I spent most of this week listening to the audiobook of Penance, by Eliza Clark. This book came recommended on Instagram by author Ally Wilkes, she of two spooky Arctic novels, which you should absolutely read (link to Ally’s website is below).
Penance was absolutely amazing. I love coming-of-age stories based in the UK, basically because I can heavily relate. But this one is special because it focuses on a brutal murder committed by teenager girls, and Penance serves as a “true crime” novel relating the events of said murder. The story is conveyed through various sources, so there is a lot of he said/she said. Anyway, no description I cobble together will do this book justice; I urge you to read it if you haven’t already.
I finished Josh Widdecombe’s Watching Neighbours Twice a Day, which was a lot of fun. I’m not sure how much it would appeal to those who didn’t grow up in 80s/90s England, but I enjoyed the nostalgic trip.
Today I started the audiobook of Nine Goblins, by T. Kingfisher. It has already made me laugh more than any other book this month, and I’m only halfway through. If you like Terry Pratchett, I think you’ll enjoy this one.
I’m also finally reading Wild Marjoram Tea, by Sylvia Littlegood-Briggs, a weird, folk fairy tale. I’m about halfway through and nothing outwardly strange has happened yet (other than a death by cows), but I am enjoying the unnerving vibes.
It’s been a short week over here, with the MLK holiday. I’m feeling very “January” at the moment. Still, one must count their blessings, etc, etc. Have a great week!
California Reading 