As part of the Seattle Arts & Lectures series, Patti Smith spoke about her newest memoir, Bread of Angels. I’ve admired her for years: her poetry, her vision, and her unwavering intention to speak her truth through verse and music. Most of all, I admire her courage.

There was something profoundly comforting about her presence: unguarded, funny, deeply human. She spoke of memory and loss like a quiet benediction for the creative life. As the event ended, I felt that spark of gratitude that comes when someone’s words reach into the center of your being and whisper, “Keep going.”

 

Why do tears fill my eyes when I experience profound gratitude?

This month brought a moment I’ll never forget: the launch of The Thirty-Fifth Page at Angel Arms Works Studio. It was a tender, luminous evening, surrounded by friends, readers, and fellow artists. Standing in that beautiful space, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for everyone who showed up, for those who’ve supported my writing journey, and for the chance to see this story find its readers at last. A book is never truly finished until it’s read, and the early responses and kind reviews have filled my heart with joy.

5.0 out of 5 stars possibly my favorite book!

“As I read this book I found myself with tears in my eyes and hope in my racing heart as Miri and Goran discuss the possibility of basically erasing evil – and it’s not hypothetical!

The Thirty-Fifth Page by Lya Badgley is a literary fiction captured by a whirlwind of cinematic experience through the eyes of a young woman named Miri. Part historical fiction, part thriller, and with a dash of romance, the author weaves deep history and modern history with the present day in a narrative that spans centuries.

I don’t know how to talk about the plot without spoiling it! I learned from this book – some about history, and some about life. I also felt at times that I’d fallen into a dreamscape, the world was so immersive. The magical realism was managed so deftly that it truly felt real. There’s a certain tree (you’ll know it when you read it) and I honestly had the feeling that I could go and find that tree’s remains if I tried!

Everything about this book is visceral, evoking all of the senses and producing complex emotion. This is a contender for my favorite book of the year!
It’s a modern day fairy-tale – a warning disguised as a memory tucked into a storybook.
I loved it so much I will be reading it again soon! I also think I will be incorporating it into my high school homeschool language arts curriculum!”

I’m looking forward to several upcoming gatherings this month! More chances to meet readers, share stories, and celebrate books.

 

Author’s Life

Writing as Refuge

After the beautiful chaos of my book launch settles, I’ll return to the refuge of the page. I imagine the soft clicking of the keyboard as the tap of a small pick unearthing a hidden artifact, while my imagination begins to uncover the next story waiting beneath the surface.

Thank you for reading.