What Fiction are you reading this week, January 18, 2026?

[hermetic]

This discussion thread is pinned.

Imagine a world where libraries get more funding than guns.

I've just finished Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar. Defies description; poetic, prophetic, weird. Author really hates trump, though. Calls him President Invective. Appropriate. Next up, The Feast by Margaret Kennedy. A vintage crime classic exploring the mystery of a buried Cornish hotel, from 1950. It was hugely popular and rereleased in 2021 as an ebook.

Listening to A Symphony of Echoes by Jodi Taylor, the second Chronicles of St Mary's book. "Wherever the historians go, chaos is sure to follow.." Enjoyable.

Really busy these days dealing with reality. Less time for fun or enjoyment. Not giving up, though. Hope you don't either.

[cbabe]

1. Taken/Robert Crais

The cartels, immigrants, the desert.

Elvis and Joe. Timely page turner.

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4. Looks like a good one.

[NewLarry]

2. The Last Kingdom

by Bernard Cornwell

A historical (875 AD England) action/adventure story. Well-researched and well-written.

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3. I really enjoy his writing

He has SO many books, like 65! I've read a few.

Welcome to the Fiction group. Always nice to see a new....Larry.

[mentalsolstice]

5. I finished "Untethered" by Angela Jackson-Brown, meh....

The main character was too full of herself. The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead was much better.

On Wednesday I started Sacrament by Susan Straight. I almost gave it up the first chapter in, which I never do, not because it was bad, but the political news that day was so depressing. The next day I decided to give it another go. So glad I did. It’s a beautifully written book about nurses during Covid isolating in campers to protect their families and loved ones while they work.

Have a great week dear readers!

[Bayard]

6. Engrossed in, "Lonesome Dove," by Larry McMurty

Have seen all the series several times, (they never get old,) but had not read the book. Really special on a frigid winter night in front of the wood stove.

Stay warm!

[hermetic]

7. You too, pal

Temps in the Midwest today are scary. I used to live there but now I'm in a high desert where I don't think we're gonna make it much over 32F today. Heavy fog isn't helping.