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.

How did it get to be July already? Feels like I blinked, and suddenly half of 2024 has zipped by! This has been a mostly quiet week, but I did get to do more dancing than usual, and even had time plus cooperative weather for outdoor reading over the weekend.

What did I read during the last week?

The Art of Catching Feelings by Alicia Thompson: I’m not a prime target for a baseball book… but this contemporary romance about unexpected connections was a delight! My review is here.

Winter Lost (Mercy Thompson, #14) by Patricia Briggs: Not my favorite in the series… but the series remains a favorite. My review is here.

My Lady Jane by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, & Jodi Meadows: This audiobook was amazing! The book itself was a reread for me, but it was my first experience with the audio version, and I just loved it. My review of the book from my first time reading it is here.

Pop culture & TV:

I finally got around to watching Gen V, which is a spin-off of The Boys. OK, if you’ve watched The Boys at all, then the level of over-the-top gore and violence and “oh my god, can they do that on TV?” will be totally expected. Gotta admit, I thought it was lots of fun… and now I’m ready to start the new season of The Boys.

I started season 3 of The Bear over the weekend, and… it’s intense. As expected. Somehow, I didn’t remember feeling this anxious during each episode during previous seasons. Still great, of course.

Also, how did Interview with the Vampire go from a dull first episode this season to having stellar episodes by the end? Every single one of the last four or so episodes have absolutely slayed. Exciting to hear that season 3 is definitely happening, and that it’ll be picking up with storylines from The Vampire Lestat, the 2nd book in the series. Rockstar Lestat? Sign me up.

Fresh Catch:

Two characters in a book I read last week were discussing Mandy by Julie Andrews, and I realized that (a) it’s been too many years since I read it, and (b) I don’t know where my old copy went. Sadly, this book doesn’t seem to be available in e-book format — but I went ahead and bought myself a paperback, and it just arrived over the weekend. Can’t wait to read it again!

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Finding Mr. Write by Kelley Armstrong: I’ve really enjoyed everything I’ve read by this author so far — this is her first romance, and while it’s a big departure, it’s also a lot of fun. I should be done today or tomorrow.

Now playing via audiobook:

My Oxford Year by Julia Whelan: The author is also the narrator, and since Julia Whelan is in a league of her own when it comes to audiobook narration, this is sure to be a great listen. I’ve had this book in my Audible library for quite a while now — I’m glad to finally be starting it.

Ongoing reads:

Two longer-term reading commitments:

• Damn Rebel Bitches: The Women of the ’45 by Maggie Craig: Over at Outlander Book Club, we’re doing a group read of this non-fiction book, discussing one chapter each Friday. Progress: 29%. Coming up this week: Chapter 9, “My Darling Clementine”
• The Winter’s Tale by William Shakespeare: My book group will be reading and discussing two scenes per week, starting this week.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

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 was nice to have a day off midweek, even if I didn’t do much… or I guess, especially since I didn’t do much. I appreciated de-stressing, fiddling around with household projects, going for a walk, and just… being a bit more chill than usual.

What did I read during the last week?

The Mountain in the Sea by Ray Nayler: My book group’s June pick is a fascinating look at first contact between species, with plenty to think about in terms of consciousness and humanity. And if that sounds perhaps dull or a bit too philosophical — it’s an exciting sci-fi story with plenty of action too! My review is here.

One-Star Romance by Laura Hankin: I gave this book more than one star… but not by much. My review is here.

Funny Story by Emily Henry: I really enjoyed the audiobook — the story itself is terrific, and the narration by Julia Whelan is just as fantastic as you’d expect. A great summer read. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

I ended up watching the second batch of Bridgerton (season 3) episodes again this week… still terrific! And sure, I have quibbles, but I love how much the show manages to deliver. Sadly, it’s now a 2 year (ish) wait for the next season.

I was really sad to hear about the passing of Donald Sutherland this week. From Animal House to the Hunger Games movies, he’s always been a favorite, with such a unique screen presence.

My book group finished our massive reading project last week — Daniel Deronda by George Elliot — and this past week, I watch the 4-part TV miniseries (available via Hulu and probably elsewhere too). Overall, I thought it was a good adaptation with a terrific cast. Some plot points — and of course, much of the deeper elements — get lost in the transition to screen, but the characters and conflicts are depicted fairly faithfully. For those who don’t have the patience to get through the book, this is a good way to at least somewhat experience the story.

Fresh Catch:

It’s the new Mercy book!!

I’m much more selective these days when it comes to buying hardcover books… but I always buy the new Mercy book right on release day. The covers are so gorgeous! (Artist Dan Dos Santos is incredibly talented — check out his website). I’ve loved this series from the start, and I love that it’s still going strong, 14 books in (and counting!).

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

I’d planned to start Winter Lost right away, but have had such hectic days that I never ended up with a big chunk of time to just relax and read, and I want to be able to savor it. So, hopefully, I’ll dive in later this week, and meanwhile, I’m reading…

The Art of Catching Feelings by Alicia Thompson: I am not a baseball person AT ALL, so this is not an obvious pick for me, except I really enjoyed the author’s previous two books. This is light and fast-moving, and I should wrap it up pretty quickly.

Now playing via audiobook:

My Lady Jane by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows: With the Prime Video series starting later this week, I decided I needed to do a reread via audiobook, and I’m loving it. This book is so funny and delightful, and the narration is terrific. Plus, it’s good prep for me to get back into the series and finally continue onward.

Ongoing reads:

Just one at the moment, until my book group starts a new classic read next month:

• Damn Rebel Bitches: The Women of the ’45 by Maggie Craig: Over at Outlander Book Club, we’re doing a group read of this non-fiction book, discussing one chapter each Friday. Progress: 27%. Coming up this week: Chapter 8, “Whither Thou Goest”

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

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.

Some fun outings this week — dancing in the park on a sunny day, and a movie with my (adult) kiddo, plus a delicious Father’s Day dinner with the fam.

Book news.

By now, I’m sure everyone who cares is aware of this… but I’m pretty excited about the news that Suzanne Collins will be releasing a new Hunger Games prequel next year. Sunrise on the Reaping will be published in March 2025, and the movie adaptation is already scheduled for release in November 2026.

What did I read during the last week?

Hula by Jasmin ‘Iolani Hakes: I finished this complicated historical novel with a week to spare before my book group discussion! My review is here.

Kilmeny of the Orchard by L. M. Montgomery: I’ve been working my way through this amazing author’s books. Sadly, this one is on the weaker side, but for the sake of completion, I’m glad I read it anyway. My review is here.

Middletide by Sarah Crouch: This small-town murder mystery seems to be getting a big promotional push (blurbs compare it to Where the Crawdads Sing), but I found it underbaked and unbelievable. My review is here.

Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan: My 3rd book by this author, just as great as the previous two! My review is here.

BIG FINISH:

My book group finished its chapter-by-chapter read of Daniel Deronda by George Eliot — a 7-month reading odyssey! I’m so grateful that we read this book together. I’m not sure that I would have read it on my own, given its complexity and length, but it was a wonderful reading experience. There’s so much to digest and discuss, and for anyone who’s ever considered reading Daniel Deronda… I say YES!

Pop culture & TV:

I watched season 3, part 2 of Bridgerton over two nights, and overall, loved it. I do feel that breaking up the season into two four-episode halves doesn’t do it any favors — each time we feel the momentum really building, it’s over. But as a whole, it was well done and delicious… and yet, I walked away feeling a teensy bit dissatisfied. I think I would have liked a little more time with the characters after the big climactic moment of the final episode, but at least we know that HEAs abound for so many of the characters. And now, the long wait for season 4 begins… (I’m sure I’ll do a rewatch at some point, and may even reread the 4th Bridgerton book, Romancing Mr. Bridgerton, which is the basis for this season’s central storyline.)

On Saturday, my son and I went to see the Fathom Events screening of Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. It was amazing to see it on the big screen once again! The 2nd and 3rd movies in the LOTR trilogy are playing next weekend, and while I haven’t bought tickets yet, I’m going to try my best to see them both.

In other pop culture / bookish news… have you seen the trailer for the My Lady Jane series coming up on Prime Video? I loved the My Lady Jane book (yet another book for my need-to-reread-list), and this looks delightful. (Bonus points for including a favorite actor from the A Discovery of Witches adaptation)

Fresh Catch:

No new books this week.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

The Mountain in the Sea by Ray Nayler: This is my book group book for June, and I’m getting a late start. Oops. (The nice thing is that our discussion is via chat threads, so there’s no hard pressure to finish on time)

Now playing via audiobook:

Funny Story by Emily Henry: Emily Henry books are SO good on audio, especially with the fabulous Julie Whelan narrating. I’m about halfway through this book, and it’s just as much fun as I’d expected.

Ongoing reads:

Just one at the moment, now that we’ve finished Daniel Deronda:

• Damn Rebel Bitches: The Women of the ’45 by Maggie Craig: Over at Outlander Book Club, we’re doing a group read of this non-fiction book, discussing one chapter each Friday. Progress: 24%. Coming up this week: Chapter 7, “Sealed with a Loving Kiss”

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

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.

The week zipped by. Nothing too eventful, but I did manage to finally get some travel plans made for later in the summer. Vacation time is still way off, but at least it’s on the calendar!

Reading & blogging.

I’ve reached a point where I’m super frustrated — mostly with myself — because I’m overextended with ARC commitments and find myself without the ability to read on a whim… or at least, to read on a whim without guilt. The ARCs I have pending are all books I’ve been excited to read, and still, they’re taking up too much of my reading time.

Reading by obligation or to meet a schedule has never particularly worked for me. (This is why I tend not to participate in reading challenges). From this point forward, I’m going to try to be much more selective about requesting ARCs — my intention will be to request only the ones I’d read no matter what. As for the ARCs I might be tempted to request because they happen to catch my eye, my goal will be to make note of upcoming releases that look good and add them to my library “for later” list, but not put in any further spur-of-the-moment ARC requests this year.

I need more reading freedom! It makes me cranky to have to plan my books according to the calendar.

What did I read during the last week?

Jackpot Summer by Elyssa Friedland: For all of us who dream about winning the lottery! My review is here.

Hula by Jasmin ‘Iolani Hakes: A powerful, beautiful novel about family, belonging, responsibility, and tradition. I read this for a book group; our discussion is coming up in another week. Review to follow.

A Turn of the Tide (A Stitch in Time, #3) by Kelley Armstrong: This installment (in an excellent series) is a swashbuckling adventure — pirates included! I also read the companion/follow-up novella, Ghosts & Garlands, which is a sweet holiday-themed treat. My review of A Turn of the Tide is here.

Pop culture & TV:

I’m so glad I decided to go back to Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power! When it originally aired, I watched one episode… and for whatever reason, kind of wandered away and never continued. With the 2nd season about to drop, I thought it was time to give it another try, and finished season 1 on Sunday night. I loved it! Can’t wait for season 2.

Meanwhile, after a lackluster start, season 2 of Interview with the Vampire has really picked up over the last couple of episodes, and I’m hooked.

Of course, what I’m most excited for is the 2nd half of the Bridgerton season… starting in just a few days!

Fresh Catch:

No new books this week.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

I finished a big book (Hula) late Sunday, and haven’t quite decided what to start next. Most likely, once of these:

All three are ARCs for June new releases — two romances, and one other with a pretty dramatic vibe, so I’ll just have to see which suits my mood later today!

Now playing via audiobook:

Kilmeny of the Orchard by L. M. Montgomery: I’m slowly trying to read the various stand-alones by LMM on my TBR list. This is a relatively short audiobook, and so far, the opening chapters have been enough to catch my attention.

Ongoing reads:

My longer-term reading commitments:

• Daniel Deronda by George Eliot: My book group’s current classic read. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 98%. Our final week! We’ll finish the last chapter on Wednesday this week.
• Damn Rebel Bitches: The Women of the ’45 by Maggie Craig: Over at Outlander Book Club, we’re doing a group read of this non-fiction book, discussing one chapter each Friday. Progress: 22%. Coming up this week: Chapter 6, “The Monstrous Regiment of Women”

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

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 may not officially be summer until later this month, but as far as I’m concerned, June 1st is close enough! We had enough sunshine over the weekend for me to get outside both days, despite super blustery winds each afternoon.

In any case, it’s been an uneventful week — work, home, reading, etc etc etc — and that’s okay. Sometimes routine and quiet can be a good vibe.

What did I read during the last week?

The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center: So much fun! My review is here.

The Guncle Abroad by Steven Rowley: Delightful, funny, and the audiobook is a joy to listen to. My review is here.

Time’s Convert (All Souls, #4) by Deborah Harkness: I’m so glad I finally took the time to return to this outstanding series, especially with a new book coming this summer. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

I just wasn’t in much of a TV mood this week, but I ended up deciding to give Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power another try. When season 1 first aired, I watched the first episode, and I don’t even remember why I never ended up continuing. So, back to the beginning I went, and now that I’ve watched the first episode (again) and also the second, I have to say that I’m into it! I’m looking forward to watching the rest of season 1 over the course of the coming week.

Also on Prime Video, I ended up watching the movie American Fiction this weekend. Great performances and so many interesting moments… but the ending kind of threw me, and I have mixed feelings about it as a whole.

Fresh Catch:

I treated myself to one new hardcover this week — this book is a novella set in the world of the Rip Through Time series, which I love.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Jackpot Summer by Elyssa Friedland: Just getting started, but this seems like a light, fun summer read.

Now playing via audiobook:

A Turn of the Tide (A Stitch in Time, #3) by Kelley Armstrong: Continuing onward with this terrific series.

Ongoing reads:

My longer-term reading commitments:

• Daniel Deronda by George Eliot: My book group’s current classic read. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 96%. Two weeks left!
• Damn Rebel Bitches: The Women of the ’45 by Maggie Craig: Over at Outlander Book Club, we’ve started a group read of this non-fiction book, discussing one chapter each Friday. Progress: 17%. Coming up this week: Chapter 5, “Will the Real Jenny Cameron Please Stand Up?”

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

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.

Three cheers for a three-day weekend! After an intense workweek, I really needed this long weekend. And really, I mostly did nothing! We had some friends stop by, spent some time outdoors, worked on odds and ends around the house… all very low-key, and that’s just what I wanted.

What did I read during the last week?

The Neighbor Favor by Kristina Forest: An audiobook romance that focuses on booklovers — what’s not to enjoy? My review is here.

Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate: Historical fiction with timelines in 1909 and 1990. Interesting, although I didn’t get particularly emotionally involved. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

Lots of sampling of different shows this week, no new binges. I caught up on the first two episodes of Interview with the Vampire (season 2) — not overly impressed so far this season, but let’s see if it gets better. Survivor season 46 wrapped up, and I posted some thoughts here.

Fresh Catch:

No new books this week.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center: A yummy delight. Almost done! Should have a review up in the next few days.

Now playing via audiobook:

The Guncle Abroad by Steven Rowley: The sequel to The Guncle, which I loved! The author is the audiobook narrator, and he’s terrific. What fun!

Ongoing reads:

My longer-term reading commitments:

• Daniel Deronda by George Eliot: My book group’s current classic read. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 94%. We’re getting close to the end — just three more weeks to go!
• Damn Rebel Bitches: The Women of the ’45 by Maggie Craig: Over at Outlander Book Club, we’ve started a group read of this non-fiction book, discussing one chapter each Friday. Progress: 13%.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

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.

Not that I expect anyone but me to notice… but yes, I skipped a week last week! This is my first Monday post since 5/6, and that’s because my husband and I took a quick trip to New York last weekend for a family graduation.

And while the graduation was the prompt for the weekend, we decided to make a mini-vacation out of it. We stayed in the city, did a ton of walking around Central Park, mid-town, and elsewhere, saw an amazing show, visited with various family members, and all in all, just lived it up!

Of course, the flying and overall hectic pace meant I was exhausted by the time I got home (and went straight back to work) — but it was worth it!

What did I read during the last (two) weeks?

With flights and some random moments of down time, I did manage to do quite a bit of reading (yay!). Here’s what I finished reading over the last two weeks:

The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren: A total blast. My review is here.

The House that Horror Built by Christina Henry: A haunted house story with an unusual setup and main character. My review is here.

The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean: A dark, disturbing thriller with plenty of twists. My review is here.

Where Have All the Boys Gone? by Jenny Colgan: A backlist book by a favorite author which shows (sadly) that some books just don’t stand the test of time. My review is here.

Howards End by E. M. Forster: My Classics Club Spin book for spring! Loved it. Check out my reaction, here.

The Phone Booth at the Edge of the World by Laura Imai Messina: My book group’s book for May. Lovely and moving. Review to follow.

All’s Fair in Love and War by Virginia Heath: A cute Regency romance between a busy naval officer and the governess he hires to care for his nieces and nephew. My review is here.

And, from the prior week — a review for a book read earlier but not yet shared:

Disturbing the Dead (A Rip Through Time, #3) by Kelley Armstrong: Another excellent installment in a favorite series. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

Bridgerton is back! I don’t really understand why Netflix is releasing season 3 in two parts — I’ve already devoured the four episodes released this past week. and it’s frustrating to have to wait a few more weeks for more. Still… loving Penelope in the spotlight!

On a different pop culture note, my weekend in New York included a night on Broadway! We went to see & Juliet, and absolutely loved it. What a great production — so upbeat and entertaining! Highly recommended if you find yourself in New York, dying for a musical!

Fresh Catch:

Since I was away… no new books! (Okay, yes, I did grab a few deals for my Kindle, but no physical books purchased in the last two weeks)

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate: Just getting started — seems like this will be interesting and intense.

Now playing via audiobook:

The Neighbor Favor by Kristina Forest: This audiobook popped up when I was browsing my library’s app, and since it was available right away, I decided to give it a try. Pretty fun so far, especially since book lovers are at the heart of the story.

Ongoing reads:

My longer-term reading commitments:

• Daniel Deronda by George Eliot: My book group’s current classic read. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 91%.
• Damn Rebel Bitches: The Women of the ’45 by Maggie Craig: Over at Outlander Book Club, we’ve started a group read of this non-fiction book, discussing one chapter each Friday. Progress: 11%.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

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.

We’ve been finishing up our home repair project this past week — just a few small touch-up items left to do, and then we’re done! It’s nice not to have tarps and dust everywhere…

What did I read during the last week?

Once again, a week zoomed by with barely any time to read. I managed to finish one audiobook and one ebook, and that’s it. My finished books this week:

Soul Taken (Mercy Thompson, #13) by Patricia Briggs: An audiobook reread — now I’m ready for the next book in the series, coming in June! My review from my first time reading this book is here.

Disturbing the Dead (A Rip Through Time, #3) by Kelley Armstrong: This author is so consistently great! I loved this newest book in her excellent Victorian/time travel/mystery series. Review to follow within the next few days.

Pop culture & TV:

I finished season 3 (the final season) of A Discovery of Witches. I don’t understand why such great books feel so flat in the TV adaptation. The cast is strong and it’s all quite nice to look at… but the pacing and presentation are slow and (I hate to say it) pretty dull and uninvolving. What a letdown. (Still looking forward to reading the next book in the series though…)

Fresh Catch:

Two new hardcover books this week:

Yes, more Kelley Armstrong! And a new collection of Seanan McGuire stories is a must for me.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren: Started on Sunday afternoon, and I’ve been racing through it! I’m at about the 50% mark — it’s so much fun.

Now playing via audiobook:

Where Have All the Boys Gone? by Jenny Colgan: An early book by a favorite author. I needed something super light this week, and this audiobook seems to be working!

Ongoing reads:

My longer-term reading commitments:

• Daniel Deronda by George Eliot: My book group’s current classic read. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 88%.
• Damn Rebel Bitches: The Women of the ’45 by Maggie Craig: Over at Outlander Book Club, we’ve started a group read of this non-fiction book, discussing one chapter each Friday. So far, we’ve only read the preface — we really get going this week, starting with chapter one.
• Howards End by E. M. Forster: My Classics Club Spin book. I’m reading it via Serial Reader, and loving it. Progress: 36%.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

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 an eventful week — first Passover (really nice Seder with friends), then lots of progress on a home-repair/remodel project (yay for a new shower and a repaired staircase!), and a weekend with decent enough weather to get outside and enjoy.

What did I read during the last week?

The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger: Finished late last week, and just got around to posting a review, here.

Darling Girls by Sally Hepworth: An immersive thriller, really well told. My review is here.

Love, Lies, and Cherry Pie by Jackie Lau: A funny, fast-paced take on the fake-dating trope. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

It dawned on my that I never got around to watching the final season (#3) of A Discovery of Witches. I loved the books way back when, but every single episode, I struggle to keep my eyes open. It’s just so sloooooooow. But, I’m powering through — it’s a good refresher before I finally read Time’s Convert and get ready for Deborah Harkness’s upcoming new release (The Black Bird Oracle) this summer.

Fresh Catch:

I couldn’t resist treating myself to this pretty hardcover, to go with my other books in the Stitch in Time series.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Disturbing the Dead (A Rip Through Time, #3) by Kelley Armstrong: This author is so consistently great! I’m excited to be starting the newest book in her excellent Victorian/time travel series.

Now playing via audiobook:

Soul Taken (Mercy Thompson, #13) by Patricia Briggs: I’m loving this audiobook re-read! Should be done in the next few days.

Ongoing reads:

My longer-term reading commitments:

• Daniel Deronda by George Eliot: My book group’s current classic read. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 86%.
• Damn Rebel Bitches: The Women of the ’45 by Maggie Craig: Coming soon! Over at Outlander Book Club, we’ll be starting a group read of this non-fiction book at the end of this week, discussing one chapter each Friday. Interested? Contact me for more info!
• Howards End by E. M. Forster: My Classics Club Spin book. I’m reading it via Serial Reader, and really loving it so far. Progress: 21%.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…

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.

Happy Passover to all who celebrate! This will be the first Passover in several years where we haven’t done a big family seder at home. Instead, we’re heading to friends who live not too far away, and it should be really nice.

What did I read during the last week?

The Evolution of Annabel Craig by Lisa Grunwald: Fascinating look at a pivotal moment in early 20th century America, as seen through the eyes of a young woman undergoing a personal awakening. Excellent! My review is here.

A Twist of Fate (A Stitch in Time, #2) by Kelley Armstrong: A terrific 2nd book in a very enjoyable timeslip series. My review is here.

The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger: The author was gracious enough to Zoom with my book group over the weekend — always a treat. I finished the book late Sunday; review to follow.

Snowstorms & Sleigh Bells (A Stitch in Time, #2.5): I also read this sweet novella, which follows the characters from A Twist of Fate in a Christmas-themed story. Very enjoyable.

Pop culture & TV:

I finished re-watching Queen Charlotte. So good! I’m not sure what I’ll start next, but meanwhile, I’m a few weeks behind on The Amazing Race, and I’m looking forward to catching up.

Fresh Catch:

No new books this week.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Darling Girls by Sally Hepworth: This author’s thrillers are always a great ride — this new one is releasing this week, and I’m exciting to be starting it.

Now playing via audiobook:

Soul Taken (Mercy Thompson, #13) by Patricia Briggs: I’ve been planning to do a re-read via audiobook before the new Mercy book is released in June, and now seems like a great time to dive in.

Ongoing reads:

My longer-term reading commitments:

• Daniel Deronda by George Eliot: My book group’s current classic read. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 84%.
• Damn Rebel Bitches: The Women of the ’45 by Maggie Craig: Coming soon! Over at Outlander Book Club, we’ll be starting a group read of this non-fiction book in early May. Interested? Contact me for more info!
• Howards End by E. M. Forster: My new Classics Club Spin book! I’m starting it via Serial Reader, and should finish by the end of May.

What will you be reading this week?

So many books, so little time…