the windup | issue 11
January 2026 roundup: literary fiction reviews (Kuang, O'Farrell), grief essays, life updates, and news on upcoming book The Constellation of Forgotten Things
Archive
When grief comes to knock on your door again,
My first completed book of 2026: Blood Over Bright Haven, by M.L. Wang
Eh. I think I just expected better from M.L. Wang after The Sword of Kaigen. This one was way
Watched "Wicked: For Good" and cried because, friendship
Happy New Year! My 2025 in Books (top reads each month)
What were your favourite books last year?
My husband and I remarked to each other that our toddler doesn't care for movies about men, or even boring women. So far, she only likes movies about strong women. Good girl.
Ways I Am Simplifying My Life in 2026
From the Notebook Rule to slow reading, here's how I'm choosing intentionality over productivity in 2026—plus why I'm reading fewer books
Hamnet (by Maggie O'Farrell) mini review
The writing is beautiful and I enjoyed it. This isn't the sort of book you read quickly, and
Rainy days reading in the mountains
Forever is a Series of Moments
Perhaps we are all but memory in the end. Those flashes streak across the canvas of our minds, the paint cracking with the passage of time until faded past remembrance.
Books I've Read in 2026
An exhaustive list I update regularly
Got the first blurbs from Ai Jiang and Heidi Wong for my upcoming book, and I’m in tears.
Kickstarter page for more information
Christmas For Those Who Grieve
Christmas is not always a joyous time for everyone, particularly for those of us who are grieving.
I write this letter for you.
Ivy & Ixos by S.E. Reid review
I should have known better than to read this book when I'm already emotional and grieving, but oh,
My goal in life as a writer is to make readers weep with each book.
Erin is me lol
From S.E. Reid's Ivy & Ixos.
the windup | issue 10
Monthly newsletter featuring book reviews, creative writing updates, and reflections on friendship, grief, and creating in life's margins
