A classic but woefully under-read marriage plot, a brilliant book about basketball and prophecy, and a slim but powerful witch trial novel
Deep Dives
Explore related topics with these Wikipedia articles, rewritten for enjoyable reading:
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Frances Burney
12 min read
The article discusses Burney's 1778 novel Evelina as a precursor to Jane Austen, but readers may not know about Burney's fascinating life as a novelist, diarist, and member of the court of King George III
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Cassandra (metaphor)
13 min read
The book Medium Rare features a narrator named Cassandra with the power to foretell the future, directly referencing the Greek mythological figure whose prophecies were never believed - understanding this myth enriches the novel's themes of prediction and power
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Witch trials in Denmark
15 min read
The Wax Child is set in 17th-century Denmark and involves a noblewoman accused of witchcraft - historical context about Danish witch trials would deepen understanding of the novel's themes of female power and persecution
I’m not sure how I let my four-year-old’s social calendar gradually take over my life, but it’s happened. This weekend included dance lessons, ice skating lessons, and three birthday parties. It’s insanity. I know we could cut back, but also getting out of the house consistently feels better than being home all day, so I’m simultaneously grateful for and overwhelmed by these busy winter weekends.
My reviews today are truncated because of said preschool party schedule, but the summary for each is go read these books! This has been one of the most delightful and satisfying reading weeks of my year.
In case you missed it.
I shared my favorite debut novels of the year. Typically Friday posts are for paid subscribers, but this week’s was unlocked by a sponsorship from Book of the Month.
I announced an ongoing project for 2026 and am thrilled by all the enthusiasm around it!
This week in books.
This week I read…
Evelina by Frances Burney. Burney’s 1778 novel of a young, beautiful, and naive young woman’s first foray into London society is fantastic. The combination of social satire, farcical romp, and marriage plot make Evelina genuinely funny and delightful. This is a joyful and smart classic with pointed mockery of London society baked into a truly plotty plot with unforgettable set piece scenes and Bridgerton-style narrative twists. I had the pleasure of talking about this book with for Books that Matter and we’ll have much more to share in that January episode, so go read this now! As both a clear precursor to Jane Austen and a piece of art in its ...
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