Raven's (On Time) Attempt at 75 books in 2024! (Part 2)

Howdy LibraryThingamabobs!
My name is Angela; I also answer to Raven (because I'm a former Goth and current Edgar Allan Poe Stan).

I live in Illinois, famous for Abraham Lincoln, beautiful praries and corrupt government officials (there's a wiki article and everything). I take care of an adorable soot angel masquerading as a cat (his name is Salem) and several plant babies. I returned to reading in 2022 after an accidental hiatus of 3 years, and discovered that I love horror, mystery and fantasy. My joys are books, tea, chocolate, music and crochet.

Despite my desires to be a writer someday my grammer and spelling is occasionally FUBAR. Mea maxima culpa.

Photo Gallery
My cat-son, Salem, keeping me company when I'm ill.


My Current WIPS: TBUpdated

Goals to Read This Year
- If not 75, to reach 50.
- To test my taste in horror by tackling the books on the "most disturbing" iceberg.
- Explore a new genre (romance)
- Catch Up On My Favorite Manga
- Shrink "To Read" pile of physical books.
- Shrink Comic Shelf

January
1.Gods of Jade and Shadow
2.Animal Farm
3.Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs? Big Questions From Tiny Mortals About Death
4.Mimi's Tales Of Terror

February
5.Nocturne
6.Dead Until Dark

March
7.Soichi
8.Mexican Gothic

April
9.Farenheit 451

May
10.Fight Club
11.Batman: Two-Face and Scarecrow: Year one
12.JLA: The Obsidian Age: Book One

June

July
13.Mostly Harmless
14.JLA, Vol.12: The Obsidian Age, Book 2
15.NOS4A2

August
16.All I Want For Halloween
17.Alley: Junji Ito Story Collection
18.The Black Phone: Stories
19.The Halloween Tree
20.Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals
21.The Things You Can Only See When You Slow Down

September
22.Uzumaki
23.Unbecoming a Lady

October
24.Hell Followed With Us
25.The Ballad of Black Tom
26.The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

November
27. Books of Blood Vol 4/"The Inhuman Condition"
28. Neon Gods


29.At Grave's End
30.Dracula

Books Finished in 2024 #12 - JLA: The Obsidian Age, Book One - Physical Copy


The JLA has been picking up the pieces after a previous event that left Atlantis empty, and supposedly killed its king (aquaman). But a serious of strange events, involving missing children, an ancient shamen, and the sudden appearance of sea-life where it shouldn't be, leads the JLA to suspect Arthur may not be dead, and in need of dire help.

Heros Featured: Green Lantern (Kyle Reiner), Flash (Barry Allen), Martian Manhunter, Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Plastic Man, Green Arrow, Zatana, Faith, Firestorm, Nightwing, Major Disaster, Tempest (aka Aqualad) and The Atom (Ray Palmer).

My Thoughts
Before I quit I picked up two comic books from my local used bookstore, mainly this and book two. I am glad I did, because I find this storyline very intriguing. The ususal serious, high-stakes plot with an underline of comic-hero goofy that I love so much.
Just an extra, but hearing Batman call himself athiest just feels weird. This man has LITTERALLY met Death and Dream from the Sandman Comics for cripes sake.
Anyway, my first JLA comic and I very much will be keeping it.

Happy new thread!

Happy new thread!! And I love being a LibraryThingamabob!! LOL

Happy New Thread

Happy new thread, Angela.

Happy new thread, Angela!

Happy new one

Morning everybody.
I am on the first taste of coffee this day, so bare with me.

Filled out another application yesterday so fingers crossed. Got approved for my state's benefits (helpful) and now just need someone to reach out so I can get the health insurance set up. Even if I don't get that settled soon, though, I'm not giving up the meetings with my therapist. She's been one of many rocks during this whole affair. And I do emphasize "one of many". My roommates, my folks, my brothers, my friends, everybody has been so kind and helpful. I couldn't be more grateful.

Sorry for the mush. Gratitude over anxiety and all that.

Yesterday I cleaned the bathroom floor, made some onion jam, and visited my hometown library. I didn't realize they now have an inventory of "things" people can check out, like sewing machines or record players. It's freaking cool, though I just went to the stacks.

I planned on making a beef stew yesterday, but it was HOT so we polished off a shrimp salad I made earlier instead. Summer is almost here and I can feel it. I went for a late afternoon dip in the complex pool and polished it off with some video games. I'm playing Strange Horticulture again, alphabatizing my specimens and solving puzzles, lol.

Book updates next, this post is long enough.

Book Report
Lots of audiobook progress yesterday whilst on the bus.

- Solid progress made in NOS4A2, about 20% done. I like it so far. Joe Hill remains a good writer.
- Started A Discovery Of Witches. And so far I'm having fun with it :)

Funny how life can throw you a curve ball so fast.
Hi everybody, I'm back after a very worrisome three days. While alone in our apartment, I discovered my roommate's cat in a very bad state. She'd gone completely limp, just barely breathing. I called everyone I could think of and got her to the local animal ER, and she's going to be okay. Poor thing was likely having a seizure, though we don't know for sure. I've watched her in recovery for two days now, and I'm seeing her slowly come back to herself. She's gonna be fine, poor thing, but I'd never been so scared in my life.

So tonight, now that things look good, I'm doing some distress care. Long hot bath, fave mask, the usual girly cosmetic crud that's near and dear to my heart. And I'm cracking open the books I paused while I nursed the poor kitty back to health.

Happy new thread, Angela! Oh jeez, so glad the cat is OK. How stressful!!

>12 Ravenwoodwitch: I'm so sorry about your roommate's cat, Angela! I'm glad you're taking good care of yourself, too.

Take care of yourself to recover from the stress, very good idea! I also enjoy Joe Hill, a chip off the old block as far as writing goes.

>13 curioussquared: hello, Natalie. Thank you on both counts
>14 norabelle414: Thanks Nora :) I struggle to remember myself in moments like this, but I can do that now.
>15 Tess_W: Thank you, I will. And yeah, in the most terrifying fashion. Just skilled at writing some of the WORST kinds of people, lol.

Hello all,

The cat is back to decent health, at least last I saw her today. You would think nothing happened to her with how normal she's behaving. We've got an appointment with vet neurology we will still keep to figure out what happened but, for now, all is well.

Still unemployed and uninsured, but I did get some good news. My therapist's program has a self pay option that, while steep, is not as bad as I was anticipating. I'm so relieved since, without her, I feel I would be much more adrift right now. My local library has recently approved my application to volunteer as well. I think it would be a good foot in the door and a means of keeping me busy.

Today, I'm doing some more organization around the apartment and some job hunting. The audiobooks will come in handy then.

Still working on NOS4A2 and A Discovery of Witches. Both of which are still quite good.

Hooray for the self-pay option for your therapist and volunteering at the library! Both sound great :)

Hello again, Librarythigamabobs :)

Things are going quite well. I finished up all the paper work and stuff and have started my volunteering in earnest. My first day had me helping a teen lab, which features a cricket machine, 3D printers, Brother sewing machines, all kinds of cool gadgets. I got to work specifically with an autism spectrum group (under supervision of course) and it was a blast; the kids were super sweet. Monday, I'll be helping out in the computer lab.

I also had a job interview at the local animal shelter too, so things are going great. Not sure the job is a good fit after all, but things are looking up.

I decided the e-book of 1984 wasn't doing it for me, so I've gotten a phyaical copy to see if that goes smoothly. Hoping to finish up Mostly Harmless before the 26th.

And after yet anothr long absence, I'm back!

Hello everybody.
This long stretch of being silent came curtosy of a long depressive mood swing, fueled by my own aniexties (funny how those two bring out the worst in each other) and some recent therapy issues I'd rather be too specific about on the internet. I'm healing, which is good; what's rough is that, as my therapist says, healing is ugly and feels like crap.

But I slept in today and feel a bit lighter, so it's time for a check in. I'll be catching up with everyone too.

The job hunt continues, as does the hunt for letters of recomendation to get me into the Master's program at my college. I'm also working more earnestly on my short story writing and may be able to start submitting stuff to magazines and websites soon. I had my second day volunteering with the teenage kiddos last week. Not the kids on the spectrum this time, just neutrotypical teens (cue the horror movie music) and once again they were sweethearts. I love their enthusiasim for their projects; its so adorable. It was also my first day last week volunteering in the computer lab, and I enjoyed that too. I'm a former retail worker and worried that I'd sour on working with people again, but this is so different. Helping a woman make a digital and physical copy of her W2's so she could do her taxes feels so much better than telling a very angry woman that her $90's worth of merchandise is all non-coupon qualified.

As for the books, sad news. I am looking at not finishing a book this month, which will be sad. I also after a valient effort gave up on A Discovery Of Witches. and will be putting it in DNF. I love the concept, but I just don't find the writing engaging. And I find the chemistry between Matthew and Diana non-existant. Will be buckling down instead on NOS4A2 (likely a july finish) and Mostly Harmless (that one I may finish if I book it).

A solomon moment at the end for the passing of the man I knew as Principle Kraft from Sabrina and Colonol Mustard from the Clue movie. Rest in peace, Martin Mull.

Sorry to hear you've been having a rough time but I hope things are looking up. I finished A Discovery of Witches but kind of wish I didn't so I think you made the right choice there! Sending positive vibes for the job/rec letters hunt!

Glad you're healing, Angela!

Working with the public is sooo different when there's no capitalism involved. I worked at an ice cream shop and a gift shop in high school and they were so miserable, but volunteering at the zoo is a delight.

>21 curioussquared: Thanks Natalie :)
That makes me happy to hear, actually. It's sad, because I adore the witchy stuff in literatue (as my name implies) but this felt weirdly sterile.
>22 norabelle414: Hi Nora, thanks :)
I'm getting that impression. The enviornment as a whole is much more social, much more bonding with people, and that resonates with me. I've always been decent at forming relationships with people and I think I can really help people here.

Howdy Library Thingamabobs.

I did book it on my book yesterday; but I have also sworn to myself that reading will not be a chore. So I read until I wasn't into it anymore, as normal. But we did finish today, just a couple minutes ago, so there will be a review.

It's been very good today. I had my computer lab volunteer work today, where I spent equal parts researching for my graduate application and helping people do some copy and printing.I spent it also watching the two Librarians on desk duty, and all the ways they interacted with patrons. One of them took the time to tell me

A)Come find them if anyone mistreats me because I don't deserve it (aww)
B)Their job is a lot of social work. Building bonds with people and all that. I really like the sound of that.

Afterwards, I did some brief fourth of July shopping (I once again shall be defending my title of Side Dish Queen of The Midwest) and had a good lunch with my roomate. I'm feeling good, and I hope that continues into tomorrow.

Book Report
- Fininished Mostly Harmless
Yikes.
- Gonna work moe on Dracula and then hit the hay.

Books Finished in 2024 #13 - Mostly Harmless - Physical Copy


Arthur Dent makes the mistake of thinking life is now enjoyable, with the love of his life traveling space alongside him; Ford also makes the mistake of thinking life is good, as he heads back to the Guide Office. And a different version of Trillian thinks she can change a mistake she made ages ago at a fancy dress party.
All of them are wrong, and hell is about to break loose.

My Thoughts
I am sad to admit this; but I'm disapointed.
This book is bleek, not even remotely the same fun romp as before. It feels like Adams threw up his hands and made everything go into chaos. before burning it all to the ground with the Vogons, which feels like a Coperate metaphor that I can't quite put words into yet. I read somewhere that Adams didn't like the ending to this one at all and "had a bad year" overall, which would explain a lot.
I hear an author I like, Eoin Colfer, tried to fix it; but I also hear some say the book is wonky and doesn't read very well. I don't know if I'll pick it up, but I also hate that this is where it ends.

Good Morning, and happy Tuesday!
No immediate plans this morning beyond the usual job hunt/school prep. Having written a METRIC TON of cover letters now, can I just vent about how much I detest them? Why do I have to wax poetic about how good of a candidate I am for the job, or why I want to work for this company? Especially since so many companies aren't gonna see it anyway after their silly software weeds out the resume for some reason or another.

I'll start on my personal statement today and put out another feeler for letters of rec.

Book Report
- More progress on NOS4A2. Nothing like starting the day with something to churn my stomach.
- More work on Dracula.
Johnny's dillegence in writing down his very boring search for Dracula distracts him from his wilting wife. Story as old as time.

Yay for finishing a book! I don't think I've read Mostly Harmless more than the one time and I've pretty much forgotten it -- sounds like that's for the best.

Cover letter solidarity -- they're the worst!

Good Afternoon all :)

It's my volunteer day with the Teens, meaning it's automatically a good day. Lunch with my folks (nothing cool, just a sandwitch) and then more writing but not much else on the docket. Most of my Honey-Do list will be tomorrow.

Book Report
- More Dracula Yesterday.
It took the death of a 'Madman' before the boys finally realized Mina was a Vampire Buffet. What fine detectives they are.
- Started and very much like a short story collection from Joe Hill called The Black Phone (why yes, the same the movie is based on) and I like it a lot
- Speaking of Joe Hill, I'm still chugging along on NOS4A2

Sandwiches are cool!

>29 norabelle414: Mine was pretty good. Turkey, Swiss, Salsa. Yum.

Happy Hung-Over 5th of July everyone!
Well, thankfully I'm not; just tired and dehydrated from yesterday's festivities. Burgers and pie with my folks, and then I went to see the local fireworks with my roommate. The dryness today came from some whiskey-spiked Hot Chocolate I had as a celebration (cause I'm not a beer kind of girl. Tastes like spoiled bread). I had a great time Wednesday with the kids as well.

I have good news: I got another Job Interview! This time for an adult literacy tutoring program here from the local community college. This aligns perfectly with my overall goals and morals so I'm quite excited. And we FINALLY got one person to agree to write me a letter of recommendation (One down, two to go).

Today, we edit my writing, we read, and we work on legs at the weight room. I may watch some more of Worst Roomates on Netflix. Anyone else seen that? I just started it and that first episode is SO nuts.

Book Report
- We creep along on The Black Phone: Stories and we feel a little sick.
one of these stories involves a kid turning into a giant man-eating bug, and it gets real nasty.

The volunteering sounds fantastic. Hooray for an interview!!! Sending lots of good vibes 😁😁

>31 Ravenwoodwitch: Fingers crossed for the job! I hope everything goes well!

Howdy everyone :)

Interesting past couple of days. We had my first minor issue in volunteering on Wednesday, which we managed to solve.
After that, yesterday, I kept my roomate company on her errands and then we went out for dinner. Once my head was on straight again I indulged in some Sabrina: The Teenage Witch and got a couple more rows done on my mom's new scarf. I should get some pictures up; you guys will love this one.
I forgot how much I adored this show in college. Libby's Mean Girl escapades feel so pointless now (lol) but Harvey is still by the far sweetest Lunkhead I've ever seen on TV. Also, like, can we just talk about how cool that girl's room was? I want her stuff so bad.

Today we're gonna try and hammer away some more at my Statement of Purpose for Grad school, and prep work for next week's interview.

Book Report
- Finished a comic book; review to come.
- Started a Manga (It's a surprise...)
- Also started a romance novel called All I Want for Halloween because anything to do with Halloween is an instant interest to me.
S'very cheesy so far but I think that's okay. Sometimes we need a little chedder to relax.
-We have crossed the halfway point of NOS4A2, and thank God. But also, ew. My word, ew.
Wayne has been kidnapped and is on his way to 'Christmasland' which is more than enough to make my skin crawl. That whole sequence could have been cut a couple pages, honestly, but only for the repeat sections where we see the same thing from another person's POV.

Book Finished in 2024 #14: JLA, Vol. 12: The Obsidian Age, Book Two - Physical Copy

I've made the cover nice and small because, once again, the details are a bit "EEP" and I know not everyone signs up for that kind of thing.

After learning of the fate of Aquaman and the Atlantians, the JLA face an anchient league of heroes that sees them as the end-bringer to their civilization, while the replacement JLA fight a new monster in the preasent with ties to that same league. Time travel shinanigans ensue.
CONTENT WARNINGS: Gruesome violence and death, allusions to sex and ZOMBIES. Oh, and Green Arrow Being a Sexist Pig (dammit Ollie).

My Thoiughts
Today we learned yet again that Plastic Man was by far the most powerful of the JLA. And that comic violence can be gnarly when it wants to.
But, otherwise, great storyline. Bit confusing at points but really gradiose and brutral. I don't see myself reading this one again for funsies but I think this was a cool place for me to jump into the JLA.

>34 Ravenwoodwitch: Sabrina the Teenage Witch might still be my favorite show ever! I've rewatched it through a few times as an adult and it really holds up. I would love to hear more of your thoughts as you go along.
Libby is a really great character; Sabrina never really gets that kind of good nemesis again.

>36 norabelle414: It's only now I realize that I am subconsciously trying to recreate her room in my room. Explains the boho curtains and crystals, lol.
I left off at the ManDough episode so far.
is it wrong that I wondered if Chad Cory Dylan would have become immortal if they stuck him somewhere cold?

ManDough is SUCH a good episode
You can't keep freezing and thawing bread forever, though! And I'm not sure that's necessary since Harvey is basically Chad Cory Dylan himself (this is a compliment)

>38 norabelle414: what you say is true, both counts, lol.

Howdy everyone!
Been awhile so let me catch up without text dumping all over the page.

Last volunteer session with the kids was uneventful but nice. One girl recognized me and showed off her paint project, the other opened up to me only after I recognized his plush was from a horror movie we both saw. It was not a movie I would want a kid to see but, uh, that ship has clearly sailed so might as well roll with it.

While I was there the librarian warned me about a patron who comes often enough to cross paths with. They tend to be quite disrespectful to the female patrons and staff exclusively. I tend to treat patrons with Blind Kindness so that was very good to know.

The job interview happened the next day, and I think it went quite well. Got several chuckles out of the staff, and got some talking out of them outside of the questionnaire. They seem like very sweet people that I would be delighted to work with and the job itself seems flexible on hours. That would be real helpful for Grad school.

After that was just a bit of lounging around, though, yesterday I went out on a trip to Home Goods. Those "necessities" for my kitchen table. Yes. Totally.

Today I need to make my final list for birthday groceries. My family has a lot of birthdays in July, so I'm just making cookies for the big ole' celebration we always have to do to celebrate all at once. And I should get to work again on my Statement for grad school, since I got another green light from someone to write me a letter of recommendation (I feel so blessed). That's technically three, but the third is a professor from my time at Uni who, in his email, said basically "well...sure, but, it's been ten years. You should probably seek people who have known you more recently. But go ahead and send me your personal statement when its done."

Rude. But not slowing me down.

Book Report
- Made a huge leap yesterday in NOS4A2 and will be done with it soon. I like this other half much more than the first. As much as it also makes my skin crawl.
I don't like the way Manx is talking to Wayne, no sir. Gives off the most NASTY vibes.
- Made some good time on The Black Phone too. I should have that one done before the month is over.

>40 Ravenwoodwitch: When I was in elementary school (3rd grade, I think?) all of the kids were obsessed with Chucky and I thought of myself as kind of baby-ish for not liking horror movies but in hindsight those kids absolutely should not have seen a Chucky movie!!!!

Wishing you the best of luck with your grad school application and I hope the job interview pans out well.

I am also a Sabrina the Teenage Witch Fan and was delighted a few months ago when I found the complete series on DVD. Now to get around to (re)watching it. :)

>41 norabelle414: oh no, not chucky...
>42 MickyFine: Thanks Micky!
And I say fo for it.

Happy Tuesday everyone,
I was up too late last night, and my attempts to sleep in were thwarted by my own body and an insistant cat. I am tired, and sore from working out. But at least I have no commitments to speak of today and can relax.

On top of all that, after I made my oatmeal, the lid popped off the canister as I was putting it back in the pantry. Man, I'll be cleaning oats out of there forever now, aren't I?

Bit the bullet yesterday and applied to another job. I want the previous one, but I can't waste time in case it doesn't pan out. I also did more work on my statemen of purpose, which I think will have a first draft done real soon. I'm treating myself to an iced matcha and croissant while I do some reading and writing today.

Didn't do any reading yesterday as I was focused on my volunteer work and some cleaning.

Enjoy your matcha and croissant! Sounds like a lovely little treat.

Greetings Library Thingamabobs, how are you?

I had a very good talk with my therapist today; we usuaay speak every other week but I wanted an extra seisson to help process some stuff. I'm feeling lighter.

I finished an audio book yesterday and will be posting that update shortly. Yesterday was another day with the Teens, though this time in a smaller, cozy space to account for the booksale.

I got the last ingredients yesterday for the Big Cookie Birthday Bake (tm) when someone graciously reminded me one of our Birthdays was gluten free. I've never worked with gluten free flower before; but I'm curious to see how different it is.

As for today, I may go out to eat later but I'm planning on doing stuff around the house today. Dishes, laundry, etc.

Book Report
-Finished NOS4A2. And boy do I have thoughts.
-Started audiobook of Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals
- Still working on The Black Phone, Dracula, And other assorted reads.

I've generally heard mixing a couple gluten free flours work best. Depending on time, I bet your local library has some great gluten-free baking books if you need tips (I know I order them all the time for work).

My brother is gluten-free. I like to use one of the 1:1 replacement flours, like Bob's Red Mill or King Arthur and a usual recipe. It works great for most cookies and basic cakes, tastes just as good.

>47 MickyFine: Thanks Mickey :) I found a reciepe online but that's a good idea for future stuff.
>48 norabelle414: That's funny, cause King Arthur is actually what I bought before I saw this, lol.

Books Finished in 2024 #15-NOS4A2 (Audio Book)


Survivor Victoria "Vic" McQueen may have escaped Charlie Manx, depraved and disturbed child kidnapper, but her mind never really did. Still, she's ready to put behind her the calls from a place that doesn't exist, and a stint in addiction recovery, to be a better mom to her son Wayne. But her whole worldviews - past and present - is challenged and run raw when Charlie comes back. And, this time, he's taking her son.
CONTENT WARNINGS:
Mental Health Disorders (Scitzophrenia and depression), Alcoholism, Family Trauma, Parental Abuse, Child Abuse, Child abduction, Implied Child SA, Implied SA of Men and Women, Murder O'Plenty, Domestic Violence, Matricide, Patricide, and plenty more.

My Thoughts
If my list of warnings above hadn't made it clear, this one is a rough, hard read. I'm an experienced horror reader and still found myself squirming and occasionally gagging. I saw there was a TV series made for the book and felt my skin crawl.
That said, for all the darkness in this very long, hard read, I am glad I have read it. Its a very engaging, well written story, just not for the faint of heart in the slightest.

>50 Ravenwoodwitch: I'm glad you're glad you read this one, but I will avoid it :)

>51 curioussquared: Don't blame you one bit, lol XD

Just catching up here. Wishing you the best of luck in the job hunt and I am glad you are enjoying your volunteer work. Also glad you have been able to keep up your own therapy and take care of yourself. Also nice job saving the cat. : ) Happy August!!

>53 Berly: Seeing this summary reminds me that my year has been quite interesting, lol.
Thanks Kim :)

After yet another long absense I am back; hello everyone :)
I will be blunt; things have been hard lately due to some issues I'm working on in my therapy seissons. I repeat I am grateful for my doctor, as she has been my lighthouse on the water. That, and my roomate. She really is my best friend and I don't know what I would do without her.

Weirdly enough, thats the only struggle here. I've finished some more books, got two short stories written, and continue to do well at my volunteer work. Helped two people today, in fact, apply for a job online. It's nice to share with others how stupid I find the whole application process most places. I hate how they ask you questions that are very clearly on your resume or make you answer a series of survey questions that basically amount to "I am worker who is punctual and won't steal from the registers!"

It's stupid. And the fact that most places won't just let you turn in a resume and letter in paper is unneccsary gatekeeping >:(

Book Report
- Finished Ebook, starting a yet undecided new one.
- Very nearly done with Four Thousand Weeks.
- Working on the Manga.

Books Finished in 2024 #16 - All I Want For Halloween (Ebook)

After her last boyfriend cheated on her with her best friend, Sadie is looking for a quick and easy hookup - or several hookups - at her brother's halloween party. That hookup turns out to be Harrison "Gear" Blackstone, the currently 'ousted' star of the reality TV show Motercycle Madnezz, who is also looking for a casual affair after his fiancee cheats with his best friend. But, as you can guess, things don't go according to plan.
CONTENT WARNING: Heavy Erotica

My Thoughts
I didn't like this. But I finished it anyway. Because I could turn my brain off while reading it. And because it's been FAR too long since I could get all my agitation out in a Bad Book Rant. And this book reeks to me of some Grade-A misogyny and Mean Girl Bullshit.

RANT STARTS HERE

"But the sex was great!" cry the defenders. Hold that thought.

First of all, this book commits the biggest eyerolling sin of the romances I've tried. Sadie is a "Man's Woman", supposedly so much better than other women because she "says what she means", "doesn't play games," and "can be outright mean." In short, she's one of those mean girls who tries to hide her inconsiderate and demoralizing commentary under the guise of honesty. And she's a big winner of the "not like other girls" nonsense, because while she likes lingirie, baking, and chocoltes, the book makes a big deal of her love of beer, burgers, and sex. AKA, the same stuff most women like. Okay.

But it gets better! Our foil is Gear's fiancee. And, look, Sahara earns her Female Dog Badge for cheating on her fiancee and for the emotional manipulation of said best-friend afterwards. BUT we also get pages that belittle her for her breast-enhancement (body modification), long blond hair (vanity stuff), and that her clothes are always tight and very revealing(clothing shamming with a side of body-shaming). Meanwhile, the author praises Gear for his tattoos (body modification), stubble (vanity stuff), and his choice of tight pants and leather vests (aka, revealing, but without the body-shaming). No amount of sex scenes will cover me when the author is a hypocrite.

And the sex scenes. DEAR GOD, these cringey sex scenes. They feel like they were written by someone who based their idea of sexual chemistry off of Pornhub. And if that's your schtick, fine, but this kind of thing stops being hot and tends to bore me; fast. And don't even get me started on the embaressing dirty-talk between Gear and Sadie. And when your story is basically a big giant run around of "uh-oh, someone is catching feelings!" you better be ready to bring the heat

RANT ENDS HERE

In short, this book isn't worth it. It's badly written, has cliche/annoying characters, and a story to make a Hallmark movie look original. I like chedder normally, but this cheese goes bad real fast.

Oh, I guess I forgot to mention. I did see Deadpool and Wolverine last Monday.
And yes; I've been listening to NSYNC again ever since. I'm a milliennal, duh (LOL)

I'm glad your reading and writing and volunteering are going well! When I'm feeling down it always cheers me up a bit to help someone else.

Hello again,

It's my day off so I've been doing very little. I dusted some of the surfaces in my room and finished my latest manga read. I'm working on a cover letter and will likely spend the rest of the day watching videos or doing more reading. Dinner is likely to be either pancakes (yummy) or takeout.

I did forget to mention yesterday that I went to the book store again. I shouldn't be buying more books (as I'm moving this year) but I fell for some marketing. Pretty page colors will get me, along with a cool story. And, while I was there, I was looking over prices and about lost my damn mind. Does anyone else think the prices for hardbacks AND paperbacks has climbed really bad or is it just me?

Book Report
- Finished a Junji Ito collection.
- Working on the surprise Manga.
- Plan to work more on the last Joe Hill i'm reading.

Book Finished in 2024 #17 - Alley: Junji Ito Story Collection

Tiny cover once again to minimize the unpleasent faces on the cover.
From human-shapped stains to a town where roads (and privacy) doesn't exist. It's another collection of spine-chillers from my favorite author.
CONTENT WARNINGS: Child death, Gross-Out, Suicide Imagery.

My thoughts
Since I'm going through some heavy stuff, this was a nice distraction. The stories range from weird to chilling but hold on to that bizzare lovecraftian feeling he's so good at. Still not my favorite of his american releases, but well worth the money.
My favorite story from the collection is "Inn" which also goes by "Rokan" in Japan.
If your stomach churns easily, skip "Mold".

Hey everybody; still here. Happy Thursday.

Peppy day with the kids in Teen Lab Yesterday. I had a very good talk with my therapist as well yesterday. We're still mending a lot of stuff, but we're taking it one day at a time.

I also screwed up and had caffinne late in the evening. It's a funny experience, waking up every couple of hours when you're trying to sleep.

Today I'm taking a day to myself. Laundry, job searching, and dinner are my three tasks for today; the rest will be spent with my books.

Book Report
- More work on the Joe Hill short story collection, soon to be finished.
- Once that's done I'm gonna start looking over other books I've left hanging/unfinished. And that high stack of library books that's only getting bigger....

Happy Thursday! Enjoy your day to yourself :)

Hope you are enjoying your day, and good luck with the job search.

>62 curioussquared: Thanks Natalie :)
It was well deserved I think. Let me process some more stuff and all that.
>63 ronincats: Thanks Ron!

Happy Monday everyone! (if such a thing is possible)
We're cresting back into a good mood after a long series of downs. I think it helps that my roommate and I are planning to head back up to Bristol Ren Faire at some point this month (later this week, weather and time permitting). My poketrainer costume is still missing a couple things, but, eh, we'll make it work.
Today I'm volunteering in my library's computer lab (I feel good helping people over the digital gatekeeping of the world) and then lunch with my roommate during her break at a cafe later. I'm cooking dinner later tonight so I think once I apply for a job I saw and we'll call it done for today as far as "work."

As for games, I finished Inscryption and absolutely adored it. I recommend it to anyone who loves card games and/or horror games (or if you liked the themes of the last game made by the same Dev, Pony Island). I'm playing more Harvest Moon: The Winds of Anthos and having a decent time. I say "decent" cause I don't like a couple new mechanics but it's the same addictive game this series has always been. I'm also replaying one of my favorite horror games: The Cat Lady by Harvester Games. Not for the faint of heart (Content warnings of Gore, graphic violence, child-death, depression, self-harm, abuse and suicide). Given that I'm investigating my own mental health Labyrinth, I wanted to see if the game hit me any different. Without spoiling, I will say this game hits now in a way I never would have guessed.

Book updates after work.

Book Report
- Down to the last two stories for The Black Phone story collection.
- Started a very short audiobook called The Things You Can Only See When You Slow Down (I see a theme with my reading) and I'm intrigued.

Hello again :)

I feel bad with these check-ins where I vanish, so here's hoping I can be a bit more consistent.
My big news today is that my application for Grad school is IN (and they made me pay money to apply, WAH!). Now I just wait for my letters of recommendation to be sent in (and one is already in) so I'm super excited!

Sad, however, that we didn't make it to the Ren Faire on Saturday. My roomie woke up with a bout of vertigo and we had to postpone. She felt so guilty, but she didn't have to. No one can help getting sick, you know? It's sad but we'll get there eventually.

Today I've been volunteering at the Library again. It's the time again for housing assistance vouchers; and helping patrons on those at the computers is a severely humbling experience. I also think I'm forming a friendship with one of the Librarians, which makes me feel happy.

When I get home today will be clean-up day. Stuff is stacking around the apartment and I want to get it organized/cleaned. Then, maybe, some more job hunting (to depress myself again. Wooo...)

Book Report
- Very close to finishing The Black Phone: Short Stories
- Had to return Things You Can Only See When You Slow Down due to a waitlist but I'm on that list too, so we shall dive right back in as soon as possible. In the meantime, my hold for The Halloween Tree just landed, so, don't mind if I do...

Congrats on getting your application in. I remember how much of a relief it was when I finished mine.

Sending good luck whammys for your job hunt!

>2 Ravenwoodwitch: im from illinois also! Now finishing the 24th Brad Thor book. Best reads in years!!
Just found this site-- and impressed by the goals of the group.

>69 kerrlm: Howdy fellow Land of Lincoln Dweller! Welcome to the club. Great group of people, very welcoming and understanding. Good luck on any goal you set (75 is more the big point, I haven't reached it once myself on 3 years, lol)

Hello again on a Monday!
(weekly...yeah, sure that works, lol).

Last week was rough emotionally speaking, just dealing with some personal stuff from my past. And it's also been stupidly hot and humid. BUT the good news of the week is that all three of my required letters of rec have been submitted to the grad school application site. I'm officially all in! (and have to wait until October to find out if I'm actually in...no pressure.)

I didn't job hunt much last week; just didn't have the mental energy for it. But I have submitted one application in the past couple of days with plans for another this week. It's a bit hard now to look since, if my grad school application is accepted, I don't know what my availability is gonna look like. I don't wanna verbally commit to full time when, likely, I'm barely gonna have time for part-time.

One last piece of good news. I've been, for a couple years now, working on a collection of short horror stories. And I only have to edit one more story and I believe we will have a finished batch of stories. I have a friend who knows a self-published author who's gonna give me some tips on the next steps. But I can barely believe my own eyes. I'm INCHES away from being a published author.



Wish me luck! Gonna do some more writing today after my volunteer work before heading home to chill.

Book Report
- I made a sad decision to return a couple books to the library that I was dragging my feet on/last interest in. And then checked out a couple more...because I have a problempleasesendhelp.
- On the last story in the Joe Hill collection. But she's a long one.
- The Halloween Tree is nearly halfway done. It's...interesting. Yeah, that's the word.

>71 Ravenwoodwitch: Congrats on finishing your grad school application, and almost finishing your short story collection, and returning books to the library, and getting more books from the library!!!

Woohoo on the grad school application! That's huge. And the short story collection!! Such an accomplishment :)

>68 MickyFine:>72>73 Thank you Natalie, Nora and Mickey!
Huge relief when I submitted it that's for sure. I do feel proud I got all that together.
The books is...wow. Just a stunning thought.

Hello everyone,

I swear I can't catch a break. I was informed yesterday that someone I spent the day with Sunday was exposed to a Non-COVID virus from her volunteer work with kids (I don't wanna be specific for their privacy). Its been two days and I still feel fine but, come tomorrow, I will stay home if I feel sick so as not to risk the kids, and even if I do go I'm gonna keep my hands clean and keep from getting in their personal bubble if I can help it. Just to be safe.

Otherwise, not much has changed today. Illinois is under a heat advisory so I have a wonderful excuse to stay indoors. I've decided Tuesdays can be a good day to clean (sine it's between days I volunteer) so I've been scrubbing kitchen counters. I also got the grime off the ovan. The dishwasher has yet to be fixed so it's all punctuated with rounds of rinsing and scrubbing dishes (bah!).

Yesterday's dinner was one of my favorites that I don't make often enough: Bacon-wrapped tofu with peppers and sushi rice. I blistered the shishito peppers (because they are one of my favorites) but you can easy substitute edamame or sliced cucumber. Leftovers tonight and then tomorrow I'm gonna make some americanized goulash (my mom's recpepe).

Book Report
- Finished a book, review to follow.
- The mystery Manga I shall reveal is Uzumaki, which I'm re-reading because the anime is due to release in October. Hopefully. Dear god, please.
- Gonna try and finish the Bradbury book today since it's so short.

>75 Ravenwoodwitch: Fingers crossed that you don't get too sick! Non-COVID illnesses are no joke either; don't forget to get plenty of rest

>76 norabelle414: True dat. Thanks much, I will be heading to bed early tonight :)

Books Finished in 2024 #18 - The Black Phone: Stories - Physical Book


Imagine being kidnapped by the local child murderer. And inside his dark basement, where hope seems lost, a phone with the cord cut begins to ring.
Or, imagine waking up one morning to discover you have become a giant insect.
Better still, what if your childhood best friend was made of inflatable plastic?
These stories and more inside this short story collection, all written by Joe Hill.
CONTENT WARNINGS: Child Death, Abuse of Children and Adults, Gore, Nudity, Suicide, Sexual Themes, Child Endangerment, implied Child SA, Implied SA, Racism, Neurodivergent/Special Needs Mistreatment.

MY Thoughts
Once again, Joe Hill has no chill button. All his stories go strange places (and not all of them disturbing despite my long list of warnings up there). And while I really liked the titular story and a story about Van Hellsing moving to America, becoming an abusive father some other ones I found cumbersome to read. A good read overall, but not a book I'm keeping on my shelf.
To the library donation bin it goes!

Books Finished in 2024 #19 - The Halloween Tree - Audiobook

It's the favorite night of most children: Halloween. And eight boys find themselves on a fantastical journey through the holiday's dark (and inaccurate) history in order to save their friend from Death's clutches, all at the behest of a mysterious figure by the name of Moundshroud.
CONTENT WARNINGS: Cultural misunderstanding/inaccuracy that I think its just a product of its time. Aka, El Dia de Los Muertos is not "Mexican Halloween"
Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong.

My Thoughts
I feel I am about twenty years too old to fully appreciate this one. Seriously, I would have fallen so hard for this one if I were 12 or 16 years old; I was such a halloween nut. I'm told there was an animated movie made about this one that feels like a fever dream, and I can agree to that. Bradbury's writing still illicits a fantastical feel, despite me losing focus a couple times while listening to it.
Yeah, overall didn't feel this one (and the ending is suprsingly dark) but I did find it cute.

Books Finished in 2024 #20- Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals - Audiobook


The unfortunate truth is that humans have a limited amount of time on this earth. Oliver Burkeman, a self-procliamed productvity junkie, examines how that limited time impacts our thoughts, the stories told around productivity culture, and whether it's actually helpful in terms of spending that limited time wisely.

My Thoughts
I've never liked books that talk about how to be more productive/hustle better. My neurodivergency makes most of their tips and tricks useless. But this... this clicks.
I loved this book so much. There is so much in here that I've been thinking but scared to say out loud; and I have a lot to think about from its pages on how better to spend my time. Especially now that I have a lot more free time than I'm used to.
I agree with the author. The trouble with getting good with finishing to-dos is that people start handing you more things for the list. The deck never really shrinks; it just gets more cards. Gotta love capitolism, eh?.
This is another one that will stick with me; I can feel it. And it's a stroke of luck/ironey that I found this one after I left work. Lol.

Good Morning, Librarythingamabobs,
I come to you with a glass of pumpkin-spice cold brew (yay, they've brought it out early!) and my cat laying dangerously close to my keyboard. If I mistype, it was me trying to not stamp his whiskers.

It be Thursday so it be my gym day; and also the day after all the volunteer work, so we're gonna try to get some rest. I am still feeling fine overall and don't have the physical sympotms I was told to look for. If tomorrow proves equally fine than I think we'll be a-ok to take that day-trip on Sunday. We're heading to Kenosha to the Bristol Faire again since we had to miss last week.

I also have a therapist apointment today (moved up by my request) so there will be much to think about after. I'm adapting from the book I just finished (see above) with a closed list of chores that, once done, will be it for the day. That includes a writing habit which I'm trying to keep up. The aforementioned book was a result of writing off-and-on between work for about five years. If I get accepted to grad school I won't know what my time will look like either, so now is the time to start making those habits more concrete. Not much otherwise on the docket today.

Book Report
- Finished the audiobook last night. Will likely finish another one soon since My hold for Things You Only See When You Slow Down came back last night and I don't have much left. I'm just breezing through these....
- Manga is about halfway done. Being an experienced horror junkie doesn't make Uzumaki much easier.
Nor does it make the mushroom chappter any less disturbing. Hrrrgh, oh god.....
- I'm continuing my trend of enjoying dystpian classics by picking up where I left off on 1984 and I will be working on it in earnest now.
-Got a handful of holds on audibooks that caught. We'll see what sticks.

Books Finished in 2024 #21 - Things You Only See When You Slow Down

Spiritual wisdom about navigating our fast-paced world mindfully, by monk and Zen Buddist Teacher, Haemin Sunim.

My Thoughts
Can you tell there's a theme in what I want right now? Lol.
That said I feel this one would have served me better with a physical copy. Lots of wonderful ideas to think about in navigating this new, kinda chaotic chapter of my life. Short, very insightful, probably not my genre food for the soul right now.

Whew! A lot going on here. Congrats on finishing the grad school app. Fingers crossed for you. Now, in the meantime, good luck with the job hunt. I like your recent book theme - hoping you find more you time and yet get all your to-do stuff done! Cuz that will leave time for books. : ) Happy Friday!

>83 Berly: Cuz that will leave time for books :)


I would also accept just feeling productive and not overwhelmed. The latter happened so much with my old job I would collapse into bed as sonn as I got home.

>81 Ravenwoodwitch: Bookmarking the Bristol Faire for the next time I'm in Milwaukee, thank you!!

>85 norabelle414: just got home from it. Highly recommend it. Just be ready for a LOT of stimulus. Can be overwhelming fast if noise and crowds trigger you.

Heyyy all.

Very late but hey, I'm here. Hows' everyone doing? (I'll play catch-up later and find out).
I'm doing as best as my situation will allow. I'm prepping for the move coming up next month, FINALLY getting my medical insurance situation settled (I applied in June. WHAT the hell) and doing some more job hunting. I'm also feeling better today because our Dishwasher - which broke at the end of last month - was finally replaced. Finally, I can bake and cook with near reckless abandon!

But hey, Tea Time.

I just heard about NANOWRIMO's next latest scandal. Apparently, it's not enough that they faced allegations about groomers; now they accuse people of ablism and classism if you discourage the use of AI in meeting their challenge.

https://www.wired.com/story/nanowrimo-organizers-classist-and-ableist-to-condemn...

I like to think my stance on AI is quite simple: Have fun with it, use it to generate ideas, don't tell it to write a book and copy paste the schlock it spits out as your own words. And I also like to think most writers share my view. Besides, this whole "diversity in writing tools" statement sounds very hollow when its coming from a company who has a SPONSOR who sells an AI writing aid. It feels capitoltistically scummy.

But that's just my thoughts; and I'm more than willing to hear others thoughts on it, even if you disagree :)

Book Report
- Got one finished, need to post.
- Started Birds of Prey: Vol 1
- Started and made a small chunk of Hell Followed With Us
My only major complaint so far is the switch to Nick's POV that was suddenly in third person. It's jarring to me, and disapoints me a little. It would have been nice to have the reveal about his intentions a little later and a bit more naturally.
- On conrast, also reading 1984 and enjoying it thus far.
Minus only the complaint that I don't find the writing as engaging this time. Which is odd; I really liked Animal Farm.
- Enjoying the short but hilrious audiobook Unbecoming A Lady.

Books Finished in 2024 #22 -- Uzumaki (re-read) (Physical Book)

The town of Kurouzu-cho finds itself cursed by the spiral, and a series of strange happenings threaten to pull it to disaster.

My Thoughts
Hey, it's a cover I don't have to hide!

This is still my favorite horror novel, no question. And reading it again only gave me more terrors that went over my head the first time. It's unsettling, disgusting at times, and getting an adaptation this month that looks promosing. Highly recomend to read this before Sept 27th if you wanna see it.

Vanished again, but HI everyone :)

I'm back from a mild moody period, but with some good news. I've recently gotten two job interviews. Had one last week for Walgreens (I don't know how much they'd like for me to say so we'll just say "interesting") and tomorrow I'm interviewing for Bath and Body Works. I'm looking at seasonal work just in case I'm accepted into Grad school, so I can make a clean break and evaluate if I have time for part time work (Cause I know I won't have time for full-time). They'll start announcing next month I think who's been accepted? Fingers crossed.

We're setting up to move very soon in my household as well. The place we're going is small, but nestled into a neighborhood crawling with trees and wild flowers. It'll be super easy to feel like I'm back in the woods when we go.

On news that's less exciting, did anyone see the breaking news about lead in cinnamon? I cannot stress how much of a downer that is. I'm ready for fall and have been eating/drinking all the stuff that uses cinnamon and other spices. And now I gotta replace the cinnamon shaker in our house and question whether the coffee shops are even safe anymore :(

Bleck.

Book Report
- 1984 is going on hold again, and may be in my DNF. I've tried ebook and regular book and just don't find it as engaging as the other dystopian novels. And its so bizarre since I loved Animal Farm. I'm gonna put it away for now and see if audiobook works better down the road.
- Have managed to hold on to Hell Followed With Us and made steady progress.
- Unbecoming A lady is still a great listen.

>89 Ravenwoodwitch: Fingers crossed you can get a job that works with your schedule, and that you get into grad school!!

While the issues a few months ago with very high levels of lead in children's applesauce were extremely concerning, the levels found recently in cinnamon are not anything you should be worried about. Lead is everywhere in the natural world, in microscopic amounts, and the reason we keep having reports of heavy metals in food recently is because technology is allowing for more sensitive tests. While of course less lead is better, and a few brands are known to be worse than others, there is no such thing as consuming zero lead. You would need to eat somewhere between one Tablespoon and a quarter cup of cinnamon per day to get close to the point where lead would have any effect. (Ars Technica did the math here: https://arstechnica.com/science/2024/09/heres-why-you-shouldnt-freak-out-about-l...

>90 norabelle414: I've been clickbaited, d'oh!
This actually helps a lot, Nora, thank you.

Hey guys! Been awhile, how are we all?

I have fantastic news; I've been hired!
Temporarily, at least. I'll be working for Bath and Body Works as a seasonal sales associate for the holiday season. I figure this will give me some income to rebuild my savings and make it easy to break away should Grad school give me the green light. Plus, they were willing to be flexible so I can keep my volunteer work.

Just finished today finding some clothes that can work for my shifts. I'm starting my training next week, and we've got the move coming up in a couple weeks so I'm also condensing and packing stuff. All the while, I'm listening to people play this game, "Thank Goodness You're Here!" Which, from what I can tell, seems to be oking fun at Yorkshire. It is one of the funniest games I've seen to date, I admit.

Book Report
-Small slump on reading I admit, so mostly just reading The Inhuman Condition by Clive Barker. It's a short story collection - if the touchstone looks funny its because that's the newer title - and, well, once again Barker displays his unique talent of making gore sound downright poetic.

>92 Ravenwoodwitch: Congrats on the job! I hope it's a good fit for what you need.

Congrats on the job. I hope it fits the bill for you!

Hello again everyone!
Job training went off smoothly. And I found it easy to slide back into headspace of a cashier as well. Now I just have to control my wallet and not shop afterwards, lol.
(and steel my spine for the holiday season)
Anyway, My week remains busy - hence it took me so long to be here. Worked yesterday, volunteered the day before, now I'm back to the library to hang with the kids before more training tomorrow morning. Once again looking forward to Friday; not only do I have nothing on the calender, but I can stay up late and see Uzumaki's premiere.

Speaking of shows, I also caught the The Penguin When it hit; and I freaking loved it. I adore the scarface feel they're going for this time around (with a villian that gets turned into a joke far too often) and can't wait for its next season.

Book Report
- Had to send back Hell Followed With Us but I have my hold on it, so I'll be picking that back up.
- Started, in the meantime, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, a recomendation from a family member after I mentioned how much I liked Four Thousand Weeks.
- Still chugging away at the Clive Barker short story book.

Books Finished in 2024 #23 - Unbecoming a Lady: The Forgotten Sluts and Shrews That Shaped America (Audiobook)

Stories of "shocking" women past who's bravery, audacity, and determination to whatever they were chasing made history (for better or for worse).

My Thoughts/u>
I love the variety of subjects in this one. The beginning was full of names I hadn't heard of; a fact that actually makes me kinda mad. I should have heard of at least a handful of these.
Towards the end we got the ones I'm familiar with: Mother Jones, Ida B.Wells, etc.) But, seriously, did anyone else know the lady who designed the traditional layout of a kitchen was the inspo for cheaper by the dozen? AND packing so many degrees? It's criminal that I didn't.
Anyway, this was a great short read/listen. The writing is zippy with just enough snark not to be annoying; and Betsy Foldes Meiman and Chante McCormick are excellent narrators. Will very much be recommending this one to my friends.

>96 Ravenwoodwitch: ooh that sounds fun!

>97 norabelle414: I thought of you when I read this, actually. I very much think you'd like it.

Hello Library folk; happy Monday!

Today is gonna be busy. I'm wrapping up my time at the library, but only have enough time to go home, eat, and shove the cat into his carrier before we go to the vet. Send your sympathies to sweet Salem if you wish; he's gotta get his physical and rabies vaccine today.

After that I'm hoping to finally finish packing all my books. This has been hard, as it's involved deciding which will have to go in storage and which will be on the small shelf I can fit into my new bedroom. I think a deep soak bath will be due afterwards.

Book Report
- Finished the above book I posted a review on.
- Still working om Hell Followed With Us, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, and the Clive Barker Novel.
- Watched the new show for Uzumaki and HOMYGAWD I am both happy and worried all at once. Will elaborate later.

>98 Ravenwoodwitch: Well then I will definitely check it out! My library has a paper copy but not the audiobook, but it looks to be short so I should have plenty of time for it.

Congrats on the job! Sounds like it will be a good in-between while you're figuring out your next steps :)

Howdy everyone!
On my way to work, and it is gonna be a long ride (weekend bus, two transfers. Sigh.) My life continues to be packed away into boxes; we transfered some over to the new place yesterday, but the big move will be this weekend. Wish me luck!

I forgot that I'd wanted to talk shop about the TV show Uzumaki so allow me to do so now. If you don't know, this show was stuck in development hell thanks to the Pandemic, and mounting delays did not fill fans like myself with much hope. However, the first episode last week made some of my fears better. I thought that animation was suitably off-kilter (rotoscoping), the voice acting great, and the overall atmosphere deliciously uneasy. I only didn't like the pace they decided to take with the chapters.

Now I'm scared, for all the wrong reasons. I'm seeing screenshots from the latest episode where the quality has taken a nosedive. It sounds like its going to be yet another disappointment in the long line of disappointments for Mr.Ito's hard work; and it's on my favorite, too, which is extra sad.

Will share my book updates at a later point when I'm not on my phone.

Book Report
- Finished a book; review to follow.
- Still working on the Mark Manson book and enjoying it extensively.
- Started The Ballad of Black Tom and I am quite intrigued.
- Clive Barker short story collection going slowly, but going all the same.

Hello again everyone!
Book updates up top since I missed it earlier. I'm doing alright today; taking things nice and slow since the last couple of days have been hectic and stressful.
Sunday was my first busy day - and you aint seen busy until you've seen retail busy - and while I left my shift dead tired, I felt quite proud since my new boss told me I did an excellent job. It's been quite some time since I've heard that and it felt really good.

THEN Monday took a nose-dive. First, the app that tracks my therapist apointments broke and didn't show me all my other apointments (just a glitch, thank God) and then I got the estimate for my upcoming physical. Without my new insurance (thiscountry'smedicalsystemissoGDbrokensomeonepleasesendhelp). I got scheduled a shift that will take me late into the evening later in the month and, to top it all off, the protien for dinner that night was still frozen by the time I checked it, oven already preheated, veggies chopped.



Today's gone better so far. I've gotten some extra sleep, called the hospital and managed to sort the insurance issue with surprise ease (Idon'tcareIstillhatethissystempleasesendhelp). I'm going to take it easy today and maybe do some writing.

Books Finished in 2024 #24 - Hell Followed With Us (Audiobook)

16 year old, Transgender boy Benjamin Woodside may have escaped the christian cult that destroyed the world, but he carries with him the virus they believe is their salvation. Will a rebel group of LGBTQ+ be able to help him find a new home, or will that virus destroy him from the inside first?
CONTENT WARNINGS: Dead Kids, Religious Abuse, Body Horror/Gore, Transphobia, Implied Sex Scene.

My Thoughts
First of all, I am tickled pink that so many of you thought of me when you read a disturbing book. Excuse me while I hide my face behind my bloody fan and titter shyly.

That said, the horror elements here are quite well done. We have disturbing scenes befitting an apocolyspe and decriptions of body horror to make Clive Barker give an approving nod. However, that bloody detail did not win the book over for me in the end because, at its core, this is a young adult novel; and those have not been to my taste now for the past five years. I also found the writing a bit repetative - which in audio form is more noticable - but that's a nit-pick against a new author, something that I ususally see fixed as the author writes more. That will have to be hearsay for me, as I will not be continuing the series. But I encourage everyone to not let that be the final word for you. If this book sounds to your taste then, by all means, pick it up.

Hello again everyone
Goodness it's been awhile.

I'm on my phone so forgive any mistakes here.

This time I can only partially blame my mental health, because we have been MOVING. The big furniture is moved and majority of my things are now settled in at the new place, minus some stuff. We're conducting the move over the month so we don't have to rush to get it all out so I would say we're at the final 25%.

It's been stressful as hell. My lack of exercise has manifested itself in the worst way, as I needed to talk out early on in moving things. I got overwhelmed pretty quickly that day, trying to manage the truck, my family helping us, and everything else all at once. I'm proud of myself for pushing through it to this point. But, oh boy, am I going to wait awhile before I do anything like this again (and evaluate my stuff; some of this stuff isn't worth carrying).

But while the move has gone as smoothly as it could have, there came bad news this weekend: ny grad school application was declined. The rejection email made it sound like it was too many applicants not enough slots, but that doesn't change the heartbreak I felt. I'm obviously going to try again as soon as I can but, for now, I'm just letting ghe disappointment be.

Reading so far was more audiobooks, less physical stuff. Gonna try to make some more time for my books this week to relax for a bit.

>105 Ravenwoodwitch: I'm glad your move is going well, I love the idea of moving slowly over a month. But so sorry to hear about your grad school application! Take good care of yourself!

I'm sorry to hear your grad school application was declined :( Not fun news no matter the reason.

>106 norabelle414: Thank you, Nora; I'm focusing on looking after myself as often as possible.
And yeah, the idea of a slow move was new for me but not so bad. Just gets frustrating when I'm inevitably missing something that's still boxed.

>107 curioussquared: Thank you, Natalie. Yeah, it was crushing to see at the time. I'm mending now and focusing on applying again.

Books Finished in 2024 #25 - The Ballad of Black Tom (audiobook)

A novella retelling H.P Lovecraft's The Horror at Red Hook from the prespective of a black man living in 1920's Harlem, but not beat for beat.
After cheating an old witch out fo her esoteric delivery, Charles Thomas Tester agrees to a strange deal from an old, esscentric rich man that causes a domino of terrible changes within New York City.
CONTENT WARNINGS: 1920's Racism, Death By Police Violence, Racist Slurs, Graphic Violence In General.

My Thoughts
Fun story with this one. I found it from a subreddit called "r/BooksThatFeelLike," where people can post pictures of either a vibe or a look they like and people can suggest books that match. I've been trolling it and I suggest everyone does the same.

Anyway, this story isn't just The Horrors of Red Hook with replaced characters and regurgitated plot points (which is what I feared). Tommy's story is very much its own, and his suffering at the hands of police brutality and the rampent racism of the time is woven seamlessly into the Elder God shinanigans.

Though I think the writer of the advertisment blurb got their Lovecraft confused. They mentioned how the book's chosen monster "The Sleeping King" was very much like Dagon...but Tom straight up says its Cthullu in the book. Besides, isn't squidboy ususally the one who's referenced as "sleeping" anyway? I dunno; I could have my Lovecraft confused too.

My only nit to pick is that, in the second half, the pace jerked into breakneck speeds. The book probably could have gone a little bit longer to make the transition to the horrors more smooth, but that's my only gripe. A fun read if you wanna dip your toe into horror.

Books Finished in 2024 #26 - The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck (audiobook)


Podcaster, internet entrepenour, and writer Mark Manson shares a very counterintuative approch to care more about the things you wanna care about, and how to let go of what's not your priority.
CONTENT WARNINGS: Language mostly, but there's also talk of childhood trauma, and the death of a friend.

My Thoughts
Oh gosh, please let me know if there's extra I need to be doing to not test the sites rules about language (lol).

So, this was a recomendation from my oldest brother after I mentioned how much I liked the Oliver Burke novel. It's got the same approch of a shocking, nearly nihlistic title to pull you in before giving some genuinely good advice. While I don't agree with everything here there were plenty of things I found insightful and thought-provoking. I think I'll go ahead and check out the sister/sequal book sometime.

>110 Ravenwoodwitch: There's no rules here about language as long as you're not insulting someone.

>111 norabelle414: good to know! Thank you :)

Oh wow, it's been a fun couple of weeks. And by fun I mean:


The short of it is that I had a a week of multiple stressors and minimal relief. I had a medical episode on Monday where I ended up calling 9-11 (I'm fine, thankfully; was able to follow-up with my doctor that same week) and, a couple days later, the people working on our driveway broke a water pipe in our basement.
They made a temporary fix that they showed up to fix permanently today, early morning, which set me back a whole hour. And left me without water in the morning.

I'm hoping a day at home will improve things once I'm done. And I already voted, so I can ride out election day tomorrow by nestling under covers and pretending I'm a luddite.

Book Report
- "Finished" the Clive Barker Novel. In quotes because the final short story features content that I currently find too psychologically triggering to read and opted not to try and finish. Given that I was about 10 pages away, I'm gonna call it and stick my tongue out.
- Starting The Witching Tide and already very intrigued. I've always loved when writers work with a character that's part of the deaf/blind/mute community not just for diversity sake, but also because I think it provides opportunities for more unique storytelling. And the hysteria around witches from the older times has always fascinated me.
- I'm also listening to The Anxious Generation though with skepticism.
anything that wants to blame a large problem on a large group on "the technology" has me skeptical, especially since I don't believe social media is the sole cause of the documented rise in anxiety out of gen z.
That said, nothing about it so far is triggering my BS alarm.
- I may also start Mythos since my hold on that just came in.

I'm so sorry things have been hard, Angela! I hope you have a peaceful technology-free evening tomorrow.

You did finish that Clive Barker book! Congrats!

If you listen to the podcast If Books Could Kill, they did an episode debunking The Anxious Generation that is quite good.

Books Finished in 2024 #27 - Books Of Blood Vol.4/"The Inhuman Condition" (Physical Copy)

A collection of short stories from acclaimed author Clive Barker.
1. The Inhuman Condition
2. The Body Politic
3. Revelations
4. Down, Satan!
5. The Age of Desire (unfinished)
CONTENT WARNINGS: Extreme Gore, implied Sexual Assault, Graphic Depiction of Sexual Assault, Religious Abuse, Graphic Depiction of Murder.

My Thoughts
As mentioned I had to DNF the final story for personal reasons. But, to be honest, the rest of these weren't as sparkling to me as his previous work. I love the concepts of the first two, and the third one was told in an interesting way, but that creative touch Barker normally has just wasn't there.

I'm not sure I'll be exploring more of his work for awhile.

Sorry you've had a rough week :( I can relate on the election stress at least. I voted pretty much as soon as I got my ballot (we're mail-in only here in WA) and since then have just been spiraling, lol. Hoping to survive the next two days with the new Stardew patch on Switch and my new cross-stitch project.

Hello again everyone :)

Sorry to disappear for a month, there. I had a combination of low mood and busy schedule that left me with no mental energy to spend on social media. I'm gonna catch up on everyone's stuff here pretty soon but, for now, let's recap on my end.

With the holiday rush has come a lot more hours available, and I've been seeing some actual helpful paychecks these days. It feels good to finally get some cash back into my savings. What feels equally good is how close we are to being completely moved out as opposed to partial. Like I've said previously, we're doing it slowly over the whole month as opposed to a week or a day. The furniture is FINALLY all out of the old place and, now, it's just a matter of getting all the tiny things in boxes. It never fails; every time I move, I look at my things and question why a 30-something needs this much stuff.

Previously when I left you, the people doing some renovations broke a water pipe and left a leak. That leak is fixed, the water is fine, and the renovations are almost done. Now we just have to test for possible issues with the water itself. As the man who fixed our pipes said that our old, galvanized pipes may not be doing our drinking water an favors. Great.

This whole picture put me in a media slump, so I don't have much to report. Today I picked back up on Neon Gods(and I'm glad I did) and two nights ago I sat down and watched The Wicker Man from 1973 for the first time. I was very impressed with the atmosphere of the film and - not gonna lie - that ending is still a disturbing lump of thoughts sitting in my brain. But oh, the music, it's off-putting and beautiful at once.

If you like art-house horror than definitely watch it. Content Warnings: LOTS of nudity, LOTS of sexual scenes, implied gore, animal abuse/death, and that disturbing ending that I think is infamous by now.
If not, than be aware that the main character has a very disturbing death by fire at the end of the film, alongside some animals.

Today, I'm planning on resting with my books, my tea, and some youtube. I do have some chores around the place but we'll tackle them later.

>113 Ravenwoodwitch: Just catching up with you.

Sorry to hear about the obstacles you are facing. Boo on the grad school application. I am sure, that your next try will be successful.

I read the anxious generation a few months ago. It will be interesting to read your thoughts on it.

>118 figsfromthistle: Thank you, Anita :)
I admit I am curious so far. I like the way the author is approaching things so far. But I will reserve my full jusgement until I finish.

Hi Angela! Sorry you've been feeling down. I'm glad you're getting more hours, and that you're making progress on the move. Hope you enjoyed your down time yesterday!

I have a brief window at work so quick check in. Hi everyone :)
I'm okay, overall. Tired and overwhelmed from black Friday but that's standard. I have fantastic news: ALL THE STUFF IS OUT OF THE APARTMENT!

Freedom never tasted so good.

Thanksgiving was great. The immediate family isn't much of a political mindfield since majority of us all agree on the big political stuff. I have been surviving off leftovers from that meal for about 4 days. Thank the universe for good timing since these past few days have pushed me to my limits. Black Friday has been easier these days but not "Easy", since most of my customers were genial. Just...so many people. So many people.
Anyway, back on the floor I go. Next post should be updates!

Glad you're doing okay and the customers have been nice to you!

Books Finished in 2024 #28 - Neon Gods (EBook)

In the city of Olympus, the upper class live in hedonistic luxury, under the rule of the shadowy leaders known as The Thirteen. Though 12 may be more accurate, as the current Hades is believed to be dead, purely a myth. But the cost of all this glitz comes spiraling towards the young Persephone Dimitriou hen her mother - the current Demeter - agrees to engage her to the current Zeus, who's rumored to have offed his last two Heras. Persephone chooses to run away, learns that Hades is far from a myth, and that he's hiding more than his citizens in the darkness of the Lower City.
CONTENT WARNINGS: Death, Gun Violence, Family Abuse, Gang Violence, BDSM Kinks, and Erotica.

My Thoughts:
At the risk of outing myself, Imma say it: I like this one. A lot.
I love the story of Hades and Persephone for some reason, and I love the approach they took with it here. I also love the mafia blend they have. It's far from masterful in terms of writing technique but it was great fun. I for SURE wanna see the rest of this series.

Back again, hi everyone.

After working the entire Black Friday weekend it feels so good to tell my work that, no, I will not be coming in for an extra shift this Monday. I am scheduled to be off, I have plans, and I don't intend to change it.

It's snowy today so the trip to the library was an interesting walk. I've eaten the last of the thanksgiving leftovers so I may have to actually cook tonight (boo) and I'm planning to help my elderly folks with their Christmas shopping today and get some of my own shopping done. I should probably work on my Christmas craft-gifts today but we'll see if that happens.

Returned The Witching Tide since it wasn't hooking me. Started Can't Spell Treason Without Tea and already love it. I have the next Sookie Stackhouse but I wanna see if my Library has a physical copy instead of an Ebook.

Glad to hear you survived Black Friday and you fit in some reading between all that busy.

Hey! Bet several of you thought I wouldn't be back until 2025, huh? Yeah, me too.

But hello. I'm actually doing quite well, just uber-busy and sick. Got myself a sinus infection just before the holidays; and the holidays themselves have caused my work schedule to be absolutely crazy. I do believe Christmas ism quite literally, the only day I have off this week (nothing makes me more cynical of capitalism than December). I do, however, have some good news. Work has decided that they would like to keep me on after my seasonal period has ended; and, given that I got rejected for the spring semester at the University, I have time. A steady paycheck will be such a huge relief.

Speaking of Christmas, while I had to drastically reduce my gift load this year, I am on track to finishing the craft gifts before tomorrow(what maddness is this?!). I'll have pictures before they get wrapped.

I've also done some reflections for my reading this year already. This year took a very tough turn for me, between a draining job (and a draining coworker), the search for more work, and some serious mental health work, it's not a surprise to me that I will most likely on crest 30 this year. But 30 is better than 0, right? And it's still impressive for everything I've gone through. I will most definitely be back for 2025; all of you have been such wonderful people on those days when I feel up to poking my head in.

If I don't resurface before/after Christmas, than Happy Holidays to all of you. Here's to us in 2025🥂

>126 Ravenwoodwitch: 30 *is* better than 0, you're doing great! We all go through slumps sometimes. You can come back to reading later, it will be there for you.

Congrats on being on schedule with your crafts! I am ... not.

All reading is good reading.

Merry Christmas to you!

Congrats on the job! And 30 is absolutely better than zero :) Merry Christmas!

Thinking of you at this time, Angela.

>130 PaulCranswick: That's so sweet. Season's greetings and happy belated holidays to you too, Paul!

>127 norabelle414: >128 MickyFine: >129 curioussquared: Thank you for your kind words, everyone. They really do make me smile when I see them.

Happy last post of 2024 everybody (Jesus, it's almost over already?)
Long post, so, sit tight.

I'd figured I'd check in before posting my last two reads of the year. I'm doing quite alright, thanks to some fortuitous series of events. My store manager realized she'd given me no time off the week of Christmas (whoops) and gave me that Saturday to finally get some rest. I had a wonderful Christmas with my family; both my roommate and my niece appreciated the gifts that worked well into 1 am to finish (Turns out the final bits took longer than I'd anticipated, so, I wasn't on time after all) and I was gifted a coffee grinder and two new cookbooks. The first is the official one from Stardew Valley and the second the official cookbook for Hocus Pocus. I like collecting novelty cookbooks so this was all fantastic; and the grinder was courtesy of my roommate, who noted how I hadn't had my favorite coffee from my French press for a while because finding course ground coffee is RIDICULOUSLY hard where we live.

For New Year's, we're off to get some good steak and some cocktails; 2024 was rough for us both, might as well finish it with a flourish. And, tomorrow, I'm gonna help my mom do some cooking for New Year's Day.

I find Resolutions are best kept to general ideas as opposed to hard tasks. Here's mine:

Overall:
1. Be more environmentally conscious
Nature has consistently been my safe place for this whole endeavor I've gone through. It's been good to me, and we only get one planet to live on, so I will put it back into her. Besides, moving all of my stuff really opened my eyes to how much crap I own that I'm half-attached to at best. I'm looking to shop more secondhand, local farmers, and invest in things that help animals too—already started with an account on Poshmark and buying from a coffee site that touts helping shelter cats with each purchase. I'll link in the 2025 thread if it turns legit.

2. PRIORITIZE HEALTHY BEHAVIORS
Relax, I'm not turning into an Almond Mom. I'm striving for better sleep, to exercise when I feel able and willing, and to seek out whole foods that I like and can eat in abundance. I've gone through a lot in 2024; I wanna spend 2025 building myself back up. This idea also includes treating myself to unhealthy food and beverages every so often as well, because mental well-being isn't to be left out in the cold.

As for my reading goals, I highly encourage peeps to check out a new category in my collection; Next In Line. These are the books I will be pulling from when I pick up a new book in 2025. I'm gonna comb through what's on my shelf and see what I like, and what gets donated (book purges never felt so good). I will be prioritizing non-scary books this coming year as well; I think I need some dragons, romance, and sunshine more right now. They aren't purged from my reading but they will be less likely.

See you all next year!

Books Finished in 2024 #29-At Grave's End (audiobook)

Katherine's wedding is put on hold as an old Ex of her beau emerges; a centuries-old, powerful vampire that will rip the world of the Un-Dead asunder just so Bones will suffer.

CONTENT WARNINGS: Erotica (just barely), A new Kind of Ick For Me (When you almost have to sleep with someone you don't wanna sleep with), Talk of Suicide, Gratuitous Torture, WAR (Good God, y'all), LOTS of gore, and Nudity.

My Thoughts
This is the first dirty novel I've ever seen be too distracted by the plot to get to the spicy stuff.

Call me crazy, but minus the moment where Katherine ALMOST has to sleep with Tate because a gun is to her head (ew, God, please, no) I think I counted only one sex scene this entire novel. And while others I've read in the genre are similar... the last book in this series had three. Just saying..

A lot happens here that's graphic and frightening. It's honestly my least favorite in the series so far because I look to genres like this for more easy reading, not so much full-scale fantastical war. But I kept going and finished it because I still like Katherine and Bones as characters (even if the powers of one are starting to get ridiculous).
Overall suffering from middle-child syndrome this one; will take a break before getting to its next of kin.

Books finished in 2024 #30 -Dracula(Physical Copy)

I doubt this one needs a plot intro. I read the Barnes and Nobles Classic edition which featured notes explaining places and phrases that are out of date.

My Thoughts
This took a whole year (lol). That last section was such a SLOG.
This was rough for me. I adored the beginning, the tension being built. But the end felt like a never-ending string of meetings and memorandums. This is book is written with so much mundane details that I feel could have been easily cut.

But I suppose that's a product of its time. When I cut that part away, I'm left understanding exactly why this book was so well received. Bram Stoker does a good job at fusing the natural with the supernatural and I'm sure it gave many a fright on its release. I will not be keeping my copy but will perhaps invest in the copy that features drawings by Edward Gorey.

Happy 2025, Angela! I like your resolutions :)

Heres my new thread for 2025 everybody!
See you there ;)

https://www.librarything.com/topic/367180