May 2026 Wrap Up

Books Read:

Night of the Letter by Dorothy Eden (1955)  4/5 stars

This is a domestic suspense with gothic vibes.  And if melodramatic, was still entertaining and engrossing, with a satisfying ending.

Blood & Roses: The Paston Family and the Wars of the Roses by Helen Castor (2004)  5/5 stars

Drawing from the the oldest surviving family correspondence written in English, the author/historian tells the story of three generations of the Paston family as they survived the upheavals of the Wars of the Roses. This book is intelligently written while still being easy-to-read.  It is a fascinating glimpse into the ordinary lives of an upwardly-moving family who were living through tumultuous times. 

Cargo of Eagles by Margery Allingham (1968)  3/5 stars

Albert Campion mysteries, book 19

This is the final Campion novel that was written by Allingham, and it was completed after her death by her husband, Pip Youngman Carter, from the notes she left.  It suffers from having too much going on in too few pages.  Despite being convoluted and confusing at times, the adventure was generally entertaining, and it's always fun to revisit Campion and Lugg.

The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis (1942)  5/5 stars

This was a reread for me, and I was even more impressed this time.  Lewis holds a mirror up and I saw myself in so many ways.  Simply a fantastic read for Christians who are willing to see themselves from outside, and who desire to change for the better.

The Captain of the Vulture by Mary Elizabeth Braddon (1863)  4/5 stars

This melodrama/mystery takes place in Georgian England, in the mid 18th century.  I went into it blind, only knowing I love the author, and I'm glad I did because all the plot was a surprise for me. I figured out some elements, but it still had me guessing in parts.  It was quite entertaining, and those that love the genre like I do will most likely enjoy it, too.  

Pride and Preston Lin by Christina Hwang Dudley (2024)  4/5 stars 

This is a contemporary Pride and Prejudice retelling that takes place in the San Francisco Bay Area among the Asian American community.  The characters are mainly college and grad students, learning to know themselves as they mature over the course of the novel.  I enjoyed how the author used the classic plot as a template for her modern story, giving it new twists yet staying faithful to the original.     Overall, I found it charming, often funny, and well-written.   As a fan of Dudley's Regency romances, I had great hopes for this one and was not disappointed.  (note: While it is no-spice, I'd place it in the New Adult category rather than YA.)

Audiobooks Completed:

War Bound by Tara Grayce (2020)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 2

War Bound picks up immediately after the end of the first book, Fierce Heart (my review here), and follows Essie and her elf husband Farrendel to her home country as they try to negotiate a further treaty to ally humans and elves against the aggression of the trolls. The sweet (no-spice) romance between the two continues as their marriage of alliance grows into love.  The plot is one of traitors, danger, and betrayal; it is exciting and engaging, and even had me in tears toward the end.  I enjoyed it tremendously and began the third book immediately after finishing this one.

Death Wind by Tara Grayce (2020)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 3

As previously, Death Wind picks up immediately after the end of War Bound, and tells of the war between the Trolls and the Human/Elf alliance.  It does include a lot of off-the-page torture, which is mentioned without  graphic details after the event.  It is well-written with a tense, gripping, and exciting plot which made me eager to begin the fourth book.

Troll Queen by Tara Grayce (2021)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 4

Like the others, this one picks up exactly where the last one ended.  I don't want to give spoilers, but a treaty is made between the Trolls and the Human/Elf alliance, leading to another marriage to seal the peace -- this time between Elf and Troll.  This book is well-written with lots of action, emotion, and drama, and with sweet and swoony no-spice romance thrown in for good measure. In addition, the author deals with topics like how to love in such a beautiful and healthy way.  I absolutely loved this book!  It's definitely my favorite of the series so far.

Pretense by Tara Grayce (2021)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 5

Assassination attempts, scandal, spying, secrets, and broken hearts fill this fifth installment of the Elven Alliance series.  It focuses on the human Prince Edmund and the elven Princess Jalissa as they navigate a budding relationship initially built on lies.  It's another well-written, no-spice fantasy, with action, emotion, and drama.  While Troll Queen remains my favorite, this one was a great read as well.

Shield Band by Tara Grayce (2022)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 6

To make a stronger alliance between the human kingdom and the Trolls, the Prince Julian searches for a bride among the Troll warriors.  Picking her was the easiest part -- wooing her was a test of Julian's courage and humility.  They become closer through tragedy and adventure, learning to stand side-by-side and back-to-back to face all difficulties.  This is the final book of the story arc (though three more books remain that deal with side characters and other points-of-view) and it wrapped everything up nicely.  It was well-written, engaging, exciting, and even moving at times, with swoon-worthy no-spice romance.  It quite nearly edged out Troll Queen as my favorite of the series.  

Did Not Finish:

Maid in Waiting by John Galsworthy

End of the Chapter, book 1; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 7

This book begins the final trilogy of The Forsyte Chronicles, but follows cousins-by-marriage to Fleur Forsyte Mont instead of the actual Forsyte family.  I read about half of it, but didn't find it as compelling as the prior two trilogies and eventually lost interest entirely.

Top Five Tuesday: Mysterious Houses

  Top 5 Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by Meeghan Reads 

I'm a day late, but yesterday's prompt of "mysterious houses" was too fun to pass up.  Here are five books that I have enjoyed where the houses are mysterious in a variety of ways. 

1. and 2.  Howl's Moving Castle (not pictured) and House of Many Ways by Diana Wynne Jones

In Howl, the house has legs and moves about and is a character in it's own right.  In one of the sequels, House of Many Ways, the house has doors that are portals, and is also a most important part of the story.

3. Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

In this book, the house, Manderley, is full of unsettling secrets and people, an uneasy place that the new Mrs. de Winter learns to dread.

4. Dracula by Bram Stoker

Count Dracula's castle is terrifying place, menacing and deadly.

 

5. Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

Poor Catherine Morland!  She goes to Northanger Abbey expecting a gothic thrill but the mysterious oud house doesn't give exactly what she was wanting.

Have you read any of these?  Dracula and Rebecca are among my top favorite books of all times, but I recommend any of these five.

April 2026 Wrap-Up

Books Read:

The Silver Spoon by John Galsworthy (1926)  4/5 stars

A Modern Comedy, book 2; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 5

This novel combines politics, modern morality, and the reflections of those born "with a silver spoon" to make an engrossing, immersive continuation of the Forsyte family story.  As is usual with this series, there are beautiful passages of prose, thought-provoking instances, and a strongly believable story.  While it may not be as all-consuming as those of the first trilogy (The Forsyte Saga), The Silver Spoon is a worthy addition to the Chronicles.

Swan Song by John Galsworthy (1928)  4/5 stars

A Modern Comedy, book 3; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 6

I didn't enjoy this book as much as I did the previous five.  I did not like the direction it took nor did I care for Fleur, the main focus of the story.  Despite that, it was engrossing and I had to continue to see what would happen. Galsworthy was a master storyteller, making a gripping, thought-provoking story about flawed, believable people.  I came away not "liking" Swan Song, but still glad that I had read it.

Mirrors of Ice by Celeste Baxendell  (2021)  4/5 stars

Bewitching Fairy Tales, book 2

This no-spice fantasy is a blending of the tales of "Snow White" and "The Snow Queen", and carries over some of the characters from Stalks of Gold (my review here). At over 350 pages, the author took the time to build the world well and create believable, nuanced characters. It is both tense and sweet, with plenty of action. I definitely enjoyed it and will be continuing the series.

Audiobooks Completed:
Root of All Evil by E.X. Ferrars (1984)  4/5 stars

Andrew Basnett series, book 2 

This is a fun, well-written, and clever mystery.   

The Curse of Misty Wayfair by Jaime Jo Wright (2019)  4/5 stars

This is an engrossing Christian-themed, dual-timeline gothic mystery novel.  It's well-written and both time periods felt believable.  It kept me guessing and involved throughout.   

Fierce Heart by Tara Grayce (2019)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book one

This was a fun and often exciting story of a human princess marrying an elf prince to secure peace between their countries.  It's narrated through the thoughts of the princess, Essie, and if her continual introspection was annoying at times, it was age-appropriate and felt natural.  Watching the (no-spice) romance between Essie and her PTSD-suffering warrior husband unfold was sweet and satisfying.  I enjoyed the book a good deal, especially the mix of magic and steam, and look forward to continuing the series.  

March 2026 Wrap Up

Books Read: 

Pink Sugar by O. Douglas (1924)  4/5 stars

The Priorsford Trilogy, book 2

While this is the second book of the Priorsford trilogy, it is not a sequel to Penny Plain (my review here), but only takes place in the same general area of Scotland.  It is a wonderful story -- part slice-of-life, part character study -- and is full of gentle humor, charm, emotion, and life.  I enjoyed this well-written, absorbing book even more than Penny Plain, and was sad when it ended. 

The Midnight Show by Sarah Pennington (2020)  3/5 stars

Bastian Dennel PI, book 1

This mystery is a retelling of "the Twelve Dancing Princesses" set in a fantasy world similar to a US city during the Jazz Age.  The concept is unique, fun, and engaging, but (at under 200 pages), the book is too short to really develop the world, magic system, or characters.  Despite that, I enjoyed it and would definitely read more of the series.

The Broken Halo by Florence L. Barclay (1913)  4/5 stars

Barclay is the author of my favorite Edwardian romance (The Rosary), so I expected a typical-of-her romantic love story.  Instead, it's the tale of a new doctor who lost his faith in God at the age of seven, and spent the next twenty years developing a hardened resistance to anything to do with Christianity and an overwhelming desire to succeed regardless of the cost.  He becomes the physician to an older heart patient, whose faith is strong and alive -- and who prays determinedly for his soul.  This is a moving and surprisingly riveting book, which shows the beauty of a Christ-like love. 

Priorsford by O. Douglas (1932)  3/5 stars

The Priorsford Trilogy, book 3

Priorsford takes place about four years after the events of Pink Sugar, and ten after Penny Plain, bringing back and blending the stories of characters from both.  It was a bit uneven to me, with some dull places that weren't quite outweighed by the good parts of the story.  It's obvious that the author was quite concerned with the state of Britain at the time, as she inserted discussions of issues here and there, but in a way that didn't feel natural.   Priorsford also finished in an unfinished way, for lack of a better term, seeming to be setting the scene for a fourth book that never came. I still enjoyed reading it, but it wasn't on par with the previous two of the series. 

The White Monkey by John Galsworthy (1924)  4/5 stars

A Modern Comedy, book 1; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 4

This is the first novel of the second trilogy following the Forsyte family, and takes place almost immediately after To Let.  While not as excellent as the previous three*, it's still compelling, engrossing, and immersive.  Galsworthy was a magnificent writer. (*see audiobook section for reviews)

Interlude: The Silent Wooing by John Galsworthy (1924)  3/5 stars

A Modern Comedy, book 1.5; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 4.5

This short story is not a good example of Galsworthy's talent, but does set the scene for the following novel.

Audiobooks Completed:

Galsworthy

In Chancery by John Galsworthy (1920)  5/5 stars

The Forsyte Saga, book 2; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 2

This continues the story of the Forsytes, Soames and Young Jolyon in particular, 12 years after the events of A Man of Property.  The family is still focused on property, human and material alike, and their relationships reflect this.  It is a beautifully written and masterful character study, an excellent picture of the death of the Victorian era, and a gripping, engrossing story.  

Interlude: Awakening by John Galsworthy (1920)  5/5 stars

The Forsyte Saga, book 2.5; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 2.5

This short story takes place eight years after In Chancery and tells of the discovery of beauty by a young Forsyte.  It's a moving story which illuminates one familiar character and sets the stage for the adulthood of a new one.

To Let by John Galsworthy (1921)  5/5 stars

The Forsyte Saga, book 3; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 3

This is stellar conclusion to the first trilogy of The Forsyte Chronicles (i.e. The Forsyte Saga).  It follows two of the youngest Forsyte generation, as the actions of their parents affect the outcome of their own lives.  In addition, it's a character study of the early Jazz Age, which it's change or priorities, so contrary to the Victorian raised Forsytes.  It's a brilliant finish, unsettling and moving, that leaves the reader wanting more.  

 A Certain Justice by P.D. James (1997)  5/5 stars

Adam Dalgliesh series, book 10

James is a master story teller, and the disconcerting ending of this character-driven mystery makes this one of her best.  This was a reread and I still found it incredibly moving and enthralling.

February 2026 Wrap-Up

Books Read:

Stalks of Gold by Celeste Baxendell (2021)  3/5 stars

Bewitching Fairy Tales, book 1 

This no-spice fantasy is a combined retelling of Rumpelstiltskin and Rapunzel.  It is one of the author's earliest published novels and is not as good as her later books, mainly because nearly all the characters wallow in anger, despair, angst, or self-pity (if not all at once).  However, it is imaginative, well-written, has an intriguing plot and, for the most part, was an entertaining story. I will certainly read more of the Bewitching Fairy Tales series, but in the meantime, I highly recommend Ties of Starlight (my review) or This Rotting Heart (my review), both of which were five star reads for me.

The Belton Estate by Anthony Trollope (1866)  5/5 stars (my review here)

Fair Warning by Mignon G. Eberhart (1936)  4/5 stars

Marcia has been married for three miserable years to Ivan, an emotionally abusive manipulator.  Her neighbor, Rob, confesses that he loves Marcia and begs her to leave Ivan, but in her fragile mental state, she simply can't.  That night, Ivan is found murdered and Marcia is the most likely suspect.  

Eberhart creates a sense of dread from the very beginning, gradually increasing it until the tense atmosphere is nearly smothering.  The clues and false clues are clever -- every time I was certain I had the answer, I had to start over again.  While it's not a five star book, it was certainly entertaining and gripping.

Nathaniel's Nutmeg by Giles Milton (1999)  4/5 stars (my review here)

The Case Of The Blind Barber by John Dickson Carr (1934)  4/5 stars

Dr. Gideon Fell mysteries, book 4

A group of friends crossing the Atlantic from New York are robbed, rob someone themselves, find and lose an injured person, and become embroiled in one laugh-out-loud situation after another.  It reads  like a slapstick comedy, yet is a clever, skillfully-planned, rather grisly murder mystery. I found it to be highly entertaining  overall, and with a satisfying conclusion.  This is my first time reading any from the Dr. Fell series, so I don't know if they are all humorous stories, but I will certainly read another to see. 

Penny Plain by O. Douglas (1920)  4/5 stars 

The Priorsford Trilogy, book 1

This gentle book is a character study of both people and place, a slice-of-life story, a celebration of sibling love, and a light romance.  It's full of engaging characters and lovely descriptions, and includes strong Christian and moral undertones. Though like a fairy-tale in parts, Penny Plain felt alive and believable in many other ways.  I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written novel and look forward to reading the rest of the trilogy.     

Audiobooks Completed:

These Happy Golden Years by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1943)  4/5 stars

Little House series, book 8; Newbury Medal Nominee

This book finds the Ingalls family doing well in their homestead and becoming a part of the town.  It follows Laura as she becomes a young woman, begins earning money to assist her family, and experiences romance.  It's sweet, funny, and delightful, and a pleasure to watch her grow and mature.  

The Man of Property by John Galsworthy (1906)  5/5 stars

The Forsyte Chronicles, book 1 

This is the story of family obsessed with property of all sorts, and their relationships with each other. It's a character study, a novel of manners, and an examination of Victorian life.  Excellently written and completely engrossing, The Man of Property is a memorable experience.

Indian Summer of a Forsyte by John Galsworthy (1918)  5/5 stars

The Forsyte Chronicles, book 1.5 

This novella begins a three years after the end of The Man of Property and is a wonderful, moving, and well-written footnote to the story.   

The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper (1826) 4/5 stars  (my review) 

Did Not Finish:

Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder

This is not so much a "did not finish" as a "did not start".  I didn't want to interrupt the flow of Laura's stories with Almanzo's tale, so my intention was to read it last, after I finished the rest of the Little House series.  I listened to less than one chapter, but got interested in the Galsworthy book and switched to audio with it.  I still intend to return to Farmer Boy, though, as it's one of my favorites of the series.

Orchid Muse by Erica Hannickel

This is subtitled "a history of obsession in fifteen flowers" and I was intrigued.  I love a history tied around one object or person. Unfortunately, the author starts the introduction by saying that there is "nothing quite like the raw sexuality" of an orchid, and she continued with an agenda to sexualize the orchid, which isn't what I was looking to read. 

The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper

The Last of the Mohicans
James Fenimore Cooper
1826 
4/5 stars

I'm not particularly interested in American history nor American literature, so while I enjoy British books from the mid-to-late 19th Century, I've read very little by Americans. This is one of those classics that I've "always meant to read" but never thought would be interesting enough. I was wrong.

The Last of the Mohicans is exactly what one would expect if a Victorian melodrama/adventure was uprooted from Britain and placed in the wilds of North American -- a rugged tale, full of war and daring deeds, shaped by the wildness of the land.  There is an obvious love story, and one that is hidden, but the real focus of relationships is that of father-to-son and friend-to-friend.

Yes, it's dated, and at times cringe-worthy.  However, Cooper saves the word "savage" for the enemies of his hero Native Americans, the Mohicans and the Delaware, and shows a sensitivity to the Native American culture that I didn't expect. 

While I wouldn't say that The Last of the Mohicans changed my point-of-view about American literature, I will say that I was quite impressed.  I was engrossed in this adventure, was moved to tears on a few occasions, and loved it much more than I expected.  I wouldn't hesitate to read more of Cooper's novels.

Nathaniel's Nutmeg by Giles Milton

Nathaniel's Nutmeg: Or the True and Incredible Adventures of the Spice Trader Who Changed the Course of History 

Giles Milton

1999

4/5 stars

This is a nonfiction account of the English attempt (during the 16th and 17th centuries) to acquire spice trading posts in what is now Indonesia.  The East India Company had their sights set on the island of Run in the Banda Islands.  This lead to hostility and bloodshed between them and the Dutch East India Company -- and to the eventual English ownership of Manhattan.

One difficulty I had with the book is that while Milton makes extensive use of journals, diaries, and letters, which he acknowledges in the bibliography, he unfortunately doesn't ascribe to any particular source with footnotes.

My other complaint is that the title is misleading.  Nathaniel Courthope features only as a minor character in the story of these spice wars.  Milton gives Courthope direct credit for the British obtaining Manhattan because of the stand he took against the Dutch on the island of Run.  This is tenuous at best, though I don't deny that Courthope was both brave and heroic.

Despite these two problems, I found the book easy to read, enjoyable, and fascinating.  I've studied a lot of British history but had no idea of the depth of the conflict between England and the Dutch over  cloves and nutmeg.  The brutality was horrifying, and the extent of the rancor over one small spice island was astounding. 

I will add that Nathaniel's Nutmeg is definitely written from the British point of view, and may be biased, but it is still interesting and informative. 

Top Ten Tuesday: Armchair Travels

  Top Ten Tuesday is a feature hosted by Jana at That Artsy Reader Girl.

Today's Top Ten Tuesday prompt is "books for armchair travelers".  These are the eight that I would recommend wholeheartedly to any reader.

1.  Sky Burial by Xinran 

I absolutely loved this book!  It's a love letter to Tibet and was simply fantastic.  My full review can be found here.

2. Married to Bhutan: How One Woman Got Lost, Said "I Do," and Found Bliss by Linda Leaming  

This is another romance that is also a love story of a woman with a country.  I loved this one, too!  My full review is here.

3. Chasing the Rose: An Adventure in the Venetian Countryside by Andrea Di Robilant 

This is more history than travel, as the author is attempting to trace the identity of a certain rose, but the reader still travels with the author on his lovely adventure.  My full review is here.

4. King Solomon's Mines by H. Rider Haggard

Haggard wrote great adventure stories and this is one of his best -- and one of my favorite novels.  Yes, it's dated here and there, but for the most part it is a sterling yarn.  My full review is here. 

5.  The Mapmaker's Wife by Robert Whitaker

This is a nonfiction account of a map-making expedition, plus the story of a woman's adventure.  My full review is here.

6. The Altogether Unexpected Disappearance of Atticus Craftsman by Mamen Sánchez 

This novel is the delightful tale of a Brit, Atticus Craftsman, and his visit to Madrid.  My full review is here.

7. Passionate Nomad: The Life of Freya Stark by Jane Fletcher Geniesse 

Freya Stark (31 January 1893 – 9 May 1993) was a self-taught explorer and adventurer, who became a respected Arabist and a renowned author and letter writer. Geniesse tells Freya's story in entertaining, interesting, and accessible prose, showing the many facets of her life, including her formative years, her motives, and her dreams. Freya Stark was a fascinating, if flawed, woman, and I learned a good deal both about her, and about the world around her during her long life.   Her travels make fascinating reading for the armchair traveler.

8. Dracula by Bram Stoker

Travel to Transylvania with Harker in one of my favorite books!  My full review is here.

To see more books by location, check out my "Where in the World" page.

Edit: While looking at other blogs, I was reminded of Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery and the Little House series by Laura Ingalls Wilder.  Both excellent armchair travelling aides! 

The Belton Estate

Trollope

The Belton Estate 

Anthony Trollope 

1866  

5/5 stars

On the face of it, this is the story of a love triangle between Clara and two very different suitors -- and yet it's so much more.  Clara is spirited and determined, but a family tragedy makes her dependent in different degrees on the various men in her life.  She must navigate new experiences and emotions while still staying true to herself.  Through Clara, Trollope compassionately shows the difficulty a Victorian woman faced when trying to make decisions regarding her future.   

The characters are believable and well-rounded, filled with goodness and flaws.  The book is witty, intelligent, and engrossing. Though it seems like a commonplace plot, it was so well-written that it kept me riveted throughout.  I absolutely loved it.

Let's Talk Bookish: Reading with Friends

 Let’s Talk Bookish is a weekly bookish meme created co-hosted by Dinipandareads and Book Nook Bits. 

Today's topic is "reading with friends" and asks about group reads, buddy reads, and online reading groups.

My husband and I have done buddy reads in the past, sometimes with two copies of the same book, sometimes taking turns, and previously we used to listen to audiobooks together in the evenings.  I love having someone to discuss a book with, so I'm very fortunate he'll join me.

After years, I talked my Mom into reading Dracula (one of my favorite novels), so I did a refresher of it while she read it, and we enjoyed talking about it.

Other than that, though, in-person discussions like book clubs or Bible study groups are not for me.  I'm too introverted these days to be able to enjoy it.

Online discussions are different, though.  In December, I participated in a group read of The Cricket on the Hearth (Charles Dickens) on Bookstagram (my account) and enjoyed the experience immensely. I did very little actual contributing to the conversations, but liked seeing what other people had to say. 

This month, I've joined another group that is reading A Man of Property by John Galsworthy.  The Forsyte Saga has been on my TBR for some time now, so I was glad to be encouraged to finally read it.  I'm trying to keep up with the group chat and want to actually participate since the group isn't as large as the Dickens group was.

I was also been fortunate enough to buddy-read Castle Rackrent by Maria Edgeworth with a Bookstagram friend.  We had an interesting discussion about it and I hope to read with her again sometime.

So, for me, I enjoy reading with others so I can discuss my feelings and pose questions -- just not in person.  How about you?

Top Ten Tuesday: Topography

 Top Ten Tuesday is a feature hosted by Jana at That Artsy Reader Girl.

Today's Top Ten Tuesday prompt is "book covers featuring cool/pretty/unique/etcetera typography".  My focus, as always, is on books that I own so that I can share my original photos and I have some in my collection that are just perfect for this prompt.

1. This first one is a Barnes & Noble collectable edition, and the font is just perfect for the cover.

2. & 3.These next two photos show Canterbury Classics Word Cloud editions, which I love just entirely for the typography! 

  

4. This is a reprinted journal full of drawings, and the font on the front is meant to look like the handwriting in the book.

5.  The sweeping letters of this vintage edition give the feel of flying, to my mind.

6. The title's font is just perfect for this one!  (my review here)

  

7. There is not much that is lovelier than antique covers with gorgeous fonts!

8. This is one of my childhood favorites, and the font style and placement suits it wonderfully.

9. Another childhood favorite with a full-of-character font.

10.  This oversized vintage edition has perfect typography!

What about you?  Do you love fonts and typography, too?  Have you seen any of these editions?  Do you have any favorites of your own?

January 2026 Wrap Up

Books Read:

Famous Last Words by Gillian McAllister (2025)  4/5 stars

This thriller gripped me from the beginning and never let go.  Was it realistic, or plausible, or even believable?  Nope.  But it was totally compelling, completely engaging, and thoroughly enjoyable.

On Wings of Devotion by Roseanna M. White (2020)  4/5 stars

The Codebreakers, book #2 

This Christian novel of romantic suspense follows one of the characters introduced in The Number of Love (my review here).  I had really enjoyed that one, but to me, it didn't feel like WWI.  The author made a much more believable atmosphere with this book, and the plot was gripping, interesting, and even moving.  I enjoyed it tremendously.

Mr. Campion's Farewell by Mike Ripley (2014)  4/5 stars

Mr. Campion series, book 1

This is a continuation of Margery Allingham's Campion series and it felt so much like one of the original adventures that it was hard at times to remember that it wasn't.  This is the second one of Ripley's that I have read and it certainly won't be my last.

 

The Story of the Glittering Plain by William Morris 1890/1891 (first published as a magazine serial)  4/5 stars  (my review here)

Israel Zangwill

The Big Bow Mystery by Israel Zangwill (1892)  5/5 stars

also published as The Perfect Crime

I absolutely loved this mystery.  The writing is witty, sometimes laugh-out-loud funny, the build up nicely done, and the solution clever.  I've seen negative reviews that don't take into account the fact that this is an early locked-room mystery, written well before it was a popular trope, and that the solution would have been novel and shocking at the time.   I highly recommend it for fellow fans of Victorian novels and early detective stories.

Castle Rackrent by Maria Edgeworth (1800)  4/5 stars  (my review here)

The Ivory Child by H. Rider Haggard (1916)  4/5 stars

In this adventure, Allan Quatermain must defeat a massive god-like elephant, help a win a tribal war, and rescue an Englishwoman from an ancient cult.  It's a great yarn, well-written like all of Haggard's Quatermain novels, and even moved me to tears three times.  It was completely engrossing, and though some attitudes are dated, I enjoyed it immensely.  

Audiobooks Completed:

Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1932)  4/5 stars (my review)

Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1935)  4/5 stars (my review)

On the Banks of Plum Creek by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1937)  4/5 stars (my review)

By the Shores of Silver Lake by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1939)  4/5 stars (my review)

The Long Winter by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1940)  4/5 stars (my review)

Little Town on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1941)  4/5 stars (my review)

Did Not Finish:

The Mistletoe Countess by Pepper Basham

This is a popular book in my corner of bookstagram, and I was on the library waiting list for some time.  Unfortunately, I didn't care for the female main character's over-the-top naivete combined with her mature reactions to the male main character.  It's hard to explain, but suffice it to say that it wasn't to my taste.  This is a reminder to me that I've already tried it, so when it pops up on my radar again I won't feel like I'm missing out. 

Six by Laura Ingalls Wilder

Wilder in 1885, around age 18

This month I decided to reread the Little House on the Prairie series on audiobook.  I managed to read six of the eight, running straight through them with pure pleasure.

Wilder wrote from her experiences as a child living in Wisconsin, travelling West to Missouri and Kansas, and finally settling in the Dakota territory.  She was a gifted story-teller, bringing events vividly to life and creating memorable books.

So far, they've all been 4 star books for me and, despite dated attitudes, very entertaining.

Little House in the Big Woods 

Little House series, book 1

This sweetly written, gentle glimpse into the past is a pure pleasure to (re)read. 

Little House on the Prairie  

Little House series, book 3

Despite Ma's vehement dislike of Native Americans, it's still an enjoyable read, full of fascinating information and slices of life from a time so unlike today.

On the Banks of Plum Creek 

Little House series, book 4; Newbury Medal Nominee

Sometimes funny, sometimes heartbreaking, this is another enjoyable book with memorable characters and situations that details a way of life so far removed from ours now.

By the Shores of Silver Lake 

Little House series, book 5; Newbury Medal Nominee

It stars off depressing, and sensitive readers may have a hard time with the first couple of chapters.  (I know I did.)  However, it gives an interesting account of what went into settling the Dakota territory as the Ingalls family leaves their comfortable house at Plum Creek, near to a town, to go further West for a  homestead claim.

The Long Winter 

Little House series, book 6; Newbury Medal Nominee

This is one of my favorite books of the series, as, despite the dangers and deprivations of the harsh winter, the Ingalls family pushes through with determination, cheerfulness, and resilience.   It's a memorable story, serious but still enjoyable.

Little Town on the Prairie

Little House series, book 7; Newbury Medal Nominee

Following that long winter, the Ingalls family enjoys two prosperous summers, and two mild winters.  Laura makes good friends in town and works hard toward earning a teacher's certificate.  It's a more lighthearted story than previous ones, with less focus on homesteading than on the life of a new town.  It's another well-written and entertaining book, though with some dated attitudes.

Top Ten Tuesday: Discoveries in 2025

 Top Ten Tuesday is a feature hosted by Jana at That Artsy Reader Girl.

Today's Top Ten Tuesday prompt is "Bookish Discoveries I Made in 2025".  Here are my favorite of the new-to-me authors I found last year.

1. Celeste Baxendell, a no-spice romantic-fantasy author, was a top discovery of last year.   This Rotting Heart (my review) and Ties of Starlight  (my review) were both five star reads for me.  That's all I've read by her so far, but I highly recommend both.

2. Mike Ripley wrote a continuation of Margery Allingham's Campion series.  I first read Mr. Campion's Christmas in December and loved it enough to continue the series this month.  I'll definitely be reading more of his Campion stories.

3. I first enjoyed the Western non-magical fairy tale retellings by Rachel Kovaciny (her site) last year, as well.  So far, I've only read two of her series and one stand alone, but loved them all. 

4. Roseanna M. White writes Christian historical fiction.  I first read The Number of Love in February, and enjoyed two more of her books last year. 

5. I stumbled across Gladys Mitchell last year, too.  She was a Golden Age mystery writer, sadly neglected now, with a morally gray main character, Mrs. Bradley.  If you decide to try these out -- some of which are very good -- you MUST start with the first one, Speedy Death, to appreciate Mrs. Bradley to the fullest.  

6. Dorothy Eden was a popular gothic romantic-thriller writer who wrote a large amount from the 1940s through the 1980s.  I just discovered her last year when I was in the mood for just such novels, and devoured seven of them.  Yes, they are often silly and melodramatic, but I found them a great deal of fun.  Cat's Prey and An Afternoon's Walk were my favorites. 

Castle Rackrent by Maria Edgeworth

Maria Edgeworth

Castle Rackrent 

Maria Edgeworth 

1800

4/5 stars

  

This short novel is the rambling account of four generations of an Irish landowning family told in first-person by a long-serving retainer. 

The often unreliable narrator is well-written, and Edgeworth used the vernacular to great effect, while still painting a vivid, intelligible picture of the characters and situations.  The satiric footnotes and word definitions added so much to the overall tongue-in-cheek humor.  

I had expected a more serious book, given that the subject is irresponsible and negligent landlords, but I laughed out loud several times and found it to be quite enjoyable overall.   

My only complaint was the brevity of the tales of the first three Rackrent lords.  Had that been expounded on, with the same wit and style, it would have been a five star read for me.

- read for The Classics Club and Reading Through the Centuries -

The Story of the Glittering Plain by William Morris

The Story of the Glittering Plain 

or The Story of the Glittering Plain which has been also called the Land of Living Men or the Acre of the Undying 

William Morris

1890/1891 (first published as a magazine serial)

4/5 stars

This is a fantasy taking place in a mythical medieval time about the knight Hallblithe, who goes in search of his kidnapped betrothed. Following her trail, he meets with pirate-warriors and eventually accompanies one of them to the Glittering Plain, a utopia of sorts where youth is regained for eternity. After a year of disheartening adventures, he escapes this land and continues his quest to be reunited with his love.

I wouldn't consider this an allegory, though it reminds me a great deal of both Spenser's Faerie Queene and George MacDonald's Phantastes. Through my own fault, no doubt, I failed to perceive the pro-socialist message that is reportedly part of this tale, and saw only a chivalrous tale in the reminiscent of both the King Arthur stories and Greek mythology.

Morris chose an archaic prose style, fitting for the subject and creating an unearthly effect.  The characters were two-dimensional, but again, that was fitting for this type of story.  Overall, I enjoyed it a good deal, especially his descriptions and storytelling and look forward to reading more of work in the future.

- read for both the Mount TBR challenge and the Key Word Reading Challenge (link to both) -

My 2026 Goal and Three Reading Challenges

My goal for this year is a big one: to spend no money on books.  

This is huge for me, and I know it's going to be hard, but I have a huge backlog of Kindle books to read and quite a few nonfiction paper books, and I need to focus on whittling down all these unread treasures.  With the 1000 or so unread e-books, plus access to a good library system, I'm not going to run out of reading material.  

I may have to adjust my goal in regards to audiobooks later in the year, depending on how quickly I run through what I own.  We'll see how that goes.

Since I own so many, I have forgotten a lot of what I have.  To help me out, I made a Lucky Dip TBR jar.  I typed out and cut into strips over 150 authors/titles of Kindle books.  When I need a bit of help deciding what to read next, I'll just pull one out and see what I get.

Another way I'm going to help myself read what I own is to participate in a these three challenges.  I'll probably not be able keep up with them all but it's fun to have a little prompt when I'm thinking about what to read next.  I'll come back to the page I made for these challenges and add the books I read for the prompt.

2026 Key Word Reading Challenge by Chapter Adventure

The point of this one is to read a book with a certain word in the title.  The graphic below shows the monthly choices.

Calendar of Crime by My Reader's Block

This challenge is for mystery books only.  This spreadsheet shows the ten topics to pick from for each month.  I've got an enormous amount of Golden Age mysteries to read, so this might be a fun way to whittle them down.

Mount TBR by My Reader's Block

This challenge is just to encourage reading books already owned.  I'll be working toward the Mt. Ararat level.  

Challenge Levels: 

Pike's Peak: Read 12 books from your TBR pile/s 

Mount Blanc: Read 24 books from your TBR pile/s 

Mt. Vancouver: Read 36 books from your TBR pile/s 

Mt. Ararat: Read 48 books from your TBR pile/s 

Mt. Kilimanjaro: Read 60 books from your TBR pile/s 

El Toro*: Read 75 books from your TBR pile/s (*aka Cerro El Toro in South America) 

Mt. Everest: Read 100 books from your TBR pile/s 

Mount Olympus (Mars): Read 150+ books from your TBR pile/s