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’s been a return to busy-ness — work is back at full swing, and I’ve had lots of little errands and projects keeping me on the run outside of work. Thankfully, we had clear blue skies over the weekend, so I was able to enjoy a couple of long walks and some outdoor reading time. (Give me a comfy chair on the back porch, a big iced coffee, and a good book, and I’m a very happy camper.)

Reading habits.

Speaking of my reading life, I shared my annual post about series I plan (or hope) to read in 2025. You can check it out here — I’d love to hear reactions and recommendations!

Also, just a general observation: I’ve been realizing that I tend to read books in the romance genre via audiobook, much more so than any other genre. I guess I like light, upbeats listens, and save heavier topics or more complicated reading for print? This isn’t an absolute rule or anything, just a pattern I’ve noticed. (How about you? Do you gravitate toward certain formats for certain genres?)

Blogging.

A new weird bug has popped up for me in WordPress these past few weeks. To start a new post, I typically copy an existing post, then edit the title and go from there. As of about two weeks ago, after I edit the title and hit save, the post title reverts to the original title, although the post itself is saved as a new draft. I find that I have to exit the post and use the Quick Edit option to get the title to stick. The body of the post saves just fine; it’s just the title that refuses to stick. Anyone else experiencing this?

Little Free Library update.

Awwwww. I went out for a walk yesterday, and when I got back, I saw that my LFL was filled with new books — a whole slew of kids’ books, including a bunch of Raina Telgemeier books! It made me happy.

What did I read during the last week?

The Thorns Remain by JJA Harwood: Finished at the end of last week. Really good! My review is here.

The Christmas You Found Me by Sarah Morgenthaler: Like a Hallmark Christmas movie in book form — sweet, predictable, cozy, guaranteed happy ending. (And yes, I enjoyed it!) My review is here.

The Apology by Jimin Han: My book group’s most recent discussion book — parts of the story really fascinated me, and then I lost interest during the second half. Still, there was a lot to discuss, and overall I’m glad I read it.

The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava: A rom-com notable for its indigenous representation, but the office romance elements made me cringe. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

I watched The Substance this past week. Whoa… so gross and disturbing, but also weird and bizarre and fascinating. I totally get all the buzz about Demi Moore — she’s phenomenal in this movie! It’s super gory (I watched certain scenes while peeking through my fingers), and definitely not for anyone squeamish, but it certainly had an impact. It’s been days, and I’m still thinking about it.

Fresh Catch:

My pretty new hardcover edition of Adrift in Currents Clean and Clear arrived this week! This is the 10th book in the Wayward Children series, and it’s a great one! I reviewed it earlier this month; see my thoughts here.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

We Love the Nightlife by Rachel Koller Croft: How could I resist a disco-themed vampire book?

Now playing via audiobook:

This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune: I’m planning to start this audiobook today! I loved the last two books by this author, and can’t wait to dive in.

Ongoing reads:

My book group’s classic read is Mansfield Park by Jane Austen. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 20%. Up next: Chapters 10 and 11.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…