Books i’ve read since this year so far!🫶🏼

It's been such a joy diving back into reading this year, and I'm thrilled to share more about the books that have captured my heart and mind! Setting a goal to read 12 books felt ambitious at first, but with a little planning and a lot of cozy reading nights, it's totally achievable. If you're also on a mission to read more, my top tip is to mix up your genres and always have a next book lined up. It keeps the momentum going! Speaking of next books, I've had some incredible reads recently. Let's talk about a few that stood out from my stack, many of which you might have seen around! First up, Lightlark by Alex Aster. This one was quite the adventure! The world-building is intricate, and the concept of realms tied to unique powers is super intriguing. I found myself completely immersed in the mystery and the magical challenges. If you're a fan of YA fantasy with a strong protagonist and unexpected twists, you absolutely have to check this out. I've seen some mixed reviews on Goodreads, but for me, it was a solid 3.8/5 and a captivating escape. Alex Aster really knows how to build suspense! Then there's A Touch of Darkness by Scarlett St. Clair. Oh my goodness, if you're into Hades and Persephone retellings, this series is a must-read! It's a darker, more mature take on the myth, blending romance with complex character dynamics. I loved seeing Persephone's journey of self-discovery and her evolving relationship with Hades. It's truly addictive and makes you want to devour the next book immediately. The mythical elements are woven beautifully into a modern fantasy setting. For something completely different, I picked up Icebreaker by Hannah Grace. This lighthearted contemporary romance was exactly what I needed! It follows an ice skater and a hockey player, and the banter, the slow-burn romance, and the sports setting made it such a delightful read. It's charming, sweet, and perfect for when you need a feel-good story. I also recently read Wildfire by the same author, another fantastic sports romance that kept me hooked. Hannah Grace has a way of crafting characters you can't help but root for. And for those who love a good chuckle and some delightful chaos, Better Than The Movies by Lynn Painter was an absolute gem. This book is pure rom-com gold! It's got all the classic tropes – fake dating, enemies-to-lovers – but it's executed so perfectly with witty dialogue and adorable moments. Definitely recommend if you're looking for something to make you smile. I also dipped into a cozy mystery with Death by Chocolate by Sally Berneathy. If you enjoy a bit of amateur sleuthing mixed with delicious descriptions of chocolate, this series is a treat! It’s light, fun, and a great palate cleanser between heavier reads. Currently, I'm engrossed in The Summer of Broken Rules by K.L. Walther, which is giving me all the summer vibes! And I've heard amazing things about The Deal by Elle Kennedy, which is on my TBR pile – another sports romance that comes highly recommended by friends. Finding your next great read can be part of the fun! I often browse Goodreads, check out booktok recommendations, and ask friends for their favorites. Sometimes, just looking at book covers like the stunning ones for Lightlark or A Touch of Darkness can draw you in. What helps you decide what to read next? I'm always on the lookout for new suggestions, so please drop your top picks below! Happy reading!