Curioussquared takes refuge in books in 2023, part 7
This is a continuation of the topic Curioussquared takes refuge in books in 2023, part 6.
Talk 75 Books Challenge for 2023
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1curioussquared
Hello everyone! I'm Natalie. I have participated in the challenge on and off over my almost 15 years (!!!) on LT, and consistently over the past several years.
I'm located in Seattle, where I live with my husband and dogs. I do most of my reading curled up on the couch with my retired racing greyhounds Otter and Kermit, or listening to audiobooks while doing chores and walking the dogs.
I read mostly fiction, with a heavy emphasis on fantasy and sci-fi, romance, YA fiction, general fiction/literature, a scattered mystery here and there, and the occasional non-fiction title.
I've been keeping track of my books read since 2008, and I have traditionally aimed for 100, but I think these days I'm usually hoping to hit 150. Last year I hit 200, which was an all-time high and surprising even to me.
Another typical reading goal for me is to prioritize books off my shelves. Last year I was slightly weighted toward library books and I'd like to shift that back this year. I have a separate thread I maintain in the ROOTs group, and in addition, I have a selection of books off my shelves I'd like to get to this year, which you can see in a post below.
Otter being handsome:
Kermit, with no control over his tongue:
Typical greyhound behavior:
I'm located in Seattle, where I live with my husband and dogs. I do most of my reading curled up on the couch with my retired racing greyhounds Otter and Kermit, or listening to audiobooks while doing chores and walking the dogs.
I read mostly fiction, with a heavy emphasis on fantasy and sci-fi, romance, YA fiction, general fiction/literature, a scattered mystery here and there, and the occasional non-fiction title.
I've been keeping track of my books read since 2008, and I have traditionally aimed for 100, but I think these days I'm usually hoping to hit 150. Last year I hit 200, which was an all-time high and surprising even to me.
Another typical reading goal for me is to prioritize books off my shelves. Last year I was slightly weighted toward library books and I'd like to shift that back this year. I have a separate thread I maintain in the ROOTs group, and in addition, I have a selection of books off my shelves I'd like to get to this year, which you can see in a post below.
Otter being handsome:
Kermit, with no control over his tongue:
Typical greyhound behavior:
2curioussquared
I had over 30 new-to-me 5-star reads in 2022. I managed to trim it down to these favorites:
84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff
Winter's Orbit by Everina Maxwell
With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo
Faithful Place by Tana French
Voyager by Diana Gabaldon
A Marvellous Light by Freya Marske
Vespertine by Margaret Rogerson
Little Thieves by Margaret Owen
Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
Cannery Row by John Steinbeck
A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus
A Closed and Common Orbit by Becky Chambers
Harrow the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir
Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands by Kate Beaton
Paladin's Grace by T. Kingfisher
Blackout/All Clear by Connie Willis
84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff
Winter's Orbit by Everina Maxwell
With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo
Faithful Place by Tana French
Voyager by Diana Gabaldon
A Marvellous Light by Freya Marske
Vespertine by Margaret Rogerson
Little Thieves by Margaret Owen
Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
Cannery Row by John Steinbeck
A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus
A Closed and Common Orbit by Becky Chambers
Harrow the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir
Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands by Kate Beaton
Paladin's Grace by T. Kingfisher
Blackout/All Clear by Connie Willis
3curioussquared
Books read in 2023:
January
1. You Have a Match by Emma Lord (off my shelf)
2. Heartstopper vol. 3 by Alice Oseman (library)
3. The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun (library)
4. A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers (off my shelf)
5. Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernieres (off my shelf)
6. The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison (off my shelf)
7. Rogue Protocol by Martha Wells (reread)
8. The Maid by Nita Prose (library)
9. The Jewel Thief by Jeannie Mobley (off my shelf)
10. Chaos on CatNet by Naomi Kritzer (off my shelf)
11. The Warrior's Apprentice by Lois McMaster Bujold (library)
12. A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood (off my shelf)
13. Heartstopper vol. 4 by Alice Oseman (library)
14. This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron (off my shelf)
15. This Wicked Fate by Kalynn Bayron (off my shelf)
16. Possession by A. S. Byatt (off my shelf)
17. Cece Rios and the Desert of Souls by Kaela Rivera (library)
18. Clockwork Boys by T. Kingfisher (library)
19. A Natural History of Dragons by Marie Brennan (off my shelf)
20. The Wonder Engine by T. Kingfisher (library)
February
21. Enna Burning by Shannon Hale (off my shelf)
22. Upright Women Wanted by Sarah Gailey (off my shelf)
23. The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling (off my shelf)
24. Record of a Spaceborn Few by Becky Chambers (off my shelf)
25. The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon (off my shelf)
26. Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson (reread)
27. Mysteries of Thorn Manor by Margaret Rogerson (off my shelf)
28. To Be Taught, If Fortunate by Becky Chambers (library)
29. The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley (off my shelf)
30. Everything For You by Chloe Liese (library)
31. The War I Finally Won by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley (library)
32. The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank (off my shelf)
33. Etta and Otto and Russell and James by Emma Hooper (off my shelf)
34. The Cloud Roads by Martha Wells (off my shelf)
35. Exit Strategy by Martha Wells (reread)
36. The Last Voyage of Poe Blythe by Ally Condie (off my shelf)
37. Queen of the Tiles by Hanna Alkaf (off my shelf)
38. Broken Harbor by Tana French (off my shelf)
39. Emerald Green by Kerstin Gier (library)
40. Garlic and the Vampire by Bree Paulsen (library)
March
41. The Voting Booth by Brandy Colbert (off my shelf)
42. Scattered Showers by Rainbow Rowell (off my shelf)
43. Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage by Haruki Murakami (off my shelf)
44. Nick and Charlie by Alice Oseman (library)
45. An Extraordinary Union by Alyssa Cole (library)
46. In Other Lands by Sarah Rees Brennan (off my shelf)
47. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus (library)
48. Othello by William Shakespeare (off my shelf)
49. All the Feels by Olivia Dade (library)
50. Healer and Witch by Nancy Werlin (library)
51. Ocean's Echo by Everina Maxwell (off my shelf)
52. Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly (off my shelf)
53. Hither, Page by Cat Sebastian (library)
54. Forest Mage by Robin Hobb (off my shelf)
55. Spare by Prince Harry (library)
January
1. You Have a Match by Emma Lord (off my shelf)
2. Heartstopper vol. 3 by Alice Oseman (library)
3. The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun (library)
4. A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers (off my shelf)
5. Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernieres (off my shelf)
6. The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison (off my shelf)
7. Rogue Protocol by Martha Wells (reread)
8. The Maid by Nita Prose (library)
9. The Jewel Thief by Jeannie Mobley (off my shelf)
10. Chaos on CatNet by Naomi Kritzer (off my shelf)
11. The Warrior's Apprentice by Lois McMaster Bujold (library)
12. A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood (off my shelf)
13. Heartstopper vol. 4 by Alice Oseman (library)
14. This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron (off my shelf)
15. This Wicked Fate by Kalynn Bayron (off my shelf)
16. Possession by A. S. Byatt (off my shelf)
17. Cece Rios and the Desert of Souls by Kaela Rivera (library)
18. Clockwork Boys by T. Kingfisher (library)
19. A Natural History of Dragons by Marie Brennan (off my shelf)
20. The Wonder Engine by T. Kingfisher (library)
February
21. Enna Burning by Shannon Hale (off my shelf)
22. Upright Women Wanted by Sarah Gailey (off my shelf)
23. The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling (off my shelf)
24. Record of a Spaceborn Few by Becky Chambers (off my shelf)
25. The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon (off my shelf)
26. Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson (reread)
27. Mysteries of Thorn Manor by Margaret Rogerson (off my shelf)
28. To Be Taught, If Fortunate by Becky Chambers (library)
29. The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley (off my shelf)
30. Everything For You by Chloe Liese (library)
31. The War I Finally Won by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley (library)
32. The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank (off my shelf)
33. Etta and Otto and Russell and James by Emma Hooper (off my shelf)
34. The Cloud Roads by Martha Wells (off my shelf)
35. Exit Strategy by Martha Wells (reread)
36. The Last Voyage of Poe Blythe by Ally Condie (off my shelf)
37. Queen of the Tiles by Hanna Alkaf (off my shelf)
38. Broken Harbor by Tana French (off my shelf)
39. Emerald Green by Kerstin Gier (library)
40. Garlic and the Vampire by Bree Paulsen (library)
March
41. The Voting Booth by Brandy Colbert (off my shelf)
42. Scattered Showers by Rainbow Rowell (off my shelf)
43. Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage by Haruki Murakami (off my shelf)
44. Nick and Charlie by Alice Oseman (library)
45. An Extraordinary Union by Alyssa Cole (library)
46. In Other Lands by Sarah Rees Brennan (off my shelf)
47. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus (library)
48. Othello by William Shakespeare (off my shelf)
49. All the Feels by Olivia Dade (library)
50. Healer and Witch by Nancy Werlin (library)
51. Ocean's Echo by Everina Maxwell (off my shelf)
52. Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly (off my shelf)
53. Hither, Page by Cat Sebastian (library)
54. Forest Mage by Robin Hobb (off my shelf)
55. Spare by Prince Harry (library)
4curioussquared
Books read in 2023:
April
56. On the Way to the Wedding by Julia Quinn (library)
57. Icebreaker by A. L. Graziadei (library)
58. The Time Garden by Edward Eager (off my shelf)
59. Drums of Autumn by Diana Gabaldon (off my shelf)
60. A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik (reread)
61. The Last Graduate by Naomi Novik (reread)
62. The Golden Enclaves by Naomi Novik (off my shelf)
63. Fugitive Telemetry by Martha Wells (reread)
64. Headlong by Michael Frayn (off my shelf)
65. A Visit from the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan (off my shelf)
66. Well Played by Jen DeLuca (library)
67. Honey & Spice by Bolu Babalola (off my shelf)
68. The Nature of Witches by Rachel Griffin (off my shelf)
69. The Care and Feeding of Waspish Widows by Olivia Waite (library)
70. The Perilous Life of Jade Yeo by Zen Cho (off my shelf)
71. The Soulmate Equation by Christina Lauren (off my shelf)
72. Bend Sinister by Vladimir Nabokov (off my shelf)
73. The Song of the Lark by Willa Cather (off my shelf)
May
74. The Heart Principle by Helen Hoang (library)
75. The Emperor of Nihon-Ja by John Flanagan (library)
76. Five Children and It by E. Nesbit (library)
77. The City of Brass by S. A. Chakraborty (off my shelf)
78. What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher (library)
79. Happy Place by Emily Henry (library)
80. The Vor Game by Lois McMaster Bujold (library)
81. Jane Austen Made Me Do It edited by Laurel Ann Nattress (off my shelf)
82. Delilah Green Doesn't Care by Ashley Herring Blake (library)
83. The Kaiju Preservation Society by John Scalzi (off my shelf)
84. We Deserve Monuments by Jas Hammonds (library)
85. All-of-a-Kind Family by Sydney Taylor (library)
86. A Restless Truth by Freya Marske (off my shelf)
87. The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter by Carson McCullers (off my shelf)
88. Take Me Home Tonight by Morgan Matson (off my shelf)
89. Well Matched by Jen DeLuca (library)
90. Sula by Toni Morrison (off my shelf)
June
91. Something Like Love by Beverly Jenkins (library)
92. The Constant Rabbit by Jasper Fforde (off my shelf)
93. The Beatryce Prophecy by Kate DiCamillo (library)
94. Jadie in Five Dimensions by Diane K. Salerni (library)
95. The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden (off my shelf)
96. In an Absent Dream by Seanen McGuire (off my shelf)
97. The Glass Hotel by Emily St. John Mandel (off my shelf)
98. Woven in Moonlight by Isabel Ibanez (off my shelf)
99. The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern (off my shelf)
100. You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty by Akwaeke Emezi (off my shelf)
101. The Martian by Andy Weir (off my shelf)
102. Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev (off my shelf)
103. The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang (library)
104. Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater (off my shelf)
105. Bravely by Maggie Stiefvater (library)
106. Queen of Urban Prophecy by Aya de Leon (library)
107. The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes (library)
108. It Takes Two to Tumble by Cat Sebastian (library)
109. The Thirteen Clocks by James Thurber (library)
110. Crown Duel by Sherwood Smith (reread)
April
56. On the Way to the Wedding by Julia Quinn (library)
57. Icebreaker by A. L. Graziadei (library)
58. The Time Garden by Edward Eager (off my shelf)
59. Drums of Autumn by Diana Gabaldon (off my shelf)
60. A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik (reread)
61. The Last Graduate by Naomi Novik (reread)
62. The Golden Enclaves by Naomi Novik (off my shelf)
63. Fugitive Telemetry by Martha Wells (reread)
64. Headlong by Michael Frayn (off my shelf)
65. A Visit from the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan (off my shelf)
66. Well Played by Jen DeLuca (library)
67. Honey & Spice by Bolu Babalola (off my shelf)
68. The Nature of Witches by Rachel Griffin (off my shelf)
69. The Care and Feeding of Waspish Widows by Olivia Waite (library)
70. The Perilous Life of Jade Yeo by Zen Cho (off my shelf)
71. The Soulmate Equation by Christina Lauren (off my shelf)
72. Bend Sinister by Vladimir Nabokov (off my shelf)
73. The Song of the Lark by Willa Cather (off my shelf)
May
74. The Heart Principle by Helen Hoang (library)
75. The Emperor of Nihon-Ja by John Flanagan (library)
76. Five Children and It by E. Nesbit (library)
77. The City of Brass by S. A. Chakraborty (off my shelf)
78. What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher (library)
79. Happy Place by Emily Henry (library)
80. The Vor Game by Lois McMaster Bujold (library)
81. Jane Austen Made Me Do It edited by Laurel Ann Nattress (off my shelf)
82. Delilah Green Doesn't Care by Ashley Herring Blake (library)
83. The Kaiju Preservation Society by John Scalzi (off my shelf)
84. We Deserve Monuments by Jas Hammonds (library)
85. All-of-a-Kind Family by Sydney Taylor (library)
86. A Restless Truth by Freya Marske (off my shelf)
87. The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter by Carson McCullers (off my shelf)
88. Take Me Home Tonight by Morgan Matson (off my shelf)
89. Well Matched by Jen DeLuca (library)
90. Sula by Toni Morrison (off my shelf)
June
91. Something Like Love by Beverly Jenkins (library)
92. The Constant Rabbit by Jasper Fforde (off my shelf)
93. The Beatryce Prophecy by Kate DiCamillo (library)
94. Jadie in Five Dimensions by Diane K. Salerni (library)
95. The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden (off my shelf)
96. In an Absent Dream by Seanen McGuire (off my shelf)
97. The Glass Hotel by Emily St. John Mandel (off my shelf)
98. Woven in Moonlight by Isabel Ibanez (off my shelf)
99. The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern (off my shelf)
100. You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty by Akwaeke Emezi (off my shelf)
101. The Martian by Andy Weir (off my shelf)
102. Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev (off my shelf)
103. The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang (library)
104. Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater (off my shelf)
105. Bravely by Maggie Stiefvater (library)
106. Queen of Urban Prophecy by Aya de Leon (library)
107. The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes (library)
108. It Takes Two to Tumble by Cat Sebastian (library)
109. The Thirteen Clocks by James Thurber (library)
110. Crown Duel by Sherwood Smith (reread)
5curioussquared
Books read in 2023:
July
111. Factory Girls by Michelle Gallen (library)
112. The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green (off my shelf)
113. Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (off my shelf)
114. Garlic and the Witch by Bree Paulsen (library)
115. A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas (library)
116. Only When It's Us by Chloe Liese (library)
117. The House With a Clock in Its Walls by John Bellairs (library)
118. The Missing of Clairdelune by Christelle Dabos (off my shelf)
119. The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri (off my shelf)
120. Remote Control by Nnedi Okorafor (off my shelf)
121. Weather Girl by Rachel Lynn Solomon (off my shelf)
122. Bad Feminist by Roxanne Gay (library)
123. Killers of a Certain Age by Deanna Raybourn (library)
124. If They Come for Us by Fatimah Asghar (library)
125. Everything Is Illuminated by Jonathan Safran Foer (off my shelf)
126. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman (off my shelf)
127. Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood (library)
128. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby van Pelt (library)
August
129. Akata Woman by Nnedi Okorafor (off my shelf)
130. The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez (library)
131. Clean Sweep by Ilona Andrews (library)
132. Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley (off my shelf)
133. The Children of Green Knowe by L. M. Boston (library)
134. Painted Devils by Margaret Owen (off my shelf)
135. Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor by Xiran Jay Zhao (library)
136. Sherwood by Meagan Spooner (off my shelf)
137. Dear Sweet Pea by Julie Murphy (library)
138. Imogen, Obviously by Becky Albertalli (library)
139. The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate (off my shelf)
140. Red, White, and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston (reread)
141. All the Weyrs of Pern by Anne McCaffrey (off my shelf)
142. A Knot in the Grain by Robin McKinley (off my shelf)
143. Lord Arthur Savile's Crime and Other Stories by Oscar Wilde (off my shelf)
144. The Three Dahlias by Katy Watson (library)
145. Built to Last by Erin Hahn (library)
146. The General in His Labyrinth by Gabriel Garcia Marquez (off my shelf)
147. The Hellion's Waltz by Olivia Waite (library)
148. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (off my shelf)
149. Love & Saffron by Kim Fay (library)
150. The Bodyguard by Katherine Center (library)
151. Long Day's Journey Into Night by Eugene O'Neill (off my shelf)
September
152. The Dragon Republic by R. F. Kuang (off my shelf)
153. Gullstruck Island by Frances Hardinge (library)
154. Thornhedge by T. Kingfisher (library)
155. Legendborn by Tracy Deonn (off my shelf)
156. Winter Counts by David Heska Wanbli Weiden (library)
157. Heart of a Dog by Mikhail Bulgakov (off my shelf)
158. Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward (off my shelf)
159. Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree (off my shelf)
160. Into the West by Mercedes Lackey (library)
161. Highly Suspicious and Unfairly Cute by Talia Hibbert (library)
162. Well Traveled by Jen DeLuca (library)
163. Seasparrow by Kristin Cashore (off my shelf)
164. Deathless Divide by Justina Ireland (library)
165. The Left-Handed Booksellers of London by Garth Nix (off my shelf)
166. Furysong by Rosaria Munda (library)
167. Tongues of Serpents by Naomi Novik (off my shelf)
168. The Girl With the Louding Voice by Abi Dare (off my shelf)
169. The Wolf and the Woodsman by Ava Reid (library)
170. Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas (off my shelf)
July
111. Factory Girls by Michelle Gallen (library)
112. The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green (off my shelf)
113. Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (off my shelf)
114. Garlic and the Witch by Bree Paulsen (library)
115. A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas (library)
116. Only When It's Us by Chloe Liese (library)
117. The House With a Clock in Its Walls by John Bellairs (library)
118. The Missing of Clairdelune by Christelle Dabos (off my shelf)
119. The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri (off my shelf)
120. Remote Control by Nnedi Okorafor (off my shelf)
121. Weather Girl by Rachel Lynn Solomon (off my shelf)
122. Bad Feminist by Roxanne Gay (library)
123. Killers of a Certain Age by Deanna Raybourn (library)
124. If They Come for Us by Fatimah Asghar (library)
125. Everything Is Illuminated by Jonathan Safran Foer (off my shelf)
126. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman (off my shelf)
127. Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood (library)
128. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby van Pelt (library)
August
129. Akata Woman by Nnedi Okorafor (off my shelf)
130. The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez (library)
131. Clean Sweep by Ilona Andrews (library)
132. Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley (off my shelf)
133. The Children of Green Knowe by L. M. Boston (library)
134. Painted Devils by Margaret Owen (off my shelf)
135. Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor by Xiran Jay Zhao (library)
136. Sherwood by Meagan Spooner (off my shelf)
137. Dear Sweet Pea by Julie Murphy (library)
138. Imogen, Obviously by Becky Albertalli (library)
139. The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate (off my shelf)
140. Red, White, and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston (reread)
141. All the Weyrs of Pern by Anne McCaffrey (off my shelf)
142. A Knot in the Grain by Robin McKinley (off my shelf)
143. Lord Arthur Savile's Crime and Other Stories by Oscar Wilde (off my shelf)
144. The Three Dahlias by Katy Watson (library)
145. Built to Last by Erin Hahn (library)
146. The General in His Labyrinth by Gabriel Garcia Marquez (off my shelf)
147. The Hellion's Waltz by Olivia Waite (library)
148. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (off my shelf)
149. Love & Saffron by Kim Fay (library)
150. The Bodyguard by Katherine Center (library)
151. Long Day's Journey Into Night by Eugene O'Neill (off my shelf)
September
152. The Dragon Republic by R. F. Kuang (off my shelf)
153. Gullstruck Island by Frances Hardinge (library)
154. Thornhedge by T. Kingfisher (library)
155. Legendborn by Tracy Deonn (off my shelf)
156. Winter Counts by David Heska Wanbli Weiden (library)
157. Heart of a Dog by Mikhail Bulgakov (off my shelf)
158. Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward (off my shelf)
159. Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree (off my shelf)
160. Into the West by Mercedes Lackey (library)
161. Highly Suspicious and Unfairly Cute by Talia Hibbert (library)
162. Well Traveled by Jen DeLuca (library)
163. Seasparrow by Kristin Cashore (off my shelf)
164. Deathless Divide by Justina Ireland (library)
165. The Left-Handed Booksellers of London by Garth Nix (off my shelf)
166. Furysong by Rosaria Munda (library)
167. Tongues of Serpents by Naomi Novik (off my shelf)
168. The Girl With the Louding Voice by Abi Dare (off my shelf)
169. The Wolf and the Woodsman by Ava Reid (library)
170. Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas (off my shelf)
6ronincats
Happy New Thread! Did you see that there's a new Paladin book by Kingfisher out this month? Paladin's Faith--I bought it for my Kindle but haven't gotten to it yet.
7curioussquared
Books read in 2023:
October
171. The Witch Is Back by Sophie H. Morgan (library)
172. In the Company of Witches by Auralee Wallace (library)
173. Network Effect by Martha Wells (reread)
174. Hard Times by Charles Dickens (off my shelf)
175. Rebel Sisters by Tochi Onyebuchi (off my shelf)
176. The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic by Breanne Randall (off my shelf)
177. Ruby Spencer's Whisky Year by Rochelle Bilow (library)
178. Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher (off my shelf)
179. The Guest List by Lucy Foley (library)
180. Enchanted to Meet You by Meg Cabot (library)
181. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna (off my shelf)
182. A Really Bad Idea by Jeannine Collette (library)
183. The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy by Megan Bannen (off my shelf)
184. The Library of Shadows by Rachel Moore (library)
185. You, Again by Kate Goldbeck (library)
186. The Witches of Moonshyne Manor by Bianca Marais (library)
November
187. We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson (off my shelf)
188. Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo (off my shelf)
189. Swordheart by T. Kingfisher (library)
190. Spells for Lost Things by Jenna Evans Welch (library)
191. When the Tiger Came Down the Mountain by Nghi Vo (library)
192. The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake (off my shelf)
193. The Duchess Deal by Tessa Dare (library)
194. Tuesdays at the Castle by Jessica Day George (off my shelf)
195. Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood (library)
196. Georgie, All Along by Kate Clayborn (library)
197. One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig (off my shelf)
198. Witch of Wild Things by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland (library)
199. Nona the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir (off my shelf)
200. Proper Scoundrels by Allie Theirin (library)
201. System Collapse by Martha Wells (off my shelf)
202. Better Than Fiction by Alexa Martin (library)
203. The Wake-Up Call by Beth O'Leary (library)
204. Icebreaker by Hannah Grace (library)
205. Small Town, Big Magic by Hazel Beck (off my shelf)
206. Lancelot by Walker Percy (off my shelf)
207. Into the Riverlands by Nghi Vo (library)
208. Any Duchess Will Do by Tessa Dare (library)
209. Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell (off my shelf)
210. The Widow of Rose House by Diana Biller (off my shelf)
211. Forget Me Not by Julie Soto (library)
212. Let's Get Quizzical by Kelly Ohlert (library)
213. The Galaxy, and the Ground Within by Becky Chambers (off my shelf)
214. The Bride Test by Helen Hoang (library)
December
215. This Rough Magic by Mary Stewart (off my shelf)
216. Seven Days in June by Tia Williams (off my shelf)
217. Paladin's Faith by T. Kingfisher (off my shelf)
218. Thank You for Listening by Julia Whelan (library)
219. The Governess Game by Tessa Dare (library)
220. The Hands of the Emperor by Victoria Goddard (off my shelf)
221. Year of the Reaper by Makiia Lucier (library)
222. The Wallflower Wager by Tessa Dare (library)
223. Cetaganda by Lois McMaster Bujold (library)
224. Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson (library)
225. The Mirror and the Light by Hilary Mantel (off my shelf)
226. Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan (library)
227. Mammoths at the Gates by Nghi Vo (library)
October
171. The Witch Is Back by Sophie H. Morgan (library)
172. In the Company of Witches by Auralee Wallace (library)
173. Network Effect by Martha Wells (reread)
174. Hard Times by Charles Dickens (off my shelf)
175. Rebel Sisters by Tochi Onyebuchi (off my shelf)
176. The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic by Breanne Randall (off my shelf)
177. Ruby Spencer's Whisky Year by Rochelle Bilow (library)
178. Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher (off my shelf)
179. The Guest List by Lucy Foley (library)
180. Enchanted to Meet You by Meg Cabot (library)
181. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna (off my shelf)
182. A Really Bad Idea by Jeannine Collette (library)
183. The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy by Megan Bannen (off my shelf)
184. The Library of Shadows by Rachel Moore (library)
185. You, Again by Kate Goldbeck (library)
186. The Witches of Moonshyne Manor by Bianca Marais (library)
November
187. We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson (off my shelf)
188. Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo (off my shelf)
189. Swordheart by T. Kingfisher (library)
190. Spells for Lost Things by Jenna Evans Welch (library)
191. When the Tiger Came Down the Mountain by Nghi Vo (library)
192. The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake (off my shelf)
193. The Duchess Deal by Tessa Dare (library)
194. Tuesdays at the Castle by Jessica Day George (off my shelf)
195. Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood (library)
196. Georgie, All Along by Kate Clayborn (library)
197. One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig (off my shelf)
198. Witch of Wild Things by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland (library)
199. Nona the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir (off my shelf)
200. Proper Scoundrels by Allie Theirin (library)
201. System Collapse by Martha Wells (off my shelf)
202. Better Than Fiction by Alexa Martin (library)
203. The Wake-Up Call by Beth O'Leary (library)
204. Icebreaker by Hannah Grace (library)
205. Small Town, Big Magic by Hazel Beck (off my shelf)
206. Lancelot by Walker Percy (off my shelf)
207. Into the Riverlands by Nghi Vo (library)
208. Any Duchess Will Do by Tessa Dare (library)
209. Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell (off my shelf)
210. The Widow of Rose House by Diana Biller (off my shelf)
211. Forget Me Not by Julie Soto (library)
212. Let's Get Quizzical by Kelly Ohlert (library)
213. The Galaxy, and the Ground Within by Becky Chambers (off my shelf)
214. The Bride Test by Helen Hoang (library)
December
215. This Rough Magic by Mary Stewart (off my shelf)
216. Seven Days in June by Tia Williams (off my shelf)
217. Paladin's Faith by T. Kingfisher (off my shelf)
218. Thank You for Listening by Julia Whelan (library)
219. The Governess Game by Tessa Dare (library)
220. The Hands of the Emperor by Victoria Goddard (off my shelf)
221. Year of the Reaper by Makiia Lucier (library)
222. The Wallflower Wager by Tessa Dare (library)
223. Cetaganda by Lois McMaster Bujold (library)
224. Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson (library)
225. The Mirror and the Light by Hilary Mantel (off my shelf)
226. Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan (library)
227. Mammoths at the Gates by Nghi Vo (library)
8curioussquared
Last year, I identified a list of 61 books I own I wanted to get to in 2022, and I made it to 51 of them. This year, I'm being slightly less restrictive and still picking about ~40 books I want to read this year, but in some specific categories.
The first column on the left here is a stack of series continuations and sequels I own that I'd like to get to this year. From the top of the stack to the bottom, they are:
1. All the Weyrs of Pern by Anne McCaffrey
2. Drums of Autumn by Diana Gabaldon
3. The Time Garden by Edward Eager
4. The Dragon Republic by R. F. Kuang
5. The Missing of Clairdelune by Christelle Dabos
6. The Golden Enclaves by Naomi Novik
7. A Restless Truth by Freya Marske
8. Seasparrow by Kristin Cashore
9. Ocean's Echo by Everina Maxwell
10. Akata Woman by Nnedi Okorafor
11. Nona the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir
12. Rebel Sisters by Tochi Onyebuchi
13. Chaos on CatNet by Naomi Kritzer
14. Broken Harbor by Tana French
15. Forest Mage by Robin Hobb
16. The Mirror and the Light by Hilary Mantel
And not pictured because I have them on my Kindle or forgot to include them in the photo and am too lazy to take a new picture:
17. Tongues of Serpents by Naomi Novik
18. Enna Burning by Shannon Hale
19. In an Absent Dream by Seanan McGuire
20. Record of a Spaceborn Few by Becky Chambers
The second column on the right are books I've owned for a while (some as far back as 15 years or so!) that it's high time I get to. In order from top to bottom:
21. The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
22. Headlong by Michael Frayn
23. Sula by Toni Morrison
24. Possession by A. S. Byatt
25. Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage by Haruki Murakami
26. The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter by Carson McCullers
27. A Visit from the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan
28. A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood
29. Long Day's Journey into Night by Eugene O'Neill
30. Sing Unburied Sing by Jesmyn Ward
The final 10 books are books off my Kindle. I tend to neglect these owned digital books in favor of physical books, so I wanted to prioritize some this year.
31. Upright Women Wanted by Sarah Gailey
32. The Nature of Witches by Rachel Griffin
33. The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
34. A Natural History of Dragons by Marie Brennan
35. The Martian by Andy Weir
36. The Glass Hotel by Emily St. John Mandel
37. The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern
38. Hidden Figures by Margo Lee Shetterly
39. Woven in Moonlight by Isabel Ibanez
40. The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
DONE: 40/40 Woohoo!
The first column on the left here is a stack of series continuations and sequels I own that I'd like to get to this year. From the top of the stack to the bottom, they are:
And not pictured because I have them on my Kindle or forgot to include them in the photo and am too lazy to take a new picture:
The second column on the right are books I've owned for a while (some as far back as 15 years or so!) that it's high time I get to. In order from top to bottom:
The final 10 books are books off my Kindle. I tend to neglect these owned digital books in favor of physical books, so I wanted to prioritize some this year.
DONE: 40/40 Woohoo!
9curioussquared
Thread is open for business! Reviews and report from my trip to Japan coming soon.
>6 ronincats: You were a little early, Roni, but welcome and good to see you nonetheless! :) My preorder of Paladin's Faith came while I was on my trip and I downloaded it and read it on the plane home :D I love the paladins so much.
>6 ronincats: You were a little early, Roni, but welcome and good to see you nonetheless! :) My preorder of Paladin's Faith came while I was on my trip and I downloaded it and read it on the plane home :D I love the paladins so much.
12FAMeulstee
Happy new thread, Natalie!
14PaulCranswick
Happy number seven, Natalie.
Great reading year as you close in on 3x75.
Great reading year as you close in on 3x75.
15curioussquared
Thanks Katie, Foggi, Anita, Micky, and Paul!
>14 PaulCranswick: Paul, I didn't even realize how close I am to 3x75! I've already beaten my all-time record so am very pleased with the number already. Currently reading a couple of chunksters on Kindle and in print but I think I'll still hit 3x75 just with audiobooks before the end of the year even if my other reads take a few weeks. Exciting!
>14 PaulCranswick: Paul, I didn't even realize how close I am to 3x75! I've already beaten my all-time record so am very pleased with the number already. Currently reading a couple of chunksters on Kindle and in print but I think I'll still hit 3x75 just with audiobooks before the end of the year even if my other reads take a few weeks. Exciting!
16bell7
Happy new thread, Natalie! Congrats on blowing past 200 books read for a new personal record :)
17curioussquared
Happy Monday! I'm still rather jetlagged and have been battling a tension headache/migraine since I got back Saturday afternoon but am starting to get back into the groove of things. The dogs have been glued to me which is lovely :) Mostly working on unpacking, catching up on to-do's, and getting the house in order.
Currently reading: Right before my trip, I read Let's Get Quizzical and Forget Me Not. While on my trip, I finished: The Galaxy, and the Ground Within, The Bride Test, This Rough Magic, Seven Days in June, and Paladin's Faith. I also started and am still reading The Hands of the Emperor. I just wrapped up Thank You for Listening on audio, and last night I started The Mirror and the Light, the last book remaining of the 40 books listed above that I wanted to read this year :)
Currently watching: S3E5 and the beginning of S3E6 of Outlander -- that reunion! Wrapped up S2 of Loki last night with Tim and am not sure how I feel about it. Definitely didn't like it as much as S1.
Currently reading: Right before my trip, I read Let's Get Quizzical and Forget Me Not. While on my trip, I finished: The Galaxy, and the Ground Within, The Bride Test, This Rough Magic, Seven Days in June, and Paladin's Faith. I also started and am still reading The Hands of the Emperor. I just wrapped up Thank You for Listening on audio, and last night I started The Mirror and the Light, the last book remaining of the 40 books listed above that I wanted to read this year :)
Currently watching: S3E5 and the beginning of S3E6 of Outlander --
18curioussquared
>16 bell7: Thanks, Mary!
19figsfromthistle
HAppy new one!
20SandDune
>1 curioussquared: Love the dog photos!
22ocgreg34
>5 curioussquared: I read Thornhedge last month and enjoyed it. I also recommend A House with Good Bones by the same author.
23MickyFine
>17 curioussquared: Ah yes. That plot point from season 3 is why the third book remains my favourite of the series. ❤️
24curioussquared
>19 figsfromthistle: Thanks, Anita!
>20 SandDune: Thanks, Rhian!
>21 drneutron: Thanks, Jim!
>22 ocgreg34: T. Kingfisher is very quickly becoming a favorite with me, Greg. She might be my most read author this year! But I still need to get to A House with Good Bones.
>23 MickyFine: It's so good :) I think seeing the first part of this scene excerpted on TikTok was actually what spurred me to start watching the show again. (I watched S1 years ago when it came out but never watched more until this year.)
>20 SandDune: Thanks, Rhian!
>21 drneutron: Thanks, Jim!
>22 ocgreg34: T. Kingfisher is very quickly becoming a favorite with me, Greg. She might be my most read author this year! But I still need to get to A House with Good Bones.
>23 MickyFine: It's so good :) I think seeing the first part of this scene excerpted on TikTok was actually what spurred me to start watching the show again. (I watched S1 years ago when it came out but never watched more until this year.)
25curioussquared
211 books read: Forget Me Not by Julie Soto
Ama Torres's mom has been married 15+ times. It's the reason she knows weddings so well and part of what makes her a great wedding planner -- and it's also the reason she never plans to get married. Elliott Bloom is her ex -- and also one of Sacramento's best florists. As a rule, they don't work together since the breakup. When Ama somehow scores the hottest celebrity wedding of the year, she's shocked and thrilled. Weddings like this usually go to her old boss's company, not hers -- and the social media boost is sure to push her business to the next level. There's just one problem -- usually, Ama is careful to steer her clients away from Elliott Bloom, but this couple have a connection to his shop and have already secured his services. Will Ama and Elliott be able to work together long enough to pull off the wedding of the year?
This was a fun second-chance romance concept. I liked the characters and thought it was fairly well-written. 4 stars.
26curioussquared
212 books read: Let's Get Quizzical by Kelly Ohlert
Charlotte is devoted to her favorite quiz show and has been trying to get on the show for years -- and when she finally gets the call, it's perfect timing, since the prize money could help pay for her aging grandmother's medical bills. Her high school boyfriend, Eli, also needs the money -- his father is finally out of prison, and they're struggling to stay afloat and in front of the house payments. When Charlotte and Eli are partnered up on the show, they're both shocked -- and Charlotte is still angry about past grievances. But she'll have to put it behind her to win the money. As Charlotte and Eli reconnect, they reawaken their old bold and start to succeed on the show -- but their relationship will face a few more questions before they're past old problems.
If you know me you know I LOVE a trivia show, so I was onboard for this romance immediately. Unfortunately, it fell pretty flat for me. I just didn't think the writing was that great. The format of the show also bothered me somewhat. Great concept, meh execution. 3 stars.
27katiekrug
>26 curioussquared: - Well, hell. I thought that one would be right up my alley, too!
ETA: Did you do print or audio? Sometimes I am more forgiving of meh on audio...
ETA: Did you do print or audio? Sometimes I am more forgiving of meh on audio...
28curioussquared
>27 katiekrug: Same, and I almost exclusively listen to romances -- but in this case I couldn't find an audio at any of my libraries so I read it on Kindle.
29alcottacre
Just checking in on the new thread, Natalie!
30curioussquared
>29 alcottacre: Hi Stasia! Still working on catching up, but I'm around :)
31curioussquared
213 books read: The Galaxy, and the Ground Within by Becky Chambers
A mother and son run a convenience store/fuel station on an unimportant waystation planet that happens to be well-placed on one of the wormhole routes. When a disaster occurs that grounds all takeoffs, cuts external communications, and strands three visitors of different species and very different backgrounds at their fuel station, they do their best to make sure everyone is comfortable and welcomed, despite their differences.
Ugh, I think this took me so long to read because I knew I would love it and I didn't want the series to be over. So lovely and perfect. Anybody who thinks they don't like sci-fi should ready this series. Also, a great, consuming book to start and finish on a plan.
32MickyFine
>31 curioussquared: Oh nice! I haven't read this one yet and I'm glad to hear you loved it. I'll move it up the priority list for next year.
33libraryperilous
>31 curioussquared: This one was my very favorite of the series, and I especially liked that we learned more about the Akarak. Also, I loved Tupo's enthusiasm for the museum.
34curioussquared
>32 MickyFine: I hope you love it as much as I did, Micky!!
>33 libraryperilous: I'm not sure if it was my favorite, but I loved it for sure. And I loved both of those things too!!
>33 libraryperilous: I'm not sure if it was my favorite, but I loved it for sure. And I loved both of those things too!!
35curioussquared
Murderbot TV series is a go!!! Guess I'm getting Apple TV... I'm not 100% sure how I feel about Skarsgard yet but I think once I process I'll like the casting.
https://deadline.com/2023/12/alexander-skarsgard-star-murderbot-apple-chris-amp-...
https://deadline.com/2023/12/alexander-skarsgard-star-murderbot-apple-chris-amp-...
36ursula
>35 curioussquared: This is exciting news! AppleTV is the only service we have, and only because it's a bundle deal with cloud storage, etc. We don't use it much. But I'm definitely in for a Murderbot series and double in for a Skarsgard.
37curioussquared
>36 ursula: We've thought about getting AppleTV+ but have resisted because 1. we have enough services and 2. we currently have no good way to watch it on our TV -- we use a Chromecast for streaming, which AppleTV+ doesn't support, and our Samsung Smart TV predates the existence of the service so there's no compatible TV app for it. But I'll find a way for Murderbot.
When I saw Martha Wells speak in November somebody asked her if she had a dream casting for Murderbot, which she declined to answer because she noted that the series had been optioned and should it be made, she didn't want people referring to her answer to suggest she didn't like the actual actor cast. The way she talked about it sounded entirely hypothetical and like it wouldn't really happen. Sneaky lady!
When I saw Martha Wells speak in November somebody asked her if she had a dream casting for Murderbot, which she declined to answer because she noted that the series had been optioned and should it be made, she didn't want people referring to her answer to suggest she didn't like the actual actor cast. The way she talked about it sounded entirely hypothetical and like it wouldn't really happen. Sneaky lady!
38alcottacre
>31 curioussquared: I thought I had read through that entire series, but this book is not ringing any bells for me. I am planning a re-read of the series for next year, so I will definitely be getting to it in 2024. I am glad to see you enjoyed the last book so much, Natalie.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Have a wonderful weekend!
39curioussquared
214 books read: The Bride Test by Helen Hoang
Khai is on the autism spectrum and has never really had any interest in a relationship -- he's pretty sure he doesn't have feelings, anyway, so no point in trying to love someone. But Khai's family know better, so his mom takes matters into her own hands and goes to Vietnam to find him a wife. She brings back Mai, aka Esme, and sets matters into motion. Esme thinks Khai's mom is crazy, but she also knows she'd be crazy to squander this opportunity at a better life for herself, her family, and her little daughter, so she goes along with it. As the two get to know each other better, it seems like Khai's mom's plan might actually work -- but will Esme be able to convince Khai that he's not broken before she has to go home?
Another fun romance from Hoang, although I think this was my least favorite of the three books so far. 3.5 stars.
40katiekrug
I read The Kiss Quotient a few years ago and thought it was pretty good, but I haven't been drawn to any of her others.
We got AppleTV to watch 'Ted Lasso' but there is a ton of great stuff on it. We get it through our Amazon Fire Cube. But I hear you about too many streaming services. I think we are currently at about 7 that we pay for. Ridiculous.
We got AppleTV to watch 'Ted Lasso' but there is a ton of great stuff on it. We get it through our Amazon Fire Cube. But I hear you about too many streaming services. I think we are currently at about 7 that we pay for. Ridiculous.
41Ravenwoodwitch
Welcome back again, Natalie!
Looking forward to the Japan pictures. Hope you feel more like yourself soon.
And, seriously, that's an impressive total. Congrats!
Looking forward to the Japan pictures. Hope you feel more like yourself soon.
And, seriously, that's an impressive total. Congrats!
42curioussquared
>38 alcottacre: Hi Stasia! A Becky Chambers reread in 2024 sounds like a great idea :) I am planning on getting to her last book o haven't read, A Prayer for the Crown-Shy, next year.
>40 katiekrug: Yeah, Hoang isn't my favorite ever but I have generally enjoyed her books. I thought The Heart Principle was better than this one.
I want to watch Ted Lasso, but I heardthe greyhound mascot dies in season 2 and I know that would emotionally devastate Tim, lol.
>41 Ravenwoodwitch: Hi Angela! I'd like to thank audiobooks for this accomplishment, lol. Hopefully Japan pictures soon. I think my sleep is finally getting back to normal!
>40 katiekrug: Yeah, Hoang isn't my favorite ever but I have generally enjoyed her books. I thought The Heart Principle was better than this one.
I want to watch Ted Lasso, but I heard
>41 Ravenwoodwitch: Hi Angela! I'd like to thank audiobooks for this accomplishment, lol. Hopefully Japan pictures soon. I think my sleep is finally getting back to normal!
43curioussquared
It's been a few days since I checked in! It's been a fairly productive week despite the worst jetlag I've ever had, lol. I think I'm finally sleeping somewhat normally as of last night. I'm getting back into my exercise schedule and have been getting some good reading done, too. I texted the consultant I worked with at my old job today and we're going to connect soon about me potentially doing some contract work for him. I like him a lot and part-time contract work sounds ideal to me since I can be on Tim's health insurance.
My dad tested positive for COVID on Monday. He's older, so I'm of course worried, but very healthy for his age and he seems to be doing fine so far. My mom got him paxlovid and he has been resting at home. So far my mom and brother, who lives with them, are negative. I did a Costco run yesterday and dropped off some items for them.
Tonight Tim and I are going to get our Christmas tree and we'll probably get takeout and decorate. Tomorrow we are going to a holiday gathering with Tim's family and have been tasked with bringing an appetizer and a sweet treat; I think I'm going to make a baked brie and peanut butter blossoms (unless I run out of time and get something from the store instead).
Currently reading: I blazed through The Hands of the Emperor this week despite its chonkiness and am kind of obsessed. I've already started At the Feet of the Sun, but I think I need to make myself focus on The Mirror and the Light for the next week or so. After that I will have finished all my reading goals for the year and can read what I want ;) I'm still letting myself read At the Feet of the Sun during my elliptical workouts so maybe this will encourage me to extend my workout sessions 😂 Also recently finished The Governess Game and Year of the Reaper on audio and have moved on to Cetaganda.
Currently watching: Some Outlander, and Tim and I finished the latest season of What We Do in the Shadows and watched another episode of Welcome to Wrexham. I might turn on Muppet Christmas Carol tonight...
My dad tested positive for COVID on Monday. He's older, so I'm of course worried, but very healthy for his age and he seems to be doing fine so far. My mom got him paxlovid and he has been resting at home. So far my mom and brother, who lives with them, are negative. I did a Costco run yesterday and dropped off some items for them.
Tonight Tim and I are going to get our Christmas tree and we'll probably get takeout and decorate. Tomorrow we are going to a holiday gathering with Tim's family and have been tasked with bringing an appetizer and a sweet treat; I think I'm going to make a baked brie and peanut butter blossoms (unless I run out of time and get something from the store instead).
Currently reading: I blazed through The Hands of the Emperor this week despite its chonkiness and am kind of obsessed. I've already started At the Feet of the Sun, but I think I need to make myself focus on The Mirror and the Light for the next week or so. After that I will have finished all my reading goals for the year and can read what I want ;) I'm still letting myself read At the Feet of the Sun during my elliptical workouts so maybe this will encourage me to extend my workout sessions 😂 Also recently finished The Governess Game and Year of the Reaper on audio and have moved on to Cetaganda.
Currently watching: Some Outlander, and Tim and I finished the latest season of What We Do in the Shadows and watched another episode of Welcome to Wrexham. I might turn on Muppet Christmas Carol tonight...
44curioussquared
215 books read: This Rough Magic by Mary Stewart
Unsuccessful actress Lucy joins her pregnant sister Phyllida on the island of Corfu for a holiday before the rest of Phyl's family can join her. Lucy is looking forward to a quiet, restful vacation with her sister -- but Corfu has other plans for her when one of the local boys dies in an accident. Before she knows it, Lucy is involved in a mystery surrounding the house's two neighbors -- Godfrey Manning, a photographer, who reported the boy's death, and Julian Gale, the great British stage actor who disappeared from the public eye, as well as his son, Max. Lucy doesn't trust Max, and she doesn't think he trusts her, either. But she might have to find a way to get along with him to figure out what exactly is going on on this island.
This was so much fun! Thank you to Diana @libraryperilous for pushing me to read Mary Stewart and letting me know when this book was on sale. I didn't connect with Stewart's The Crystal Cave, but I instantly loved the lush setting and fabulous mystery of this novel. I look forward to reading more of Stewart's adventures. Five stars.
45libraryperilous
>44 curioussquared: Oh, yay! I'm glad you loved it!
I DNFed her Arthurian saga. Blech. The adventures are totally different, though. There are fifteen, and only one of them was an outright dud for me. My mom liked the Gothic-tinged ones the best, and I loved the island ones and the cottage ones. Speaking of which, Rose Cottage is on sale for 99 cents.
I hope your dad recovers quickly!
I DNFed her Arthurian saga. Blech. The adventures are totally different, though. There are fifteen, and only one of them was an outright dud for me. My mom liked the Gothic-tinged ones the best, and I loved the island ones and the cottage ones. Speaking of which, Rose Cottage is on sale for 99 cents.
I hope your dad recovers quickly!
46curioussquared
>45 libraryperilous: Oof, I can't stay ahead of the Kindle deals!
47Whisper1
Hi Natalie. You read quite a lot of books this year, and many wonderful ones at that! I love the photos of your dogs. They bring such joy to you! I am still tempted to bring a shetland sheep dog (puppy) into the house. But, health issues and financial constraints still nag at me telling me to be aware of limitations.
Congratulations on reading 221 books thus far this year. You are amazing!!!!
Congratulations on reading 221 books thus far this year. You are amazing!!!!
48curioussquared
216 books read: Seven Days in June by Tia Williams
To her fans, Eva Mercy is the sassy, put-together creator of Cursed, her long-running fantasy romance series featuring a sexy vampire and witch who are cursed to be sent to opposite ends of the earth each time they have sex. At home, she's mom to precocious 12-year-old Audre, which is where all of her extra energy after dealing with her chronic migraines goes. After writing, Audre, and her disability, she doesn't have the time or energy for much else. Shane Hall is an award-winning literary fiction author who recently finally got sober after years and years of trauma and addiction -- and hasn't been able to write a word ever since. He also happens to be Eva's ex -- the two spent an incredible, life-changing seven days together back in high school, and neither has been able to ever forget the other. They run in different enough circles that Eva has been able to avoid Shane, but when he unexpectedly shows up at a panel she's on, sparks fly. Are Eva and Shane finally mature enough to accept the love they've felt since they were teens?
Apparently I've been reading a lot of second-chance romances lately! This one was all over TikTok for a while and the way people talked about it plus the cover made me think it was going to be more... literary, maybe, than it was? There were aspects that were certainly much heavier than your typical romance novel, but I would categorize this as a romance novel in the end. I thought the treatment of both characters' pasts was well done, and the writing was fairly strong. I loved Audre's character and the way Shane bonded with her. Definitely a solid book even if I liked it a teeny bit less than I expected to. 4 stars.
49curioussquared
217 books read: Paladin's Faith by T. Kingfisher
Marguerite is a spy, and a very good one at that, but currently, she's rather backed into a corner as various sectors of the organization she's been working for can't agree on whether or not to kill her. After exhausting all other solutions, she decides to take the nuclear option and enlist the help of the Temple of the White Rat to hit her organization where it hurts. Normally the Rat wouldn't have any reason to help her -- but she has information about an incredible new device that has the potential to interrupt the entire economy, and getting to it before the bad guys is definitely something the Rat deals with. So Marguerite sets out with help from the Rat -- specifically, with the help of two paladins of the deceased saint of steel: Wren, a short, frumpy-looking but shockingly competent woman, and Shane, who happens to be gloriously handsome -- once they make him shave the beard. As they set out on their mission, Marguerite doesn't see how she'll ever connect with Shane, who is extremely attractive and extremely reticent. But as they get further toward their destination, Shane starts to open up -- and Marguerite realizes she might be in trouble.
I immediately preordered this when Kingfisher announced it and when it came out while I was in Japan, I painstakingly connected my Kindle to the hotel wifi to download it. That's how much I love these paladins! Kingfisher is such a delightful writer and I love an extended universe, so I was excited to see Marguerite and Shane feature in this entry (and hope we see Judith and/or Wren in the next). I didn't love this one quite as much as the first two books, but I think I liked it more than book 3. 4.5 stars.
50MickyFine
>35 curioussquared: I prefer the Murderbot in my head so I won't be adding AppleTV+ for the new adaptation. I don't picture characters in detail but Skarsgaard doesn't match my vague mental Murderbot shape. *shrug*
I hope it's enjoyable for you, though.
I hope it's enjoyable for you, though.
51curioussquared
>50 MickyFine: Totally understandable, Micky! I'm not expecting it to live up to the books, but hoping to enjoy it as something separate but related 😊 Skarsgard isn't exactly how I pictured Murderbot either, but I do think he's a great actor and I hope given the chance he can do androgyny.
52curioussquared
218 books read: Thank You for Listening by Julia Whelan
Sewanee Chester used to dream of being a famous actress, raking in cash and fame. Then she had the accident where she lost her eye. These days, she's more comfortable in a sound booth, recording audiobooks. She started out in romance under a pen name, but lately has been doing a wider variety under her real name. When Sewanee gets a request from the estate of the queen of romance, requesting she narrate her last novel in tandem with Brock McKnight, the industry's hottest and most mysterious male narrator, Sewanee isn't so sure. She told herself she was done with romance, and she doesn't really have any desire to go back. But the author asked for her by name, and Sewanee doesn't really feel like she has a choice. As she and Brock get to know each other over emails, texts, and finally phone calls, Sewanee starts to fall harder than she has in years. But after years of nothing but hiding behind her eyepatch and one-night stands, is she ready to commit herself to something like this again? What will happen when they meet?
I thought this was a fun romance! I guessed the twist early on but that didn't make it any less enjoyable. Whelan is a professional actor and narrator so has lots of insight into both industries represented in this book. I listened to the audiobook, which she narrates, and it was great. 4 stars.
53PaulCranswick
>52 curioussquared: 7 books to go in 14 days, Natalie - you'll breeze 3x75!
54curioussquared
>53 PaulCranswick: Even better, Paul, I'm still behind on reviews, so it's really only 3 more to go!
55curioussquared
219 books read: The Governess Game by Tessa Dare
Alexandra Mountbatten makes her living as a timekeeper, going to the homes of the wealthy nobility to ensure their clocks keep proper Greenwich time. But her true passion lies in astronomy, charting the stars and identifying new comets. Chase Reynaud is a notorious rake turned reluctant father to his two young wards, morbid little girls who force him to participate in daily doll funerals and have managed to systematically drive away every governess in the greater London area. When Alexandra shows up at his door, Chase doesn't give her a chance to protest that she's not a governess and engages her services. As Alexandra takes on the challenge of wrangling two strange little girls, Chase takes on the challenge of resisting the woman he invited into his home.
I am very quickly becoming a Tessa Dare stan. Her books are fun, well-written, and funny, with fantastic dialogue, great banter, and well-balanced relationships where you never feel like someone is being taken advantage of (which can be hard to do in a regency setting!). Loved this one and quickly moved onto The Wallflower Wager. I hope book 4 is released soon -- I saw Dare has been having some mental health issues since COVID and I hope she feels better soon! 4 stars.
56curioussquared
220 books read: The Hands of the Emperor by Victoria Goddard
Cliopher Mdang (Kip, to his friends and family back home) is personal secretary to his Radiancy the Emperor, and has been for many years. Not that his family understand the magnitude of his position -- personal secretary sounds important, of course, but doesn't really convey that Cliopher is actually the emperor's right-hand man and de facto second-in-command of the government. Lately, though, Cliopher has been noticing some troubling things about His Radiancy -- namely, a rather tired and drained look about him. What the emperor really needs, Cliopher thinks to himself, is a holiday. When Cliopher -- rather treasonously -- dares to suggest as such to his Radiancy, even going so far as to recommend a particularly retreat he had noted during his last visit to his island homeland, he has no idea how this small suggestion will go on to shape the course of his life, his relationship with his lord, and even the fate of the nation.
I knew this book was going to be good. I'd seen nothing but rave reviews from people I trust, and I was excited to get to it and started it on the plane back from Japan. I had no idea HOW good this would be, and just how much I would love it, especially for a book that is essentially 1,000 pages of middle-aged men practicing gentle bureaucracy. The Hands of the Emperor manages, somehow, to be simultaneously cozy and epic. It's the longest book I've read in ages, but I devoured every page and didn't want it to end (and almost immediately started the even longer sequel). Alexandra Rowland has an article about Goddard on Tor.com that describes it as a mashup of The Goblin Emperor, The West Wing, and Moana, and I think that's a pretty good comparison. I haven't been able to shut about this to my best friend since I finished it, and even though she primarily reads audiobooks, I think I've convinced her to give this one a try on Kindle 😂 Highly recommended, and I'm definitely planning on seeking out a lot more Goddard ASAP. 5 stars.
57curioussquared
221 books read: Year of the Reaper by Makiia Lucier
Cas has been presumed dead for years, since he disappeared on a journey and his land was swept by plague. Now, though, he has finally made his way back to his home, only to find it changed -- the royal family, including the new queen whose marriage ended the war between their kingdoms, are staying there until the baptism of the baby prince. Cas happens to arrive just in time to save the prince from an assassination attempt and ingratiate himself to the royal family. As Cas settles back into life at home, the plot around the royal family grows thicker, and Cas and his new friend Lina must reluctantly work together to see what they,
A solid YA fantasy -- I appreciated that it was standalone. I don't think it'll be memorable, but I enjoyed it for the most part. Any book was going to look bad coming after The Hands of the Emperor 😂 3.75 stars.
58foggidawn
>56 curioussquared: Aw, yes! It's so good!
59curioussquared
222 books read: The Wallflower Wager by Tessa Dare
Penny -- properly, Lady Penelope Campion -- has long since given up finding a husband. Instead, she takes comfort in her animals. In ALL of her animals. Penny is well known for being unable to resist a stray, and her menagerie currently includes a parrot, an otter, several kittens, a goat, a two-legged dog, and a highland steer, among others. Meanwhile, her new neighbor, Gabriel Duke, is not so enamored of her zoo. He's a self-made mad intending to sell the house once it's fixed up and shown off, so he doesn't want some mangy creatures to spoil his sale. But Gabriel finds himself drawn to Penny against his will, and when he finds out that Penny's brother has ordered her to get rid of her animals and reenter society or be forced to go home to their family estate, he agrees to help.
Tessa Dare does it again. I particularly loved the scene with the three men and the goat. Charming, swoony, and fun. 4 stars.
60curioussquared
>58 foggidawn: SO good! I'm obsessed.
61katiekrug
>55 curioussquared: - This was the first Dare I read, and I was immediately hooked. I'm so glad she hits you in the same way.
62curioussquared
Happy Monday! Currently sitting on the couch watching our new deck railing get installed. It's been a long journey but I think the finish line is finally in sight for this project. After this, we'll just need gutter installation and garage door installation.
I had a nice weekend -- fairly low-key with some decorating, baking, and lounging, plus the family gathering on Saturday night. Yesterday my best friend came over for a bit in the afternoon. This week and today I need to get myself organized for Christmas -- I need to send out our cards today, finish shopping, and start wrapping. Along the way I'll fit in some reading and cross some other stuff off the to-do list.
Currently reading: The Mirror and the Light is taking me forever. I'm only 110 pages in and I feel like I've been reading it for a month 😂 Also working through Cetaganda on audio and At the Feet of the Sun on Kindle but I can only let myself read it as my workout book or else The Mirror and the Light will never be finished by the end of the year.
Currently watching: Just Muppet Christmas Carol on Friday night :)
I had a nice weekend -- fairly low-key with some decorating, baking, and lounging, plus the family gathering on Saturday night. Yesterday my best friend came over for a bit in the afternoon. This week and today I need to get myself organized for Christmas -- I need to send out our cards today, finish shopping, and start wrapping. Along the way I'll fit in some reading and cross some other stuff off the to-do list.
Currently reading: The Mirror and the Light is taking me forever. I'm only 110 pages in and I feel like I've been reading it for a month 😂 Also working through Cetaganda on audio and At the Feet of the Sun on Kindle but I can only let myself read it as my workout book or else The Mirror and the Light will never be finished by the end of the year.
Currently watching: Just Muppet Christmas Carol on Friday night :)
63MickyFine
Yay for another lover of Tessa Dare! You still have a bunch of her back catalogue to enjoy at least. I think I'm down to only 3 or 4 books unread.
64alsvidur
Same! I have 2 books left of hers unread and I'm trying to make them last. She's so funny; she's my favorite Recency romance writer.
65curioussquared
>63 MickyFine: I'm definitely glad for the back catalogue! My friend who is also a new Dare convert is truly devouring them -- I think she's read 8 to my 4 so far so she'll be through them all soon 😂
>64 alsvidur: I totally get trying to make them last! They're just so much fun.
>64 alsvidur: I totally get trying to make them last! They're just so much fun.
66curioussquared
Happy Wednesday! I think I'm just about done with shopping, except for my in-laws, but I think we might be doing a trip with them as a present instead, so we'll see. Must consult with Tim. I also started all my wrapping but have a number of gifts arriving in the mail today and tomorrow so could only get so far. To-dos for today include laundry, tidying, and driving my best friend to the airport in a few hours.
Currently reading: Still working on The Mirror and the Light and At the Feet of the Sun and am about 25% through both. I imagine these will carry me through the end of the year, since they total about 2000 pages together. I'll be surprised if I get to another non-audiobook, but hey, who knows. Finished Cetaganda and moved on to Mistborn on audio. It's Oops! All Chunksters time over here.
Currently watching: Lots of Outlander S3 while finishing Christmas cards and wrapping yesterday.Jamie and Claire just reunited on Saint Domingue 😍
Currently reading: Still working on The Mirror and the Light and At the Feet of the Sun and am about 25% through both. I imagine these will carry me through the end of the year, since they total about 2000 pages together. I'll be surprised if I get to another non-audiobook, but hey, who knows. Finished Cetaganda and moved on to Mistborn on audio. It's Oops! All Chunksters time over here.
Currently watching: Lots of Outlander S3 while finishing Christmas cards and wrapping yesterday.
67curioussquared
223 books read: Cetaganda by Lois McMaster Bujold
Miles Vorkosigan is back and this time he's been sent to the planet of Cetaganda with his cousin Ivan to pay respects to the recently deceased Cetagandan empress. But as soon as they arrive, their pod is boarded by a strange person in disguise, armed with a nerve disruptor, who leaves behind a strange object before Miles and Ivan are able to wrestle him away. Soon, Miles is embroiled in a plot he doesn't understand, trying to navigate the threats against him as well as the strange Cetagandan culture.
More fun with Miles; I'm still enjoying this series quite a bit. 3.75 stars.
68figsfromthistle
>66 curioussquared: Happy Thursday!
Yay! For being done with your shopping. Have fun wrapping :)
>56 curioussquared: I will out this on my list. What a great review!
Yay! For being done with your shopping. Have fun wrapping :)
>56 curioussquared: I will out this on my list. What a great review!
69bell7
>56 curioussquared: Yay, so glad to see you enjoyed it! I have yet to read the immediate sequel, as you know I've been exploring all the other series, but I'll look forward to seeing what you think as you read through Goddard's books.
70drneutron
Just passing the word... The 2024 group is up!
https://www.librarything.com/ngroups/24188/75-Books-Challenge-for-2024
https://www.librarything.com/ngroups/24188/75-Books-Challenge-for-2024
71curioussquared
>68 figsfromthistle: Good to see you, Anita! I hope you enjoy The Hands of the Emperor.
>69 bell7: Apparently I wasn't ready to be done with Cliopher even after 1,000 pages, lol. I'm really excited to read her other stuff too!
>70 drneutron: Yay! Thanks, Jim. Usually I don't set up until the New Year but I might see if I have time today or tomorrow.
>69 bell7: Apparently I wasn't ready to be done with Cliopher even after 1,000 pages, lol. I'm really excited to read her other stuff too!
>70 drneutron: Yay! Thanks, Jim. Usually I don't set up until the New Year but I might see if I have time today or tomorrow.
72PlatinumWarlock
Hi Natalie! Just popping in to wish you a happy holiday with lots of relaxation and reading. :)
74PaulCranswick
Thinking about you during the festive season, Natalie
76curioussquared
>72 PlatinumWarlock: >73 ronincats: >74 PaulCranswick: >75 AMQS: Thanks Lavinia, Roni, Paul, and Anne! I hope you had lovely holidays.
77curioussquared
Happy boxing day! I had a lovely holiday and hope everyone else did, too. We were with my extended family for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and are going to do a gathering with Tim's parents and sister and her partner tomorrow night.
The one unfortunate negative was that my dad got a bad case of rebound COVID on the 23rd -- he originally tested positive on the 10th, was feeling much better, then started feeling a lot sicker and feverish again. He ended up in urgent care on Christmas Eve but is doing much better now. Unfortunately, my mom, who has been caring for him and was still negative this whole time, finally tested positive on Christmas day, so we didn't get to see them for the holiday and they won't be able to come on our extended family trip to CA for a cousin's wedding on the 29th. They seem to be doing OK now, though, so I'm glad for that.
One of my friends from college was in town tonight with her husband and 8-month-old on their way to Alaska to see the northern lights, so we took them out to dinner. I hadn't seen them since their wedding (right after ours in 2021) so it was nice to catch up.
Reading has been slowww. I've made great progress in The Mirror and the Light but basically stopped reading At the Feet of the Sun so I can focus on The Mirror and the Light since it's the last book in my list to read this year at the top of my thread. I'm 82% in and my Kindle says I should be done in 3-4 hours. Almost there! I did wrap up Mistborn today and moved on to Nora Goes Off Script on audio.
Watching has also been slow but I completed my annual holiday watches of Love Actually and The Holiday.
I just realized I never posted any pictures from Japan. I'm going to try to do a few now and then set up my 2024 thread. We'll be in California from the 28th to the 1st and tomorrow will be crazy so this might be my only chance!
The one unfortunate negative was that my dad got a bad case of rebound COVID on the 23rd -- he originally tested positive on the 10th, was feeling much better, then started feeling a lot sicker and feverish again. He ended up in urgent care on Christmas Eve but is doing much better now. Unfortunately, my mom, who has been caring for him and was still negative this whole time, finally tested positive on Christmas day, so we didn't get to see them for the holiday and they won't be able to come on our extended family trip to CA for a cousin's wedding on the 29th. They seem to be doing OK now, though, so I'm glad for that.
One of my friends from college was in town tonight with her husband and 8-month-old on their way to Alaska to see the northern lights, so we took them out to dinner. I hadn't seen them since their wedding (right after ours in 2021) so it was nice to catch up.
Reading has been slowww. I've made great progress in The Mirror and the Light but basically stopped reading At the Feet of the Sun so I can focus on The Mirror and the Light since it's the last book in my list to read this year at the top of my thread. I'm 82% in and my Kindle says I should be done in 3-4 hours. Almost there! I did wrap up Mistborn today and moved on to Nora Goes Off Script on audio.
Watching has also been slow but I completed my annual holiday watches of Love Actually and The Holiday.
I just realized I never posted any pictures from Japan. I'm going to try to do a few now and then set up my 2024 thread. We'll be in California from the 28th to the 1st and tomorrow will be crazy so this might be my only chance!
78curioussquared
As promised, a quick selection of Japan photos!
79curioussquared
Bonus content: Merry Christmas from Otter and Kermit :)
80katiekrug
Love the Japan photos but love Kermit and Otter phtos even more :D
Sorry you had a somewhat stressful holiday with your folks being sick, but good to hear they are doing better. Enjoy your weekend away!
Sorry you had a somewhat stressful holiday with your folks being sick, but good to hear they are doing better. Enjoy your weekend away!
81bell7
Sorry to hear your parents got sick over Christmas, but glad they're on the mend.
Your photos from Japan are fantastic, and love the Kermit and Otter photos to!
Your photos from Japan are fantastic, and love the Kermit and Otter photos to!
82norabelle414
I'm sorry your parents are sick!
Looks like you had a great time in Japan! The capybaras are so cute! What was your favorite thing you saw and your favorite thing you ate?
Looks like you had a great time in Japan! The capybaras are so cute! What was your favorite thing you saw and your favorite thing you ate?
83humouress
Just realised I never made it over to this thread. Sorry to hear about your parents. I'm glad they're on the mend. Gorgeous selection of photos from your holiday - and, of course, lovely photos of the boys. Is Kermit(?) one of those odd humans who can triple curl their tongues?
Bringing you season's greetings from Jasper and me.
Bringing you season's greetings from Jasper and me.
84curioussquared
>80 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie! It should be a crazy whirlwind but fun trip 😊 I'm anticipating at least two late-night parties with our Bolivian cousins for the wedding and New Year's.
>81 bell7: Thanks, Mary!
>82 norabelle414: Thanks, Nora! The capybaras were definitely up there on the favorite things I saw list 😊 I also loved the sightseeing around Mt. Fuji -- really gorgeous area. And I loved the quieter feel and old Japan style of Kyoto. Favorite thing I ate is HARD -- pretty much all of the food was fantastic. We had an incredible sushi meal -- we have good sushi in Seattle, but this was just a whole different caliber. Also had amazing ramen, soba, katsu... It's so hard to choose! And a ton of delicious soft serve -- this country loooves soft serve.
>83 humouress: Thanks, Nina! I think that was just a lucky shot of Kermit -- he had just stuck his tongue out and was drawing it back in, and I managed to catch it in that configuration while it was moving 😂 I love festive Jasper!! What did you have to give him so he would wear the hat? 😉
>81 bell7: Thanks, Mary!
>82 norabelle414: Thanks, Nora! The capybaras were definitely up there on the favorite things I saw list 😊 I also loved the sightseeing around Mt. Fuji -- really gorgeous area. And I loved the quieter feel and old Japan style of Kyoto. Favorite thing I ate is HARD -- pretty much all of the food was fantastic. We had an incredible sushi meal -- we have good sushi in Seattle, but this was just a whole different caliber. Also had amazing ramen, soba, katsu... It's so hard to choose! And a ton of delicious soft serve -- this country loooves soft serve.
>83 humouress: Thanks, Nina! I think that was just a lucky shot of Kermit -- he had just stuck his tongue out and was drawing it back in, and I managed to catch it in that configuration while it was moving 😂 I love festive Jasper!! What did you have to give him so he would wear the hat? 😉
87PlatinumWarlock
What an amazing trip that must have been!
88humouress
>84 curioussquared: I intended to give him something after taking the photo but his treats have been transferred to the storeroom outside and it was pouring with rain so I couldn't (we're still ironing out the rough edges of our renovation). That was the second attempt; the first time I had firelion holding him but after he left, I put the hat away and told Jasper he wasn't to eat it in revenge. He got so excited he ran round and jumped on the sofa - which he's most definitely not allowed to do.
This was a few days after that. I put the hat on his head and held it there while I was reaching for the phone and then I quickly stepped back and took the photo. I only got the one chance before he tried to attack the hat.
This was a few days after that. I put the hat on his head and held it there while I was reaching for the phone and then I quickly stepped back and took the photo. I only got the one chance before he tried to attack the hat.
91Ravenwoodwitch
>78 curioussquared: I'm not sure what I'm more jealous of; the beautiful scenery, the delicious food, or the adorable Cappys that you got to pet.
But seriously, what an amazing trip!
Still, Merry Christmas! (late). Sorry your folks got sick for the holidays that really sucks. Hope New Years works out better for you and your family!
But seriously, what an amazing trip!
Still, Merry Christmas! (late). Sorry your folks got sick for the holidays that really sucks. Hope New Years works out better for you and your family!
92ursula
NO! WHAT?!!! I'm sorry, I hit the capybaras and then scrolled past everything else to come down here and scream. You are living my dream. Were they perfect?
93curioussquared
>85 alsvidur: Hi Emilie! This was at a capybara cafe in Tokyo. I really wanted to go to the capybara onsen at Izu Shaboten zoo, but it was too far of a trip.
>86 AMQS: Thanks, Anne! Good to see you!
>87 PlatinumWarlock: It was fantastic, Lavinia!
>88 humouress: Lol!! I love the process. It turned out really well for one take!!
>89 Berly: Thanks Kim! The wedding was great.
>90 MickyFine: Thanks Micky! It was exhausting but a lot of fun :)
>91 Ravenwoodwitch: Thanks Angela! New Year's eve was a lot of fun but now that we're home Tim seems to be coming down with something...
>92 ursula: They were SO cute. It was my dream, too. Very very food motivated but willing to hang out with you. I'm very glad we made time to meet them :)
>86 AMQS: Thanks, Anne! Good to see you!
>87 PlatinumWarlock: It was fantastic, Lavinia!
>88 humouress: Lol!! I love the process. It turned out really well for one take!!
>89 Berly: Thanks Kim! The wedding was great.
>90 MickyFine: Thanks Micky! It was exhausting but a lot of fun :)
>91 Ravenwoodwitch: Thanks Angela! New Year's eve was a lot of fun but now that we're home Tim seems to be coming down with something...
>92 ursula: They were SO cute. It was my dream, too. Very very food motivated but willing to hang out with you. I'm very glad we made time to meet them :)
94curioussquared
Happy new year, all! I'm back from my trip and recovering. I'm going to finish up my final reviews of 2023 on this thread and then move over to my new thread for good.
95curioussquared
224 books read: Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson
Vin is a skaa, the non-noble population, an orphan working as part of a group of thieves. She's good at eking out survival, even though she doesn't look like she has much to offer -- her "luck," as she calls it, helps, allowing her to very slightly manipulate the emotions of those around her. When a job goes wrong, Vin's life is changed when her group is broken up and instead, she's snagged by the mysterious Kelsier to be part of his crew. It turns out Kelsier is a mistborn, half-skaa, with allomancy powers from his noble father, able to manipulate all the metals of allomancy -- and Vin is, too. As Vin learns about her new abilities and new world, she, Kelsier, and the rest of the crew work to free the skaa from tyranny of the lord ruler by infiltrating their world.
This was my first Sanderson and it won't be my last. I enjoyed this well-drawn fantasy novel even though I put off reading it for ages. 4.5 stars.
96curioussquared
225 books read: The Mirror and the Light by Hilary Mantel
This third book in the Wolf Hall series sees Thomas Cromwell weather the beheading of Anne Boleyn, the marriage of Henry to Jane Seymour and the birth of Prince Edward, and the match between Henry and Anne of Cleves before finally meeting his downfall.
This started rather slowly for me to the point that I was worried I wouldn't finish it before the end of the year, but picked up about 40% through. Gorgeous writing and so well crafted as always. A worthy conclusion to the series. 4.5 stars.
97curioussquared
226 books read: Nora Goes off Script by Annabel Monaghan
When Nora's husband left, it was almost a relief. He never did anything but spend her money, and now he keeps promising to come see the kids but never committing. Meanwhile, Nora took her resentment and turned it into a movie script -- nothing like the movies she usually writes for the Romance Channel, but something her agent sold to real Hollywood, and now her ex-husband is going to be played by heartthrob Leo Vance, with the movie partially filmed at her historic home. When the filming is over, Nora expects the team to pack up and go home, which they do for the most part -- but the next morning, she finds Leo Vance on her porch, offering to pay her $1,000 a day to stay for an extra week on her property. Nora could use the money, so she agrees -- not knowing what she's getting herself into.
Thanks to Katie for the recommendation! I really enjoyed this well-written romance novel. 4 stars.
98curioussquared
227 books read: Mammoths at the Gates by Nghi Vo
Cleric Chih returns home to Singing Hills only to find mammoth forces at the gate of the abbey demanding the return of the body of a deceased cleric. Can they resolve the conflict before it's too late?
Another lovely entry in this series. I'm looking forward to more! 4 stars.
And that's a wrap on my 2023 reading! See you all on my 2024 thread.
99foggidawn
>97 curioussquared: You got me with that one!
100katiekrug
>97 curioussquared: - That sounds cute!
101curioussquared
>100 katiekrug: Lol, I thought I got that book bullet from you! Maybe Micky?
102katiekrug
Ha! I figured you were referencing another Katie 😂 I don't remember seeing it on Micky's but I have a garbage memory....
104curioussquared
>103 MickyFine: Lol! Well, I have no idea how I heard about it then. Maybe TikTok? Anyway, I hope you like it!
