Reading Wrap-Up: September 2025
This month I wrapped up two more books toward my goal of fifty-two. Spoiler: I’m probably not going to make it, and that’s okay. At the start of the year, I had no idea how much space writing would take up in my life. Between editing my novel, diving into a new project, running my photography business, and motherhood, I’m learning to treasure the little pockets of reading time I can find.
Here’s what I read in September and what I’m excited to pick up in October!
What I Finished Reading
📘 All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker – Layered and complex, with characters who felt real—no clear good guys or bad guys, just people with flaws and strengths. The story was unique, blending thriller, mystery, and literary fiction. At times it felt long and a little hard to follow, but overall a wild ride with much to appreciate. Probably wouldn’t reread, but definitely recommend. 4 stars.
📗 Counting the Cost by Jill Duggar – Listened on audio (my first book on Libby—love it!). I never watched the TLC show, but knew a bit about the family. Growing up in a strict religion myself, parts of Jill’s story felt very familiar. Interesting look at how reality TV affected her faith and family, and she touches on the Josh controversy enough to give context without going into too much detail. 4 stars.
What I’m Still Reading
📙 We Are All Guilty Here by Karin Slaughter – Honestly, I might just not be a Slaughter fan. Too many characters, a jarring time jump, and very long chapters. I’m trudging through but not loving it.
📘 Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez – Barely started this one (just a couple chapters in), since I’ve been focused on other reads. Plan to circle back soon.
📗 The Alice Network by Kate Quinn – Another slow start. It’s a book club pick, so I’ll need to push through if I want to join the discussion.
📕 Sociopath by Patric Gagne – Loving this one! I’m listening on Libby, and it’s fascinating. Memoirs are always my favorite on audio.
The Book(s) I Didn’t Finish (But Might Someday)
📗 A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara – Not a full DNF, I just needed a break y’all! This one is a lot to take in, so I’m setting it aside for now and will come back when I’m in the right headspace.
Looking Ahead: October TBR
So here’s the thing… I’m pretty sure I won’t get to all of these. But I’m a mood reader, and I like having options. With so many books on my shelves, it can get overwhelming, so narrowing it down helps. These are my top picks for October—the books I’d love to read (along with finishing the ones I’ve already started, of course).
📘 A Withches Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna – My virtual book club pick this month! I gave Mandanna’s other witchy book 5 stars, so I’m excited to dive into this cozy fantasy full of magic, secrets, and a touch of romance.
📗 The Measure by Nikki Erlick – My local book club pick. Everyone receives a box with the number of years they have left to live…an irresistible premise. This one’s been on my TBR a few times, so I’m glad book club is giving me the push to finally read it.
📕 Lock Every Door by Riley Sager – A woman becomes an apartment sitter in a luxurious building with a dark past. Riley Sager is perfect for spooky season, so this feels like the right time to finally pick it up.
📙 Good Morning, Monster by Catherine Gildiner – A therapist shares five unforgettable client stories that read like novels. My Libby hold should be ready soon, and I’m really looking forward to this one on audio.
📘 The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling – A witchy rom-com about a hex gone wrong in a small town. It was on my October list last year, so it’s about time I finally read it!
Let me know what you read this month or what’s on your October list—I’m always down for new recs!
“Some people are nice and some people are kind. Niceness is good manners. Kindness on the other hand runs deep. Kindness is what happens when no one’s looking.”
