Review: The Lady of Shalott

The Lady of Shalott by Alfred Tennyson
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Ehh. This one still doesn't do it for me. I read two versions. the original and the revised edition. I personally preferred the original as it kept the focus on the Lady and how isolating her court position as tapestry weaver is.

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Review: Wonder and Joy for the Wired and Tired: A Guide to Finding Inspiration and Well-Being in a Wonder-Filled World

Wonder and Joy for the Wired and Tired: A Guide to Finding Inspiration and Well-Being in a Wonder-Filled World by Dr. Pam Stephens Lehenbauer
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book is full of factoids and tidbits on everything from soil to space. a very enjoyable read. The foreword alone is worth it.

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Review: The Rime of the Ancient Mariner

The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I first read this one in high school. under extreme duress. AKA as an assignment. having it read to me by the likes of Jeremy Irons made it far more enjoyable. Listening to it in small doses also helped me to pick up on subtleties I missed before. i highly recommend the Rime Big Read.

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Review: The Yellow Wallpaper

The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

I only read this to better understand a comment made by us administration regarding choosing wallpaper for some purpose or other. This gets a one star rating from me because I am not into either of horror or stories that just end abruptly. Especially when they are horror. I need resolution.

That being said this is very well written. So well written, if horror is your jam give it a read.

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Review: Nettle

Nettle by Bex Hogan
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Nettle has always been different. How different, she will not learn until a chance encounter with a faery king goes hideously awry. In exchange for saving her grandmother she must complete three tasks for the king.

One part Hunter's Moon, One part Rumpelstiltskin, Throw in a dash of Iron Fey. 100% original thought. For a story where a lot happens, it simultaneously feels as though nothing is happening at all. The layers of the world building and the slow, methodical unfurling of the secrets aided this feeling. Information is such a valued commodity in faery lore. This oft unspoken rule was extremely well honored in this tale.

As the reader, information is received as it is discovered by, or provided to, Nettle. We learn about this new world and Nettle's place in it as she does. Why is it that she alone can handle the nettles? Why does she not need as much sleep as the other trapped humans? Why do enchantments not work quite right? Reading this book is the only way to find out.

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On the Discourse

 

TL;DR

The above shorthand has become ubiquitous online. So common in fact, people write their posts utilizing this catch phrase to indicate a summary. In case people would rather not be bothered to read the full piece. Too long; didn't read. Even the phrase itself is shortened to an acronym to save time.

This attitude of instant to near-instant gratification has resulted in a new attitude towards reading as a skill. I was recently made aware that bookish influencers on TikTok and similar have been only reading the dialogue of books. Then proceeding to make videos either extolling a book's virtues, or vilifying it.

Skimming is not new as a reading activity. What is new, however, is claiming that skimming makes you an authority on something. Worse, telling others whether it is worth their time or not.

Consider this: everything authors write is intentional. Everything. it all matters and provides substance. It is supposed to take time to read a book. to not only read, to absorb what has been read. From there to understand it. No shade, people read for all sorts of reasons. I have skimmed many a text for a college paper searching for keywords relating to my needs. Once found I read more thoroughly to ensure the source really did suit my needs.

What I have never done, and will never do as a blogger and book reviewer is to review a book I have not read in it's entirety. I have been known to provide an explanation of why I didn't finish a book. I certainly don't star rate or otherwise attempt to influence its sales. Not with an incomplete understanding of the work.

For professional people to be engaging with media in this manner is irresponsible and reductive. I don't expect the judges for book awards to have read every entry themselves. I do expect that they would fully read a selection assigned to them so they can engage in reasoned debate with other moderators. Failing that have your assistants fully read them and provide accurate and detailed summaries of the major plot points and themes.

For people who make their living in some form to do with book blogging, I do expect that you have read the full book. From now on I will know not to assume it. If you haven't, at least state it up front so people understand that your opinion is based on limited information.

So much detail, and nuance, and Worldbuilding, is missed when skimming a text. At the barest of minimums as members of the book promoting world we owe the readers of our reviews, the watchers of our videos, the listeners of our podcasts, our honesty and integrity. They are taking the effort to tune in, therefore we should put that effort into our product.

Queer Joy 2026

 Rose Moon Books!

Click the link above to check out this queer friendly book store located in the Okanagan Valley of BC. Featuring a broad selection of titles on numerous topics, both fiction, and nonfiction.

They are a proud partner of Vernon Pride. Local area book clubs enjoy 10% off.

Pride Festivals:

There are several PRIDE festivals throughout the area. Vernon Pride culminates in a huge open air market and party at Polson Park on June 5th and pride picnic at Kin Beach on the 6th.

If Kelowna is more your speed, hit that link and learn all about it. The main event is held at City Park this year on June 6th. The Drag and Burlesque Brunch is not to be missed for those 19+.

If small town charm is your vibe Armstrong Pride is held on June 13th at Memorial Park. hit taht link for more details.

Review: The Honjin Murders

The Honjin Murders by Seishi Yokomizo
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book was absolutely a product of it's time. attitudes towards women are blatant in that most female characters are either window dressing or just there to provide exposition. It is also very obvious in the attitudes towards virginity and purity being one and the same.

The Honjin Murders is the debut Detective Kosuke Kindaichi novel, Translated by Louise Heal Kawai. The story follows the brutal slaying of a couple on their wedding night. In a room locked from the inside. With mysterious music being played the entire time. There's family drama, bumbling local police, an outsider young upstart detective, and secrets best left buried.

Due to this story being a translation and my woeful lack of Japanese language skills, I don't know how faithful a translation this is. Based on what I read this was an entirely predictable story, and easy read. figuring out how the author felt about the attitudes of his time was much more murky.

all in all a decently enjoyable read.

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Review: Hot Wax

Hot Wax by M.L. Rio
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Okay, okay. I waited a tad to marshal my thoughts. They are: Holy Shit. Damn. Read This book. Pterodactyl screech.

The plot and pacing of this novel builds so slowly that you almost miss it as it speeds up. The layering and nuance provided by the decision to bounce back and forth through time was impeccable. Revealing details of the past at the exact right moment for them to become relevant to the present *chef's kiss*.

I already knew going in that I would love the writing style, having read other works by this author. The characters are so deliciously complicated and human. Suzanne is a raw nerve still processing her father's recent passing. She embarks on a bat out of hell journey that can only be described as running. But, what, dear reader, is she really running from. A by all accounts flaccid marriage, her grief, or that one thing she witnessed when she was eleven.

Full disclosure, there is a moderately graphic scene or two featuring drug use, and violence. What this book is emphatically not, however, is horror. It just isn't. What it is, is a beautiful coming of age story presented in a way that is raw, and human, and messy. This book will rip your heart out in the best way possible.

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The Finished Book Questionnaire

1 . Do you keep a list of the books you have read?

You bet. I use Storygraph, Primarily. I just personally love the granularity of control over the user experience. I am also still on Goodreads because that's how my reviews get on this blog. I also use Librarything, which is super amazing and  a great place to get reviewer copies. before these services existed at least once a year or so I would accidentally pick up a book I previously DNF'd and start reading it again only to realize I still didn't like it.

2. If you record statistics, what statistics do you record?

Librarything likes you to track physical dimensions and weight of your books, so I do that over there. Storygraph provides me with stats on genres, how many books by which author, pages read, total books read, all by the year or the month.

3. Do you give star ratings for books and if so, what do you score books out of and how do you come about this score?

Yes, I do:

My rating System:
* = I got through it, but it barely held my attention
** = It was just okay
*** = I Liked it quite a bit
**** = I really enjoyed it/it made me think
***** = Phenomenal, outstanding, author on my automatic library list.

I also have certain author's I will automatically by at thrift stores or Friends of the Library/charity book sales, or garage sales. I never buy something new without reading it first.

4. Do you review books?

Absotively, but you already knew that. *wink*. This is a book blog after all. I post my reviews here, Librarything, Storygraph, Goodreads, and tumblr.

5. Where do you put your finished books?

I usually return them to the library. If they are a review copy and I disliked it, I follow the instructions from the provider. Either recycling it or donating it as appropriate. for audiobooks that are Advanced Listening copies I delete them when finished/DNF'd.

6. Do you have any other rituals for when you have finished a book?

Aside from writing that review, not really. Though I am considering making a book bandana, or scarf maybe.

Credit to the Twirling Book Princess for the idea to do this post

Crown Villa Repairs

 

A Go Fund Me has been launched on behalf of the residents of the Crown Villa. This property has fallen into extreme disrepair. A circumstance that befalls many who are low income. A local news paper the Vernon MorningStar has independently verified the offer from a business that wishes to remain anonymous. The organizer is one Rhonda Poffenroth, a concerned citizen.

Poffenroth will steward the fundraiser and ensure all donations go directly to the company for repairs. The fundraiser is not in any way for the landlord, whom many feel has been negligent. This is the latest development in a saga of woe for the residents. 

As of this writing the fundraiser has raised $1900. The need is $80,000.

Review: Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy: Advice from Rock's Ultimate Survivor

Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy: Advice from Rock's Ultimate Survivor by Ozzy Osbourne
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This one had its' good moments. Mostly it was a major head scratcher as to why anyone would want to get advice from him. In this book you will find topics spanning from ball care to dyslexia and everything else besides. Some of these questions are quite disgusting, and some are quite disturbing. You have been warned. 

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Review: Of Jade and Dragons

Of Jade and Dragons by Amber Chen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thought this book was going to be so predictable until the last 40-5o pages. Then it veered so hard I'm still digesting it.

This book is part (Hua) Mulan, and part Cinder, with a heaping helping of original flair. I think Silkpunk may be my new favorite genre. Our intrepid main character is Ying...

When her father has his life brutally cut short in front of her, Ying embarks on a quest of revenge. Infiltrating elite organisations and falling for forbidden souls are just some of the things awaiting anyone who choses to read this fantastic novel.

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Review: As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride

As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride by Cary Elwes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is for anyone who loves The Princess Bride in particular or Cary Elwes in general. Rob Reiner also read his own parts of this memoir.

The Passion it takes to get a project like this made, has increased exponentially since the movie first came out. Against all odds it prevailed. A very enjoyable listen.

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Things to do in BC to Celebrate Autumn

 Looking for some fun in the autumn sun?

Well, look no further. Below I have compiled some of my personal favorite harvest season activities.

First up is visiting your local pumpkin patch. This works for outings with friends and family alike. It also works as date opportunity, too. Basically any time you want to get some fresh air and have some great photos. 

Of course picking out your own pumpkins from a local, organic grower has great benefits for the local economy as well. I've Included some ideas to get you started:

1. The Pumpkin Patch in Armstrong
   
2. McMillan Farms in Kelowna
3. Greendale Acres in Chilliwack 
4. Davison Orchards in Vernon
5. Glacier Valley Farm in Brackendale

Next up, corn mazes and Corn picking. This is a great one for atmospheric pictures, and for some fun, and frustration, while honing navigation skills.

1. Greendale Acres in Chilliwack
2. Field of Screams in Vernon (Halloween horror themed)
3. Cariboo's Corn Maze north of Williams Lake

If you prefer your autumn fun a little more structured, many communities have harvest festivals:

• Armstrong
• Feast of Fields
• Nelson

Review: The Third Gilmore Girl

The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Don't cry because you think your best days are gone. Smile because you had them in the first place. - Kelly Bishop

Words to live by, truly. In her memoir Kelly Bishop take you through her professional career, her love life, her home life, and her faith. From the Radio City Music Hall to The Watchful Eye, and, hopefully, beyond. Enduring through numerous red eye flights, bad relationships, good relationships, cancers (Lee) and blood clots (Kelly).

I've always known she is a force of nature. Since the first moment she drew breath as Emily Gilmore, I have loved her work. This book is no exception. Even if you have never, ever, seen Gilmore girls this book is worth the read.

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Review: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Future...

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Future... by Michael J. Fox
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Michael J. Fox is inarguably in my top 5 favorite actors.

In this book, which he reads, Fox takes us through what it was like getting Marty Mcfly, being diagnosed with Parkinson's, and the process of grieving the life he would never have, and the realization he could still have an amazing one.

I found this book to be illuminating, sad, and, uplifting. Illuminating because he shares information about his life and career that was news to me. Sad because his disease is known to shorten lifespans, a fact he does not shy away from. Uplifting because he actively chooses life, which is evident in this book. Definitely worth the listen.

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Review: Rebel Skies

Rebel Skies by Ann Sei Lin
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Rebel Skies dives into a world of the future, and of magic. Kurara is a Crafter, an ancient race that can control creatures made of paper. She has wants and needs, she breathes and eats, she feels pain and joy. In all the ways that matter she is human.

Kurara, together with Haru, will journey from a life of drudgery as a scullery maid to an airship full of bandits. These bandits have something she needs, and she can help them too. 

This story initially felt very slow-paced. It needed to be that slow to expertly craft the world these characters live in. I was entranced by this story within the first chapter. The imagery and aesthetic were vividly communicated, allowing me to settle right in. I highly recommend this series to anyone who ever enjoyed the magic and sense of wonder that Harry Potter and Lord of The Rings brought upon their debuts.

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Review: Playing with Myself

Playing with Myself by Randy Rainbow
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this book Randy Rainbow shares how he became so culturally relevant. Through various anecdotes he lets the reader explore what it is like to go viral. In particular, Randy shares how people have tried to cancel him as antisemitic. Randy Rainbow is Jewish and a comedian.

He freely admits that some of his earliest material isn't the best out there. People seemed to forget that one of the core functions of comedy is to hold a mirror up to society. Many comedians adopt a persona, or shtick, as it was once called to garner some laughs. It doesn't always mean they agree with what they portray.

This book is about growth, the incomparable Babs, Bernadette Peters, and what happens when people are allowed to redeem themselves.

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Review: The Night Auction

The Night Auction by Lila Mary
My rating: 0 of 5 stars

I was provided with an ARC PDF for review by the author. This book is currently a dnf for me. I will reconsider reading it after it's been published. I found there were some Grammar and syntax issues.

There is potential for a great story in here. It needs some heavy editing. I had a glance through the rest and found that the bulk of the story seems written in first person with third person use of names. Lots of telling, I tend to prefer more showing. I hope the author has a trusted editor.

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