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Books

On reading

Currently Reading: The Cartographers

The Old Woman with the Knife

So I finally caved and joined Book of the Month. So much of my reading is digital—I’ve missed physical books. And I have friends who do it. 

I think I’m a bit of a book club addict? I can’t seem to talk about books enough with people. I’m in four book clubs (two with humans I know, one digital, and one new group at a local bookstore.) But it still doesn’t seem like enough? I just want a buddy who will read every book with me so I always have someone to discuss it with. The problem is, I’m a slow reader. Any buddy would finish long before me. Ah well. 

The real trouble is the same all readers face: too many books, too little time. 

After publishing Familiar Magic, I took a small vacation to luxuriate in some extra reading time this week and it’s been so wonderful but like any holiday, returning to reality is a bit of a bummer. Not getting to read all day every day? Boooooooo!

While I’ve always been a big proponent of e-readers–being able to take an entire library with you anywhere in the world, being able to access any book at any time you want–I will allow, there there is something inherently enjoyable in reading a physical copy. Especially a hardback. It just seem like a more indulgent experience? As if the book itself is telling you to take your time. You don’t have to listen at double speed to finish this audiobook before the library loan period expires. Nope. This is yours, here for whenever you want to come to it.

I will always appreciate my kindle and ebooks. Of course. (I write ebooks, after all.) But sometimes, reading a paper book is just that extra something that you can do to treat yourself. (The only drawback being smudges or whatever I’m snacking on in the pages.) It’s classic for a reason. I think there is an entire section of instagram just of books and reading corners with hot drinks. Spring is fast catching up to summer, and cosy corner reads in blankets will turn to finding a nice spot outside under a tree or a sunny park bench. That is how I intend to read Breaking Bread with the Dead… a book club pick for April. 

What is everyone reading?

Categories
Books Writing

Familiar Magic

Familiar Magic, the second in the Relearning Magic series is (finally) out! Hurrah!

Of course it is now April, which means it is Camp NaNo again, and yes, I’m working on the next in the series. My hope is to have the third and final one out by May’s end. Finger’s crossed.

Where Power Lies, the full length novel I’ve been working on for over two years should be out in the summer. (On for over. Three prepositions in a row!) If I had any business sense I would already be promoting it. There is a whole process for an indie author’s book launch; you should be doing blog or podcast interviews, there should be a cover reveal, a pre-order date, a big hoopla.

I’m terrible at hoopla. I’m still trying to get my head around the finishing the work and the posting the work. Advertising and release schedules are advanced level.

So for now, here is my new book. Please leave reviews, and recommend it to friends (you think will enjoy it.) It helps others see it. 

I’m still sort of in denial that this is what I do now. I don’t think I’ve ever been happier. Can’t wait to write out the novels that have been in my head and heart for so long once this little trilogy is done.

(Along with the writing, I’m finally getting proper medical treatment for my heart condition and it has made my life so much better. I don’t know why I went so long not taking care of myself!)

Anyone else hold off on doing something for so long? What made you finally do it? Or what’s still holding you back?