Bull Moon Rising by Ruby Dixon

This was a bit out of the norm for me. It was explicit romantasy. I saw it at the library and the sprayed edges copy were really nice. I had read that this novel was fun due to the fantasy world building. It was good and there was even a nice found family aspect as well. The romance worked well even though the female lead was sheltered and clueless about the world at the start. The smut was fine; however, it was not really why I read it or why I liked it. I actually may read the sequel because the focus will be on Gwen the maid character who seemed much more interesting.

Oct 12-14, 2025.

Our Green Heart: The Soul and Science of Forests by Diana Beresford-Kroeger (narrator)

While looking through my TBR, I found that Irish-Canadian botanist’s memoir. Even more interesting, they are even local to my region. I liked her liting narration. I learned a couple of tree things. I appreciated the hopeful message that individuals can and should be considerate of how they interact with nature.

1.5. Oct 13-15, 2025.

I Am, I Am, I Am: Seventeen Brushes with Death by Maggie O’Farrell, Daisy Donovan (Narrator)

I was looking forward to this memoir after finishing Hamnet. The nature of the stories were dark as the author detailed some very scary situations whether health or threats of physical violence. There was some good writing such as how the moving grief of her miscarriages. While the last couple of essays were hopeful ones, I found most of the book too gloomy and disheartening. It was mirthless. This is a rare case where I think I prefer the fiction work of an author over their nonfiction. Usually, I like them equally or nonfiction slightly more.

1.5-1.75x. Oct 15- 17, 2025.

The House Witch 2 (The House Witch, #2) by Delemhach

This was enjoyable and in some ways better than the first instalment. It was shorter and had less alcohol jokes and binges. There was more of a focus on the romance which was fine. I really like this series for its light hearted tone which is not juvenile. It really is an easy series to reach for when I need a wholesome break.

Sept 24-Oct 5, 2025 on Kobo Clara BW and Kobo Libra 2.

Trespasses by Louise Kennedy

Trying to get through my Irish reading challenge and finally read this. I am beginning to like literary affair novels. Given the setting of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, the book was quite grim. While I think aspects of it was done well, the book left me feeling detached overall. I found the attraction the 24 year old protagonist had for a fifty something man a tad unlikely. Yes, there were class, religious, and possible dad grief issues, but there was something else missing. I think I needed more interior work from the characters.

Oct 5-9, 2025.

Carmilla by J. Sheridan Le Fanu

A great little read! This really should be more widely read. It’s short, well done, and queer. I do not like horror but this is classic gothic style which I can appreciate. While the writing is sometimes overdone, the creepy yet sensual Carmilla was well drawn. The atmosphere of the whole level was nicely done as well. The ending was a deus ex machina and should have been further developed if this was a longer novel. Recommended.

Oct 10-12, 2025 on Kobo Libra 2.