Good morning readers! These are all of the books that I acquired/received/borrowed onto my shelves, virtual and/or physical, for the entire month of May:
I borrowed all of these from Libby.
These two are First Reads choices for the month of May.
Remember how I said I would not request a lot of books on NetGalley this year? OOPS!!!!
I receive a complimentary audiobook from William Morrow’s Scene of the Crime program.
Title: The Alchemist and an Amaretto Author: Annette Marie Format: audiobook Length: 6 hours 55 minutes Rating: 4.5 stars Publication Date: January 28, 2020
The Alchemist and an Amaretto was an absolutely great listen for me. Every time I return to this world I’m reminded why these books are so addictive. The blend of magic, action, humor, and character development was perfectly balanced, and I was hooked from beginning to end.
I am also completely invested in Cris Dukehart’s narration. She makes each character feel unique and it keeps me invested in the story.
Annette Marie also does an amazing job creating a world that feels immersive without becoming too complicated or overwhelming. Every new detail adds something meaningful to the plot. This book had everything I love in an urban fantasy and it left me excited to continue with the series immediately.
Title: It’s Not Her Author: Mary Kubica Format: audiobook Length: 11 hours 32 minutes Narrators: Jennifer Jill Araya, Brittany Pressley, Gary Tiedermann Rating: 4.5 stars Publication Date:February 3, 2026
It’s Not Her was such an addictive and suspenseful read. Mary Kubica does an amazing job creating tension from the very beginning, and every chapter pulled me deeper into the mystery. Just when I thought I had things figured out, another twist completely changed everything.
I especially loved the emotional depth of the story and how layered the characters felt. The pacing was fantastic, the atmosphere was unsettling in the best way, and the ending was absolutely everything. This was one of those thrillers that was impossible to put down!
I also enjoyed each narrator. They made the characters come to life in such a great way!
Title: The Anniversary Author: Alex Finlay Format: audiobook Length: 7 hours 38 minutes Narrators: Ari Fliakos & Brittany Pressley Rating: 4 stars Publication Date: May 12, 2026
I really enjoyed The Anniversary by Alex Finlay. The story pulled me in right away with its intriguing premise and didn’t let go. The pacing was steady, with just the right amount of suspense to keep me listening, and I found myself constantly trying to piece together what was really going on.
The plot twist completely caught me off guard in the best way. It was the kind of reveal that makes you stop and rethink everything you’ve read up to that point, which I always appreciate in a thriller. It felt well-executed and satisfying rather than rushed or predictable.
I listened to the audiobook, and both narrators (Ari Fliakos and Brittany Pressley) did a fantastic job bringing the story to life. They really captured the tone and emotions of the characters, adding depth and tension in all the right moments. Their performances made it even easier to stay fully immersed in the story.
Overall, this was a gripping and entertaining read with strong storytelling and a memorable twist. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well-crafted thriller.
I received a complimentary audiobook copy. Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to listen.
Good morning readers! These are all of the books that I acquired/received/borrowed onto my shelves, virtual and/or physical, for the entire month of April:
I borrowed all of these from Libby.
I did not choose a First Reads book this month.
I requested both of these books through NetGalley and was approved!
I borrowed these two from within the Facebook group I am apart of.
Title: Hellbound Guilds & Other Misdirections Author: Annette Marie and Rob Jacobsen Format: audiobook Length: 8 hours 12 minutes Rating: 3 stars Publication Date: September 14, 2021
I wanted to give Kit a chance, but I am just not feeling this series. I did like how the events that happened on Halloween with the demon are in all three series (Spellbound, Warped and Demonized) though. I will continue on with this series as it’s part of the read-along I am doing but it’s not my favorite.
Good morning readers! These are all of the books that I acquired/received/borrowed onto my shelves, virtual and/or physical, for the entire month of March:
No, choosing red covers was not planned for this month, LOL!!!!
These are traveling books, aka borrowed books, within the Facebook group.
Again, an orange theme was also not planned for this month, haha!
An e-ARC of David Ellis’ newest book is in my possession!
Title: Taming Demons for Beginners Author: Annette Marie Format: audiobook Length: 7 hours 52 minutes Narrator: Cris Dukehart Rating: 4 stars Publication Date: December 31, 2019
Taming Demons for Beginners by Annette Marie is such a fun and refreshing start to the The Guild Codex: Demonized series. The story follows Robin, a quiet and rule-loving bookkeeper who works for a guild of mages but wants absolutely nothing to do with magic herself. Of course, that plan quickly falls apart when she accidentally summons and becomes magically bound to a powerful demon named Zylas.
What makes this book so enjoyable is the contrast between Robin and Zylas. Robin is cautious, anxious, and determined to follow every rule, while Zylas is reckless, dangerous, and constantly pushing her out of her comfort zone. Their reluctant partnership creates a lot of humor, tension, and surprisingly heartfelt moments as they slowly learn to trust each other.
I also really enjoyed how this story intertwines with The Guild Codex: Spellbound. Both series take place in the same world and run alongside each other, which makes it fun to see overlapping events and characters from different perspectives. It adds an extra layer to the story for readers who are following both series, which I am doing.
The worldbuilding is easy to jump into, with a unique take on guilds, contracts, and demons that keeps the story moving without feeling overwhelming. The pacing is quick, the action scenes are exciting, and the banter between the characters makes it hard to put the book down.
Overall, Taming Demons for Beginners is a highly entertaining urban fantasy with lovable characters, witty dialogue, and the start of a really intriguing series. If you enjoy magic, slow-building relationships, and a bit of chaos mixed with humor, this is definitely a book worth picking up.
Good morning readers! These are all of the books that I acquired/received/borrowed onto my shelves, virtual and/or physical, for the entire month of February:
I borrowed all of these from Libby.
I did not choose a First Reads book this month.
Scene of The Crime Early Readers Program sent me a widget on NetGalley for this one on audiobook.
Title: Demon Magic and a Martini Author: Annette Marie Format: audiobook Length: 7 hours 15 minutes Rating: 4 stars Publication Date: April 23, 2019
Demon Magic and a Martini was an absolute blast from start to finish. Annette Marie nails the perfect balance of humor, action, and urban fantasy vibes, making this a story that’s incredibly easy to fall into and hard to put down. The pacing is spot on—there’s always something happening, but it never feels rushed or overwhelming. Each scene flows naturally into the next, keeping the tension high and the momentum strong.
One of the biggest highlights is the cast of main characters. Every single one of them shines, with distinct personalities, great banter, and believable chemistry. The protagonist is especially fun to follow, and the supporting characters add so much charm and depth that the story feels alive and dynamic. Their interactions are just as entertaining as the plot itself. Highly recommended for fans of urban fantasy with heart and humor.
Title: When I Kill You Author: B.A. Paris Format: audiobook Length: 7 hours 52 minutes Rating: 4 stars Publication Date: February 17, 2026
I listened to this last year so it counted for last years challenges.
When I Kill You is another gripping, emotionally charged thriller from B.A. Paris, and I was hooked from the very first page. The tension builds beautifully throughout the story, with Paris’s signature blend of atmospheric suspense and deeply personal stakes. I found myself completely immersed, not just in the plot but in the way the story unfolded with such precision and psychological depth. I did guess the plot twist before it happened, but it did not ruin the book for me.
If you’re looking for a thriller that keeps you on edge while delivering strong character insight, When I Kill You is absolutely worth the read.
Good morning readers! These are all of the books that I acquired/received/borrowed onto my shelves, virtual and/or physical, for the entire month of January:
Title: Two Witches and a Whiskey Author: Annette Marie Format: audiobook Length: 8 hours 9 minutes Rating: 4 stars Publication Date: February 28, 2019
Two Witches and a Whiskey by Annette Marie was an absolute delight to listen to, and the audiobook experience made an already engaging story even more immersive. From the very beginning the story pulls you in and never lets go. The pacing translates beautifully to audio, with sharp dialogue, well-timed humor, and escalating tension that makes it hard to press pause. Every chapter flows smoothly, keeping the momentum high and the stakes clear.
One of the biggest strengths of the audiobook is how vividly the characters and their relationships come through. Hearing the interactions really brings the banter, emotions, and shifting dynamics to life. The friendships, rivalries, and found-family moments feel incredibly natural, and listening to those relationships develop adds an extra layer of connection. The characters chemistry is a joy to experience through audio.
Overall, the Two Witches and a Whiskey is a thoroughly engaging and entertaining experience. The combination of a gripping story, strong character relationships, and lively dialogue makes it easy to get completely absorbed. It’s the kind of audiobook that makes commutes fly by and keeps you looking for excuses to listen just a little longer. Highly recommended for anyone who loves urban fantasy and character-driven storytelling.
Title: Inside Man Author: John McMahon Format: audiobook Narrator: Will Damon Length: 9 hours 35 minutes Publication Date: January 13, 2026
Inside Man by John McMahon is a gripping, smartly constructed thriller that kept me fully invested from start to finish. McMahon writes his cast with depth and emotional realism, making it easy to become immersed in their world and genuinely care about what happens as the story unfolds.
The dual investigations are especially compelling. As the two cases gradually intertwine, the tension builds in a way that constantly pulled me forward. Just when I thought I understood where things were heading, new connections emerged, keeping the story fresh and unpredictable without ever feeling forced or confusing. The pacing strikes a great balance between thoughtful development and propulsive suspense.
The audiobook elevates the experience even further. Narrator Will Damron does an outstanding job, bringing nuance and authenticity to each character’s voice. His performance enhances the emotional beats and sharpens the tension, making it hard to stop listening.
I received a complimentary audio copy. Thank you to the lovely people I reached out to at Macmillan for allowing me to have this ALC on my NetGalley Shelf.
I was looking over my reading stats since I started tracking them, and this will be my third year spending no money on books. While that sounds absolutely insane and not doable to most people, I assure you that it’s possible. I am not the type of person who HAS to read a book the second it’s published. I have been making use of my local library for most of all my reading needs, and just put myself on the wait list as books I want to read are coming out. I’ve also gotten a lot of newer reads with not a long wait time through Libby as well.
For those who care, or don’t believe that this is possible, my plan will be to share receipts of books I acquire this year when posting about the book.
Do you spend a lot of money on books in a year? Do you use your library at all?
Title: Dark Arts and A Daiquiri Author: Annette Marie Format: audiobook Length: 7 hours 39 minutes Rating: 4 stars Publication Date: November 16, 2018
This audiobook is a fast and funny urban-fantasy adventure. Tori’s snarky voice and fearless attitude make her a fantastic protagonist, and the chemistry with her mage roommates is as charming as ever. Annette Marie delivers sharp humor, great action, and surprisingly heartfelt moments, all wrapped in vivid world-building that’s impossible to resist. I cannot wait to listen to the next book in this series!
Good morning, readers! December started off strong and tanked around the holidays, which is expected since I was so busy with traveling and family things.
Excited for all these great plans I have for 2026!
If you’re not following me on Storygraph, you should! This is my page. I stopped using Goodreads last year.
Also, I am trying to get more people liking my posts on Instagram. If you could follow me there, and maybe like a photo or two, I would also appreciate that :) I also follow back anyone who follows me.
This is where I will be keeping track of my Audiobook Challenge to share with everyone. You know I also track everything on multiple spreadsheets like a huge nerd!
I am trying to listen to 20-30 audiobooks this year (Binge Listener)
Use the hashtag #2026AudiobookChallenge
January 2026
Two Witches and A Whiskey by Annette Marie
Inside Man by John McMahon
The Shut-In by James Patterson and Duane Swierczynski
Good morning readers! These are all of the books that I acquired/received/borrowed onto my shelves, virtual and/or physical, for the entire month of December:
Screenshot
I borrowed all of these from Libby.
I borrowed this hefty paperback copy from my library as well. I knew I wouldn’t be able to read the e-copy within the time frame I was allowed to borrow it.
I borrowed these Christmas and Hanukkah themed eBooks from Prime Reading.
James Patterson’s Street Team sent me this paperback advanced reader copy of Judge Stone by Viola Davis and James Patterson.
My mom got me a Blind Date With A Book for Christmas.
