The Comfort Book Club / The Blue Castle by L M Montgomery

[@MirandaMills]

Happy Sunday, everyone! As I updated here in the KZbin community and on my Instagram earlier in the week, May's Comfort Book Club video was delayed until today due to me being unwell at the start of the week (I'm fine now, and thanks for your good wishes). I wasn't quite myself when I recorded this, as I forgot to mention the September CBC book choice (see the video description box for what that is). Also, I'm really pleased to say that I DID manage to complete the Summer Commonplace Book guide. You will have already received if you're a newsletter subscriber. If not, download the free guide (and signup to my newsletter) here: www.mirandajanemills.com/summercommonplacebook Miranda x

[@debbiew7496]

I so agree with Donna that “The Blue Castle” is a painful book at the beginning. I wasn’t sure I wanted to continue reading it, but am glad I stuck around for the rest. Being a gardener, I loved the moment Valency cut the rose back severely. It is called a “rejuvenation prune” and gives new life and fresh growth. Not only did it rejuvenate the rose, it was a metaphor for what happened to her life when she cut out the deadwood of her family and a situation that could not sustain her life force. Thank you for a new and wonderful read from a favourite author.

[@MirandaMills]

I’m so happy you enjoyed it, Debbie! I loved the pruning of the rose bush (and, of course, all the blooms that ensued!) as well - such a great metaphor for Valancy’s own life as you say ❤️📚🌹

[@skyy3123]

I agree that the author does a great job of communicating Valancy’s pain at the beginning of the novel. For me, it was even hard to read at some parts. Thank you for the conversation!

[@MJ-in-Canada]

Confession: Until you suggested “The Blue Castle,” I’d never read an L.M. Montgomery book. Not even “Anne of Green Gables!” I fear if this deep, dark secret is revealed, my Canadian citizenship will be revoked. Thank you for finally leading me into the light. 😀

[@MirandaMills]

You're not the only Canadian to confess to this so don't worry 😂

[@theesilverghost]

@MJ in Canada - I am right there with you in the confession re: never having read "Anne of Green Gables" either! This was my first L.M. Montgomery read, and I'm tempted to try the Emily series.

[@naomihickman5098]

Such a wonderful discussion of one of my very favourite books. I love the book’s inspiring message to make the most of life, as well as the beautiful nature writing. It really is a fairy tale read and watching Valancy blossom is so satisfying and fun. I love you mentioned enjoying the details about her her new clothes as I love these parts too! One of my favourite scenes is when she returns home and her rose bush she hacked at is blooming splendidly. It is also such a funny book! I also now feel like continuing with L M Montgomery and think I’ll reread some over this summer.

[@monee8623]

Thanks for continuing this book club. Has meant a lot to me over the last few months!

[@MirandaMills]

It means a lot to me to hear that the book club has brought you some comfort in your reading life. Thank you so much for your very generous and kind support. It means a great deal to me. I hope you will enjoy the next two reads. Mum and I are looking forward to the August and September discussions already ❤️📚💐

[@virginiacastillejo9594]

My husband and I returned yesterday from a trip to beautiful PEI celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary, where we stayed at “Kindred Spirits” in Cavendish, which backs up to the Green Gables Heritage site. It was our third 24-hour drive from NC, USA, to this spot in 10 years. The first trip was my husband’s surprise 10 years ago, as he knew of my love for author Montgomery. I had read The Blue Castle several years ago with a local book club and was delighted with this selection, as it coincided with our Canadian adventure. Thanks, Miranda and Donna!

[@MirandaMills]

How wonderful! I would love to see PEI sometime. Happy Anniversary 🎉 🥂

[@julianowskachapter]

Thank you for this wonderful discussion, Miranda and Donna. So peaceful, so enjoyable. It almost seems you are out of this contemporary world we live in, a trait for which I am truly grateful indeed 🌺

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much for your very kind words and lovely support! I so appreciate both & am glad you enjoyed the discussion ❤️

[@sarahculley4646]

I loved this book. I read it a couple of months ago for the first time. Oh my....what a lovely book. I wish I could read it for the first time again ❤

[@stacey__withanE]

As a Canadian, it was lovely to revisit this story with you. I especially loved the descriptions of a wilder Muskoka. It has become such a favourite summer destination for so many Ontarians for its many lakes, cottages, flora and fauna. Looking forward to heading to the beautiful Yorkshire Dales with All Creatures Great and Small next, and continuing catching up on the other selections I've missed during the summer break.

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment and very kind support, Stacey! I'm very grateful! I've never been to Muskoka, but would like to see it, especially after reading this book. Looking forward to All Creatures very much as well! xxx

[@nancyfritz1827]

I read "The Blue Castle" last year after you had spoken about it in one of your vlogs and found it beautifully written and the story both enchanting and inspirational. It is one of those novels that speaks to my heart and reinforces my belief in the importance of having dreams, having the courage to follow those dreams and also being present to the beauty of everyday life. I decided not to reread it until after this bookclub as I wanted to approach the book with all of the members insights and thoughts fresh in my mind. Thank you all in advance for enriching my reading experience!!💕

[@sally-t5s]

Thank you for another exquisite commonplace guide. I'm afraid I'm yet to read The Blue Castle, indeed, any LM Montgomery. I have a feeling this is going to be another one of those 'How on Earth have I got to 46 without discovering such an enchanting writer?!' But, as I'm sure many of your followers will empathise with, I have had quite a few of those instances since I started following you... Lovely to see you both, Miranda and Donna xxx

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much, Sally, for the very kind words and your very generous support! It means so much to me that you’re enjoying the commonplace guide and that the videos are giving you fresh inspiration for your reading! Wishing you a lovely reading week! ❤️📚💐 xxx

[@jelenaananjewa5677]

Thank you for the book club. And thanks to all the readers, who contributed with an audio. It was very interessting. Vou and your mother look radiant!

[@karenwhite2601]

I wonderful and fascinating discussion on one of my favourite L M Montgomery titles. One of many scenes that I enjoyed was the dinner party where Valancy speaks her mind to her horrid relatives. What a joyless existence their lives are - though they don't realise it, it's just the way they are. I have read all that Montgomery wrote many times over but that never takes away from my enjoyment of reading them. To those who said it was their first L M MOntgomery read, do read all the Anne and Emily titles as well as the other titles. 'Rainbow Valley' and 'Rilla of Ingleside' are very special indeed.

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Karen! That is indeed a wonderful scene, and yes so much richness in the Anne and Emily books too! ❤️📚

[@mrsstrople]

Hello from Muskoka, Ontario, Canada! I've been to her small museum in Bala. This book must surprise fans of Anne for its, dare I say, raunchiness. I read this book in one evening and just loved it. Thank you for sharing this work. It is a shame that there are no theatrical adaptations!

[@MirandaMills]

So glad you loved it! I didn’t know there was a museum in Bala - how interesting! Xxx

[@ingaurban404]

Dear Miranda and Donna! Thank you so much for the discussion. I truly loved the Blue Castle and had never read it before. It was a lovely read. I have already ordered the Emily-Trilogy and am looking forward to reading those. Also, I am very happy about the James Herriot choice and will definitely join in! Have a wonderful week you two!❤

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Inga! I’m so happy you loved the book too and are inspired to read the Emily trilogy! Have a lovely start to the week Delighted you’re looking forward to the August choice too 📚❤️

[@teresaparkins1255]

Thank you Miranda and Donna and all those who sent messages for a wonderful discussion of this month's book. I had a senior moment when rec I discovered I had read the book about ten years ago but have absolutely no recollection of reading it and cannot locate my original copy. It did mean I read it with fresh eyes and enjoyed the magical, funny and beautifully described natural world and the transformations that occur. Happy summer reading, Teresa

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much for your very kind support, Teresa! Ha, I've had that happen to me before! I'm glad you could enjoy the book as though it were new to you anyway. Hope you've got lots of lovely summer reading ahead too! Miranda xxx

[@staciewaddell486]

What a delight to watch you and your Mother share your thoughts on this book. Also I appreciate all the callers’ thoughtful insights too. I’m getting this book right away! And you should know, Miranda, that my entire Christmas book haul was curated by you! I gave my husband a list of 15 books I wanted -all inspired by you - and asked him to pick 5 for me for Christmas. Good man… he chose 8!

[@joysedgwick812]

Thank you once again for this CBC choice. I particularly loved the idea of having a Blue Castle into which to retreat, even lovelier of course when it came true! I have only ever read Anne of Green Gables but have the whole series on my Kindle, I must have known I would read them all one day. I hope you have a chance to relax this summer and I look forward to the next discussion, I am old enough to have read that book when it first came out and I have re-read it over the years……now I need to find a copy again.

[@MirandaMills]

So true, Joy! I loved how Valancy's 'Blue Castle' came true, even if rather different from her fantasy version! xxx

[@maryflaherty7096]

So enjoyable listening to all on here. Love to see all these books in back of you. Lovely bouquet! Cups too..

[@christinalinklater7742]

Thank you for a wonderful conversation. Have a fun summer!

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you very much for your lovely support, Christina! It’s much appreciated, and I’m so glad you enjoyed the discussion 😊💕

[@anisopteras]

Thanks! Loved The Blue Castle!

[@MirandaMills]

So glad you enjoyed it, Margaret! Thank you so much for your wonderful support! I really appreciate it ♥️

[@terrestrialparadisephotography]

I’ll never forget the first time I read this book. It remains my favorite of this wonderful, prolific author. The themes are so adult in nature and it’s conflicts and resolutions are so very satisfying and so very applicable to modern life 💙🏰

[@MirandaMills]

It is such a lovely read! 📚❤️

[@MyMidnight1111]

Hello Miranda and Donna. I LOVED this book. Have never read any of L. M. Montgomery's books but after reading this wonderful book I've ordered the first 5 Anne of Green Gables books used from a used bookseller. Thank you for our wonderful book club.

[@inlaterdays]

Thank you both so much for choosing this book! This is my first time commenting on a Comfort Book Club video, so I hope I'm doing it right. I loved this. I adore the Anne series, but had never read The Blue Castle. I so enjoyed watching Valancy come into her own, and like others, thought that the descriptions of nature were marvelous. I'm also sorry you've been ill, and I'm so glad you are feeling better. I look forward to reading All Creatures Great and Small over the summer. ❤

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks for adding your thoughts! So glad you enjoyed the book. I loved seeing Valancy coming into her own too 😊❤️

[@glendaslanina9939]

Hello Miranda and Donna. Thank you for choosing The Blue Castle for our read. I loved this book on so many levels, I actually read it twice this month. The nature writing is fantastic and the slow romance was lovely. I am also thrilled by the James Herriot selection. I was just thinking a couple of days ago that this would be a perfect summer project to reread the Herriot books. I am such a fan and I have all his books on my shelves. Thank you again and also for your Summer Commonplace download. I know that the time and effort you put into your “gifts” to us is extensive and so greatly appreciated. 🌸

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for your lovely comment, Glenda! I’m so glad you enjoyed The Blue Castle so much 😊💕

[@pamelafreeman4548]

She is one of my favorite authors. I really enjoyed reading this again. So enjoy your chats here! Love hearing other readers comments too.

[@shelliclarke5563]

You both look beautiful. Donna looks so pretty in that print. Thank you for a wonderful discussion 😊

[@AidaBoza]

Thank you Miranda and Donna. Have a wonderful summer🌺

[@antigony8178]

Hi Miranda, sorry to hear you weren't feeling well and hope you've now made a full recovery. Please can I ask where you bought those gorgeous strawberry tea mugs from? Thanks for your help. Enjoy the sunshine!

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you for your well wishes and support! The mugs are from Skye McAlpine's shop 🍓 ❤️

[@antigony8178]

@@MirandaMills that's great! Thanks

[@crystalsypolt6321]

Hello Miranda and Donna. I read The Blue Castle many years ago and absolutely loved it. Thank you for choosing it for the comfort book club. It has inspired me to re-read it. I am going to purchase a copy soon because I passed my copy on to my neighbor and dear friend who is an avid reader and loved it too. I wish you both a wonderful and well summer and will be looking forward to hearing from you again soon. You both inspire to live a calm life looking for and finding beauty in ordinary things of each day.

[@Penny-ws4mz]

Glad you are feeling better, Miranda. And I'm also so glad The Blue Castle was the CBC choice for May as I've been meaning to read it since I first heard about it a couple of years ago. It is, as Donna and you and CBC members say, uplifting. One of the things I find particularly uplifting is that it is Valancy herself who finds the courage to change her life. The flowers on your table are absolutely beautiful. They have an air of dreamy blue castle. To me it is just the kind of bouquet Valancy and Barney would have in their home 💐

[@MirandaMills]

Yes, exactly, Penny: I too find it so uplifting a read, and I also love how Valancy makes her own transformation through much determination and positive action. That’s such a lovely way to describe the flowers 💐 ❤️📚

[@bettedubois9925]

Thanks and happy birthday to Donna!

[@MirandaMills]

That’s so kind, Bette! Thank you so much for your generous support! It means a lot 💐💕📚

[@WinnieLiakos-ks2pr]

Hello MIranda and Donna. I so enjoy all your vlogs and look forward to seeing you each week. I have read some of your book club books but haven't participated yet! Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to your wonderful KZbin videos. It's a highlight of my week. Winnie Liakos

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much, Winnie! So glad you enjoy the videos. Have a lovely start to the week! xxx

[@maryfagan6982]

Thanks

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you very much for your kind support, Mary! ❤️

[@theesilverghost]

Hello, Miranda and Donna. This was such a wonderful read! May was a rough month for me and my family, and "The Blue Castle" was the beautiful comfort read that I desperately needed. Thank you!

[@MirandaMills]

I’m so sorry May was a rough month for you, Gina! Hope June is much better ❤️

[@missjenny1953]

I have just finished All Creatures Great and Small this evening. What a delightful read. So many memories from the 70s of the first tv series. Thank you for reminding me of these wonderful times!

[@marciareed6078]

Serendipity! I adored Blue Castle on so many levels: seemingly-hapless Valancy; the wonderful nature descriptions; and the important “life” themes. What a gem, one that I wasn’t aware of, although I’ve read Anne…I am going to reread Blue Castle, after the Book Club discussion and, also, read some of Montgomery’s other books. Thank you for the Book Club and your discussion, Miranda and Donna! The Comfort Book Club is comforting and inspiring, indeed!🌸

[@MirandaMills]

So enjoyed reading your thoughts, Marcia, thank you! Glad you loved the Blue Castle, and if you haven't read the Emily books, then I so recommend them! xxx

[@WaterBearReads]

Thank you Miranda for all your hard work, and to Donna as well for being so supportive and lovely! Looking forward to your August discussion!

[@MirandaMills]

That’s so kind, Heather! Thank you so much for your contribution to our discussion and your very generous support! I so much appreciate your kindness and am really pleased you’re looking forward to August’s book too ❤️📚💐 xxx

[@faithwentworth7906]

Thank you for a wonderful discussion of a wonderful book! Glad you are feeling better. It's terrible to be sick when the weather is nice.

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for your contribution to our discussion and your lovely support, Faith! So kind of you and much appreciated ❤️

[@cherylwilson8519]

Hello from Muskoka Ont. My mom and I have both loved this book. I have read all 5 volumes of L.M. Montgomery’s journals, they are so eye opening. She talks about how much she loved being in Muskoka, Ontario and Bala visiting it with friends. Always enjoy your book club with your mom. ❤

[@flippinpages6550]

I am inspired to create an Anne of Green Gables doll dress. I make doll clothes to give away every year along with a doll to some little girl who may need a doll. The dolls are the same size as AG dolls but I get them from a Target store. I talked to our library about having an Anne of Green Gables Day and giving the doll away along with the book???it's still in the works. I hope to convince them this can be fun for the library. Thanks for the great book recommendations. Look forward to seeing you soon.

[@radiantchristina]

The Blue Castle is such a wonderful book. I did not read any L M Montgomery until a few years ago (and i'm in my 50s). I have since read all of her novels. The Blue Castle is my favorite of hers. I enjoyed your discussion as always.

[@patriciatolliver4057]

Patty-I have read all of the Anne of Green Gables books as well as the Emily books. I had a hard time with the beginning of this book because I saw so much of myself in Valancy. Much like her, I broke away from what my family expected of me and felt such great exhilaration when I did. I was cheering for her all the way. One thing I really liked was when Cissy told Valancy that everyone has a Blue Castle. I know I surely did. I haven't finished it yet. I will let you know what I thought about the whole book when I do. I'm looking forward to the August discussion.

[@gracetaylor7351]

I love this video and the blue castle it’s wanting me to reread the book . I have different edition of it . But it makes me want to read other one of hers as well .love watching your comfort book club talks thanks Miranda and Donna .❤

[@D.D.AnnLewis-ce2jt]

This book makes such an impact on me. I love how Valancy transforms her life!

[@paulettehelmke6985]

I couldn't wait to finish The Blue Castle (a little late as I have been taking care of my Mum) so that I could listen to the discussion. This was a wonderful choice and I am always happy to read L.M. Montgomery - other favourites are Rilla of Ingleside and Emily of New Moon, and of course Anne). Valancy did inspire me with her courage to live life rather than just exist. The author's description of winter made me glad I live in the Southern Hemisphere and could read about a cosy fire inside while outside was freezing. The petty dialogue of Valancy's family was so well executed and made the characters really come to life with their ridiculous judgements and comments about others. Thanks Miranda and Donna.

[@gillwoolley6515]

A first time read for me,like a lot of people,i've read Anne of green Gables, but never investigated further reading of LMM. I enjoyed very much,thank you Miranda.

[@bettymaugeri7316]

Thank you for todays book discussion - feel better - wishing you and your mom a relaxing couple of months!

[@wendymcgarvie1488]

Thank you for all the wonderful vlogs this month

[@MirandaMills]

That's so kind of you, Wendy! Thank you so much for your wonderful support; I really appreciate it ❤️

[@redandpink219]

The Blue Castle is one of my favourites of Montgomery's. It's always a pleasure to listen in to your lovely discussions. Thank you, and hope you are feeling better Miranda.

[@godsbuckets]

Wonderful discussion! It’s so hard for me to get past the sadness of Valancy’s life At the beginning. This has inspired me to read it again though. It’s been several years.

[@WinnieLiakos-ks2pr]

Thanks!

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much, Winnie, for your amazing support! So generous of you, and I really appreciate it ❤️

[@christysmith1058]

This may just be my favorite book of all time (as hard as it is to choose!) and I've read it numerous times over the years. So I was thrilled that you chose it for the Comfort Book Club and I really enjoyed this discussion.

[@MirandaMills]

It’s a wonderful book! So glad you enjoyed the discussion, Christy! Xxx

[@Emmie4497]

Lovely, lovely discussion Miranda and Donna ☺It is definitely a book about courage and hope. Listening to your views and those of other readers always gives me extra food for thought! Glad you are on the mend, Miranda 🙂

[@MirandaMills]

Thanks so much for your fabulous contribution to the discussion, Emma! xxx

[@fromread2read]

You are appreciated!

[@MirandaMills]

That’s so kind! Thank you so much for your support! I really appreciate it 💕

[@DianeC1975]

Such a great discussion. I read this book for the first time last year. It turned out to be my favorite for 2022. So I was excited to reread it this year. I got such a kick out of when she decided to speak out what she was really thinking. ( The greatest happiness is to sneeze when you want to)😂 And her familys reactions. I loved how kind Valancy was to Roaring Abel and Cissy. I enjoyed her relationship with Barney. That scene when He rescued her from the train made me hold my breath. The ending was so satisfying. Its just a 5 star book period exclamation point. 😉. Thank you both so much for this bookclub. Have a great week. 📚💐🤗❣️❣️

[@MirandaMills]

That’s wonderful, Diane! I’m so glad it’s such a favourite of yours 😊💕

[@ayseataaySquitieri0634]

Again, thanks for a nice visual and hearty book reviews! love to you and your mother. 📚🩵❤️

[@doctormimi9486]

Never heard of it but should -my husband took me to Prince Edward Island just before the pandemic as I always loved her Anne of Green Gables -just finished the Blue Castle after you posted this and am now enjoying this wonderful video !!❤

[@Georgina_LIS]

I would have got through this book more quickly if I hadn't felt the need to keep stopping and making entries into my commonplace book from chapter 30 onwards. The beautiful, poetic descriptions of nature are gorgeous. The more I write in my commonplace book, the more I realise I love such nature writing, as well as witty one-liners - such as Cousin Georgiana thinking that the lack of a spare room is "monstrous"! I was also slightly envious of Valency's bravery at being brutally honest around the family dinner table - it was so uncomfortableto read, yet I was cheering her on. I'd love to know where your lovely strawberry basket mugs are from!

[@jennifermielo-shook3174]

I loved the Anne of Green Gables books which led me to The Blue Castle. Thank you for choosing it for the Comfort Book Club and thanks for the heads up for August. I’ve been loving the most recent television adaptation of All Creatures Great and Small and have been meaning to re-read the book - I appreciate the gentle nudge and look forward to that discussion.❤

[@e.danielle880]

Checking in as another person who read The Blue Castle for the first time! I really enjoyed reading this book and following Valancy's journey. The theme of not letting fear control your life is a real inspiring one. I laughed many times throughout this sweet story. Thank you so much for choosing this book for May!

[@bookprincess612]

Such a wonderful surprise 📚📚📚

[@ingertsvard6731]

Thank u both. Really enjoyed the read and now I want to pick up Anne of Green Gables that I read as a child and that my daughter told me hundreds of time to read again (it is still her comfort read and she is at university!) James Herriot❤ our favorite CD books in the car when the children were younger. It was Harriet or C.S. Lewis “Narnia”. Enjoy your summer and live life to the fullest as Valancy decides to do.

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you Ingert! So glad the August read is a favourite of yours too! Xxx

[@moweaquas]

Loved the book. Having read all the Anne series I was thrilled to learn there’s more Montgomery out there to enjoy. I couldn’t keep my eyes off the amazing flowers, especially that pop of orange. And I enjoyed seeing you wear those exquisite earrings! I hope you know that your vlogs are welcome whenever they come!

[@MirandaMills]

I’m so pleased you enjoyed the discussion and the flowers! I like to think Valancy would have liked the flowers too ☺️ Thank you for your kind words! ❤️

[@sarahevans1713]

Happy Sunday to you both and hope you are feeling better Miranda. I will be joining in with All Creatures Great and Small over the summer and it will be my first comfort book club read 😊

[@MirandaMills]

Great! Glad you’ll be reading along, Sarah! Xxx

[@gillianholter-hovind2367]

I hunted out my James Herriot omnibus edition only to discover that it didn’t include All Creatures Great and Small, but started with If Only They Could Talk! Silly me not to realise that ACG&S is in itself a compendium, not an actual novel, and includes It Shouldn’t Happen to a Vet 😉Looking forwards to reading it over the summertime😊 Thank you for a lovely discussion of The Blue Castle and for the Summer Commonplace companion. Have a lovely summer everyone in the CBC!

[@jasonlow8029]

Thank you, Miranda (and Donna), for the wonderful discussion, and I am looking forward to reading the books by the two James! Have a wonderful week ahead. All best wishes, Jason 💟

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you so much for your contribution, Jason! So glad you’re looking forward to the August and September choices for the Comfort Book Club! 😄📚❤️

[@DianeC1975]

Thank you.❣️

[@MirandaMills]

That’s so kind of you, Diane! Thank you so much for your generous support; I really appreciate it 😊💕

[@carlacanalsgalan1572]

As always, such a joy listening to your bookclub! I just ordered the full Anne collection after your recommendations ❤️ I only have watched the series and I love them so much!

[@bookprincess612]

As always I enjoyed Jason's comment very much. Lovely, Lovely read and Video.

[@maries3000]

Hello Miranda, this was a great discussion of The Blue Castle. The Muskoka region of Ontario, where this book is set, is so beautiful and L M Montgomery described it perfectly. I could picture Valency paddling across the lake to her cottage and her feelings of being close to nature and at peace with the world.

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you for your lovely contribution to our discussion, Marie! I would love to see that part of Canada sometime! Xxx

[@anitaalfred2880]

What a lovely book club discussion! I've been doing a James Herriot book marathon, so I'm definitely looking forward to the next discussion!!

[@dorislong9420]

My favorite books growing up were the "Anne of Green Gables" series and Nancy Drew. I must get this one and read it. 🌺🌺

[@WinnieLiakos-ks2pr]

oops.....and one more thing....please don't give up baking for us! I love when you and your mum get behind that KitchenAid!

[@MirandaMills]

The tea read videos were lockdown only so we stopped those two years ago (and were honestly relieved to do so!), but I still bake plenty in my vlogs 😊 xxx

[@fromread2read]

Beautiful read! I was motivated towards being more grateful for my circumstances when I read Valancy's feelings of freedom, choice, relief and control she felt from the "little things" in her life after leaving the Sterling clan. Boy what we can take for granted. This book is right up there with Father (E. von Arnim) for me. Another great choice Miranda🙂🌻

[@MirandaMills]

That’s wonderful! I’m so glad you enjoyed Ths Blue Castle so much; it’s a real favourite of mine too 😊💕

[@sandyokey1019]

I’m glad you’re feeling better, Miranda. Hello to you and Donna, and I join with the other members who read this for the first time. I loved this book!💕 my next comment may be considered as blasphemy by some but I liked the blue castle better than the Anne books. How lovely to hear from Marie on PEI too. Doss made me think of a horse’s name and it bothered me that she was called by that name. I agree with Donna that her real name is sort of a fairy tale name. It’s so pretty. And Moonlight befits her so much better. You and Donna look so spring like and I also love your strawberry mugs. I enjoy these videos so much. I hope you both have a lovely week ahead.💕 and thank you also for the Summer Commonplace guide.

[@MirandaMills]

Thank you Sandy! Thrilled you enjoyed The Blue Castle so much 😊💕

[@acwilson4714]

Hi Miranda. I'd read the 'Anne' books by Montgomery, but wasn't aware of The Blue Castle. It was an inspiring book to me as well. I laughed out loud at some of comments Valancy made to her relatives at the dinner table after making the decision to live without fear. I think Montgomery wasn't given as much appreciation as she deserved for her work that didn't feature Anne. Thanks for the fun recommendation.

[@clairethackraytarot]

All Creatures Great and Small yay 🎉❤

[@RoseannePetersen]

Thank you for this recommendation! Montgomery is a favorite of mine and I can't wait to read this one.

[@nicolahunt8145]

Just thank you 🙏🏼 ❤

[@shanne6625]

Loved this book! My first to read by this author. Thank you for a lovely discussion.

[@laurac56]

First time reading. I loved it!

[@suebraid2480]

Hello from a Canadian (Hamilton, Ontario) who has read and own every single book that L.M. Montgomery every wrote. The Blue Castle is one of my favourites. If you liked this book you must read "Jane of Lantern Hill"...it is wonderful. I also want to recommend that everyone read her 5 Volume journals that Stuart (her youngest son) donated to the University of Guelph (where I earned my BA.) They are fascinating! Thank you once again for your amazing vlogs. Sue xxoo

[@asan1050]

Miranda and Donna..ThanksMuch! 📜

[@mrsstrople]

Oh, I exclaimed when I saw August's read! I just read this last year and listened to the audiobook for some of it to. What a wonderful book it was ❤

[@MirandaMills]

That’s lovely to hear it’s a favourite, Jess! ❤️📚

[@award112]

This was my first time reading this book and I absolutely loved it! It was so beautiful and deep and well written. Thank you for the suggestion!

[@gardenplots283]

I was on the hold list for a digital copy from my library since you announced the selection. I finally got the book yesterday. I'd better read it and return it fast because the whole time I was on hold I was the only one and then as soon as I downloaded the book it said 2 others were waiting. Maybe so they could read it for the book club?

[@rosen5401]

I loved reading The blue castle …It really was a charming story. Thanks for the recommendation.

[@onceuponatimeinvt]

My favorite LMMontgomery book and my 2nd favorite book.

[@jennieweston6767]

I have enjoyed this discussion of The Blue Castle as it is a great favourite of mine. I am the proud owner of an original copy of Pat of Silverbush by LM Montgomery autographed and sent personally to my aunt in 1945. It is a treasured possession.

[@MirandaMills]

Wow! That’s wonderful what a treasure indeed!📚❤️

[@sophiew6786]

I loved The Blue Castle, thank you for choosing it. It was my first L M Montgomery but it won’t be my last 😊. Vallancy is one of those special characters that will stay with me.

[@MirandaMills]

So happy you loved it, Sophie! 📚❤️

[@mskleftwich]

I thought maybe “Doss” was like “docile.” Thank you for the wonderful recommendation!

[@colorswordsandlearning]

Loved that book when I read it ...

[@StephanieJarman]

Pat of Silver Bush is a nice series but there are a few other stand alone books that are super duper beautiful and fun! I really recommend "Jane of Lantern Hill" and "Magic for Marigold" !

[@MirandaMills]

I read those when I was young and would enjoy a reread ❤️📚

[@WaterBearReads]

I'm sold then! I'll try Jane of Lantern Hill next I think...although Magic for Marigold sounds very interesting too!

[@MirandaMills]

I really enjoy Jane! ❤️📚

[@kellymurphy6445]

This is one of my favorite books ever.

[@Amelia-vn5yb]

Love this book!! 💗

[@quietlife7186]

❤❤❤

[@deegavin]

I agree that the name “Dot” seemed to be a point of contention for this character. However, my Aunt Dot loved being called Dot rather than her given name, Dorothy. She was Dot from childhood until her death in her eighties.

[@MirandaMills]

Valancy’s nickname was ‘Doss.’

[@FloridaDumpling]

Wasn’t a “doss house” a low rent hotel in 19th c. London during the era of Jack the Ripper?