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.

It was nice to have a day off midweek, even if I didn’t do much… or I guess, especially since I didn’t do much. I appreciated de-stressing, fiddling around with household projects, going for a walk, and just… being a bit more chill than usual.

What did I read during the last week?

The Mountain in the Sea by Ray Nayler: My book group’s June pick is a fascinating look at first contact between species, with plenty to think about in terms of consciousness and humanity. And if that sounds perhaps dull or a bit too philosophical — it’s an exciting sci-fi story with plenty of action too! My review is here.

One-Star Romance by Laura Hankin: I gave this book more than one star… but not by much. My review is here.

Funny Story by Emily Henry: I really enjoyed the audiobook — the story itself is terrific, and the narration by Julia Whelan is just as fantastic as you’d expect. A great summer read. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

I ended up watching the second batch of Bridgerton (season 3) episodes again this week… still terrific! And sure, I have quibbles, but I love how much the show manages to deliver. Sadly, it’s now a 2 year (ish) wait for the next season.

I was really sad to hear about the passing of Donald Sutherland this week. From Animal House to the Hunger Games movies, he’s always been a favorite, with such a unique screen presence.

My book group finished our massive reading project last week — Daniel Deronda by George Elliot — and this past week, I watch the 4-part TV miniseries (available via Hulu and probably elsewhere too). Overall, I thought it was a good adaptation with a terrific cast. Some plot points — and of course, much of the deeper elements — get lost in the transition to screen, but the characters and conflicts are depicted fairly faithfully. For those who don’t have the patience to get through the book, this is a good way to at least somewhat experience the story.

Fresh Catch:

It’s the new Mercy book!!

I’m much more selective these days when it comes to buying hardcover books… but I always buy the new Mercy book right on release day. The covers are so gorgeous! (Artist Dan Dos Santos is incredibly talented — check out his website). I’ve loved this series from the start, and I love that it’s still going strong, 14 books in (and counting!).

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

I’d planned to start Winter Lost right away, but have had such hectic days that I never ended up with a big chunk of time to just relax and read, and I want to be able to savor it. So, hopefully, I’ll dive in later this week, and meanwhile, I’m reading…

The Art of Catching Feelings by Alicia Thompson: I am not a baseball person AT ALL, so this is not an obvious pick for me, except I really enjoyed the author’s previous two books. This is light and fast-moving, and I should wrap it up pretty quickly.

Now playing via audiobook:

My Lady Jane by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows: With the Prime Video series starting later this week, I decided I needed to do a reread via audiobook, and I’m loving it. This book is so funny and delightful, and the narration is terrific. Plus, it’s good prep for me to get back into the series and finally continue onward.

Ongoing reads:

Just one at the moment, until my book group starts a new classic read next month:

• Damn Rebel Bitches: The Women of the ’45 by Maggie Craig: Over at Outlander Book Club, we’re doing a group read of this non-fiction book, discussing one chapter each Friday. Progress: 27%. Coming up this week: Chapter 8, “Whither Thou Goest”

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…