What do you think?
Rate this book
Missteps Perfecting the Shutterbug Strut
In the Roaring Twenties, sassy photographer Alexandra Bathenbrook sets off from Montana to chase adventure in the world’s most exotic corners. From the jungles of Papua to the highlands of Albania, her camera captures cannibals, killer lions, kings—history itself. High society quirks aside, her intrepid career earns her international fame. Yet, despite the wonderful nonsense of the era, Alexandra comes to learn that life’s most dangerous escapades are not found in the untamed wilderness; they lurk within the demons of her own past and a diabolic prophesied future.
-A most offbeat Historical Adventure with a Supernatural twist
302 pages, Paperback
Published August 6, 2022
About the author
J.L. Michael
1 book21 followersJ.L. Michael is a Maine author partial to old-school jazz, vintage travel posters, and historical literature that champions daring quests into realms unknown. The majority of the author’s time is spent pursuing the honor code of an impossible dreamer, which includes acting as an able Healthcare Director, committed spouse, and steadfast (though imperfect) role-model to an eight-year-old best-thing-ever. When not thrashing away on a keyboard, J.L. can be found lounging beachside atop the hood of a Jeep Wrangler, contemplating a next escape to distant exotic lands or plotting further misadventures to include in the sequel to the just released novel... Missteps Perfecting the Shutterbug Strut.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
October 24, 2022
Alexandra Illyria Bathenbrook is no ordinary girl, no matter in what era you would place her. In the 1920's, she was most definitely close to extraordinary. How I wish Alexandra was a real historical figure! What an enjoyable read this was on a very funny and intriguing character. But no, Alexandra was nothing but a product of the author's overindulgent imagination. Placing Alexandra in actual events, settings and with real historical characters, does make the reader constantly start a Google search to spot Alexandra somewhere in recorded events.
The 1920's was a time of adventure, new discoveries and believing that you can be who or whatever you want to be. Even young women were starting to have that belief. As an aspiring photographer, novice ornithologist and fledgling explorer, Alexandra was well-rehearsed in stirring misadventure.
"Occasionally, the only unpalatable difference between adventure and misadventure is eating exotic foods as opposed to being exotic food."
Being the youngest daughter of Archibald Bathenbrook a well-known geologist for the British Colonial Office, Alexandra is constantly looking for adventures as a refuge from her everyday life.
From escaping to be served as plat du jour to enjoying plat du jour with a few well-known characters from the late 1920's, Alexandra can be described as anything but dull. I loved the author's description of his lead character: "Alexandra was beyond brilliant, yet failed in everything." "Alexandra was physically fit, yet athletically clumsy."
Although she might appear as a bit of a flapper (which she is, not doubt about that), Alexandra does have high dreams and aspirations. She longs to follow in the footsteps of Eliza Scidmore and become a contributing member of the National Geographic Society. People love pictorials with the stories they read, and who better to tell stories than a feisty, beautiful young woman who goes on the craziest adventures. Alexandra does after all plan to travel the world and take photographs of things never seen before. She even plans on terming all her adventures as "adventure photography."
Missteps Perfecting the Shutterbug Strut is a fun-filled adventure from beginning to end. Although it's definitely light reading and should be regarded us such, some readers might find some content offensive or disturbing.
Thank you to Reedsy Discovery for providing us with a copy of this book and for the opportunity to read and review.
The 1920's was a time of adventure, new discoveries and believing that you can be who or whatever you want to be. Even young women were starting to have that belief. As an aspiring photographer, novice ornithologist and fledgling explorer, Alexandra was well-rehearsed in stirring misadventure.
"Occasionally, the only unpalatable difference between adventure and misadventure is eating exotic foods as opposed to being exotic food."
Being the youngest daughter of Archibald Bathenbrook a well-known geologist for the British Colonial Office, Alexandra is constantly looking for adventures as a refuge from her everyday life.
From escaping to be served as plat du jour to enjoying plat du jour with a few well-known characters from the late 1920's, Alexandra can be described as anything but dull. I loved the author's description of his lead character: "Alexandra was beyond brilliant, yet failed in everything." "Alexandra was physically fit, yet athletically clumsy."
Although she might appear as a bit of a flapper (which she is, not doubt about that), Alexandra does have high dreams and aspirations. She longs to follow in the footsteps of Eliza Scidmore and become a contributing member of the National Geographic Society. People love pictorials with the stories they read, and who better to tell stories than a feisty, beautiful young woman who goes on the craziest adventures. Alexandra does after all plan to travel the world and take photographs of things never seen before. She even plans on terming all her adventures as "adventure photography."
Missteps Perfecting the Shutterbug Strut is a fun-filled adventure from beginning to end. Although it's definitely light reading and should be regarded us such, some readers might find some content offensive or disturbing.
Thank you to Reedsy Discovery for providing us with a copy of this book and for the opportunity to read and review.
July 22, 2023
When I first started this book, I felt like it was really slow and I was just pushing myself to finish it. However, the more I read the more I enjoyed it. If you’re looking for a fun read, this is a great option!
November 13, 2023
A light easy read
March 10, 2026
REVIEW OF THE BOOK "MISSTEPS PERFECTING THE SHITTERBUG STRUT" BY J.L MICHEAL.
Missteps Perfecting the Shutterbug Strut by J.L. Michael is a vibrant, albeit polarizing, piece of historical adventure that feels like a cocktail of Forrest Gump and Indiana Jones, served with a 1920s jazz flair. It captures the "Era of Wonderful Nonsense" with a chaotic energy that reflects its protagonist's spirit.
Character Quality: The "Insouciant Vagabond"
The soul of the novel is Alexandra Illyria Bathenbrook, an heiress from Montana who rejects the domestic expectations of the 1920s for the lens of a camera.
Strength of Agency: Alexandra is refreshingly brash. Her desire to earn an interview with National Geographic provides a solid, professional motivation that keeps her from being just another "bored socialite."
The Emotional Core: While her outward persona is one of "jazzy hijinks," her depth comes from her relationship with her war-scarred brother and her internal battle with her "inner demons" in Amazonia.
The Critique: Some readers may find her transformation inconsistent. Because the book covers so much ground (London, St. Moritz, Marrakech, Uganda, Amazonia), her character development occasionally feels secondary to the scenery. We see her do many things, but we don't always get enough time to see her process them.
Plot Quality: A High-Speed Travelogue
The plot is structured as a series of escalating "assignments," ranging from lighthearted mischief to life-threatening survival.
Pacing: The book moves at a breakneck speed. It’s effective in mimicking the frantic pace of the Roaring Twenties. One moment she is flirting with royalty; the next, she is hunting man-eating lions in Uganda.
Historical Integration: The "Forrest Gump" element—where Alexandra crosses paths with real historical figures—is the plot’s most charming feature. It grounds the "wonderful nonsense" in a reality that history buffs will appreciate.
Structural Issue: The narrative can feel episodic. At times, it reads more like a collection of vivid vignettes than a tightly woven novel. The transition from the "easy" hijinks of Europe to the "perilous" survival in the Amazon can feel jarring, as if two different books were merged.
General Review & Personal View
In my view, J.L. Michael has succeeded in creating a "cross-genre" story that acts as a perfect beach read while carrying an unexpected weight regarding the aftermath of the Great War.
The Verdict:
If you enjoy historical fiction that doesn't take itself too seriously but still cares about its world-building, this is a gem. However, if you prefer a focused, singular plotline with deep psychological exploration, the constant globe-trotting might feel exhausting. It is a "maximalist" book—there is a lot of everything: romance, ghosts, killers, and lions.
It’s an "impossible dreamer’s" book. It doesn't aim for gritty realism; it aims for the feeling of a vintage travel poster—bright, adventurous, and slightly larger than life.
Missteps Perfecting the Shutterbug Strut by J.L. Michael is a vibrant, albeit polarizing, piece of historical adventure that feels like a cocktail of Forrest Gump and Indiana Jones, served with a 1920s jazz flair. It captures the "Era of Wonderful Nonsense" with a chaotic energy that reflects its protagonist's spirit.
Character Quality: The "Insouciant Vagabond"
The soul of the novel is Alexandra Illyria Bathenbrook, an heiress from Montana who rejects the domestic expectations of the 1920s for the lens of a camera.
Strength of Agency: Alexandra is refreshingly brash. Her desire to earn an interview with National Geographic provides a solid, professional motivation that keeps her from being just another "bored socialite."
The Emotional Core: While her outward persona is one of "jazzy hijinks," her depth comes from her relationship with her war-scarred brother and her internal battle with her "inner demons" in Amazonia.
The Critique: Some readers may find her transformation inconsistent. Because the book covers so much ground (London, St. Moritz, Marrakech, Uganda, Amazonia), her character development occasionally feels secondary to the scenery. We see her do many things, but we don't always get enough time to see her process them.
Plot Quality: A High-Speed Travelogue
The plot is structured as a series of escalating "assignments," ranging from lighthearted mischief to life-threatening survival.
Pacing: The book moves at a breakneck speed. It’s effective in mimicking the frantic pace of the Roaring Twenties. One moment she is flirting with royalty; the next, she is hunting man-eating lions in Uganda.
Historical Integration: The "Forrest Gump" element—where Alexandra crosses paths with real historical figures—is the plot’s most charming feature. It grounds the "wonderful nonsense" in a reality that history buffs will appreciate.
Structural Issue: The narrative can feel episodic. At times, it reads more like a collection of vivid vignettes than a tightly woven novel. The transition from the "easy" hijinks of Europe to the "perilous" survival in the Amazon can feel jarring, as if two different books were merged.
General Review & Personal View
In my view, J.L. Michael has succeeded in creating a "cross-genre" story that acts as a perfect beach read while carrying an unexpected weight regarding the aftermath of the Great War.
The Verdict:
If you enjoy historical fiction that doesn't take itself too seriously but still cares about its world-building, this is a gem. However, if you prefer a focused, singular plotline with deep psychological exploration, the constant globe-trotting might feel exhausting. It is a "maximalist" book—there is a lot of everything: romance, ghosts, killers, and lions.
It’s an "impossible dreamer’s" book. It doesn't aim for gritty realism; it aims for the feeling of a vintage travel poster—bright, adventurous, and slightly larger than life.
July 4, 2026
Missteps Perfecting the Shutterbug Strut* is a fun, globe-trotting historical adventure that doesn't take itself too seriously. Following Alexandra Bathenbrook on her quest to become a renowned photographer makes for an entertaining journey filled with colorful locations, unusual encounters, and plenty of unexpected twists.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its sense of adventure. Each new destination feels distinct, and the fast-paced, episodic structure keeps the story moving. Alexandra is an easy protagonist to root for—resourceful, determined, and willing to throw herself into situations most people would run from. The historical backdrop adds charm without overwhelming the narrative, making it accessible even for readers who aren't typically drawn to historical fiction.
The humor is quirky, and the novel has an old-fashioned adventure serial feel that reminded me of classic pulp stories mixed with a travelogue. Some plot developments require a bit of suspension of disbelief, and the frequent shifts from one adventure to the next occasionally left me wishing certain moments had more time to breathe. Still, the constant momentum makes it difficult to get bored.
Overall, this is an enjoyable read for anyone looking for a lighthearted historical adventure with an engaging heroine, memorable settings, and plenty of action. It may not strive for strict realism, but it succeeds at delivering an entertaining escape.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its sense of adventure. Each new destination feels distinct, and the fast-paced, episodic structure keeps the story moving. Alexandra is an easy protagonist to root for—resourceful, determined, and willing to throw herself into situations most people would run from. The historical backdrop adds charm without overwhelming the narrative, making it accessible even for readers who aren't typically drawn to historical fiction.
The humor is quirky, and the novel has an old-fashioned adventure serial feel that reminded me of classic pulp stories mixed with a travelogue. Some plot developments require a bit of suspension of disbelief, and the frequent shifts from one adventure to the next occasionally left me wishing certain moments had more time to breathe. Still, the constant momentum makes it difficult to get bored.
Overall, this is an enjoyable read for anyone looking for a lighthearted historical adventure with an engaging heroine, memorable settings, and plenty of action. It may not strive for strict realism, but it succeeds at delivering an entertaining escape.
May 15, 2026
Missteps Perfecting the Shutterbug Strut by J. L. Matthew is an engaging and refreshing read that blends photography, adventure, and a strong woman-centered perspective.
Alexandra is exactly the kind of heroine I love: unapologetic, ambitious, and determined to live life on her own terms. She refuses to be confined by the rules men set for women in the 1920s. With her camera in hand, she travels from the American West to Papua New Guinea, the Amazon, Africa, Europe, and beyond chasing dangerous assignments, photographing everything from headhunters to royalty, and making plenty of missteps along the way.
While the story is packed with romantic entanglements, and Indiana Jones-style escapades, it also quietly explores the lingering trauma of the Great War, female independence, and the courage it takes to carve your own path.
That said, the novel is definitely maximalist. A lot happens and the pacing is fast and episodic, almost like a collection of wild travel memories stitched together. At times, the shifts between glamorous European hijinks and intense survival situations feel abrupt, and I did wish a few emotional moments had more room to breathe.
Overall, it’s fast-paced, a bit chaotic, and really engaging, especially if you like strong, adventurous female leads and historical fiction with personality.
Alexandra is exactly the kind of heroine I love: unapologetic, ambitious, and determined to live life on her own terms. She refuses to be confined by the rules men set for women in the 1920s. With her camera in hand, she travels from the American West to Papua New Guinea, the Amazon, Africa, Europe, and beyond chasing dangerous assignments, photographing everything from headhunters to royalty, and making plenty of missteps along the way.
While the story is packed with romantic entanglements, and Indiana Jones-style escapades, it also quietly explores the lingering trauma of the Great War, female independence, and the courage it takes to carve your own path.
That said, the novel is definitely maximalist. A lot happens and the pacing is fast and episodic, almost like a collection of wild travel memories stitched together. At times, the shifts between glamorous European hijinks and intense survival situations feel abrupt, and I did wish a few emotional moments had more room to breathe.
Overall, it’s fast-paced, a bit chaotic, and really engaging, especially if you like strong, adventurous female leads and historical fiction with personality.
April 18, 2026
Alexandra Illyria Bathenbrook is a uniquely captivating character, perfectly suited to the roaring twenties. The author's vivid imagination brings her to life, seamlessly weaving her into actual historical events and settings alongside real life figures. It's a testament to the writing that I found myself Googling to spot Alexandra in the midst of it all.
As a young woman navigating the thrill of newfound freedom, Alexandra's adventures are both hilarious and endearing. With her passions for photography, ornithology, and exploration, she's a true original. The author's description of her is spot on: "beyond brilliant, yet failed in everything" and "physically fit, yet athletically clumsy."
Alexandra's dreams of following in Eliza Scidmore's footsteps and joining the National Geographic Society are inspiring, and her determination to make "adventure photography" her thing is irresistible. Missteps Perfecting the Shutterbug Strut is a delightful, lighthearted read that's sure to entertain just be aware that some content might be triggering for some readers.
Thank you to the author and Booktasters for this review copy. I really am thankful for this chance to read it.
As a young woman navigating the thrill of newfound freedom, Alexandra's adventures are both hilarious and endearing. With her passions for photography, ornithology, and exploration, she's a true original. The author's description of her is spot on: "beyond brilliant, yet failed in everything" and "physically fit, yet athletically clumsy."
Alexandra's dreams of following in Eliza Scidmore's footsteps and joining the National Geographic Society are inspiring, and her determination to make "adventure photography" her thing is irresistible. Missteps Perfecting the Shutterbug Strut is a delightful, lighthearted read that's sure to entertain just be aware that some content might be triggering for some readers.
Thank you to the author and Booktasters for this review copy. I really am thankful for this chance to read it.
November 16, 2025
I received a free copy of this book through GoodReads.
The premise of this book was enjoyable. A woman photographer goes to different places around the globe during the roaring twenties. I liked the main character - her brashness and how she learned to stay true to herself. The story would have worked better for me if the author had kept it as vignettes (and I had realized earlier that some of the people she came into contact with were real people). However, as the novel continued on the author tried to add facets to the character in attempt to weave the stories together. Unfortunately, it felt like these interesting parts of her character were only briefly mentioned but ultimately not given nearly enough time to give insight into her upbringing or life outside of her photographic adventures.
The premise of this book was enjoyable. A woman photographer goes to different places around the globe during the roaring twenties. I liked the main character - her brashness and how she learned to stay true to herself. The story would have worked better for me if the author had kept it as vignettes (and I had realized earlier that some of the people she came into contact with were real people). However, as the novel continued on the author tried to add facets to the character in attempt to weave the stories together. Unfortunately, it felt like these interesting parts of her character were only briefly mentioned but ultimately not given nearly enough time to give insight into her upbringing or life outside of her photographic adventures.
May 2, 2026
This book was honestly more than I expected. It starts off feeling like just an adventure story, but as you keep reading, you realize there’s a lot going on beneath the surface. Alexandra is bold and unpredictable, but you can tell she’s dealing with deeper personal issues, even if she doesn’t say it out loud. I liked that she wasn’t perfect, it made her feel real. The story can be a bit all over the place at times, but it still keeps you interested. Overall, it’s a mix of adventure and self-discovery, and it leaves you thinking about who she really is and where she’s headed.
June 26, 2026
The story is about Alexandra, a bold young woman chasing her dream of becoming a photographer in the 1920s. Her adventures around the world are fun, exciting, and sometimes dangerous. Readers liked her strong personality and the mix of humor and history. Though the story can feel rushed at times, it is an engaging and enjoyable read, especially for fans of adventurous heroines. Reads might have come across some movies in this genre but reading this book takes you to the best imaginary world. Of course, we can't see it in movies. A lively and fast-paced story.
November 3, 2022
Thanks to Goodreads for an e-book copy of this book.
I have mixed feelings on this. I enjoyed the basic premise of a millionaire heiress galivanting the globe on her photographic adventures, and when she humorously crossed paths with famous people in history I was reminded of Forrest Gump.
But the unexpected forays into Alexandra being possessed and a nymphomaniac didn't add anything to the storyline or humor of the book.
Entertaining, but be forewarned.
I have mixed feelings on this. I enjoyed the basic premise of a millionaire heiress galivanting the globe on her photographic adventures, and when she humorously crossed paths with famous people in history I was reminded of Forrest Gump.
But the unexpected forays into Alexandra being possessed and a nymphomaniac didn't add anything to the storyline or humor of the book.
Entertaining, but be forewarned.
March 3, 2026
Beneath the globe-trotting spectacle lies a much quieter story about self-confrontation. Alexandra’s assignments are less about proving her professional worth and more about untangling grief, insecurity, and the shadow of her brother’s trauma. The real tension isn’t in Uganda or the Amazon it’s in the moments when she must sit alone with her doubts. The novel succeeds because the psychological journey feels as perilous as any physical one.
March 16, 2026
This book follows Alexandra, an ambitious and confident young woman and aspiring photographer, during the Roaring Twenties.
I felt Alexandra had such a vibrant, sassy personality that it was impossible not to enjoy reading about her. I found the author to be a good storyteller, who brought the book to life in my mind as I was reading, making me feel as though I was almost there.
I enjoyed following her journey, with plenty of giggles along the way, and a few perilous moments as well. I didn't think about the title until a little bit later, but I realised it was quite clever.
I felt Alexandra had such a vibrant, sassy personality that it was impossible not to enjoy reading about her. I found the author to be a good storyteller, who brought the book to life in my mind as I was reading, making me feel as though I was almost there.
I enjoyed following her journey, with plenty of giggles along the way, and a few perilous moments as well. I didn't think about the title until a little bit later, but I realised it was quite clever.
October 31, 2025
I feel bad. I won this book in a good reads giveaway. I got about 46% and had to DNF. I am just genuinely not enjoying it. I don’t care for the MMF and I don’t think the banter and humor is funny.
February 25, 2023
This is my first #goodreadsgiveaway that I personally didn’t enjoy to really any degree.
I do not recommend.
I do not recommend.
April 6, 2023
Thos book was ok. I'm giving it 4 stars and I appreciate the opportunity to read. Thamk you.
March 3, 2026
The novel thrives on episodic structure, mirroring photographic snapshots each adventure capturing a moment of growth. The prose is playful yet layered with emotional undertones.
March 3, 2026
Beneath the danger lies flirtation and charm. Alexandra’s romances add warmth to an otherwise perilous journey.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews