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.

What can I say about last week? Words fail me. Locally, I’m fairly pleased with our election results, especially a proposition about turning an oceanside roadway into a park. (Want to know what I’m talking about? Check out this article — I voted yes!!)

Other than that… it hasn’t actually been a terrible week. Busy at work, nice family time, and some beautiful sunny days!

What did I read during the last week?

One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez: FINISHED! After two different reading attempts years ago ended in DNFs, I was determined to finally make it all the way through this book, and I did it! I’m still digesting, to be honest. I can’t say I loved the reading experience, but I can see why this is considered such a huge literary achievement. I’m glad to have seen it through, but don’t feel up for writing an actual review. Still… it’s done!!

Every Summer After by Carley Fortune: I loved this story of former teen sweethearts reuniting years later as adults. Touching and nostalgic, and very engaging. My review is here.

The Teller of Small Fortunes by Julie Leong: Sweet, cozy fantasy — a light and delicious read. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

Season 2 of The Diplomat was fantastic! Both season are available on Netflix. Terrific plot, dialogue, and acting — not that amazing acting is a surprise, with Keri Russell and Rufus Sewell in the lead roles.

Next up: The final season of Yellowstone — the first episode of the new/last season just dropped! It’s a little odd picking up the story again after almost two years… but it pulled me right back in, and I’m dying to see where the season goes.

Fresh Catch:

No new books this week.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See: My book group’s pick for November — and for once, I’m getting an early start! I’m only a few chapters in, but it’s great so far.

Now playing via audiobook:

The Beach Trap by Ali Brady: After reading my first Ali Brady book a couple of months ago, I jumped at the chance to borrow this audiobook when I randomly saw it marked as available on the Libby app! I’ve listened to about 10% so far, and it’s good!

Coming soon:

An Old-Fashioned Girl by Louisa May Alcott: My newest Classics Club Spin book! The deadline to finish is December 18th, and since this is a relatively short book, I may hold off another week or two before starting.

Ongoing reads:

Just one at the moment, and it’s almost done:

• Right Ho, Jeeves by P. G. Wodehouse: My book group’s classic read — one chapter to go! Progress: 96%. Coming up this week: Chapter 23.

We’ll be starting our next group classic read in early December.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…