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.

Another busy week, but at least I managed to squeeze in a little outdoor time over the weekend!

What did I read during the last week?

A Mirror Mended (Fractured Fables, #2) by Alix E. Harrow: I loved the first book in the series (A Spindle Splintered), so why did this sequel feel so “meh” to me? I couldn’t even figure out what to say about it, so I didn’t end up writing a review. It wasn’t a bad read — it just didn’t leave an impression.

All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot: Awwww… listening to this audiobook is such a warm, lovely experience. My review is here.

Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood: I kind of hate the cover art (too cartoon-y), but otherwise really enjoyed this quirky romance starring a woman in STEM. My review is here.

The Most Likely Club by Elyssa Friedland: Engaging contemporary fiction about enduring friendship and its power to change lives. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

Little bits of lots of shows this week! I watched season 2 of Indian Matchmaking (a guilty pleasure for sure!), plus episodes of Revervation Dogs, She-Hulk, and What We Do in the Shadows.

My husband and I finally finished season 1 of The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem (he’s not a binge-watcher, so it took us forever). If I can get him to agree, we’ll start season 2 this week!

And, like millions of people, I started House of the Dragon. Mixed feelings, for sure. I mean, it’s fine — but it’s also nothing new. Dragons, the Iron Throne, people slaughtering each other for no reason… been there, done that. I’ll keep watching, but I’m not exactly awestricken.

Fresh Catch:

I already read an ARC of this book, but absolutely needed the hardcover for my shelves! So pretty…

(I loved this new adventure in the ongoing Mercy series — my review is here.)

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Killers of a Certain Age by Deanna Raybourn: Just getting started — but the premise sounds terrific, and I always enjoy this author.

Now playing via audiobook:

When Sorrows Come (October Daye, #15) by Seanan McGuire: The 16th October Daye book will be released in early September… and that means it’s time to reread #15! I always enjoy the Toby audiobooks — this one is particularly fun.

Ongoing reads:

My longer-term reading commitments:

• Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone by Diana Gabaldon: Over at Outlander Book Club, we’re doing a group read of BEES, reading and discussing two chapters per week. If anyone wants to join us, just ask me how! All are welcome.
• Geektastic: Stories from the Nerd Herd edited by Holly Black and Cecil Castellucci: My daughter gave me this story collection a while back, and I thought I’d read it in bits and pieces, rather than all at once. I’m terrible when it comes to reading short stories, but my goal is to read 2 – 3 a week, either until I’m done or I’ve at least read all the stories that interest me.

So many books, so little time…