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darthvadersgirl · 6 years ago

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We’re just about to head into the fall publishing season and there are so many amazing books that I’m looking forward to and I wanted to share the joy by putting together this preview.

Since there are a lot of books on this list I’m going to be keeping the descriptions to no more than a few sentences. Which if I’m being perfectly honest, is usually all I need to know if a book is up my alley. And if you’re the kind of person who needs to know more, never fear! The titles are linked to Goodreads so you can read their full synopsis and add them to your to-read shelf.

August 28th 2018

I’m Afraid of Men by Vivek Shraya

A trans artist explores how masculinity was imposed on her as a boy and continues to haunt her as a girl–and how we might reimagine gender for the twenty-first century.

Seafire by Natalie C. Parker

The first in a trilogy that recalls the power of Wonder Woman and the powder-keg action of Mad Max: Fury Road, Seafire follows the captain of an all-female ship intent on taking down a vicious warlord’s powerful fleet.

Toil & Trouble: 15 Tales of Women & Witchcraft edited by Tess Sharpe and Jessica Spotswood

An anthology of 15 stories featuring contemporary, historical, and futuristic stories featuring witchy heroines who are diverse in race, class, sexuality, religion, geography, and era.

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Sheets by Brenna Thummler

A middle-grade graphic novel about a thirteen-year-old named Marjorie and Wendell, the ghost who makes her family’s laundromat into his nighttime playground.

The House in Poplar Wood by K.E. Ormsbee

For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death – this is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives and presents an alternative: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she’ll help them break the Agreement.

French Exit by Patrick deWit

The author of The Sisters Brothers is back with a darkly comic novel about a wealthy widow and her adult son who flee New York for Paris in the wake of a scandal and financial disintegration

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Mirage by Somaiya Daud

Shatter Me meets The Wrath and the Dawn in this epic fantasy inspired by the author’s Moroccan heritage about a poor girl who must become the body double of a princess of a ruthless empire.

That’s Not What Happened by Kody Keplinger

It’s been three years since the Virgil County High School Massacre when Sarah, was killed in a bathroom stall during the mass shooting proclaiming her faith. But that’s not the real story and her best friend is the only one is knows the truth – but should she break her silence or let everyone else continue to believe in Sarah’s martyrdom.

City of Ghosts by Victoria Schwab

One of my favourite authors is back with a spooky new middle-grade novel, perfect for fans of Stranger Things and Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children about a somewhat inept ghost-hunting team, their daughter Cassidy who can really see ghosts and her best friend Jacob, who just happens to be one.

Bloody Rose by Nicholas Eames

Speaking of Victoria Schwab…she was actually the one who put this book about a band of fabled mercenaries, led by the infamous Bloody Rose on my radar. The novel follows the band as they tour a wild fantasy landscape, battling monsters in arenas in front of thousands of adoring fans, but a secret and dangerous gig ushers them to the frozen north, and the band is never one to waste a shot at glory… even if it means almost certain death.

Exit Stage Left (The Snagglepuss Chronicles) by Mark Russel

A reimaging of the classic cartoon character, as a renowned Southern playwright in 1953. But behind the bright lights, darkness is brewing as Snagglepuss prepares for his next hit play. The Red Scare is in full effect, and the House Un-American Activities Committee is hunting down every last subversive in show business. So far, Snagglepuss has stayed out of their spotlight but Snagglepuss is gay…and his enemies are out to destroy him for it.

September 4th 2018

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The Pasha of Cuisine by Saygun Ersin

For readers of Ken Follett’s Kingsbridge series and Richard C. Morais’s The Hundred-Foot Journey, a sweeping tale of love and the magic of food set during the Ottoman Empire.

Not Even Bones by Rebecca Schaeffer

Dexter meets This Savage Song in this dark fantasy about a girl who sells magical body parts on the black market — until she’s betrayed.

And the Ocean Was Our Sky Written by Patrick Ness, Illustrated by Rovina Cai

The author of The Chaos Walking series, A Monster Calls and The Rest of Us Just Live Here reimagines the classic story of Moby Dick in a way that flips the story of violent obsession on its head with heart-stopping questions about power, loyalty, and the monsters we make.

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Sadie by Courtney Summers

A novel about a missing girl on a journey of revenge and a Serial—like podcast following the clues she’s left behind, from one of my favourite Canadian authors. Please go read All the Rage and Fall For Anything while you wait for this to hit shelves.

A Room Away from the Wolves by Nova Ren Suma

A spellbinding ghost story set in a refuge for troubled girls deep in the heart of New York City, from the author of The Walls Around Us.

The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker

The Booker Prize-winning author of the Regeneration trilogy turns her attention to the timeless legend of The Iliad, as experienced by the captured women living in the Greek camp in the final weeks of the Trojan War.

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The Golden State by Lydia Kiesling

Daphne, a young mother on the edge of a breakdown, flees her sensible but strained life in San Francisco for the high desert of Altavista with her toddler, Honey. Bucking under the weight of being a single parent―her Turkish husband is unable to return to the United States because of a “processing error”―Daphne takes refuge in a mobile home left to her by her grandparents in hopes that the quiet will bring clarity.

Ignite the Stars by Maura Milan

Everyone in the universe knows his name. Everyone in the universe fears him. But no one realizes that notorious outlaw Ia Cocha is a seventeen-year-old girl. This sci-fi debut is perfect for fans of The Lunar Chronicles!

The First Prehistoric Serial Killer and Other Stories by Teresa Solana

Ingenious, always witty and sometimes gruesome short stories by one of Spain’s best-known crime writers.

September 11th 2018

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Ordinary People by Diana Evans

Evoking the sharp insight of Little Fires Everywhere and the sweep of NW, an incisive portrait of the bliss and torment of domestic love.

She Would be King by Wayetu Moore

A novel of exhilarating range, magical realism, and history—a dazzling retelling of Liberia’s formation.

The Mermaid and Mrs. Hancock by Imogen Hermes Gowar

In 1780s London, a prosperous merchant finds his quiet life upended when he unexpectedly receives a most unusual creature—and meets a most extraordinary woman—in this atmospheric debut that examines our capacity for wonder, obsession, and desire.

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The Biggerers by Amy Lilwall

The Biggerers is set in a dystopian future where our two heroes, Bonbon and Jinx, spend their days gathering stones and feathers for their basket and waiting to be fed by their owners. But it’s not long before getting sick, falling in love and wondering why they can’t eat with a spoon pushes them to realize they are exactly the same as their owners … only smaller. For fans of The Borrowers, Munmun and The Truckers.

Rage Becomes Her: The Power of Women’s Anger by Soraya Chemaly

A transformative collection of essays urging twenty-first century-women to embrace their anger and harness it as a tool for lasting personal and societal change.

A Spark of White Fire by Sangu Mandanna

The first in a new series inspired by the Mahabharata and other ancient Indian stories, A Spark of White Fire is a lush, sweeping space opera about family, curses, and the endless battle between jealousy and love.

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Rule by Ellen Goodlett

Three girls. Three deadly secrets. Only one can wear the crown. Three Dark Crowns meets Pretty Little Liars in this fantasy debut.

Woman World by Aminder Dhaliwa

A collection of the hilarious Instagram comic about a world without men, including some previously unpublished material.

The Personality Brokers: The Strange History of Myers-Briggs and the Birth of Personality Testing by Merve Emre

An unprecedented history of a personality test devised in the 1940s by a mother and daughter, both homemakers, that has achieved cult-like status and is used in today’s most distinguished boardrooms, classrooms, and beyond.

Crudo by Olivia Laing

A brilliant, funny, and emphatically raw novel of love on the brink of the apocalypse, from the acclaimed author of The Lonely City.

September 18th 2018

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Washington Black by Esi Edugyan

After he’s falsely accused of murder, young Wash, a field slave-turned-manservant in Barbados, flees the life he knows with the help of an eccentric naturalist, travelling from the eastern coast of America to a remote outpost in the Arctic. From the author of the award-winning international bestseller, Half-Blood Blues comes a dazzling new novel, about a boy who rises from the ashes of slavery to become a free man of the world.

We Sold Our Souls by Grady Hendrix

In this hard-rocking, spine-tingling supernatural thriller, the washed-up guitarist of a ‘90s heavy metal band embarks on an epic road trip across America and deep into the web of a sinister conspiracy.

Secret Passages in a Hillside Town by Pasi Ilmari Jääskeläinen

Tense, atmospheric and very funny, Secret Passages in a Hillside Town is another magical Finnish romance from the author of the acclaimed The Rabbit Back Literature Society.

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The Good Demon by Jimmy Cajoleas

True Detective meets The Exorcist in this gripping YA mystery debut about one girl’s exorcism—and her desperate quest to reunite with her demon

Kens by Raziel Reid

Gay Heathers meets Mean Girls in a new novel from the author of When Everything Feels like the Movies. Heterosexuality is so last season.

Transcription by Kate Atkinson

In 1940, eighteen-year-old Juliet Armstrong is reluctantly recruited into the world of espionage tasked with monitoring the comings and goings of British Fascist sympathizers. Ten years later, now a radio producer at the BBC, Juliet is unexpectedly confronted by figures from her past. A different war is being fought now, on a different battleground, but Juliet finds herself once more under threat.

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Rosewater by Tade Thompson

Rosewater is a town formed around the edges of a mysterious alien biodome, its residents are a tired people eager for a glimpse inside the dome or a taste of its rumoured healing powers. Kaaro, a government agent with a criminal past has seen inside the biodome, and doesn’t care to again — but when something begins killing off others like himself, Kaaro must defy his masters to search for an answer, facing his dark history and coming to a realization about a horrifying future.

The Infinite Blacktop by Sara Gran

A thrilling noir mystery that follows three separate narratives starring the self-proclaimed “world’s greatest detective,” Claire DeWitt.

Strange Grace by Tessa Gratton

Once, a witch made a pact with a devil. The legend says they loved each other, but can the story be trusted at all? Find out in this lush, atmospheric fantasy novel that entwines love, lies, and sacrifice.

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To Make Monsters Out of Girls by Amanda Lovelace

In this first installment, of a new illustrated duology, poet amanda lovelace explores the memory of being in an abusive relationship. She poses the eternal question: Can you heal once you’ve been marked by a monster, or will the sun always sting?

Pride by Ibi Zoboi

In a timely update of Pride and Prejudice, National Book Award finalist and author of American Street Ibi Zoboi skillfully balances cultural identity, class, and gentrification against the heady magic of first love in her vibrant reimagining of this beloved classic.

September 25th 2018

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A Blade So Black by L.L. McKinney

Alice in Wonderland re-imagined as an urban fantasy in Atlanta with a black teen heroine.

The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein by Kiersten White

A reimagining of the classic novel, Frankenstein, from the perspective of Elizabeth Lavenza.

Black Wings Beating by Alex London

Brysen and Kylee are twins but they couldn’t be more different. Brysen wears his heart on his sleeve and strives to be a falconer like his late father but Kylee has no time for love and wants nothing to do with falconry. Together they embark on a journey—Brysen to save the boy he loves, and Kylee to save Brysen from getting killed—into the treacherous Uztari mountains to hunt the legendary Ghost Eagle, a beast deadly enough to sway the tides in a territorial war about to ravage their village.

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Vengeful by V.E. Schwab

A second Victoria Schwab book! This is a tale of super-powers, evil genius, cruelty, and the lengths one will go for vengeance. It’s also the long-awaited sequel to Vicious.

The Sisters of the Winter Wood by Rena Rossner

Captivating and boldly imaginative, with a tale of sisterhood at its heart, Rena Rossner’s debut fantasy invites you to enter a world filled with magic, folklore, and the dangers of the woods.

A Winter’s Promise by Christelle Dabos

Get ready to lose yourself in this French bestseller and the fantastic world of the arks and in the company of unforgettable characters in the English translation of Volume 1 of The Mirror Visitor quartet.

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For a Muse of Fire by Heidi Heilig

The first book in a new trilogy from Heidi Heilig, author of The Girl from Everywhere. A young woman with a dangerous power she barely understands. A smuggler with secrets of his own. A country torn between a merciless colonial army, a terrifying tyrant, and a feared rebel leader. This book is perfect for fans of fans of Sabaa Tahir, Leigh Bardugo, and Renée Ahdieh.

Time’s Convert by Deborah Harkness

The first book in a new series from the author of A Discovery of Witches. A novel about what it takes to become a vampire.

The Caregiver by Samuel Park

From the critically acclaimed author of This Burns My Heart comes a gorgeous, emotionally wise tale about a daughter who unearths the hidden life of her enigmatic mother.

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The Shape of the Ruins by Juan Gabriel Vasquex

When a man is arrested at a museum for attempting to steal the bullet-ridden suit of a murdered Colombian politician, few notice. But soon this thwarted theft takes on greater meaning as it becomes a thread in a widening web of popular fixations with conspiracy theories, assassinations, and historical secrets; and it haunts those who feel that only they know the real truth behind these killings.

A Cathedral of Myth and Bone by Kat Howard

In these sixteen exquisite stories, Kat Howard deftly weaves in and out of the countries of myth and hagiography to write the lives of women untold and unexplored.

Split Tooth by Tanya Tagaq

From the internationally acclaimed Inuit, throat singer comes a heartbreaking story of a pregnant girl growing in Nunavut in the 1970s. Veering back and forth between the grittiest features of a small arctic town, the electrifying proximity of the world of animals, and ravishing world of myth, Tanya Tagaq explores a world where the distinctions between good and evil, animal and human, victim and transgressor, real and imagined lose their meaning, but the guiding power of love remains.

October 2nd 2018

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Star Wars: Women of the Galaxy by Amy Ratcliffe

A celebration of the women of Star Wars! This book gathers 75 profiles with text by Ratcliffe and all-new, incredible artwork from 18 talented female and non-binary artists.

When We Caught Fire by Anna Godbersen

From the New York Times, bestselling author of the Luxe series comes a lush, romantic, soapy YA standalone that tells the story of the love triangle that started Chicago’s infamous Great Fire.

Saga Volume 9 by Brian K Vaughan and Fiona Staples

The multiple Eisner Award-winning series returns with a spacefaring adventure about fake news and genuine terror. Get ready for the most shocking, most impactful SAGA storyline yet.

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All You Can Ever Know by Nicole Chung

The editor in chief of Catapult magazine and the former managing editor of The Toast investigates the mysteries and complexities of her transracial adoption.

Shadow of the Fox by Julie Kagawa

Enter a beautiful and perilous land of shapeshifters and samurai, kami and legends, humans and demons…a world in which Japanese mythology and imagination blend together to create a brand-new and lushly drawn fantasy adventure from the New York Times bestselling author of The Talon Saga and The Iron Fey.

The Spy with the Red Balloon by Katherine Locke

Blackmailed into service during World War II, Ilse lends her magic to America’s newest weapon, the atom bomb, while Wolf goes behind enemy lines to sabotage Germany’s nuclear program. It’s a dangerous mission, but if Hitler were to create the bomb first, the results would be catastrophic. When Wolf’s plane is shot down he needs Ilse’s help to develop the magic that will keep him alive, but with a spy afoot in Ilse’s laboratory, the letters she sends to Wolf begin to look treasonous. Can Ilse prove her loyalty—and find a way to help her brother—before their time runs out?

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Damsel by Elana K. Arnold

A breathless dark fantasy that is also a sharp critique of the patriarchy as it manifests both in traditional fairy tale tropes and in our society today.

Sawkill Girls by Claire Legrand

Fans of Victoria Schwab, Nova Ren Suma, and Netflix’s hit show Stranger Things will crave this frightening standalone contemporary teen horror novel about three girls who take on an insidious monster that preys upon young women.

Mutiny at Vesta by R.E. Stearns

Adda and Iridian have survived the murderous AI that tried to kill them in Barbary Station…but now they’ll need all of their ingenuity to escape the evil megacorporation that wants to own them, in this second space adventure in the Shieldrunner Pirates trilogy.

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The Boneless Mercies by April Genevieve Tucholke

A dark and gorgeously drawn gender-swapped Beowolf, about a band of mercenary girls in search of female glory.

The Lady’s Guide to Petticoats and Piracy by Mackenzi Lee

The highly anticipated sequel to the New York Times bestselling The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue! Felicity Montague must use all her womanly wits and wiles to achieve her dreams of becoming a doctor—even if she has to turn to a life of crime to do it.

The Witch of Willow Hall by Hester Fox

Two centuries after the Salem witch trials, there’s still one witch left in Massachusetts. But she doesn’t even know it…

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On a Sunbeam by Tillie Walden

A graphic novel about a girl who travels to the ends of the universe to find a long lost love from the author of Spinning.

Girl Squads by Sam Maggs

A modern girl is nothing without her squad of besties. But don’t let all the hashtags fool you: the #girlsquad goes back a long, long time. In this hilarious and heartfelt book, geek girl Sam Maggs takes you on a tour of some of history’s most famous female BFFs.

Feuding Fan Dancers: Faith Bacon, Sally Rand, and the Golden Age of the Showgirl by Leslie Zemeckis

Leslie Zemeckis continues to discover the forgotten feminist histories of the golden age of entertainment, turning her sights on the lost stories of Sally Rand and Faith Bacon—icons who each claimed to be the inventor of the notorious fan dance.

October 9th 2018

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Mage Against the Machine by Shaun Barger

Harry Potter meets The Terminator in this action-packed, futuristic adventure about a young man who discovers that everything he believed about his world is a lie.

Odd One Out by Nic Stone

From the New York Times bestselling author of Dear Martin comes this illuminating exploration of old friendships, new crushes, and the path to self-discovery. Told in three voices, Nic Stone’s new book is perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli, Nicola Yoon, and Jason Reynolds.

What If It’s Us by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera

Becky Albertalli, award-winning author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda, and Adam Silvera, New York Times bestselling author of They Both Die at the End, combine their talents in this funny, heartfelt collaboration about Arthur and Ben, two very different boys who can’t decide if the universe is pushing them together—or pulling them apart.

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Killing Commendatore by Haruki Murakami

An epic tour de force of love and loneliness, war and art–as well as a loving homage to The Great Gatsby, from the brilliant Haruki Murakami.

The Witch Elm by Tana French

A new standalone novel from the author of the Dublin Murder Squad series!

Blanca & Roja by Anna Marie McLemore

Award-winning author Anna-Marie McLemore retells Swan Lake in this spellbinding YA story of sisters who are each other’s best friends—and worst enemies.

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Light Years by Kass Morgan

Hidden secrets and forbidden love collide at an interstellar military boarding school in a new sci-fi series from the author of The 100.

Beneath the Citadel by Destiny Soria

A sweeping fantasy about four teens and a fateful prophecy from the acclaimed author of IronCast

The Phoenix Empress by K. Arsenault Rivera

The sequel to K Arsenault Rivera’s incredible novel, The Tiger’s Daughter, an epic historical fantasy in the vein of Patrick Rothfuss and Naomi Novik.

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Dear Evan Hansen by Val Emmich

From the show’s creators comes the groundbreaking novel inspired by the Broadway smash hit Dear Evan Hansen.

Exiles Vol 1 written by Saladin Ahmed, illustrated by Javier Rodriguez

Blink’s talents are needed once again! When a mysterious threat begins eating away at the fabric of reality, the Unseen – the man once known as Nick Fury, who can now only watch Earth from a lofty post on the Moon – recruits her as his champion to save all that is. But Blink can’t do it alone. She’ll need a team drawn from across the Marvel Multiverse.

Movers and Shakers: Women Making Waves in Spirits, Beer and Wine by Hope Ewing

A collection of stories and advice from the first female master brewers, innovative self-starter winemakers, most badass bartenders and more, sharing how they got started in the alcohol industry and the challenges they’ve faced

October 16th 2018

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In the House in the Dark of the Woods by Laird Hunt

The eerie, disturbing story of one of our perennial fascinations–witchcraft in colonial America–wrapped up in a lyrical novel of psychological suspense.

Home and Away by Candice Montgomery

Friday Night Lights meets Dear Martin in this thought-provoking coming-of-age story about family, identity, and forgiveness.

Unsheltered by Barbara Kingsolver

A new novel from the author of The Poisonwood Bible. Unsheltered is the story of two families, in two centuries, who live at the corner of Sixth and Plum, as they navigate the challenges of surviving a world in the throes of major cultural shifts.

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A Very Large Expanse of Sea by Tahereh Mafi

It’s 2002, a year after 9/11, and Shirin has just started at yet another school. It’s an extremely turbulent time for the world, but especially for someone like Shirin, a sixteen-year-old Muslim girl who’s tired of being stereotyped. From the author of the Shatter Me series comes a gorgeous and heartrending contemporary novel inspired by her own experiences with first love, breakdancing, and the devastating impact of prejudice.

The Library Book by Susan Orlean

Susan Orlean, hailed as a “national treasure” by The Washington Post and the acclaimed bestselling author of Rin Tin Tin and The Orchid Thief, reopens the unsolved mystery of the most catastrophic library fire in American history, and delivers a dazzling love letter to a beloved institution—our libraries.

October 23rd 2018

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The Light Between Worlds by Larua E. Weymouth

What happens after you return to the real world after being in a fantastical one like Narnia? Told in dual POV and chapters that alternate between the fantasy world of the Woodlands and post-WWII England, debut author Laura E. Weymouth’s magical and lyrical novel is an exploration of loss and healing and what it means to find where you belong.

An Assassin’s Guide to Love and Treason by Virginia Boecker

Philippa Gregory meets Mr. and Mrs. Smith in this witty and thrilling action-adventure novel of star-crossed assassins in Elizabethan England.

Little by Edward Carey

The wry, macabre, unforgettable tale of an ambitious orphan in Revolutionary Paris, befriended by royalty and radicals, who transforms herself into the legendary Madame Tussaud.

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Harry Potter: A Pop-Up Guide to Hogwarts by Kevin Wilson

Exactly what it sounds like! An interactive guide to the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with pop-up re-creations of key locations inside and outside the castle.

The Books of Earthsea: The Complete Illustrated Edition by Ursula K. Le Guin (illustrated by Charles Vess)

Commemorating the 50th anniversary of A Wizard of Earthsea, this omnibus edition collects fifty illustrations by Charles Vess (commissioned by Le Guin herself), as well as some additional stories and Le Guin’s “Earthsea Revisioned” Oxford lecture.

October 30th 2018

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The Brilliant Death by Amy Rose Capetta

An Italian-inspired fantasy romance about a Mafia daughter from the author of Entangled and Echo After Echo.

Abbott by Saladin Ahmed

In the uncertain social and political climate of 1972, Detroit, hard-nosed, chain-smoking tabloid reporter Elena Abbott investigates a series of grisly crimes that the police have ignored. Crimes she knows to be the work of dark occult forces. Forces that took her husband from her. Forces she has sworn to destroy.

Alice Isn’t Dead by Joseph Fink

From the co-author of It Devours! and the podcast Welcome to Night Vale comes a fast-paced thriller about a truck driver searching across America for the wife she had long assumed to be dead.

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This is Kind of an Epic Love Story by Kheryn Callender

A fresh, charming rom-com perfect for fans of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda and Boy Meets Boy about Nathan Bird, who has sworn off happy endings but is sorely tested when his former best friend, Ollie, moves back to town.

The Monster Baru Cormorant by Seth Dickinson

Even more sweeping and heart-wrenching than its 2015 prequel, The Monster Baru Cormorant is the epic follow-up to the critically acclaimed The Traitor Baru Cormorant. A breathtaking geopolitical thriller as fraught as Game of Thrones about one woman’s scheme to destroy an empire from within.

I Might Regret This: Essays, Drawings, Vulnerabilities, and Other Stuff by Abbi Jacobson

From the co-creator and co-star of the hit series Broad City, comes a hilarious and poignant collection about love, loss, work, comedy, and figuring out who you really are when you thought you already knew.

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The Governesses by Anne Serre

Written with the elegance of old French fables, the dark sensuality of Djuna Barnes and the subtle comedy of Robert Walser, this semi-deranged erotic fairy tale introduces American readers to the marvellous Anne Serre.

Isola Volume 1 by Brenden Fletcher, Karl Kerschl and Msassyk

An evil spell has been cast on the Queen of Maar and her Captain of the Guard will do anything to reverse it. Their only hope lies on an island half a world away–a place known in myth as Isola, land of the dead. From two of the creators of Gotham Academy comes a new series recommended for fans of Studio Ghibli and the work of Hayao Miyazaki.

Paperback Crush: The Totally Radical History of ’80s and ’90s Teen Fiction by Gabrielle Moss

Every twenty- or thirty-something woman knows these books. The pink covers, the flimsy paper, the zillion volumes in the series that kept you reading for your entire adolescence. In six hilarious chapters (Friendship, Love, School, Family, Jobs, Terror, and Tragedy), Bustle Features Editor Gabrielle Moss takes the reader on a nostalgic tour of teen book covers of yore, digging deep into the history of the genre as well as the stories behind the best-known series.

After Emily: Two Remarkable Women and the Legacy of America’s Greatest Poet by Julie Dobrow

Despite Emily Dickinson’s world renown, the story of the two women most responsible for her initial posthumous publication—Mabel Loomis Todd and her daughter, Millicent Todd Bingham—has remained in the shadows of the archives. A rich and compelling portrait of women who refused to be confined by the social mores of their era, After Emily explores their complex bond, as well as the powerful literary legacy they shared.

November 6th 2018

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The Best Bad Things by Katrina Carrasco

Trained in espionage by the Pinkerton Detective Agency—but dismissed for bad behaviour—Alma Rosales now works for Delphine Beaumond, the mastermind of a West Coast smuggling ring. When the product goes missing, Alma disguises herself as a scrappy dockworker, Jack Camp, and is ready to muscle her way into the local organization, win the trust of the magnetic local boss, discover the turncoat, and keep them all from uncovering her secrets.

Girls of Paper and Fire by Natasha Ngan

Each year, eight beautiful girls are chosen as Paper Girls to serve the king. It’s the highest honour they could hope for…and the most demeaning. This year, there’s a ninth. And instead of paper, she’s made of fire.

Those Who Knew by Idra Novey

On an unnamed island country ten years after the collapse of a U.S.-supported regime, Lena suspects the powerful senator she was involved with back in her student activist days is taking advantage of a young woman who’s been introducing him at rallies. When the young woman ends up dead, Lena revisits her own fraught history with the senator and the violent incident that ended their relationship.

Toxic by Lydia Kang

Told from the dual POVs of an artificially created Korean girl and a biracial Chinese mercenary, this thrilling sci-fi romance is perfect for fans of Beth Revis and Amie Kaufman.

Alice Payne Arrives by Kate Heartfield

A novella about a disillusioned major, a highwaywoman, and a war raging across time.

Blame this on the Boogie by Rina Ayuyang

The true story of how Hollywood musicals got one person through school, depression, and the challenges of parenthood.

This is What it Feels Like by Rebecca Barrow

It doesn’t matter what the prize for the Sun City Originals contest is this year. Because Dia knows that without a band, she hasn’t got a shot at winning Sun City. It used to be the three of them, Dia, Jules, and Hanna, messing around and making music. But that was then, and this is now—and now means a baby, a failed relationship, a stint in rehab, all kinds of off beats that have interrupted the rhythm of their friendship. No contest can change that. Right?

November 13th 2018

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Empire of Sand by Tasha Suri

A nobleman’s daughter with magic in her blood. An empire built on the dreams of enslaved gods. Empire of Sand is Tasha Suri’s captivating, Mughal India-inspired debut fantasy.

Pulp by Robin Talley

Robin Talley, the New York Times bestselling author of Lies We Tell Ourselves, weaves a stunning dual narrative story of two gay teens, one in 1955 and the other in present day, connected by their interest in the literary legacy of lesbian pulp fiction.

Becoming by Michelle Obama

A powerful, and inspiring memoir by the former First Lady of the United States.

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This Splintered Silence by Kayla Olson

Lindley Hamilton has been the leader of the space station Lusca since every first-generation crew member on board, including her mother, the commander, were killed by a deadly virus. This sci-fi thriller is perfect for fans of The Illuminae Files

A Ladder to the Sky by John Boyne

The new novel from the beloved New York Times bestselling author of The Boy in the Striped Pajamas and The Heart’s Invisible Furies, a seductive Highsmithian psychodrama following one brilliant, ruthless man who will stop at nothing in his pursuit of fame.

We Can Save Us All by Adam Nemett

A ribald novel about a group of alienated Princeton students who respond to escalating climate change by forming an end times cult inspired by superheroes.

November 20th 2018

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My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite

Satire meets slasher in this short, darkly funny hand grenade of a novel about a Nigerian woman whose younger sister has a very inconvenient habit of killing her boyfriends.

All the Lives We Never Lived by Anuradha Roy

From the Man Booker Prize-nominated author of Sleeping on Jupiter, The Folded Earth, and An Atlas of Impossible Longing, a poignant and sweeping novel set in India during World War II and the present-day about a son’s quest to uncover the truth about his mother.

City of Broken Magic by Mirag Bolender

This fast-paced, adventure fantasy novella from Tor.com, features a bomb squad that defuses magic weapons.

Domino by Gail Simone, illustrated by David Baldeón

The product of a failed super-soldier program, Neena Thurman always made her own luck as the sharpshooting mercenary known as Domino…but what happens when her own powers betray her?

December 2018

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Hunting Game by Helene Tursten

The first installment in Helene Tursten’s brand new series featuring the strong, smart Detective Inspector Embla Nyström.

The Disasters by M.K. England

The Breakfast Club meets Guardians of the Galaxy in this YA sci-fi adventure debut.

Moonstruck Vol 2: Some Enchanted Evening by Grace Ellis, Shae Beagle and Kat Fajardo

Werewolf barista Julie and her supernatural friends try to unwind at a party, but a conniving fraternity of fairy bros has other plans for our heroes. With one of their friends trapped in the frat house and the winter solstice (a notable night of magical mischief) looming ever-closer, it’s up to the amorous werewolves and gregarious centaur to save the day.

Josephine Baker’s Last Dance by Sherry Jones

A novel based on the life of legendary performer and activist Josephine Baker, perfect for fans of The Paris Wife and Hidden Figures.

14 Weeks, 121 Titles: The 2018 Mega Fall Books Preview We're just about to head into the fall publishing season and there are so many amazing books that I'm looking forward to and I wanted to share the joy by putting together this preview.

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igglemouse · 3 days ago

Text

It was a good thing that I did not spend too much time at the gym last night because of course I had to wake up and take care of Flora once again in the middle of the night.

Yeah, it's not easy, but I will say that the very sight of her, wriggling and demanding attention and care, is enough motivation to wake up at three in the morning and take care of her. Babies just have no sense of time!

But mama has to take care of herself too and that means breakfast. I'm up early enough for it any ways so why not make cinnamon oatmeal? It's easy and more importantly it is quick. You know how it is when sometimes you are just so hungry you want to eat as soon as possible? Yeah, that's how I'm feeling.

And while the taste of cinnamon oatmeal is tempting there is also another familiar feeling that I'm having this morning...

So I spent a lot of the morning in the restroom, as you can imagine, and barely ate and to get my mind off of what is going on with me I dive into work. Editing videos can be very distracting and its exactly what I need right now.

Yeah, I know, I can't run from it for long but just let me have this one day...

I'm all about distractions today actually and since it is Saturday it's the perfect time to sit down and watch a movie. Simder is our choice and wow it's just what I need! It's such an emotional roller coaster!

I can only imagine Flora old enough and watching it with her and her...brother or sister? Ah! I really don't want to think about the possibility that I'm pregnant again! I'm trying not to but...

"So what did you think?" I ask him as the credits roll, still with pregnancy on the mind but trying not to think too much about it because the idea of taking care of Flora WHILE being pregnant seems like a mountain that I can't climb.

"It was alright I guess," an expected response from him. "I'm not really much of a movie person."

"Uh huh, maybe we can watch a sports movie next time then?" He likes the idea of that while meanwhile I'm wondering how I will break the news to him.

The day goes on and soon I'm found soaking in the tub and contemplating life itself.

Okay, so yeah, I am expecting. I took the test before dipping into the bath because knowing is better than just remaining ignorant and trying to deny reality. I must accept it and now that I have I begin to think that it is better this way. At least Flora's little sibling will be close in age to her.

Actually, the more I think about it, the happier I am about it and I know Pascal will be happy to hear it. He did say he wanted another, which is easy of course for him to say.

The first person to know will be the smallest person in the house because she can't tell anyone at all! She's happy to see me too at least until I tell her she will be a big sister and then she's crying her eyes out.

To be fair, she just doesn't like being held for too long but hey this means she won't ever be spoiled as the only child at least! She's going to have to learn how to share at a very early age!

I spend time just playing with her until her little self gets tired and yawns and is ready for I hope a nice long sleep so that she doesn't bother Pascal too much.

Somehow, someway, I'll have to spread my love between two children. Right now, it seems impossible, but parents do it, right? Good ones do, I suppose. I don't want to play favorites after all.

I head to the gym because Marjorie had actually contacted me and asked if I wanted to hang out and after what happened yesterday, why not? I feel like yeah, she has some explaining to do, but maybe she just wants to hang out?

Of course the moment I step inside I'm not only greeted by the clanking of weights, the playing of some bouncy poppy music in the background, but by Marcus as well. He's working so hard that I can see the strain of his muscles and the occasional grunt. My plan was to just walk past him and look for Marjorie but the way he glares at me forces me to stop.

"Looks like you gained weight over night," he says with a scowl, seemingly ready for an argument.

"And chu are now more meaner," I say in passing and quickly avoid him. Thankfully he just laughs and gets back to working out.

Of course I find her in the yoga room doing warm up stretches.

"No tired yet?" I ask her grabbing her attention for a moment.

"Frida! no, not yet, gotta work to work, you know?"

I don't. That's not a phrase I've ever heard but before I can think about it she's continuing. "Here to work out too? You didn't get to get much in with what happened yesterday, sorry about that by the way."

"O-oh, it is good Marj, chu can't control others," there, that's good enough for me. Sometimes your friends have bad taste in men and it sucks but I can't live her life for her. "Chu know, he say something about me when I came on? He said I gained weight over night."

"You know Frida," she starts in that tone that hints that she should probably not say what she is thinking about saying. "You HAVE gained weight."

"Marj," I say low, warning her not to go down this path, but she is going.

"Marcus is a good man, he means well, he just thinks being honest about things is the only way to go and honestly, you've gained weight. That is a fact by the looks of it."

I'm not sure what to say to that or if I should say anything at all. Defensively, I want to announce that I'm pregnant again, which would explain the weight gain, not that it needs to be explained, but I'm too shocked to say anything at all.

"Frida, I'm sorry I didn't mean-"

"No, chu meant it! Bye, Marj," and I'm not sure if this is a final goodbye or not but right now I just can't continue a relationship with her. It is one thing to defend him, that I understand, make excuses for him. I probably would do the same for Pascal, but it is another to agree and also insult me. I draw the line at that. I have way too much going on in my life to deal with people like this!

Frida Varela - Next Episode 10.3

#The Sims #The Sims 4 #ts4 #Sims #Sims 4 #sims legacy #my sims #generation 1 #soot #sims of our time #frida varela #marjorie whipple #marcus lawton #florencia alcocer #pascal alcocer

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igglemouse · 7 months ago

Text

So today is Summer Solstice Day which means...a celebration of summer, I guess? I do have one minor plan for it and that's to visit the local swim park later today with Pascal. At least for a moment. He actually has to work today but I know we'll make the most of the time we have together.

As for now I'm starting my morning cooking an egg salad! I think that's a healthy breakfast!

I think I've gotten used to cooking breakfast for Pascal. I never would have imagined it, to be honest, spending my time in the kitchen for my boyfriend but...it's not a problem for me because cooking is no chore. It's something I really enjoy doing and it seems like Pascal enjoys it as well.

"Egg salad?" he looks down at the meal I had prepped for him with some, looking down at his bowl with some distaste. "N-no, I'm not saying its bad but-"

"Give it a try!" I tell him, although the look on his face tells me he's not too excited about it. "You said you are on a strict diet! I figure you'd need lots of proteins and-"

"Frida, yes, but...it's nothing. I was hoping you'd cook those waffles of yours or pancakes or...something like that? This way I have an excuse for cheating on my meal today when the team dietician asks me. I'd say, oh, my girlfriend made this, but this..." he looks down at the bowl again and shakes his head. "You are way too considerate!" he jokes.

After we finish our breakfast we settle into something more usual. He was studying his next opponent while I couldn't allow myself to live in a dirty house with dust floating around everywhere.

And after that he's outside kicking a ball around. It makes me think about what Sara had said days ago of him. How dedicated he is to his craft which is something I certainly see now. It's almost like he's practicing before going out to practice?

But as I've mentioned today, for me at least, is about summer and celebrating summer! So, I manage to drag Pascal off to the community pool park and thankfully, with it being so cloudy for whatever reason, we both drop right into the pool before others arrive.

We basically just spend some time wading through the water, teasing each other, and splashing each other.

"You know, if you're such a big shot, why has no one asked for your autograph yet?" I taunt and at that he splashes me in the face with a handful of water.

"I'm still a sub, you know!"

I splash him back in the face then, revenge, but he only laughs at my attempt.

"I'll be giving you my autograph later tonight," he tells me and I can't help but laugh at that. You know, he just might, but I've learned pretty quickly that Pascal is often so very tired after 'work', yes, so tired that sex just isn't appealing and that's saying a lot because we've been at it a lot since I've virtually moved in.

Our outing together wasn't long and so off to 'work' Pascal goes, leaving me at the park pretty much alone. Some people wander in but they seem to also be on some kind of solo mission. Perhaps this is a place people come to celebrate Summer Solstice alone?

So, with little else to do I find the nearest grill and get to cooking. Barbecue is not my specialty, in fact, this is my first time using a grill and so why not try the first thing one thinks of when grilling?

I feel like my first attempt at ribs are not bad, nothing perfect, but definitely good enough to eat. Cooking is cooking, after all, and its a lot like riding a bike. At least for me.

But I really do not plan on spending the rest of this day alone and so I call in some reinforcement. Sara and Marj who, still being single ladies, were both just sitting at home doing nothing. They both jumped at the chance to meet at the pool.

It did not take long for either of them to arrive and it did not take long before we decided to settle into a hot tub. Sure, it's a public one, which kind of sucks, but once you're in, you're in, and you put any stray thoughts about what might go on in a public hot tub out of your mind.

"Surprised you just didn't invite us over to Pascal's place, I imagine it has a pool, hot tub, game room, a-"

I'm shaking my head as it really has none of that stuff.

"Must be the frugal type," Marjorie adds in along with a chuckle.

I shrug. "I've not been with him that much," I say, because I don't know anything about his finances only that they are better than mines. His house is nice but it's not the kind of place they've imagined it to be.

"You know," Sara says. "I kind of doubt that. He's the flashy type on the field. I've seen him kick it over a defenders head a few times, and then he-"

You can almost hear Marjorie's eyes rolling. "Can we not spend our time here talking about socc-"

"Fútbol!" Sara insists.

I just laugh. I might be a third wheel when it comes to these two but it's fun to watch them go back and forth.

We weren't just here to chat though because what is a day celebrating summer without some kind of summer activity? There was a waterslide at the park and no one was using it so it seemed a perfect chance to let loose a little and enjoy the day doing something a little different.

As you can see, some of us were better at water sliding than others. I won't name any names but at least no one got hurt!

We linger a little more around the pool since the day was nice, perfect almost, and it allowed us to just hang around more without the fear of melting.

Of course Sara wanted to talk about Pascal a little more which at this point I would not allow because she can be annoyingly nosy. Already knowing about Sara's situation and her lack of confidence when it comes to men I instead direct my curiosity towards Marjorie. "Do chu have a boyfriend?"

Sara starts to laugh then and Marjorie does too but only after some time.

"Marjorie has a mens every season, for about a week and then..." she starts laughing again. "He dumps her-"

"No!" Marjorie cuts in right away. "I dump him! Look, my advice to you, Frida, if Pascal is halfway decent, cling to him, because you might not find anyone better."

"She's very picky," Sara teases although I can tell this tease isn't met with mirth or humor from Marjorie.

"That is bad?" I ask a little casually but I can tell from the small smile Marj gives that she appreciates that.

"Thank you, Frida. Some of us just have high standards. I'd rather be single and happy than coupled and miserable."

Thankfully the tension between these two remained light and we were happy to continue our outing and talk about anything other than relationships or Pascal.

I get back home and decide to make a little ice cream for myself. I think sometimes I get so caught up cooking for others that I rarely make things for myself. That definitely needs to change and so it's nice having a cone of ice cream solely for myself.

I wasn't sure what to do with the rest of my day and just when I think it'll be possible to just sit back, kick my feet up, and relax, I get a call.

It's from Irene, my new friend. She asks if it is alright if her boss comes over and talk to me about a job opportunity. That he's interested in hiring me.

How can I say no to that? I might as well see what he's offering, like I mentioned before.

And so I wait until he arrives and once he does we sit down on the couch. I'm starting to realize that while I don't really live here I'm staring to behave as if I do, after all, I'm inviting someone into Pascal's place while he's not here. I hope he'll be alright with it? He's not here to say anything about it at least.

Any ways, the man introduces himself as Martin Lucena and I can tell just by how he carries himself that he's a man that gets right to business and he proves it because the first thing he says to me after introductions is "So, here is my offer. You come in as a sous-chef, 2nd in command, and-"

"I-I'm not sure I can do that," and here I am already denying his offer. My reply comes out too quick, I'm not sure why but already the vibe is off. There's a desperation hiding in his offer that tells me this is the wrong move. I'm ready to tell him to have a good day and escort him out but he's stuck to the couch, deciding he will not be put off so easily.

"I was going to say that you would not have the responsibilities of the role, do not worry, I realize you don't have the experience for it but I do think your presence would help my business."

No, this is not right. I might not be the smartest girl but I was born with street smarts. I had to be in order to still have a head on my shoulders. Why give someone a job if you don't think they are capable of doing it? "How? How can I help?"

"You bring a level of authenticity to the restaurant," he admits. "Your food stand is as authentic as can be, its why it's doing so well. People can tell you do it because you enjoy doing it, people can tell you honor your heritage, people can just feel it. It's, well, IT, as it's called. You have an aura around you that people want to be around."

"Yes yess..." I'm not convinced.

"So you'll be paid well, you won't have to do much. You'll have to close your food stand, of course, you'll be making a lot more," he laughs a little, too dismissively for my tastes. "So you won't need that little stand right now."

"No." I say, that decided it for me. While his logic is sound I don't like the feeling of it. It feels wrong. If he had told me that I could keep my stand open maybe I would have changed my initial feeling on this but...

"No?" He repeats as if he needs to hear it again. "What do you mean no? We can negotiate a little, we can-"

"No, no to it all." I clarify because it seems he wasn't getting it. "Thank chu for the job but no. Just no."

A large groan pushes from his lips, his face twists into one of anger and only anger, and I'm suddenly wishing Pascal were here but before those fears could settle his face softens.

"What a stupid mistake, the biggest mistake you've made in your young life." The tone to his voice tells me this is not over. What this is, I'm not sure, but I know that I've made an enemy today.

"Y-your place es very good, Mr. Lucena! I love eating there and I-"

"We're done here. I do not waste time with fools."

He leaves in a huff and a puff and makes me regret meeting him at all.

Episode List - Next Episode 5 ‘Offsides’

#The Sims #The Sims 4 #ts4 #Sims #Sims 4 #sims legacy #my sims #generation 1 #soot #sims of our time #frida varela #pascal alcocer #sara chavez #marjorie whipple #martin lucena

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igglemouse · 4 months ago

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So I guess it is official. I've moved in, I'm pregnant, if that doesn't make things official then what does? There is something missing though, a final piece of the puzzle that prevents the picture from being complete. A ring? Yeah, I guess so, but the thought of him proposing and us being married feels off somehow.

I'd say yes, at least I think so but...any ways, I won't let my mind wander too far down that path and instead focus a little more on whats in front of me and what is on my plate. Chicken and waffles! Sweet sticky syrup paired with the savory of chicken is enough to pull my thoughts away from what might be and focus on where things are.

And right now things are going right into this toilet, over and over and over again. This whole first trimester thing has not been fun, not that I was expecting it to be but this little restroom has become a little too familiar for me.

Still, there is an undercurrent of excitement that is hard to ignore. I've always planned on being a mother and now its happening! Not how I expected it but things don't always go how we expect, right? I'll just take things one day at a time and try to make this experience go as smooth as possible.

One thing I'll make sure to do a lot more of is taking care of my body, after all, I want to make sure my baby will come out with no complaints, but this is a great excuse for some TLC!

So I head to the Desert Spa and Fitness center, settle into a plush chair, and ask for a pedi and a foot massage. Just letting myself merge into the chair and letting my mind drift a little. I hear being a mother is hard work so I'm going to relax as much as I can before it's officially official.

I had no plans on working out today so I tried to slip through the gym area of the building unnoticed but I don't get far before running into Marjorie. I think she lives here? It sure seems that way. She flags me down at once and it would be rude to ignore her at this point.

"Carrying huh?" She says, her eyes zeroing in on the little bump that is there. "That didn't take long."

"Only takes one," I say, my hand instinctively rubbing my belly, an almost automatic response whenever someone mentions it. It's comforting and a reminder that it won't be too long before my new little family becomes bigger by one. "No working out?" I notice she isn't drenched in sweat.

"Umm, no, actually," she hesitates, glances around some as if to make sure no one else is listening. "I've been crushing on a guy here. I didn't want to start sweating and-"

"He could like it, no?" I say, because some guys might like that? Men have odd fetishes sometimes. A lot of times, actually.

Marjorie pauses to think about it. "Hmmm, you know, you might be on to something..."

The moment I step through the front door I am welcomed to the familiar music of Pascal working out. The hum of the treadmill mixed with the beat of his feet pounding right through it. I can't help but admire the dedication but he truly seems tireless. I wonder if this stamina helps him on the field? I actually haven't really watched him play a game yet, that will change, eventually.

While his passion is working out mines is cooking and with plenty of time in the day it gives me plenty of time to just that. There's just so much to enjoy about it and there is a rhythm to it as well. The chopping, the stirring, the scents that fill the air as it all comes together to make something truly delicious.

Today's focus is pizza but I make a few other side dishes as well. I do need to restock my food stand and although my business has been in a slump I don't plan on letting it slow me down.

And yes my counter is a little dirty at the end but that just means I've been hard at work!

With everything cooked and ready to go I head right to the park and open my stand. It's always a pleasure to place the dishes and see who shows up and I can't help but fill that today I will turn things around. Just a hope. I guess and then I'm ready to fill my stand with everything I've cooked and open it for business!

A foolish hope it turns out. Customers trickle by, glance, and then just keep walking and after standing here for over an hour I'm starting to regret the whole thing. Is this the new normal for me? Yes, I know, that old man has been trying to destroy my little business but it can't all be his fault? Perhaps the food just isn't that good? Quality is quality, right? Again, it doesn't do too well and I'm starting to feel like this is a new normal? I'm starting to have doubts. Maybe my food was never good, after all, quality is quality, and maybe after a few plates people just move on from it?

I don't know, whatever the reason, I can't keep this up. The bright summer sun brings on fatigue and let's remember, I'm pregnant, and it's hard having to monitor a stand when you have to rush to the bathroom as often I do because I had to drink water being out in the sun for so long but it sure wasn't going to sit in my belly for long...

It was time to call it a night for Irene although the idea of sleep for her seemed distant. The eight of the day pressed heavily down on her, forcing her to do nothing by lie on her bed and wonder what was next for her?

It wasn't just another job. She couldn't shrug this off and move on and start fresh. No, this was more, this was a career she was fired from, her passion, and it hurt more because she couldn't figure out the why of it.

She replayed the event in her mind knowing now the mistake of trusting Martin. She had been so excited and full of hope when she revealed her dream to him. How she would start her own restaurant one day, and idea she discussed with a friend, Frida Varela, that one name at once souring his mood.

At that moment Martin crushed her dream and did it with a smirk. He enjoyed it, she realized now, laughing at how he had to fire her and finding amusement in the whole thing as if it were some joke of his. What made it worse? He offered to hire her back but only as a waitress, adding a wink that oozed with condescension and and disrespect.

Now she was left with nothing. She had loved her job, she had loved being a chef and she was quickly climbing up the line. She could start somewhere else, she was sure there would be other kitchens that might give her a chance but the idea of starting over seemed distant and she had a feeling that Martin would not give her a good recommendation...

Frida Varela Index ~ Next 6.2

#The Sims #The Sims 4 #ts4 #Sims #Sims 4 #sims legacy #my sims #generation 1 #soot #sims of our time #frida varela #pascal alcocer #marjorie whipple #irene tasis #martin lucena

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igglemouse · 3 months ago

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"When are you heading back to the gym?" she asks with a teasing grin this time, knowing exactly why I've been missing. As usual, I can't help but rub my belly, it almost feels instinctual if anyone even thinks about my baby.

"Some time," I say back. I'm really in no rush for it either. "Why? How is it with ummm, the crush?"

"My crush?" She asks as if she forgets our last conversation at the gym.

"Yes? C-crush? At the gym?" As usual my simlish is not that great so I try to keep things short and simple but her confused look makes me think I've said something wrong. I hope I'm using the word 'crush' right.

"Ah! Yes, that guy..." she nods but I can tell the spark she had for this gym trainer must have fled and I soon know why. "Turns out he's a little rough. I mean, in a demanding kind of way? You know how some of those types are, always pushing, always expecting more and more," she waves it off as if she has move don, maybe she has. "Once you get that thing out of there you'll have to head back, you'll be carrying baby weight, you know?"

"Oh!" I hadn't really thought of that. Pregnancy takes such a toll on you physically for sure but mentally as well, I forgot that the weight I put on will not magically disappear once my little girl is introduced to the world. "Y-yes, yes, this is right," well, I guess it will be something to do post-pregnancy? I'll worry about that when the time comes, right now, I'm more focused on just giving her a healthy environment to grow in...

Frida Varela Index

#The Sims #The Sims 4 #ts4 #Sims #Sims 4 #sims legacy #my sims #generation 1 #soot #sims of our time #frida varela #marjorie whipple

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igglemouse · 3 months ago

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The day starts with an important conversation, one we've been meaning to have for a while now, about the baby. Today, I'm heading to the hospital so that I can get things checked out, a routine visit to make sure everything is going okay. It should be an ordinary check up but I can't help but feel nervous.

Pascal has been unusually quiet all morning. Sometimes he's just like that, maybe he's focused on his next game or something but I do think it has something to do with the baby and my thoughts are confirmed when he finally does speak up. "Will you find out if its a boy or a girl," he asks, genuinely curious.

"Should I?" I reply, wanting his opinion, needing to let him know that it is valuable when talking about our child.

Pascal messes with the food on his plate, yes, pancakes again, and seems to think about it. "Yeah, yeah, I would like to know. I've been curious about it for the past few days. It would be cool to have a Pascal Jr."

That brings a small smile to my lips because it is nice to know that he's been thinking about it. Sometimes he feels so stoic and detached that I've worried that he's indifferent towards it but perhaps that is just how he is.

Sara calls me, her voice bubbling with excitement the moment I pick up. Yep, she's talking about her new guy and sure enough she's telling me that they are officially a thing, boyfriend and girlfriend.

I'm happy for her, especially since she's thought she'd just be single for the rest of her life. Whoever this new guy is I hope he treats her right!

She really wants to talk more about him, gush about him really, but I can't, I do have that doctor visit to go to after all.

And so, I head to the hospital, one step closer to becoming a mom. After a brief wait I'm led to my room and meet the doctor. She seems cordial and warm but also very much down to business. Messing with her machine as she asks routine questions. You know, do you drink, any drugs, are you allergic to anything, stuff like that.

Once that is out of the way and the machine is on she asks me to lay down and relax. Once I do she brings out the...ummm, I'm not sure what any of these things are called, but its placed on my bump, the gel feels a little cold but other than that I don't feel anything.

"Everything looks good Ms. Varela," she says after looking at the screen for a few moments. "And it looks like you are having a girl! Congratulations!"

"O-oh!" I'm not really sure how to react! Honestly, girl, boy, whatever, I just hope they are healthy! Ten fingers, ten toes, you know?

"Just remember, taking care of yourself is taking care of your baby!"

I make it home with a new kind of energy buzzing inside of me because knowing I'll be having a daughter just helps it put it all into focus. I'm also starving, of course, but I feel like I'm hungry for at least half of the day these days.

I'm having a daughter! The thought just nestles warmly in my mind, surrounded by possible names and just endless possibilities of all the things we might do together, all the things I can't wait to teach her, and I'm just so ready to hold her and adore her that it's hard to focus on cooking.

I guess I am making sweet bread, something light and well, sweet, because I keep craving sugary and sweet things aaand maybe that has something to do with the baby? Maybe she'll be a sweet spirit? I sure hope so!

The bread turns out wonderful, by the way, golden and perfectly shaped and turns out being the perfect little treat! It's not enough to fill me, I'm sure I'll be looking for something else to eat a little later in the night but I don't regret it at all.

After though I'm a little confused about what to do with the rest of my day. The stand took up a lot of my days and now that its on pause I'm often just sitting around thinking about my pregnancy.

I really don't feel like opening the stand today and can you blame me? The idea of standing outside in likely 100 degree weather while pregnant doesn't sound like a good one. That won't pause my career, no no no, I'm not one for standing still after all. I've been keeping in touch with Ray which yes, feels strange after all we've been trhough but I think I've found a strong ally here, a super valuable associate.

I've been wondering more specifically if it would be a good idea to start my own Simtube channel. He thinks it's a great idea, not just a great one, but he's willing to help. I'm not really sure how I'll navigate through those waters but I'm sure willing to try!

I thought the day would be winding down after that but a knock at my door tells me not quite yet. It's Marjorie and she's standing outside flashing a wide and confident smile. It's kind of odd seeing her over since I do believe she lives in the gym so I can't help but wonder what brings her over today.

"Some time," I say back. I'm really in no rush for it either. "Why? How is it with ummm, the crush?"

"My crush?" She asks as if she forgets our last conversation at the gym.

Frida Varela Index ~ Episode 7.3

#The Sims #The Sims 4 #ts4 #Sims #Sims 4 #sims legacy #my sims #generation 1 #soot #sims of our time #frida varela #marjorie whipple #pascal alcocer

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igglemouse · 3 months ago

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Frida Varela Index

#The Sims #The Sims 4 #ts4 #Sims #Sims 4 #sims legacy #my sims #generation 1 #soot #sims of our time #frida varela #marjorie whipple

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igglemouse · 9 months ago

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A scattering of seeds, a sprinkle of water, and one passing night brings forth new life. Little green bushes sprout from the dirt, promising a revolution and proving the Flower Bunny correct. Spring is in full bloom and flowers aren’t the only thing promising to blossom.

How could I not speak of the kiss between Pascal and I, after all? A tender moment between us yesterday that had my mind lingering with thoughts of him. Was that single moment under a warm spring day the sign of something more enduring?

Or could it be that my relationship with him will wither under the hot summer sun when it comes?

But today is a new day and with it comes new possibilities. With it being Friday I figured I would open the stand a little later, catch people coming home from work and ready to wind down after a busy work week. People that might not be up for cooking themselves who would be willing to part with a few simoleons to have a meal from someone else.

This decision gives me a gift of time for the morning, time well spent with laundry so that I too could prepare for what I hope is a busy and fulfilling weekend.

The weekend starts with a workout!

Pascal’s introduced me to this gym and I mean to become a regular here if for no other reason than he endorses it. He’s a professional athlete after all so if this place is good enough for him then it must be good enough for me.

It does not take long to find the appeal. There’s a calm vibe to the gym, a quiet that is only filled with the clanking of weights, machines, and sharp exhales of effort.

The treadmill’s themselves are meditative, the belt thrumming smoothly under each step I take on my journey to nowhere and everywhere all at once. Before long I begin to lose myself to the session, each step a building block towards someone better, each minute proof of my will.

Yeah. I could definitely get into this.

I wipe the back of my hand against my forehead, moistening it with my sweat, satisfied but not yet content. What’s that old phrase? No pain, no gain! I’m sweating but my legs still feel fresh and tell me that there’s still more to go. I reach down on the treadmill to increase the pace-

“You new here?” a woman asks, her voice smacking aside my focus like a clank of weights. “Just wanted to let you know that this one,” she looks down to the treadmill. “Can be a little quirky.”

“Ummm-”

“Yeeep. It likes to challenge people randomly every now and then or maybe it likes the taste of face,” I look at her confused. Perhaps something was lost in translation here because I have no idea what she means. “It’s broken,” she clarifies. “Just a warning!”

“O-oh! Gracias!”

Since I could not afford an injury at this time I stopped off the treadmill right away and followed her outside. Not the wisest of ideas. The sun seemingly mocked the idea that it was spring at all and instead hinted at what a summer day would feel like here in Oasis.

We stopped on a rightfully empty basketball court because who would want to play anything outside in his heat?

“Sorry, Simlish es no my first language,” I tell her as a precaution because I have a feeling she’s wanting a conversation. “I’m Frida.”

“Frida…cute accent! Marjorie but you can call me Marge,” she says with a welcoming smile. “How long have you been here?”

“Not a week,” I reply with a breathy chuckle.

“And already here at the gym? I like your style,” she says with a nod of her head and a wipe of her brow as well. The heat was definitely going to have us seeking shelter.

“You’ll find me here most days,” she continues, tossing her head back towards the gym. “Don’t forget about that treadmill either, better safe than sorry, right? See you later Frida.”

Perhaps I’ve met a new friend.

I get home and sink into a tub of water that has been bombed with a freshly sweet lavender scent. I think I’ve used too much because there are so many bubbles that they foam over the edge of the tub but what does that matter? It’s Friday and I plan on squeezing as much enjoyment from it as possible.

It’s not like I even get weekends off. I run a business by myself. Sola. That means my schedule is filled with work which also means I need to savor every moment of peace I can find.

But just because my schedule is filled with work doesn’t mean it’s actual ‘work’ if you catch my meaning. Cooking, as I’ve said before, brings me joy. Maybe I am easily pleased but buying a new pizza oven and making my own pizza, standard cheese pizza, the classic, completely makes my day!

I think pizza will be a very important part of my stand, it’s affordable and munchable and I can charge per slice! Perfect! Let’s just hope it’s actually good!

I step outside ready to begin my daily sale but am met immediately by a stranger. My neighbor, he claims tobe at least. “Just wanted to say hello and officially welcome you!” His voice is filled with the zeal of an overly enthusiastic neighbor. “I’ve been keeping my eye on you-”

“Oh?” caution leaks from my one word reply. The last thing I want is some neighbor keeping watch over me after all.

“O-oh! No, not like that!” he catches my caution and realizes how his introduction must seem to me. “I’m just down the road and across the street. It’s just a phrase I guess.” He then introduces himself as Oscar Fuentes.

“Hola Oscar! Cómo es-”

“No no no no, sorry, I don’t speak Selvadoradian,” he cuts me off quickly bringing a smirk to my lips. I kind of guessed he might because of his name but it’s actually better that he doesn’t because…

“Sorry, no speak Simlish!” I tell him and basically shoo him along. I have a feeling this is the nosy neighbor type and if that is true then the less interaction with him the better.

“Oh! No, it is I that is sorry! I just wanted to say your food stand adds a real punch to the neighborhood! I wanted to thank you personally and…” his words drift as I give him my best confused look to really drive the point home. “Ah, I see, well, hopefully another time. See you around?”

“Yes, yes, bye.”

Oscar takes the hint and leaves me to setting up my stand. I must admit that doing it much later in the afternoon just initially has a better feel to it and that is because of the weather.

One thing about hot climates is that there is always a perfect time of day, the sweet spot, and right now I was settled in the middle of it. Maybe that’s why my voice had a bit more pop and energy to it and maybe that’s why I pull in 166 simoleons.

It’s not a huge sum to be sure but it is a pattern, a hint of some consistency, proof that maybe I am catching on and maybe there is a future here for me after all…

A guard blocks the exit to the room with a posture that said he would be ready to defend order with all that he had. Which, in this case, was a simple can of pepper spray. Here at ADX Desierto it was all a guard could have because the risk of a prisoner wrestling away a baton, knife, or gun, was far too much. While a prisoner couldn’t plot an escape with either he could send a man just doing his job to an early grave and anyone who called his place home had little to lose. Some even welcomed the execution that might come from such an option.

Thankfully, this particular guard was here more as a formality. The prisoner who shared the room with him had been one of those tamed with time and religion, a man who only wanted to find redemption through the watcher and through his daughter.

A daughter he called once a week to absolutely no reply. The guard had hoped this week would be different, that she would pick up her phone and offer the man a pinch of hope, but as Anthony slammed the phone down against the receiver he knew that she was still avoiding him. Perhaps even had him blocked…

The guard was ready to escort Anthony back to his cell because usually the man, the killer, he reminded himself, would only try to call his daughter and that was it but today he held up his hand for a moment and started to dial another number.

For a moment the guard thought to warn him that all calls were recorded. Some prisoners, men whose ego were larger than the desert they were housed in, would try to conduct business behind bars and that would only add to their punishment or their time (as if a man with over 100 years left on his sentence cared much about added time). The guard thought to warn Anthony but then reminded himself again that this was a killer. Despite the calm and now tame demeanor all it took was one look into his eyes to know that this was a man who could shoot him dead in the head and think nothing of it.

So he remained in his spot, guarding the door, and instead eaves dropped on his conversation which was mostly pushed through quick and hushed phrases…

“Just make sure she’s okay….she never picks up…just check on her….got it?”

Was all he could make out. Eventually, his 15 minutes were up.

And eventually the guard is back into the heart of the facility, the corridor with steel bars on either side of him, so full and packed that a prisoners can talk to each other (and often do) and even reach across the hall to pass things around.

The guard’s steps are silent, the quiet approach taken more for necessity than fear as this time of night had given way to rest which meant even the more unpredictable prisoners had opted for sleep. Even still, just walking these halls had made him nervous. Sometimes, the best that can happen is prisoners throwing things at you, sometimes even feces, and even still that is better than the story of an officer being pulled to the cage and getting choked out and nearly dying.

Thankfully for him Anthony’s cell was not far and even better, no one messed with Anthony and so it felt more like Anthony was escorting himself to his cell and not the other way around.

The guard’s farewell is soft and filled with a hint of sympathy that would flee with the click and lock of his cell. Leaving Anthony alone in a place he had learned to call home and even appreciate.

He was told when he made his pledge to the cartel that there were only two ways out, in a casket or behind bars, he thought the former was always the only real option. He’d go out in a blaze of glory before submitting to order and begging mercy from the law…and yet, he’s glad to still be alive.

His past is one of death, a thread of lives all worthy of being ended and yet lives all the same. The faces of his victims blurs at best, the names never placed into his memory and the emotions attached to them completely non-existent. He was given a target and a bag of simoleons when the job was done. No questions asked.

It brought him simoleons, that’s all that mattered then, and it allowed him to live a life he could have only dreamed of. A life he would have happily snuffed out himself if it meant being here locked in a maximum security prison for the rest of his life with no chance of escape.

But this was a debt he learned he had to pay and his confinement had left him with his thoughts, his own thoughts, not those tainted by powder or drugs, but thoughts of a father who had once seen the promise of a life he had turned down.

He would survive, he would serve the rest of his hundred year sentence because it is what she asked of him. It is what he owed her. He never planned to father her, he barely knew her mother after all. His concept of family were the men who paid him and never anything more than that. He fought for them, he killed for them, but the cold concrete and steel of this building had taught him that family isn’t who you fight for, its who you live for.

He knew there was no redemption here, that the Watcher would be insane to ever forgive the list of sins he’s committed, his soul had been judged and condemned.

But there was still time for Frida…

Episode List - Next

#The Sims #The Sims 4 #ts4 #Sims #Sims 4 #sims legacy #my sims #generation 1 #soot #sims of our time #frida varela #marjorie whipple #oscar fuentes #pascal alcocer #anthony varela

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