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.

My husband and I got away for a quick weekend escape to Mendocino, about three hours up the California coast from where we live. It’s a beautiful location, and we enjoyed the coastal views, cute towns, and laid back vibes.

What did I read during the last week?

Where The Girls Were by Kate Schatz: Powerful historical fiction. My review is here.

Is She Really Going Out With Him? by Sophie Cousens: Fun, upbeat audiobook! My review is here.

A Town Like Alice by Nevil Shute: My book group’s pick for February. I’ll be sharing my thoughts a bit later in the week — stay tuned.

Puzzle of the week:

It actually took me about two weeks…

The puzzle is by Cobble Hill, has so many pretty details, and is good, sturdy quality. You can find it on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3OGhFPo

As usual, the kitty supervised my work and kept the box safe.

Pop culture & TV:

After being away for the weekend, I managed to squeeze in the first two episodes of the 2nd half of the new Bridgerton season on Sunday (season 4, episodes 5 and 6). Can’t wait to watch the remaining two!

Fresh Catch:

No new physical books this week… but I did grab a few ebooks with price drops. Who can resist?

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

First Sign of Danger (Haven’s Rock, #4) by Kelley Armstrong: The newest Haven’s Rock book! I picked it up over the weekend, and read about half all in one sitting. It’s just as good as I’d expected… although it makes me sad to think I’ll be all caught up after this one!

Now playing via audiobook:

This Book Made Me Think of You by Libby Page: I started this audiobook Sunday afternoon, and although I haven’t gotten very far, I’m loving it already.

Ongoing reads:

My longer-term reading commitments:

• Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen: My book group’s current classic read. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 84%. Coming up this week: Chapters 27 & 28.
• The Return of the King by J. R. R. Tolkien: My book group’s journey through the LOTR books continues! Progress (relative to the entire LOTR opus): 77%.
• I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith: My newest Classics Club Spin book! I’m really happy with this spin result. Leaving it here as a reminder to start it in the next few weeks.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…