Book Club

**[BUY THIS MONTH's BOOK HERE](https://backstorybookshop.shop/product/on-writing/)** A pop-up book club series exploring the creative process through some of the most beloved books on writing. Across three sessions, we’ll discuss craft, inspiration, discipline, and the realities of the writing life — open to writers at any stage as well as curious readers interested in how stories are made. ## **Series Schedule & Upcoming Titles** 📚 **April 14 — *On Writing* by Stephen King** A candid blend of memoir and masterclass on storytelling, discipline, and the writer’s craft. 📚 **May 26 — *A Swim in a Pond in the Rain* by George Saunders** A deep and generous exploration of storytelling through classic Russian short fiction. 📚 **July 7 — *The Writing Life* by Annie Dillard** A luminous meditation on creativity, solitude, and the realities of artistic devotion. ## **About the Host** **Olivia** is a writer based in Barcelona, where she has lived for the past seven years. Originally from the United States, she studied creative writing as an undergraduate and later completed a master’s degree in translation at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. A jack of all writerly trades, she has published poetry and nonfiction and is currently navigating the querying process for her first novel. **Instructions** 1. Swing by the shop to pick up a copy of your book 2. Read it 3. Come discuss it Easy peasy! Happy reading!

Studying rook endgames for beginners and above

Hola y bienvenidos a nuestro próximo meetup de filosofía de Sócrates Café! ¿Deseas una comprensión más profunda de ti mismo y del mundo? ¿Valoras el diálogo profundo, honesto y respetuoso? Si es así, entonces este encuentro será muy interesante para ti. 1. ¿DONDE NOS ENCONTRAMOS? Charcha Café [Carrer d'Avinyó, 24, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona](https://www.google.com/maps/place//data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x12a4a3004ce10d7d:0xbc126fd29e6e5d2d?sa=X&ved=1t:8290&ictx=111) https://www.google.com/maps/place//data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x12a4a3004ce10d7d:0xbc126fd29e6e5d2d?sa=X&ved=1t:8290&ictx=111 2. ¿CUANDO NOS ENCONTRAMOS? los martes de 19:30 a 21:00 3. ¿CUÁNTOS NOS REUNIMOS? Hasta 25 personas. Las reuniones comenzarán a las 7.30 pm. Por favor, les pedimos que pidan algo para beber antes de comenzar y que lleguen puntualmente. **Empezaremos puntualmente.** 4. ¿QUE PASA EN LAS REUNIONES? En cada reunión tenemos una discusión usando el método socrático: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socratic_method Hacemos, respondemos y discutimos preguntas e ideas para estimular el pensamiento crítico y ampliar nuestras perspectivas con algunos conceptos y pensamientos en los que nunca hemos pensado. El objetivo principal de estos encuentros es enriquecernos con las perspectivas de los demás, no convencer a los demás sobre nuestras propias perspectivas. Nuestras reuniones son sobre nuestras propias filosofías de la vida y no necesariamente lo que los grandes filósofos y académicos han dicho o escrito. No es un club de debate o una plataforma para hacer proselitismo. En cambio, ponemos énfasis en cuestionar, tener una mentalidad abierta y desafiar nuestras propias suposiciones mientras escuchamos y respetamos las opiniones compartidas por otros. Una reunión de Socrates Café se considera un éxito cuando los participantes dejan una discusión con muchas más preguntas de las que tenían al principio. 5. ¿QUÉ TEMA SE DISCUTE EN EL MEETUP? Los participantes sugieren temas al principio de cada reunión. Luego votamos y elegimos el tema más popular de ese evento para la discusión. No es necesaria la formación académica en filosofía; Solo entusiasmo por intercambiar ideas y puntos de vista. Algunos ejemplos de temas elegidos en reuniones anteriores: * ¿Por qué ideales vale la pena morir? * ¿Por qué nunca estamos satisfechos? * ¿Por qué los seres humanos están informados de que la sociedad está yendo mal y los líderes están bien informados y las cosas continúan? * ¿Es necesaria la identidad? * ¿Qué es el precio ético y la codicia? * ¿Qué es post-verdad? * ¿Cómo puede ser que las personas en las sociedades democráticas estén tan obsesionadas con el poder? (Deseo de ser diferente, mejor, más fuerte que los demás). * ¿Qué es la amistad? 6. ¿QUIÉN PUEDE PARTICIPAR EN ESTE MEETUP? Cualquiera es más que bienvenido a unirse a nuestros encuentros. Nuestros eventos reúnen a personas de diferentes orígenes, diferentes culturas, mientras que no es obligatorio tener antecedentes filosóficos. Nuestros participantes habituales son personas que tienen deseo de una comprensión más profunda de sí mismos y del mundo. Personas que valoran el diálogo profundo, honesto y respetuoso.

📚 English-Speaking Book Club – Vilanova Hello everyone! This book club is for anyone who likes reading and would like to add a social element to their hobby, discover books outside their usual choices, and read roughly one book per month. Our plan is to meet once a month at IZZI Café-Bar in Vilanova i la Geltrú to discuss our chosen book and select a title for the following month. Everyone is welcome and we hope our group will include people from many different countries. You can read the book in English or in your native language, but the discussion will be in English. It’s free to attend. Come on your own or bring a friend. You’re welcome to join at any time, even if you haven’t read the current book, and don’t worry if you haven’t finished it before the meeting (as long as you don’t mind spoilers!). Our first book will be A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman. A warm, funny and moving story about a grumpy widower whose life begins to change when new neighbours move in next door. 📅 First meetup: Tuesday 14 April 🕖 19:00–20:30 📍 IZZI Café-Bar, Carrer de la Unió 51, Vilanova i la Geltrú If you’d like to join the WhatsApp group, please message me here. Hope you can join us!

Hola y bienvenidos a nuestro próximo meetup de filosofía de Sócrates Café! ¿Deseas una comprensión más profunda de ti mismo y del mundo? ¿Valoras el diálogo profundo, honesto y respetuoso? Si es así, entonces este encuentro será muy interesante para ti. 1. ¿DONDE NOS ENCONTRAMOS? Cafè de l'Òpera La Rambla, 74 near metro Liceu. https://goo.gl/maps/rgmRhs4WMD3ciASk7 Suban al cuarto arriba, hay que pedir y pagar en la barra antes de subir. 2. ¿CUANDO NOS ENCONTRAMOS? los martes de 19:30 a 21:00 (las otras sessions están en ingles). 3. ¿CUÁNTOS NOS REUNIMOS? Hasta 25 personas. Las reuniones comenzarán a las 7.30 pm. Por favor, lleguen a tiempo. Empezaremos puntualmente. 4. ¿QUE PASA EN LAS REUNIONES? En cada reunión tenemos una discusión usando el método socrático: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socratic_method Hacemos, respondemos y discutimos preguntas e ideas para estimular el pensamiento crítico y ampliar nuestras perspectivas con algunos conceptos y pensamientos en los que nunca hemos pensado. El objetivo principal de estos encuentros es enriquecernos con las perspectivas de los demás, no convencer a los demás sobre nuestras propias perspectivas. Nuestras reuniones son sobre nuestras propias filosofías de la vida y no necesariamente lo que los grandes filósofos y académicos han dicho o escrito. No es un club de debate o una plataforma para hacer proselitismo. En cambio, ponemos énfasis en cuestionar, tener una mentalidad abierta y desafiar nuestras propias suposiciones mientras escuchamos y respetamos las opiniones compartidas por otros. Una reunión de Socrates Café se considera un éxito cuando los participantes dejan una discusión con muchas más preguntas de las que tenían al principio. 5. ¿QUÉ TEMA SE DISCUTE EN EL MEETUP? Los participantes sugieren temas al principio de cada reunión. Luego votamos y elegimos el tema más popular de ese evento para la discusión. No es necesaria la formación académica en filosofía; Solo entusiasmo por intercambiar ideas y puntos de vista. Algunos ejemplos de temas elegidos en reuniones anteriores: * ¿Por qué ideales vale la pena morir? * ¿Por qué nunca estamos satisfechos? * ¿Por qué los seres humanos están informados de que la sociedad está yendo mal y los líderes están bien informados y las cosas continúan? * ¿Es necesaria la identidad? * ¿Qué es el precio ético y la codicia? * ¿Qué es post-verdad? * ¿Cómo puede ser que las personas en las sociedades democráticas estén tan obsesionadas con el poder? (Deseo de ser diferente, mejor, más fuerte que los demás). * ¿Qué es la amistad? 6. ¿QUIÉN PUEDE PARTICIPAR EN ESTE MEETUP? Cualquiera es más que bienvenido a unirse a nuestros encuentros. Nuestros eventos reúnen a personas de diferentes orígenes, diferentes culturas, mientras que no es obligatorio tener antecedentes filosóficos. Nuestros participantes habituales son personas que tienen deseo de una comprensión más profunda de sí mismos y del mundo. Personas que valoran el diálogo profundo, honesto y respetuoso.

Barcelona has been missing out on game-based squash events, but not anymore! We're excited to introduce a new way to play and connect with others. **Join us for fun, competitive matches every Saturday from 11:30 to 13:30 and every Tuesday from 20:00 to 22:00. 2 hours, no coaching, just pure gameplay. Rackets and balls are always included.** All skill levels are welcome! Booking is required through our website: [Squash Barcelona Club](https://b809333.alteg.io/). Pricing: * DIR Rocafort members: €19 * Non-members: €25 Come and be part of the excitement! *** Barcelona se ha estado perdiendo los eventos de squash basados en juegos, ¡pero ya no! Estamos encantados de presentar una nueva forma de jugar y conectar con los demás. **Únete a nosotros para partidos divertidos y competitivos todos los sábados de 11:30 a 13:30 y todos los martes de 20:00 a 22:00. 2 horas, sin entrenamiento, solo juego puro.** Todos los niveles son bienvenidos. Es necesario reservar a través de nuestra página web: [Squash Barcelona Club](https://b809333.alteg.io/). Precios: Socios Club DIR Rocafort: 19 No socios: 25

The climate emergency will not be solved by reading books. But by coming together to read, to educate ourselves, to share what we learn with friends and family, and to take action in our corner of the world we can be a small part of the wave of change humanity desperately needs. Sound like something you want to be a part of? We’d love to have you. Join the Climate Action Book Club this month to read the 'The Nutmeg's Curse: Parables for a Planet in Crisis' by Amitav Ghosh, the Bengali Indian novelist and writer who has several books on climate change. This event is free, but please get your copy from the wonderful English bookstore that hosts our book club meetings, Backstory. You can also [buy a copy from them online](https://backstorybookshop.shop/product/the-nutmegs-curse/). To cover Meetup fees, we also request a €1 donation per attendee. You are welcome (even encouraged) to join us even if you haven't read the book but want to hear and join the discussion about it. Feel free to bring a friend, too. Hope to see you!

[Follow us on Instagram! ](https://www.instagram.com/bcnchatnchapters?igsh=aXkycTJsdTNzaHN3) 📷 [Join our WhatsApp group!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/HGcQUlOiwM69tuPm6hBwNt) 📞 Are you guilty of collecting books without finishing them? Struggling to carve out time to delve into that novel you started ages ago? Distractions abound or work piling up? Well, here's a beautiful opportunity: Dive into a unique experience with our Reading Party concept, as featured in the **NY Times**. Picture this: an hour of silent reading followed by lively discussions about the books we've brought along. It's not your typical book club—it's a chance to dust off those neglected novels and party with fellow bookworms! Join Barcelona Reading Party every **two Sundays** at **CRAI UPF** in **CIUTADELLA**. Sunday's is perfect for those who would like to relax before the new work week! Leave your phone on silent and immerse yourself in the joy of reading. Here's the plan: 📕 ***5:00 PM - Arrival*** Arrive early, chat with fellow book lovers, and perhaps snag the best reading spot. 👓 ***5:10 PM - 6:10 PM - Reading Time*** Quietly dive into your book of choice. Feel free to join in whenever you arrive. 📚 ***6:10 PM - 7:10 PM - Book Chats*** Engage in lively conversations about your current reads with other attendees. It's like speed dating, but for bookworms! **Don't forget to bring your book!** *It's a chance to connect with fellow book lovers, swap literary treasures, and engage in thought-provoking discussions in a cozy setting. All are welcome, whether you're a seasoned reader or just starting your literary journey. Get ready for an evening filled with books, tea, and stimulating conversations.*

Need some inspiration and/or dedicated writing time for your current WIP? Grab your laptop or notebook and join us at Simply show up at Camelia Art Cafe. Feel free to jump into working on your own writing project immediately, or wait until the quiet time starting at 5:30. at 5 pm for a bit of writer chat, before diving into an hour and a half of focused writing time. At 7, we head to a nearby bar to discuss how it all went.

Calling all Barcelona-based writers! It's about time we come together again, meet others of our kind, and discuss our business-y matters: what we write, how we write it, and how we get about our creative lives. All of it while sipping on great wine! This informal "industry" meetup is for anyone who self-identifies as a writer – or is *almost ready* to do so :) If you write books (of any kind), poetry, screenplays, film scripts – or something else entirely – you're more than welcome to join us! Feel free to bring a writing friend or two – the more the merrier. And your book(s), of course! Let's **celebrate** each other's works! **We are meeting at a friendly wine shop 🍷** **The organizational fee for this meetup is €5 (in cash), which includes a glass of great wine (or a non-alcoholic refreshment). It's time to get festive!** *The main language of this meetup is English.* **🧑🏼‍💻 About the organizer**: Hi! I'm Marusha Mozolevskaya, a non-fiction writer, journalist and journaling guide based in Barcelona. I'm also a founder of the [Girls Who Write](https://girlswhowrite.club/) & [Barcelona Journaling Festival](www.barcelonajournalingfestival.com). Happy to meet other writers and have a good chat about our creative process!

La Asociación Barcelona Escribe presenta ***Tras el Mosaico del Beso***, un volumen recopilatorio de los mejores textos escritos en nuestros talleres en el curso 2025/2026. ***Tras el mosaico del Beso***, es una obra muy especial donde **18 autores han puesto su corazón en cada página**. Promete sorprenderte, emocionarte y, quizá, hacer que te quedes un ratito más disfrutando de la magia de Sant Jordi. ¡Te esperamos con libros, sueños, y algo para brindar!

This month's pick: The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science by Kate McKinnon Backstory’s **Story Squad!** is our book club for young readers — a space to discover incredible stories, share ideas, and nurture a lifelong love of reading. Led by a mom-and-daughter duo, each session is about celebrating books together in a fun and welcoming way. **Instructions** 1. Swing by the shop to pick up a copy of your book 2. Read it 3. Come discuss it Easy peasy! Happy reading!

💓 **Online Speed Dating Built for First Timers – Real Connections, Zero Pressure!** **🔴 MUST READ: RSVP Alone Won't Get You In!** To attend, you must: (1) Click your age group link below, (2) Complete registration, and (3) Finish the personality quiz. Limited spots available – register now before they're gone! **📋 Choose Your Age Range Below to Register:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=network-for-active-local-singles-dating&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=network-for-active-local-singles-dating&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=network-for-active-local-singles-dating&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=network-for-active-local-singles-dating&ar=55+&face_v=1.0) --- 🤝 Tired of swiping with no results? Try real conversations instead! Online speed dating removes all the awkward parts of traditional dating. A friendly host guides you through each round, so all you have to do is show up and be yourself. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations - First-time speed daters seeking a welcoming, easy experience - First-timers who want to date without the pressure of face-to-face meetings - Busy professionals who value their time and comfort **How It Works** 1. **Sign Up** – Click the registration link for your age bracket above. 2. **Finish the Short Personality Assessment** – This helps us optimise your matches for the evening. 3. **Connect on Zoom** – No setup needed. Just click the link and you're in! 4. **Meet Your Matches** – Rotate through fun one-on-one rounds with Toledo singles who share your vibe. 5. **Discover Your Matches** – We'll notify you of any mutual interest after the event. The rest is up to you! **Event Details** - **Format:** Hosted live on Zoom – guided, fun, and stress-free - **Location:** No venue needed – just a comfy seat and a good internet connection - **Host:** Your personal guide through the evening – friendly, encouraging, and fun - **Vibe:** Light-hearted, easy-going speed dates with open-minded Toledo singles - **Accessibility:** Join from any device – laptop, tablet, or phone - **Duration:** About 60–90 minutes of structured, fun conversations **Frequently Asked Questions** **How long are the conversations?** Each round is a few minutes – long enough to feel a connection, short enough to keep things exciting! **What happens after the event?** We reveal mutual matches after the event. If you both liked each other, we help you connect! --- ✨ The hardest part is clicking register. After that, we make everything easy. See you there! 💘 ✨

**💖 Speed Dating on Zoom – Personality Matched for Columbus Locals** For this online speed dating version, the host and the people in the room matter as much as the agenda. The experience is designed to feel guided, welcoming, and social. Ditch the apps. Meet Columbus singles face-to-face on Zoom tonight. Quick, hosted rounds on Zoom with Columbus singles paired to your age group and personality. No awkward pauses — just natural conversation. **Register under your age group:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Columbus&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0) **⚠️ Heads up — RSVPing here isn't enough.** Register through your age group link below and complete the quiz. Capacity is limited. --- 🎯 **Especially useful for:** - Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting - ⚡ Columbus locals after personality-matched dates - People fed up with swiping who want actual conversation 📌 **What to know** - **Format:** Zoom video session – short timed rounds - **Location:** From home – all you need is Wi-Fi and a webcam - **Host:** Live host handling rounds and introductions 🔄 **What to expect** 1. **Pick your age group** – Register through your link above. 2. **Take the personality quiz** – We use it to pair you with compatible Columbus singles. 3. **Hop on Zoom** – Join the call and your host will walk you through it. 4. **Meet your matches** – Cycle through short chats with compatible Columbus singles. 💡 **Tip:** Check your Zoom setup and pick a quiet, well-lit spot ahead of time. ⭐ *"10/10. The host was fantastic and I actually had fun on the dates."* – Columbus first-timer --- ✨ Register, take the quiz, and connect with Columbus locals tonight. ✨ ✨ Short-form version for faster scanning. Everything important, without the extra padding. 🤝 **Community angle** - The atmosphere is guided, social, and easy to join - The community matters as much as the session itself - Repeat attendees help create familiarity and momentum The long-term goal is a room people want to come back to, not a one-off event people forget about.

**💝 Cleveland Zoom Speed Dating – Personality & Age Matched** This online speed dating event is built around a host who sets the tone, keeps things easy, and helps people feel comfortable from the first minute. Meet Cleveland singles from home. We sort the matching, you just turn up. It's simple: complete a short personality quiz, jump on Zoom, and meet Cleveland singles in guided one-on-one rounds. Matches shared afterwards. **Pick your age group and sign up:** - 💡 **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0) **⚠️ RSVP alone won't secure your spot.** You need to register through your age group link below and complete the personality quiz. Places are limited. --- 🎯 **Especially useful for:** - Singles who prefer a hosted, structured experience - Singles in Cleveland who want to meet people from home - 🔥 Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting 📌 **What to know** - 🔥 **Format:** Virtual on Zoom – hosted and well-structured - **Location:** Your space – couch, desk, wherever suits you - 🎯 **Host:** Experienced host steering the session 🔄 **What to expect** 1. **Register** – Select your age group above and sign up. 2. **Take the personality quiz** – We use it to pair you with compatible Cleveland singles. 3. **Hop on Zoom** – Join the call and your host will walk you through it. 4. **Speed date** – One-on-one rounds with personality-matched Cleveland locals. **Frequently Asked Questions** **What if I'm shy?** The virtual setting and hosted rounds keep things comfortable for everyone. **What's the personality quiz for?** **How long are the chats?** --- ✨ Real people, real conversations — all from your home. 🥰 ✨ Lean version: fewer words, same core offer. Everything important, without the extra padding. 🤝 **Community angle** - Repeat attendees help create familiarity and momentum - The structure is designed to help people settle in quickly - The atmosphere is guided, social, and easy to join That community angle is deliberate: better conversations, more familiar faces, and stronger momentum over time.

💓 **Online Speed Dating Built for First Timers – Real Connections, Zero Pressure!** **🔴 MUST READ: RSVP Alone Won't Get You In!** To attend, you must: (1) Click your age group link below, (2) Complete registration, and (3) Finish the personality quiz. Limited spots available – register now before they're gone! **📋 Choose Your Age Range Below to Register:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=55+&face_v=2.0) --- 🤝 Tired of swiping with no results? Try real conversations instead! Online speed dating removes all the awkward parts of traditional dating. A friendly host guides you through each round, so all you have to do is show up and be yourself. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations - First-time speed daters seeking a welcoming, easy experience - First-timers who want to date without the pressure of face-to-face meetings - Busy professionals who value their time and comfort **How It Works** 1. **Sign Up** – Click the registration link for your age bracket above. 2. **Finish the Short Personality Assessment** – This helps us optimise your matches for the evening. 3. **Connect on Zoom** – No setup needed. Just click the link and you're in! 4. **Meet Your Matches** – Rotate through fun one-on-one rounds with Indianapolis singles who share your vibe. 5. **Discover Your Matches** – We'll notify you of any mutual interest after the event. The rest is up to you! **Event Details** - **Format:** Hosted live on Zoom – guided, fun, and stress-free - **Location:** No venue needed – just a comfy seat and a good internet connection - **Host:** Your personal guide through the evening – friendly, encouraging, and fun - **Vibe:** Light-hearted, easy-going speed dates with open-minded Indianapolis singles - **Accessibility:** Join from any device – laptop, tablet, or phone - **Duration:** About 60–90 minutes of structured, fun conversations **Frequently Asked Questions** **How long are the conversations?** Each round is a few minutes – long enough to feel a connection, short enough to keep things exciting! **What happens after the event?** We reveal mutual matches after the event. If you both liked each other, we help you connect! --- ✨ The hardest part is clicking register. After that, we make everything easy. See you there! 💘 ✨

**Our April novel is: *The Hong Kong Widow* by Kristen Loesch** **This month’s novel blends gothic atmosphere with historical fiction and chilling horror, set against the haunting backdrop of China. The book is 368 pages in print and 10 hours and 42 minutes on audiobook.** In 1950s Hong Kong, Mei is a young refugee of the Chinese Communist revolution struggling to put her past in Shanghai behind her. When she receives a shocking invitation—to take part in a competition in one of the city's most notorious haunted houses, pitting six spirit mediums against one another in a series of six séances over six nights, until a single winner emerges—she has every reason to refuse. Except that the hostess, a former Shanghainese silent film star, is none other than the wife of the man who once destroyed Mei’s entire life. It is promised the winner will receive a fortune, but there is only one prize Mei wants: revenge. Decades later, the final night of that competition has become an infamous urban legend: The police were called to the scene of a brutal massacre but found no evidence, dismissing it as a collective hallucination. Mei knows what she saw, but now someone else is convinced they know what she did. She must uncover the truth about the last night she ever spent in that house—even if the ghosts of her past are waiting for her there. . . .

Welcome, readers! Our April read is **_Martyr!_ by Kaveh Akbar.** The story follows a young Iranian American poet grappling with grief, addiction, and the aching question of what makes a life meaningful. Drawn into an unexpected friendship with a terminally ill artist, he begins to confront faith, love, and the seduction of self-destruction. Lyrical, darkly funny, and emotionally piercing, the novel wrestles with beauty and despair in equal measure. It’s a story about longing—to be seen, to be forgiven, and to matter. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

Welcome, readers! Our May read is **_Kindred_ by Octavia E. Butler.** The story follows Dana, a Black woman living in 1976 California, who is suddenly pulled back to a Maryland plantation before the Civil War. She learns her survival is tied to a white slaveholder’s son. Forced to move between centuries, she must endure the brutal realities of slavery while fighting to hold on to her identity. Tense, intimate, and unforgettable, Kindred explores how the past refuses to stay buried. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖