Tag: Freida McFadden

Monthly Wrap-Up – February 2026

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***Today’s monthly-wrap-up contains an affiliate link to Amazon if you wish to purchase the book. If you follow this link, I will earn a small commission from that purchase at no cost to you. 

If you wish to obtain a copy of the book based on this review, I would really appreciate you following this link and showing my content some support by making your purchase***

As of the end of February and this monthly wrap-up post, I am four books ahead of schedule in my Goodreads Challenge for the year to read 60 books in 2026. With seven titles added to my completed list in February, it’s fair to say I’ve had a successful month! 

Compared to my monthly TBR for February, I pretty much got to the end of my reading list for the month with one current read I’m carrying forward into March. I did think I would complete this list this month. However, with a busy work week mid-month taking on a project from a colleague, I didn’t have much headroom to read in my free time for a few days and that did impact my overall progress.

Nevertheless, still managed to pull it out the bag. Two blog tour obligations helped to keep momentum going, and they were both highly-rated reads as well. It always helps when the book you pick up are well received! 

Let’s take a look at where I got to! 

 

Books Read 

After the Forest 

Amazon Purchase Link 

At the end of my January wrap up, I shared that I was part way through after the forest by Kell Woods. I really enjoyed this dark fantasy overlap with a fairytale retailing. The darker tones of the book featuring witchcraft, war and discrimination, combined with the lighter and more familiar base of the fairytale Hansel and Gretel made for an interesting combination.

There is also a romance element to the storyline of this book. Whilst it wasn’t something I actively rooted for (it’s just not my thing, okay?), It was okay to read and didn’t detract from the narrative all my experience of it. It was refreshing to pick up something different, which has been a feature of almost every book I’ve picked up alongside the Cottagecore Fantasy Book Club.

 

Dreams From My Father

Amazon Purchase Link 

When I published last month monthly wrap up, I had a really only just started Dreams From My Father by Barack Obama. Needless to say, it was one of my first finishes in February. Having read A Promised Land a year before, it wasn’t really a surprise that I enjoyed Dreams From My Father. 

Whilst this type of writing and subject is enjoyed as an exception rather than the rule, I really like Barack Obama. He’s the only political figure from whom I think I will ever read a book. Or two, as it turns out! 

Dreams From My Father is about Barack’s exploration of his heritage and identity via his race. He had an unusual upbringing and being of mixed-race ethnicity in a society where there weren’t very many kids like him, he struggled with understanding who he was. Dreams From My Father is all about exploring this, and seeing how Barack matures. 

 

Grace

Amazon Purchase Link 

He wouldn’t necessarily describe February as the month to read horror. Nevertheless, I had the pleasure of reading and featuring Grace on my blog by taking part in the publication blog tour this month. What attractive my attention to grace was that the event of the book are set relatively close to Home. Set on a remote island of the West Coast of Island, Croaghnakeela is as miserable and desolate as the worst British weather can make you feel. 

Combined mythology and supernatural and you can get an idea or feel for this book. I loved the links to Irish and Celtic mythology, and I even found out through my research when writing this review that there are somewhat ties to more local mythology in these figures. If you want to find out more about this book, I shared my full thoughts on Grace in my blog tour review.

 

An Offer From a Gentleman

Amazon Purchase Link 

Doing a complete 180° once again, after finishing Grace, I listened to an audiobook copy of an offer from a gentleman from Julia Quinn. I picked this book up on a whim. I’m currently watching season four of Bridgerton on Netflix. Having started this series on telly, I decided to give this third instrument of the books ago. Doing so was a little bit of a risk. Whilst I read the Duke and I and the experience was okay, I didn’t like book two, Anthony and Kate’s story. So much so, I DNF’d it. 

However, I was able to borrow a copy of the audiobook from my library. So, I thought what the hell?

And you know what ended up better than I thought given protagonist from a very different societal background class, I found her more relatable characters in the series. Whilst Benedict is still somewhat insufferable in his behaviour at the beginning, I think persevering was worth the while. My experience an offer for a gentleman was marginally better than the first instalment the Duke and I. Being I’m not a big romance reader, it was always going to be a hard push to get a five star rating. 

It hasn’t put me off trying the fourth book, which is Colin and Penelope’s story however. 

 

Blues for an Alabama Sky

Amazon Purchase Link 

For the first time ever this month, I read a play in the form of Blues for an Alabama Sky. I picked up this book for our work book club, as it also has a romance element to the story. 

However, in the 104 page count, this book covers far more than just a basic romance. Set in depression era America, the book follows the story of Angel and her dreams of getting out of Harlem New York. She meets a man she thinks could be the love of her life. However, throughout the book we see a number of personal differences come to the fore and challenge the relationship.

Blues for an Alabama sky was a very quick read, and I enjoyed the difficult topics that were touched upon in the narrative. It was also really enjoyable to pick up a book in a different format! 

 

The Three Witches

Amazon Purchase Link 

My second blog tour obligation, which landed right at the beginning of March, was for a book called The Three Witches by Elena Collins. I ended up picking up and completing this read pretty quickly because I had the deadline to review. However, The Three Witches was very readable. I loved the angle of the narrative and the attempt to honour historical events as closely as possible. Not only that, but also in trying to give persecuted women their voices back and highlight the true lives of women accused of witchcraft. 

If you’re interested in a historical fiction aimed at telling the real stories of women in a dual timeline mystery, go and read my review of The Three Witches. 

 

Dear Debbie

Amazon Purchase Link 

In a recent YouTube video, I shared some highly anticipated 2026 releases. The first of these books is Dear Debbie, which was released in January. 

It isn’t a surprise I loved this audiobook! I read Freida’s The Housemaid series in this format. Given it worked well for me, I stuck and it paid off. Not that I think reading traditionally would hamper my enjoyment, because i don’t. In order to get through all my reads, I have to pick some up in audio and I know these are easy, engaging listens. 

The twist at the end of this book took me by my surprise. In a way, it shouldn’t have. However, it was very cleverly written and the storyline pulled off well. 

 

Throne of Glass

Amazon Purchase Link

Finally, the one book left that I’m currently reading as if this monthly wrap-up is Throne of Glass. This is a readalong series I’ve started, and I was also reading this towards the romance-themed book club. 

Because of my blog tour obligations, Throne of Glass took a backseat. As of the end of February, I was 26% into the book. I’ve read a little more since then, and it’s going down well so far… 

I went into this book with a preconception that I may not enjoy this one. However, the romance element of the book isn’t overtaking the events of the plot and the world-building behind it. So far, so good! 

 

Summary 

February was a successful month by all accounts. No DNF’s to report, which is great news, and seven competed reads in the shortest month of the year is a win. 

How many books have you picked up in February? Have you read any of the books in today’s monthly wrap-up post, or added any to your reading list as a result of today’s monthly wrap-up? 

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Sunday Summary – 1st March 2026

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Today’s Sunday Summary comes at the end of another busy week. Well, not quite. Technically, it’s landing right at the start of another one, but that’s intentional. Thankfully, I’ve gotten somewhat more comfortable with everything I’m juggling at work, so I’m pleased to share reading is back on track! And it’s a good job too, especially considering today’s reading and review obligation.

Content-wise, I’ve been quiet on YouTube this week as I didn’t get a chance to record last week. However, things are back to normal now! 

Blog content went out as normal. My first post of the week went live on Thursday, and it was my review of the finale of Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn series, The Lost Metal. I can only hope I’ve done the book justice. It’s a tough one to review. It’s a huge series that’s intimidating to review at the best of times. However, being the final instalment, the pressure was ON!

My First Lines Friday featured an upcoming read on my March TBR. I want to pick this up and read it towards the Tale Spinners reading prompt in the Goodreads Winter Challenge. Also, this book is on my fixed reading list for 2026, so win-win! 

Then, Sunday morning my review of The Three Sisters went live. This blog tour obligation was a delight to read and I’ve enjoyed sharing my thoughts on this book! It’s for this reason my Sunday Summary is going live at a minute past midnight on Monday morning… 

 

Books Read

Dear Debbie

After only touching on Dear Debbie briefly last week, I’m pleased to share I got much further with the audiobook this week. In fact, I finished it earlier today! 

Over the course of the week, I’ve listened to around 5 hours of audio – an amazing improvement on the week before if not exactly groundbreaking. Not like it was hard… Dear Debbie is a really engaging listen and the twist at the end was something else. Not that I should have been surprised having read and loved the Housemaid series. 

It makes a change for me to read such a new release. And, I’m looking forward to sharing what I think about it in more detail in the near future. 

 

Throne of Glass

In last week’s Sunday Summary update, I shared that I’d only read a handful of pages of Throne of Glass. This is the only book on today’s Sunday Summary for which the update is similar. However, I plan to change that once this post is scheduled. 

Hopefully I can squeeze in a few more chapters before bed. Regardless of whether I do or don’t, finishing Throne of Glass is now top of my list; it’s my only carryover from February left. If the books continues in the way it’s started, it’s also surprisingly easy to read. Let’s hope for some quick progress, because then I am back on track to move on to the sequel which I’ve scheduled to read in March. 

 

Blues for an Alabama Sky

A relatively quick read I devoured in a couple of evenings is a play, Blues for an Alabama Sky. I’ve read plays before, but not for leisure. Rather, I’ve read them as part of my theatre studies at school. However, this week marked a first in picking up a play as a new format of book to read. It went down pretty well actually! At just over 100 pages, it wasn’t exactly a long read. 

Even so, the book discusses a number of societal issues present in depression era New York within the short page count. That’s in part why I wanted to read it. Yes, the book worked for my book club prompt as the main protagonist is involved in a whirlwind romance of sorts. However, with these societal issues plaguing the characters, there was more to the story than the romance, if you know what I mean. 

The book club meet was scheduled for Wednesday, so you can see why Throne of Glass was put on the back-burner. 

 

The Three Witches

Even after I read Blues for an Alabama Sky for book club, Throne of Glass still didn’t stand a chance as the next priority was to read and review The Three Sisters by Sunday. With just a few days (and a Saturday night out with my girl friends planned) that didn’t leave a massive window of opportunity. It’s good job I thrive on a deadline! 

With a relatively free Saturday afternoon, and a slightly late night after watching Guys and Dolls, I finished The Three Sisters in time to review the book yesterday (Sunday). I loved this historical novel and how it tried to stay as true to the history that inspired it. Not only that, but the narrative was determined to give back the lost voices of the women falsely accused of witchcraft and murdered by emphasising their place as normal women in society. Often, they were those that gave most to communities as healers, midwives and wise women. 

I’ve already shared my detailed thoughts on the book, so here’s a link to my full review in case this has piqued your interest. 

 

Books Discovered

I’ve added quite a few books to my TBR lately. I’ve read 13 books, but I’ve added an identical number to my reading list as well. So, I’ve not improved the size of the list any. 

And, a recommendation this week for the The Freedom Writers Diary makes another addition. I haven’t purchased any copies yet. It may just be payday, but I’ll wait until nearer the time to find a copy, either at my library if possible or from somewhere else. This addition is a recommendation from a colleague, Nanda. She has either read this book before or watched the TV documentary – I can’t recall which. Either way, she was telling me about it and the way this teacher gave her all to give disadvantaged students a fighting chance when everyone else had given up on them. 

 

Coming Up… 

Blog

Staring early next week, my first post will be my monthly wrap-up for February. With seven books completed by the end of the month, and a carryover, there’s lots to discuss in terms of reading progress. If you want a recap of how I got in compared to my February TBR, stay tuned and I’ll take you through the deets on Tuesday. 

On Thursday, I’ll give you the lowdown on my March TBR. I’ve already shared a lot of what I’m reading in my 2026 Goodreads Winter Challenge video on YouTube. However, there are a couple of changes to that list, as well as some other reading obligations I’ve signed up for on top of that. March is going to be no less restful, although thankfully I do have a week of work coming up. Hopefully I can squeeze a bit more reading into that week to make the ambitious TBR possible… 

On Friday, I’ll share my usual Shelf Control feature. In this post, I’ll return to an author I discovered thanks to a blog tour. The previous book of theirs I read got a 5* rating from me. This more recent book is a spy/espionage style narrative, so a bit different from what I’ver read lately. Tune in on Friday to find out more! 

 

YouTube

With some free time earlier today, I prepared and recorded my monthly wrap-up for February. So, whilst I’m posting a written version on my blog, if you prefer video/audio content, that will be going live on Tuesday evening on YouTube. 

Then, later in the week I’ve also got my monthly TBR video. This one is recorded and edited; not really sure why I edited this one first, but there we go! It’s not a big deal, and thankfully it means drafting my written version of the post will be a lot easier as I’ve planned it out a little more in advance than I would usually. 

 

Summary 

This Sunday Summary has plenty for you regardless of your reading tastes. Have you read any of the books featured in this Sunday Summary? 

Now, my remaining plans for the night are to get showered, read a little Throne of Glass and then retire. For the night. Sadly I can’t retire full stop and spend all my days reading… 

Never mind, there’s a EuroMillions draw on Tuesday. Who knows, I may get lucky. 

Right! 😂 I’m more likely to see the end of my TBR

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Sunday Summary – 22nd February 2026

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Another week’s end can only mean it’s time for my Sunday Summary update. It’s been a weird one, as it’s felt a little hands off. I’ve still published my usual content, but a lot of it was prepared in advance. The exception to this rule was my Top Ten Tuesday post. If you’re an armchair traveller and like to read from a variety of settings, this post is one for you to check out! 

My Shelf Control intended for a couple of weeks ago finally went live this week. As I drafted it a couple of weeks ago but forgot to publish it, it’s fair to say I didn’t need to do much to get it out in the world… 

On YouTube, I shared my review of Notes on a Nervous Planet and a recommendation video for Game of Thrones fans. I’d recorded and prepped these videos by Monday last week, so I haven’t done a whole lot on YouTube content since then…   

 

Books Read

An Offer From a Gentleman

In last week’s Sunday Summary I was 36% into the audio of An Offer From a Gentleman. 

With a week left to listen to this audiobook, it was my priority to finish. And, I’m pleased to share I did! I confess, I wasn’t sure if I’d stick this out. I don’t have the best track record with the novels in this series. Whilst it wasn’t a showstopper and I enjoyed it as much as I thought I would, I’m pleased I made it to the end without DNF’ing. 

It wasn’t a sure thing… it wouldn’t be the first book of the series I’ve put down prematurely. 

 

Dear Debbie

I returned to Dear Debbie after finishing An Offer From a Gentleman. That was pretty late this week, so I’ve only listened to this audio a fraction over 20mins. 

Naturally, though, with no other audiobook commitments now I’ll be back on this one full force. Dear Debbie isn’t a long audio, so I’m sure I’ll have this cracked in the next week for sure! 

 

Throne of Glass

I confess I’ve only read a handful of pages of Throne of Glass this week. I’ve not physically read much in the way of books full stop. It’s no reflection on the book, but rather because I’ve been juggling a lot of stuff at work this week. By the time I’m home and ready to enjoy some downtime, I’ve turned to easier hobbies on the brain, like my Rivendell cross-stitch. 

Hopefully more to share on this one soon – book club is fast approaching! With this in mind, the plan is to read as much as I can this evening once this Sunday Summary is live! 

 

Books Discovered

It’s a good job I didn’t promise no more bookish additions in last week’s Sunday Summary. I was found well, until the other half and some friends suggested I go for a ‘look’ in Waterstones this morning. 

Ha, who do they think I am?! Of course I got a couple! The good news is I got them with accumulated points on my loyalty card, so they didn’t cost me anything… 

The books I got were A Mother’s Promise (a WW2 Auschwitz story) and River Kings – about Vikings from Scandinavia to the Silk Road routes. It’s not often to read about the latter, and well, I’m curious! 

 

Coming Up… 

Blog

I’ve got a full week lined up for you, and I’m excited! Kicking off next week, I’m sharing my review of Brandon Sanderson’s The Lost Metal. I loved this series hard and I was both delighted and devastated to get to the end. I’ve been a bit wistful about starting The Way of Kings again lately. Maybe featuring Sanderson and another great series will kick me up the butt.

On Friday, I’ve got a First Lines Friday teed up. Given I’ve got some other bookish priorities on next week, I’m not challenging myself this time. I may need all the reading time I can get 😅

On Sunday, I’ll be publishing a blog tour review of The Three Witches. It’s the last of my bookish commitments this week, but a hard deadline and I’ve yet to start the book… 

Then, my usual Sunday Summary will go live at 00:01 on Monday morning so the blog tour post has its full day and my weekly update isn’t too delayed 😉

 

YouTube

I haven’t recorded anything for YouTube yet, which is unusual for me. However, I’ve had a little more on this weekend than usual. I’ll probably try to get some content recorded tomorrow night so it’s business as usual. 

The plan, because I have a plan at least, is to film a Meet the BookTuber video. Now I’ve got a few vids under my belt and established my content niche, I want to introduce the myself properly! 

Later in the week, I’m curating a list of books I’ve added to my reading list recently that I really think you need too! 

 

Summary 

Now, I’m off to try and make some more progress with Throne of Glass. Book bloggers kind of need to read books now and then, after all….

What are you reading this weekend? 

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Sunday Summary – 15th February 2026

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Today’s Sunday Summary comes after a busy week. Both work and blog deadlines took their toll, so I’ve deliberately enjoyed a more relaxed weekend! 

Early in the week, I started off my blog with a post about books that inspired me to pick up another read. These are less obvious choices rather than sequels to series ands the like. I’ve got three books and what they inspired me to read next if you’re interested. Next, my deadline for reviewing Grace fell on Thursday. It was a pleasure to review this horror novel and launch the tour on a very positive note 😊

Over on YouTube, I published a review of my first 5* read of the year, Yellowface by R.F. Kuang. Later in the week, details of the Goodreads Winter Challenge I’m looking to complete before 31st March! It’s the first time I’m pushing myself to complete one of these. However, with five of twelve achievements under my belt, there’s no reason I can’t achieve it.. .

The Shelf Control that stayed in drafts last week by accident also didn’t get published this week, but for an entirely different reason. All I have to do is make it live and share the link. However, I unfortunately had to work overtime on Friday and didn’t finish until quite late. After a busy week and then that on top, I decided to just let that post roll to next week. You understand, yes? 

 

Books Read

Dreams from my Father

When I shared last week’s Sunday Summary, I disclosed I had just over 3 hours left of the audiobook of Dreams from my Father to go. Admittedly I finished this on Monday this week. Having enjoyed the audiobook to date, I was keen to reach the conclusion and that shows in how I devoured the last part of the book. 

Dreams from my Father lived up to my expectations. After reading and being pleasantly surprised my A Promised Land, I was excited to delve more into Barack’s personal history and story. It did not disappoint. The book is insightful and somewhat emphasises his priorities as a person and why he stands for the things he does. I had no idea he had lived in Indonesia for a stretch of his childhood, or the path that could have taken him away from the life he lived as we know it. 

Very interesting book – I’m glad I read it! 

 

Grace

Another finish on Monday was Grace by A.M. Shine. This shouldn’t come as a surprise, as I needed to prioritise this to share my review on Thursday. 

This horror was totally atmospheric and I loved the small town, dark and supernatural tale. It was twistier than I expected! A fun read, a different read, and one I’d recommend to all fans of the genre. If you want to find out more, my review is live and ready to read here should you want to take a look. Pretty please? 😅

 

Dear Debbie

My planned audiobook listen, which I’ve picked up earlier in the week is Dear Debbie. 

Having enjoyed the Housemaid series in audiobook format, it made sense to me to read this one in the same way! Also, as I have a number of physical and digital books to read this month, it helped the book fit into my schedule. 

I’ve enjoyed the start of this books far, through I wouldn’t call that a surprise. The sarcasm the protagonist shined through in her Dear Debbie column. I love it, and can’t wait to listen on how the story progresses. I’m putting a small pause on it, because I need to prioritise a library loan listen I picked up opportunistically… 

 

An Offer From a Gentleman

A spur of the moment listen is Julia Quinn’s An Offer From a Gentleman. You may recall I read The Duke and I and DNF’d The Viscount Who Loved Me. After that DNF, I didn’t think I would continue with the series. However, with Bridgerton back on Netflix, I decided to listen to this as I watched the show. I’ve overtaken the series already, having only watched the first episode and most of the second. However, I’m doing alright with this audiobook so far… 

I’ve just extended my loan as the audiobook was due to return on Tuesday. Whilst I managed to listen to over a third of this audiobook yesterday (36%), I’m not going to get a solid opportunity to listen like that before Tuesday. I’ve extended a week, so I can hopefully listen whilst commuting and maybe at the gym throughout the week and finish it next Saturday. 

For a person who doesn’t love romance, I’m not doing bad right now. It goes to show I can read the genre when I put my mind to it… 

 

Throne of Glass

My final read of the week also pushes me out of my comfort zone. I’ve never read Sarah J Maas before. However, I’ll wax lyrical about my being a diverse reader and picking up a variety of books, so why not?! I’m actually reading this for book club later this month. It’s one of two reads I’m picking up to discuss in this month’s club, but this is the book I have a copy of right now. The other is on order 😊

So far, I confess to being pleasantly surprised by Throne of Glass. I’ll hold my hands up and admit I’ve gone into the book with a big question mark over whether I’ll like it. However, as of this Sunday Summary I’m 26% into the book and actually enjoying it! 

I’ve not hit any of the romance aspect of the book yet, although I have my suspicion as to who it’ll be with. Otherwise through, Throne of Glass is proving quite readable and I’m keen to progress with this one to give more of an update in next week’s Sunday Summary. 

 

Books Discovered

The last few weeks I’ve been trickling books onto the TBR. I figured I needed to give it a rest, otherwise this list of mine is never going to go down! 

No new books this week… but I make no promises for next 😅📚

 

Coming Up… 

Blog

My blogging adventures next week begin with a Top Ten Tuesday post. This week’s topic is ‘Books for Armchair Travellers’. I suspect my version of this topic will weigh a little heavy in historical fiction books, but I will of course try to diversify with genres as best I can. 

The infamously late Shelf Control post will go live next week, even if I have to schedule it in advance! I might do that actually, so then there is LITERALLY. NO. EXCUSE. 

Then, of course, we all know I’ll round up my latest reading updates in another Sunday Summary. Same time next week. Set your watches. 

 

YouTube

I’ve got two long-form videos lined up, as well as some shorts and other social media content planned. The first of those two videos is my next book review from my 2026 January TBR (Notes on a Nervous Planet). Later in the week, I’ve got some book recommendations for Game of Thrones fans looking for alternative series whilst we wait for George R.R. Martin’s next instalment! 

That’s plenty to update you with in this Sunday Summary – I’ll let you get on with the rest of your day, but not before you tell me what you’re currently reading ⏬

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Monthly TBR – February 2026

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***My February 2026 monthly TBR contains an affiliate link to Amazon if you wish to purchase the book. If you follow this link, I will earn a small commission from that purchase at no cost to you. 

If you wish to obtain a copy of the book based on this review, I would really appreciate you following this link and showing my content some support by making your purchase***

—

February’s monthly TBR features seven books, and somehow still manages to leave headroom for a reading challenge I’ll start later this month. I’m ambitious as always! This monthly TBR features two carryovers, two blog tour obligations, two book club reads and one new release I’m hoping to finish this list with. 

Even then, I’m hoping to get to another book or two before the end of the month. The successful start I enjoyed in January has lit a fire under my … well, you know. I’m keen to keep up the momentum! February may be the shorter month of the year, but I don’t want it to be my least successful. 

Let’s dive into my planned reads on this monthly TBR. 

 

Fixed Reads 

After the Forest

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

Last month I planned to read After the Forest by Kell Woods as part of the Cottagecore Fantasy book club run by cozysabie. Whilst that did happen to an extent, I didn’t get to finish the book before the end of the month. 

With that in mind, After the Forest is my priority finish given its my current read as of the beginning of February. In my January wrap-up post, I shared progress to the tune of 40% of the book. As of writing this monthly TBR I’m already further along (60%) and looking to mark this as a finish within a few days tops. 

 

Grace

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

Next, I’ve got a blog tour commitment for the 12th February, so that needs to be my next read. Compared to the fairytale retelling (with some darker themes) that is After the Forest, this gothic horror with Irish mythology is likely to feel very different… 

I’m excited though! I’ve not read horror for a while. Also, I don’t think I’ve ever read around the topic of Irish mythology. I like the idea – in fact, its the reason I wanted to try the book. Here’s hoping I enjoy it and I can persuade you to read it in my upcoming review next Thursday! 

 

The Three Witches

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

Another blog tour commitment, although thankfully not until 1st March, is to review The Three Witches. This book is a historical fiction novel based around the three witch characters from Shakespeare’s Macbeth. I don’t know a lot about this book other than the spirits of these characters pop up repeatedly over the course of history – its a timeslip narrative. 

This multi-perspective, multi-storyline book caught my attention and I can’t wait to read it and share my thoughts in the coming weeks!

 

Dreams from my Father

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

Last month, after DNF’ing The Doors of Midnight and finishing The Great Passage, I picked up Dreams from my Father. I wanted to pick up this audiobook after enjoying A Promised Land last year. I was pleasantly surprised by that audiobook – it turned out to be one of my favourite reads of 2025.

The focus of Dreams from my Father is a little different. Instead of being about Barack’s presidency and his political aims, Dreams from my Father is instead about exploring his heritage and discovering his identity. 

So far, I’ve listened to a couple of hours of this audiobook and I’m keen to continue with it and see where it goes.

 

Throne of Glass

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

I announced yesterday that I’m hosting a readalong for Sarah J Maas’ Throne of Glass series. I’ve never tried any of her books before. However, in an effort to try some more mainstream books and make content about them, I’ve chosen to read this series over the next seven months. 

Throne of Glass may well push me out of my comfort zone. That’s not a bad thing though. Even if the book and series doesn’t end up being a favourite, I’m sure I have a lot to gain from giving it a go. I’m looking forward to chatting with you about these books as well. If you wish, join my readalongs on Fable and/or StoryGraph and I’ll post updates on my progress on YouTube. Stay tuned! 

 

Blues for an Alabama Sky

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

I run a book club at work, and I’ve set a theme of Love in All Its Forms for our February meet. 

Towards this theme, I’m hoping to read two books this month. The first coincides with my Throne of Glass readalong – it has significant romantic sub-plots after all, so it works. I’m also hoping my reading this one will relate to some different readers amongst my colleagues. Generally, I don’t read a lot of romance. 

However, the second book I’m planning to read also has a romantic relationship at the heart of its story. It’s also a little more ‘academic’ in nature in that this book is on modern school syllabuses. Whereas I are up reading Of Mice and Men, this is a new take on Depression era America. It’s also a good pick for reading around Black History Month. Win-win!

 

Mood Reads

Dear Debbie

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

If I get to the end Dreams from my Father, and there is no reason I shouldn’t, then I’m picking up a 2026 Highly Anticipated Release I shared in a recent YouTue video. Freida McFadden recently released Dear Debbie. With my intentions to feature more topical, current new releases on my mind, I want to read Dear Debbie now. That way, I can share my review on this book whilst its still a hot topic on people’s minds, and maybe encourage you to read this one too. 

All being well and if I enjoy this one as much as I expect, I’ll then be turning to Freida McFadden’s backlist. 

 

Summary 

My official February TBR has a healthy number of books on the list. Stats fans – I’ve got 1,400 pages and 17hrs 40mins on today’s list.

The size of the books on this monthly TBR should give me time towards the end of the month to pick ups some different reads. I have a bit of a reading challenge in mind to take into March. In my 2025 wrap-up post I shared an update on a resolution that didn’t get much focus in 2025. Whilst I’m not planning to revive this goal (I didn’t set it in my 2026 resolutions post), I’m thinking as a one-off I’d like to have a stab at completing the Goodreads Winter Challenge. 

That needs me to read a selection of books not on this list, but I’m no less looking forward to. Not all of the challenges have been revealed. One remains a mystery, but I’ve chosen a reading list that ticks the boxes of all challenge but the last unrevealed challenge. For that one, I’ve planned a read I think will fit the prompt but if nothing else, features on my fixed TBR for 2026. It won’t be a wasted effort in any case! 

So, that’s my February TBR. Have you read any books I feature on this list? Does anything catch your eye? 

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Monthly Wrap-Up – December 2025

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Happy New Year friends and welcome to my last monthly wrap-up of 2025! In today’s post I take a look at reading progress in December 2025. In summary, I didn’t touch much of my December TBR. Once my reading obligations were over and I’d completed my Goodreads Reading Challenge, my brain kinda switched off. 

Nevertheless, I have some progress to share and after a slow, steady festive period and end of the month I’m ready to get back into it! 

 

Books Read 

 

Death of a Billionaire 

Early in December I had a blog tour obligation to review Death of a Billionaire by Tucker May. With a number of ongoing books from the end of November, I had to pick up and finish this one pretty quickly. 

One light night and a review later, I safely ticked Death of a Billionaire off the list. It’s a fun, humorous murder mystery and I enjoyed the lighter tone. If you want to take a look at this for yourself, here’s a link to my review. 

 

Empire of the Dawn

A book I made slow progress with in December was Empire of the Dawn. Unfortunately, this book wasn’t working for me as I had hoped. It’s a chunky book, and I think having the limitation of a heavy, hardback copy is the primary reason I struggled to pick this up. 

Unfortunately, I couldn’t get an alternative copy of this book to carry on in another format without additional cost. After trying p persevere with it a little longer, I ultimately soft DNF’d it partway through the month. I love the series and where the story is going so far, so I WILL absolutely revisit this one in the near future! 

 

A Crucible of Souls

I wrapped up listening to A Crucible of Souls mid-month after starting the book in November. Overall, I enjoyed this fantasy book and it was a decent recommendation I picked up as part of a ChatGPT recommendations challenge I started a few months ago. 

However, I did finish this book a little disappointed. The book has a lot of detail and an engaging storyline. That said, the book is very light on explanation or backstory on Caldan so we finish the book with as many, if not more questions, than when we started. 

No doubt the rest of the series would catch up with this intel later. I, however, have decided not to continue with it.

 

Beyond Redemption 

The final book I have picked up towards my ChatGPT recommendations challenge is Beyond Redemption. Admittedly, progress on this book was also light in December. 

In total, I made it 15% into the book. I initially started reading it on my phone at the hairdressers during my appointment mid-month. However, I prefer to read digital books on my kindle and don’t get it charged up till much later in the month. Also, I’d hit my lull by this point despite enjoying what I’ve read to date. With my Goodreads Challenge for 2025 exceeded, my brain switched off from reading and turned to craft projects and downtime instead. 

So, Beyond Redemption will be carried forward into January. To get my reading mojo back I’ve started a short read today. Once that’s done though, I’m going to launch into Beyond Redemption full force. I’m excited to see where this grimdark fantasy takes us.

 

The Housemaid is Watching

Where progress with physical and digital books has been on the slow side this December, today’s monthly wrap-up features far better news on audiobook progress! 

After listening to The Housemaid’s Secret last month, I added The Housemaid is Watching to my December TBR as a contribution to completing my 2025 resolution of finishing 10 series. 

Thankfully, listening to The Housemaid is Watching proved as compulsive as its predecessor. I listened to the entirety of this audiobook in just a few days – a complete change from the lethargy that I have to hold my hands up to otherwise in this monthly wrap-up! 

 

The Doors of Midnight 

Another audiobook I made great progress with in December, but inevitably I’m carrying over into January, is The Doors of Midnight by R.R. Virdi. 

I listened to around 10 hours worth of audio in December (at x1.15 speed for this one, so about 8 1/2 hours of actual listening time). However, as of today, 1st January, I still have 35hrs and 8mins (30hrs 30mins at x1.15 speed) to go! This book is over 800 pages long, so I didn’t really expect completion by the end of December. Still, it was an attempt towards my series completion 2025 resolution. I can’t knock myself given I gave it a good go! 

Now that I’m immersed back into Ari’s life and escapades, I’m excited for this carryover to hopefully be one of my first highly-rated completions of 2026. 

 

Summary 

Audiobooks saved the day again! Whilst I expected this monthly wrap-up to be short (given a lack of reading progress in the second half of December), I haven’t got much to complain about. I picked up a good few, even if they didn’t result in a green, shiny tick before 31st December. 

What was your final read of December? Did you meet your 2025 reading resolutions? I’ll be deep-diving into my progress on last year’s reading resolutions in the next day or two. I hope you can stick around for that! ☺️

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Sunday Summary – 21st December 2025

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Happy Sunday, friends! Welcome to my latest Sunday Summary post. Have you had a great week? Are you ready for Christmas yet? This week I’ve done the last of my shopping and wrapping, so I think I’m as ready as I’ll ever be… 

Onto less festive matters, what else have I been up to this week? Well, other than feeling rough and even losing my voice for a couple of days, it’s been business as usual. My first post of the week was a Top Ten Tuesday. This week‘s subject was books on our Winter 2025/2026 TBR. If you’re curious to see what’s coming up on my reading list in the next few months, you could take a look at that post here.

Next, this week’s First Lines Friday post featured a festive read. I managed to meet my challenge of featuring a festive book. And it WAS a challenge for me. I’m not a big festive reader, I found a book that is authentically me whilst meeting the target. Win! 

 

Books Read

The Housemaid is Watching 

With everything going on this week, audiobooks still prevail as my most read format. Funny really. Usually they’re the bottom of the list… 

Nevertheless, it’s been really working out for me this week. Although I’ve not read as much overall this week, I did finish my listen of The Housemaid is Watching by Freida McFadden earlier today.

I enjoyed this (unexpected) conclusion to the series, and I’m glad I decided to pick up more than just the first book. It was a really interesting listen, as always, because the pacing has us asking questions right until the end. However, whilst everything is drawn out nicely, all the questions we do have from this book are answered. I’d have been frustrated if they weren’t, but no concerns on that front! 

 

The Doors of Midnight 

After finishing The Housemaid is Watching, I made a start with The Doors of Midnight by R. R. Virdi this afternoon.

I’m only really so far into this book, so there isn’t a whole lot I can say right now. What I can say is that the first few chapters I’ve listened to have helped me get back into the story somewhat. I really enjoy the narrative style of this book, and enjoying it in audio format as opposed to paperback format is a refreshing change. I enjoy reading it in physical format as well, don’t get me wrong. However, the book is about a storyteller telling his own life story. Listening seems to work a little better.

More on this one next week. It’s a tome, so I’m sure The Doors of Midnight will span a few Sunday Summary posts yet. 

 

Books Discovered

In last week’s Sunday Summary post, I assured you I had been good and not added any new books to my reading list because Santa is on his way. Well, that is true than ever. However, I have added a book to my reading list this week. Don’t worry though, it’s one coming out next year!

When writing my First Lines Friday post, I discovered that my featured book has a sequel coming out next year. Having already enjoyed the first book of the series to date, it’s pretty obvious I’m going to want to continue this one. I’ve got a bit of a wait. The Silent Appeal is due out in September next year. Whilst my bank account remains untouched for now, I’ve added this book to the list to make sure I pick it up at a later date.

 

Coming Up… 

So, what’s coming up next week?

Well, with Christmas upon us and a busy New Year imminent, I’ve decided to take a break for a few days next week. 

I’ll be back with my Sunday Summary update at the end of the week. Until then, though, I’m going to take the time to enjoy some of the festive period, catch up on some reading, and enjoy the downtime. 

I’ll still be active on social media, so stay tuned to see more of my content there. 

What are you currently reading? 

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Sunday Summary – 14th December 2025

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Last week’s Sunday Summary post came to you from a wet and miserable day. Today isn’t any different. With yet another warning for rain in place, winter has truly taken hold. Not only that, but the winter lurgy is also doing the rounds, and it’s officially my turn. Please bear with me for this post. It may not be my best, but it will be the weekly update you expect!

So, what have I been up to? My first post of the week was a book review for Brandon Sanderson‘s second book in his Skyward series, Starsight. I really enjoyed this young adult series, so it was a pleasure to feature the second book and let you know just how much I enjoyed it.

On Friday, I featured a thriller on my TBR. I would not like to be in the shoes of the victims. Deprived of their senses, victims return to society mentally scarred by their experiences. Interested in hearing more about this book? Take a look at my Shelf Control post using this link.

 

Books Read

 

Empire of the Dawn 

I’m struggling to read Empire of the Dawn, and I don’t understand why.

This is the third week in a row in which I have very little reading progress to update you on. At this point, I’m putting this book down for now and trying again later in the month.

I don’t understand why this book isn’t doing it for me right now. I am enjoying it as when I’m reading it, the problem is I’m just not really picking it up to read it! Sometimes having a heavy physical hardback can be a bit off-putting. However, the reason I think I’m struggling with this book the most is that I don’t want to finish the book (and the series) yet. 

It’s silly, I know. However, for the sake of keeping up with reading progress, I’m going to put this down temporarily and pick up another physical read for now. 

 

A Crucible of Souls

In last week’s Sunday Summary, I had already listened to the vast majority of A Crucible of Souls. With just a short way left to go in the book, I finished this audio this week.

If I’m honest, the book didn’t quite live up to my expectations. I had hoped we will find out more about Caldan and his past. Instead, I finished this first book of the series knowing as much about him as I did at the beginning. A bit disappointing to say the least, because this book leaves a lot of questions unanswered. 

I don’t feel so strongly about this book to continue with the series. It was unacceptable lesson, but I wouldn’t say it was really engaging either. That’s just my experience, and a lot of people are of differing opinions. Don’t take mine as gospel if you want to try this on yourselves. 

 

The Housemaid is Watching 

Audiobooks have been a lot easier for me this weekend. I like to listen to them when I’m busy plotting along with household chores and the lake. However, I’ve also turned to audiobooks today because they are easier to listen to then they are to read physically. 

Over the course of this weekend, I’ve listened to over six hours of audio. In terms of p The Housemaid is Watching, I’m currently at around 60% as of this Sunday Summary update. As I found with each of the books in this series, they are pretty easy to listen to. The narrative is engaging and the plot keeps you gripped. What is happening, and are events as they are portrayed as they seem to be? Very often with these books, the answer is no. Whether that is the same for The Housemaid is Watching remains to be seen.

 

Beyond Redemption 

It barely feels worth a mention, but I have started Beyond Redemption this weekend. I initially started the book at the hairdressers yesterday, but given my decision to pause Empire of the Dawn, I’ve read a little more of this book tonight. I’m really intrigued by The narrative and emphasis on delusions shaping reality. 

It sounds like it’s going to be a very dark book, but I’m looking forward to seeing where this takes us. It’s specifically what I asked ChatGPT for in the final prompt I asked, so I hope it lives up to expectation. 

 

Books Discovered

Once again, I’ve behaved and not added any new books to the TBR, or purchased anything, this week. Well, Santa is nearly here right…?

 

Coming Up… 

My first blog post due next week will arrive in your inbox on Tuesday. A regular post I like to feature on this blog is a Top Ten Tuesday. I’ve also done this theme before. Once a quarter, one of the topics is about books on your next seasonal TBR. In this case, I’ll share which books are on my winter 2025/2026 TBR in a couple of days time. 

My next post is also a regular feature, although this week I am setting myself a festive challenge. For next week’s first lines Friday post, I have to feature something festive. Whether the book itself is festive or is set around Christmas time, anything goes. 

Finally, next week I’m back with my latest Sunday summary catch up. Fingers crossed, I’ll have better physical reading progress to share with you. Hopefully switching up my books will help get reading momentum back on track. I have a lot of books to try and pick up before the end of December, so I’m hoping for a miracle 🤞🏻 

That’s all for me and this Sunday summary update though! What have you read recently? Have you read anything worth recommending, or has a book you recently picked up disappointed you? 

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Monthly TBR – December 2025

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We’re in the final month of 2025, and I have a great list of books to round up the year. As of this monthly TBR, I’ve completed my Goodreads reading challenge. At the beginning the year, I set out to read 45 books this year, and increase of three on the previous year. The great news is I’ve met that target, so there is no numerical target to hit any longer. Instead, this monthly TBR is made up of books to meet my other goals. If you recall, those were: –

  • Get up-to-date or finish 10 series
  • Complete Goodreads Reading Challenges
  • Get out of my comfort zone

From final books of trilogies to books written in unusual dialects, I have a weird and wonderful list of books that make up my last monthly TBR of the year. Shall we take a look at what those are? 

 

Fixed Reads 

 

Empire of the Dawn

Starting off this monthly TBR is my current physical read, Empire pf the Dawn by Jay Kristoff. So far, progress with the book has been a little slow. I’ve not picked it up loads. Partly, I think this is out of fear of finishing the series. However, I’ve also had other bits on, and I know it sounds silly, but keeping up with I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! Has impacted my reading time. I’m not a religious watcher of TV, and especially not live programs. However, this is the one exception I will bend over backwards for. 

Now though, I’ve got a deadline. Of all the goals left to achieve this month, finishing 10 series is highest on my list. That puts Empire of the Dawn and two other books on this list as priority reads this month. Oh, what a shame, never mind… 

Seriously though, I can’t wait to see what happens in this book. The hinted at trials and betrayals will be juicy and emotional, I’m sure… 

 

A Crucible of Souls

Next on this monthly TBR is my current audiobook listen. It makes absolutely no sense to drop this book given it’s one I’ve already started. Whilst reading towards my ChatGPT reading challenge isn’t a goal I set myself this year in my 2025 resolutions post, its a fun piece of content I want to make. Also, I want to know if ChatGPT or other AI can make good recommendations for books if I’m in a slump or stumped on what I want. That, or if I’m looking for an off-the-wall recommendation. 

I’m also playing with recording my thoughts on these books in video format, so watch this space. I’ll likely release these together as one comprehensive post. It’s a trial to see if I can get used to filming and recording myself with a view to publishing for video content in future. So, A crucible of Souls, as well as the final book on this challenge, are on my December TBR so I can release that video in the new year. Maybe. We’ll see how reading progress goes.

As of this monthly TBR, I’m a third of the way into A Crucible of Souls. I’m enjoying the audio so far, so fingers crossed more good progress follows! 

 

After the Forest

If you are a regular reader, you’ll know I help moderate a book club online. The Cottagecore Fantasy Book Club recently changed their format from a traditional to a non-traditional book club. Instead of picking one designated book to read, the club has put together a list of suggestions that meet Cottagecore themes. Even still, books aren’t limited to those that the club has highlighted. If readers have a book on their TBR that meets the criteria, they can pick those up instead and share their thoughts (and hopefully recommendations) in Discord and on the monthly call. 

For my pick, I’m committing to reading After the Forest. It’s a Cottagecore, witchy spin-off of the fairytale Hansel and Gretel, as far as I can tell. It’s a bit different and I’m interested to see how well I like the book in due course. 

 

The Doors of Midnight

The second book on this monthly TBR that will help me complete my goal of finishing series is picking up R.R. Virdi’s The Doors of Midnight. I read and reviewed the first book, The First Binding, a while ago now as part of the publication blog tour with Gollancz. 

Whilst I’m later to the party with this book, I’m looking forward to returning to this complex silk-road inspired fantasy. It’s a chunk at over 800 pages, but not unexpected. The first book could knock someone out if you hit them over the head with it as well! 

On a serious note, I loved the narration style and story of the first book in the series. Reading The Doors of Midnight will bring me up to date, so will be a worthwhile accomlishment if I can finish it before the end of December. 

 

The Housemaid is Watching

The final sequel I’m finishing in December, after listening to A Crucible of Souls, is The Housemaid is Watching. This is the final sequel on this monthly TBR and finishing this book (as well as Empire of the Dawn and The Doors of Midnight) will mean I’ve hit my target finishing or getting up-to-date with 10 series throughout 2025. 

I enjoyed listening to The Housemaid earlier this year and The Housemaid’s Secret last month. It was an impromptu listen in November (see more in my monthly wrap-up for November), but it proved an easy and entertaining listen. Of the sequels on my list, I think it’s the easiest to finish due to its size. The series so far has also been really engaging, and listening to the books is pretty easy as well. It’s engaging, with multiple perspectives unveiling the twists in the story. I can’t wait to finish this one! 

 

Mood Reads 

 

Beyond Redemption 

I didn’t get to Beyond Redemption last month. As I said above, completing my ChatGPT book recommendations challenge isn’t top of my list and therefore this book makes it to the Mood Read list. 

I’ve still got a copy of Beyond Redemption via Kindle Unlimited, ready and waiting for me. It’s the grimdark recommendation I asked ChatGPT for. It’s been a while since I leaned into this sub-genre, and I’m looking forward to getting into it. Last time I read in this genre, I discovered a favourite trilogy. I’m optimistic I’m onto another winner here! 

As I mentioned above, this doesn’t contribute to my 2025 resolutions goals. However, I want to keep up progress with the book for the ChatGPT challenge I started much later. 

 

Yellowface

The last book I read by R.F. Kuang was Babel, and that book was one of my favourite reads that year. As a result, I can’t wait to see if Yellowface is as well received! 

From what I recall of the hype when Yellowface released, I’m confident I’ll enjoy this one. It deals with a morally grey character who steals the literary work of another after a lack of success of her own merit. My understanding is that it also deals with cultural appropriation. It should make sure an entertaining and thought-provoking read! 

Yellowface will help me towards one of the Goodreads Fall Challenges – Fiction Faves. 

 

The Burning Girls

Another Goodreads Fall Challenge is picking up a Spine Tingler. For that challenge, I want to pick up The Burning Girls by C.J. Tudor. 

I’ve enjoyed numerous books by this author to date, including The Chalk Man, The Other People and The Taking of Annie Thorne. It’s a pretty safe bet as thrillers go. With darker nights right now, it’s fun to cozy in at home and read something spooky! 

 

Deep Wheel Orcadia

The final book on this monthly TBR, and on the list as a book ‘out of my comfort zone’, is Deep Wheel Orcadia. This book caught my attention and landed on my TBR as I was intrigued by the idea of a sci-fi book written in Orkney slang. It’s also written in English, so I will actually be able to read it. However, it’s a unique book and idea, and I knew I had to give it a look! 

Deep Wheel Orcadia is a reasonably short read. In a way, it’s the last priority book on this monthly TBR. However, I may choose to call on it if I need a break between genres, or just a short read if I fancy something different. 

 

Summary 

With my Goodreads reading challenge done, the final books that make up my December monthly TBR are to wrap-up my last resolutions for the year. 

Did you set yourself any goals for 2025? Do you have any goals you’re making a final push to complete? 

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Monthly Wrap-Up – November 2025

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I’m looking forward to sharing the books I read in the last 30 days in today’s monthly wrap-up for November! I put in some solid reading, and I have a lot of good books to recap and share with you. How many books did you read in November? I’m not even sure how many I read; let’s take a look, shall we? 

 

Books Read 

A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping 

As of my last monthly wrap-up post, I had just 100 pages left of A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping. I got on so well with this book, I didn’t even feature it on November’s monthly TBR – I finished it on the first day of the month. 

I enjoyed this cozy, whimsical read. The message is great, and I was compelled to find out whether Sara’s life and circumstances changed after the book or not. The characters were great, and A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping was a well-received read, even if it’s not one I’d have picked myself. That’s what makes books clubs fun – and helps me meet me reading goal of reading outside of my comfort zone. 

 

Wizard of Ends: United Army

The beginning of the month was punctuated with reading deadlines. In a way, I actually think that helped me get some solid reading done. Sometimes, you need something like that to give you a kick up the bum, right? 

The added bonus is that Wizard of Ends: United Army was a shorter read. I read the book over the course of a day, and I published my review of the book on the 3rd November. No rest for the wicked, is there? In the interests of getting you to appreciate my efforts in writing down my thoughts, I’m going to point you to that review. I had fun with this short fantasy book. I also have a unique perspective in that unusually, I read this third instalment before picking up the earlier books. It’s not a habit of mine, but necessity struck. 

 

The Angel Prophecy

Just three days after my review of Wizard of Ends went live, I had another deadline to meet. When it rains, it pours, eh? It’s my own fault! I have a tendency to book myself on to a load of blog tours in one go, then not do any for a bit. Rinse and repeat. 

I wanted to pick up The Angel Prophecy after reading and reviewing The Atlantis Covenant as part of a blog tour back at the beginning of September. Honestly, it was as fun as I anticipated after reading that first instalment. Not only that, but I enjoyed getting to read some chapter perspectives from characters I liked from that first book, but maybe didn’t have a dominant enough role or personality to shine in The Atlantis Covenant. 

As with Wizard of Ends, if you want to read more on this book, you can check out my review. 

 

The God of the Woods

My final deadline was to read The God of the Woods ahead of our book club meet at work. I did have to put this meeting back a couple of weeks, as originally it was coinciding with my deadlines earlier in the month. 

Thankfully, events of this book were compulsively readable and I enjoyed this one thoroughly. So did Meg, who listened to the audiobook of this in just a matter of days after I announced the read to the club. If anything, I had to remind her of events as it had been a good while between her reading and our meet! 

We had a good discussion about the book too. The characters are interesting and I was doubting pretty much everyone at some point in the narrative. What’s real, and who could be trusted? It’s an interesting narrative. I’m glad I chose this book! 

 

The Shadow of What Was Lost 

Another book carried forward from October’s monthly wrap-up is my audiobook listen of The Shadow of What Was Lost by James Islington.  

Progress remained slow and steady throughout the month, until my time off work in the second half of the month. I was 30% into the audio as of the beginning of November, but rapidly made much more progress in the first week I had off and finished the audiobook on the 22nd. 

It’s a long audiobook, and I felt it in a way. However, it was a solid story and the ending really made the book for me. My decision to continue the series was made by the epilogue and by the epilogue alone! I had some suspicions that there was more to Kaden’s character. It wasn’t what I expected, but somehow, it was better… 

 

The Housemaid’s Secret

After listening to The Shadow of What Was Lost, I flew through The Housemaid’s Secret. The audiobook is about a third of the length of that first audiobook. That, and I was midway through kitchen renovations and both a crochet and cross-stitch project at the time. All are perfect opportunities to listen to audiobooks at the same time. 

I listened to the first book of the series, The Housemaid, earlier this year. To be consistent, I opted to continue the series in the same format. It was every bit as good as the first instalment. Given that I’d just listened to such a long audio, this one felt like it flew by! 

 

Empire of the Dawn

The last physical book I progressed with in November was Empire of the Dawn by Jay Kristoff. Admittedly, I slowed down on physical reads towards the end of the month. On the one hand, I’d argue that it’s because I was doing more physical things and therefore listening to audio instead. However, that wouldn’t be a real answer. If I’m honest, I think I started holding out on reading the book because I’m scared and sad to get to the end. 

I’ve enjoyed what I’ve read so far, and I am having a good time with the book. As a result of not finishing it in November, this is one of my first reads of December – and I need completion to achieve my series goal. Is that motivation enough to get over my trepidation about finishing the book? 

 

A Crucible of Souls

Finally, the last book on this monthly wrap-up is A Crucible of Souls. I started listening to this audiobook right at the end of the month, but still succeeded in getting to 33% before the end of the month. Audiobooks have really been working for me, what can I say? 

So far, this audio is pretty interesting and I’m optimistic it’s only going to get better. Caldan is an intriguing character and I can’t wait to find out more. What really happened to his parents, and who is he? Is he going to be taken advantage of in the big wide world he’s not used to? I suspect so, but that remains to be seen. 

You’ll find out more in the near future as I report progress in my Sunday Summary updates. 

 

Death of a Billionaire

Finally, I picked up my e-reader for the first time in a while to start an ARC of a book you’ll be hearing more about soon. Sneaking on to today’s monthly wrap-up post is Death of a Billionaire by Tucker May. I started this book yesterday, the last day of the month, as I am due to review this in just a couple of days time as part of an ongoing blog tour.

I read the first 20% yesterday, with the rest to follow very shortly!

 

Summary 

I’ve made good reading progress this month, especially audiobooks! Circumstances have meant these have suited what I’ve been doing this month. It’s odd, because there are months I don’t read a lot on that format at all. Then, I get months like this where I listen to several. 

I’ve enjoyed this month, and I also have the great news to share that I met my Goodreads Challenge of 45 books this month. I’m a happy bunny, so any reading above and beyond this is a bonus. Naturally, in December’s monthly TBR I’m going to focus on reading towards my other reading goals. 

Thanks for checking out today’s monthly wrap-up! How many books have you read so far this year? 

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