Christine Kelly Reads and Writes

This month I was able to get through two audio books (yay long walks and 1.5 speed!) and I finished one book I picked up on and off throughout the summer.

My first read was inspired because I have seen it on so many editor MSWL along with many comps. MY DARK VANESSA by Kate Elizabeth Russel was a extremely well done nuanced novel. The character arc was subtle and powerful. And it gives you enough to have sympathy yet also frustration. The writing and prose was engaging yet done in a different style that really felt personal and…dragged you through the mud with the MC. Let me note that this has a slew of trigger warnings and be sure you’re in a mental space where you can handle the heavy topics. But boy oh boy is it a well done book.

I also listened to IMOGEN, OBVIOUSLY by Becky Albertalli. This had been on my list for a while but I listened to her speak at Romance Con and knew I had to get to something of hers asap. This was the first of many, because OH MY GOD IT WAS SO GOOD (and much different than my other audio book- it’s called range). The banter! The interiority! The sense of being *seen*! I absolutely adored and devoured this book. If I could do banter like Becky, I’ll die happy.

Lastly, I read THE OTHER SIDE OF DISSAPEARING, by Kate Clayborn. This was a unique romance as I felt like it hadn’t been done before. It was fresh and Kate Clayborn is mother (if you’re on Threads, you know.) I had the privilege of hearing her speak at SpringFling back in April (March?!), and she is just the best communicator in both real life and in story.

What was your favorite read of September? Drop me your recs for October? My TBR is already spilling over, may as well topple it!