August 31st: The Scariest Day of the Year (For My TBR)

It's August 31st, a day that, in my mind, is not just the end of a month but a countdown timer ticking toward my favorite season. The end of summer. The last day of August. The final gasp of beach reads and lighthearted rom-coms.

I can practically feel the shift in the air. The mornings are a tiny bit crisper, the sun sets just a little earlier, and my reading list starts to get that distinct, spooky vibe.

For months, my shelves have been dedicated to sunny stories. I've been lost in contemporary fiction, feel-good memoirs, and a few epic fantasy series that felt perfect for long, lazy days. But as August 31st arrives, I can't help but feel a magnetic pull toward a different kind of book.

Before I know it, I'll be in full-on Halloween mode. The pumpkin-scented candles will be lit, a cozy blanket will be permanently draped over my chair, and I'll be diving headfirst into the worlds of ghosts, ghouls, and cunning detectives. I'm already mentally compiling my October reading list: a classic gothic horror novel, a twisty psychological thriller, a good old-fashioned whodunit, and maybe a cozy mystery with a hint of paranormal.

It's not just about the spooky stories, though. It's about the entire mood. The atmosphere of fall begs for a certain kind of read. The kind that makes you want to curl up with a cup of tea and a blanket, a slight chill in the air and a shiver running down your spine—but in a good way.

So, while I'm sad to see the end of summer, there’s a part of me that’s practically bouncing with excitement. August 31st isn't just a date; it's a promise. A promise of shorter days, longer nights, and a whole new season of thrilling, chilling, and mysterious books waiting to be devoured.

What are you adding to your spooky season reading list? Share your recommendations in the comments!

Where Did the Magic Go? A Quest to Find My Fantasy Audiobooks Again

My love affair with audiobooks started with a single genre: fantasy. It felt like the most natural fit. A full-cast narration could bring a sprawling, fantastical world to life. The narrator's voice became the storyteller, guiding me through epic quests, intricate magic systems, and the clang of swords against shields. Listening to a massive, 30-hour fantasy book felt less daunting and more like a journey I was embarking on. I could get lost in the world while doing the dishes, driving, or walking the dog.

For a long time, this was my primary way of reading. My Audible library filled up with the biggest names in the genre: Brandon Sanderson, Robert Jordan, Joe Abercrombie. Each credit was an investment in a new world to explore.

Then, slowly, I started to drift away.

I'm not sure exactly when it happened. Maybe it was the pull of more "practical" audiobooks—non-fiction titles about productivity or memoirs that felt more immediate. Or perhaps it was simply the siren song of a physical book on my shelf, a desire to hold a story in my hands. I started listening to thrillers and literary fiction, which were great, but they didn't have the same epic scope, the same sense of wonder.

I've been missing it. The feeling of being completely immersed in a world of high stakes and high magic. I've been craving a story that transports me far away from the mundane. I miss the moments of pure escapism that only a truly great fantasy audiobook can provide.

I've come to realize that I've been so focused on "reading" for efficiency that I've forgotten to read for pure, unadulterated joy. I've been listening to books that feel like they're helping me grow or learn, but I've neglected the ones that simply let me dream.

So, I'm making a conscious decision. I'm going back. My next Audible credit is going to be for a fantasy novel. I'm going to put my headphones on and step back into a world where anything is possible. I'm ready to find the magic again.

Have you ever lost your way with a favorite genre, only to find your way back to it later? Share your stories in the comments!

My Kindle Is Gathering Dust, and I'm Totally Okay With It

For years, my Kindle was my most-loved possession. It was sleek, lightweight, and held a limitless library in the palm of my hand. I could instantly download a new book at midnight, discover indie authors with a tap, and carry a dozen different stories on a single plane ride. My Kindle was efficiency and convenience personified, and for a long time, I wouldn't have traded it for anything.

It was my go-to for all my reading. My physical bookshelves sat largely untouched, filled with books I had read years ago or gifts I hadn't gotten around to. The convenience of the e-reader was just too good to pass up.

But recently, something shifted. I found myself reaching for my Kindle less and less. It wasn't a conscious decision at first; I would just instinctively grab a physical book from my nightstand. Before I knew it, my Kindle was sitting on my desk, its battery depleted, a thin layer of dust starting to settle on its screen.

And I'm not sad about it at all. In fact, I'm thrilled.

I've rediscovered the simple, tangible pleasure of a physical book. There's something about the weight of it in my hands, the crisp sound of a page turning, the feel of the paper against my fingertips. I love the smell of an old book and the satisfying heft of a new one. It's a full sensory experience that an e-reader, no matter how advanced, can't replicate.

With a physical book, I feel more connected to the story. I can see my progress as the pages shift from right to left, a visual representation of the journey I'm on. I can highlight my favorite passages with a pencil and jot notes in the margins without worrying about a clumsy interface. I can easily flip back a few pages to re-read a beautiful sentence or check on a character's name.

This isn't a rant against e-readers. I still think they're incredible tools, and I know many people who wouldn't read any other way. But for me, the magic of reading was starting to feel a little lost in the glow of a screen. Trading that convenience for the simple, analog joy of a physical book has made my reading experience richer, more immersive, and ultimately, more enjoyable.

The books on my shelf are no longer just decoration. They are living, breathing objects that I'm excited to pick up and get lost in. My Kindle might be gathering dust, but my mind is wide open, and my love for reading has never felt more alive.

Do you prefer physical books or e-readers? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

How I Learned to Read Again (By Only Reading in Bed)

Lately, my reading life has transformed in a pretty surprising way. For years, I was that person who read everywhere: on the bus, in line at the grocery store, while waiting for coffee—any little pocket of time I could find. It felt productive, like I was making the most of every minute. My book was my constant companion, a portable escape.

But a few months ago, I started to feel a bit... burned out. My reading had become just another task to check off my mental to-do list. I was flying through books, but I wasn't really absorbing them. I'd finish a novel and barely be able to recall the characters' names a week later. The joy was gone. It felt less like a passion and more like a race to the finish line.

So, I decided to try something radical: I stopped reading throughout my day. I no longer bring a book with me everywhere. Instead, I've made a new rule: I only read in bed.

And let me tell you, it's been a game-changer.

My bed has become a sanctuary, a dedicated space just for unwinding with a book. Reading is no longer a hurried activity squeezed between errands. It’s a deliberate act of relaxation. It's the final part of my day, a way to disconnect from the digital world and all its distractions.

Now, when I open a book, I’m fully present. I’m not half-listening for my bus stop or thinking about the email I need to send. I’m sinking into the story, letting the words wash over me. I've found that I'm retaining more, connecting with characters on a deeper level, and truly appreciating the author's craft. The plots feel more intricate, the prose more beautiful.

What I've realized is that this new habit isn't about reading less; it’s about reading better. It's about quality over quantity. The books I read in bed before sleep feel like a quiet, comforting ritual, a way to signal to my body and mind that it's time to rest. It has a calming effect that scrolling on my phone just can't replicate.

If you’ve been feeling like your reading has become more of a chore than a joy, I highly recommend trying this. Reclaim a specific time and place for your reading. Give yourself permission to make it a relaxing, intentional part of your day. It might just be the thing you need to fall in love with reading all over again.

Do you have a special time or place where you like to read? I'd love to hear about your own reading rituals in the comments!

New Release Review: Falling into Place by Allison Ashley

I just finished reading Allison Ashley's newest release, Falling into Place, and I'm so excited to share my thoughts on this wonderful contemporary romance. As my first book by this author, I went in with no expectations and came out completely in love with her writing style. I'm giving this book a solid 4 out of 5 stars!

Falling into Place, released on August 19, 2025, is a beautifully written story that focuses on two complex characters finding their way back to hope and happiness. We meet Carly Porter, a freelance personal stylist and accountant who is driven by her past to make sure every decision is a good one. When her best friend Sasha offers a job that could launch her dream career, Carly takes a chance: she'll partner with Sasha to give her reclusive brother, Brooks, a public makeover to save Sasha's magazine.

Brooks, an antisocial and work-obsessed physician, is a far cry from the high school party boy Carly remembers. He's been through a devastating loss, and the only reason he agrees to this public spectacle is to help his sister. What follows is a charming, often poignant journey as Carly tries to "fix" Brooks, helping him get out of his scrubs and into a new life.

What I loved most about this book was the emotional depth. Ashley doesn't shy away from showing her characters' vulnerabilities. The real connection isn't between Brooks and the dates Carly sets up for him—it's between Brooks and Carly themselves. Their chemistry is subtle at first, built on shared understanding and a slow, gentle burn that feels incredibly authentic. The conflict of Carly falling for a client, risking the career she's worked so hard to build, adds a layer of delicious tension.

The story is a powerful reminder that we have to overcome our painful pasts to move forward. Carly and Brooks's journey is one of healing and self-discovery as they learn to take a chance on love. The pacing felt just right, allowing their relationship to develop naturally and feel earned by the end. If you're looking for a contemporary romance with a lot of heart, emotional honesty, and a hopeful message, you'll want to add Falling into Place to your reading list. It’s an absolute winner.

Thank you to Sparkpoint Studio, Booksparks & Allison Ashley for this ARC!

If you are interested in the book: https://amzn.to/3Jkz8u6

A Dose of Adrenaline: Why My Next Read Needs to Be a Freida McFadden Thriller

After that long, slow crawl through The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, my reading life is in desperate need of a jolt. I'm craving a book that's the opposite of a sprawling epic—something quick, addictive, and packed with twists. I need a palate cleanser, and I know exactly where to find it: a Freida McFadden thriller.

I've already devoured The Housemaid, The Boyfriend, and Never Lie, and they were exactly what I needed. They were fast, clever, and so utterly unputdownable. I love that McFadden gets straight to the point. There's no fluff, no unnecessary world-building, just a compelling mystery that pulls you in from the first page and doesn't let go. Her books are like a shot of pure reading adrenaline, and that's precisely what I'm looking for right now.

So, I'm on the hunt for my next Freida McFadden fix. I've heard great things about The Locked Door and The Inmate, both of which sound like they have the same kind of shocking twists and turns that I've come to love. The idea of jumping into a story where I'm constantly questioning everyone's motives and second-guessing every clue sounds like the perfect way to get my reading mojo back.

If you're in the same boat—recovering from a difficult read or just looking for a fun, fast-paced escape—I highly recommend giving Freida McFadden a try. She’s the queen of the popcorn thriller for a reason. What's your go-to author for a book that gets your heart racing? I'd love to hear your recommendations!

No More Guilt: Why I Quit Pushing Through Books I Don't Enjoy

For a long time, I was a completionist reader. If I started a book, I had to finish it. It didn’t matter if I was bored, annoyed, or just plain not into the story—I had to see it through to the end. The guilt of leaving a book "unfinished" was a heavier burden than the slog of actually reading it.

I'd tell myself things like, "It might get better," or "I can't judge it if I don't finish it." This mindset led me to spend weeks, sometimes months, forcing myself through books that brought me zero joy. I remember one particularly long fantasy novel that I spent an entire summer with. Every page was a battle. I'd read two pages and my mind would drift, then I'd have to go back and reread them. My reading time, which used to be a highlight of my day, became a source of stress. I felt like I was wasting my time, but I also felt like a failure for even considering giving up.

Then, something shifted. I realized that my precious free time was being spent on a self-imposed chore. There are literally millions of books in the world, and I was spending my limited hours with one that wasn't working for me. The idea of "sunk cost"—the time and energy I'd already invested—was the only thing keeping me going. But what was the point of investing more time into something I wasn't enjoying?

I finally gave myself permission to DNF (Did Not Finish) a book. It was a popular thriller that just wasn't clicking for me. I was about 150 pages in and realized I didn't care about the characters or the mystery. So, with a deep breath and a sense of rebellion, I closed it and moved on. The feeling was incredible. It wasn't guilt; it was relief.

Since then, my reading life has transformed. I now approach every book with a new freedom. If I'm 50 pages in and I'm not engaged, I move on. If the writing style isn't for me, I move on. There’s no more guilt, only the excitement of finding the next great story. Giving myself permission to DNF has opened up my reading to so many wonderful books I might have missed while stuck in a book I wasn't enjoying.

---

How to Tell When It’s Time to DNF

If you're still a completionist and want to break the habit, here are a few questions I now ask myself before deciding to DNF a book:

• Am I actively looking forward to picking this book up? If the answer is no, and the thought of reading it feels like a chore, it's a major red flag.

• Am I constantly checking the page number? If you're more focused on how much you have left to read than what's happening in the story, it's a sign that your mind isn't engaged.

• Could I be reading something else that I would enjoy more? The answer is almost always yes. There's a whole world of books out there waiting for you.

So, if you're struggling through a book right now, I want to give you permission to let it go. There's no shame in not finishing a book that isn't working for you. Your time is valuable, and your reading should be a source of pleasure, not pressure.

I Quit "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" – And It Saved My Reading Life

We've all been there. You pick up a book everyone raves about. It's a cultural phenomenon. It's on every "must-read" list. For me, that book was Stieg Larsson's The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I went in with high hopes, ready to be swept away by a thrilling mystery. Instead, I found myself in a reading slump of epic proportions.

The first 100 pages of this book felt like a marathon with no finish line in sight. Instead of being pulled into a gripping narrative, I was mired in what felt like endless, tedious details. The intricate financial dealings, the exhaustive introductions to characters who seemed to have no immediate purpose—it was all there, and it was all slowing me down. Every time I picked it up, I felt a sense of dread. The excitement I usually get from starting a new book was completely gone.

I kept thinking, "It has to get better, right?" Everyone told me the same thing: "Just get past the beginning." But at what cost? My reading time, which is usually a source of joy and relaxation, had become a chore. I was forcing myself to trudge through pages, rereading paragraphs because my mind was wandering, and feeling guilty every time I chose to do something else instead of picking up the book.

Then, I had a revelation. Why was I doing this to myself? Reading is supposed to be fun. It's a hobby, not a homework assignment. It's okay to quit a book, even a famous one, if it's not working for you.

So, with a sense of liberation, I closed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and put it back on my bookshelf. I didn't finish it. I may never finish it. And you know what? My reading life instantly improved. The very next book I picked up, a light and fast-paced fantasy novel, I devoured in two days. The slump was gone.

My experience with The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo taught me a valuable lesson. It's not a failure to stop reading a book that isn't serving you. In fact, it can be an act of self-care for your reading life. Life is too short to read books that feel like a slog, especially when there are so many incredible stories out there waiting to be discovered.

If you're stuck in a similar situation, pushing through a book everyone loves but you just can't get into, I'm here to give you permission to quit. Don't let a single book, no matter how acclaimed, ruin your love for reading. Put it down, pick up something else, and find your joy again. Your reading life will thank you for it.

I Think I'm In a Reading Slump (But I'm Not)

You know that feeling when you look at your bookshelf, filled with unread stories just waiting to be explored, but nothing calls to you? You pick up a book, read the first page, and put it back down. You scroll through Goodreads, looking at everyone else's five-star reviews, and feel... nothing.

I've been in this cycle for the last two weeks, and for a while, I was convinced I was in a reading slump. I was starting to feel guilty. As a book lover, shouldn't I be constantly craving a new story? Shouldn't I always have my head in a book?

But then I had a thought: maybe I'm not in a slump. Maybe I'm just taking a break.

We don't expect ourselves to watch a new movie every night or listen to new music every day. We give ourselves permission to re-watch our favorite comfort films or listen to the same playlist on repeat. So why do we put so much pressure on ourselves to always be reading something new?

I realized that my mind just needed a break from diving into a whole new world. Instead of forcing myself to start a new book, I've been giving myself permission to simply exist. I've been watching my favorite comfort shows, catching up on podcasts, and just letting my mind wander.

And you know what? It’s been great.

I'm not forcing myself to read, and I'm not feeling guilty about it. I know that the next book I read will be the right one, because I'll be ready for it. My mind will be rested, my imagination will be recharged, and I'll be able to fully immerse myself in the story.

So if you're feeling the same way, don't worry. It's not a reading slump. It's just a reading break. And sometimes, that's exactly what we need.

What do you do when you're not in the mood to read? Do you have any go-to non-book activities that help you recharge? Let me know in the comments!

My Vacation Shopping: I Didn't Read Much, But I Definitely Bought Books

As I mentioned in my recent post, my recent 10-day vacation was a wonderful whirlwind of family time, good food, and zero reading. I went in with a stack of books, full of good intentions, and came back with that same stack, completely untouched.

But let's be real—a vacation isn't truly a vacation without a visit to a local bookstore, right?

While I may have failed to read, I absolutely succeeded in one of my favorite vacation pastimes: Browse the shelves of a Barnes & Noble. There’s something about being in a new city and walking into a familiar bookstore that feels like coming home. I could have been at any B&N in the country, but the unique selection and atmosphere of this particular store made the experience even more special.

And, of course, I didn't leave empty-handed. My book-buying habit is strong, and a vacation seems to only fuel it. I figured if I wasn't going to read on the trip, the least I could do was set myself up for some serious reading when I got back.

So, while my reading life took a brief hiatus, my book-collecting life is thriving. I'm now home, refreshed, and surrounded by new stories waiting to be discovered. It’s the best of both worlds, really. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some reading to catch up on!

What's the best book you've ever found while on vacation? Let me know in the comments!

In Search of a Killer (Good Audiobook)

 It's a struggle that every audiobook fan knows all too well: staring at the Libby app, a list of mystery and thriller titles in front of you, but with no idea where to start. There are so many choices, and it's so hard to commit to a book without knowing if the narration is going to be a perfect match for the story.

I've been in this exact predicament for the last week. I've finished my last audiobook and I'm itching for a new dose of suspense. I'm looking for a story that will grab me from the very first minute, with a narrator who can make me forget I'm even listening to an audiobook. A voice that can bring characters to life, build tension with every syllable, and deliver a plot twist that makes me gasp out loud while I'm doing the dishes.

My Libby holds list is getting a little out of control, and it's time to make a decision. I've been eyeing a few popular titles that keep popping up in my searches:

• Freida McFadden's books seem to be everywhere, with titles like The Housemaid and Never Lie getting a lot of buzz. I'm intrigued by the fast-paced, twisty plots people talk about. (Have read these two books already).

• The ever-popular The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is another one that keeps appearing. It's a psychological thriller classic for a reason, and I've heard great things about its narration. (Have read this book).

• I've also seen a lot of recommendations for Lucy Foley's books, like The Guest List and The Midnight Feast, which are praised for their full-cast narrations that add a whole new layer to the whodunnit experience. (Read The Midnight Feast)

But the sheer number of options is still overwhelming. Do I go for a a recent hit, a classic, or a book by a new-to-me author? I'm torn between wanting something I know is going to be good and wanting to discover a new favorite.

So I'm turning to all of you, my fellow book lovers and audiobook connoisseurs. What mystery or thriller audiobook have you listened to recently that you couldn't stop thinking about? What book on Libby is a can't-miss listen, and who is the narrator who truly made the story unforgettable? I need your help to narrow down the choices and find my next great listen. Drop your recommendations in the comments below!

Vacation Recap: More Family Time, Less Reading Time

I just got back from a fantastic 10-day vacation, and while I’m always sad when a trip ends, I'm feeling refreshed and recharged. I'm usually the person who packs a stack of books for a trip, fully expecting to power through them all. This time, however, things were a little different.

My reading time was practically non-existent.

And honestly? I'm not even mad about it.

This vacation was all about quality time with family. My family and I spent our days exploring new places, laughing over shared meals, and just enjoying each other's company. These uninterrupted moments are becoming more and more precious, and I chose to be fully present, to soak up every conversation and memory we were making together.

Instead of turning pages, I was listening to stories, playing endless card games, and having conversations that weren’t rushed or interrupted by daily life. My carefully curated stack of books remained mostly untouched, a testament to how fully I embraced the break from my usual routine.

While I didn't get to escape into a fictional world, I did get to live fully in my own. The book blog will be back to its regularly scheduled programming soon, but for now, I'm just happy to be home with a heart full of memories and a bookshelf full of future adventures.

What’s a vacation memory you cherish more than any book you've ever read? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

My Happy Place: The Simple Joy of Iced Coffee and a Great Book Indoors

Okay, let's talk about the simple pleasures in life. While I'm still ready for those poolside reading sessions (especially with this enduring Texas heat!), there's a particular kind of cozy contentment I've been absolutely reveling in lately: staying in, with an iced coffee in hand, completely absorbed in a great book.

After a busy stretch and the delightful chaos of summer gatherings, there's a unique comfort in intentionally choosing to stay home. My perfectly organized bookshelves are practically beaming, inviting me to pluck off a story that matches my current mood. And with my rediscovered love for romance novels alongside my trusty thrillers, the options are plentiful and tempting.

The star of this indoor reading ritual, however, is undoubtedly the iced coffee. There's just something about that cool, refreshing sip that perfectly complements the immersion of a good book. It's the ideal companion, providing a gentle buzz without the intense heat of a hot drink, allowing me to lose myself in pages for hours. It’s like the universe is conspiring to keep me perfectly hydrated and stimulated for my literary adventures.

This isn't about being unproductive; it's about being mindfully unproductive. It's about creating a personal sanctuary where the outside world fades, and the only demands are those of the narrative in my hands. The quiet hum of the AC, the clink of ice in my glass, and the rustle of turning pages create a perfect symphony of relaxation.

I've been choosing books that I can truly sink into, letting the stories unfold at their own pace. Whether it's a gripping mystery keeping me guessing or a heartwarming romance making me smile, the experience is elevated by the calm of my own space and the steady refreshment of my drink. It's my personal form of self-care, a way to recharge and reconnect with the simple joys of reading without any external distractions.

So, if you're looking for a perfect way to unwind, I highly recommend this simple ritual. Brew up your favorite iced coffee, find that comfy spot (maybe even in your newly organized reading nook!), and let a great book transport you.

What's your ultimate "staying in" reading setup? Do you have a go-to drink that makes your reading sessions extra special?

A Perfect Pairing: Starbucks and a Book (or Two!) at Barnes & Noble

There's something about a Friday, isn't there? The week winds down, the weekend stretches ahead, and the possibilities for relaxation open up. And today, I have a particularly delightful plan brewing: a trip to Barnes & Noble for a Starbucks fix, with the very real possibility of a book (or two!) coming home with me.

Given my recent reflections on missing the serendipity of physical Browse and my ongoing search for a local independent bookstore that doesn't break the bank, a Barnes & Noble visit feels like the perfect compromise today. It offers that wonderful blend of convenience and the joy of being surrounded by books.

My primary mission is a Starbucks run. A perfectly crafted iced coffee sounds like just the thing to kick off the afternoon. But let's be honest, walking past those towering bookshelves, smelling that intoxicating blend of coffee and paper, it's impossible not to be drawn in.

Even though I've just meticulously organized my home shelves and am actively loving my Libby app for free reads, there's a unique pull to a new, crisp physical book. The promise of a fresh story, the weight of it in your hands, the uncreased spine – it's a special kind of allure.

And that's where the "or two!" comes in. My mood-reading tendencies mean I never quite know what will call to me. Will it be that gripping mystery I've been eyeing, or a delightful romance to continue my newfound appreciation for the genre? Perhaps a completely unexpected title will jump out at me from the new releases table.

This isn't about needing books; it's about the pure joy of the hunt, the discovery, and the simple pleasure of adding a tangible piece of potential adventure to my collection. It's about indulging in a moment of quiet Browse, fueled by caffeine, in a place designed entirely around the love of stories.

Wish me luck on my mission! I'm off to enjoy a perfect blend of my favorite beverage and the sweet anticipation of new literary treasures.

What's your favorite combination for a bookstore visit? Coffee, tea, or just the quiet hum of happy readers?

August in Texas: My Poolside Reading Season is FAR From Over!

Well, here we are, August 3rd. My last blog post definitely reflected that "where did summer go?!" shock. But then, the Texas heat quickly reminded me: summer is still very much here. And that, my friends, means my glorious poolside reading season is far from over!

While some parts of the country might be starting to dream of crisp autumn air and pumpkin spice lattes, here in Texas, August usually brings some of our most intense heat. We're talking triple-digit temperatures, sunshine that bakes the pavement, and a very strong incentive to stay as close to a body of water as humanly possible.

And honestly? I'm not mad about it.

This extended heat means my prime outdoor reading spot – that comfy lounge chair by the pool, strategically placed for maximum shade and quick dips – will be getting plenty more use. My initial worry about summer slipping away before I could truly indulge in those perfect, uninterrupted physical book sessions has eased considerably.

In fact, it's pretty much guaranteed now. As long as the Texas sun is blazing, you'll find me there, probably with a glass of iced tea, a good book, and the soothing sound of water. It's less about the calendar month and more about the climate. August in Texas isn't the end of summer; it's often the peak of "stay-by-the-pool-at-all-costs" season.

So, while others might be packing away their swimsuits, I'm just getting started. My refreshed bookshelves are ready, my "one book at a time" focus is locked in, and my appreciation for Libby's free audiobooks for chore-time is stronger than ever. But when it comes to pure, unadulterated relaxation with a physical book, the poolside calls.

Are you in a region where summer lingers far into August, or even September? What's your strategy for enjoying those extended warm days with a book?

August Already?! Where Did Summer Go?

Can you believe it? I blinked, and suddenly it's August 1st! It feels like just yesterday I was basking in the post-July 4th glow, admiring my newly organized bookshelves, and anticipating endless days of poolside reading. Now, here we are, already a full month into summer's final stretch.

Where did July go? It zoomed by in a delightful blur of family time, the satisfying thrum of audiobooks accompanying my chores, and the ongoing, delicious dilemma of choosing between a mystery and a romance. I finally settled into a reading rhythm, enjoying the freedom of being a mood reader and making the most of my beloved Libby app.

I was just starting to perfect my poolside reading setup, finding that ideal balance of sun and shade for my book, and now I feel like I'm already looking towards fall. It’s that familiar bittersweet feeling every year: the joy of summer's long days mixed with the melancholic realization that they're slipping away far too quickly.

This sudden arrival of August has me thinking about all the books I still want to read before the leaves start to turn. My TBR pile, which felt so manageable after my great cleanse, seems to be silently growing again, beckoning me with new stories. I still haven't fully indulged in that perfect, uninterrupted physical book session I promised myself for the summer, preferring to just be during my last break.

So, as we officially step into August, my renewed focus is on savoring every last bit of this season. That means more poolside pages, more audiobooks while I enjoy the warm evenings, and definitely more deliberate time spent with the books I'm most excited about. Because if July taught me anything, it's that time truly does fly when you're enjoying yourself.

Are you also feeling the "August already?!" shock? What's on your must-read list to squeeze in before summer says goodbye?