Tuesday, September 15, 2026

Two for Tuesday: Floral Reads

Two ducks in Los Angeles (my photo)


I haven’t been reading much lately. Just not in the mood, I guess, plus I began several books that went quickly to the DNF pile. As I’ve mentioned, I’m really tired of the same-old thrillers and romances. I did finish two so far this month though, which I will review here (actually I will C&P from my Goodreads’ reviews). 

1. Wildflower by Drew Barrymore. Very enjoyable read. I read it in small batches to get the maximum effect. Drew has a very entertaining narrative voice and seems natural and unedited (though I assume the book was, at least a little). Her mood alternates between focused and scattered, but she’s always exuberant, which makes even the more ordinary chapters fun. She’s definitely an interesting person with an amazing work ethic. Four stars for this memoir.

2. Where the Sea Lavender Grows by Kitty Johnson. Interesting mystery with romantic and supernatural elements. The characters are well-developed and relatable, especially Elise and Lilias. Though the setting swings back and forth chronologically, the chapters are separate so there’s no confusion. While the story is full of tragedy, it is ultimately an affirmation of life and love. And doggies. Four stars.

I am still a few books ahead of my goal, pace-wise, but I need to get going if I want to hit 125 by December 31. Today I am at 93 for the year.

10 comments:

  1. Time to switch up genres? Time for horror, sci fi, or fantasy? Or what other genres am I missing? New adult is irritating (at least I think so). Non-fiction? You've been delving into memoir. Women's fiction? There's got to be something that you'll enjoy.

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    1. I do like a bit of horror and sci fi! Agree on YA. I have a couple more nonfiction books plus some poetry to delve into…

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    2. If you like science fiction, have you tried Larry Niven? A favorite of mine with a refreshingly optimistic view of the future.

      For horror, Clive Barker is the gold standard (his short stories are better than his novels), but he's a bit strong for some people.

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    3. Thanks for the recs! I grabbed one of Clive's from KU!

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  2. I've never been a huge DB fan, to be honest. But I am up for a memoir of an interesting person. I have had a decent bit of luck finding books that I've enjoyed reading. Nothing has been knocking my socks off but I've been finishing everything and generally enjoying them for which I'm grateful.

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  3. You're doing great reading that many books so far. I like Drew Barrymore. I put my goal at 100 books for the year. I hope I make it.

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  4. Replies
    1. It was an interesting mix of glimpses into her life...

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