookplates

5. Gift Certificate to Amazon, Chirp, World of Books, AbeBooks, or my favorite indie bookstore

6. Bookcrossing supplies

7. Bookcrossing wings

8. Magnetic bookmarks

9. Bookish themed scented candle

10. Letters by Lanternlight - Cozy mysteries through letters! 

Which things made your wishlist this year?

Bookworms Don't Sleep! Largest 24/7 Bookstore in Southeast Asia!

 

Here's another bookstore to add as a place to visit! This place looks amazing.

Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill

 

Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill is my 80th read for 2025 and the 2nd book I've read by Napoleon Hill. I actually listened to the unabridged, annotated audio version of this book, which is really well read by several narrators.

I had reservations about reading Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill after reading Napoleon Hill's Path to Purpose: 7 Steps to Living a Life that Matters last year in July. Napoleon Hill appears to be a popular self-help/personal growth writer from last century and his book, Think And Grow Rich, seems to be a classic... So, I had decided to acquire two of his books I'd found on sale via the Chirp Audiobook website. 

After reading, Napoleon Hill's Path to Purpose: 7 Steps to Living a Life that Matters, I wasn't sure that it completely resonated with me. Plus, after doing some research online about Napoleon Hill's life online, I discovered on Wikipedia that:

"Hill is a controversial figure. Accused of fraud, modern historians also doubt many of his claims, such as that he met Andrew Carnegie and that he was an attorney."

Needless to say, the above quote from Wikipedia has somewhat soured my views regarding Napoleon Hill, himself, and what he has shared inside his books. It left me wondering if Hill was just a huckster.

This month, I did decide to listen to Outwitting The Devil mainly due to the fact that I paid money to obtain this audiobook before I learned about Hill's past. Also, Outwitting The Devil is a relatively short at roughly six hours in listening length. Also, the subject matter of this book had me curious about its content. 

Outwitting The Devil is definitely better than the first book I read by Napoleon Hill last year. I enjoyed the two main narrators and the third narrator who came in periodically to read the annotated segments written by the editor of this book.

Essentially, Napoleon Hill presents his seven principles of good to help us reach our personal goals and achieve success. He does this by having an imaginary conversation with the Devil himself. We learn how the Devil uses the forces of fear, anger, lust, jealousy, procrastination, and so on to keep us from succeeding in life. 

Indoctrination from schools and churches seems to be big talking points in Hill's book. This indoctrination keeps us from succeeding in life. Thinking freely, defining are own path, and strictly adhering to our life's purpose seems to be the goal in overcoming obstacles in life.

This is just a few of the highlights of Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill. There's more to this book. Interesting presentation of ideas for sure are provided with Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill. Overall it's a middle of the road read for me. I do think it has some ideas that are still applicable for our life and times today.

Below is the publisher's summary for Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill on Amazon's website:

Bestselling author Napoleon Hill reveals the seven principles of good that allow us to triumph over obstacles . . . and find success.

Using his legendary ability to get to the root of human potential, Napoleon Hill digs deep to reveal how fear, procrastination, anger, and jealousy prevent us from realizing our personal goals. This long-suppressed parable, once considered too controversial to publish, was written by Hill in 1938 following the publication of his classic bestseller, Think and Grow Rich. Annotated and edited for a contemporary audience by Rich Dad, Poor Dad and Three Feet from Gold coauthor Sharon Lechter, this book--now available in paper--is profound, powerful, resonant, and rich with insight.

I am giving Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Joyce Carol Oates: A Body in the Service of Mind - Documentary

 

'Joyce Carol Oates: A Body in the Service of Mind' is a 2021 documentary about the life of author, Joyce Carol Oates. I finally watched this documentary this month and it is excellent! 

If you're a Joyce Carol Oates fan or love learning about authors in general, I think you'll enjoy watching this documentary too.

Checkout the official video trailer above.

I Received Twelve Paperback Books From A Bookcrossers In The Mail!!

 

I've been a member of Bookcrossing since Saturday, January 6, 2007! This means that next month marks my19th anniversary of being a Bookcrossing member. Membership is free.

I have enjoyed every minute of being a Bookcrossing member. I've attended in person Bookcrossing meet-ups to discuss and exchange books with other active Bookcrossing members. I've left books at Bookcrossing zones. I've also exchanged books with other Bookcrossers here in the USA and overseas via mail. I also participate heavily in the forums on Bookcrossing, which allows me to interact with other readers on a varieyu of topics.

Earlier this month, I received a surprise box in the mail of twelve used, paperback novels that fall into the thriller genre from a Bookcrosser here in the USA!! 

I look forward to reading some of them. Others, I will pass along right away to Little Free Libraries. It never fails to warm my heart at the generosity of Bookcrossers. In addition to receiving books over the years, I've also received tea, chocolate, and other goodies in the mail too.

There's more to Bookcrossing than what I've mentioned here in this post. I simply wanted to highlight the generosity of Bookcrossers and the joy of receiving new to me books to read.

Bookish Quote of the Day!!!

 

Reading Rates Have Been Crashing!

 

I came across an interesting video on YouTube put out by the BBC Global. It features Katty Kay interviewing John Grisham for part of the video.

It is during this video I learned that between 2003 and 2023 reading rates declined by 40%! People aren't reading as much anymore. The above finding was published in a study in August 2025 by the University of Florida.

Katty Kay and John Grisham discuss the decline of reading. Additionally, they discuss Grisham's writing process. 

Take a look at the interview in the video above!

A Killing Truth by D. V. Berkom

 

A Killing Truth by D. V. Berkom is my third read during the month of December 2025. 

I listened to the unabridged audio version of A Killing Truth, which was not so well narrated by Kristi Alsip. The narrator mispronounced a word or two and I also heard her swallow and other sounds a few times throughout this novel. So, I won't be seeking out any other books which are narrated by Kristi Alsip.

As far as the novel goes, I enjoyed it. I like thriller novels with strong leading female characters in not so traditional careers. A Killing Truth is the first novel in the 'Leine Basso Crime Thrillers' featuring female assassin, Leine Bass. I like Leine's character. She's one tough cookie and also a single mother of a twelve year old daughter. 

I enjoyed the writing and plot development for A Killing Truth. As much as I enjoyed this first novel in a series, I'm not sure if I will continue with it or not. Time will only tell.

Below is the publisher's summary for A Killing Truth by D. V. Berkom from the author's website:

They say the truth will set you free, but what if it kills you first?

Leine Basso eliminates terrorists for a living. After a routine assassination almost gets her killed, she chalks it up to a fluke. Her lover and fellow assassin, Carlos, has another idea altogether. He thinks their boss is setting them up for a fall.

When Carlos goes missing and a bombing thwarts another mission, Leine suspects the stakes are far higher than she could ever imagine, and wonders if the man in charge might have it in for her after all.

A Killing Truth is the chilling start to the award-winning Leine Basso thriller series of crime novels. If you like no-nonsense heroines, page-turning plots, and twists you won’t see coming, then you’ll love D.V. Berkom’s tension-filled series.

I am giving A Killing Truth by D. V. Berkom a rating of 4 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Bookish Quote of the Day!!

 

Banned Together Documentary

 

I recently watched a documentary called Banned Together. It's  about a group of public school students that ban together to protest removing certain books parents deem inappropriate for students under the age of eighteen.

Banned Together is excellent and documents the struggles to keep books in schools. 

In addition to seeing students speak up about their right to read freely, we also hear parents, teachers, authors, and politicians speak up about the removal of books from public schools.

I highly recommend Banned Together. It's gives a lot of information about what's going with regards to book banning in schools.

Bearly Used Bookstore in Parry Sound, Ontario!

 

Oooo, Bearly Used Bookstore in Parry Sound, Ontario looks amazing!

After watching the above YouTube video, I would love to visit Bearly Used Bookstore. Independent bookstores are the best.

Victorian Slang - Some Humor for Your Consideration!

 

As a reader, I find words to be fascinating. I especially find old slang to be quite intriguing.

Bookish Quote of the Day!!!

 

Why Reading Isn't 'Natural'

 

I accidentally discovered the above video on YouTube. As an avid reader, the title of the video is what captured my attention straight away. 

Apparently, neurotypical brains do not have the innate ability to read. From an evolutionary stand point, our brains haven't had enough time to develop a 'dedicated' reading brain according to what I learned from watching this video. 

To learn more, watch the above video. It's fairly short at nearly six minutes.

Dogland by Tommy Tomlinson

 

I love dogs and I also love watching dog shows when I find the time. With that in mind, I decided to listen to the unabridged audio version of Dogland by Tommy Tomlinson, which is a nonfiction book about dogs and dog shows like the Westminster Dog Show here in the USA. Also worth noting, Jonathan Davis does a wonderful job narrating Dogland.

I learned a lot about dogs from reading Dogland. Everything from selective breeding to the fact that even dogs can get STIs like brucellosis (a bacterial infection)! If you love learning about dogs and their history in and out of the show ring, then you may enjoy reading this book as much as I did. I also liked that this book discusses whether dogs are happy or not. Plus, there's even a discussion on the difference between show dogs and pet dogs.

Below is the publisher's summary for Dogland by Tommy Tomlinson found on the Goodreads website:

From Pulitzer Prize finalist and author of The Elephant in the Room comes the first inside account of the Westminster Dog Show—America’s oldest and most beloved dog show—following one dog on his quest to become a champion.

Tommy Tomlinson was watching a dog show on television a few years ago when he had a sudden thought: Are those dogs happy? How about pet dogs—are they happy, too? Those questions sparked a quest to venture inside the dog-show world, in search of a deeper understanding of the bond between dogs and humans that has endured for thousands of years. Dogland shares his surprising, entertaining, and unforgettable adventures.

Tomlinson spends three years on the road and goes behind the scenes at dozens of dog shows across the country, where he is licked, sniffed, or rubbed up against by dogs of nearly every size, shape, and breed. Like a real-life version of Best in Show, Dogland follows one champion show dog—a Samoyed named Striker—and his devoted entourage of breeders, handlers, and owners as he competes in the Westminster Dog Show, the oldest and most famous dog show in America. Tomlinson brings the dog-show circuit to life as he witnesses teams scrambling from town to town in search of championship points and colorful ribbons. Along the way, he also speaks to scientists who have discovered new insights into how dogs and people formed their bond—and how that bond has changed over the centuries.

Engaging, charming, and informative, Dogland is an irresistibly appealing read for pop culture followers and animal lovers alike.

I am giving Dogland by Tommy Tomlinson a rating of 4 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!

Author, Sophie Kinsella Passed Away!

 

Although, I've never read any books written by author, Sophie Kinsella, it's still sad to learn she passed away from brain cancer! 

Have any of you read her 'Shopaholic' series?

New to Me Little Free Libraries in Mill Valley, California!!

 

My husband and I found two Little Free Libraries in Mill Valley, California over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Both LFLs were really cute!

During our stay in Mill Valley, we not only found two Little Free Libraries, but we also made our third visit to Muir Woods National Monument first thing in the morning on Black Friday before the crowds hit. 

There's nothing like being in nature without large crowds to soak in early morning nature vibes, hear the bird calls, smell coastal redwoods, and the sound of water flowing through a running stream to make life better! I call it forest bathing at its finest. 

The day we visited Muir Woods National Monument, it was foggy, overcast, and very brisk. The foggy weather gave us a new perspective/view of Muir Woods. I live in an urban environment, so I am grateful for visits places like Muir Woods National Monument.

Below are some photographs I took during our visit to Muir Woods National Monument.

My husband standing at the entrance to Muir Woods National Monument.

This photo (if I recall) was taken of the stream at the first bridge.

My husband standing at one of the large trees near the Bohemian Grove.

The beauty of nature! The walking paths were almost completely empty upon our arrival.

Large coastal redwoods are so gorgeous!

Are you a fan of spending time in nature? Which places do you visit in nature that fill you with joy? Lastly, have you ever visited Muir Woods National Monument? 

New to Me Little Free Library in El Sobrante, California!

My husband and I found this cute Little Free Library in El Sobrante, California on Thanksgiving day.

We were on our way to Mill Valley, California to stay at an Airbnb from Thanksgiving day through the rest of the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

This Little Free Library is in an older neighborhood. It was our second LFL find on Thanksgiving day. This was my favorite LFL find during our four day mini vacation.

New to Me Little Free Library in Pinole, California!

My husband and I found this cute Little Free Library in Pinole, California on Thanksgiving day.

We were on our way to Mill Valley, California to stay at an Airbnb from Thanksgiving day through the rest of the holiday weekend.

This LFL is in a cute residential neighborhood and offers a bench for

readers to enjoy reading books they find.

Chicano Frankenstein by Daniel A Olivas

 

I listened to the unabridged audiobook version of Chicano Frankenstein by Daniel A Olivas, which was well narrated by Thom Rivera.

Chicano Frankenstein by Daniel A Olivas was my first read for the month of December 2025. I really enjoyed listening to this novel of contemporary fiction, which is a modern retelling of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. 

Chicano Frankenstein is set in California. I loved how the author weaves current events of our times into this novel, yet still keeps many of the elements of Mary Shelley's original novel in mind... Like the fact that the leading character remains nameless throughout Chicano Frankenstein as does the leading character in Frankenstein. 

Also, the fictional POTUS in Chicano Frankenstein seems to be very much like our current POTUS in many ways.

Chicano Frankenstein combines horror, contemporary fiction, romance, and politics together. It questions social justice/social equality and what it means to be human.

Below is the publisher's summary for Chicano Frankenstein by Daniel A Olivas from the Goodreads website:

A modern retelling of the Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley classic that addresses issues of belonging and assimilation

An unnamed paralegal, brought back to life through a controversial process, maneuvers through a near-future world that both needs and resents him. As the United States president spouts anti-reanimation rhetoric and giant pharmaceutical companies rake in profits, the man falls in love with lawyer Faustina Godínez. His world expands as he meets her network of family and friends, setting him on a course to discover his first-life history, which the reanimation process erased. With elements of science fiction, horror, political satire and romance, Chicano Frankenstein confronts our nation’s bigotries and the question of what it truly means to be human.

I am giving Chicano Frankenstein by Daniel A Olivas a rating of 4 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Bookish Quote of the Day!!!

 

NEWSFLASH - People Who Read Are Harder to Control - Video

 

Yes, readers are discerning! Interesting topic for a video though. Click on the above link to watch.

Do You Annotate the Books You Read?

 

I use to annotate my textbooks a lot back in college to help me study new material and remember key concepts. 

However, I rarely annotate books I read today. If I do annotate any books I read, it's usually some sort of nonfiction book. For instance, I may annotate a diet book or other health related book, self-help books, a cookbook, or perhaps, even a language learning book, etc.

The above, short video is one of many videos on annotating books.

Let me know in the comments section below if you annotate your books while reading them.

Bill Gates Recommends Some Great Books to Read This Holiday Season

 

Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt sounds like a good book to add to my reading wishlist.

Check out the above, short video to see all of the book recommendations Bill Gates makes.

Top Ten Tuesday - Least Favorite Reads of 2025 to Date

  

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme hosted by Jana @ That Artsy Reader Girl. Top Ten Tuesday was originally created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together.

It's always a bummer to read books by authors that are not very captivating. The following books didn't hit the mark for me this year.

1. Riven Rock by T. C. Boyle

2. Earthbound by Richard Matheson

3. The Encantadas by Herman Melville

4. Jack Ruby: The Many Faces of Oswald's Assassin by Danny Fingeroth

5. Pride and Prejudice Untold Trilogy by P. O. Dixon

6. The Coffee Killer by A. J. Shaw

7. The Horoscope Writer by Ash Bishop

8. Savannah Sleuth by Alan Chaput

9. She Had Glass Eyes by C.S. Schiavone

10. We Had to Remove This Post by Hanna Bervoets

I've added links to my reviews for nine of the books listed above.

The Flip Side by Jason Walz

 

The Flip Side by Jason Walz was the last novel I read during the month of November 2025.

I received the paperback version of The Flip Side by Jason Walz for FREE through the Goodreads Giveaway program. Below is my honest, unbiased review of this young adult, graphic novel.

First off, I absolutely loved the artwork for The Flip Side. In fact, the artwork was probably my favorite thing about this book. The Flip Side is also a very quick read, which is one of the things I enjoy about graphic novels. 

The Flip Side by Jason Walz is a novel geared towards teens. The focus of The Flip Side is on the loss of one’s best friend, loneliness, fear, grief, and how one’s life can feel like it has turned upside down after the loss of one's best friend. 

The Flip Side by Jason Walz showcases how to two teens, Theo and Emma, overcome the obstacles of fear, loneliness, and grief together.

Below is the publisher's summary for The Flip Side by Jason Walz from the author's website:

This breathtaking, page-turning graphic novel is a supernatural survival story in which a grieving teen finds himself in a haunting alternate reality—the frightening embodiment of his depression.

Theo’s best friend has died, and he can’t pull himself out of his sadness—a sadness that those around him don’t seem to respect or even notice. And then something even more disconcerting happens: His town literally flips upside down and everyone disappears, except for a threatening, shape-shifting monster and a snarky teenage girl who knows her way around this flipped world. Is Theo doomed to spend the rest of his life in this scary state?

Tremendously unique and suspenseful, The Flip Side tackles grief and depression in a fascinating and affecting way.

I am giving The Flip Side by Jason Walz a rating of 4 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Oh Captain! My Captain! - Walt Whitman

I don't read a lot of poetry usually. Every so often, I will read or listen to a poetry reading. 

I recently listened to this reading of 'Oh Captain! My Captain! by Walt Whitman.

I hope you enjoy it! 

Bookish Quote of the Day!!!

 

What Ya' Readin'? with Stephen King - Interview

 

Excellent interview with Stephen King! He talks about some of his favorite reads in the short, YouTube video above. 

I even added one of the novels he mentioned (Whipple's Castle by Thomas Williams) to my ever growing reading wishlist.

Happy Thanksgiving

 

I have so many things to be grateful and thankful for!

I am grateful for my health, family, friends, home, my blog followers, and all the things I take for granted on a daily basis.

I hope your Thanksgiving holiday is filled with joy, peace, a delicious meal, and you are surrounded by those you love.

Common Sense by Thomas Paine

I listened to the unabridged audio version of Common Sense by Thomas Paine, which was nicely narrated by Malk Williams.

Common Sense is a quick listen at 2 hours, 15 minutes. Common Sense is a 47 page essay, which was first published as a pamphlet anonymously in 1776. It advocated independence from Britain.

Common Sense combines both moral and political arguments to help persuade the common people living in the US Colonies to fight for social equality. Common Sense was a sensation upon its publication, which was at the beginning of the American Revolution.

This was the first time I've read Common Sense by Thomas Paine. I enjoyed it. Common Sense stands the test of time and still holds relevance today. I enjoyed that Common Sense touches upon so many genres, such as government,  politics, history, and political philosophy.

If you're interested in earlier American history, Common Sense may be the perfect read for you!

Below is the summary for Common Sense by Thomas Paine from Chirp's website:

The explosive essay that sparked a revolution. When Common Sense hit the streets in 1776, it ignited the American colonies like never before. With bold, plain-spoken language, Thomas Paine challenged the authority of the British monarchy and made the urgent case for American independence. More than just a political argument, this short but powerful work gave everyday people the words to demand freedom—and the courage to fight for it. Radical, rebellious, and razor-sharp, Common Sense remains a landmark of political writing. Its message still resonates today: real change begins when ordinary people dare to speak truth to power.

I am giving Common Sense by Thomas Paine a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Alta Live: Ishmael Reed in Conversation with Will Hearst!!

 

Earlier this month, I attended an Alta Live virtual event featuring Ishmael Reed in conversation with Will Hearst. It was an excellent and engaging interview. Ishmael Reed has lead a very colorful life.

The primary focus of this Alta Live event was the discussion of Ishmael Reed's newest book, Blind Persistence. 

Blind Persistence was published on November 1, 2025 and is an anthology.

You can watch the above video to see the full event.

Eugene Onegin by Alexander Pushkin

 

I read Eugene Onegin by Alexander Pushkin thirty years ago for the first time in college for a Russian literature course I'd enrolled. I have a BA in Russian language and taking a elective in the form of a Russian literature was part of earning my degree.

I wasn't a huge fan of this iconic Russian classic at the time. It wasn't that I disliked Eugene Onegin when I first read it. It's just that sometimes when you're required to read something for a college course, it isn't something that one ends up truly enjoying or appreciating at the time.

So, thirty years later I decided to give Eugene Onegin by Alexander Pushkin another look with fresh eyes and a new perspective. Maybe, I thought to myself, I'd enjoy this novel more now than in my twenties.

What did I love about Eugene Onegin? It's entirely written in verse (aka poetry), which I found to be unique. Eugene Onegin covers the topics of love, regret, and the consequences of neglecting what truly matters.

Alexander Pushkin is widely considered to be Russia's greatest writer and also the founder of modern Russian literature. I also learned from Google that Alexander Pushkin is often compared to William Shakespeare. Pushkin mastered multiple genres.

Although, I enjoyed listening to the unabridged audio version of Eugene Onegin by Alexander Pushkin, I wouldn't say I loved this Russian classic novel. I'm not sure if it was due to the translation itself, as translating a novel in verse is difficult to do I would imagine. Or if it's simply due to the fact that a novel in verse isn't my thing.

Below is the summary for Eugene Onegin by Alexander Pushkin from Chirp's website:

In this timeless Russian classic, the charismatic but aloof Eugene Onegin rejects love, friendship, and opportunity in favor of cynicism and self-isolation. When he returns to his rural estate, he crosses paths with the idealistic Tatyana, who falls deeply in love with him. But Onegin’s cold dismissal of her leads to a tragic sequence of events that changes all their lives. With sharp wit and vivid characters, Eugene Onegin is a rich exploration of love, regret, and the consequences of neglecting what truly matters.

I am giving Eugene Onegin by Alexander Pushkin a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading! 

‘Outlander’ Author, Diana Gabaldon, Donates literary Archive to Texas A&M

My maternal grandmother was an avid reader like me. We often talked about books we were reading over the years. She turned me onto reading books written by Diana Gabaldon.

Yesterday, I’ve learned that Diana Gabaldon is donating her entire literary archives to Texas A & M in an article titled, ‘Outlander’ author donates literary archive to Texas A&M by Stephen Perez.

In the article, Stephen Perez wrote the following:

The “Outlander” universe, in which a time-traveling British nurse finds adventure and romance with an 18th-century Scottish warrior, is coming to Aggieland.

The best-selling book series author, Dr. Diana Gabaldon, has selected Texas A&M University’s Cushing Memorial Library and Archives as the permanent home for her literary papers, notes and memorabilia from the historical science fiction, adventure-romance series and its hit streaming adaptation.

The collection will capture the evolution of Gabaldon’s storytelling and offer a glimpse into how her 1991 debut novel “Outlander” grew into a global phenomenon spanning novels, companion works and a long-running television adaptation.

“The acquisition of a collection of this magnitude marks a pivotal moment in the growth of our Libraries’ collections,” said Julie Mosbo Ballestro, university librarian and assistant provost. “We have long admired Diana’s contributions to the field, and we are eager to integrate her work into our Science Fiction and Fantasy Research Collection that ranks among the finest in the world.”

What I didn't know, until reading the above article, is that Texas A & M has a rich science fiction tradition! Click on the link to read the full story.

The Lodger by Marie Belloc Lowndes

 

I listened to the unabridged version of The Lodger by Marie Belloc Lowndes, which is nicely narrated by Anne Hancock.

The Lodger by Marie Belloc Lowndes is a short story and a work of historical fiction set in London, England. 

Marie Belloc Lowndes is a new to me author. I was drawn to The Lodger, because it is about Jack the Ripper. I am fascinated by Jack the Ripper's true identity. Who really was Jack the Ripper? Marie Belloc Lowndes gives us a fictional look at who he might have been.

Below is the publisher's summary for The Lodger by Marie Belloc Lowndes from Chirp's website:

According to legend, in 1910, Marie Belloc Lowndes attended a London dinner party where a guest told her that his mother’s butler and cook claimed they had once rented rooms to Jack the Ripper, the notorious mass murderer. The idea for “The Lodger” was born.

Mr. and Mrs. Bunting have sunk their savings into their house with plans to let rooms. But no lodgers have materialized, and they are on the verge of penury when, one foggy night, a knock on the door brings Mr. Sleuth, an unassuming gentleman whose needs are perfectly suited to the suite of rooms the Buntings have to rent.

Gradually, relief turns into suspicion, then dread, as Mrs. Bunting notices their savior’s strange habits are not mere eccentricities. When his late-night forays seem to coincide with the lurid headlines her husband reads to her about the grisly murders in London, she slowly realizes she may be harboring a monster. And if he’s discovered, it will mean ruin for the Buntings.

This is the original 1911 short story. Jack the Ripper’s identity was never discovered but “The Lodger” offers a tantalizing possibility that has entertained and intrigued readers for more than a century.

I am giving The Lodger by Marie Belloc Lowndes a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!

We Had to Remove This Post by Hanna Bervoets

I had We Had to Remove This Post by Hanna Bervoets on my reading wishlist for quite a while. I finally read the hardback edition earlier this month. This novella is a quick read at 138 pages. I wasn't sure what I was expecting with this novella when I first started reading it. However, it most definitely packs a punch and sends a powerful message about the perils employees face while work in stressful environments.

We Had to Remove This Post highlights the impact of social media in general and the working conditions of social media content moderators, which feels like an important topic to examine. 

The fictional employees featured in We Had to Remove This Post watch videos during their shifts at a company named Hexa. During their shifts, employees decide whether the videos they watch are allowed to be posted online or are taken down due to the video's content. 

The employees view some pretty horrific things while watching these videos. Over time, the employees seem to be effected by post-traumatic stress disorder due to watching videos during their shifts. Some of the employees turn to alcohol and drug use/consumption to cope with stress caused by viewing the views, some deal with insomnia or other sleep disturbances/issues due to watching these videos, and some display other disturbing behaviors.

We Had To Remove This Post is told through the point of view of Kayleigh. Kayleigh works at Hexa and so does her girlfriend, Sigrid. The focus is on Kayleigh's time at Hexa, how working at Hexa effects her negatively, how the work effects Sigrid and their relationship, and the effects on other employees too.

I think the author does a fantastic job describing the horrors of being a social media content moderator for such a social media company! I cannot imagine watching horrific video after video after video for hour after hour after hour over weeks and months. It must wreak havoc on one's psyche.

As much as the author does a fabulous job in describing the horrors of being a social media content moderator, it was all too much. Plus, parts of this novella were boring and felt disjointed. Maybe this is because We Had to Remove This Post is a translated work?

Below is the publisher's summary for We Had to Remove This Post by Hanna Bervoets from Amazon's website:

Kayleigh needs money. That’s why she takes a job as a content moderator for a social media platform whose name she isn’t allowed to mention. Her job: reviewing offensive videos and pictures, rants and conspiracy theories, and deciding which need to be removed. It’s grueling work. Kayleigh and her colleagues spend all day watching horrors and hate on their screens, evaluating them with the platform’s ever-changing terms of service while a supervisor sits behind them, timing and scoring their assessments. Yet Kayleigh finds a group of friends, even a new love—and, somehow, the job starts to feel okay.

But when her colleagues begin to break down; when Sigrid, her new girlfriend, grows increasingly distant and fragile; when her friends start espousing the very conspiracy theories they’re meant to be evaluating; Kayleigh begins to wonder if the job may be too much for them. She’s still totally fine, though—or is she?

I am giving We Had to Remove This Post by Hanna Bervoets a rating of 2 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!