Free Friday or last, current, and next reads

This year, I gave myself a goal of reading twelve books because I had a miserable record the year before. Like … it’s embarrassing, especially for someone who used to read multiple books in a month. When I was in nursing school, I didn’t really have the time to read anything other than my textbooks, and by the time I was done with that, my brain was not processing printed words. Understandably, I started watching a lot more series and movies to slake my thirst for something other than anatomy and physiology.

But even after I graduated, my brain still couldn’t get back into reading. Even with audio books and fiction, my attention couldn’t be held for more than a few minutes, so I found myself relistening to podcasts I’d already finished (The Adventure Zone: Balance was on frequent rotation) or just kind of staring into space. So my wanting to read again is a huge development for me. Plus, it really helps with my current writing because I can see how the professionals do it.

But without further ado:

Last Read

Red Sonja: Consumed by Gail Simone

God, I loved this book. First of all, I love anything Gail Simone does because she’s incredible (and follows me on Bluesky! eep!), and second, Red Sonja is one of my favorite characters, which I attribute to Bridgitte Nielsen as the red-headed heroine in 1985’s Red Sonja.

The action sequences are thrilling and well executed, and the villain is appropriately terrifying, especially at the beginning when you know nothing about it except that it drags people underground and crushes them violently. The only thing that I didn’t like was the random sex scenes between characters that I just didn’t really get – it just kind of jumps, in my opinion, out of nowhere – but that’s an easy thing to forgive.

Currently Reading

Peg & Rose Solve a Murder by Laurien Berenson

If you like old bickering ladies, poodles, old rivalries, and a murder mystery, boy howdy, do I have a book for you! So far, it’s been such a fun read, and I’m expecting to have it finished pretty soon. My plan is to do a review once I’m done because it really is delightful and such a departure from what I usually read. I may have to start peppering in lighter reading into my to-read pile, if my enjoyment of this is any indication.

Next Read

Black River Orchard by Chuck Wendig

I know I said I wanted to add some more light-hearted stories into the big pile of books I want to read, but I’ve been meaning to start this book for ages. I bought it when it came out – and it’s autographed! – and have just never gotten around to it. Plus, I want to incorporate more horror novels into my life since I recently – well, back in 2020 – discovered my love of horror movies (except body horror, #shudders). I honestly have no idea what it’s about, but I know apples play a large role? Maybe?? I don’t know, but I’m excited to find out!

So what is everyone else reading? Got any recommendations or what to avoid? I have a list I’m pulling from right now, but I am open to suggestions!