When I left L.A. in early June, I was a little sad I was going to miss out on the city’s World Cup vibe. Then, I arrived in Boston.

And so did the Tartan Army.

It’s really nice to see foreign visitors enjoying the U.S., reminding locals that we are a friendly and generous people, that our country is full of gorgeous scenery, and that we are home to culinary wonders like Texas barbecue, ranch dressing, and unlimited chips and salsa.

An on that note, on to the news! Including a new recurring feature:

Where’s Margaret?

I’ve got convention travel coming up! No official programming announcements yet, but I’m making at least a quick stop at San Diego Comic Con at the end of July. I’ll also be attending World Con 2026 in Anaheim in August. If you’re going to either, let me know and come say hi!

For up-to-the-minute updates, follow @spyscribe on Bluesky, or my ko-fi page.

From My Desk

Remember how in late 2023, I mentioned I was working, but couldn’t talk about what I was working on? Today one of my mystery jobs is a mystery no longer!

I am thrilled to announce I am a writer and Consulting Producer on Batman: Caped Crusader Season 2! All ten episodes drop July 31st on Amazon Prime for your binging convenience. More details to come, but for now, join me in obsessing over this trailer:

If you like Batman, noir, or both, this is the series for you. And if you missed Season 1, now is a perfect time to get caught up.

What I’m Reading and Watching

Book club is at it again. We’re currently reading The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins, a 19th century detective novel. It’s a fun read, although so far actual detectives are rather thin on the ground. My eBook edition is 800 pages long, so this will be a project.

On the film and tv front, we’re only three episodes in, but Season 8 of Game Changer is just killing it. I’ve been staying with friends this month, so haven’t made it out to the theater, but my hosts are threatening not to let me leave before filling the Pee-wee’s Big Adventure-shaped hole in my film education.

From the Cutting Room Floor of the Duolingo Dystopia

Bea has also been on the road this month:

Is it just me, or is Bea usually more type-A than this? Wink and make finger-guns if you need help, Bea!

And That’s the Nearly Monthly News!

Questions? Comments? Travel planning tips? Drop me a line! Otherwise, I’ll see you next month!