I’ve been reading a great book on plotting by Noah Lukeman: The Plot Thickens. Although it is on plotting, a huge emphasis is on character, because of course, character is the basis of plot. Super-useful!

Mystery 4-/5

Dave Robicheaux, a detective battling alcoholism, has a slip while investigating the case of the death of the man who killed Dave’s wife, and may, in fact, be the killer. This was a good book. I particularly found the setting of the deep south to feel authentic (though I’m no expert—I’ve only visited Louisiana twice) and it delivered strong writing and characterization.

Progress on Book 4 of the series. Loving it, but not putting enough bum-in-chair time. Still doing lots of family support. It’ll take a while.

Non-fiction 5-/5

This book explores the psychology of our interactions with strangers, using many contemporary and historical examples to show how we are, at times, biologically and culturally destined for misunderstanding. I really enjoyed this book and found it fascinatingly informative. I listened to it on audio, and there are audio clips from a number of different sources in addition to the narration of the text.

Taking care of family this week–youngsters’ camping, thank you cards for all the people who generously helped with my daughter’s Celebration of Life, and spending time with family in support (which, of course, works both ways! 🙂 ).