Just Shelved: Recent Reads

Passion Project by London Sperry - This book follows Bennet - a woman living in NYC, stuck in grief - who begins a weekend “passion project” with her recent failed blind date, Henry. I thought this story concept was so unique, and the author did a good job depicting grief and depression in an authentic way while also putting lots of time and emphasis on finding the joy in life. I really loved Henry’s character, and the NYC setting! This does have language and open door spice (258-260, 262-266, 268, 279).

Everything’s Coming Up Rosie by Courtney Walsh - This is my new favorite book of 2025 so far. It has relatable characters, a simple yet lyrical writing style, and beautiful themes of not taking life too seriously, community, and chasing your dreams. It left me feeling so inspired, and I already can’t wait to reread it! No language and no spice!

The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter - This book started with a bit of a mystery that immediately hooked me. You follow a woman who is grieving the loss of her husband, when one night she thinks she sees him at the fair in the town where they first fell in love. She enlists the help of her brother-in-law, Josh, and they seek to solve this mystery together. This had some fun twists and turns, and I always enjoy Denise Hunter’s writing. No language, and no spice.

Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan - If you have a dog and will always have a dog, this one is for you - you’ll understand when you read! This story follows Ali, a mom going through a divorce while also grieving the loss of her own mother. I loved watching Ali find her spark and joy again, and I appreciated the underlying themes in this book about love and loss. Infrequent language, and closed door.

All Along You Were Blooming by Morgan Harper Nichols - I set a goal this year to read a poetry book, and this collection of art, poetry, and prose was the one I decided try. I have always loved lyrics and poems, but I don’t know if I had ever actually read a poetry book until now - just poems on Instagram and Pinterest. This experience was so fun, and I hope to read (and maybe even write?) more poetry in the rest of 2025.

On My Nightstand: Current Reads

The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh - I am only about halfway through this right now, but I think it might be another five star and favorite for 2025 from Courtney Walsh! Kelsey is similar to me in so many ways, and the themes in this book are uplifting and inspiring. I have really been leaning more into the women’s fiction with a subplot of romance genre lately, and I think it’s my sweet spot.

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron - This was in last month’s newsletter and will probably be in next month’s too. It’s a 12 week course designed to help you nurture and rediscover your creativity. Every week, the author gives you tasks to complete that range from activities to journal prompts to week long challenges. This movement from simply to consuming content to actually creating changes is the key to this book. Not to be dramatic, but it’s changing my life!

In the Queue: Upcoming Reads

Every Summer After by Carley Fortune - I have never read a Carley Fortune book, and I really want to pick one up before summer ends. I am hoping to get to this one and One Golden Summer. I believe these both do have a little bit of spice.

Find Your People by Jennie Allen - I have been feeling the pull lately to find more community, along with deepening the relationships I have. For that reason, I think this will be my next non-fiction read! I would also love to pick up another memoir soon - let me know if you have any recommendations!

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More to come, friends!

Caroline