C. (Comment, never msg).’s Comments (group member since Jan 30, 2014)

C. (Comment, never msg).’s comments from the Gentle SPECTRUMS group.

We are obviously close friends because we harmonize on important notes, including music but I had to laugh at what you say you look for in novels: gack! Fake historical fiction and war, which I am against - further than preferring relating to modern adventure, would make me put a book back, Canadian or not! There were a few war stories besides this and the humour and heart of the show "M*A*S*H", I was able to enjoy reading.

Most notably, our friend, Dr. Stephan Carter, authored a book on early medicine in Winnipeg and how he escaped the holocaust: "From Warsaw To Winnipeg: A Tale Of Two Cities". Although Christian, war was a horror for everyone and one of my closest friend's Mom escaped too. Like Amy's characters, two of her beloved children went to Heaven on their way out. Can you imagine dealing with that loss and not even arranging a burial you could revisit over time? War is no joke. I wish people would stop supporting made-up stories about it. They will if we stop buying them. There are too many real stories to read, if you can bear it.

Two you have in your room that I am surprised you aren't leaping to are Gabriel Roy's "The Tin Flute" and Hugh McLennan's "Barometer Rising" but please finish Izzy's dog health book as a priority first! Dr. Allport makes them easy and engaging to read all the way, not only the items we are interested in on behalf of our loved-ones.

Amy did not recycle the constantly reused European and North American viewpoint, so I grant showing how Asia suffered and triumphed afterwards. If you know someone who was there, fine but the "popular trope" is disrespectful and has to go. Phyllis A. Whitney often wrote of war but again, she was born in Japan, lived in China, and had American Parents; giving us a unique, firsthand representation in her educational fiction. She lived to 104 and was old enough to have witnessed it.

Yes, you must see horse stories presented incorrectly, just like most poems or joke books about cats are insulting stereotypes that were never correct. I have never had a cat who did not care about me and our family. They are the most generous, respectful, nurturing, and loyal with their time and love for us all. Anyone who doesn't see that doesnn't know cats. Of course they will hide under a sofa or on top of a closet if they are unaccustomed to kids, or don't know the person stopping by to do repairs or whatnot.

Actually, everyone except Love & Angel (the first time someone stopped by) would greet people. McCartney, Conan, and Marigold gave polite greetings. Petal greets you at face level. You had to pretty well lift Spirit's head out of your purse or toolbox. We have not had a visitor park a purse here in awhile but Mom's treating of them with catnip or tuns cans is forever in their hearts. If you set down a purse, all of our cats will be looking inside it as soon as possible, to this day, God bless you, Mom. They surrounded her and she said "Okay! I'll give you your treats"! You have seen photographs of Dad tossing crunchies to them too and all seven of them, waiting for Dad to throw one to each of them in turn next. God bless you too, Dad, for making them Grandchildren for you.

When buying books, I am open and interested in many stories, especially if they are Canadian, or New Zealanders, as you know. Wear your t-shirts on July 1: this Canada Day is going to be bonkers!

Once I own a book, I prefer to be surprised and skip the synopsis. Not only animal behaviour and emotional make-up but a human's too need to make sense. You are right that a doctor might confide in his wife a little about how her friend is faring but should avoid saying much. Here, there was no excuse, because Doug referred Pearl to a friend!

Someone my Brother knows, who worked at a vet associated with Thumbelina's, got in trouble for asking him privately, why I did not believe in euthanasia and this is the reason confidence needs to stay intact. At the most sensitive time in my life, when I was glad to find a team that respected my beliefs and knew I wanted to take care of my baby the best we all could; I was horried that someone may have doubted my loyalty with remarks about me. I phoned my vet's office and said I heard someone asked about me. An assistant reassured me that they know I love my baby and that no one would talk down about me. I discussion was had and someone else phoned to reassure me that they spoke to that person about being careful and it would never happen again. My baby was going to Heaven naturally already, nothing we knew how to do to save her. My emotions were splintered and I needed all the respect, understanding, and love available.

I worked in the office of a stock broker for a time and recognized a few names. The person training me warned me that we might recognize people from time to time but must never say anything to anyone, or them. We don't want anyone uncomfortable that we pay attention to their finances nor will divulge it anywhere.

When someone we know spoke to a therapist by phone one time, they started with an introduction to their confidentiality. They said they would not say "Hello" to them in public, unless they went up to the therapist, so that no one would know they have spoken to one unless they were certain they were comfortable about it.

I took a photo with my staff at Christmas, in the translation department of the air force. They smiled for it and afterwards, one especially covert department thought twice about it. They asked if I would delete that photo but I had a film camera. I reassured them that I was only putting it in my personal photo album as a souvenir; never on-line. I don't recall their name and always honour and respect what people need. I am fair with etiquette.

There are a lot of good Parent bonds in books and it is fun to think about them. I wrote that so many bitchy interactions are focused on that I don't want to see any more of them. Let's have fun with this.

Sophie Kinsella's protagonist has wonderful, warm, intelligent Parents.
The Parents & Inlaws of Nancy Atherton's series are the sweetest.
Kate Carlisle traipses her colourful Parents and numerous Siblings into her mysteries.
Parental love is always tight in Phyllis A. Whitney's books.
Harry Potter hugs every memory of his Parents.

Hm, it is seemling like warm family bonds are the majority in literature. The fighting ones are out of place; maybe this is why they are distasteful. I wish authors would stop inventing a deceased Parent whom children miss and keep both of them. The adopted Parents of an Asian Son in Kate Milford's series are sweet. I might put the gigantic Stephen King hardcover on pause now and again and pull out the next Kate Milford paranormal mystery!

Your slow progress is in tandem with my scarce reading this year. That is frustrating because since a year or two ago, when you found other things to do as I prayed you would, I saw a chance to kick your as, haha. I think I came out a little ahead last year, using children's and short web freebies. I still polish three-hundred words on each. This year in particular, I closed my gap with a good push here & there, to make space for the required slow down of tackling "The Stand: Extended".

Kindly warning me of your absence today, additionally allows me to pop in again and add conversations that will be ready for you to rejoin our tête à tête. You likely know this French expression, literally "heads together". The meaning is "collaboration", "one on one or private, intimate chat"!

I am slipping in to ask about your choice of the verb "concerned with" authors. It is only an adjective but I am unconcerned and unbothered about how authors books, no differently from you. I wonder what your impression of my interest in knowing their identity, via birthplace or home country is.

My curiousity about what you look at when you sit down and open a book, is different than what I look at to decide if I would buy it or not. At that time, I scrutinize the synopsis and might cautiously look at reviews to satisfy concerns: is it paranormal or only sounded like there are ghosts. I want to know all the animals and people live to the end of a happy story. If I am hesitant about genre or contents, supporting a Canadian author turns the tide. It is worth trying it out whether I like the book or not.

If I own the books and have chosen them to read next, I avoid synopsises. I glance for a reminder of the page count, original publishing year, and author nationality. I want to know who is telling the story, what the geographic atmosphere and authenticity are, and the experience and perspective the author is going to bring. My interest is not trivial or picky. It has a helpful purpose.

Louise Penny, a proud fellow Canadian and dual language speaking to boot, got winter and cold spring weather really wrong in her second and third novels (my least favourites). It was as if she came from a warmer region or did not winter here. Yes, her weather might have been all right for seasons in Quebec but her notion on what was cold, which animals are not hibernating, the temperature at which windows can be opened were incorrect. Do you see what I mean?

I am about half an hour from finishing our novel. My eyes could not focus anymore, last night. Pushing them to for an hour or more, by rubbing them, adding water to them, and cleaning my reading glasses. I think that caused dizzyness and slight queasyness this morning. I arose late and started with water to be sure I am all right and then I ate soup. I am ready for a full meal.

I had a nice promenade outside in the wind with Ron, Petal, Angel. Mother garter snake visited us too. She hid so well when we walked past, only I saw her and Angel stepped lightly on her, startling both kitties, ha ha. Ron put my Parents' trellis fence across the west library flowerbed, where the vines and flowers abound beautifully now.

The resting place is glowing with natural colours too. I found a few wild strawberries and enjoyed them thrillingly, strolling in bare feet.

I can't wait to finish this book and suggest you lead the rest of our discussions, dear Kerri. I will still contribute food for thought and opinions that spoil nothing. Keep updating your book at Goodreads, which permits me to know your page distance, whether you post or not.

We know a gradient of ten stars would be better because part of choosing a pleasure level is comparison, which does not always work out. It is hard to explain that I think I might give this novel four stars but liked it far better than "The Joy Luck Club". I am racing through "The Kitchen God's Wife", to the point of being dizzy but gave "The Joy Luck Club" five stars because I was thrilled that the baby Sisters were found alive at the end, by the protagonist and her beloved Dad.

For example, I am emotionally riveted to Winnie's story and it is in a way, more positive and smooth to flow through. We like her, root for her, and know she escapes everything but child loss. I would prefer some interaction with Pearl as she listens and poses questions a monolgue lets Winnie plow straight through storytelling. I like that we aren't shaken out of the flow by tyrning to four other protagonists, although I appreciated meeting 3/4 of the ladies in "The Joy Luck Club". I considered giving our current novel five stars, despite too frequent reference to killing and eating animals; especially needlessly hitting ducklings with a truck, for pete's sake. The issue is this.

You saw that Winnie called the evil ex-spouse, at the beginning of her story, Pearl's sire. Where I am in the novel, Pearl lost all other children, as you know she would but evaded the bastard at last. It suggests that the creep shows up again this near the finish lines and was able to commit assault. I am angry about that and will read past it fast. No one likes stories or movies in which a bad guy strikes, no matter how hard heroes work to overcome all of it.

Pearl faced situations of his negativity and control a few times in a way that I think legal intervention should most certainly have been available, no matter that it was 1946. Some extremes, after being through a damn war, were "Come on, I don't think so!" scenarios. This is also how I feel about the longer lasting child not making it. It was as needless and outside of the story's war and abuse, as losing the ducklings.

Unless the last 46 pages impress me, my feeling is four stars. That is really good for me, considering all the contents. I did not expect pre-war China or war to be easy and peaceful on animals or humans. I would have given "The Secret Hundred Senses" five stars for originality and emotional connection, if Amy had not pointlessly, stupidly added that the protagonist accidentally killed turtles. You know what a pass I am giving a novel of abuse, eating weird food, and death.

A diagnosis, especially not fatal and only a "maybe" to monitor, is no one's business. Winnie would make it worse, against Pearl keeping calm and normal. I would not worry my kind, helpful, supporting Parents unless things were serious. This was self preservation, far from cruel.

Only Mary and Doug, who referred a specialist, were told. "Everyone but Winnie" is untrue. Mary blabbed, no fault of a family pal who needed one confidant.

They aren't strained. Most people brace themselves among various personslities or subjects to sidestep. If your family is harmonious, it is rare. Like Pearl, I stood ready to enjoy my folks, if their challenging sides were away. It was outside narrating but when Winnie wanted to talk in person, Pearl went.

Besides these two bits, I concur with everything else. Winnie should not be impossibly pessimistic and hard to talk to. Turning her into the protagonist thereafter, I do sympathize with her past, in a world of survival deference to purported female subordination. Winnie was right, there were moments when witnesses should have stood up for her and her babies. She was brave, strong, and astutely cautious.

I am glad you recorded your points first. I could reply after and you can include this when you do likewise.

I guess there are chapters but they are too big to give us breaks. Pages numbers are better markers. I am almost at page 200.

I am liking the story of Pearl's Mom's life, except as usual in China, it was injust and hard. That is not the good part. I love the warmth of Pearl's Mom sitting down to tell it. I wish Amy did not divide things into long monologues. I would like to see Pearl's reaction and input along the way.

I won't write more than this in a storm but this is my general impression: I am following the story this woman is weaving.

I disagree that a resourceful, creative, intelligent person cannot tell many things without spilling the few details she wants to herself. It is like I urge you with reviews, to stop "spoiler blocking" on things that can and should be public. There is a way to say a lot without giving away what you want to be private. It is the art of review writing that I strive for. After all, people should know that the comment boxes below reviews are meant FOR open book conversations. Future book readers simply should not look at those remarks.

It would have been easy to say "Helen is not a relative but knew me in China". She could tell her husband and kids and leave it out of people at church. It is no one else's business but is not "complicated to explain" like she claimed. People like Mary and Helen are stupid if they say they can't tell a story without spilling beans.

I used to nod with friendliness at everyone I passed in office buildings. I am someone people confide in to remarkable lengths and I am kind about it. You wouldn't believe what people reveal and if I am a good listener, shoulder, or morale booster; I am living life right and glad to help other beings. A vending machine person shared a daily word in passing when I worked in one area. I think I told this story on the subject of people not having basic ingenuity, in another discussion!

He got quiet when I moved buildings but still saw him in that vending machine alcove. I was given no reason to not chat as usual. I asked politely how he fared at an exam he had studied for on his own time. He glared and stopped speaking all together. I passed him a day or so later and limited things to a polite nod. He approached me and said "I'm not happy with you!" I could not fathom why not and waited for an explanation.

He said I "almost cost him his job by asking about his exam"! I thought "What is wrong with asking that"? He said another vending machine employee overheard (who I merely recalled seeing ON TOP of a vending machine out of the corner of my eye). He asked what the exam was about and it was my fault, that he was an idiot and gave away details? He could have said anything else: "None of your business", a medical or dental appointment, his children's school test....

That is how I feel about anyone who lies about paternity or who thinks they must hide a world about themselves, when skipping a detail or two is all it takes.

I also hate the woman's loser attitude! Because a former husband died on the date of Christmas, she calls it an unlucky reminder? For Pete's sake, Christmas is the best time to rise above other trivialities and be the postive, preferred focus for herself! I hate loser, fatalistic attitudes in books. Thankfully, it has been long since I saw such a thing in real life.

I do not think I have seen chapters, only a handdrawn page indicating a segue from time to time. I am nearing page 90 of my paperback and think it is a good time to take another short update step. There is little to spoil for one another, by not prolonging sharing until we are juggling an entire novel's review.

A fun addition: I found the hardcover of "The Bonesetter's Daughter" and put my softcover in our library, to sell.

I am enjoing Amy Tan, besides some American tendencies that you already know I avoid. "Backwards / towards" without S, "colour / honour" without U, and Amy is annoying me by using "whether" without OR NOT after it. If I hear "sorted" without OUT after it too much more, it might pass the patience barrier but it is minor compared to misspelled "backwards" and "whether" without OR NOT. If you don't accompany it with "or not", you use "if"!!!! I wonder "IF" he is playing sports today. There, the grumble is aired out and gone.

My first Amy novel you know, was "The Hundred Secret Senses". A young Sister felt embarrassed by an enthusiastic 18 year-old half-Sister, whom her Dad located in China. In her grown years, she had the white husband but no children. The three go on an awesome quest that becomes deliciously paranormal. Had this not been my introduction, I would think Amy wrote in the "Joy Luck Club" style about picky Moms all the time; like Martha Brooks writes about tuberculosis too often. I wondered, does anyone write about or portray warm, friendly, affectionate, easygoing Moms? It is fun to consider them.

Merely different in personality from Sheldon, Mary Cooper is very affectionate and supportive; on "The Big Bang Theory" and "Young Sheldon". George Cooper is a sweetheart, as are Penny's Parents and Mr. Hoffsteader.

I strongly disliked Deborah Barone but loved her Parents. Also, although Amy had to express her spiritual freedom, her Mom is warm and sturdy too.

Everyone on "Happy Days" loved Marian Cunningham (who is still alive, among other cast)! I don't recall if we saw on "Friends", Joey Tribiani's Parents (only his great Grandma) but they were said to be warm and so were Chandler's Parents. They are a lot of great Parents on TV and in literature, so those who present the annoying stereotypes are the ones who are outdated and pushing an unpleasant trope too far for my liking. I don't care if there is a reason they were intrusive or easily offended; that excuse ran out decades ago.

I am especially through with people and characters who don't speak up and ask friends and relatives to stop the stress that comes from them. It seems easy to say to a pal your age like Mary: "I was diagnosed with something that might affect me in the future. Do not tell anyone and do not think about it at all. If it developed, I would tell you if I want help, or for you to keep on treating me normally, thank you".

To her Mom, it is long due to explain "I miss Dad every day. No, we should not have lost him when we were only children. However, let us mourn him and miss him, or remember him with refreshed happiness. Your way of constantly scouring the past for a superstition that caused it, makes talking about him around you impossible. Please keep that to yourself. It makes us uncomfortable and spoils the chance to smile about him".

I am enjoying this novel but it is nice to have a place to air out the few weaknesses. Pearl was told at the last minute that her Great-Aunt's body would not be shown but who asks after you bring kids out of town? In case there was a viewing, who doesn't explain to their kids what death and a funeral are like? Who would freeze and not know what to say, if they did make surprised remarks at a service? Amy did not portray Pearl as a seasoned Mom, used to anything, if she couldn't handle their reactions and did not prepare them for it!

I was ticked off at her husband for waiting until they were in town, to ask if the girls should go to it. It was also stupid not to ask if they needed to go to the washroom.

Like I felt with my folks sometimes, I understood Pearl wanting to enjoy relatives, if their behaviour weren't unthoughtful. When my Parents let us laugh, joke, play, and enjoy each other; they are the times that build the memories we keep in our hearts.

I am angy with Helen. If you demanded details from Mary, you keep them to yourself. You don't tell Pearl she must inform her Mom of a future disease she won't stay quiet about. This was the reason for not telling Helen, or spilling the beans unintentionally.

If Parents want to visit more often, be fun. Notice what makes people uncomfortable and bring out the best, so we can't wait to be together more and more.

As a young lady, Pearl's Mom fretted her mind about what life might have been like if her Great-Aunt had not dissuaded her from marrying a neighbour on their Chinese island. I get grieving someone from you past and missing them every day. I do not abide fretting over a decision made that is well in the past. Do what you can with the present and the tools you have right now.

I am enjoying getting to know these people, although Mary & Douglas seem like unintentional cads, like our former friends. It started that way with them as I related to you: little rudenesses that did not occur to them over a decade, more trespasses but being so kind and fun in other ways, we disregarded it. Then, deal breakers that made me if not my spouse, glad to break free of them wholly. If Mary & Douglas are real friends, they get it: we will visit at family gatherings but are not a social foursome anymore.

I am on page 18 and love this book straight away, myself. Ron was patient about me coming to bed late but wanting to finally begin this novel, so I kept it short. Amy Tan's dynamics are a blend of "The Hundred Secret Senses" and "The Joy Luck Club". The former had a separated couple coming back together on a family trip to China. The husband was white and invested in their family. This husband is not estranged and they have two kids as well.

Like the latter book, the synopsis informs that we will go on a past journey of relatives. Most of us girls have a dear Mom who would do anything for us but could be bossy and offended, if we hesitate to value the same things. Like most family members period, there is no problem. There is a personality to navigate the challenging or demanding aspects of. That is more true of people's Dads including mine.

Showing information is Amy's talent, I notice herein. She did not narrate that Pearl picked up some Mandarin and Cantonese. She recognized another regional mix, I will look up with great interest. Pearl interprets some of a phone conversation when she gets to her Mom's flower shop. I hope you know you do not call "Chinese" a language. Like there is no "Philippino" either, their languages have names.

I asked and don't think I got an answer, what you look at before beginning to read books. I want to know. I acquaint the original year first. I note whether or not I have a first edition. I brace myself by knowing starting and completing page span, as if gauging the time I will put into this book. I must know the author's country of origin. I cheer if they are Canadian and am likelier to hesitate buying it. Wherever they are from, I like knowing the regional perspective and knowledge I will find within.

I look at these things well before reading and certainly need the original year for my home book list entries. When I am ready to pick up that book, I glance at the year and page span one more time. If it is a classic with explanations or introductions, I skip them in preservation of my own experience and absorption. Otherwise, I read every page onwards, beginning with dedications.

The most powerful information and most sensitive touch for me, came right off the top in Amy's dedication. I was sad that her Dad & her Brother went to the afterlife in 1968 and 1967! If you read every page when you begin a book, you would have seen it too. Amy is a little younger than my Mom but I was sorry to see that she nonetheless, ended up losing her Dad when she was only 16 years-old. Her Brother ascended at that awfully young age the year before him. What a sad time for her & her Mom, Daisy.

Yes, you have read two books that were about Moms: you write what you know. Her books are also very much about Dads. The Dad was the longliving one, journeying with the protagonist in "The Joy Luck Club". The Dad was around a good while in "The Secret Hundred Senses". Pearl's husband is a Father in our present book. I like that this novel is not about competitiveness or bitchiness, like some of the ladies in our previous Amy Tan buddy-read. I have also read the children's book "The Moon Lady" and all Parents are there along with Grandparents too.

Allons-y!

My friends, I touched on this in e-mail with Leeanne and likely with Kerri and Shirin too: I choose not to read negative and unpleasant things anymore. Seeing the word "handle" makes me want to caution against confusing that with weakness. I deem it healthy and wise to say NO to negativity wherever we can stop it. I do my best to keep it out of life. Please never mistake me for a weak person who can't "handle" grim situations. You know I already proved myself regarding that.

I wrote in this thread I think, that I made the decision to put my foot down about unpleasant content at Kerri's age. I used to read all kinds of things out of curiosity and education. I frankly think my Mom passed along some wrenching, despicable books about war survivors and so on, when I was too young. What I read haunted me for YEARS and I don't only mean torture you would expect. Separation from home, family, mementoes of them was big enough cruelty. When other kids were reading juvenile things or the "Sweet Valley High" series, I was into the shocking V.C. Andrews. I tended to be ahead of my age in what I read and it was dreadful content that I will not touch now.

Please don't ever forget that this is a choice. I have never wished I were less sensitive or ever thought I needed thicker skin. Honestly, I often hold back from saying to dear friends "What is wrong with you?" for frequently reading despressing crap. Maybe you will outgrow it too. Maybe you will be among those people who take to fictional horror and despicable true stories. I love the feeling of realizing that I can choose positive, feel good adventures and mysteries. I dislike sap too, so I like a serious tone in between but it MUST have a happy ending.

I thought of you two when I sob over an ancestry show occasionally, called "Long Lost Family". Getting emotions caught up in that might surprise you but the key is that they have HAPPY endings. Once in awhile, a good cry feels uplifting and clearing.

Look, the Blythe family was well off and doctors rural or not, make more than other careers. I can't fathom why Maud added the creepy Susan and kept her in her story. She introduced a lot of characters who disappeared, some of them we gladly got rid of, others we wanted to see more of. It had little to do with whether or not Anne & Gilbert could afford it: it wasn't the Canadian way. My family comes from a wide range of decades all over Canada and unless you were wealthy, hired help was not the done thing.

It is something I strongly felt Maureen Jennings got wrong in her "Murdoch Mysteries" series. The social classes, maids, and tea time made it sound like England, where she was raised. NONE OF MY RELATIVES CARED FOR TEA, as I wrote in those book conversations. I stave off anyone saying their family has adopted the current craze for tea, or that their older relatives had an actual "tea time", by specifying that this was something brought by the British and Asians. Tea was occasionally had by the old generations in my family but not like Maureen made it sound. Her books sound like England, if I didn't know that they should be Toronto. I am grateful to her creation of a television series my Parents loved but thankfully, the television show tapped the Canadian perspective back into place.

Anne & Gilbert did make disapproving noises at Susan regarding Matey, Jim's dear cat. Their reaction seemed to be that they didn't believe Susan would really harm him and urged her not to be superstitious. We think she should have been fired for the attitude towards animals or cats. Children SHOULD hug and bask in the love of family pets. My babyhood kitties helped make me the compassionate, respectful, sweet person I am.

I wrote to Leeanne that the synopsis of "Rainbow's End" referred to children preventing killing animals, which is disgusting and a heartwrenching thing for children to have to defend against. Therefore, I will not read that hardcover either. I thought that horror was in the final novel. "Before Green Gables" has abuse as well and I warn you that I have discovered "Emily Of New Moon" constantly wrote about killing kittens! "Anne Of Ingleside" is the final volume in my second childhood boxset and will be the last of these novels I read. I am undecided about reading them solo or with partners to get through it in soladarity!

I think I heard that fan appreciation pushed Maud to write more stories than she had planned to. It shows, if she had preferred to retire the series. It is different if an author likes being offered a reason to reprise characters or settings that she had stopped making. It is different if she was not done with them mentally but needed an outlet to expand their timelines. For example, I think "Harry Potter" could have been very enjoyable outside of a school setting, where Joanne thought she ought to finish it on a high note. I think our friends could be just as thrilling as a team of adults, some of them married, sharing mystery quests and using their talents to get rid of villains.

The shows "Schitt's Creek" and "Friends" ended while there was much more to show about the characters. Jennifer Aniston wanted to act in other things but watching Chandler & Monica in their house with babies would have been just as funny and warm. Some shows were rehashes of the same clashing or jokes and it made sense to conclude them. I think Maud's appreciation of her fans (rather than sales) pushed her to dust off characters. It is too bad she didn't seem keen to write more, or was not asked at a time when she felt the inspiration for it.

I hope to find a little bit of magic in "Anne Of Ingleside" from our favourite couple, their children, or animals. I enjoyed reading this one with you. Most of "Anne's House Of Dreams" was excellent and genuinely dreamy.

Hi Kerri! Surely it is clear I grew up with British shows too: also mixed with American and Canadian ones. Did you think I meant I recently watched silly old shows and quickly compared it to newer stuff? I spoke in past tense, far away. We too are a former colony with British connections. We don't get as many current music and shows but from what I saw, I still hated it. I politely refute that I would like their scripted humour better if I "saw it as a child" because I did. Unscripted, everyone is delightfully funny, thus God bless Graham Norton's show.

I am glad you are enjoying "Corner Gas". Which storyline was Jann Arden in? I don't remember her on it. It must have been a fast appearance, one of those flashbacks.

Thank you for saying "Clementines" are something besides an old cowboy song. Orange is one of my favourite colours obviously but I had heard of no such fruit. Trust a tropical country to clue me in on fruit.

As for red, I have been wanting a picture of you in your Canadian shirt and wondered about it when your letter wrote of sending many photos. It was uncanny to find you saying it here, when I came to Goodreads afterwards.

I am glad there are vacuum bags that improve storage. However, instead of cramming things to fit, I prefer assigning decent spots for what we keep. Mail helped, the next step is reducing paper in this office we don't need.

No sharing drinks either, eh? Well, people seldom do but I like the feeling of trust and community on the rare occasion a moment like that comes up. It is nice to know I can have a sip of something from Ron, childhood friends, or my Brothers if I want to quench thirst without having a drink to myself, or sample a flavour if there is no more left. I think I step in a nice balance between lacking the pre-pandemic paranoia, with a fearless freedom that my immunity is enough (or Donna has taught us how to boost it).... but also taught to be sanitary and careful by a safety conscious Mom. We have to respect the comfort level of others.

A nun, not me, would have given Rebecca a great consideration to ponder. Our home shows an abundance of our personalities, with space and price stopping us, as well as consideration of need. A nun would do better at showing her what it is like to want much less. Built into my psyche is deeming waste revolting, so I consider uses for some things I was not seeking to prevent discards. I prioritize gifting or giving items to those who will use and enjoy them. Recyling is the closest I go to discarding what could have usefulness in it. Thankfully, we draw a space and price line.

I feel that Sophie is not a good writer, making things up as she goes along that does not ring true in plotting or reality. She missed the gem of a peace and growth opportunity at the convent because Sophie writes cluelessly. Additionally, she prioritized what she thinks is humour or conflict that people enjoy seeing and is mistaken. We'll want to shout if she commits a lame trope about weddings: concern about her dress, the couple late for the ceremony or doubting each other's loyalty. Seeing the preview of having to muster courage to tell her Mom not to invite extras was enough for me to go "I'm letting that volume sit for awhile". I hope you find out at which volume Sophie got better.

I heard the same of Clive Cussler: the end of chauvanism and over the top crime villains can't come soon enough. This seems to be all I have to say in this book conversation. I have wanted to add one more post to "Anne's House Of Dreams" and must reply to yours and Shirin's finishing reactions in "Blue Lily". Our phone line was out of order back then.

I hoped for e-mail again this morning, since I replied as soon as your letter arrived. I would happily start "The Kitchen God's Wife" when you are available to chat several days in a row. I am going to start a new book tonight and only didn't yesterday because I was ready to sleep. It is nice to have seen Amy Tan speak of her family personally and her sweetness is fresh in my head.

I was a baby when those friends were in the order. I was the first infant they held. My Parents showed them how to do it. They retired after my Brother was born. They were at all birthdays until we were 18. As teachers, their focus was our French and education. I thought of asking about their nun life later. When I asked why numerous items were discouraged, they said the logic was "Why have all of that"?

I greatly appreciate the items that are personally meaningful to me. Others are useful. Liking many books, music, and films takes space; therefore I am pairing down. I would anyway but we have small rooms that challenge me to free up space sooner. I stock up on the items we do consume like books and music, if they are at good bargains. The books and music I don't keep will even out. You know we needed to quickly store family items. It is a challenge to clean our library enough to advertise for customers. I may sell some books on-line for pick-up: name a few authors. Different from Rebecca, I value and use what I bought in bulk, when prices were right.

Sophie Kinsella has great ideas for building personalities and stories she thinks are relatable but is not a strong writer. Ideas aren't enough if they don't work realistically, especially behaviour. The convent should have been the jewel moment of the novel. We would like Rebecca for enjoying the quietude and pleasant conversation with a respectable elder. Rebecca would learn from the lady, a completely new consideration of want versus plenty. Get what you need and enjoy it. The Vera Wang dress had a happy memory for Rebecca as much as the scarf. She might have kept those and a basic wardrobe for all seasons.

The items I cherish poignantly are many. Price stops things I would highly enjoy. I deemed it worthwhile this Christmas to splurge on quality soaps and a healing gel that I am amazed with and grateful to have. Our skin is the largest organ: keep it healthy with pure, natural ingredients. They were Ron's gifts, which he likes, while also helpful to our household. We used the soaps and shampoos from my Parents.

You aren't more "aware of" immunity than Mom taught us to be. I meant we believe it is healthier and strengthens our immunity to get out in the world. Stay away from known colds or infections of course. But to never share products because "someone might have an unseen cold" means being wary for life and I refuse that. I'll simply respect not borrowing some (or any?) of your makeup. I understand the worry you were born under.

Think of the boy in "The Secret Garden". Think of what Donna Eden teaches about the radiant circuits and triple warmer of freedom and joy spreading through us. That boy did better when he played outside and dared to strain his stamina. I saw freedom and happiness work for Marigold, the last day of her dearly beloved life. After desperately giving her fluids, keeping her in bed would have felt glum. I let her outside and boy, did she perk up and play! She ran, jumped, and savoured the rains of sun and air in her favourite places. Thank goodness, when it turned out to be her last time.

When we moved, I took a few months to go back to the city. I always felt sick around cigarettes but saw how much resistance I had built, unknown until I stepped out of public. I went to my chiropractor and smoke on the sidewalk hurt in one of the worst headaches I remember having. We can't all live in nature, so it is good that city folks build resistance to some pollutants. Be outside enough, doing a little exercise or deep breathing, to empty toxicity out. I need to resume Donna's daily exercises to keep my energy, blood, lymph, and cerebrospinal fluid pumping.

It was the authoress, not Rebecca, who ruined the sweet moment with Luke in New York, if you see what I mean. They should have been alone speaking privately but I think each should have phoned the other before Rebecca thought of moving. London is as huge as New York, I think. I said I read of London personal shopping assistants in "Thirteen Little Blue Envelopes", in my last entry. She could have a dream job without moving.

See what can be salvaged of your relationship prior to creating a new life. Sophie in 2001, was far too late to entertain us with the "Run to the airport" cliché. "Friends" wrote it very creatively, with Ross playing his answering machine and wondering if Rachel flew or not. The last time I saw an airport scene portrayed convincingly was Michael Scott's departure from "The Office". Jim warned Pam that he suspected Michael was leaving that day, secretly.

For two books following one character's point of view, we saw NOTHING she likes doing besides shopping, not even a wonderful walking tour of New York. Rebecca mentioned watching "Friends" and loved the peace of the convent and was awed by the stained glass window.

Thank you for telling me about the show "Absolutely Fabulous". I don't find British comedy funny. Once you are over the shock of how nude or silly they were willing to get; it is boring. I couldn't take a whole episode of Ricky Gervais' version of "The Office" (I appreciate that he paved the way for my favourite one). The previews of their version of "Ghosts" look stupid. I think British television like "Call The Midwife" and action like "James Bond" and "Harry Potter" excels outside of comedy. The actors, comedians, and Graham on "The Graham Norton Show" are wonderfully funny; so it must be scripted comedy that is not for me.

David Schwimmer was the only thing in "Intelligence" not painful to watch; so unfortunately, it isn't that I only saw old-fashioned comedy. Some British people are naturally funny and I appreciate those candid settings. Watching them tell self-deprecating stories about themselves is wonderful. Including Patrick Stewart joking to "not be afraid" of the original length of his autobiography which was cut and how he and his Star Trek castmates still rib each other.

Rebecca primarily bought clothing but we didn't see her enjoying it beyond infatuation with brand names; except her scarf and Vera Wang dress creating memories for her. What the heck is "Clementine"? It isn't a colour or material. I worked in a clothing store. I had a discount but did not buy anything I didn't need and didn't make a dent in any paycheque, believe me. I would enjoy watching someone shop at a music store because we would see their excitement for singers. Even knowing one of these novels is about a baby, has me cringe because Rebecca will splurge on unneeded baby outfits.

I am boring but comfortable at home alone. You know I wear the same shirt and pants until I decide they need to go in the washer. I leave off makeup at home, unless we are taking home photographs, or having friends or family over. Shows and whatnot I have seen, remind me to be dressed and bathed before Ron is home and to spruce up my outfit sometimes. We are comfortable in sweats here, especially in winter but I want Ron to come home and be greeted by a nicely dressed lady once in awhile.

Clothing can mean a lot and as you complained in the first novel, Rebecca's clothes shopping is empty and mindless. Only when she styled Tarquin and the New York customers, did fashion intuition come out and be interesting for us. However, since I am not nuts about fashion, I like people to share more traits than that about themselves.

Rebecca should not blow off a tour of museums or city walking. I will only say I get that famous stores are fun for her to see in person, like famous places you & I have dreamed of seeing. Did I tell you about unthinkingly startling my penpal while he was driving? He picked me up from the airport and I had my first look at Los Angeles. He was freaked out that I screamed. He understood and regained his breath, after understanding that I'd had my first sight of the "Hollywood sign": in person! It is farther away that anyone images. Television makes it close-up. You would have to go to a special place and hike on a hill to sit on it. I saw it, a symbol I had grown up thinking of as a fantasy place that I was unlikely to visit! I was there!

It is occurring to me that it is best not to be the driver whenever I make my dreams come true. Ron was driving when I not only shouted but swore, upon my first sight of Stonehenge!

We can read "The Second Sisterhood Of The Travelling Pants" this spring. We are overdue to read "The Kitchen God's Wife". What do you say? I commented in several of your review spaces, including seeing your note that you have Amy Tan's book now.

Jann Arden is on "The Social" today, discussing a new album called "Jann's Mixtape". She is as instantly hilarious as always. When you are done watching and reading about plagues and other depressing things, I DID send you her first book. The fun thing is that she includes a cassette version of her "Mixtape" album literally! That is brilliant.

I have enough cassettes that I haven't played in years but think Ron, Mom, & I have a walkman between us that works. I have so many more Jann Arden songs to give you, keep playing the artists I have sent!

Now let me correct the impression of my grade: I hated the character, author's style, and her novel as much as you did. I only feel annoyed at "towards" without S. The two times Sophie wrote "backwards" without S were actual misophonia causes of pain. The first was while she was making up British customs at her drunk lunch.

Feel for me if you see those! Or "gently" where an act is already gentle; like meditating books or the gem one I am reading! Oh, that is revolting! Breathing and closing eyes are soft. What do they think we will do; crash out our breath and eyelids forcefully without that asinine specification?!!!! I'll be curious to know if you mind "The Ten Thousand Doors Of January" less, unless you are preturbed by the wasted adventure plot like I am and villains keeping up, like the worst cliché in any book. I know we are glad not to have each other's neurological problems! Thank you for feeling for me and I send you love, likewise.

I gave this novel two stars because it was no worse than the first one. It was better because Rebecca paid the debts, was doing well in the job she enjoyed, and had a good boyfriend. I could give no higher because she was as shallow, stupid, and out of control. Even though we hated this character and Sophie Kinsella's way of writing and many things defied credulity; one star is for the worst of the worse books. There was no animal, infant, or child lost or deceased, no abuse or assault. I leave the lowest grade for something disturbing and irredeemable, not a novel we thought was stupid. We need ten stars to grade properly.

It seems that we both can't help wanting to know if Rebecca shapes up. We like most of the characters besides her.

Rebecca had good instincts about Alicia being a person to dislike but she did not interfere with Luke's professional judgement. She had no proof, except that she should have told her boyfriend that an employee badmouthed her. As I said, Kate Carlisle's male character did not stand for that. It was obvious to me that Alicia sought client contacts from the receptionist and should have told Luke about that. Besides that, Luke trusted her and Rebecca trusted that he knew what he was getting from staff. No one could know she was chasing employees away, if all the reports came from Alicia and were made-up. I do not hold back on stupid characters but here & there, I don't think there was a problem with Rebecca. Honestly, I don't know why the receptionist didn't report to Luke sometimes and also volunteer to tell him, or ask for permission to give Alicia client details. She must have imagined that it was acceptable for someone high up, like Alicia, to have them. I think we can praise Rebecca for saving Luke's company.

I am in no rush to see if we are rewarded or groaning in a third book. In the preview I have, Rebecca is incapable of asking her Mom to refrain from inviting people to a wedding. However, a part of you wants to like her as I hope to, because you are willing to wade into the fray if you find volume 3 cheap. ;>

I don't know if one can redo a falsely filled out document. They might not care if there is a fee per application. Computers can keep track of applications and might have an application waiting period. However, you can get by non-govermental things by making a new start.

A window broke in our apartment, when we wrestled to open it one winter. We had insurance and things are supposed to be fixed for free anyway in apartments. That is the benefit of not owning the place. The caretaker reported it but worded it as if it was our fault, not that anything should have mattered and the building company deemed us ineligible for repairs. It was nonsense because they would fix it if a new tenant rented the place. I phoned a few days later to report a broken window. Out of curiousity, the call taker asked what happened. I said I found it already cracked. He said "Oh well" and it was repaired.

In my first apartment, I had a clunky fridge. It must have been hard to watch TV. I wouldn't have said anything unless it was quite intrusive. Perhaps I had a problem I am not presently remembering. The caretaker felt it ought to be replaced and told a story about throwing food out, to ensure it was done. People whose job it is to deliver repair requests, or applications through are keen to do it. You simply need to be careful not to present it in a way that office drones hesitate about it.

I will happily read "The Second Summer Of The Sisterhood" with you any time you are free to. My "coming soon" dates here at Gentle Spectrums are estimated.

There is one more thing you disliked that I disregarded. It is the author mistakenly believing she was funny by making an employee clueless that Rebecca & Luke should be alone. I would have liked that reunion left in emotional privacy but here, by annoyed with the author.

Nonetheless, Luke should have met Rebecca privately. Rebecca should have arranged a call or meeting with Luke and said: "Is there a chance we will work out? If not, I wanted to warn you I might take a job opportunity in New York". London most certainly had personal shoppers too. I read about them in "Thirteen Little Blue Envelopes" from a ten years later time period.

Another complaint I lay in the author's lap is the turn-around of Rebecca's low self-esteem deportment. She could not tell a gift-wrapping department, prior to touching any product or disturbing anyone at all, that she misheard the offer and leave. Learning and making improvements in the right direction, is different from putting on a provocative show on television. Even more so, telling everyone she was leaving after the one segment, no matter what the inconvenience to the program, is not something she would dare to do. A person does not suddenly have quick-thinking and assertive statements to lay down to objections or pressure.

I spent time searching for the joke you made and could not find "did he die while exploring, or was it unrelated? Were those your words, or did your book add a sentence? I wish it had been clear so I didn't search something that isn't there. I found the advertisement twice, only once with the word "deceased" but it ends at that. I wanted to laugh but it took long, not finding the remark I guess you added. I love subtle or frank humour.

I don't think most people know about convents, Kerri. Neither did I and I grew up with two Aunt level friends of Mom's, from whom I heard a few stories. I know the little I do because I finally asked one of them how it worked and why they left it. When the teaching order stopped, there was no purpose in it anymore, so they continued in education as civilians and rose high up the ranks, those serious but loveable Aunts.

In the chatty scene where Rebecca had trouble understanding she wasn't supposed to savour the quietude, the author tried to make a comedy out of her getting kicked out. It made me mad because here for once was a sincere scene. She wanted to learn about nuns and was genuinely asking about everything. The nun in her discipline, would not have felt frustrated with a girl wanting to learn about it. She would have found it sweet. It was one of my few breaks from disliking Rebecca, well before the end of the novel. She would not have urged her to a gift store. Like Maud Montgomery ruined a happy novel by deaths, Sophie Kinsella ruined some real personality to Rebecca. She didn't understand why the Victoria stained glass was thought gaudy by the other woman and was amazed by it anyway. I think the other woman was looking down her nose at less rare or old art, in a shallow way Rebecca usually did.

We could empty reams of frustration for the length that comment boxes offer. I'll angle my discussion from the point of view of criticising weak storywriting and behaviour that is not true to real life. Refusing to remove enough clothes to fit a suitcase was stupid. Not putting a change of clothes in your purse or small abg was worse nonsense. Refusing to buy a t-shirt and sweats from a hotel gift shop or nearest store is against what Rebecca would do. She kept making excuses for shopping where there were none. She would NOT suggest it would disrespect Suze, to buy clothes when she needs to.

The same goes for the ending. Yes, getting money off her her purchases was wise, especially items besides clothing. I acknowledge you thought it should occur to her straight away but seeing that she does have assets to turn into money was a positive step. She should not have sold too many clothes or the items that meant something to her, obviously. I like lovely moments but as a writer, disliked Sophie's cliche: of course Luke bid on the scarf. That looks like an error because if he knew about the sale, he knew about her move. He was hurt she didn't discuss it with him personally but Sophie wrote that he had not heard about it period and flew out of a meeting to the airport. Why wouldn't Rebecca want him to know it was she who helped? Readers knew it would help mend their relationship.

The purpose of the sale was preventing needless purchases and paying bills. Do not create the need for redoing a wardrobe. Here in the novel, where we are able to feel bad for Rebecca and hope for the best for this fictional idiot, the author fabcricates an excuse to rebuy basic slacks, shirts, and dresswear. If she wanted the message to be that her character wanted to live with less, it didn't work. All I wondered was how she thought it saved money to sell what she would need and already had on hand.

I was dismayed with her Mom, who it sounds like a drag in the third novel, which seems to be about bugging Rebecca to invite unneeded people to a wedding. Her parents know she has a spending problem but her Mom gave her catalogues and shipped her order bonuses to her address. Otherwise I love her parents, Luke, Suze, Tarquin, and think I am in love with Michael Ennis; besides a bald head not being attractive to me. She does love Luke and never took a penny from him for shopping. They click and enjoy each other in ways that Sophie does herself an injustice to keep offscreen. He wants to conquer business too single-mindedly, she is shallow and addicted but they know it about each other and take it with a grain of salt; are undaunted. Believe me, love isn't about finding someone who isn't annoying to you at all. It was Luke calling out her bullshit, his confidence, success at what he enjoys that was attractive to Rebecca. He just laughed at the lies he unearthed and made a game of it. She saw she could be herself with him, far more than she let herself do. Surprisingly, she learned a bit about the finance world too from having a small part in it.

Kerri, news reporters, hosts, and DJs read what they are given, sure. Meterologists have to know their stuff and many on-air personalities work all day before their TV or radio slot. I used to work in the industry. Some came only to do their on-air program, others had desks and preparation to do. People who accept calls or answer questions do have to know enough about it. Surprisingly, Rebecca qualified in that regard. She wasn't taking her advice, or didn't understand it in a real world sense. I feel like she should have read "Steps to deal with shopping addiction" and had a clear guide to follow. It would have wiped out the excuses she made; allowing a little shopping where it made sense. She needed a casual outfit on her countryside trip and she needed to keep a basic warddrobe outside her auction.

You are right that Rebecca should have firmly ended speculation with: "I have never been interested in Tom besides in friendship". If someone were stupidly disbelieving, bring in reinforcements. Tell your Mom "I found Tom unattractive but wouldn't say that". Mrs. Bloomwood will find a tactful way to convey it to Tom's parents. I don't think Jodie was a positive influence, except helping Rebecca find her an apartment. Tell her about the addiction so she isn't spending more than the monthly discount at her job.

I want to get the auction off my chest. Earning a bit of money is SOMETHING. I plan to do it with books, since even a few dollars at a time, the quantity we have will yield decent money for us. I will monetize what I used to give away or trade at a loss at used shops. I don't want to turn off customers, knowing none of us think $10.00+ for used books is reasonable. I wouldn't pay more than $10.00 CDN for used clothes either. It is a fantasy of this author that her character, no matter who Tarquin knows, is getting a Christie's auction to draw buyers! She is fortunate to earn enough to pay debts I don't want to guess about.

I don't mean to sound uncaring. I donated plenty in the past. I don't think this character is someone who should donate "extras" to charity. Build up your life with it: have savings, food, rent, transportation fare, good coverage for an emergency or unexpected need. How does she have extras, even in an overblown yard sale? I doubt overseas plane fair was better than it is now. It was ironic that Rebecca's most useless spending item, besides the letters "Paul", was the bowl and that her bank creditor bought it.

I think I said "I refuse to put myself through a terrible character and writing again, even though I have the books" and expected the same conclusion from you. I felt like killing Rebecca's stupidity and the author's nonsense at the same places you did. The author tries to addict *us* by making her look likeable and scrounging up hope at the end. I am not falling for it and am putting the rest at a low priority. You said the rest improve. I feel it would be nice to see Luke & Rebecca marry. However, my suspicion was thinking the character and writing would improve but feeling angry until the last couple of chapters. How about writing a book we don't hate, Sophie?

You live on a side of the world closer to Europe than we do. I vaguely heard of "Faulty Towers" because they are I guess, a "Monty Python" extension but two films were all I could take of their over-the-top, outmoded humour. I very vaguely clued into the "Don't talk about the war" sctick but have never heard of the other show you referred to. Sometimes where you live makes a difference.

It is why I find the Graham Norton show abosutely thrilling; even in music, which you would think would be across the globe. I look forward to discussing when you answer e-mail letters, how excited I was to see Graham Norton be interviewed by Seth Meyers (whom I adore and find attractive) and Drew Barrymore!

Our internet is turning on & off so I will send this and go about my day. I am catching-up on parcels to have some ready for Ron to drop off tomorrow. Thank you for seeing many of my reviews. For more low star laughs, see: "Rip Van Winkle", "The Legend Of Sleepy Hollow", and my duology of those that reviewed "Golden Dreams".

A lot of topics occur to us, which we roll out as we have time to write them. I want to add Suze was not a pushover. She agreed to help her friend try to resolve her addiction but being a drill sergeant is not the way, nor a role anyone wants. Talk reason: the concerns, unpleasant outcomes, the solution to the problem are great. Disappointed reactions or prohibiting someone who hasn't faced the problem and solution clearly, makes them hide.

Mornings weren't my thing. I would have had better school and university grades with afternoon classes and decent bus service. I dated a bossy person at one time and I wouldn't have minded a helpful word such as "Please don't skip out so much that you can't catch-up, or feel uncomfortable reappearing in classes".

If I prioritized sleep one day, or decided a certain class wasn't worth a bus ride and that doing the assignments were enough; it was my choice. Instead of a caring talk, this boyfriend acted like a policeman; checking at the end of my classes and demanding to know where I was. If that is how you wanted Suze to be, think again. I told him I felt hunted, including when it was acceptable for me to decide that some lectures were of no more benefit than reading a specific textbook chapter. He hated being called a policeman, got the message, and butted out.

I don't feel the way you do about immunity. I understand why, which of course is private. I have never worried about lungs, sinuses, or health. I have felt confident about getting through any illness or flu. I grew up in public, handling the Earth outside, sharing make-up, and beverages. I think it did me good: with Mom drilling into us handwashing and cleanliness with kitchens and play. She made me aware that purses are dirty, therefore mine sits on a floor like shoes do. I wipe my purse when I think of it.

When you wrote about changing clothes after visting hospitals, I thought it was a good idea. I certainly washed my hands leaving and prior to having food; out or at home. However, I drew the line at a mask. I followed rules during the covid19 hysteria but I am not wearing a mask in public places, as if the hysteria were still going. Of course, we have Donna Eden to thank for showing us how to keep our immunity thumping now. :)

Avoid anyone with an irritated eye or a cold. However, I think sharing makeup is fine and rinse the applicator or use a different one, if possible. I balk at discarding makeup as early as experts say we should. I know the material deteriorates eventually and felt that effect (keeping childhood makeup past my 20s). However, we can safely use it much longer than people claim. Consumers can't afford to replace what they have perfectly well on hand, thank you very much. Thanks to Mom, I did not have to buy lipstick or lipgloss. She gave me colours she changed her mind about.

I hate this character. How much you vent and hate Rebecca is a relief. Thank you for the laughter your ranting and identical reactions bring, Kerri. This author has concocted too much to disbelieve.

I ignore the flitting present-tense and "towards" without S. However, assholes who omit the S there don't do it for "backwards" either and a few minutes ago, this fucking bitch used that word in the American way!!!! She is also spelling "colour" with U!!!! Gosh, the one thing I should count on from a British writer is freedom from a couple of misophonia struggles! I hate it if people allow another country to influence how they do things. Be yourself. If a fellow Canadian dares to say "happy holidays" instead of "Merry Christmas", it takes force for me not to yell: "What is wrong with you! Stop using a meaningless expression"!

One gratifying thing about the Manhattan trip is Rebecca is trying to call bags "purses" like we North Americans do. It feels weird to hear "post" as a noun or verb, besides what we do on the internet here. We say "mail a piece of MAIL". Also, a "post" is a pole, usually part of a fence. A break from British jargon is nice. I do want to explode from her vacuous way of going "Erm". Answer a question like an adult! Stop looking for a lie to make-up!

Oh, what made me most mad, was Rebecca thinking interviews are for "sounding like what a company is looking for". What a loser. You do your best to SHOW you are the right hire if it is true. Interview skills mean being adept at conveying yourself confidently, frankly, courteously, and intelligently. If a job is not a fit, this is also the purpose of the meeting for both sides. I did not get nervous at interviews because I know I am easy to like, I speak well, am polite, and didn't mind seeing a job is not for me. If it was a good fit, I would get it. If I didn't, I wouldn't care; no need to be nervous.

Sophie Kinsella is making Rebecca weak in every regard, Kerri and I can't hack it. I am where you are, almost in chapter 10 at page 182. I feel the way we did last year: if the hated book plots don't shape up at the end of this novel, I don't dare read anymore: even though I just about have them all, in first edition. They were low-priced and gathered over years, otherwise I wouldn't buy them, as you know. I look at prices and refrain if they are high, or if an item is not wanted strongly. At her interview, she had wine because that's what she though people did in the USA. When Sophie's description read "I had more because a waiter continued filling the glass", I hated how weak she was! Say "No thank you, no more for me". She is written as a shopaholic but she is a liar, as well as not refusing wine in front of her.

I don't think the women at sample sales were like her, unless events were frequent. Wise women would decline. It sounds like a low key savings opportunity but stick to what you need. Find out what is in the giveaway bags. Spending $50.00 US for them is not worth it if you don't like what is in the bags and if the sale doesn't have items you need. You know how to use your earnings productively and skillfully. "Do the math" is not a common phrase from me, ha ha. It is nevertheless easy to see if a sale yields what you want, at a veritable bargain.

Booksales are savings and I obtain books or CDs I sought. However, I skipped the last one. Our house has no room for an influx of books. Ron is holding back frustration. I am keeping my parents' belongings at this time. To make space for it, I am cleaning out items I do not need, like papers. I packaged books for my Niece & Nephew and cards and photographs Mom had, that belong to Timmy.

I made a postal box of used books to send Leeanne. They aren't designed to fit many but every inch of space reclaimed is good, as well as bringing joy to my recipients. Oh, how I hope an international option for bulk mail is created! Your box would brim with literature you would like. I'm tired of those piddly 5x7 orange envelope carrying two or three at a time. I'll look for a wider envelope today. Selling books is the most space saving action and a fruitful way to earn money too. The library needs to be clean before people shop. I might try advertising books on-line to pick-up. However, it would feel disappointing to receive sales replies, instead of to Conan's search alert with that website account.

Cleaning receipts and recycling gifts is a good start. When Ron dropped off several framed photographs and a few gifts for Mark & Jennifer for Christmas; I protected the glass with used bubble envelopes. Fewer bubble envelopes clears space and is how I should mail things to you more often. They might fit four or more books and CDs for about the same postage as a 5x7 envelope.

I think it was wrong of the Bloomswoods to tell neighbours Rebecca lied out of stress for being in debt. Making up a stalker was terrible but say "It turned out that Rebecca was mistaken, fortunately" and say no more. Surely, she had her whole childhood to flatly and firmly conclude: "I was never interested in your Son"!

Besides lying, I most disapprove of her shallowness. YOU HAVE SPENT ENOUGH MONEY. You can't be amazed at a tour or New York City landmarks and a major museum? You drove Luke's car just in a parking lot, hoping people would admire you for the prestige of the model? Besides clothes, trinkets, and sex; what does Rebecca naturally find fun? Look, I am not a gym machinery person either. I believe in plain outdoor exercise, or dancing at home to music. But when I went to a gym in university, there was no shame in being new to every station and asking people how to use them safely and properly. It is fun to be new at things and people enjoy helping us discover them.

Nuns do not sing all day. They work, it is a chosen profession. They have duties, jobs, and a goal. Convents are made out of "orders", such as a "nursing order", where they are actually professional nurses. Two women who loved me since I was a baby and whom I called Aunts, used to be nuns. They rose up the ranks of a "teaching order". It is a career path, except religion runs it and you must be dedicated to catholism. More people have learned about "women's health convent orders", from the television program "Call The Midwife".

The only time I liked Rebecca was when she was helping people, like you said. I liked her doing the same with Tarquin, who did not know how to dress or style his hair. Except she might have asked him to buy the sweater if he liked it (North Americans do not have the word "jumper" and take time to figure out what Brits mean by that). He could afford it, she was going to get a refund for it.

I considered if my packing list sounded too long but if possible; jeans, loose slacks, and two pairs of shorts are handy if you're away for a week. If there is a reason to dress up, dress pants and a dress or skirt and blouse are good too and they can be rolled small. If there is no formality, stick to the shorts, sweats or light slacks, and jeans. Thanks to my Mom, I need not buy clothing for years. Loosening space to store it is what I need to do. Look, I get buying a new suit or dress slacks for a television job. Rebecca's spending was disgusting, for being mindless and irresponsible.

I thought Rebecca had three weeks to prepare. Even that is too little to plan a vacation, let alone the occasion to be overseas. If you came, where we have discussed you would need something like six months to see much; we would prepare for a year or two, wouldn't we? Likewise for a couple of months in New Zealand.

How did Rebecca get her mailed clothes (stupid not to pack necessities in her purse!) and convent purchases home in Luke's car? It is weird to call a "trunk" a boot.

I noticed your posts before Ron called me for our vegetarian week-end breakfast. I read the first one, then laughed with him about how good it made me feel to see YOU rant for a change. I explained that these two books suck on too many levels and that the author left no room to like the character. I said Rebecca has wonderful parents and an admirable boyfriend who knows she lies and call her out on it lovingly. I said it angers us that she lies even to them! I said what brings my stress down from these annoying, reckless stories is you laughing about them with me. Thank you for this, Kerri. It truly makes my day to call trash for what it is, together with you. This author is wrong if she thought we would find any ounce of it humourous or cute. I didn't see the joke at the end of the book advertisement and will look at it.

One more rant from me. If she didn't want Suze to see that she was looking at an office supplies website (which I suppose will be delivered while she is considering moving out of the country), she need only close the website. No one rushes through a purchase! I imagine most people do this: you put things into your virtual cart that you are considering, then move them to a wish list or delete them. You only want an item or two and are merely comparing options or prices. Don't we all generally look on-line this way? To buy your whole virtual shopping cart instead of turning off the webpage or internet, is stupid beyond even my credulity in these outrageously unrealistic novels!

I think Rebecca will find she can't leave the UK or enter the USA with debt. I still found room after tolerating this ridiculous author twice, to be shocked that her character lied on an immigration form. Don't be fucking stupid. State your reasons for wanting to emigrate and be assessed properly; you cowardly, outrageous bitch!

I feel for addicts. I have noticed that they can fall prey to other ones. Ron quit smoking. I would not be with a smoker and he was disliked a habit he deemed unhealthy. It worked out well for our new relationship that he gladly freed himself. I can't respect anyone who smokes. The dangers have been advertised since the 1980s and are on the packages nowadays, with frightening pictures. I am proud of Dad for quitting, who brought no smoke into our family house.

I am relieved I am not addictive. I watch for things to not overdo, like chocoate or chips. Bags of junk food chemical chips are what the British call "crisps" oddly. "French fries" are what we call narrow potato strips. I watched my behaviour with my new smart phone and am relieved I have no inclination to keep my nose in it. When Protonmail opens on our PC, I don't turn on my cell phone. My parents aren't here anymore and hardly anyone knows the telephone number. It is an emergency asset. If the USB cord works well, I will be glad to transfer data with somewhat faster internet. That is all. I turn it on after a few days to verify its battery is charged. I hate typing or looking at the internet on it. I am simply grateful for the relief of the telephone and internet option at home and when we are out.

Yes, cell phones off at weddings and personal visits are rules I heed, Kerri! The cell phone should have been back on after, for news from Luke. This author's gimmicks are annoying and predictable..... except when her scenes are worse than expected! Phew, this venting out of last night's annoying reading has felt good!

Alicia wanting contacts means she wants to open a company and is placating Luke until she leaves. Rebecca should report her rudeness. Kate Carlisle's protagonist has a boyfriend with his own company. When Derek found out two girls remarked about their relationship and upset Brooke, he fired them. Luke is loyal too.

My friend Kerri, God bless you for cherishing how much I savour my closeness to my beloved parents. Thank you for echoing my loving feelings about them back to me.

Page 32 is the beginning of chapter 3, where I am. "Dumb" and "low self-esteem" are the word for her, not "airheaded". Everything I hated about Rebecca is disappointingly the same. I am not saying I expect a different outlook, attitude, and discipline about money on the first try. She sucks in ALL the other ways too, that you & I were aghast about before.

Nighttime is for reading. Morning is when I type. However, I am finishing book reviews, to mail a batch to my family for Christmas and birthdays. I am also clearing up Timmy's copies of family keepsakes like photographs and papers and greeting cards that belong to him.

I see that you posted, so I'll reply straight away, while there are only 32 pages to express anger about. The author is making her character a fuck-up in too many ways again. She is so stupid but also spineless and isn't she in her 30s?

Our frame of mind affects the ideal time to read certain things. I just shoved myself through a compounded misophonia triggering novel that was overly descriptive, slow, and not as exciting as it should have been. You know from e-mail this evening, if you did not see my reply at my review of "The Ten-Thousand Doors Of January" yesterday, that nothing compares to that agonizing experience. Therefore, this trivial novel is a walk in the park: light, like you said. Booing it together is fun! I was NOT catty in school so it is fun to be bluntly critical and hold back nothing.

One thing you did not remark upon is its present-tense narration, that most people hate. Did Sophie Kinsella use it in the first novel? My review doesn't complain about it. This is a rare occasion when something about it works, which might be why it went unnoticed for you. There is no getting used to it, as you suggested about the other novel you are reading. It is always unpalatable. It is simply that you like what you're reading enough to glaze over it. I just peeked at the hardcover I reviewed an hour ago and couldn't stand one sentence of that ugly sentence structure. But I am having no problem reading Sophie Kinsella's novel and I think it is because it is dialogue heavy. Dialogue is in present-tense, so the small amount around it goes down easily.

Look, if there were an election of a procrastinating queen, Ron would nominate me and I might win it. When there is a lot of work to do, I push myself to start. However, when I am ready and when it is important, I go to work seriously. That is part of why I prepare my stamina for long tasks. If I had a book deal, I would dig in. It is why I am home-based and is my dream come true! It is not Rebecca's but she was offered that rare opportunity and a pay advance. GET WRITING.

If Sophie is as predictable and dreadful as she was in her first story, I see Rebecca fucking up her book contract and television appearance slot. Instead of spending what she used to on her memo writing salary and having ample funding to pay it all off; she is spending more. I think Sophie is bold enough to have her protagonist lose those jobs, after charging worse sums.

I predict Rebecca is invited to Manhattan to visit Luke's Mom. She will make the excuse about souvenirs of New York City and buy more than she did at home. If I understand one thing, it is "once in a lifetime trips". I bought a jacket in Montreal both times I went. I needed them and it was nice to get affordable jackets in our fashion capital. I wore the first for 20 years. I might still have it, a pretty purple spring jacket. I have had the second one for twenty years: a long faux-leather jacket, suitable and stylish for formal wear in winter. I buy postcards that I send and keep. I buy a special ornament if I can, which I cherish. I value my photographs above all.

What would I do if I had a TV job? I would choose from the ample blouses, skirts, and suits I already have. I might buy one or two new pairs of slacks and blouses if it is was regular job. I have more shoes than I have the time or place to wear and I am not a shoe nut like many women. I have had a million retail and front desk jobs where dressing-up was a must; including executive, media, and government industries. I drew my wardrobe from what I had. I have been to the Juno Awards, for Pete's sakes! Canada's Grammys! What did I wear? The beautiful ball gown I had bought for a wedding. It looks like what anyone would wear on a red carpet and it serves me well, in many size periods. My ball gown is like the adaptable, dependable "Sisterhood Pants"! :)

I *have* bought duplicate shoes and slippers in all their colours. It is because they were comfortable, good quality, not necessarily found at that fortunate sale price again, and they will be worn for years. Price stops me from buying something easily, as do our funds. If I don't need it and if it isn't just about free, I don't buy it. When you see the book stock around our house, you will be amazed at how often we did find books that were just about free but was paid the same month, if it was ever charged at all.

Rebecca lying and not feeling confident about telling a cashier "no", or she changed her mind, or does not want to give details is the second most aspect of these novels that annoys me, Kerri. If you want to spend a few more dollars to earn a candle or whatnot, ask the cashier to wait while you browse for something you want. You don't scrape together letters you won't use! The last thing a person does who wants to clear away debt, is buy something useless. That is as unrealistic as her inability to speak the fuck up and not lie about her purchases. Gosh, if we were at least over that, I would enjoy this series far more. I don't expect you to buy the third one. I might only continue because I have the whole set - cheap of course.

The number one trope of Sophie's that angers me, is the pathetic and shallow-minded idea that this stupid character can't remove t-shirts and pants from a suitcase! Luggage is a good investment but needn't be designer, as you remarked aptly. You can travel, you can move clothes with it. Come to think of it, I might store extra towels and blankets in the library building in my Parents' luggage, to avoid the mice there. That is a good space saver! However, if you have never gone to a cottage or friend's house for the week-end or travelled, learn what you need. It is a list you will print in the future.

I add briefs and socks for every day plus a spare of each. One brassiere will do, unless you need a strapless one for formal wear or spaghetti strap casual wear. One nightgown or pyjamas is fine. I would add a robe if I need to walk past people to the washroom, otherwise I'll bathe and dress prior to seeing anyone. One swimming suit and beach throw if applicable. One jeans, runners, and casual slacks. One t-shirt, casual shirt, and blouse. If summery, add one or two pairs of shorts, a muscle shirt, sandals. One skirt or dress and nice shoes if needed. I have a pre-packed toiletries case of tiny shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, tooth brush, skin cream, powder, painkillers in case there was none. Cameras, batteries, cords, glasses, make-up bag, cell phone, charger, two plastic bags to protect items or put laundry in, a few paperbacks, slim photo prints of my kitties, and purse. That is it.

This fits in a carry bag, with a front pocket for quick access or small things, or something like paperbacks that I won't risk being reached by spilled shampoo or cream. Make-up bag, camera, glasses, cell phone, and a paperback go in my purse. If we don't need to bring towels, beach mats, coolers (our version of picnic hampers), lawnchairs, or sheets; it is even easier. However these items can be light and compact too.

A printed list of essentials to checkmark, ensures you don't forget anything; going and returning home. I appreciate that Ron packs different shoes, hiking equipment, and clothing for all weather but my bag is lighter and smaller than his. Obviously, I could bring fewer shirt and shorts selections depending on the trip duration, season, and if there are dressy outings.

Rebecca not so much as trying to reduce shirts and slacks and thinking it is in any way difficult, makes me hate her. That was before the shallowest bitch I have ever heard of, ordered a courier to Luke's cottage. He made a point of asking her to respect his trunk size. (Ha ha, how did that sound?) Is she going to go hiking for a cottage courier to mail half of her luggage back?

I think I have made due with my carry bag for as much as a week's visit. I had an extra bag when I was with Dad this April because I had CDs, photographs, and books to share with him among my small amount of clothes. Oh, I wish I could keep saying I was with my beloved Parents this year, this season, this month, this week, and this day! I will enjoy the proximity to his physical life with me while it is near for me to savour it!

You aren't done any of the six that were there before. I was hoping you didn't need to exempt this one from being number seven! When you are off Goodreads for a spell, I think you must be reading up a storm with the internet not cutting in.

January is a good month for ridding anything that doesn't work. Let's see how "Manhattan" fares. There are better books to bolster our days with thereafter! Listing seven books is nuts. Stop adding until you finish them.

Kerri, Shirin, & I highly anticipate every story in this series. We became fans instantly and discuss our feelings and ideas broadly at this group. I can't wait to see the answers to numerous questions!

There is one more short story and I hope it contains Richard, Blue, and everyone we love. I don't expect anyone familiar except Ronan in the next series. I am going to enjoy my fill of and savour the wonderful, endearing Richard!

Happy new year! Here is a sequel Kerri & I will give a chance to improve the series this new year, 2025!

Anyone who finished the first series novel, is welcome to read along with us. Let's fine-tune the month we will return to a protagonist to whom we have fortunately begun to warm up. Sincerely, your hostesss, Carolyn.

Happy new year! Here is the sequel Kerri & I look forward to reading soon in this new year, 2025!

Anyone who finished the first series novel, is welcome to read along with us. Let's fine-tune the month and week we are keen to return to our favourite best friend quartet.

Sincerely, your hostesss, Carolyn.