After a long stretch of real life getting in the way of reading and podcasting, things are finally getting back to normal around here.
In the latest Weekly Update, I talk about what I’ve been reading, what I’m planning to read next, and some exciting new projects coming to the Page Chewing community.
The Return of Weekly Updates
It’s been months since the last weekly update, but I’m making a conscious effort to get back into a regular rhythm of reading, podcasting, and creating content. Between work, life changes, and a packed schedule, reading took a back seat for a while. Thankfully, that’s starting to change.
If you’ve been following along with any of our read-alongs or discussions, this episode serves as a roadmap for what’s happening next.
Current Reads
Night of Knives
I recently finished Knight of Knives as part of our Malazan publication-order read-along. While it felt like a detour from the main series, I enjoyed getting a different perspective on the world. Like many Malazan readers, I couldn’t help wondering how much of it will matter later in the larger story.
The Bonehunters
We’re currently working our way through The Bonehunters with the Page Burners group. While I’m enjoying the series, I’m still wrestling with the enormous cast and constantly shifting perspectives. The discussions have been invaluable for catching details I might otherwise miss.
Carpentry in the Elven Forest
I’m also returning to Carpentry in the Elven Forest by forum author Alex French. The dry, understated humor continues to be one of my favorite aspects of the book, and I’m looking forward to spending more time with it.
Steppenwolf
Steppenwolf remains on the horizon. It’s a book I want to approach with focus and attention, so I’m waiting until I can fully immerse myself in it again.
The Second Apocalypse Reread Begins
One of the biggest projects currently underway is our spoiler-filled reread of The Second Apocalypse by R. Scott Bakker.
Unlike previous discussions, this series is designed specifically for rereaders. Everything is on the table. Every reveal, every hidden detail, every piece of foreshadowing is fair game.
The first episode covers only the prologue and somehow that led to over an hour of discussion. It’s amazing how much Bakker packs into just a few pages when you know what’s coming later in the series.
If you’re a fan of deep literary analysis and don’t mind spoilers, this is going to be the slog of slogs.
Lone Wolf and Cub Continues
Over on Panel Chewing, Jared and I are continuing our journey through Lone Wolf and Cub.
We’re currently reading one volume per week, making it easy for anyone interested to join in. Since the series is available through Libby and Hoopla, it’s also one of the most accessible read-alongs we’ve done.
New Blog Features and Ebook Deals
I’ve also started updating the blog more regularly.
One new feature is a continuously updated ebook deals post where I’ll be sharing discounted ebooks that catch my attention. The list is updated regularly and serves as a quick way to discover new books without spending a fortune.
If you’re looking for your next read, be sure to check the pinned post on the site.
Thoughts on Interviews
Many listeners have asked whether I’ll be returning to author interviews.
The answer is yes… but selectively.
I’ve done a lot of interviews over the years, and while some have been fantastic conversations, others can become repetitive. Going forward, I’ll be focusing on guests and topics that genuinely excite me and create meaningful discussions for listeners.
What I’ve Been Watching
Reading isn’t the only thing I’ve been catching up on.
Black Summer
If you’re looking for a fast-paced zombie series that wastes no time getting started, Black Summer remains one of my favorite recommendations. It’s intense, chaotic, and refreshingly free of long stretches of characters standing around talking.
From
I’ve also been watching From, and unfortunately my feelings are mixed. The premise is fascinating, but the writing and performances have become increasingly frustrating as the series progresses.
Funny Games
Perhaps the most interesting watch recently has been Funny Games. It’s one of those rare films that I both admire and dislike at the same time. It’s intentionally frustrating, unsettling, and designed to provoke discussion.
Whether you love it or hate it, you’ll probably want to talk about it afterward.
Introducing: The Daily Page
One of the projects I’m most excited about is a new short-form podcast called The Daily Page.
Each weekday morning, I’ll share a quote from a book and spend a few minutes discussing it, not from a literary analysis perspective, but from a life perspective.
The goal is simple:
A few minutes of reflection before your day begins.
Episodes will be short, thoughtful, and designed to give both of us something to think about as we start the day.
Join the Conversation
Whether you’re reading Malazan, revisiting The Second Apocalypse, diving into manga, hunting for ebook deals, or just looking for your next great read, I’d love to hear what you’re working through right now.
What are you reading?
What should I add to my pile next?
Let me know in the comments, on the forum, or wherever you follow Page Chewing.
And as always, thanks for reading—and thanks for listening.
Amazon Affiliate links:
The Darkness That Comes Before
