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 went out — not once — but twice over the weekend! That’s pretty remarkable, considering that most weekends, my idea of fun is snuggling up with a blanket and a bowl of popcorn and catching up on Netflix. On Saturday, my husband and I went to a dance evening we usually enjoy (so much fun), and on Sunday, we went to the symphony to see Patti Lupone in concert.

Not only was the show terrific, but we also had a gorgeous view from the symphony hall balcony during intermission:

What did I read during the last week?

It’s been a slow reading week — just way too much else going on. Here’s what I did manage to finish:

The Hob’s Bargain by Patricia Briggs: Very interesting to go back and read an early book by a favorite author. My review is here.

Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez: This author’s audiobooks are so good! I’ve now listened to her most recent three, and need to go back and try her earlier trilogy. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

I finished my re-watch of Bridgerton season 2, and immediately started a re-watch of Queen Charlotte. These shows make me so happy. And I’m sure anyone who cares has already seen this, but… it’s the trailer for season 3!!

I’m loving Colin and Penelope’s glow-ups…

Fresh Catch:

One new book this week (and it’s such a pretty hardcover:

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Such a dilemma! I started the book on the left just before the weekend, and then ran out of time to get very far… which would be fine, except that the book on the right is my book group book, and our discussion is next weekend. What to do, what to do?

The Evolution of Annabel Craig by Lisa Grunwald: I was going to hit pause for a bit so I could start the other book, but now I’m hooked and don’t want to stop!

The River We Remember by William Krueger: I’m not sure I’ll be able to finish before our discussion, but I’ll give it my best shot.

Now playing via audiobook:

A Twist of Fate by Kelley Armstrong: The 2nd book in the Stitch in Time series, and it’s great so far!

Ongoing reads:

My longer-term reading commitments:

• Daniel Deronda by George Eliot: My book group’s current classic read. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 81%.
• Damn Rebel Bitches: The Women of the ’45 by Maggie Craig: Coming soon! Over at Outlander Book Club, we’ll be starting a group read of this non-fiction book in early May. Interested? Contact me for more info!

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…