Che-Michelle Tales

Every year, a few books are started, but then another more interesting book becomes available, and I put one book down and never finish that book. This year, I have completed more books than naught. Small wins! I still have a few books that I started but need to finish.

Clever Girl Finance- Bola Sokunbi I wanted to get my finances together in 2023. It did not happen, but it does not mean it will not happen in 2024. I plan to start Money Mondays, where I read a book about money and finances at least once a month. The best way to get yourself in order is to read knowledge and devise a plan. I started this book but realized I would like the workbook to go with this book, and I need to decide how I will succeed. Plan out gift-giving and debt repayment. I am too old to be in this situation with my finances. I hope to be in a better financial position by forty-two. I will finish this book by January 10, 2024, at the latest. I suggest everyone who is struggling with money. If you cannot pick one of the thousands of financial YouTubers, go to a financial planner and follow and listen to their content. Dave Ramsay may not be for you, but Anthony O’Neal teaches similar principles. Bola Sokunbi has YouTube and free worksheets on her website, but the right advice is available for everyone.

https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/

Only for the Week- Natasha Bishop This book is good, and I wish she had an audible version. I can only read this book when I am not busy and always on the go or in a situation where I cannot sit and read. So far, I want to finish this book before 2023 ends, and I plan to read it next Saturday. I am currently 15% of the way through the book. What if you were with the wrong person and had a chance to be with the person you desired all along? I cannot wait to finish this book and tell you how much I loved it because the first three chapters are gripping.

The Thursday Murder Club- Richard Osman. I found out this year that I love Murder-Mystery, but I blame Jessica Fletcher from Murder, She Wrote. This book is a hoot, and I enjoy every moment of the book and the characters as they try to figure out unsolved murders. I love that this takes place in a retirement village, and you also see how losing friends and family can force you to create a new family. It is a delightful book, but it drags a bit; I am currently at 34% and hope to finish it in 2024.

Scarlet Odyssey- C.T. Rwizi I fell in love with C.T. Rwizi’s writing from House of Gold! Read that book; it is my top book of 2023! Mystery, intrigue, Afro-Futurisms, a study into human relationships, and connections. This book could be an Oscar-winning movie if the right Director and actors are chosen for this imaginary project. I digress; Scarlet Odyssey is a bit slower moving and demands all your attention. I started reading this book when my grandmother passed away; I will return to it in 2024; it deserves my attention.

The Memory Librarian- Janelle Monae: I enjoy the short stories, but they are longer. They are more like mini novellas. The story is very layered, and you must pay close attention to all the minute details. I did enjoy the first story, but after it, I needed to sit and digest what was occurring and the set-up for the book. I want to finish this book because I love Janelle Monae’s creativity and vision. I will take a week in January to restart and read this book.

The City We Became- N.K. Jemisin, I love N.K. Jemisin, this book is much different than any of her other books. I am invested in Jemisin’s characters, how they will deal with the menace attacking the city, and how each character will meet to come together to save New York City. Why didn’t I finish this book? It is so long! But N.K. Jemisin writes long, long books. I will come back and try this book again.

The Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Human- Kimberly Lemming OH, friend! I am back reading about these monsters falling in love with Black women. This one is a doozy that I do not want to reveal, but if you have read The Demon and the Werewolf, then this one is the perfect conclusion to Boo Hail Cinnamon, Brie, and Cherry. If you catch my drift, I will finish this book next week. It is good, and I love seeing Black women being loved on and desired by men or demons.

Jinn- Jessica Cage: If you do not know, I will interview Ms. Cage in March 2024. I would love to have my blog in a better state and even see if we can get an interview to post on the blog; that would be gold! I am 50% done with this book, which is good; It is a lot of world-building and groundwork for the rest of the series. Why have I yet to finish this book? One reason? Work and the death of my grandmothers. I had a massive project due and have yet to come back to this book, but I want to finish at least five of her books by February 15, 2024. So next year will be double book duty because her books are gripping and the characters intriguing.

I wonder if I did not finish these books because I did not have wine. Well, though it is Dry January, finding the right bottle of wine is necessary to prevent the unfinished book list for 2024.

Until Next Time,

Che Michelle

P.S. Should I make a tee shirt or tote bag for the Unfinished Book Club…