January Books in Review
Hello, friends and fellow book enthusiasts! Today, I’m bringing you a dose of literary love. As a 35-year-old mom and esthetician, balancing life’s many facets can sometimes feel like a whirlwind. Yet, among work, kids school, and activities, books remain my refuge—a place where I can explore new worlds, gain fresh perspectives, and find (dare I say it) peace. I mostly listen to audio books but this year I have a goal to read 10 physical books. On my recaps I will mention whether it was an audio, e-book, or physical book. Btw, my audiobook goal is 50.
This January, I read 6 audiobooks. This year I started using the StoryGraph app to track my books. I must say, the app has become an great tool for me! Its features allow me to set reading goals, explore personalized recommendations, and connect with fellow book lovers. If you're searching for a tool to enhance your reading experience, StoryGraph might be your next best friend —it’s like having a personal reading assistant! They even have giveaways!! Check out my reads and profile on story graph!
Audiobooks Read
Wicked by Gregory Maguire
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Wicked (the movie) came out not too long ago and I was curios to see how the movie correlated to the book, so I decided to read the book before I watched the movie. I have not watched the movie yet, but I definitely enjoyed the book. Wicked takes us beyond the familiar story of the Wizard of Oz, offering a fresh perspective through the eyes of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch. What captivated me most was the exploration of identity, power, and the complex nature of good versus evil. The book was a reminder that every character, even the so-called villains, have a story worth exploring.
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
I read this book for a book club and I have to say, it is not a book I would normally read, but deeply enjoyed it! Ariel Lawhon weaves an intricate story of history and mystery in The Frozen River. This tale transported me to a world where woman’s courage and determination brought some light to topics that are difficult to talk about, especially in a society where women were not seen or heard. This book left a profound impact, reminding me of the strength found in human connections and women through the years. I loved the authors note at the end explaining more of the story and the contents of Martha’s journal.
One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book has been on my to read list for a while! Some ladies from book club had recommended it and it did not disappoint! One Dark Window is a fantasy story that kept me on the edge of my seat. Gillig masterfully creates a place where magic and mystery live, and where suspense, love, family, and royalty all intertwine wonderfully. I enjoyed the story and characters so much. Im so excited to read the second book and see how this series ends.
Anne of Green Gables by LM Montgomery
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I had heard that Anne of Green Gables is a timeless classic. I just never read it or thought about reading it until now that it was the book we read for a book club and I love it! I just loved Anne, the main character. Anne reminds me so much of my daughter. Anne is an imaginative orphan who is mistakenly sent to live with Marilla and Matthew, who had intended to adopt a boy to help them on their farm. The book beautifully captures her journey of self-discovery, friendship, and the challenges of fitting into a new community. The book has many topics such as love, belonging, and perseverance. I love that this book feels like it is a celebration of imagination, kindness, and the beauty of life’s imperfections. It’s honestly a must-read!
The Grandmother by Jane E James
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
This book explores the complexities of family relationships through the lens of generational differences. The story revolves around a grandmother who reflects on her life, the challenges she faced, and the wisdom she has gained over the years. The grandmother’s journey toward reconciliation with her past and her newfound love for her grand daughters is interesting. The book has themes of resilience, forgiveness, family relationships, and death. I wasn’t a big fan of the book but it did have many twists that it kept me engaged and wanting to know what happens next.
You Loved Me Once by Corinne Michaels
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.9
This book is a story of romance- old and new. It has themes of love, loss, and second chances. The story follows the journey of Dr. Serenity Adams, a woman navigating the heartbreak of her “forever love” as she confronts her past and discovers a love she never knew she wanted.
The story is captivating, emotional, and at times would make me angry and make me want to just shake her. The story shows how time doesn’t heal all wounds, but feeling the emotions and releasing them allows the heart to heal. The topics of grief and healing is handled with sensitivity, making it relatable for anyone who has experienced the pain of lost love.
I gave it 3.9 stars simply because Dr. Serenity Adams actions drove me crazy. I just wanted her to open her eyes and act like a professional and not with her heart. I hated how she jeopardizes her career, loses integrity, and how she handles the whole thing when the past came into her life. BUT overall it was a good read. Medium paced and kept me engaged the entire time.
Physical Books Read
Zero physical books read so far, but I am reading two! Just not done. Yet.
Making Time to Read
In the midst of motherhood, self-care, and life’s daily demands, reading offers a moment of pause where I can lose myself in narratives that inspire, challenge, and intrigue me. As an esthetician whose clientele mainly consists of my lash clients it allows me the time to listen to audiobooks while I work. As far as reading physical books, I have been sneaking in a few pages during my morning tea or indulging in a late-night reading session. I have been made it a goal to read 10 physical books this year with 4 of being self help and business books in hope to learn, grow, and enrich my life and soul.
Currently Reading…
If you have any book suggestions or thoughts on what I’ve read, I’d love to hear from you!
Thank you for joining me in this exploration of stories and imagination. May your own reading adventures bring you as much joy and inspiration as mine have brought me.
Happy reading
✌🏽, 🖤, & 📚