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 tough week — I came down with some sort of virus that kept me knocked out for days, and I’m still not quite back on my feet yet. Yuck. Less said, the better. (While awake, I did manage to read a lot, so there’s always a silver lining! But I was too foggy overall to do any posting or write reviews — hopefully I’ll catch up in the week to come.)

The kitty decided to grant me the favor of his company while I was mostly in bed for a few days. Lots of pillows and cozy blankets available, and he chose to sit on…

… my laptop.

Cats.

What did I read during the last week?

The Hebrew Teacher by Maya Arad: Interesting collection of three novellas that are thought-provoking and timely. I read this book before I got sick, so I managed to post a review — you can see it here.

Rich Girl Summer by Lily Chu: Really enjoyable audiobook, narrated by the amazing Phillipa Soo! Review to follow.

The Compound by Aisling Rawle: Kind of like Love Island, Big Brother, and The Hunger Games in a blender… really weird and compelling. I’ll definitely be writing a review for this one!

Watcher in the Woods (Rockton, #4) by Kelley Armstrong: As expected, another excellent installment in a great series. Review to come.

Pop culture & TV:

Outlander: Blood of My Blood continues to be terrific!

I managed to wrap up The Gilded Age — what a great season! Now I need to figure out what to start next…

Fresh Catch:

One new book this week:

After reading Hemlock & Silver as an ARC, I knew I needed a copy of my own! Love the acid-green edges.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea by Rebecca Thorne: Still in the early chapters, but I think the light, cozy tone is just what I need right now.

Now playing via audiobook:

A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna: I started this audiobook early last week, and then life got in the way. I may just switch over to print — I’ve liked what I’ve heard so far, and I do want to see where the story goes, but I just haven’t been up to audiobooks since I started not feeling great.

Ongoing reads:

My longer-term reading commitments (current and coming up):

• Villette by Charlotte Brontë: Group classic read, two chapters per week. Progress: 46%. Up next: Chapters 21 and 22.
• The Two Towers by J.R.R. Tolkien: My book group’s newest reading journey, continuing our LOTR adventure. Progress (relative to the entire LOTR opus): 36%.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…