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 4/20 day to all who celebrate. LOL. Not me… but I’m sure the local parks will have plenty of people observing the holiday!

Anyway…

It’s been another busy week, but I did carve out a bit more time for reading, so all in all, I feel good about it! It was a gorgeous sunny weekend and I got outdoors a lot (always a plus), and had a lovely zoom with my book group friends too.

What did I read during the last week?

I made a lot of progress with my April ARCs. Even better, 3 out of 4 were 5-star reads!

The Book Witch by Meg Shaffer: Quirky, funny, and utterly delightful. My review is here.

Cherry Baby by Rainbow Rowell: This book’s synopsis was pretty misleading… and the actual story was just so great! My review is here.

The Name Game by Beth O’Leary: I’ve had mixed experiences with this author’s books — a few I’ve loved, and a few… not so much. This one started out in the “meh” category for me, but picked up a lot in the back half. My review is here.

Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth: Finished late Sunday. Wow! Could not put this book down. Watch for my review later this week.

Pop culture & TV:

We’re down to just three episodes left of Outlander! This past week’s episode was a heartbreaker. Definitely a bit weird for book fans… and generating a lot of rants and controversy! It’s sad to see the show coming to an end, but thank goodness (and thank Diana) there’s still another book to come.

Other than that, I’ve had limited TV time, but I did finally start the most recent season of Dark Winds. I haven’t gotten very far, but it’s such an excellent show that I’m sure I’ll be hooked.

Fresh Catch:

New book!!

I treated myself to a signed hardcover edition of The Book Witch, ordered through the author’s local bookstore. Because it was a preorder with a special offer, it came with a bunch of goodies. I’m so glad I decided to splurge!

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke: I won copies of this book in a Little Free Library giveaway thanks to the Good Morning America book club. Both copies that I added to my LFL were snapped up right away… but I was able to get a copy from the library for my own reading pleasure! I’ve just gotten started — and it has immediately grabbed my attention.

Now playing via audiobook:

Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe: This book has been on my TBR for a while now, and since I do want to watch the AppleTV adaptation, it’s about time to start the book.

Ongoing reads:

The Mysteries of Udolpho by Ann Radcliffe: My book group’s newest classic read. We’re reading and discussing two chapters per week. Progress: 4%. Coming up this week: Chapters 3 and 4.

The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare: I’ll be seeing this play at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival this summer, and since I’ve never read it before, I decided now’s the time! I’m trying to read just one scene per day, taking my time with it since I have a few months yet. (I do believe I saw the Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton movie version way back in my high school days… I mainly just remember a close-up of her eyes!)

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.

I felt silly last year when I bought myself rain gear (pants and top)… but this weekend I was so happy that I had them! I was not about to let a little rain (OK, a lot of rain) keep me from the walks I’d been dying for all week! Despite the gusty winds, I stayed dry, got in a couple of good beach and park walks, and felt super satisfied by the time I got home.

Other than that, it’s been an intense work week, but I managed to squeeze in a little dancing, a jigsaw puzzle, and time for some phone catch-ups with long-distance friends.

Unfortunately, my reading time has been really limited apart from a few scattered hours over the weekend. Here’s hoping for a mellower week with a lot more book time ahead!

What did I read during the last week?

A Deadly Inheritance by Kelley Armstrong: Dark, twisty YA thriller. My review is here.

Just Kiss Already by Lily Chu: Really enjoyable audiobook romance. My review is here.

The Return of the King by J. R. R. Tolkien: My book group’s journey through the LOTR books wrapped up this past week! I loved revisiting the books with my group… and may continue delving into the related stories and lore on my own in weeks to come.

Book news:

I was delighted to see a cover reveal from Jen DeLuca, announcing the upcoming release of a 5th Ren Faire book! Well Versed will be published in September 2026. Can’t wait!

Puzzle of the week:

When I saw an ad for this puzzle pop up on my social feeds, I was drawn to the image and the gorgeous colors. The puzzle company isn’t one I’d tried before, and I’m often wary about unknown (to me) puzzle makers, since materials and quality can vary so much.

Still, the puzzle looked so pretty that I decided to give it a chance, and I’m glad I did! The pieces are sturdy and well cut, and while it doesn’t have quite the snap/click that makers like Ravensburger have, I was pleased with the overall piece design (and only ran into a few issues with pieces seeming like they could fit in more than one place).

The puzzle make is Playview, and this puzzle is part of their Cities at Midnight series. You can find it on Amazon, here.

Pop culture & TV:

I finished season 3 of XO Kitty on Netflix. I’m not sure why I find it so charming… but I just do! I hope another season is in the works.

I loved the season finale of Shrinking! What an amazing show.

I find myself in between once again, debating various options for what to watch next… but I’m leaning toward the most recent season of Dark Winds, which is just a consistently excellent series.

Fresh Catch:

One of my recent Goodreads giveaway wins arrived this week!

Also new this week: I received two copies of the Good Morning America book club pick for April, thanks to a Little Free Library giveaway for stewards. Exciting! The books will be going into my LFL once the rain stops… meanwhile, I may need to try to sneak in a read before they both find new homes.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

The Book Witch by Meg Shaffer: I’m really enjoying this book… and I’m frustrated that I didn’t have as much time for reading over the weekend as I wanted! I hope to finish in the next day or two.

Now playing via audiobook:

The Name Game by Beth O’Leary: I’m always up for trying a new release from Beth O’Leary! I’ve just barely gotten started, but I like the premise so far.

Ongoing reads:

My book group is kicking off a new classic read this week — and this one looks like it’ll be a doozy:

The Mysteries of Udolpho by Ann Radcliffe: After reading Northanger Abbey as a group, we’ve decided to read one of the books that Catherine Morland was obsessed with. Coming up this week: Chapters 1 and 2.

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.

I had a bit of a whirlwind trip to the East Coast and back to celebrate Passover in Boston with family. It was lots of fun, but I never did quite adjust to the time zone differences! The weather was pretty cold while we were there, so we bundled up to spend time wandering around and exploring. We just happened to come across the Make Way For Ducklings statues! (My daughter and I were delighted — but apparently the rest of our group missed out on the picture book as kids and didn’t get what the fuss was about).

What did I read during the last week?

Butterfly Effects (Incryptids, #15) by Seanan McGuire: I finished this one right before leaving on our trip. My review is here.

Alanna: Song of the Lioness, Book 1 (graphic novel) by Vita Ayala & Sam Beck: This adaptation of the Tamora Pierce YA fantasy is a good one! Obviously, it can’t get quite as detailed or provide as much depth as the original novel, but I enjoyed the artwork and the storytelling, and hope they’ll be continuing with the rest of the Alanna books.

The Last Devil to Die (Thursday Murder Club, #4) by Richard Osman: Just as entertaining as I’d expected! My review is here.

The Gathering by C. J. Tudor: A vampire/murder mystery set in a small Alaska town in the dead of winter. Terrific plot and premise — I enjoyed every moment. My review is here.

Pop culture & TV:

I’m happy to be starting the newest season of XO Kitty on Netflix — pure popcorn entertainment, and lots of fun. On the plane, I decided to give Loot on AppleTV a try. I liked the first two episodes enough to feel like I’ll continue, although I don’t feel any burning need to binge it.

Fresh Catch:

No new books this week.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

A Deadly Inheritance by Kelley Armstrong: I love this author, but haven’t read any of her YA fiction until now. I started this book over the weekend, and can’t put it down!

Now playing via audiobook:

Just Kiss Already by Lily Chu: I always enjoy this author’s audiobooks, and this one is off to a great start!

Ongoing reads:

As of this moment, I’m down to just one long-term reading commitment:

• The Return of the King by J. R. R. Tolkien: This will be the final week of my book group’s journey through the LOTR books!

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.

After a very busy workweek, I took time over the weekend to relax, exercise, and do not much at all! Well, that’s not entirely accurate — I did spend some time organizing and getting ready to travel. My extended family is meeting on the east coast this coming week to celebrate Passover together, and I can’t wait to see everyone!

I’ll be away for the remainder of the week starting tomorrow, and expect to mainly be off-line until the weekend. I’m busy planning what to read on the plane (let’s focus on the important things!) and what to pack for a few days of cold, rainy weather.

Wishing all who celebrate a Happy Passover and Happy Easter!

What did I read during the last week?

Grace & Henry’s Holiday Movie Marathon by Matthew Norman: I finished this sweet audiobook last week, and just posted a review, here.

Nobody’s Baby by Olivia Waite: This novella is the 2nd in a really fun space/detective novella series. My review is here.

And Then There Was You by Sophie Cousens: An uneven story, although the audiobook narration kept me entertained. My review is here.

Everybody’s Favorite Guy by Katherine Center: Cute short story by a favorite author. (Looks like it’s currently free as a Prime reading choice.)

Butterfly Effects (Incryptids, #15 by Seanan McGuire: That’s right, it’s book #15 in this series! I finished this book late on Sunday — look for my review later this week.

Pop culture & TV:

I’m trying to decide if I feel like downloading something to watch on the plane — or to devote my six hours of flight time to reading. What a choice! For downloads, I’m considering watching the first episodes of either Bad Monkey or For All Mankind… unless something else catches my eye between now and then.

I managed to finish the newest season of Virgin River early last week. It was… okay. I enjoy the characters, even when the drama is over the top and the romance is beyond corny. The cliffhanger ending is more annoying than suspenseful. I have full faith that everyone will be okay!

Fresh Catch:

No new books this week… but I found out via email that I won not one, but two Goodreads giveaways! I’m looking forward to my copies of both books.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

The Last Devil to Die (Thursday Murder Club, #4) by Richard Osman: I’m just starting today — right in time for my flight tomorrow! A nice long plane ride feels like the perfect opportunity to enjoy the next book in this entertaining series.

Now playing via audiobook:

I don’t really have time to start something before my trip, and I probably won’t do any audiobook listening before I get back next weekend. I haven’t really settled on what I’ll listen to next, but I’m leaning toward one of these:

Ongoing reads:

As of this moment, I’m down to just one long-term reading commitment:

• The Return of the King by J. R. R. Tolkien: My book group’s journey through the LOTR books continues, and the end is in sight. Three chapters left!

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 my husband’s birthday over the weekend, and we had two birthday dinners to celebrate! First, I took him out to one of our favorite little French restaurants for a fancy-ish romantic dinner, and then two nights later, we did a group outing with our local adult kids and a few friends at a yummy Burmese restaurant, where we basically ate everything in sight. We finished off with an amazing cake that I somehow managed to sneak in without my husband noticing. All in all, lots of fun (and great food) celebrating a fantastic human!

In pop culture / entertainment news, it was a sad week for Buffy fans. First, Hulu pulled the plug on the eagerly anticipated Buffy reboot. Second, and more heartbreaking, actor Nicholas Brendon, who played Xander throughout the seven seasons of Buffy, passed away over the weekend at age 54. I never knew this before, but a quick Google search reveals that Nicholas Brendon appeared in 143 of the 144 Buffy episodes (only absent from one episode in season 7, ” Conversations with Dead People”).

On a happier note, Nathan Fillion announced the return of Firefly as an animated series featuring the original cast, which is exciting… although it’s not a done deal yet. Fingers crossed that it really happens!

What did I read during the last week?

One & Only by Maureen Goo: An entertaining audiobook with some terrific family elements, even if I didn’t love the love triangle. My review is here.

Mania by Lionel Shriver: One of the oddest books I’ve ever read! Great material for a book group discussion, even though I can’t say I actually loved this book. My review is here.

Once and Again by Rebecca Serle: This author’s books can be hit-or-miss for me; this one falls in the hit category! My review is here.

Grace & Henry’s Holiday Movie Marathon by Matthew Norman: This sweet audiobook was a lovely listen. Review to follow.

Pop culture & TV:

Project Hail Mary! I went to an early screening at the beginning of the week, and really enjoyed it. It was interesting seeing it with my son, who hasn’t read the book and only knew what to expect from the movie trailers. He really liked it too, and we both thought it was very well done.

Outlander‘s final season continues to be solid and strong. And I love this season’s version of theme song as sung by Annie Lennox!

I’m slowly making my way through the newest season of Virgin River — I just haven’t had time for an outright binge. I have two episodes left in what’s been an okay season so far.

Fresh Catch:

No new books this week… but I did get a nice little surprise in the mail. A while back, I entered a giveaway through Lisa See’s website, and while I didn’t win the grand prize, apparently I was one of 100 runner-up winners! Here’s what I got:

Can’t wait for her new book, Daughters of the Sun and Moon, to be released in June!

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Nobody’s Baby (Dorothy Gentleman, #2) by Olivia Waite: My library hold for this novella came in really quickly! Just started last night. I liked the first novella in this series a lot, and this follow-up is off to a good start.

Now playing via audiobook:

And Then There Was You by Sophie Cousens: I just finished a different audiobook by this author a few weeks ago, and when I saw this one available at the library, I couldn’t resist. Just getting started.

Ongoing reads:

As of this moment, I’m down to just one long-term reading commitment:

• The Return of the King by J. R. R. Tolkien: My book group’s journey through the LOTR books continues, and the end is in sight. Four chapters left!

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 weekend plans fell through… but that’s okay! We had gorgeous weather, and a lack of plans gave me time to enjoy the blue skies, nice breezes by the beach, and warm sunshine on my back porch.

What did I read during the last week?

This Book Made Me Think of You by Libby Page: Such a beautiful story! My review is here.

I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith: My Classics Club Spin book! I’m so glad to have gotten a push to finally read this delightful book. My review is here.

Lady Tremaine by Rachel Hochhauser: A spur-of-the-moment library borrow that ended up being a terrific choice! This Cinderella retelling is a powerful look at a mother’s love and sacrifices for her daughters. My review is here.

Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen: My book group’s classic read! I ended our leisurely read through this Jane Austen novel so much. Always a pleasure to share a good book with such a great bunch of readers!

Words of the Week:

I noticed this week how many new-to-me words I came across in the various books I was reading, and thought I’d share a few fun ones here:

• rhodomontade: vain, empty, and boastful speech or bluster
• myrmidon: a follower or subordinate of a powerful person, typically one who is unscrupulous or carries out orders unquestioningly.
• jongleur: a medieval itinerant entertainer proficient in juggling, acrobatics, music, and storytelling
• fontange: a tall head-dress worn in the 17th and 18th centuries
• austringer: a person who keeps, trains, and flies short-winged hawks for hunting
• marmoreal: made of or likened to marble

Pop culture & TV:

I’m enjoying the new (and final) season of Outlander… it’s terrific to be back at Fraser’s Ridge with all these beloved characters!

I’m also loving Shrinking (no big surprise!), and have started the new season of Virgin River, but haven’t had enough viewing time to make it past the first few episodes.

Fresh Catch:

No new books this week.

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

Mania by Lionel Shriver: My book group book for March. Such a strange beginning! I’m only at about 10%… withholding judgment for now.

Now playing via audiobook:

One & Only by Maureen Goo: I ran out of listening time — I’d hoped to finish over the weekend! I’m really enjoying this audiobook, and have about an hour or so to go.

Ongoing reads:

As of this moment, I’m down to just one long-term reading commitment:

• The Return of the King by J. R. R. Tolkien: My book group’s journey through the LOTR books continues, and the end is in sight. Five chapters left!

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 a busy week, with an absolutely gorgeous weekend as a reward! Blue skies, warm weather… just delightful! I squeezed in some long walks and outdoor reading time, and really, what more could I need?

Just for fun:

… and …

What did I read during the last week?

A Town Like Alice by Nevil Shute: A 20th century classic. I loved it! My review is here.

First Sign of Danger (Haven’s Rock, #4) by Kelley Armstrong: This series continues to be amazing! I’m just sad that there’s only going to be one more book. But meanwhile, this newest installment was excellent. My review is here.

A Ghastly Catastrophe (Veronica Speedwell, #10) by Deanna Raybourn: Always a treat to get a new book in this delightfully snarky mystery series. My review is here.

This Book Made Me Think of You by Libby Page: Lovely audiobook. Review to follow.

Pop culture & TV:

I finished Bridgerton season 4 early in the week. All in all, I thought it was pretty great!

The most exciting TV news for me — Outlander is back! The 8th and final season started over the weekend. I watched the first episode of the season last night. It’s so great to be back in that world once again, although it’s sad to think that this is the last season… and I’m also really curious to see how they’ll wrap it all up, considering that the book series hasn’t ended yet.

Fresh Catch:

One new book this week — signed by the author, and with a sheet of stickers included!

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith: It’s about time for me to settle down and start my current Classics Club Spin book. I’ve been meaning to read this book for years now, so it’s great to have an actual deadline as motivation.

Now playing via audiobook:

One & Only by Maureen Goo: I’ve only just started, but it seems like this will be a good one!

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: 90%. Coming up this week: Chapters 29 & 30.
• 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): 78%.

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.

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…

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.

This past weekend was busy, in all sorts of awesome ways.

On Friday, we had a family dinner out at a new-to-me restaurant that had a great ambience and delicious food. (House-made churros for dessert – yum!). Saturday, we started with the bar mitzvah of the son of a very dear friend, then had a really fun dance event that evening. And yesterday, the weather finally cleared and I was able to squeeze in some reading on the back porch plus an outdoor dance session.

What did I read during the last week?

Cold as Hell (Haven’s Rock, #3) by Kelley Armstrong: Terrific addition to a favorite series! Each book is just so good. My review is here.

Where The Girls Were by Kate Schatz: Powerful historical fiction set in 1968 San Francisco. Stay tuned — I’ll be sharing a review later this week.

Pop culture & TV:

I finished season 4 of The Morning Show this past week, which means I’m all caught up. This past season was bananas! Not exactly believable… but still, I’ll be back for more whenever a new season is ready.

Fresh Catch:

No new books this week, but I finally decided to upgrade from my wired headphones. After a bunch of research, I decided on the Shokz OpenFit 2 earbuds. I’ve only had them for a day at this point, but my first outing with them, listening to an audiobook, was a good experience. I just need to adjust to the various controls. I’d been looking for earbuds that sit over/outside the ear, and so far, I like the fit.

Find on Amazon: https://amzn.to/46PBEkK

What will I be reading during the coming week?

Currently in my hands:

A Town Like Alice by Nevil Shute: My book group’s book for February! I read this book a long, long time ago, and I’m happy to have a reason to revisit it.

Now playing via audiobook:

Is She Really Going Out with Him? by Sophie Cousens: It’s been a mostly rainy week… which really limited my audiobook time, since I tend to do most of my listening while out for long walks. I still have a few more hours to go with this audiobook. Really fun so far!

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: 77%. Coming up this week: Chapters 25 & 26.
• 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): 75%.
• 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…