C.J. Milbrandt's Blog, page 9
August 17, 2023
#amreading alphabetically
Starts with B. Gotta admit, I love a reading challenge. The A to Z Reading Challenge at Great Middle Grade Reads is one I’ve participated in annually. Here are some “B” books I’ve read and enjoyed.

Curious about what I’m reading next? Follow me on Goodreads.
August 16, 2023
Deuce Update
New Chapter. After a short break because of RL busyness, updates have resumed for Deuce, a Galleries of Stone prequel that goes back to the summer when both Aurelius and Ulrica were vying for piercing.

Access to new/unlocked chapters begins at the Deuce tier on Patreon. If you’re able to join the Journeymen tier, you’ll be treated to Travis Baldree’s narration of the story. CJ on Patreon >>
August 14, 2023
Why are you smiling?

Elza and I love games almost as much as we love reading middle grade books. You’ll find more of these over on Middle Grade Carousel and our associated social media. Follow us and play along! ~CJ
August 13, 2023
A to Z Reading Challenge
Pick a Letter. I’ve always liked the A to Z Reading Challenge at Great Middle Grade Reads. There are a lot of different ways to get the list done. Last year, I tried reading in alphabetical order, but that grew frustrating pretty quickly. I’d always be running across a book that sounded so *interesting,* but it didn’t start with the right letter. Made me grumpy. : )
Here are three books that start with “A” … all of which I enjoyed:

Do you ever participate in reading challenges?
August 12, 2023
#amreading by genre
Personal Favorite. I read all kinds of books, but I definitely have a special place in my heart for paranormal mysteries. Do you have a favorite genre?

August 11, 2023
ART: I Want Frey
There’s Something in the Galleries. When I brought FoxOfTwilight a proposal for a piece of art for this scene in Meadowsweet, I was enormously pleased with the results. Here’s a peek. The full illustration is under the cut. Have a look?

In Galleries of Stone, statues are people, too! More magic mountains, master sculptors, and found families can be had in both Galleries of Stone (complete in 3 volumes) and the new sequel series, Journeymen of Stone, Bk1: Farley.

I Want Frey | ar...
August 10, 2023
If-Then Reads
One good book can lead to another! Are you all about theater reads? These books both include stage productions!

August 9, 2023
Deuce
Galleries Prequel. Those who are supporting my storytelling via Patreon have the chance to read a serial that answers the question … how did Aurelius & Ulrica meet? Today, an audio chapter posted, narrated by Travis Baldree. Are you reading (or maybe even listening) along? Thanks! Lots.

August 8, 2023
BINGO progress
First Column. I find it easier to make a BINGO if I take a little time at the beginning of the month to create a mock full-cover board. I fill each square with titles that are already on my home shelves or waiting for my attention on my e-reader. Then, I choose the column or row I’m most excited about and … read!
August is already going well. (I haven’t quite finished Hummingbird yet, but maybe if I fold some laundry, I can squeak in some extra reading time!)

How do you choose what to...