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 good week here (but only if I shut off the part of my brain that’s obsessed with the news). I fit in a few dance sessions, and the weather cooperated enough for us to be able to dance outdoors a couple of times. A good friend is in town for a family visit, and it was terrific to get to catch up again.

Our kitty cat seems to have a developed an interest in my bookshelf. What can I say? He’s a very smart cat.

What did I read during the last week?

Emily Wilde’s Compendium of Lost Tales (Emily Wilde, #3) by Heather Fawcett: I didn’t love this one as much as the first two in the series, but it works well as a wrap-up for the trilogy as a whole. My review is here.

Wyrd Sisters (Discworld, #6) by Terry Prachett: Another great Discworld audiobook! Silly and highly entertaining. My review is here.

Ready or Not by Cara Bastone: A sweet, friends-to-lovers romance featuring a very unexpected pregnancy. My audiobook review is here.

Greenteeth by Molly O’Neill: A terrific fantasy debut novel. Review to follow later in the week.

Pop culture & TV:

I’m not someone who feels the need to see every single Oscar-nominated movies — and yet, I’ve managed to watch two more! This past week, I watched Dune: Part 2 and Conclave. Dune is good, but confusing (and I say this as someone who’s read the books!), and probably would have felt more awe-inspiring on the big screen. Conclave is fascinating, and the acting is superb. Who knew I’d be interested in a movie about the inner workings of the Vatican?

That brings my Oscar tally to 5 out of 10 best picture movies watched (these two, plus Anora, Wicked, and The Substance) … and I don’t see myself checking out the rest.

Have you watched any of the other Best Picture nominees? Any recommendations?

My son and I also ended up watching The Menu — I had absolutely no idea what to expect ahead of time, so it was quite a shocker. (I just thought it was a movie about a demanding chef — go check out the trailer if you want to know more!)

In the world of TV, I’m excited for the new season of 1923, and will approach the new season of Yellowjackets with caution.

Fresh Catch:

Two gorgeous new hardcovers this week: A special edition of Dracula, with illustrations by Edward Gorey, and the new anniversary edition of The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Kills Well With Others by Deanna Raybourn: I started this book late Sunday, and I’m hooked already!

Now playing via audiobook:

The Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwood: I’ll be starting this audiobook today. It was an impulse borrow via the library’s website — fingers crossed it will be a good one!

Ongoing reads:

My book group’s classic read is Mansfield Park by Jane Austen. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 42%. Up next: Chapters 22 and 23.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…