My Monday tradition, including a look back and a look ahead — what I read last week, what new books came my way, and what books are keeping me busy right now. Plus a smattering of other stuff too.

Life.

Happy November! Is anyone else freaking out this week and staying awake with anxiety about the election?

Maybe a better question is — is anyone not?

What did I read during the last week?

A Stitch in Time by Kelley Armstrong: Loved it! My review is here.

Of Noble Family (The Glamourist Histories, #5) by Mary Robinette Kowal: I loved this series so much, and can’t believe I’m done! My review is here.

Plain Bad Heroines by Emily M. Danforth: Funny, haunting, creepy, unique! My review is here.

Good Talk: A Memoir in Conversations by Mira Jacob: Another terrific recommendation from my terrific daughter! My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

I got sucked into watching Virgin River, and while sometimes the plot was a little too sappy for me, I’m now obsessed with the location and scenery, and want nothing more than a cozy cabin along the side of that beautiful river. Question for anyone who’s read the books: Are they good? Would a reader who only-sometimes tolerates romance novels enjoy them?

Fresh Catch:

Thank you, lovely people at Orbit, for these two books that arrived this week!

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Mort by Terry Pratchett: It’s a new month, which means it’s time for another Discworld book! I’m excited to be reading Mort — this is the one I hear the most good things about.

Now playing via audiobook:

Mythos by Stephen Fry: My daughter convinced me that I had to listen to this audiobook, and as usual, she was correct. Really liking it so far!

Ongoing reads:

Outlander Book Club is re-reading Outlander! We’re reading and discussing one chapter per week. This week: Chapter 21, “Une Mauvais Quart D’Heure After Another”. Uh oh. Another dramatic chapter to deal with.

So many books, so little time…