Kicking off 2026 with a little less than I would typically read for January, but I did finish three books. I should have more time soon to read more per month, so I’m not too worried yet about meeting my goal of 50 books for the year, but typically in January I read eight books, so it is a bit of a rough start.
What I Read
Saving Verakko by Victoria Aveline
410 pages | Alien Romance | 4 stars
This is the third book in The Clecanian series. I enjoyed Verakko and Lily’s interactions more than the couple in the second book, but I still liked the first one in the series best so far. I also liked that this was the first glimpse into another city in the world.
59 Minutes by Holly Seddon
320 pages | Thriller | 5 stars
I wasn’t sure about reading this one at first since the premise of the book feels a bit too close to reality at the moment, but I’m glad I read it. The countdown as the bomb nears is gripping, and it was hard to stop reading once I started. The way the women’s lives intertwine and the twist at the end was so good. While the premise was scary, this book highlights the resilience of people and the need for community during crisis, and that gives me hope.
Read my full review for 59 Minutes
Tempting Auzed by Victoria Aveline
373 pages | Alien Romance | 5 stars
This is the fourth book in the Clecanian series, and I think I enjoyed this one just as much as the first one. Alex and Auzed’s interactions felt natural to me. I also liked that a third city was introduced, and the characters spent the majority of the book in this new city so it felt more explored than the city in the third book.
Favorite Book of the Month
My favorite book this month was 59 Minutes by Holly Seddon. It was not an easy book to read, but I think it gave me a perspective of resilience despite the circumstances, and it gives me hope for the future.
What was your favorite book?
I would love to hear what books you loved in January, and what you’re excited to read this year. Leave them in the comments!
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Notes from the Shelf 
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