Thursday, April 30, 2026

Love Your Library: April 2026 (March 21-April 27)

April has been super busy and that's why this blog is late. I felt like I was constantly having to get something done. On top of that, there are three birthdays in my immediate family this month, including my own. It was my sister's birthday on Monday, so I didn't have the time (or energy) to start this until Tuesday. I don't know why it took this long to write, but it did.

Rant out of the way, welcome to another Love Your Library blog post, I almost didn't write this one, but I haven't missed a Love Your Library blog since March of last year, so I didn't want to lose momentum. This month I have read or listened to 11 books in total. Six of those were library books. All of these were either read as eBooks or listened to as audiobooks.

READ

  • Spider-Man: The Darkest Hours by Jim Butcher, narrated by Jackie Meloche - Peter Parker is now a teacher Midtown High, and when he's asked to coach the basketball team, he also as Spider-Man get a lesson in teamwork. Monsters that feast on animal abilities want Spider-Man for their next meal. This story is packed with cameos and has lots of action and danger. I enjoy that Spider-Man is an adult, and the romance between MJ and Peter is a highlight. As an audiobook, it is fun and an easy listen. ★★★★☆ Listened to on Hoopla CONTENT WARNINGS: Violence, language and kissing.
  • Story Thieves by James Riley, narrated by Kirby Hayborne - Owen loves books, especially the Kiel Gnomenfoot series, however he did not like that the author killed off one of the main characters at the end of the pervious book. Then he learns his classmate Bethany has the ability to jump into books and interact with the book's world. Bethany is half-fictional and her father who also fictional, has been missing since her ninth birthday party. He tells her of a spellbook in the Kiel Gnomenfoot series that would give her the power to find her father. However, Owen takes advantage of her to save the main character and change the story. The result is Bethany and Owen get split up, so that Bethany has to protect the real world from a dangerous fictional character, while Owen fills in for Kiel in the next book's story. This middle grade fantasy was complex, and actions packed with ever growing stakes. While it wrapped up the main story, it had enough cliffhangers to leave me excited for the next book in the series. ★★★★★ Listened to on Libby CONTENT WARNINGS: Mild language, fantasy violence, and peril. Reb's Recs 2026
  • There You'll Find Me by Jenny B. Jones - Ever since her brother's death, Finlay has struggled with her mental health, but she hasn't given up on her dream of steadying music composition in New York. Deciding the best way to heal is to follow her brother's adventure book, she travels Ireland to spend senior year studying abroad. On the plane she meets, teen vampire (actor) heartthrob, Becket Rush. She's not falling for the Hollywood bad boy, especially since this trip is about staying out of trouble and rediscovering her faith. Only, he's staying at the inn her host family runs. Although she will never life up to Hollywood's standards, she finds herself attracted to the boy who love his dog, Ireland, and God. I tried reading this one shortly after watching the movie on Amazon Prime a year ago, but the movie is an imitation Disney Channel romance. The book is so much better. Her struggles feel real; and I laughed, cried, and hoped for her as I could relate to her struggles ★★★★★ Read on Libby CONTENT WARNINGS: Language, kissing, depression, anxiety, eating disorders and Christian views.
  • The Wedding People by Alison Espach, narrated by Helen Laser - Phoebe has been depressed since her before she husband left her for another woman, so after her cat's death, she decides she's going spend her final night in a resort hotel before she ends her life. When she arrives at the hotel everyone else is there for an extravagant weekend wedding. Without explanation, the bride bursts into her hotel room complaining about everything wrong with the wedding and asks Pheobe to take the job of maid of honor. As Phoebe spends time with the wedding people, she begins to find to reasons to live including, Gary who happens to be the groom. This is a comical look at the serious issues of life, middle age, and mental health. However, check the content list on this one, I found it was a story that tread gently with mental health, but very explicitly with car s*x. ★★★★☆ Listened to on Hoopla CONTENT WARNINGS: Adult language, mentions of S*x, including with a car (this scene is described), depression and attempted S*icide (described on page), and LGBTQ+ Characters. 12 Recs From 12 Friends 2026 IG Post
  • Spy X Family, Vol. 12 by Tatsuya Endo, translated by Casey Loe - After the bus hijacking Anya and her friends are heroes to their classmates, but earning another Stella starts to go to her head. A night out with Yor's co-workers makes her consider the health of her fake marriage. A traitorous double agent puts Loid and Yuri on opposite side of a dangerous mission to capture him. This volume was even more exciting than the bus hijacking, and the ending cliffhanger(s) ensured that I picked up the next volume as soon as I finished vol. 12. ★★★★★ Read on Libby CONTENT WARNINGS: Language, graphic violence, characters getting injured.
  • Spy X Family, Vol. 13 by Tatsuya Endo - When Twilight is injured on a mission, the stakes are raised and his cover as Loid Forger is in danger. Anya furthers friendship plan B, with a surprise gift from Daiman! As term finals near, Yor and Anya meet their new neighbors who might be able to help Anya ace her language exam and earn another Stella. This volume was a mix of trilling and cozy, as it covers the end of the previous story and then shows the characters returning to domestic life. ★★★★★ Read on Libby CONTENT WARNINGS: language, graphic violence, and characters getting injured.

    Currently Reading

    • Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins IG Post
    • Climbing Rejection Mountain: An Actor's Path to Success, Stability, and Self-Esteem by Nick Wyman, Michael X. Martin
    • Mighty Marvel Masterworks: The X-Men, Vol. 1: The Strangest Superheroes of All by Stan Lee and illustrated by Jack Kirby
    • Famous Anonymous by Morgan Baden
    • Love Unmasked by Becky Deam

    Checked Out, To Be Read

    • Batman: Resurrection by John Jackson Miller
    • Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys: The Big Lie by Anthony Del Col
    • Love Unmasked by Becky Dean IG Post
    • All for the Game by Heather Buchta
    • Styling for Instagram by Leela Cyd
    • Taste of Home: Spring 26 (Magazine)
    • Rogue Princess by B. R. Myers
    • The Homeschool Bible: Everything you need to build a thriving home education by Mandy Davis

    In The Reservation Queue

    • Star Splitter by Matthew J. Kirby
    • Flirting with Murder by Amanda Sellet
    • Enchanted to Meet You by Cara Stout
    • One Plate at a Time: Recipes for Finding Freedom with Food by Demi Lovato 

    On Hold, To Be Picked Up

    None at this time.

    Returned Unread

    • The Cupcake Cookbook: 30+ Quick and Easy Recipes for Cupcakes - this cupcake cookbook has a unique almost cupcake shape that make it eye catching. I checked it out, and flipped through it, but I didn't make any of the recipes. Ironically, last week I made cupcakes from a different recipe book for a birthday party.
    • Write a Romantasy 99 Writing Prompts to Craft a Tale of heart and heroism by Erik Patterson - This is a book of romantasy writing prompts. I read a couple of them but forgot about the book before I could try any of them.
    • When It's Real by Erin Watt - I saw this title while I was wondering through a bookstore, but I didn't want to buy it, so I got it from my local library. I can't seem to finish a physical book, so I didn't want to start another one.
    • Styling for Instagram by Leela Cyd - This looked like a good book, especially since I do so much photography for Instagram, but I only flipped through it before returning it.
    • Get Clear Career Assessment: Find the Work You Are Wired to Do by Ken Coleman - This past winter I was burned out and trying to decide what would be best for me in the long run. I saw this book at the library and I started reading it. I decided I should take the assessment. I returned the library copy and purchased my own, so I could get a code for the assessment.
    • Rogue Princess by B. R. Myers - I don't remember how I found this book, but it looked a like a fun YA science fiction book. I forgot to read it, until I had to return it, so I immediately checked it back out.
    Thank you for reading this very late edition of Love Your Library. I promise to try harder to get it done earlier next month. The past few months, I have been focused on finishing more of the books from my currently reading list. The Goodreads list, got up to 27 as one point, I've made a lot of headway to get it down to 21 now. The goal is to get it below double digits, but I am too easily enticed by "new" books to only read one or two at a time. I also hope to soon finish some of those physical books that I've been reading from my library. I have one that I'm eight pages from the end, but I've been reading it before bed and only read a page or two before I fall asleep. Thank you again for reading. Below are quick updates on Insgram and my writing.

    This month, I struggled to write reviews. I think I've been writing the same review since March. It's almost done, but since it hasn't been posted yet, I'm including a special bookstack for Nation Pet's Day staring my favorite leading cat, Daisy. I spelled out her name in books. I also did a few other spellstacks this month. Spellstacks also include: spell the month (April), Easter, and ROYGBIV/rainbow stack. One of my goals for next month is to write more reviews.


    I finished a line edit for a Fan fiction piece, but I haven't updated the electronic document yet, so it's not ready to post yet. I must have a had a major case of writer's block this month because all these updates have been about what I didn't write. I might have already shared this blog, but here are some tips to start writing. I should probably refresh and implement some of these for myself.

    #LoveYourLibrary

    Thank you, Rebecca for coming up with this blog challenge that encourages me to read and write every month. Check out her blog, Bookish Beck
    I love making Bookish Friends! Follow me on Instagram Skai_BooksAndBracelets
    Stay up to date on all reading and reviews by following on Goodreads.

    Tuesday, March 31, 2026

    Love Your Library: March 2026 (February 24-March 30)

    Would you believe that it has been a full five weeks since the last Love Your Library? If you read the last one, hello again! And you are awesome! If, this is your first Love Your Library, welcome! You just became awesome! πŸ˜‰ Since it's been five weeks since that last Love Your Library, this list is pretty long. I've read (or listened to) six books, checked out over ten new titles, and returned way more than that. Because this list is so long, I will keep this intro brief so we can get right into it.

    READ

    • When the Day Comes by Gabrielle Meyer, narrated by Rachel Botchan - Libby lives her life in two timelines, in Williamsburg in 1774, and in New York in 1914. After slow start as this title explains the rules of her existence as a time crosser, most notably that she will have to choose one life on her twenty-first birthday, but if she attempts to use her knowledge of the future to change things, she forfeits the life that she attempted to change. I found this story incredibly predictable but loved the emotional depth of the writing. I was mad for and cried for our heroine as she faced each challenge and decided what was most important to her. ★★★★★ Listened to on Hoopla CONTENT WARNINGS: Mild language, Christan views, war, and death
    • Predator Vs. Prey by Lisa McMann, narrated by Shannon McManus - Charlie and her friends may have cool bracelets that give them animal superpowers, but after her dad is kidnapped, things are even more dangerous. As spring break approaches, they sacrifice their break to help her dad's scientist friends. This is very much a middle book of the trilogy series. I could feel Charlie's struggle to save her dad and get back to normality as I struggled to get through a story that didn't have the same excitement as the first book. ★★★★☆ Listened to on Hoopla CONTENT WARNINGS: Mild language, fantasy violence, and peril 
    • A Knight Before Christmas by Cara Stout - I would like to think, this is the last Christmas book until this year's Christmas season, but I think I've already said that twice. Ripley and Garrick are two teens with no desire to find love, but Ripley's mom needs a bachelor to be the star of her teen dating show. Garrick's family owns a fairytale theme amusement park. To help make ends meet, they allow a teen dating show to film during the holiday season. As they work together for the reality show, they begin to bond, but the show's success is more important than finding love. Overall, this was well written, with an interesting plot and character. The love story annoyed me at times. The romance was innocent, but it often felt rebellious and wrong. ★★★★☆ Read on Libby CONTENT WARNINGS: Some language, grief, LGBTQ+ characters, and kissing.
    • All Around the Town by Mary Higgins Clark, narrated, by Kate Forbes - This thriller had a lengthy setup. Readers meet a large cast of characters including a brilliant young lawyer, her trouble but charismatic younger sister, a beloved professor, a TV preacher, a veteran private detective, and a progressive psychist. With so many character, it took a long time to get into the actual mystery and excitement. This novel was first published the late eighties so, besides the fact that it follows some more characters more likeable than others, the other aspect that was hard to get through was the old serotypes of mental health and psychiatry. ★★★★☆ Listened to on Hoopla CONTENT WARNINGS: Grief, strong language, violence, mentions child kidnapping and r*pe, s*x, smoking, mental health disorders including multiple personality disorder, depression and s*icide IG Post
    • North of Nowhere by Liz Kessler - Mia's spring break is ruined by her grandfather's sudden disappearance. Instead of spending the week hanging out with her friends, she travels to the small seaside town where her grandparents live. A town where there are no kids, no cell service, and no internet, however the discovery of a beautiful journal on an old fishing boat starts her on her own journey. This book is more action packed than, A Year Without Autumn by Liz Kessler which I read last year. It wasn't as emotionally deep, but the time travel and mystery all wrapped up nicely into a fun coming-of-age adventure. ★★★★★ Read on Libby CONTENT WARNINGS: Mild language, some peril and danger
    • Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 9: Ultimate Six by Brian Michael Bendis, Trevor Hairsine, and Mark Bagley - Volume 9 focuses on the story of the Ultimate Sinister Six as Green Goblin, Dr. Octopus, Electro, Kraven the Hunter, Sandman, and... Spider-Man declare war on the Oval Office. I was disappointed because we don't even see any of Peter Parker until halfway through this volume, and he don't do much in this dramatic tale. It is mostly an origin story of the different villains of the Sinister Six, but Bendis and couldn't even find a sixth villain and threw everyone's favorite friendly neighborhood wall-crawler onto the team. ★★★ Read on Hoopla CONTENT WARNINGS: language, and graphic violence

    Currently Reading

    • Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins
    • Climbing Rejection Mountain: An Actor's Path to Success, Stability, and Self-Esteem by Nick Wyman, Michael X. Martin
    • Mighty Marvel Masterworks: The X-Men, Vol. 1: The Strangest Superheroes of All by Stan Lee and illustrated by Jack Kirby
    • Spider-Man: The Darkest Hours by Jim Butcher
    • Nancy Drew: The Palace of Wisdom by Kelly Thompson, illustrated by St. Onge
    • Famous Anonymous by Morgan Baden 

    Checked Out, To Be Read

    • Big Bad Me by Aislinn O'Loughlin
    • How to Write a Romance Novel: A beginner's guide to getting it written and getting it published by Susan Palmquist
    • Rebel Rose by Emma Theriault
    • Stargirl, Season one (DVD)
    • Find the Work You Are Wired to Do: Get Clear Career Assessment by Ken Coleman
    • How to Survive a Horror Movie by Scarlett Dunmore
    • Unofficial Taylor Swift Friendship Bracelets: 33 bead designs through the eras
    • Secrets of Riverway by Ashley Hards
    • Four Days a Week: The Life-changing solution for reducing employee stress, improving wellbeing, and working smarter by Juliet Schor
    • Power Rangers; Force of Chaos by Diana Ma
    • Famous Anonymous by Morgan Baden
    • Paw & Order, 1: The Grilled Cheese Caper by Jason Platt
    • Syllabus: Notes from an accidental professor by Lynda Barry 

    In The Reservation Queue

    • Star Splitter by Matthew J. Kirby
    • Flirting with Murder by Amanda Sellet
    • Story Thieves by James Riley
    • Enchanted to Meet You by Cara Stout

    On Hold, To Be Picked Up

    None at this time.

    Returned Unread

    • Big Mad Me by Aislinn O'Loughlin - I had to return the last of the books that I checked out back in October for October Mysteries and Thrillers. I didn't get around to reading these, but they were the ones I most thought I would enjoy. On a related note, this year, I've been trying to read more mystery, thriller and horror books, looking for some good ones to suggest this year. Yes, I am already planning on returning this for a fourth year. IG Post
    • Writing Crime Fiction by Rosemary Rowe - I checked out a few books in October about writing and outlining because I wanted to start work on a standalone story during Novel November.
    • How to Write a Romance Novel: A beginner's guide to getting it written and getting it published by Susan Palmquist - Also checked out for potentially outlining a standalone novel. I was not sure if I would write a mystery or a romance.
    • Descent by Roland Smith -Used during October Mysteries and thrillers. I thought I might read this one but didn't get around to it.
    • A Beautiful and Terrible Murder by Claire M. Andrews - For October Mysteries and Thrillers. I would like to read this Sherlock and Moriarty reimagining. 
    • Happy Bento! Lunches on the go by Anna Adden - I Stumbled onto this book full of colorful lunches, but it was more of an aesthetic book than a recipe book. 
    • The Jump by Brittney Morris - I used this title for January's Spell the Month stack and returned it when I need to make more room on my library card.
    • Sanctuary by Caryn Lix - I paired this with Aliens for October Mysteries and Thrillers. I thought I might read this book, didn't get around to it.
    • Underworld (DVD) - I was supposed to watch this Vampires vs. Werewolves movie back in October. I was really busy the last couple weeks of October. Between preparing for a showcase and attending a conference for work, I didn't have the time. When I was saw that this was due, I finally pulled the DVD off the dusty shelf and watched it. The Drum Show (His drum covers are available to watch on YouTube. He's very talented.) suggested Underworld along with three other horror movies. There were so much depth and mystery to this story about a centuries long feud. I think the romance was a little one way, but the underlying mysteries were very well done. All the visuals and costumes nicely blended modern and medieval.
    • Syllabus: Notes from an accidental professor by Lynda Barry - I heard about this book while I was looking for ways to encourage my creativity and writing, but it's in high demand so I quickly had to return it.
    • The Wild Trials by Mackenzie Reed - Here is another one I found while I was doing October Mysteries and Thrillers and wanted to read.
    • Miss Austen Investigate: The Hapless Milliner by Jessica Bull - I saw this title as recommended by another blogger during Five Fall Favorites. I thought it was perfect for October Mysteries and Thrillers. Then I wanted to try reading it.
    • Power Rangers: Force of Chaos by Diana Ma - I saw this one while I was browsing at a bookstore and wanted to read it, but I didn't want to buy it.
    Between this month's period being so long, and it being exactly five months from October, when I shared mysteries and thrillers on Instagram, I had so many library items to track. I have really been trying to finish books this year. I really want to clean up my Goodreads currently reading. Currently, I have 23 books, but finishing 6 titles in the past month has brought down that number from 27. Yes, that means I've started only four fewer titles than I have finished in that time. I finished all four titles from February and March for both my sister's recommendations and 12 Recs from 12 Friends. Overall, I feel like I will be starting April fresh and can tackle some new titles.  I hope to have news about new and upcoming projects next month. Keep reading below updates on my Instagram and a timely short story. Thank you for reading!


    I have been back to posting on Instagram for the past month. Over that time, I have averaged three posts a week and written four reviews. My most recent review is for an ARC that I received from Norton Young Readers and Netgalley. Codebreakers: The Wish Ring Cipher by Alexandra Ott is a new middle grade adventure novel and features authentic characters with autism. If you would like to read more, the full review is on Instagram and Goodreads.


    I have been working on editing old fan fictions stories. When I finally get those edits done, I will post and share the link here. Today's story is one that was inspired by a conversation I had when I invited the security guard at my university to church for Easter. With Easter happening this Sunday, it felt like a fitting time to share this story. Happy Easter! Thank you again for reading!

    #LoveYourLibrary

    Thank you, Rebecca for coming up with this blog challenge that encourages me to read and write every month. Check out her blog, Bookish Beck
    I love making Bookish Friends! Follow me on Instagram Skai_BooksAndBracelets
    Stay up to date on all reading and reviews by following on Goodreads.

    Monday, February 23, 2026

    Love Your Library: February 2026 (January 27th-February 23rd)

    Welcome or welcome back to the second Love Your Library post of 2026! I have not yet, returned to Instagram, so for the month of February, this has been the only place to see what I've been reading (or would like to read. More on that at the end). This month all of my completed library reading were eBooks or digital audiobooks. I'm trying to finish some of my current physical books, but I am finding physical books have now become my slowest reading method. In the past month, my library reading is a 3:1 ratio of eBooks to audiobooks, with 0 finished physical books. Since February is the shortest month, there's not very much on my library reading that's changed since the January post. Here is my February library reading:

    READ

    • A Whole New World: A Twisted Tale by Liz Braswell - This Aladdin inspired story is the second book I've read in the Twisted Tales series. I enjoyed it better than the one based on Sleeping Beauty. The first third was exactly like the movie, and it felt very slow, after the story was past the point where it diverged from the movie, it got more interesting. While I enjoyed the innocent romantasy and seeing Jasmine become a leader, I felt like the characters were lacking depth. One thing, I found refreshing about this story was that it accurately portrayed a military dictator, even though some characters were fooled by Jaffar's initial generosity, there is no attempt to sugarcoat his motives. ★★★☆☆ Read on Libby CONTENT WARNINGS: Mild language, violence and death
    • My Hero Academia, Vol.1 by Kohei Horikoshi, translated by Caleb D. Cook - Since my sisters have been watching the anime, I've seen a few of the episodes with them. It's interesting, but because I am only seeing one or two episodes at a time, I have no idea what is going on. I enjoy superhero stories, and the characters have been fun, so I decided to try to manga. There was so much worldbuilding and explanation in the first few chapters. It explained so much. I will continue reading; besides that, I don't want to say more. I won't do it justice or start spoil the story. All I'll say is it has action, drama, and made me want to root for the underdog. ★★★★☆ Read on Libby CONTENT WARNINGS: Language, violence, characters getting injured
    • Some Like It Scot by Pepper Basham, narrated by Joshua Manning and Stina Nielsen - I loved this Christan romance. It was so sweet. Katie and Graeme had a comical opposites-attract, grumpy-sunshine dynamic. Katie was a ray of sunshine looking to share the stories of those she meets on her travels, avoid her own stories, while Graeme is cranky, holding tight to those he cares most for to abate his own grief. Spending three weeks together in at Scottish manner in the beautiful countryside, they learn about trusting God and turning to Him for healing and love. ★★★★★ Listened to on Libby CONTENT WARNINGS: Mild language, grief, kissing
    • Nothing Like to Movies by Lynn Painter - Here is the sequel to Better Than the Movies. While I found the first book average and annoying, I devoured this second story. When it picks up two years later with Liz and Wes, not only is the character growth apparent, but the author's growth in writing abilities also stands out. As I started the book, it feels like Painter only flipped the narrative of the first book to have Wes be the one grieving a parent's death. I like how in the two years Liz had come out of her shell, and Wes had changed too (I won't spoil how), but when they reconnect their banter-teasing, really is worthy of a rom-com. The first book was about two kids discovering that falling in love is better than the movies, while this second one is about two young adults realizing that real love is nothing like the movies. ★★★★★ Read on Libby CONTENT WARNINGS: Grief, Adult language, underage drinking, kissing, mentions of s*x, LGBTQ+ characters

    Currently Reading

    • Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins
    • Climbing Rejection Mountain: An Actor's Path to Success, Stability, and Self-Esteem by Nick Wyman, Michael X. Martin
    • A Knight Before Christmas by Cara Stout
    • Mighty Marvel Masterworks: The X-Men, Vol. 1: The Strangest Superheroes of All by Stan Lee and illustrated by Jack Kirby
    • When the Day Comes by Gabrielle Meyer
    • Predator Vs. Prey by Lisa McMann

    Checked Out, To Be Read

    • How to Survive a Horror Movie by Scarlett Dunmore
    • Mighty Marvel Masterworks: The X-Men by Stan Lee
    • Blind Date with a book: On the Wings of La Noche by Vanessa L. Torris
    • My Fair Monster by Adrienne Rivera

    In The Reservation Queue

    • Famous Anonymous 1 by Morgan Baden
    • Star Splitter by Matthew J. Kirby
    • Paw and Order 1 The Grilled Cheese Caper by Jason Platt
    • A Heart for Christmas by Sophie Jomain
    • Syllabus: notes from an accidental professor by Lynda Barry
    • How to Survive a Horror Movie by Scarlett Dunmore

    On Hold, To Be Picked Up

    None at this time.

    Returned Unread

    • Murder on a School Night by Kate Weston - When I read the synopsis for this one, I thought it would be a fun mystery. I checked this book out, then it stuck in that same pile of books I keep forgetting to read.
    • Mighty Marvel Masterworks: The X-Men by Stan Lee - I'm actually in the middle of this one, I've been reading a page or two before falling asleep, so I'm getting through it at a snail's pace. I checked it right back out so I can keep crawling through it.
    • Cupcakes for any occasion: 50 clever creations anyone can make by Rachel Lindsay - I skimmed this cookbook, but I ended up not making any of the recipes. The recipes were more about cute cupcake decorating rather than baking. 
    • How to Survive a Horror Movie by Scarlett Dunmore - I saw this one while I was looking for books for October Mysteries and Thrillers over on Instagram. I only recently got my hold, I wanted to read it, but I also want to finish my current book first, so I didn't start this one.
    Relatively speaking, this is a small list of my library reads that well matches the shortest month of the year. In the past month, I've done quite a bit of eReading. With the physical books, I've been trying to finish many of my own books, so I currently only have two physical books on my "Currently Reading" list. I hope to have Sunrise of the Reaping done soon. The teaser for the movie, has already been released, so I really need to get finishing the book. Maybe I'll finally go the one of the movies in the theatre. I think my sister, who doesn't even read the books has seen more Hunger Games movies in theaters than I have. Because she has seen one (or two), while I've been to zero. In the returned, unread category, I have a handful of books that were due on Saturday, but since my local library has done away with daily late fines, as long as I bring them back, I will not be charged for them. I will return them tomorrow, so you will see them reflected on next month's blog. Please come back for that!


     I will be returning to Instagram, today! I have several posts ready to go. My first post will be my January Reading Wrap-Up. On, this blog, there have been three posts since the last Love Your Library post, all for the TBR Love blog party, shared during Valentine's weekend. Links for those are down below the graphic. To close off this blog, I will tease, that I've been polishing a Fan Fiction that I wrote back during 2020. When I've finished with that, I will post it. I hope to make it my blog or fiction piece that I share during next month's Love Your Library. So, thank you for reading and please come back!


    Earlier in February, I participated in the To Be Read Love blog party, hosted by Once Upon an Ordinary. Honestly, I feel like I owe Kate and the other bloggers an apology. I messed up on the dates and was blogging a day behind the group. Then I didn't have time to review everyone else's blogs during the weekend. If you would like to read my day late TBR Love posts, you can find them here.


    #LoveYourLibrary

    Thank you, Rebecca for coming up with this blog challenge that encourages me to read and write every month. Check out her blog, Bookish Beck
    I love making Bookish Friends! Follow me on Instagram Skai_BooksAndBracelets
    Stay up to date on all reading and reviews by following on Goodreads.

    Sunday, February 15, 2026

    Day 3 | TBR Love Party 2026: Books I want to Buddy Read

     

    Welcome to my third day of TBR Love! 

    I apologize that I am a day behind. I don't know why, but my memory and planning failed me. I genuinely thought this blog party ran from Friday-Sunday, even though I knew the dates were the 12th-14th. I am currently on a break from Instagram because my mind, soul, and body have needed some time off, but apparently it hasn't been enough.

    If you are reading this late blog, I truly appreciate you! I love doing these. Writing and books are two of my happy places and I've been trying to lean into happy spaces lately.

    Another thing I've been trying to lean into is community, and one way for bookish people to do that is through today's TBR topic, 5 TBR Books I Want to Buddy-Read!


    For today's Buddy-Read books, I have chosen titles that were recommended to me by others. I have shared the social media for each person who recommended me the book and managed to find their posts for three of the five books, so you can read their thoughts too. I wanted to make this a very community-oriented blog.

    Every book on this list was recommended to me by another reader. Four out of the five books were recommended to me on Instagram. During last November and December, I solicited book suggestions for the 12 Recommendations from 12 Friends reading challenge. I got a few dozen book suggestions and did some research into each book. I checked Goodreads reviews, mostly looking at the writing and content for if it were something I would enjoy. Next, I checked to see if I could I get it through my local library as an audiobook, because I still haven't finished the one title I tried to read as a physical book in 2025. For today, I picked four from the 12 that I thought would be good buddy reads. The final book I'm sharing is one my sister recommended. We have our own semi-buddy-read going. We recommend books to each other that we've already read. Here are the 5 TBR books I want to Buddy-Read.

    *Side note: TBR is an acronym for "to be read."

    1. The Crash by Freida McFadden

    With the movie release of her book, The Housemaid starring Sydney Sweeny and Amanda Seyfried, the thriller author, Freida McFadden has been a popular topic on Bookstagram. Thiller is now one of my go-to genres, but I haven't read any of her books. I had two of her stories recommended to me, Ward D and The Crash. After looking up both titles to check content and reviews, I decided to pick The Crash. I would like to thank @Reading2A_T for this recommendation, you can read about her thoughts on Instagram.

    Synopsis from Goodreads:

    A brand new psychological thriller from #1 New York Times bestselling author Freida McFadden!

    The nightmare she's running from is nothing compared to where she's headed.

    Tegan is eight months pregnant, alone, and desperately wants to put her crumbling life in the rearview mirror. So she hits the road, planning to stay with her brother until she can figure out her next move. But she doesn't realize she's heading straight into a blizzard.

    She never arrives at her destination.

    Stranded in rural Maine with a dead car and broken ankle, Tegan worries she's made a terrible mistake. Then a miracle occurs: she is rescued by a couple who offers her a room in their warm cabin until the snow clears.

    But something isn't right. Tegan believed she was waiting out the storm, but as time ticks by, she comes to realize she is in grave danger. This safe haven isn't what she thought it was, and staying here may have been her most deadly mistake yet.

    And now she must do whatever it takes to save herself―and her unborn child.

    A gut-wrenching story of motherhood, survival, and twisted expectations, #1 New York Times bestselling author Freida McFadden delivers a snowbound thriller that will chill you to the bone.


    2. The Wedding People by Alison Espach

    When The Wedding People by Alison Espach was suggested to me, I had already heard of it because it was a Read with Jenna celebrity book club pick. However, when I read the synopsis and reviews, I was very surprised by what it was about. The range of words used this describe this title is astonishing, everything from chaotic, to heartfelt, to comedic, to deep. Frankly, what finally sold it was that I could get it as an audiobook from my library, with no wait. I would like to thank @ReadBetweenTheLines021 for your recommendation. You can read her review on Instagram.

    Synopsis from Goodreads:

    A propulsive and uncommonly wise novel about one unexpected wedding guest and the surprising people who help her start anew.

    It’s a beautiful day in Newport, Rhode Island, when Phoebe Stone arrives at the grand Cornwall Inn wearing a green dress and gold heels, not a bag in sight, alone. She's immediately mistaken by everyone in the lobby for one of the wedding people, but she’s actually the only guest at the Cornwall who isn’t here for the big event. Phoebe is here because she’s dreamed of coming for years—she hoped to shuck oysters and take sunset sails with her husband, only now she’s here without him, at rock bottom, and determined to have one last decadent splurge on herself. Meanwhile, the bride has accounted for every detail and every possible disaster the weekend might yield except for, well, Phoebe and Phoebe's plan—which makes it that much more surprising when the two women can’t stop confiding in each other.

    In turns absurdly funny and devastatingly tender, Alison Espach’s The Wedding People is ultimately an incredibly nuanced and resonant look at the winding paths we can take to places we never imagined—and the chance encounters it sometimes takes to reroute us.



    3. The House on Foster Hill by Jamie Jo Wright

    Before The House on Foster Hill by Jamie Jo Wright was recommended to me on IG, I had seen it shared as one of someone's Five Fall Favorite books. If I remembered who it was, I would also link to their page, sorry. What I do remember is that that the blogger had made this book sound interesting enough that I checked to see if it was available from the local library. Then when it was recommended to me for one of the 12 Friends picks, I had to add it to my reading list. In addition to thanking the blogger, I wish I could remember who it was, I would also like thank @JanyreTromp for her recommendation too. She is also an author, you can learn about her most recent book on Instagram, The Scorpion Thief.

    Synopsis from Goodreads:

    Kaine Prescott is no stranger to death. When her husband died two years ago, her pleas for further investigation into his suspicious death fell on deaf ears. In desperate need of a fresh start, Kaine purchases an old house sight unseen in her grandfather's Wisconsin hometown. But one look at the eerie, abandoned house immediately leaves her questioning her rash decision. And when the house's dark history comes back with a vengeance, Kaine is forced to face the terrifying realization she has nowhere left to hide.

    A century earlier, the house on Foster Hill holds nothing but painful memories for Ivy Thorpe. When an unidentified woman is found dead on the property, Ivy is compelled to discover her identity. Ivy's search leads her into dangerous waters and, even as she works together with a man from her past, can she unravel the mystery before any other lives—including her own—are lost?


    4. What the River Knows by Isabel IbaΓ±ez

    Young Adult is my comfort genre, so I keep my eyes on popular releases. What the River Knows by Isabel IbaΓ±ez was one that I heard about first when it was released. I don't remember where. I might have initially seen it while checking out the new and upcoming releases on Goodreads. Since then, it's been a "might read" for me. When it was recommended I read some reviews and added it to my list. Thank you, @Baby_Got_Stacks for recommending it. Check out her thought as she was partway through it on Instagram.

    Synopsis from Goodreads:

    The Mummy meets Death on the Nile in What the River Knows, Isabel IbaΓ±ez's lush, immersive historical fantasy set in Egypt and filled with adventure, a rivals-to-lovers romance, and a dangerous race.

    Bolivian-Argentinian Inez Olivera belongs to the glittering upper society of nineteenth century Buenos Aires, and like the rest of the world, the town is steeped in old world magic that's been largely left behind or forgotten. Inez has everything a girl might want, except for the one thing she yearns the most: her globetrotting parents-who frequently leave her behind.

    When she receives word of their tragic deaths, Inez inherits their massive fortune and a mysterious guardian, an archeologist in partnership with his Egyptian brother-in-law. Yearning for answers, Inez sails to Cairo, bringing her sketch pads and a golden ring her father sent to her for safekeeping before he died. But upon her arrival, the old world magic tethered to the ring pulls her down a path where she soon discovers there's more to her parent's disappearance than what her guardian led her to believe.

    With her guardian's infuriatingly handsome assistant thwarting her at every turn, Inez must rely on ancient magic to uncover the truth about her parent's disappearance-or risk becoming a pawn in a larger game that will kill her.


    5. Predator Vs. Prey by Lisa McMann

    While the first four books were recommended by friends from Instagram, this fifth book is different, Predator Vs. Prey by Lisa McMann is different. This fifth book was recommended to me by my sister, you can read all about Reb's Recs on my blog; however, I'm behind on it. Last year's blog is published but not finished. Meanwhile, I haven't even started this year's blog. For this year, I asked Rebecca to suggest a couple of sequels for books I read last year, that she would recommend. I have started Predator Vs. Prey but haven't finished it yet. I'm only thirty-five minutes (6%) into the audiobook. Charlie and her friends are back and, in even more trouble, but now they all have animal powers to help them. Lisa McMann is an author from the state where I live, and her daughter Kennedy McMann played Nancy Drew in the recent CW show, fun fact πŸ˜‰. I would also like to thank my sister, Rebecca for her recommendation, however she doesn't have a Bookstagram, so I can't tag her here.

    Synopsis from Goodreads:

    In Predator vs. Prey, Charlie Wilde’s dad has been abducted by masked figures who might not even be completely human. And it will take more than her incredible bracelet—which gives her powers from the animal kingdom—to rescue him.

    Luckily, Charlie’s friends now have bracelets of their own with all-new abilities… they just have to work through a few issues first. Maria’s device has hair-raising side effects. Mac can’t wait to hack into his. And their frenemy, Kelly, swears hers is a dud. If Charlie is going to have any hope of saving her dad—and the world—from their beastly foes, she’ll have to help her friends master their powers and come together as a team.

    Conclusion

    These are the five books, I think would make good buddy-reads. Even if I don't buddy read them, I have already engaged with the bookish community to find these recommendations. Frankly, that's one of the most fun ways to get reading suggestions. This year I am hosting a 12 Recs From 12 Friends book challenge and engagement group. If it goes well, so far, it's been alright, I will reopen the group for new and returning members in fall 2026 for 2027. That's a great way to get book recommendations and a few buddy reads have been initiated by that group. If that interests you, give me a follow me on Instagram or check back here later in the year. 

    Another way to get buddy reads is by asking your reader friends or family for suggestions, like my sister and I do. This month I'm reading Predator Vs. Prey by Lisa McMann, and my sister has already finished Finlay Donovan by Elle Cosimano. I recommended it to her because I read it and loved it last year as one of my 12 Recs from 12 Friends titles.

    Looking forward, I plan to post the next Love Your Library on Monday, February 23rd, and I think I will be returning to Instagram either this coming week (February 16th) or the following week (February 23rd).

    Thank you so much for reading and if you were also blogging this weekend, for joining me on this exploration of the books we would like to read. I hope to see you again this fall for Five Fall Favorites, and I promise I will try to have my stuff better together, so my blogs aren't all a day late. Finally, thank you, Kate for this mini-blog party. I'm sure you blessed everyone. I know this has been such a blessing for me. Thank you so much for putting this together.

    Which book do you think I should start with? Would you like to buddy read any of these with me? Or what books would you like to buddy read?

    Hosted by Kate from Once Upon an Ordinary!

    I love meeting new booklovers! Best way to do that is to follow me: Instagram: @Skai_BooksAndBracelets
    Read Friday's blog here: Day 1 | TBR Love Party 2026: Books I'm Scared to Read

    Friday, February 13, 2026

    Day 2 | TBR Love Party 2026: Books on My Wishlist

    Welcome to day two of TBR Love! And happy Valentine's Day! Today, I will wear black and listen to sad songs, to mourning my non-existent love life. Just kidding, I am working today and am wearing work appropriate clothes, and I can't listen to sad music while I'm working with the public, but I might while I'm on my lunch. We'll see. πŸ˜‰

    I hope you all enjoyed yesterday, reading about "the books I really keep trying read, but can't" with 5 TBR Books I'm Scared to Read. If you haven't read it, you can find a link to it at the bottom of this blog. While yesterday's blog was about looking back, today's blog is about looking forward at my future TBR books. Today's theme is 5 TBR Books I Need to Buy.


    I have a caveat on today's topic; I didn't quite stick with the prompt. I picked five upcoming releases for TBR* books to share; however, I try very to not every book that I would like to read. Most of these books are ones I'm reading from Netgalley or will read from my local library after they release. So, that's how I didn't quite stick to the prompt, and why I titled this blog, "Books on My Wishlist." Here are 5 books that are on my Wishlist to read, whether or not I purchase any of them.

    *Side note: TBR stands for "to be read."

    1. What We Did to Survive by Megan Lally

    This one was recommended to me on Instagram by @AngieAroundWonderland while I was looking for this year's 12 Recs from 12 Friends books. (I will talk more about that tomorrow.) Ended up, that I did not pick this for that 12, but when I noticed that What we Did to Survive by Megan Lally had not yet released, I checked Netgalley to see it was available as a digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC or DRC). I was floored when, I got approved to pre-read this one. So, it's currently downloaded to my phone and iPad for me to read before it releases. I guess I better get on that now as its expected release date is March 31, 2026. 

    Synopsis from Goodreads:

    A vacation in paradise turns deadly when four teens' sailing charter hits stormy seas in this propulsive new thriller from New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Megan Lally!

    Hannah is having an incredible spring break. A week at a resort in Mexico with her best friend Emmy and her family is perfect for de-stressing from senior year, even if it’s awkward being around Emmy's older brother, Jackson, who she’s had a crush on for as long as she can remember.

    Still, the beach is gorgeous. So is the guy they meet in the surf. Except Hannah is now the third wheel in Emmy’s vacation romance.

    Eager to impress Emmy, her wealthy new boyfriend charters a private sailboat to make the most of their last day in paradise, and Hannah and Jackson are invited along. As the clouds roll in and the skies darken, their boat is the only one leaving the marina. And the further they get into open water, the more unsettled Hannah becomes. A storm is brewing onboard that’s as deadly as the one racing toward them. Forget surviving graduation. Who will make it back to land alive?


    2. Immortal Rose by Alexandra Bracken

    Immortal Rose by Alexandra Bracken is this YA author's debut adult novel. I don't know much about this book yet, even the cover was only recently announced. So far, I know that it is an adult romantasy, so it might prove to be spicier than I usually read or recommend, but I loved Bracken's YA romantasy, Silver in the Bone (More about Silver in the Bone at the link). Additionally, Bracken is an author from my hometown. I've met her at a couple of local bookish events; however, I think she presently lives in New York. Unless I learn that this book is absolute smut, I will check it out either when it releases or if I can get an ARC before its release. The projected release date is August 18, 2026.

    Synopsis from Goodreads:

    This deluxe limited hardcover edition features beautiful stenciled edges and illustrated endpapers —available on the first printing only!

    From Alexandra Bracken, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Lore, comes a stunningly original adult fantasy. Set in a sumptuous world ruled by magical perfume, this achingly romantic, slow-burn love story will shatter your heart and leave you breathless.

    Members of the ancient House Rosebourne have a strange gift born of a fairy ancestor: the ability to infuse fragrance with magic capable of manipulating mind, body, and emotion.

    When a shocking murder leaves the kingdom of Albion vulnerable to a coup, royal spymaster Hugh Thornton seeks the one person who can help: Viola Lockwood, the last living Rosebourne and secret heir to a fraught legacy.

    Livid at the silver-eyed aristocrat who had her thrown in jail to force her compliance, Viola nevertheless comes to an agreement with him. In exchange for crafting Immortal Rose, the singular perfume capable of saving Albion, illegitimate Viola can seize the life—and fortune—that should have been hers.

    As Hugh and Viola race to find the perfume’s lost fairy ingredient, hidden deep in Albion’s dark underbelly, neither can deny the scorching attraction building between them—especially as the attempts on Viola’s life grow increasingly brazen.

    But a terrible truth lurks in the heart notes of their kingdom—and while every bargain has a cost, Immortal Rose may demand more than Hugh and Viola can ever pay.



    3. The Escape Game by Marissa Meyer and Tamara Moss

    Last fall, I heard about this upcoming escape-room-mystery-thriller. I have been attending virtual bookfair's and book webinars to learn more about developing a library's collection. When I saw that Marissa Meyer, the author of so many great YA and middle grade novels across multiple genres, was writing a mystery-thriller, I don't think I even read the synopsis, I simply requested the DRC on Netgalley, or possibly it was offered as a digital freebie as part of a bookfair. To be honest, I don't remember anymore. I've read the first few chapters, and it is setting up for a dangerous and dramatic escape-room story. The Escape Game by Marissa Meyer and Tamara Moss should release on April 7, 2026.

    Synopsis from Goodreads:

    An unforgettable YA murder mystery set in an escape-room themed game show, by Marissa Meyer, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Lunar Chronicles, and Tamara Moss, rising star and acclaimed author of Lintang series.

    It’s all fun and games until someone ends up dead.

    Six months ago, season four of The Escape Game ended in horror when contestant Alicia Angelos was found murdered on set.

    Now season five is underway, and new contestants are ready to put their skills to the test solving the show's trickiest escape rooms. There's Adi, the cryptographer; Carter, the math whiz; Beck, the wannabe game master, and . . . Sierra Angelos, the girl who got away with her sister’s murder. Or so everyone believes.

    But Sierra’s not just here to win. She’s here for justice.

    When the contestants begin uncovering clues that hint at the identity of Alicia’s true killer, it becomes clear that the stakes aren’t high in this competition, they’re deadly. If these teens want to win—and survive—the game, they must solve the biggest mystery of who killed Alicia Angelos?

    From #1 New York Times bestselling author Marissa Meyer and rising star Tamara Moss comes a twisty thrill-ride, filled with sabotage, betrayal, and puzzles to die for.


    4. Adversary to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

    Introducing the fourth book in the Assistant to the Villain series, Adversary to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer is estimated to release August 4, 2026. I have been listening to this book series as an audiobook since the first book which I listened to shortly after the second book released in 2024. From the beginning, I was charmed by Evie's humor, clumsiness, and love for the people around her. These books are comical but have a serious fantasy world, while including nods at many things in the real world. (I'm looking at you cauldron brew...and you look suspiciously like coffee to me. πŸ‘€) I can't wait until book four releases. Each book has ended with a plot twist that raises the stakes for the main characters. The full synopsis has yet to be released, I discovered the release for this book when I started looking for upcoming books for this blog.

    Synopsis from Goodreads:

    The follow-up to the New York Times bestselling sensations Assistant to the VillainApprentice to Villain, and Accomplice to the Villain by laugh-out-loud TikTok darling Hannah Nicole Maehrer.


    5. Teen Titans: Together Kami Garcia and Gabriel Picolo

    This is book six in the DC Teen Titans graphic novel series that started with Teen Titans: Raven back in 2019. I read the first book in this series long before I started reviewing books on Instagram, but I wrote a review for this book, while I was going through old books, I'd previously loved. You can read that review here. I actually have yet to read every book in this series. I've kind of popped in and popped out when the main character is been interesting to me. I love Raven, I was first introduced to her by the early 2000s animated show, Teen Titans. Between her purple hair and moody disposition, she was always my favorite. While I was reading the early books in this series, I wanted to see all the Teen Titans together and seven years later on (expected publication date) August 4, 2026, the fans are finally getting it.

    Synopsis from Goodreads:

    The highly anticipated team-up is finally here! Join #1 New York Times bestselling author KAMI GARCIA (Beautiful Creatures) and artist GABRIEL PICOLO, the creative duo behind the New York Times bestselling TEEN TITANS graphic novel series, for the ultimate showdown!
    H.I.V.E. has been experimenting on teens with super-human abilities, and Kori Anders was next on their list. Dick Grayson, Raven Roth, Garfield Logan, Max Navarro, and Damian Wayne got to Los Angeles to save her before Slade Wilson found her, but should she trust these strangers? After all, they've accused her mom's fiancΓ© of abduction, experimentation, and torture! And Kori's new friend, Victor Stone, has a summer internship designing next-level prosthetics in Edge Labs, a company funding H.I.V.E.

    To make matters worse, Kori's sister, Kira, is working with the organization and singing their praises. H.I.V.E. has a plan for taking down Raven's demon father, Trigon. They've got a plan for training the next generation of superheroes. They've got plans for everything.

    Lines blur as the teens struggle to decide what to do. H.I.V.E. might be their greatest ally...but at what cost? Can the Teen Titans pull together a plan before they fall apart?

    Conclusion

    These are five books that are on my Wishlist. Will I buy any of these? I don't know. Possibly. The sprayed edges in the photo of The Escape Game look almost too pretty to pass up. However, I've already started reading the ARC, so maybe I'll read the book and decide the story isn't quite something I want to own. I try to only buy older books that might not be able to read from the library and used copies of popular titles that have long wait lines from the library. Every now and then, I make an exception, and I'm presently signed up for the Book of the Month club. I'm doing it as a way to read more physical books this year. I don't know if it's helping yet. I'm still reading the December's pick Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino. I haven't even started the January pick yet. If any of these books just happen to a future pick, I might buy them, we will see. If you follow me on Instagram, that will be the best place to see my future reading.

    Again, thank you all so much for reading. This has been a nice mini blog party, a weekend of writing might be just what I need. Not long enough for me to get too stressed out, but a reprieve (read: excuse to procrastinate) from some of the things pressing more heavily on me. I hope you will join us tomorrow for the final day, as we make reading a social activity. 

    Do you think I should actually buy any of these titles? Have you read any of these? What books would you like to buy?

    Hosted by Kate from Once Upon an Ordinary!

    I love meeting new booklovers! Best way to do that is to follow me: Instagram: @Skai_BooksAndBracelets
    Read Friday's blog here: Day 1 | TBR Love Party 2026: Books I'm Scared to Read