Book Review: Aunt Sookie & Me by Michael Scott Garvin

 I know, I do have a penchant for thrillers and psychological dramas in my novels.  I freely admit that.

But, I also love a Southern Gothic novel like nobody's business.

With every Southern Gothic novel you are guaranteed a whole host of outlandish characters, a town where everyone knows everyone and, presumably, their business.  And, generally - at least the ones I've read recently they usually take place during turbulent times.

And that is exactly what you get with Aunt Sookie & Me a sordid tale of scandalous southern belle by Michael Scott Garvin.

In this novel we are introduced to Poppy Wainwright and her outrageous, ancient Aunt Sookie.

After Poppy's beloved grandmother - who was raising her - dies, Poppy is put on a Greyhound bus and is sent to live with Sookie.  Sookie is technically not her aunt as she was the sister of the grandmother - but, as it is in the south, she gets the moniker anyway.

Told through the eyes of Poppy - hilarity, insanity and heartbreak ensues. All political correctness is buried alongside the dead body planted in the family's vegetable garden.  And if all that weren't enough, there is a goat that has free rein of the dilapidated, grand old house.

I raced through this book I enjoyed it so much.  I will definitely be seeking out other novels by this author.  I would definitely recommend.

Book Review: You Were Gone by Tim Weaver

 Calling all my thriller, or thriller wanna, be lovers.  This book is for you.  The cover art clearly explains the whole plot of this book.

I buried you, I mourned you,
But now you are back

David Raker lost his wife eight years ago.  But then a woman walks into a police station claiming to be his wife.  She looks eerily like his wife, she knows quite a bit about their history - things people outside of their marriage wouldn't know.  

She proceeds to tell the police that he had a mental breakdown, as he continues to proclaim that she is not his wife.  A prominent doctor backs her claim.  Then she disappears.  And suddenly, he is a prime suspect in their investigation.

David teeters on the edge; DID he have a breakdown?  DID his wife die; or did he ever have a wife?  What the hell is going on?

This story was tightly woven and there are twists that are definitely unexpected and the story was masterfully told.

Big thumbs up.  You should definitely read it.

In Another Edition of Things That Seemingly Only Happen to Me

For Christmas I asked for, and received, a puzzle board.  One that was supposed to rotate - but the lazy susan bit was missing.  When I emailed the company about it they told me it wasn't supposed to rotate - despite the description on the box saying it did.  We went round and round (get it?) about it and it was never resolved.  No matter, the puzzle board works fine without rotating.

All of the previous superfluous nonsense to say that I ordered a puzzle after Christmas in order to "break in" my new board since no one thought that giving me a puzzle would be a great adjacent gift to the puzzle board.

Here is the puzzle I bought.

Or so I thought...

As I begin sifting through the pieces looking for all the edges, I began to think something wasn't quite right.  And as I began piecing together those edges, I KNEW something wasn't right.  To the point, that I called The Husband in and told him to look at the puzzle pieces and then to the box - did that look right to him?  He agreed that it did not.

And so I began the painstaking process of putting together the puzzle with NO idea of what the finished product should look like.

Let me tell you, when you are flying blind while putting together a puzzle it takes much longer than it usually does - which is why you are just now hearing about this tale of woe.  And everyday was a new discovery.  Oh look, it's a baby bear!  Oh, there's a mama bear!  Oh look, there are boats, cabins and, shocker, trees.

And, in what I'm now calling my "signature move" when it comes to puzzles I, of course, lost a piece. *sigh*

At any rate, this is the "completed" puzzle; which I'm sure you will agree does not look anything like the box that proclaimed to house the puzzle inside.

After this debacle, I'm almost afraid to order another puzzle.

Have you ever come across something this ridiculous?

Another Re-Read: Roots

 Apparently, my re-reading of Gone With The Wind put me in the perfect frame of mind to re-read another excellent sweeping saga...Roots.

I cannot remember the last time I read this book.  At all.  But it was sitting there next to Gone With The Wind; so I picked it up after I finished the other.

What I do remember VIVIDLY was watching the mini-series when I was probably far too young to be watching it and being HORRIFIED.  That I do remember.

Now, this book is not an easy read at all.  And I was once again HORRIFIED.  But the story is compelling and is a testament to family and honoring and remembering those that have come before us; those that have made us who we are today.

What I don't think I ever realized, until I got to the end of this book this time, is that this book is about Alex Haley's own ancestors.  The amount of research that went into this book to make it as accurate as possible is simply stunning and a testament to Mr. Haley's commitment to writing his family's story.

Kids, thank your lucky stars I am not a teacher because if I was I would fight tooth and nail to have this giant book (888 pages) as required reading.  Because I honestly believe that if more people understood exactly what slavery looked like we might have a little more empathy, compassion and understanding in the world today.

This book was a masterpiece.

Have you read Roots? If not, would you be willing to give it a shot (worth it, I promise).

Gone with the Wind

 Prompted by Engie's recent reviews of Gone with the Wind; I pulled out my copy, dusted it off and sat down to re-read this classic novel.

I can't remember how many years ago it was when I last read this book - but I'm guessing it's been more than 30 years (and probably about the same amount of time since I saw the movie).  And as I told The Husband when I finally closed the giant book this afternoon - I remembered the basic plot but apparently, I had forgotten 90% of the story.

It is a period piece, so we have to keep that in mind when reading about slavery, etc.  If those problematic pieces would have been left out; it wouldn't have been a very believable read of the times in which it was set.  Much like The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer.  You can't whitewash the past, unfortunately.

And yes, I have to agree with Engie's assessment of Scarlett.  Despite everything she endured and the successes that she achieved despite the hardships she faced; she is not a nice person at all.  Therefore, the ending was fitting for Scarlett.

I thoroughly enjoyed this re-read and would suggest, if you haven't read it in some time - or if you've never read - now might be a good time.  Yes, it's a tome (clocking in at 1,037 pages) but it is well written; a sweeping saga will hold your attention straight through to the end - a book you, most likely, won't regret reading or re-reading.

Book Review: Thief River Falls by Brian Freeman

 I know I say this about every book I review - but this one truly was unputdownable.  A true page turner and was an excellent escape vehicle that I definitely needed today of all days.

Lisa Power is a tortured ghost of her former self.  She is the author of a bestselling thriller called Thief River Falls, named after her rural Minnesota hometown.  Lisa is secluded in her remote house as she struggles with the loss of her entire family due to a series of tragedies.

A nameless runaway boy shows up at her door with a terrifying store:  he's just escaped death after witnessing a brutal murder.  Obsessed with the boy's safety, she resolves to expose this crime, but powerful men in Thief River Falls are  desperate to get the boy back, and now they want her too.

I was riveted to this book all day.  I will say at one point, I started to suspect how the ending would be - but it was pretty close to the end when that happened.

So, if you are looking for something to, you know, take your mind off all of the *things* right now.  I think this might be perfect book for that.

So News...of sorts

Today I had my first interview since I was let go at the end of August.  Honestly, I'm kind of shocked it took this long to obtain one interview.

Let me tell you.  Searching for a job these days is a LOT different than when I last had to do it.  Back then, I answered a blind ad in the newspaper.  Today, it involves trawling online trying to weed out the scammy posts.  Which, let me tell you, makes job searches exhausting.

I will give credit to a majority of the companies, I've applied to - at the very least most of them are responding that they've received my application and turning around to tell me that despite my "very impressive" resume, they've decided to go in another direction. *sigh*

Today's phone interview was just a quick "meet and greet" to explain the company (an industry I'm not really familiar with) and I guess to garner just how interested I am in the position (very).

I should note here, that I have been targeting remote roles only - because I honestly don't want to have to go into an office if I don't have to; and after the lockdown it has been more than proven that I can actually do my job from home.

So when she mentioned that for locals this was a hybrid position, I was a little concerned.  Were they expecting me to move?  No, in fact, it turns out that if a non-local person secures this position it will be 100% remote.  Which makes me really want this job.

I sent a thank you email, after the interview and then immediately wondered; is this something people do anymore in this digital age?  I'm thinking it's not the norm anymore. 

I think the interview went well.  She promised to get back to me either way.  So now, we wait, with crossed fingers and toes - because I really think this job would be a good fit for both of us.

Shower Thoughts

 I DESPISE showering in the winter in this house.  The Husband made a miracle happen a few years ago and installed a vent heater in our bathroom.  But, that little heater can't keep up in our frigid bathroom.  I'm not kidding when I tell you that room is at least 15 degrees colder than any other room in this house.

Well, this post went off the rails from the very beginning.  Because I meant start by telling you that I have recently determined that I will no longer use a "pouf" (those netted things) in the shower because I recently saw a post somewhere on the internet from a dermatologist who mentioned all the mold and bacteria found on those things; that I'd been mindlessly using.  I have since switched over to wash cloths; which honestly, I don't love but at least they don't skeeve me out.  And I KNOW they are clean because they get washed after each use.  Now I just need to go ahead and toss that pouf which is still hanging in my shower growing more moldy every day, I'm sure.

But the main reason I despise showering in the winter is because when I get out and set about moisturizing myself I am shivering beyond reason - even with the vented heater.

Then one day, my dad's voice registered in my head.  I remember clearly him telling me, when I was very young - because he and my mother hadn't divorced yet - that in order to not be so cold when getting out of the shower/tub to use cooler water.  Mind you, not cold but cooler.

And I shrugged that off as absolutely ridiculous because who doesn't love a hot shower?  I sure do.

But after one day a week or so ago; after shivering and unable to get warm - even after being dressed - I decided enough was enough.

So, now I have been taking tepid showers.  Is it ideal?  No it is not.  Does it work?  Yes, it does.  And, apparently, my skin (and my toes) are thanking me.

I am no longer shivering as I moisturize and by the time I get around from moving from the bathroom to my dressing room I'm actually pretty comfortable.  Bliss.

So what say you, friends?  Do you use a pouf?  Are you now as skeeved out about them as I am?  Could you brave a tepid shower in the winter?

DONE...finally!

 After the past three weeks of pure, manic, Christmas panic - as of five minutes ago, I am done.

All the presents and stocking stuffers bought and accounted for.  All the gifts wrapped, shipped (and received), and those that weren't shipped are ready to find their place under the tree. All the Christmas baking (well...except for whatever will be served Christmas Eve - but I feel sure that what my son will request can be done in under 20 minutes) is done.  Just in time for Suzanne's Christmas Cookie Swap.

All that's left is to create the cookie plates for the neighbors and friends, which will be done and delivered tomorrow.  And then to clean the house for Christmas Eve chaos.

This year I went with the usuals leaving out anything extra - as usual the cookie dough (minus the spritz) the was prepped and ready hanging out in the freezer since late October/early November - in theory, it saves SO MUCH TIME.  But the reality?  Making that many cookies - even with the prepared, thawed dough takes all afternoon.

Yesterday, I made chocolate chip cookies (around 70, I think) peanut butter (around 60) and the gingersnaps (also around 70).  Yes, I know - that's a LOT of cookies.

Today I made the peanut butter fudge (a double batch! My neighbor two doors down LOVES this fudge), a double batch of the infamous but ridiculously easy almond bark and the spritz cookies (around 80).  And although, I  finally figured out the secret to this dough last year; this particular cookie is still a significant amount of work and MESS to make.  I seriously thought about posting a picture of the state of my kitchen after making said cookies; but determined that my self-esteem could not live with the thought of that mess hanging out on the internet for all of eternity.

As I am unsure of the rule of the said Christmas Cookie Swap; I shall share the recipes for each treat below in the order in which my recipes are appearing before me as I type:

Almond Bark (amended to read "Ridiculously Easy and Incredibly Delicious Almond Bark")

6 squares of semi-sweet chocolate bar (1 bar)

6 squares of white chocolate (1 bar)

1 cup toasted almonds

Toast the almond (watch carefully; do not let them burn).  I usually do this on the stovetop in a skillet stirring constantly.  Microwave chocolate and white chocolate in separate bowls on high for 2 minutes or until almost melted.  Again, watch carefully.  I generally let it go for a minute, stop to stir and guesstimate how much more time will be needed.  I stop before it's fully melted to stir the chocolate until fully melted.  FYI, white chocolate seems to melt quicker than the semi-sweet. Stir equal amounts of almonds into each bowl.  On a was paper lined cookie sheet, alternately spoon melted chocolates.  Swirl chocolates together with a knife to marbleize.  Refrigerate 1 hour or until firm.  Break into pieces.

Peanut Butter Fudge (also ridiculously easy)

1 cup of creamy peanut butter

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon of salt

4 cups(!) powdered sugar

Line an 8 inch or 9 inch square baking pan with foil; leaving an overlap to lift finished fudge out.

Melt the peanut butter and butter together in a large bowl (I use the microwave - again watching carefully). Stop the microwave every minute or so to stir the mixture until completely melted and smooth.  Once done, stir in the vanilla using a large rubber spatula or wooden spoon.   Add the salt and stir.  Add the powdered sugar and stir until completely combined.  The mixture should be very thick and resemble cookie dough.  Press the fudge into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with the back of a spatula or spoon.  Cover tightly with foil and chill for at least 4 hours or until firm.  Cut into pieces.

Gingersnaps

6 tablespoons shortening

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 cup sugar

1/3 cup molasses

1 egg

2 1/3 cup flour

2 teaspoons baking soda

2 teaspoons ground ginger

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 cup sugar to roll dough balls in

In a large bowl cream sugar, shortening and butter.  Add molasses and egg and beat again until everything is combined.  In a separate bowl whisk together the dry ingredients; add to the butter mixture; mix well.  Cover and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.  When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350 F.  Roll dough in small balls.  Drop and roll in the extra sugar until fully coated.  Place balls 2 inches apart on a greased (or parchment paper lined) cookie sheet.  Bake for about 11 minutes for cookies that are crisp with a soft center or up to 13 minutes for a crispier cookie.

Peanut Butter Cookies

These might be my favorite cookies to make; my dad used this exact recipe to make these for us occasionally when we were kids.  They are also another neighbors absolute favorites.

1 1/4 cups all purpose flour

3/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup of butter (unsalted

1/2 cup peanut butter

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup packed (and I mean PACKED) brown (preferably dark) sugar

1 egg

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 375.  Stir/whisk flour, soda and salt.  In a mixer bowl, beat butter for 30 seconds.  Add peanut butter and sugars; beat till fluffy.  Add egg and vanilla; beat well.  Add dry ingredients to the beaten mixture; beat till combined.  Shape dough into 1 inch balls; roll in granulated sugar, if desired (do it).  Place 2 inches apart on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet.  Crisscross each cookie with the tines of a fork.  Bake for about 10 minutes.  Remove and cool.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 1/12 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon of salt

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup shortening

1 cup packed dark brown sugar

1/2 cup sugar

2 eggs

1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1  package of semisweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 375.  Stir together flour, soda and salt.  In a mixer bowl beat butter and shortening for about 30 seconds.  Add sugars and beat till fluffy.  Add eggs and vanilla; beat well.  Add dry ingredients; beating until combined.  Stir in chocolate pieces.  Drop from a teaspoon 2 inches apart onto a parchment paper lined cookie sheet.  Baked for 8-10 minutes.  Remove and cool.

And this is a representation of what my cookie plates will look like tomorrow.

Book Review: In The Garden of Spite - A Novel of The Black Widow of LaPorte by Camilla Bruce

Had you ever heard of one of the most prolific female serial killers in American history?

Neither had I until I picked up this fictionalized version of her atrocities.

And based on my internet sleuthing after reading this book; it may be the closest thing to the truth that we will ever know about Belle Gunness.

One of the descriptors of this book call it An Audacious Novel of Feminine Rage.  And while I do not condone killing people; after what this poor woman went through (I can't figure out if that part was the fictionalized part or not), I can kind of understand that her mind broke and led her to do what she did.

And what happened at the end?  Oh, well. I think that was the most horrific part and possibly broke her mind (and heart) even more.

After all this time, we will never know the true story of what actually went down; but this book gives as good a theory as we are ever going to get.

I simply could not put this book down.

Were the details of some of the killings a little graphic?  Yes.  But the underlying story was what kept pulling me back to this book.  To the detriment of my household chores, sadly.  I now have a lot of catching up to do.