2025 Reading Challenge discussion
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What are you currently reading?


Just started Hearts Aflame by Johanna Lindsay


I've tried to start this a few times but never made it beyond the 3rd chapter. I'm finally into chapter 5 haha


That's what I'm reading too! Although I'm not as far along as you. It's so good. But then, Barbara Kingsolver always is.

I am reading A loveletter to Whisky and book two of the Caraval-trilogy. I like both books, but let’s see where they go. I am also trying to finish the Wicked-trilogy from Armentrout, but that series seems to get worse with every book…

I'm definitely keeping my expectations low for this one but I feel like it's time to really try.
At 80% I would have skimmed till the end and called it read! ;)

Congrats on almost finishing that.


That's awesome! Keep me posted on how you like it :) I am not too familiar with Barbara Kingsolver's work, but her writing is so good! I may have to check out her other work as well.

Demon Copperhead was hard to put down!



My review -
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...




I adore this series! I did it partially on audio and I cannot recommend the audiobooks enough, if you like that format!

I'm reading that too right now (almost to the end)! The local book club picked it for our January read and that was as good an excuse as ever to crack it open. It's definitely put me through the wringer of the mortifying ordeal of being seen.


Armentrout is on my Black List.
I read two books by her and Storm and Fury was just bad




Extra, extra, read all about it! From the frigid Arctic tundra to the fiery hot papers fresh off the printing press, Hartman's book chronicles the fascinating rise of modern newspapers through the Herald and the Times rivalry. More than that, it's a snapshot of this dynamic time, of changing attitudes and habits, technological advances, and burgeoning political and social ideas, of the symbiotic relationship between a writer and its reader; they both influence each other, and need each other to exist.
What I appreciated most about Hartman's narration is that he focused on not only how reporting changed the way it did throughout the 19th century, but why. Hartman laid out the different philosophies of the various news barons of their day and how it shaped their papers, and how shifting cultural values and tastes guided the transition from no holds barred, yellow journalism to the academic and rigorous writing that made journalism a new, respected profession. A free society and free press go hand in hand, and you can see clearly the
full review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...


Depressing and frustrating subject, but told with care and compassion. Small comfort that in a way, justice was carried out, in that the publication of this book and renewed interest in this tragedy to the new generation helps at least, as an acknowledgement of what happened and the negligence of the U.S. justice system, if not by the actual perpetrators (Hale to his dying day never apologized or admitted to any wrongdoing), then by the public, and keeping the victims in remembrance.
I dock a star because...
full review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...


Revolutions, regime changes, and risqué paramours, oh my! Nancy Goldstone is the queen of bringing to life the stoic, regal, static paintings of reines, showing just how dynamic, vibrant, curious, intelligent and strong women of history were, who have for too long been described as just wives to a crowned head.
It was smart for Goldstone to double bill this book, as Eugenie and Elisabeth had more in common than just being alive at the same time. I learned that they both...
full review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...


The "amateur sleuth podcast/book" trope has become more prevalent in books lately, what with rise of the true crime phenomenon, but what makes this book stand out is the added layer of emotional and personal stakes the main character Jane has in the investigation, and by extension, the author, Ashley Winstead. The death of Jane's father and the resulting emotional spiral that follows plays a big factor in her decision making throughout the story. Similarly, the death of Winstead's father was partly the impetus for her writing this book and choosing this topic (which I'll get into later in this review, I have THOUGHTS).
the GOOD: What starts as...
full review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...


What a rollicking good time! The hitwoman in a Panera Bread premise gave me a good chuckle and reeled me in immediately. This is a successful blend of action, mystery, humor, that keeps it from being a sedate, cozy mystery. Most of the characters had very strong individual voices and big personalities, enhanced by the superb audiobook narrator, Angela Dawe. She used different accents very well. The only ding of the book was...
full review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

Naris wrote: "I am currently reading Demon Copperhead! I am on Chapter 21 and I am really enjoying it so far (alternating between audiobook and Kindle). I am trying to finish the Kindle version before my Libby l..."
Naris wrote: "I am currently reading Demon Copperhead! I am on Chapter 21 and I am really enjoying it so far (alternating between audiobook and Kindle). I am trying to finish the Kindle version before my Libby l..."
How did you like it? This is one of my top 5 favorite books of all time!
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I'll start, I’m not reading anything at the moment—just finishing up the last three reviews for the books I recently wrapped up. But the next book on my list is My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite. Can’t wait to get started! Happy reading, everyone!