January Wrap Up 📚
The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros - a slow burn romance, only read if you’re prepared to cry, this book is full of crushing hardships
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore - a mystery with a twist at the end, warning that while this book is good it is VERY slow. The end picks up but it felt like it took forever to get there.
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath - a story about a girl in the midst of a mental breakdown while trying to figure out what she wants in life. Again, pretty slow. I’ve had to put this one down & I’ll have to revisit in February.
What did you read in January?
#readingwrapup #januarybooks #lemon8bookclub #2026readinggoal
Starting the year with three very different but deeply impactful books has been quite an experience. Reading 'The Last Letter' by Rebecca Yarros was an emotional journey, especially for those who appreciate slow-burn romance novels that don’t shy away from portraying the raw realities of hardship and loss. It’s a reminder of how literature can mirror life’s toughest moments, and why sometimes reading can be cathartic. 'The God of the Woods' by Liz Moore tested my patience with its pacing but rewarded me in the end with a compelling twist. It’s a perfect pick if you enjoy mysteries that focus more on atmosphere and character development rather than fast-paced action. This book highlights how powerful storytelling can build suspense gradually, encouraging readers to stay engaged even when the plot moves slowly. Sylvia Plath’s 'The Bell Jar' remains a challenging but important read reflecting the struggles with mental health and identity. Although I found the pace slow and had to pause reading, it’s definitely a book I plan to revisit. Its timeless exploration of a young woman’s psychological turmoil encourages empathy and a deeper understanding of mental illness, which feels incredibly relevant. Reflecting on these three books, it’s clear that quality reading isn’t always about quick thrills but often about the emotional and intellectual space it opens up for us. I’m curious to see what others have read this January and how different genres resonate with different readers. What did you read recently that stayed with you or made you think differently about life? Sharing recommendations and personal reading experiences can create a wonderful community of book lovers ready to support each other’s 2026 reading goals.
