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.

Busy, busy, busy! I was on the go all week, between work and various errands and tasks that needed my attention. I did get out for a nice dinner with a friend, and it was fabulous to take time to catch up.

We had gorgeous weather over the weekend… perfect for long walks and reading outside.

What did I read during the last week?

Lucy Undying by Kiersten White: Loved this Dracula retelling! My review is here.

The Haunting of Paynes Hollow by Kelley Armstrong: Terrific stand-alone horror from a favorite author. My review is here.

The Summer War by Naomi Novik: A fairy tale novella with a great premise and main character — but the story as a whole left me wishing for more. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

AppleTV+ continues to provide excellent viewing! I finished watching The Studio, and was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Over the weekend, I started Schmigadoon — it’s making my inner musical theater very happy.

Fresh Catch:

No new books this week.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

The Keeper of Magical Things by Julie Leong: Started yesterday, and it’s cute so far.

Now playing via audiobook:

My Friends by Fredrik Backman: I started this audiobook last week, and have about 25% left. The story is just so good, and the narrator is terrific.

Ongoing reads:

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

• Villette by Charlotte Brontë: Group classic read, two chapters per week. Progress: 80%. Up next: Chapters 35 and 36.
• The Two Towers by J.R.R. Tolkien: Another book group read, continuing our LOTR adventure. Progress (relative to the entire LOTR opus): 48%.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…