Tag: mystery

Monthly Wrap-Up – July 2026

Posted on August 5, 2026August 5, 2026 by fantasyst95

In early July, I took a bit of a step back from reading. I had a bit of a reading slump at the end of June. Honestly, I was too ambitious in my hopes for completing the Goodreads Spring challenge. I pushed too hard and failed. Nevertheless, we love onwards and upwards.

So, I enjoyed a break, some craft projects and then dived in to fulfil some blog tour obligations and get back in the swing of audiobooks. If you’re interested, you can check out the list of books I intended to read in July by looking at my July TBR post. Now, let’s recap what I read in July.

Books Read

Behind Closed Doors

Goodreads Link

My audiobook listen right at the end of June was Behind Closed Doors. I listened to this relatively short thriller over the end of June and into the beginning of July. If I recall correctly, I was around a third of the way through the audiobook as at the end of June.

Given the break I ended up taking, I finished this audio a little later than I expected. However, when it came down to it, I did enjoy going back to and wrapping up this one.

Did Behind Closed Doors blow me away in the way I hoped? No. Secretly, I was hoping this book would be a little different from other books in the same genre. Maybe the unlikely Millie would turn events on their head. Or, maybe our expectations of a controlling husband are unfounded and it’s Grace that’s the problem. No. sadly not.

Nevertheless, Behind Closed Doors was a decent read. Just not genre-defining.

Katabasis

Goodreads Link

Early in the month, I read just a handful of pages of Katabasis. I made a decision to break from the book slump at end of June. So, I consciously chose to pick up different reads to those I was slogging over at the end of June.

I’ll go back to Katabasis in the near future. More on this to follow on the blog shortly. However, my first priority is to get back into reading more regularly and find some stunning reads to put me back in the right headspace.

House of Twisted Shadows

Goodreads Link

It helps that I had some reading deadlines to meet. Else, I may not have read much at all in July.

My first reading deadline was a review of House of Twisted Shadows on the 25th July. I love the combination of WW2 history and Nazi associations/ties to Tyler House and the mystery underpinning the whole story. House of Twisted Shadows is moody, aesthetic and honestly, it was the refreshing read I needed.

If you’re curious, check out my review here.

A Painkiller to Die For

Goodreads Link

Hot on the heels of my review of House of Twisted Shadows, my obligation to review A Painkiller to Die For fell just a few days later on the 28th July.

This book was very different in its style and angle. I enjoyed the complexity of the characters, the morality question of what was going on and exploring the underlying motives and goals of the characters in the storyline.

A Painkiller to Die For is another interesting read I think you’ll enjoy if you like the sound of it based on the description above. Want to find out more? Take a look at that review here.

The Tw*t Files

Goodreads Link

Like Katabasis, I picked up The Tw*t Files at the end of June to hopefully break the reading slump.

At the beginning of July, I read around 100 pages. It’s pretty quick to read, and very funny. However, I did stop reading this one in favour of making a friend a birthday gift. Then, my blog tour obligations took priority. This is another book you’ll see more of in the near future – watch this space!

Empire of Storms

Goodreads Link

Finally, the read that’s been dominating my attention for most of the month, on and off, it Empire of Storms.

Whilst this book is definitely easier to listen to than read, I didn’t quite finish it before the end of July. In fact, as of writing, I have just under 3 hours left. I made a valiant effort last Sunday and listened to around 6 hours whilst my partner was at work. One last push to go and I will be able to tick Empire of Storms off the list! ✅

Summary

July was a bit of a slow month, but that’s okay! I’m hoping things will settle down shortly and I’ll be able to reading at my regular pace before I know it!

How is your summer reading going?

Book Birthday Blitz! – A Painkiller to Die For – Martyn Pritchard

Posted on July 28, 2026July 28, 2026 by fantasyst95

If you like the sound of a mystery thriller based on the moral dilemmas of ethical science, you�re probably very open-minded. Or, you have niche tastes. Personally, as a pretty open-minded reader I was curious to give A Painkiller to Die for a try! It�s a unique premise, and one that was very different from anything I�ve read lately.�

As always, thanks to Rachel and the author, Dr Martyn Pritchard, for the opportunity to read and review A Painkiller to Die For this July in celebration of its book birthday. Whilst I was provided a copy of the book for the purpose of giving my review, the thoughts expressed within this review are entirely my own.

Here are the details, the synopsis, and purchase links. Then, my (hopefully) highly anticipated review for the book birthday of A Painkiller to Die For can get underway!

A Painkiller to Die For – Martyn Pritchard

Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pages: 282
Audience: Adult
Publisher: Troubador Publishing Limited
Original Publication Date: 28 July 2025
Rating: ???

Goodreads – A Painkiller to Die For

It was difficult for Will Jeavons to imagine just how his life could possibly get any better. Having overcome a traumatic childhood, he had gone on to study molecular pharmacology and win tenure as a lecturer at his beloved Cambridge University. But his life was soon to become better still, the CEO of a biotech company. Will�s unique research led to the discovery of a non-addictive drug for chronic pain. A remarkable solution for the opioid epidemic which had claimed the life of his mother.�

Will�s flourishing company was subsequently acquired, and this was when he first met Celeste Simmonds. The beguiling Celeste would steer Will away from his earlier hedonistic, womanising lifestyle. However, the only way he could ensure the success of his drug was to bury key safety data which could have led to the clinical trials being terminated.�

Clinical trials which resulted in the husband of Lydia Goldberg falling into a deep coma. It was Lydia�s scientific training which led her to discover Will�s fraudulent cover-up. She was determined to seek vengeance and concocted an elaborate honeytrap and a decision for Will to make. A career ending confession or being submitted to a life-threatening game of Russian roulette.

Purchase Links – Amazon UK Amazon US

My Thoughts…

Plot

In A Painkiller to Die For, the plot as it unravels is all about to a moral dilemma. When a drug flags up some concerning test results, do you be honest and face the consequence of losing everything you have built to date? Or, are you supposed to suppress it hope that the cost paid down the line isn�t a human one.

I personally enjoyed the conflict that takes place throughout this book. Combining the plot line with a set of less than altruistic characters, we end up with the engaging mystery and ultimate thriller narrative we see in A Painkiller to Die For!

I�m not going to spoil anything for you here. Otherwise, how would I be encouraging you to pick up the book for yourself? Instead, what I will say is that I was engaged for this book and read most of it in one sitting.�

Characters

I personally have mixed feelings over characters, Will especially. However, I�d argue that�s intentional given storyline. Will is hardly upstanding and honest in the face of moral dilemma that could shut down his small company for good.

The one redeeming aspect of Will�s character is his backstory. It lends context to why Will ends up in the job/position he is and his motivations for keeping Granta Pain Therapeutics alive.

Otherwise, we are treated to a wide cast of characters that help bring an overall storyline. Some are stronger than others, such as Celeste and Lydia. Others provide more of a background, but no less contribute to the wider narrative.

Setting

The overall setting of A Painkiller to Die For is pretty modern. The Narrative re refers to post-Covid events. So, really we�re looking at a book set in today�s world.

And really, this is done very well. It checks out. Characters are in line with expectations in terms of modern technology, attitudes etc. It feels like it could be happening here and now in the real world. We can only hope not!�

Narrative Style

I enjoy a multi perspective narrative, which we readers are treated to here. Written from the perspectives of multiple characters, we get to see the events of A Painkiller to Die For unfold and watch the moral dilemma play out. This kind of book wouldn�t be the same in a single perspective. This is definitely a designed choice that works for the book, and it suits my overall preference!

What�s also a bit different is that the story starts at end and we discover �how we got there� throughout the page count. Whilst I think this style can be a bit of a risk, it�s worth the payoff. The mystery in this case is to uncover the truth that gets to an epic and drastic conclusion. In A Painkiller to Die For, we get the payoff we�re looking for.�

A Painkiller to Die For is also written in a reasonably easy to follow style. I had no trouble devouring the narrative at all�

Summary

A Painkiller to Die For is an interesting book – the author�s experience in the field is without question. It�s a unique take on a topic we don�t read much about, yet I enjoyed something different.

I hope you can pick a copy of A Painkiller to Die For and let me know your thoughts in due course!

Author Bio

Dr Martyn Pritchard is currently moving towards retirement following on from a 35-year long career in drug discovery research focusing on neuroscience as well as novel medicines to treat pain. He is the author of over 50 scientific papers and book chapters along with one novel written under a nom de plume: A Practical Arrangement.

Social Media Links �
Instagram: martyn.pritchard1 (Instagram)
Facebook: (20+) Facebook

Blog Tour Review: House of Twisted Shadows – J.H. Mann

Posted on July 25, 2026July 24, 2026 by fantasyst95

If you are interested in a mystery novel with ties to World War II history, look no further! House of Twisted Shadows is different from other books I�ve read in its genre. With a bleak, sinister setting and a dark past to revisit, it�s an atmospheric read to cosy in with.

As always, thanks to Rachel and the author, J.H. Mann for the opportunity to read and review House of Twisted Shadows. Whilst I was provided a copy of the book for the purpose of giving my review, the thoughts expressed within this review are entirely my own.

Let�s check out the details, synopsis, (and purchase links if you want to get a copy yourself), then I can get to the fun part of the review!

House of Twisted Shadows – J.H. Mann

Genre: Mystery Thriller�

Pages: 344

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Dark Spider Books�

Original Publication Date: 24 July 2026

Rating: ????

Goodreads – House of Twisted Shadows

House of Twisted Shadows

A HOUSE ON THE EDGE
A DAUGHTER DRIVEN TO OBSESSION
A FORBIDDEN LOVE

Winter 1962. Amelia Tremayne has spent the past ten years in London trying to forget the lonely clifftop house where her father was killed. Tyler House was built shortly before the Second World War on Cornwall�s stormy coast by a wealthy German outsider. Its most unsettling feature is a vast glass dome that bends the light, casting twisted, elongated shadows across the walls.

Amelia�s father, Douglas Tremayne, a noted historian, was researching a controversial book about Tyler House�s Nazi origins – and its links to powerful figures in the local community.

As Amelia begins to uncover the truth about her father�s death, she is pulled into a web of buried secrets – and into a forbidden love that could destroy everything she holds dear.

INSPIRED BY A TRUE STORY

Praise for J.H.Mann:

�Powerful, evocative and steeped in atmosphere – J.H. Mann vividly brings Cornwall�s wild, haunting landscape and its legends to life� – Margaret James, bestselling author of the Denham Family Sagas

�Vivid details of the landscape, eroding cliffs and crumbling house�the tension grips you and the atmospheric setting of Tyler House draws you in� – Cheshire Novel Prize

Purchase Links -�Amazon UK � Amazon US

My Thoughts…

Plot

What I really enjoyed about House of Twisted Shadows is that a thriller and mystery plot line is combined with World War II history. It�s a subject I love reading about, and it was the main reason I chose to pick up house of twisted shadows in the first place. As ideas go, it�s pretty unique. This is the first book I�ve read of its type, and I�d happily devour more!�

I enjoyed uncovering the truth behind Tyler House and its previous occupants. what makes this even more enjoyable is that it is somewhat based true fact. How many such places were built on Britain�s Shores? Is their past as nefarious as that in House of Twisted Shadows?

Characters

Amelia�s an interesting character. Coming back to the place her world fell apart, she�s determined to revisit her past to uncover the truth. Truly, I enjoyed such a bright spark in this eerie, atmospheric setting.�

Not all characters in House of Twisted Shadows are as easy to get behind though. Sinister plots and machinations abound, both in history, and present day, to thwart Amelia�s aims. Not that we necessarily know who they are. As a community, the locals are a little guarded. Only Aidan, an ex, and Edith, a dear friend, care at all for Amelia�s welfare.�

Setting

Tyler House, sat on a bleak clifftop in Cornwall lives up to it history. Desolate, bleak and shut off from the rest of the world in the height of winter, Amelia has only the shadows from her past for company.�

As somebody who lives in a relatively small town community herself, I appreciated the vibe and overall setting we get in House of Twisted Shadows. In a community where tongues wag over every piece of invented gossip to keep things entertaining (it�s the only thing to do for miles after all!), it�s very familiar and immersive.�

Thrown into this relatively close knit and small community, Amelia is a bit of an outsider. Daughter of the famous historian who ruffled some feathers in his day, she was unlikely to get locals on side. She is trying to dig up the past, and if she finds out what her father was working on in the days leading up to his death, it will spell trouble.�

Narrative Style

As with any mystery, timing and execution of the big reveal plot twist is essential. House of Twisted Shadows pulls this off perfectly. Rather than one definitive twist at the end, we are treated to multiple reveals throughout the plot line that help give us a bigger picture of what happened all those years ago. Amelia is in for a rollercoaster ride. She came back to this small town to find out the truth of what happened to her father. Is she equipped to deal with the truths she uncovers?

This book reads really easily. Suitable for all levels of reader, this approachable writing style makes the storyline accessible to all to enjoy! In terms of pace, it�d also a pretty quick read. With something new happening in every chapter, it�s fast-paced and pretty compulsively readable too.�

Summary

House of Twisted Shadows is a unique book for its subject. Even if you aren�t such a World War II fiction fan as I am, the intrigue behind the storyline and events that happened all those years ago are captivating enough to hold your attention.�

Bold, unique, and somewhat poetic in execution, the mysteries of Tyler House slowly yield to Amelia�s tenacity. Is all as it first appears? Only you can find out yourself by picking up House of Twisted Shadows and unraveling the mystery yourselves!�

Author Bio

J.H.Mann is an award-winning journalist and writer living in the South West of England. His second novel, The Echoing Shore, was a Yeovil Literary Prize award winner and the Adult Fiction Winner of the 2025 Selfies Book Awards at the London Book Fair. His third novel, The Silver Tide, has just been shortlisted for the 2026 Selfies Book Awards. He has strong family links with Cornwall. His novels are inspired by the many stories told by his mother and father and his own experiences as a shore-based volunteer for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). He lives with his wife, Nicola, and their lively whippet Patch.

Social Media Links ��

Facebook � www.facebook.com/jason.mann.9047

Instagram � www.instagram.com/jhmannauthor/

Tik Tok – J.h.mann.writer (@j.h.mann.writer) | TikTok

Website: www.jhmannauthor.com

Sunday Summary – 12th July 2026

Posted on July 12, 2026July 12, 2026 by fantasyst95

Happy Sunday friends! We�re at the end of another week and it�s a hot one! Are you guys suffering in this heatwave as well?�

It�s been a busy week this week personally. Work has been busy, but my immediate deadlines are now done and I can breathe a sigh of relief. I�m back into my typical routine, which means I have more time for books and my social media accounts again.�

This week, I shares a review of the memoir Twelve Years a Slave. It was challenging in some aspects, namely in topic but also in terms of writing style. However, I�m glad I persevered with the book as it was an interesting read. Then, later this week, I published an unfiltered post about the difficulties of going through dry patches as a content creator. When my online persona is all about books and reading, who am I when that falls away?�

On YouTube, I finally posted my June wrap-up. I talk about early successes, then the slump I found myself in during the second half of the month. Go and check that out if you haven�t already ??

Books Read

Behind Closed Doors

This week, I concluded this fairly short audiobook, listening to the last 70% of the book over the span of the week. When I last talked to you about this book, I had hopes it was going to be a little bit different from the book the narrative was lining up to be.�

Sadly, it ended up staying in its lane and it didn�t wow me. Don�t get me wrong, it was okay. However, for a book advertised as a bestseller, I had higher hopes that the story was going to deviate from the typical �trapped woman escapes abusive man by chance� tale. Initially, I half-hoped that maybe the roles were reversed. Then, I hoped Millie, Grace�s sister with Downs Syndrome, might have displayed great wit to help her sister and change reader�s perspective on those with the condition. Whilst she isn�t an insignificant part of the conclusion to the story, it wasn�t what I hoped.�

Nevertheless, it was a decent, middle of the road read and a change-up of genre compared to recent reads.�

The Tw*t Files

Breaking away from my July TBR a little, I impulsively picked up Dawn French�s The Tw*t Files for a lighter read this weekend. I�m hoping some humour gets me picking up pages more regularly. That, and I wanted something to read whilst I charged up my Kindle ready for some blog tour commitment reads later this month.�

So far, I�m about 120 pages, or 30%, into this book and it�s everything I need right now. Light. Funny. Brutally honest and unapologetic. It�s got my actively reaching for a book again because I want to. It�s been a couple of weeks since I�ve done that, if I�m honest. I�m hoping it will bring some more enjoyment to my current reads and get me back in a position to hit my blog tour commitment books with relish, rather than a sense of duty.�

More on this one to follow next week. I�m hoping this will be a quick finish next week.�

Empire of Storms

Finally, I started the next book in Sarah J. Maas�s Throne of Glass series.�

I�ve only just started the audio, listening to around 1hr 35mins. I�m listening to this one a little quicker than last time. I was able to listen to Queen of Shadows at x1.35 speed. This time, I�m able to follow along pretty comfortably at x1.45. It�s a good thing, when you consider the book is a bit longer than the last. It�s not the longest of the series, but it still tops 700 pages!�

I�ve got just shy of 16 hours left of this audio. Now things are back to normal, I�ll be back at the gym this week. I�m also planning to take a break from some of the classes I�ve been doing and go back to doing some of my own weightlifting. I feel like I got more benefit from those, but I do enjoy the classes. I�m trialling going back to the gym a little more and doing my own strength training to see if I see more progress again. What significance does that have for reading? Well, I listen to audiobooks at the same time!�

Books Discovered

I�ve got very little to report here again. No new books on the list. I appreciate that as far as updates, go, it�s boring. However, when you have in excess of 200 books on the TBR already, it�s not a bad thing when you haven�t found any more to add! �

Coming Up…�

What I’m Reading…

What do I plan to read over the next seven days? Well, here are my priorities in order!

Continue Empire of Storms for my Throne of Glass readalong. I�ll also set these up on Fable and Storygraph shortly!�
Finish The Tw*t Files, hopefully in the next couple of days
Read House of Twisted Shadows in its entirety – I�ve got a review due on the 25th July.�
Hopefully start A Painkiller to Die For

Given my recent dry spell with reading, it�s a bold plan. However, it needs to be and I�m optimistic The Tw*t Files will do its job of getting me out of the funk I�ve been in and better able to pick up more titles.�

�

Blog

So, what to post next week. I�m not sure really. I�m conscious I don�t want to bombard you with book reviews, because I know I have two coming up within days of each other later this month. Usually then, I turn to Top Ten Tuesdays. However, I�m not a fan of next week�s topic. So, that�s out.�

Inspired by the current heatwave, let�s share something summery. Maybe my top five summer reads? There�s no way I could do ten – I�m not really a seasonal reader in the summertime.�

Later in the week, I�ll return to my regular Friday features. This week, it�s the turn of my First Lines Friday post. What book will I feature this week? What intro will I use to capture your attention and hopefully inspire you to pick up a book? I�ve no idea yet – let�s see what takes my fancy later in the week!�

As always, you know what comes last. I�ll round up the week with another Sunday Summary. Fingers crossed I�m fully back to my usual self with lots of bookish updates next week. For the first time this year, I lost my lead and was slightly behind schedule to complete my 60 books challenge this year. Can I recover to get a couple of books lead again. Let�s see!�

YouTube

It�s a little late in the day, but I�ve got my July TBR recorded and ready to publish. Nearly. I just need to edit the video ? However, my plan is to get that out early next week so those who follow me on YouTube know what I�m reading this week!�

Then, I�ve got a review video planned to share my thoughts on Queen of Shadows. I wanted to commit my thoughts on this book before I make a start on Empire of Storms so I don�t get muddled between books. I don�t trust the headspace I�m in right now to not do that!�

Then, all being well, next week I�ll get back to recording my video weekly updates as well. The last few weeks I�ve not really had a whole lot to talk about, so I haven�t bothered��

Summary

Thanks for checking out this latest Sunday Summary. I hope you had a great weekend, and maybe you picked up an entertaining read to help cope with the heat or otherwise distract yourself from the joys of mundane life ? If so, tell me what you�re reading!�

Monthly Wrap-Up – June 2026

Posted on July 1, 2026July 1, 2026 by fantasyst95

Reading progress in June didn’t go the way I wanted. Whilst that is the theme of this monthly wrap-up, it isn’t all bad. The TBR I set myself in June was a tall order. I set out to try and complete the Goodreads Spring Reading Challenge, having only achieved half of the awards by the beginning of June. The TBR required long reads. Different reads. Too many, if I�m honest.�

I knew it was going to be the most difficult TBR to complete yet. After a gamble on reading Somewhere Beyond the Sea didn�t pay off in qualifying for the Pride Month, it set me on the back foot. It only really carried on from there��

Less commiserating – let�s at least look at the books I did read. There is good news in this monthly wrap-up – I�m on track with my Throne of Glass readalong for the first time�. And I�ve just read book 4… Not only that, but a completed read and the discovery of a new author I want to read more from was probably the highlight of the month!�

Books Read

Somewhere Beyond the Sea

Goodreads Link

My gamble with listening to Somewhere Beyond the Sea, so I could finish it in early June, didn�t quite go to plan. Well, I finished the book on the first of the month. That part was bob-on. My gamble that it qualified for the Pride Month award was scuppered though.�

To be honest, there wasn�t anything I could have done here. I had a few books on my TBR that I felt could fit. As it happens, none of them were on the list. Regardless of what I picked, I wouldn�t have got it.�

However, I have ticked a sequel off my TBR, so it�s not all doom and gloom! I really enjoyed this cozy, wholesome narrative!�

Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon

Goodreads Link

My next carryover from May was a non-fiction about one of my favourite book and TV series of all-time – Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon. I love reading about A Game of Thrones, be it the books themselves, the history, lore, or turns out, the drama of filming that which was not meant to be filmable!�

I don�t envy Dan Weiss and David Benioff. They put a lot of pressure on themselves to deliver something we have never really seen on screen before. We are now 6+ years post release of the final, fateful series, and it�s hard to recall that this was a front-runner in terms of scope and size. Now, it feels like GoT set a bar that everyone else has to live up to. We love our epics!�

Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon is very much all about the behind-the-scenes action – the decision-making, the thoughts of actors and their roles, and the ways in which actors discovered their characters fates.�

All in all, loved this read. There is very little �new� I read about this series now. This hit the mark though!�

Project Hail Mary

Goodreads Link

Mid-month, I finished listening to Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. I picked this book up as it contributed to two Goodreads Spring Reading Challenge awards – Summer Reading and Escapist reads. Whilst I picked it up more for the awards, it was the best decision I made!�

The audiobook version of the book is phenomenal! It was a great listen, and the characterisation of Rocky wouldn�t have been the same on paper I don�t think. I loved Project Hail Mary so much that I immediately added Artemis and the Martian to my TBR.�

What a happy result from a book that wasn�t necessarily a reading priority but for the challenge��

Queen of Shadows

Goodreads Link

I tried something different with my readalong book of the month in June. Instead of borrowing a digital copy of Queen of Shadows, like I did for every book in the series so far, I picked up an audiobook copy. An aspect. I struggled with in earlier books is the slower pace of setting the scene a the beginning of the book. In the hopes of getting past that, I hoped the audiobook would smooth this issue.�

I�m pleased to say it did! The other reason I opted for audio was because I was more likely to listen throughout the month and match the pace of my readalong. I generally listen more slowly and consistently. On that front, the audiobook version of Queen of Shadows worked for me as well.�

I�m looking forward to sharing my thoughts on this one over on my YouTube channel later this week. Then, I�ll continue in the same form, diving into Empire of Storms in audio format as well.�

The Pillars of the Earth

Goodreads Link

The main downfall at the end of this month was the size of The Pillars of the Earth overwhelming me. I had set myself a target to read 42 pages a day to get through it. Was that achievable? Sure. However, once you get a little behind, it�s easy to fall off the wagon. That happened for me in June, and really that stalled my reading progress.�

Am I still enjoying The Pillars of the Earth? Yes! It�s a slower read, sure. I can lean into that. I think my expectations to finish this book, as well as pick up three others before the end of the month was just a bit much. In the later half of June, that reality crept up on me.�

I�m still plodding along with The Pillars of the Earth. My plans are to read this slowly alongside other faster-paced reads. Otherwise, I may just get stuck on it. It�s an interesting book so far, and I don�t want to waste the progress I�ve made so far by putting it down (even temporarily).�

Katabasis

Goodreads Link

In the last couple of days of the month, I needed a change of pace. So, I picked up Katabasis. As expected, this book leans into the dark academia and fantasy magical realism that I wanted. I�ve enjoyed this before in Babel, by the same author. I loved that book, and felt it was the best pick-me-up to round off the month.

And that is true. However, I didn�t read a whole lot of the book before the end of June so there isn�t a huge update in this monthly wrap-up on where I�m up to. Nevertheless, I�ve got plenty of time in July to continue this read and really get into the gritty storyline I�m hoping for.�

Behind Closed Doors

Goodreads Link

My last audiobook of the month that I started was Behind Closed Doors. It�s a pretty short book, but I only started it a few days before month-end.�

Behind Closed Doors qualified for the Community Picks award. These books were in the mystery/thriller genre. Based on the rest of my TBR, it made for a refreshing change. That�s still the case! Looking ahead at books I need to read in the next few weeks, I�m going to enjoy listening to something a little different. It�s apparent from the off that something is off in this family dynamic. But, is it what we think it is?�

Only time will tell!�

Summary

My June TBR was a little unattainable, if I�m honest. However, if I don�t push myself, I tend to fall slack on reading as well. I suppose my take away from this monthly wrap-up is that I need to find the middle ground. Give myself a little challenge, but not so much that I don�t have time for bad days, or wanting to pick up other hobbies.�

Thanks for reading today�s monthly wrap-up! How was your reading month in June? Did you complete any challenges, or discover any new favourite authors?�

Sunday Summary – 14th June 2026

Posted on June 14, 2026 by fantasyst95

This week has been a busy one, and I�m glad to catch you up on my current reads and content shared in this latest Sunday Summary.�

Its felt a little weird this week. Between recent bank holidays and time off work, this was my first full week for a while. No rest for the wicked! I�ve put out a full complement of content despite a full week on my plate. Let�s take a look at what I shared��

My first post of the week was in response to news that some libraries in the UK are effectively being censored by the councils running them. Here�s my thoughts on why I don�t agree with that. Later this week, I shared a First Lines Friday. This week�s book is a non-fiction book on my physical unread TBR. It�s topical at the moment given it addresses recently available technology.�

Over on YouTube, I shared two book reviews with you, as well as my weekly vlog video just a few minutes ago. My reviews were for books with romance links, so if you enjoy romance you are in for a treat. The first review was for Julia Quinn�s An Offer From a Gentleman. The second review was for the second book of my readalong series Throne of Glass, being Crown of Midnight.�

Books Read

Project Hail Mary

When I caught up with you in last week�s Sunday Summary update, I had a few hours left of Project Hail Mary to finish.�

In the grand scheme, I finished this pretty quickly. I was really invested in learning the ending of the book. One aspect I really loved as well was the nerdy science that occurs naturally throughout the narrative. It�s very clear a lot of time and effort went into the research of the book. Although I haven�t read any books by Andy Weir before this one, Project Hail Mary sold me on his books. You�ll see just how much when I get to TBR additions later��

Project Hail Mary was a fun listen, and productive in that it ticks off two Goodreads Spring Challenge achievements off the list.�

The Pillars of the Earth

Since last week, I�ve read 280 pages towards The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. I�m a little behind the 380 page target I worked out in last week�s Sunday Summary. However, I know I can get that read once this post goes live.�

I typically spend weekends at home, with maybe a couple of short errands out and about. However, I wasn�t home most of the day yesterday and that impacted my reading time. Whilst I do read a little at the hairdressers, it�s nowhere near the quality reading time I get at home as it�s busy. Plus, I usually end up yacking with everyone there.�

So, I�m close to where I need to be and the plan is to catch up this evening. As I�m reading this book throughout the remainder of June, I need to be 760 pages into The Pillars of the Earth by my next Sunday Summary.�

For a long book, I�m getting on with the narrative. It�s for sure a slow-burn read for me, and it�s working fine. This historical fiction is engaging in its wider backdrop, but also in the scheming taking place between characters. It�s a great read so far, and I�m looking forward to reading on in the next week.�

Queen of Shadows

Finally, I started my next Throne of Glass readalong read. Or, in this case, listen.�

Yes, I�m picking up Queen of Shadows in audiobook format this month. Previously, I�ve struggled with pacing in the early days of the books whilst new material is unveiled. To get around the issue of reading on my phone causing distractions, and also to help with pacing, I�m trying audio this month.�

So far, I�m just shy of 20% into the opening of the book. As things stand, I have had no trouble with pacing at all. The audiobook is working well; if things continue, it�s going to be the way I finish this readalong.�

I�m invested in the series and where events are going to take us next. What happens to Celaena returning to Adarlan? I can�t wait to find out!�

Books Discovered

In previous weeks I�ve been pretty good for ticking books off the reading list. However, this week I�ve made up for previous good behaviour by adding The Martian and Artemis by Andy Weir. On top of those, I also added The Daughter of Auschwitz, The Twins of Auschwitz and Of Wind and Fate.�

Told you I�ve made up for recent good behaviour, didn�t I?!�

Coming Up��

What I�m Reading��

Naturally, priority next week goes to keeping pace with The Pillars of the Earth and Queen of Shadows, aka my current reads. On top of that, I�d like to get to a book I intended to get to this week, which is Ink, Blood, Sister, Scribe by Emma T�rzs.�

Blog

Coming up on the blog next week, I�ve got a different piece of content to share. I�m hoping to build a Game of Thrones related quiz. Want to test your knowledge on all things Game of Thrones? Watch this space and take the test to find out if you are a GoT buff, or if you need to re-read the series. As if you need an excuse��

On Friday I�m back with a Shelf Control post. If you are unfamiliar with this series, I look at upcoming books on my TBR and share why I�m excited to read them. I look forward to looking ahead and discovering my next feature later this week.�

Finally, Sunday Summary is the final post to wrap-up the week. As always, I�ll recap current reads, content shared, as well as give you insight on upcoming content. Stay tuned for my next weekly update.�

YouTube

On YouTube, I�ve got a discussion post on subscription boxes recorded and ready for editing. As well, I have a review video for Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas coming up towards the end of next week. I hope you are as excited to hear about this book as I was to record my thoughts!�

Finally, I�ll post my weekly vlog at the end of the week to share much the same information as I do here in these Sunday Summary posts.�

Summary�

Thanks for reading my latest Sunday Summary. It�s been a good week, but I hope I can push on a little and get a couple of finishes in next week.�

What have you read this weekend?

Sunday Summary – 7th June 2026

Posted on June 7, 2026 by fantasyst95

Happy Sunday, fellow readers! Today�s Sunday Summary, thankfully, has a few completions and new bookish starts to share. Given the size of my June TBR, which I published earlier this week, it�s the best I can hope for in setting myself up to complete the list.�

Before I get into the reading updates, what else have I published? Here on the blog, my monthly wrap-up of May reading progress went live at the beginning of the week. Then, I shared my blog tour review of Witch Hunt by B.D. Spargo on Thursday. If you�re into thrillers set in the infamous backdrop of Lancashire�s Pendle Hill, this is definitely one to look at!�

Over on YouTube, I shared my monthly wrap-up for May, as well as my June TBR. If you�d prefer to watch or listen to those as opposed to reading the details here, there are links for you to check those out! Finally, I also posted my round-up of this week just a short time ago. I�d like to hope you�ll carry on reading as you�re here. However, if you would prefer to watch or listen to my update instead, you have the option ??

Books Read

Heir of Fire

In last week�s Sunday Summary, I shared hopes to finish Heir of Fire after publishing that weekly update. Well, good news, friends – I did! And you know what, it wasn�t too late either. I maybe went to bed around 00:20. A bit later than usual (although that used to be my normal�).

I really enjoyed Heir of Fire. Whilst the beginning of the book was a little slower-paced, the action has us inevitably ramping up pace and eager to get to the conclusion. It�s set up the next book in the series well, and I�m excited to read on and find out more in the very near future!�

Somewhere Beyond the Sea

Another finish to report in this Sunday Summary is Somewhere Beyond the Sea. As of last week�s update, I was 80% into this audiobook and I had around two and a half hours remaining.�

Well, I made pretty light work of it, if I�m honest. The office was quieter than usual this week with many people opting to WFH. Locally, we�ve been hosting the TT this week. Whilst I can�t say we had the best of luck with weather and red flags delaying and/or calling off the races, the disruption meant many opted to stay at home and avoid the traffic and general disruption.�

I, however, went into the office. I make no secret of the fact I don�t like WFH and so I continued to go in. As it was so quiet though, and I had some repetitive work to do, I was able to listen to Somewhere Beyond the Sea at the same time.�

This was a fun listen, and I�m glad I am now up-to-date with this series. I�m not sure if any more books are planned, but as of right now I�m caught up. It�s cosy, wholesome and great to see the children come into their own and develop confidence and solidarity. The only downside of the experience is that this book did not qualify for the Pride Month award in the Goodreads Spring 2026 Reading Challenge like I hoped. However, I wasn�t able to tell when I chose my book and on reflection, none of the books on my TBR would have qualified anyway. At least I can tick another book off the TBR though, which is a win!�

Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon

Over the course of this week, I�ve progressed with Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon by James Hibberd. This carryover from my May TBR was another great read and well received. If you are unfamiliar, this book is about the challenges and behind-the-scenes detail of filming the TV show. Personally, I enjoyed the commentary on the challenges of filming such an epic show and doing what nobody else has done before.�

However, it�s not just director commentary. We get tidbits from the cast and crew that make up the whole show. Actors� decisions on changes from the books, as well as how they�ve chosen to portray characters and how they think the characters felt at various and often divisive moments of the plot.�

I loved this book. Then again, I love A Game of Thrones. Hardly surprising the book would go down well, is it?! Since last week�s Sunday Summary, I read the final 350 pages or so to finish Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon yesterday.�

Project Hail Mary

I�d only just started Project Hail Mary when I updated you last week. Overall, I�d only listened to the first 1hr 20mins or so when we last chatted. Over the last 7 days, I�ve listened to around 7 hours of audio. In terms of progress, that brings me to around 70% total progress in the audiobook.�

I�ve been listening to the audiobook at x1.4 speed. It�s not often I can listen this fast, but this particular audio works well at this speed. It�s also an engaging storyline. We start the book in the perspective of present-day Ryland, who wakes up on a spaceship with two deceased colleagues. He has no memory initially of how or why he is there, but slowly flashbacks return his memory and remind him of his purpose.�

I had one blip with this book when a certain character is introduced. I felt it was a little farfetched, but it very quickly warmed on me. So, despite my reservations, I�ve really enjoyed the audiobook so far. I�m hopeful I can finish the remaining 3 hrs 40 mins very soon and discover how this book ends. I honestly have no idea where this is going to go at present!�

The Pillars of the Earth

Finally, I�ve started The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett this weekend. Given I only finished Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon yesterday, I�ve not had a lot of time with this book as yet.�

So far, I�ve only read the first 42 pages. It�s a token start, but one I�m hoping to build on in coming weeks. My plan for this book is to read it slowly over the course of the month. To achieve that, I need to read a minimum of 42 pages a day. I still need to read today�s quota of pages, but I�m hoping I can read a little beyond that tonight and get a little ahead.�

Books Discovered

This week has given the type of progress I can only hope for – several books off the TBR and no new additions! It doesn�t happen very often, let�s be honest.�

Coming Up��

What I�m Reading��

So, reading plans for next week! In terms of audiobook listens, my plan is to progress with and finish Project Hail Mary in the first half of the week ideally. Then, I�d like to move on to start Queen of Shadows by Sarah J. Maas and start the next phase of my readalong ??

In terms of physical reads, I�m hoping to maintain progress with The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett so I can complete this ahead of the end of June. That means reading around 42 pages a day, so I need to be around 380 pages in time for my next Sunday Summary. That�s not the only book on my physical TBR I�d like to pick up this week. Around that, I�d like to break this up with Ink, Blood, Sister, Scribe by Emma T�rzs.�

Blog

I�ve got a couple of fun posts planned for you next week. One of these is on the back of news I read towards the end of last week about some UK libraries not being permitted to promote events around the likes of Pride Month and Black History Month. I have thoughts on the move by Reform UK who run Essex County Council, so I�ll share more on that in the coming days.�

On Friday, I�ll return with another First Lines Friday feature. One thing I�ve become very aware of recently is the size of my unread physical TBR. My plan is to take a look at some of those and find a suitable feature from the ranks. Hopefully, it inspires me to pick it up soon!�

Finally, I�ll return with another Sunday Summary update. I can only hope for another week of similar reading productivity. If I can, June�s TBR will be a breeze.�

YouTube

Today I recorded two review videos for next week. I want to be sure I don�t get behind. So, next week I�m sharing my thoughts on the second book of my Throne of Glass readalong, Crown of Midnight.�

I�ve also recorded a review for another romance genre novel. That one is An Offer From a Gentleman by Julia Quinn. I hope you can take a look at those videos as they go live in the coming days.�

Like here, I�ll also share the equivalent of my Sunday Summary video update next Sunday.�

Summary�

Thanks for reading this Sunday Summary. I�m glad to share such a productive week, and can only hope it continues!�

What book have you finished recently, and what did you make of it?�

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

I only had one book that fit the AAPI Heritage reading prompt. And you know what, I�m not mad, as it means I get to pick up another book by R.F. Kuang!�

I have really come to love Rebecca�s writing. Most recently, I picked up Yellowface at the beginning of this year. However, I have loved all the books more reminiscent of Katabasis, including the likes of Babel.�

I was so excited to pick up a physical copy of this book that I picked it up going abroad last year, only to bring it all the way home. Could I have waited? Sure. Did I want to? Absolutely not!�

Challenger�

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

When reading Orbital by Samantha Harvey at the very top of the year, I got to touch upon the topic of the space shuttle Challenger and its tragic fate in that narrative. It was only touched on very briefly, but it sparked a reminder that I wanted to pick up Challenger by Adam Higginbotham to really learn what happened on that fateful day.

Thankfully, this book qualifies for the editor�s picks prompt for the spring challenge. Honestly, I had a few books that fit in this category, and it was hard to choose which one. However, partly down to the combination of already owning the book, as well as being passionate about the subject from a recent read, gave this book the edge to make it onto this monthly TBR.�

Behind Closed Doors

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

Finally, given I already have some lengthy reading to get through, I picked the shortest book on my TBR for the community picks prompt.�

Behind Closed Doors is a reasonably short mystery/thriller novel that I will hopefully devour! Given I�ve enjoyed books like this in audio format before, and the heavy weighting of physical books on this June TBR so far, I imagine I will pick this up in audio just to help get to it as well.�

At just under 300 pages, this feels achievable!�

Summary�

So, ignoring the fact I currently have a gap to fill in another Pride Month pick, these are the books I plan to read towards the rest of the challenge prompts for the Goodreads Spring 2026 Reading Challenge. However, I do also have a couple of books on this list that don�t fit that prompt at all. Fire cannot kill a dragon and Queen of Shadows do not qualify for this challenge at all, but they are personal reads I�m invested in picking up in June.

Are you taking part in any reading challenges this month? Do you have any planned summer reading you are taking part in? Let me know in the comments what you�re planning to read this June.

Sunday Summary – 31st May 2026

Posted on May 31, 2026 by fantasyst95

Somehow we�re at the end of another week� and the end of May! How has it gone this fast? In my latest Sunday Summary, I catch you up on the books I�ve made progress with this week and what content I�ve shared. As well, I update you on one book I�ve added to my TBR this week, and finally, what to expect coming up over the next seven days. Buckle up and get comfortable!�

First, let�s recap content I�ve shared this week. On the blog, I shared a Top Ten Tuesday in which I featured My Favourite Reads by My Favourite Authors. On Friday, I shared my latest Shelf Control post, looking at an upcoming historical fiction on my TBR with a strong female lead.�

Over on YouTube, I published two videos for your entertainment. The first of those was a book review of a book I read back in February – Grace by A.M. Shine. If you enjoy Gothic horror with an Irish mythology twist, or at least the idea of that, go check out that post! Yesterday, I then published My Must-Read Recommendations. If you want a feel for my reading taste, as well as a chance to get some varied book recommendations, go check out that video!�

I�ve also published my Sunday Summary video equivalent of this post, if you want to take a look at that.�

Books Read

Heir of Fire

I�m on a mission to finish Heir of Fire before I turn in tonight. This morning, I started off at 63% progress in the book (compared to 20% as of last week�s Sunday Summary). Right now, around 8 p.m. as I�m drafting this post, I�m 81% in. The action is KICKING OFF – I�m 100% finishing this book tonight if it�s the last thing I do. I�m hooked, keen to find out not only how this book ends, but also how it queues up the next book. Where do we go from here?�

For a series I didn�t anticipate enjoying, I�m getting on well with it. Sometimes getting into the books is a little slow, but once all the plot points start to come together, I find the books easy to run with.�

I�m also set on finishing Heir of Fire tonight so I�m on time with my own readalong, for once! I�ve been running late the whole time so far. The books get even longer after this one, so I can�t afford to run late.

Wish me luck on finishing this one tonight – my final motivator is that my library loan is due back tomorrow��

Somewhere Beyond the Sea

Over the course of this week, I�ve listened to around 45% of Somewhere Beyond the Sea. Add that to the 33% progress I was at last week, and you can see I�m nearly done with this audiobook.�

You may recall in last week�s Sunday Summary that this lines up with what I wanted to achieve. I�m reading Somewhere Beyond the Sea in the hopes it qualifies for the Goodreads Spring 2026 Reading Challenge Pride month prompt. Not knowing if I needed to finish this in June, Pride month itself, I�ve deliberately paced this to finish the audiobook in early June.�

As of this Sunday Summary I�m 80% through. So, all-in-all, I�ve largely achieved that goal of lining this up for an early June finish. The final 20% will take around 2 and a half hours to finish. I�ve consistently been listening to 45 mins of the book before bed on average. Now though, I can listen to an hour for the next couple of evenings and polish this off promptly!�

I had some concerns that Somewhere Beyond the Sea may be a little repetitive of the first book in the series, The House in the Cerulean Sea. However, I�m pleased to say that�s proven not to be the case at all. It�s charming, funny, and I can�t wait to see how the book wraps up. I guess I�ll find out in the next couple of days��

Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon

As of last week�s Sunday Summary, I�d just started Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon as a change-up from Heir of Fire. I�ve been solidly reading Sarah J. Maas for most of May, so I appreciated the change of genre and style.�

Over the course of this week, I�ve continued to turn to Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon to take a break from Heir of Fire. I�ve loved the tidbits of detail that unfurl throughout this behind-the-scenes account of the filming of A Game of Thrones. From cast interviews and commentary to editorial decisions on how things were filmed and why, it�s been insightful. It�s also a fun way to enjoy the series I love whilst also reading something new. Once I�ve finished Heir of Fire, I�m excited to make Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon my reading priority.�

Project Hail Mary

Finally, I started Project Hail Mary this week. Planning ahead for my June TBR, I sampled the audiobook before getting a copy to make sure the narrative style was something I could gel with. I�m happy with it, and I continued listening on for a couple of chapters.�

Listening on gave me a chance to get into the first couple of chapters and get a feel for the introductory setting of the book. I�m intrigued, so I�m looking forward to getting stuck into Project Hail Mary properly once I�m done with Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon!�

Books Discovered

Whilst doom-scrolling on Facebook this week, I came across the author page for today�s addition to my TBR. I�m intrigued by the premise of a book featuring a dragon that�s based on the author�s experience of disability. It�s a unique idea, and one I�m keen to explore more when I read it for myself! So, I�ve added Wing Weaver by A.P. Beswick to my TBR.�

Coming Up��

What I�m Reading��

Naturally, reading progress the rest of tonight is going to be Heir of Fire. After that, I�ll plough on with Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon. Likewise on the audio front, Somewhere Beyond the Sea is my priority listen and I should make light work of it. Then, I�m on to Project Hail Mary.�

However, I�m sure you�re keen to get a feel for what comes up next. With that in mind, the physical book I�m going to start after Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon is The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. It�s the chunkiest book on my upcoming June TBR. Coming in at over 1000 pages, I�m going to need plenty of time to get stuck in.�

On the audiobook front, what comes after Project Hail Mary? Honestly, I�m not sure. I�m toying with a couple of options right now. Do I try Throne of Glass in audio format, or try to hit some of the lesser page count reads that�ll contribute to the Goodreads Spring 2026 Reading Challenge that way? Honestly, I haven�t decided yet.�

Blog

We�re in for a busy week next week. With the end of the month looming, it�ll soon be time for my monthly wrap-up post to recap progress in May. I enjoy these posts, but they are usually lengthy. I�m looking forward to sharing my progress in May, as well as letting you know for sure if I finish Heir of Fire!�

Next, I�ve got an audiobook review of Witch Hunt due on Thursday. I�ve listened to this audiobook already, so I can start preparing my thoughts ahead of time. Makes a change to be able to not write this last minute!�

After that obligation is taken care of, my June TBR is my next priority. It�s largely shaped by my Completing the Goodreads Spring 2026 Reading Challenge. Where before I kept my options open with book choices, I�m nailing those down in my June TBR based on page count and reading preferences.�

It hardly feels worth mentioning as it�s a given at this point. But, to be clear, I�m back with another Sunday Summary to roundup the week. No surprises there��

YouTube

Today I recorded two videos that I�ll edit and release next week. In line with expectations of my blog content next week, I�ll release my monthly May wrap-up first and then my June TBR shortly thereafter.�

Summary�

Thanks for reading today�s Sunday Summary. It feels like a long one, but I�m pleased to have plenty to share with you! Have you read any of the books I feature today? What are you reading in the coming days?�

Sunday Summary – 24th May 2026

Posted on May 24, 2026 by fantasyst95

Good evening, friends – welcome back to my latest Sunday Summary post! In today�s catch-up, I�ll get you up to speed on the books I�ve been reading this week, as well as recap the content I�ve posted online. That way, if you�ve missed anything, you have the opportunity to catch up.�

Compared to recent weeks, I�d say it�s been a productive one. Certainly on the content front anyway. After a blip a few weeks ago, I�m back to posting content both here on the blog and on YouTube. Now, the only thing I need to get up to speed is the likes of Instagram and my other social media accounts. I�ve never been great with it, but I promise to make more of an effort with those too.�

So, content. What have I posted? Well, here on the blog, a little later than planned, I shared my review of Wizard and Glass by Stephen King. That review was intended to go out towards the beginning of this week. However, I had complex feelings about this book and I wanted to be sure I articulated this right. So, I took my time and ultimately shared this review yesterday.�

Before that though, I posted a First Lines Friday, featuring a book I may get to as part of the Goodreads 2026 Spring Reading Challenge. The particular book in question wasn�t one of my original preferences compared to others on my TBR for the same prompt (Editor�s Picks). However, after reading those opening lines and talking about the book in that post, I may reconsider!�

Over on YouTube, I�ve shared another review. This one was for Dreams From My Father by Barack Obama. If you want to keep more up-to-date with my book reviews, make sure to follow me on YouTube. My reviews on my blog are older – as of writing, I�m a couple of years behind! However, if you are interested in my thoughts on the books I�m reading this year, YouTube is the place to be!�

Finally, earlier today I posted a video version of my Completing the Goodreads 2026 Spring Reading Challenge. If you haven�t read the written version, or don�t have time, maybe go watch/listen to my picks on YouTube��

Books Read

Heir of Fire

Now onto my favourite section of my Sunday Summary – what I�ve read! My reading priority this week is Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas. You may be aware I�m hosting readalongs for the Throne of Glass series. May is the month to complete book 3, Heir of Fire. I confess, I was late finishing Crown of Midnight so I�ve set this readalong to run until 7th June. If you�ve not started yet, there�s still time to read with me.�

As of this Sunday Summary, I�m 20% into the book and I have plans to pick this up again before bed. I�ve picked up a digital copy of Heir of Fire as a library loan. I have around a week left, and also a personal deadline of the end of the month to complete this book. Then, I�ll at least be on track with my own readalong. It�ll be a first, trust me!�

One aspect of the books I love so far is that with each one, the scope and storyline get bigger. At the same time, it all comes together really well and without feeling forced. For a fantasy romance series, the emphasis on the fantasy plot and conflicts outweighs the romance sideline of the book. I�m personally not complaining, as that�s exactly what I was hoping for.�

Naturally, with only 20% progression into the book, there�s only so much I can talk about right now. Let�s hope I can share completion in next week�s Sunday Summary and then tell you more about it!�

Somewhere Beyond the Sea

Progress with Somewhere Beyond the Sea has ticked along steadily this week, and that has been intentional. I�m listening to Somewhere Beyond the Sea in the hopes it qualifies for the Pride Month prompt of the Goodreads 2026 Spring Reading Challenge. Given that�s a month-long event, I�m assuming I�ll need to finish the book in June for it to qualify. With this in mind, I�ve been listening to 30 mins-45 mins a night before bed. That way, completion of this book should fall around the beginning of June.�

My latest position in this audio is that I�m now around 33% into the book. I�d say this is an ideal place to be. With just eight days left in the month, including tonight, I can listen to an hour a day and still just fall into the early June timeline I need.�

Somewhere Beyond the Sea is a beautiful book, and it follows off from The House in the Cerulean Sea well. Although part of that series, it has its own unique storyline that follows on from its predecessor without feeling same-y. We�ll see if that continues, given an aspect of the plot is going to somewhat be reminiscent of the first book (no spoilers here!).�

More to follow on this book in next week�s Sunday Summary. Whilst I plan to not have completed the book by next week�s update, I could cheat a little and read 99% of it� leaving just the final few minutes to finish in June.�

Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon

I had the urge to pick up another title from my May TBR today. Given I�ve been reading Throne of Glass back-to-back, and I acknowledge that�s my fault here, I fancied a change.�

I had a little trouble choosing what to pick up. I steered away from The Great Hunt and Sleeping Beauties because I�m already reading a fantasy book. Both of these have fantasy elements, even if one of these doesn�t strictly call in the fantasy genre. So, that left Don�t Fix Women and Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon. The choice ultimately came down to what I owned and what I didn�t. I had a copy of Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon on my bookshelf ready to be picked up.�

As of this Sunday Summary, I�ve only read the first 20 pages. That said, I appreciated picking up a very different title. I�m also very heavily invested in the subject matter too. Whilst not strictly Game of Thrones (my favourite all-time series), it�s about the filming of the TV series. There�s new stuff for me to explore here. And, if it inspires ANOTHER re-read of this series, well, I won�t be mad. I�ll take any excuse!�

Books Discovered

�All the reading and content creation this week has kept my head down. No new books to the TBR to note here, thank goodness! I have enough with the 230 odd I already have. Wouldn�t you agree?�

Coming Up��

What I�m Reading��

Naturally, next week is planned to be a continuation of this week. Finish Heir of Fire, if I can, or get as close as I can. Mix things up with some Fire Cannot Kill A Dragon here and there if I need a change. Listen to Somewhere Beyond the Sea before bed, or any other opportunity I can. Basically, anything to keep the reading pace up.�

It feels good to be out of the slump I�ve been in recently. I�m also enjoying my current reads, so let�s hope for more of the same!�

Blog

For the first time in a little while, I�m posting a Top Ten Tuesday next week. I�ve been holding out for a topic I�m interested in. Next week�s topic fits in nicely with a YouTube video idea I have. So, it makes sense to do both of these as I can repurpose and reframe some of the content both ways. This week�s topic is My Favourite Books by My Favourite Authors.�

On Friday, I�ll get back to you with a Shelf Control post. The fun about this regular feature is that I get to look ahead at books coming up on my TBR, share them with you, and hype myself for them. Next week, I feature a daring WW2 historical fiction novel with a female lead. I understand it has some romance element to it too – if that�s your cup of tea, be sure to check out that post!�

You know the drill, I�ll be back with another Sunday Summary to round up the week. Will I have reading completions to share with you? I can only hope for a successful week of reading� but time will tell.�

YouTube

Over on YouTube, I�ve recorded one video to share next week already. I�ve got another planned to film tomorrow. So, you won�t be bored! Before those go live, I�ve got my weekly catch-up which should go live early tomorrow.�

Next, I�ll post my review video of a book I read back in February – Grace by A.M. Shine. I�ve already reviewed that book here on my blog. However, I�m endeavouring to record reviews for every book I�ve read this year to share on my channel. So, it was a relatively easy piece of content to produce as I�ve already committed my thoughts. All I�m doing is adapting it to a new medium and hopefully a new audience!�

Finally, in an attempt to help viewers get a feel for who I am as a content creator on that new-to-me platform, I�ve got a video idea to share the books I deem must-read recommendations. It�ll give viewers a feel for my reading taste and the type of content you can expect from me there. I hope you�re as excited for that video as I am!�

Summary�

If you�re still with me, thanks for checking out today�s Sunday Summary. Have you read any of the books I feature in today�s post? Are any on your TBR, or do you have something similar you�d like to recommend?�

Let me know in the comments, and I�ll catch you in the next post ???