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.

I had a busy week, but then actually went out for some fun over the weekend:

What did I read during the last week?

The Hundred Loves of Juliet by Evelyn Skye: A reimagining of Romeo and Juliet as lovers destined to meet and lose one another over and over again across the centuries. My review is here.

Mrs. Porter Calling by AJ Pearce: The 3rd book in a series about a woman on the WWII homefront is a delight. My review is here.

The Celebrants by Steven Rowley: I absolutely loved this book. Check out my review, here.

Pop culture & TV:

Well, there was Barbie… which was so much fun.

Streaming-wise, I finished the new season of The Witcher. It was okay, and I suppose I’m a bit sad to see Henry Cavill ending his role as Geralt, but overall, I’m not feeling all that invested in the show as a whole. I realized that the show has now caught up to about the same place that I’d gotten to in the books, so from here on out, the story will be new to me. (I also gave away all the books in the series — I don’t feel the need to read any more).

Next up: I’m about to start the new season of Heartstopper, and I’m so excited for more sweet adorableness.

Fresh Catch:

I bought hard copies of two books I’d previously read (and loved) as e-books:

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

California Golden by Melanie Benjamin: I haven’t had a chance to really get into this yet, but historical fiction about California surf culture in the 60s sounds like it should be a really good read.

Now playing via audiobook:

Happiness for Beginners by Katherine Center: I wasn’t sure what I was in the mood for when it was time to start a new audiobook, but so far, I’ve enjoyed everything by this author. Fingers crossed this will be a good one!

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. Coming up this week: Chapters 150 and 151 (of 155).
• Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons: My book group’s classic read — we’re reading and discussing two chapters per week, ending late summer. Progress: 65%

So many books, so little time…