@jsonbecker I totally understand where you're coming from. (And YES to The Starless Sea & Rowland's books!) One of the reasons I write about books the way I do is to share who I am and what I like, without feeling committed to analysis. My reviews are fundamentally personal responses, with sections called "What I loved," "What I wanted more of," and "What I need to warn you about."
@jsonbecker The best book club I ever attended was one where everyone brought a book they loved to talk about and recommend. I hate picking books apart in a group setting.
@jsonbecker I can relate to this! I've never been in a book club either (for fiction, anyway) but I feel like it could be awkward if the members' tastes or opinions are too far apart, and if their opinions are too much the same it might not be very edifying… but having friends who can recommend you awesome new books to try (and you to them) is great.