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.

My birthday is coming up this week, and while we usually don’t make a big fuss, this year my husband and I are actually getting away for a few days. I’m excited — it’s been almost a year since I’ve done any real traveling — but still need to pack, organize, and (most importantly) figure out which books to bring!

A blogging note: I’m not bringing a laptop, and I’m not planning to be online much. I already have tomorrow’s TTT post ready to go, but after that, I don’t anticipate posting until next week’s Monday post.

What did I read during the last week?

Dreambound by Dan Frey: Terrific, twisty fantasy tale. My review is here.

Auggie & Me by R. J. Palacio: A collection of three stories related to the world of Wonder, each focusing on a different friend or classmate of Auggie’s. A nice supplemental read after finishing Wonder.

Woke Up Like This by Amy Lea: A YA timeslip story very much along the lines of movies like 13 Going on 30. Nothing special. My review is here.

All the Dead Shall Weep (Gunnie Rose, #5) by Charlaine Harris: The newest book in a terrific series set in an alternate history US. My review is here.

Fair Rosaline by Natasha Solomons: Fabulous reinterpretation of the story of Romeo and Juliet. It’s not what you expect! Review to follow (probably next week).

Pop culture & TV:

I finished my Virgin River (season 5) binge. It’s as corny and predictable as ever… and I just can’t stop watching! I wrote up some thoughts, here.

Fresh Catch:

My daughter is amazing (as I’m sure I’ve already established!). She sent me perfect-for-me birthday gifts this week:

The gifts are: A Jane Austen-themed puzzle book (awesome!) and a set of three literary teas (which came with a set of bookmarks too). I’m looking forward to tea and puzzles when I get back from my trip!

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

The Measure by Nikki Erlick: My book group’s pick for September. Just getting started, but I’m intrigued already!

Now playing via audiobook:

Lost in the Moment and Found (Wayward Children, #8) by Seanan McGuire: I read this book when it came out earlier in the year, but I always enjoy the audiobooks as well (and needed something on the shorter side that I could finish before leaving on my trip).

Ongoing reads:

None at the moment!

My book group has two long-term reading projects (one a classic, one Outlander-related) starting late September/early October, but right now, we have a bit of a break — which is fine! It gives me more time to catch up on the thousands of other books I want to read.

So many books, so little time…