Just Shelved: Recent Reads

My Merry Mistake by Courtney Walsh - I absolutely adored this story. There was tree decorating, ice skating, and so many other lighthearted holiday moments, while also holding so much depth. I related to Raya and Finn at different points and loved the way Courtney Walsh helped us understand both of them. Plus, she shared in the author’s note that she might not be done with the Hart sisters yet, so I can’t wait to see what’s to come! No spice, no language.

Since Day One by Abigail Nadine - This was a super cute holiday novella told completely in the male main character’s POV. It was the perfect friends to lovers story for Christmastime. I plan to read more by this author! No spice, no language.

Baggage Claim by Juliana Smith - The setting of this book was so atmospheric for Christmas. I loved the snowy, ski resort, Colorado setting and all the Christmas movies and winter activities sprinkled throughout. However, I didn’t love a specific plot line with her sister or how her family handled it. I still plan to read the second book though! Mild infrequent language, fade to black spice and allusions.

The Holiduel by Hailey Gardiner - This is the perfect holiday novella if you love baking or Franklin, TN. I can’t wait to read the rest of her Falling for Franklin series now! No spice, no language.

Silent Heist by Jenessa Fayeth - This book was the best surprise for me this month, and I cannot wait to read more by this author! It was fast-paced, kept me guessing, and had a sweet second chance romance mixed in. When I think about my experience reading this book, the word that comes to mind is FUN! No language, no spice.

The Favorites by Layne Fargo - The writing style of this book made it where I could not put it down, and I loved the documentary style. I also really enjoyed the Olympic background, the competitions, and the way the author captured all the hard work that goes into it only to make a small mistake that could cost it all. Due to content and the messiness of these characters and situations, I would not recommend this for young adult readers, but I think for adults, it is up to you! Occasional strong language, closed door / allusions, LGBTQ characters, mildly graphic injuries.

The Good Part by Sophie Cousens - I have been putting this book off for too long because I thought I would enjoy it so much, and I was RIGHT! I think it might be a new favorite I read every year around New Years. The concept of this story was so intriguing and so reflective. I love the magical realism / time travel aspect, the characters, the real life, the kids, the lesson around savoring every moment of LIFE. Occasional strong language, closed door spice, death / grief.

On My Nightstand: Current Reads

How to Save a Life by Eva Carter - This book takes places around New Years, so I have been saving it for this time of year. It is more of a literary fiction with a subplot of romance, and I am enjoying it so far! It has been on my physical TBR for a while, along with The Good Part, so it feels really good to be shrinking that as well!

Tired of Being Tired by Jess Connolly - I started this a couple of weeks ago and have slowly been making my way through it. The author breaks down four different types of exhaustion - spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional. I am just now starting the chapter on mental which I feel like might be the one I struggle with the most!

In the Queue: Upcoming Reads

The Other Side of Now by Paige Harbinson - I saw Haley Pham talk about this in her 2025 favorite books video, and it sounds like something I would love! I have discovered that women’s fiction / romance books with a little bit of self-discovery or magical realism or some kind of a list are my absolute favorites. I plan to go pick it up from my library on Friday and start it soon!

People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry - I am planning to reread this and watch the movie next week! The movie comes out on Netflix January 9, 2026. I think I will film a little reading / watching vlog for this - what do you all think?

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The Brain at Rest: How the Art and Science of Doing Nothing Can Improve Your Life by Dr. Joseph Jebelli - In the spirit of some of my New Years resolutions and simply being more curious, I am thinking this will be my next non-fiction read. I find the brain fascinating and have also been wanting to learn more about Sabbath. I think the science of this book will align a lot with biblical wisdom on rest.

More to come, friends!

Caroline