Happy December everyone. I hope your November was full of rest, relaxation, and some good reading time. November is my birthday month, so I got to do some fun things for that. I read some great books, enjoyed some family time, and overall had a fun month. Here is what I did for November!

What I Read

Remember you can read my full reviews on my Instagram.

Facing Off by Sookh Kaur

Genre: Romance

Rating: 4/5

A sports romance (hockey and ballet) with two very different people who must work together. Sonya to overcome her yips, and Adrian being a people pleaser, and possibly they fall in love.

Read if you like: Grumpy x Sunshine, Sports Romance, and He Falls First

Carnival Fantastico by Angela Montoya

Publication Date: February 3, 2026

Genre: YA Fantasy

Rating: 4/5

Ignacio and Esmeralda must work together to put on the best show, and find evidence to take down the Commander.

Read if you like: Night Circus Vibes, Friends to Lovers, and Magic

How to Seal Your Own Fate by Kristen Perrin

Genre: Cozy Mystery

Rating: 4/5

Annie must solve a new murder, but this might just connect to a murder almost 60 years before. Can she do it without putting herself in danger again?

Read if you like: Cozy Mystery, Small Town, and Amateur Sleuth

Arrow of Fortune by Jacquelyn Benson

Genre: Historical Fantasy

Rating: 5/5

The group travels to India to find a lost relic before colonizers do and use it for evil. Will they make it in time?

Read if you like: History and Magic, Indiana Jones Vibes, and Romance

Amused to Death by Ashley Albi

Genre: Cozy Mystery

Rating: 4/5

Scarlett gets involved, again, in a murder that took place years ago. Will she figure it out before something happens to her, again?

Read if you like: Small Town Mystery, Quick Read, and Friendship

Love Apptually by Alyssa Jarrett

Genre: Romance

Rating: 5/5

Casey, a stylist, must help a tech bro find his style that doesn’t include tight workout shirts and basketball shorts. But is there more to the man than she realizes?

Read if you like: Spicy Romance, Enemies to Lovers, and a Bit of Tech Vibes

What I Watched

I have been watching mostly my shows now that they are back for the year. I did not watch anything new. I did watch The Mummy because it is one of my favorites and I was able to record it since it is on streaming that I don’t have.

These are the shows I watch:

Tracker, FBI, Watson, NCIS, NCIS: Sydney, Elsbeth, Ghosts, 911, 911: Nashville, Brilliant Minds, Happy’s Place, and High Potential

What I Did

My Birthday!!

November was my birthday month. I was able to do some lowkey things for it which i loved! I got my hair done the day before. It is one of my favorite ways for self care. I have been seeing my hairstylist for 13 years, which is crazy to think about. She always does an amazing job. Then my dad took me to buy a new yoga mat and some yoga clothes. The day of my birthday, my best friend came down with her child and she met my dad and I at a German restaurant that I love. We had a late lunch and then went back to my dad’s house for some cake. It was lovely to just hang out and not do too much. I don’t need a lot when it comes to birthdays, so this was a perfect way for me to celebrate.

Apple Hill

My favorite fall activity is going to Apple Hill. This is an area in the foothills of California, just outside the city of Placerville. There you can visit many different farms that sell apples, baked goods, cider, and have attractions for all ages. It is a great way to spend a fall day. I love to get apple donuts, wine sap apples, and this raspberry apple cream cheese pie. This is an excellent day trip to take and have some fall vibes and weather, usually.

Book Club

We had our last book club meeting of the year. We were able to have it at a local winery that specializes in sparkling wine. The venue was lovely and welcoming. We had people come and work on some bedazzling their books, people reading, and just chatting. Overall, a great way to end the year.

Love and Tech Book Fest

I was lucky enough to attend the first ever romance book festival in Santa Clara, California. To learn more, read my article about it here.

Thanksgiving

I spent Thanksgiving with my dad at my cousin’s house. It was fun to see people I had not seen in a while. The food was delicious and the company was great.

Decorated for Christmas

I, of course, decorated for Christmas. I decorate after Thanksgiving because I believe in one holiday at a time, so Christmas doesn’t start until after Thanksgiving. I went a bit overboard with the lights, but I am loving it.

I hope everyone had a lovely November, and your December is not too chaotic.

Happy Reading!

🧡 Jacquelyn

Hello friends,

A little late for this! Sorry about that. October was a very stressful month. My mom was in and out of the hospital for about half the month. I am the closest family member, so I was the point person for that. I am finally catching up on things and trying to get back to a routine. I did not get to read as much as I wanted in October. I only read four books for my spooky reading challenge even though I had five planned. I did a couple more things, and here is what I did.

What I Read

Play Nice by Rachel Harrison

Genre: Horror

Rating: 3/5

A dead mom and an inherited house, but is the house possessed like their mom believed? Follow Clio as she remodels and learns more about her childhood.

This book fell flat for me. There wasn’t enough about the house and the possession with the being. It was more about family dynamics than the house. It was fine, but not what I was wanting.

If you like some creepy vibes, interesting family dynamics, and an unreliable narrator, this book is for you.

Just Like Home by Sarah Gailey

Genre: Horror

Rating: 3/5

Vera is asked to come home to sort out the house as her mother is dying. But she will have to contend with what happened with her serial killer father, and what she did and saw.

This book was also a disappointment for me. A serial killer’s house that could be haunted sounded so good. But it again was more about the family dynamics and the past and not what was happening. Finding out what was haunting was not what I was expecting but not in a good way. Overall, also a flat book for me and not that scary.

If you like dual timelines, odd people, and questionable decisions, this is for you.

What Feasts at Night by T. Kingfisher

Genre: Horror

Rating: 5/5

Alex Easton is returning home. But when they get there, they find a dead caretaker and people not wanting to talk about it. But is there something haunting their property? And will it take another life?

This was such a good book. It was a great sequel, but also could be a bit of a stand alone. It was creepy and just what I wanted in an October book.

If you like short stories, unsettling dreams, and a little mystery this book is for you.

How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix

Genre: Horror

Rating: 4/5

Louise returns home after her parents died in a car accident. When she gets there she has to deal with her brother, and now her past. But something is in the house, and possibly making her mom’s puppets come alive. Will Louise and her brother survive this?

This was what I was wanting from a haunted house book. The dolls and puppets coming alive were creepy and gave me the chills. The story was interesting and well done. The ending was interesting, not sure if I would have gone there but it was a good way of ending it.

If you like to be freaked out, sibling dynamics, and don’t mind puppets, this book is for you.

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What I Watched

The Addams Family (1991)

Genre: Dark Comedy

Rating: PG-13

Streaming: Paramount+

This is my favorite version of the Addams Family. I love the actors for every character and think they did an amazing job. It is a fun and silly movie that makes me happy.

Hocus Pocus (1993)

Genre: Dark Fantasy

Rating: PG

Streaming: Disney+

Every Halloween I watch Hocus Pocus. It is my favorite spooky season movie to watch. It is silly, fun, and while a bit cringe at times, a great time of a movie.

Only Murders in the Building Season 5

Genre: Murder Mystery

Rating: TV-MA

Streaming: Hulu

I finished the new season and it was so amazing! I loved it! The ending was WOW! I am excited for next season and what it will bring.

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What I Did

Mystique Market at Sacramento Historic City Cemetery

A witchy market took place in a cemetery and I loved it! If you have seen any of my notes or posts on Instagram for the Dark Goddesses Oracle Deck I got that here. I also got a mug with some bats on it and a mug shaped like a coffin. It was a nice day with a lot of cool vendors.

Local Street Fair

The first Sunday of October is my local street fair! It is my favorite event of the year, though it also does happen in May. My best friend came over and went with me. It’s fun to walk around and see all of the vendors and find new things to buy. My friend even had her popup bookshop there!

Baked Pumpkin Bread

One thing I wanted to do this fall was bake pumpkin bread, and I did! It was delicious and I was able to share it with my coworkers and a friend of my dads. It turned out pretty good and I can’t wait to bake some more!

Bookshop Popup

My friend had her bookshop pop up at a winery as part of a market event. It was fun to see them still growing. I also got some delicious cookies.

Book Clubs

Of course the month wouldn’t be a fun month without my book clubs. We had our silent book club which was a lot of fun. It was at a coffee shop I hadn’t been to yet. It was delicious and such a nice day.

We had my online one (technically November 1), and it was great to chat about books. But also just to chat!

Dinner with a Friend

My friend and I have been trying to have lunch together each month. We went to a favorite place of mine. We had some good drinks and delicious pizza.

Facial

I love my esthetician! She is amazing. She is sweet, caring, and so good at her job. She even gave me a discount for my birthday! I love seeing her and my face looks and feels amazing. I even did my first peel.

That was my October and while stressed I had some good moments as well. Here is hoping November is a better month!

Until next time friends,

🧡 Jacquelyn

Hello friends,

It is finally my favorite time of the year! Fall is here and I am so excited. It’s the time for the weather to start cooling, maybe some rain, and of course my birthday. September was fun and I can’t wait to share with you what I did.

Also, I am so sorry I missed last week. My mom had a stroke and I was dealing with everything. All the stress and I forgot to get a newsletter out, but I hope you enjoy this one!

What I Read

Alchemy of Secrets by Stephanie Garber

Genre: Fantasy

Rating: 5/5

A fantasy mystery involving: a mysterious college course, stories that may be real, and possibly the devil. Follow Harper as she tries to stay alive.

The Hurricane Wars by Thea Guanzon

Genre: Fantasy

Rating: 4/5

A region at war. A young woman who lost everything and has now found something new. Will she be able to save her people? What will it take to make these two enemies work together?

The Legend of the Leaf by L.L. Gray

Genre: Cozy Mystery

Rating: 5/5

The next book in the Havenwood series. Follow Harper as she tries and solves the mystery of a dead professor and a mystical beast that no one is sure of.

How to Solve Your Own Murder by Kristen Perrin

Genre: Mystery

Rating: 5/5

An English countryside house, a woman who believed she would be murdered found dead, and a great niece who has to solve it to get her inheritance.

A Tempest of Tea by Hafsah Faizal

Genre: YA Fantasy

Rating: 4/5

A young woman whose business is in jeopardy must create a team to steal something. This could be what will save her livelihood.

Cowboy Casual by Holly Renee

Genre: Romance

Rating: 5/5

A second chance romance. Blaire returns home after a failed engagement. And now she must interact with her high school love Colt. What will happen between these two long lost lovers?

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What I Watched

NCIS: Tony and Ziva

Genre: Police Procedural Drama

Rating: TV-14

Streaming: Paramount+

I love the show NCIS. I have watched for years now. So I was so excited when they announced this new show. Tony and Ziva were some of my favorite characters. Getting to see what their lives are like after they are off the show has been so fun. Their dynamic is the same as before. These actors really just slipped back into their roles. Also the mystery and thrill is so good!

Only Murders in the Building Season 5

Genre: Murder Mystery

Rating: TV-MA

Streaming: Hulu

Last month I rewatched OMITB in preparation for the new season and it is so fun. This show is so silly and a bit stupid. But I love that it doesn’t take itself too seriously, which I love. The season has been fun so far. The mystery is interesting and I am excited to see what happens next!

What I Did

Kayaking

For Labor Day, I decided to go kayaking for the first time. I went to my local lake and was able to rent a kayak. I had a lot of fun. It was a bit too warm for me, but overall, I would try kayaking again.

Train Concert

Two friends and I went up to a winery that has an amphitheater for a Train concert! It was a bit last minute in that we randomly found the concert listed and decided why not. The opening act was Edwin McCain. And while he was good, his songs were a bit too slow for an opening act. Train, however, was phenomenal! They were fun, energetic, and I realized I liked a lot more of their songs then I realized. We had a fun time sitting on the lawn, having some sangria and food, and enjoying some music.

1 Year Silent Book Club

We celebrated 1 year!! I can’t believe that we made it to 1 year. We have had so much fun with our meetings. We went to a local brewery, had some pizza and mozzarella sticks, and cupcakes. We had some new people come which is always exciting. Overall, a great way to celebrate our 1 year!

Facial

I have a new self-care event. I am getting facials. I am not doing it every month, but every other month or so. What I love about these facials is how long they are and what it entails. This is an hour and a half long facial and includes a facial massage. She does a complete treatment and gives your face, neck, and upper shoulders a massage too! She is so lovely and her treatments are amazing!

Dinner with a Friend

A friend and I have been trying to have dinner together once a month. This month we went for pizza and it was delicious!

Book Popup

My friend started a bookshop and until they can get a brick and mortar store, they do popups! I went to one at a winery for them. The wine was good and the popup was cute! I am so proud and happy for them.

Friends Daughters First Birthday

My best friend’s daughter turned 1! I can’t believe my little niece is one year old. The time has gone by so fast. It was a fun and low key party and I was so glad I got to be there.

Spooky Book Exchange

We partnered with another book club to do a spooky book exchange. Where people bring spooky books and then they get to leave with a new one. It was fun, and people seemed to have enjoyed it. We will hopefully do another one but not a themed one.

Thanks for reading about my September! I hope you enjoyed this and maybe found some new books to read! Until next time!

🧡 Jacquelyn

Hello friends,

Happy Labor Day! If you have the day off, I hope you are enjoying it and get to do something fun. But today means a new month, so it’s time for another monthly roundup. August was definitely a weird month for me. I don’t know about anyone else. But when it got to the last week, I thought it was actually the start of September. So the last week felt off and work was also weird. But, I had a good time in August. Read some good books, watch some shows, and did some fun things! So without further ado, here we go!

What I Read

Raiders of the Lost Heart by Jo Segura

Genre: Romance

Rating: 4/5

A cute romance that mixes enemies to lovers, archaeology, and adventure. This was a fun and sexy book. A quick read that hit just right.

Temple of Swoon by Jo Segura

Genre: Romance

Rating: 4/5

The second in the series, another sexy book about some adventurers. Though I wish it had a bit more archaeology like the first one. But another quick read that will hit that romance fix.

Water Moon by Samantha Sotto Yambao

Genre: Fantasy

Rating: 5/5

A magical realism book that took me away. The imagery of this book was spectacular. I didn’t even need the romance aspect of it. If you want a book that feeds your need for beautiful descriptions, this is the one.

Skylark by Megan Michelle

Genre: Romance

Rating: 4/5

A friends to lovers military romance. A woman who is a badass navy seal who wants to save the world. While Rachel can be a bit much for me, she is a complicated character that really shows through the page. An amazing debut.

What I Watched

Only Murders in the Building

Genre: Murder Mystery

Rating: TV-MA

Streaming: Hulu

The new season of OMITB starts September 9th, so of course I needed to rewatch the show before the new season. I love this show so much. It is the right amount of mystery, comedy, and ridiculousness. Selena Gomez, Steve Martin, and Martin Short are a combination that I never would have put together. If you haven’t watched this yet, I highly recommend you do!

9-1-1 Lone Star

Genre: Procedural Drama

Rating: TV-14

Streaming: Hulu

I watched the original 9-1-1 and enjoyed it. So I decided to try this one out. I am enjoying it and am loving Rob Lowe in this role. While it focuses on first responders as a whole, I like the fire fighter aspect the most. The characters are fun and diverse. It is a fun procedural that I can watch and enjoy.

What I Did

Breakfast with a friend

I was lucky enough to get to have breakfast with a friend I made in Scotland! We met up for breakfast in Livermore. The place was great with amazing food. We chatted about what was happening with life. It was fun to meet with a new friend.

80s Cover Band 

My friend invited me to an 80s cover band at a bar on the Sacramento River. It was of course a hot day, but luckily the bar’s outside space was shaded and they had large fans to help combat the heat. The food was pretty good. The drinks were great. The band was a lot of fun! They played music I mostly knew, but some I didn't. And, I have sensitive ears so loud music hurts them, but I bought Loops earplugs and they work amazingly! I was surprised by how much they helped so I could enjoy the music, but still talk with people. It was a nice warm evening hanging with friends, listening to music and having a drink or two.

Human Design Session

Do you love astrology? Love taking personality tests? Then Human Design might be your next obsession. I have heard of human design before. Basically, it looks at your time, day, and place of birth to tell you which one of five human design types you are. The types are: Manifestor, Generator, Manifesting Generator, Projector, and Reflector. There are so many layers to it that I can’t go into it in this post. But, I paid for someone to read my chart and help me understand how to live an aligned life. It was so informative and spot on. I was honestly surprised. But now I have tools that I can use to help me live a life that I love and I feel aligned with. 

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Book Club

Of course the month wouldn’t be great without our monthly silent book club. Doing this book club has been such a fun experience. I never thought I would be doing something like it. We had it at a coffee shop and sat outside under a nice awning. There was a new person who joined which was lovely. It is nice to have dedicated time to get together with fellow readers.

I missed my online book club though. The week got away from me and I spaced on it. It’s ok, because there will be others.

Audiobook Walk

For my silent book club, we did a special summer event where every other month we did an audiobook walk. Basically, anyone who wants can join, bring some headphones and an audiobook and we get some exercise. This was at a park. It was a bit too warm, but we walked about 2 miles and had a nice time outside. This was a fun way to get outside and get some exercise.

Bought New Planner

It’s one of my new favorite times of the year. New Planner! Hobonichi, a planner from Japan, released their new 2026 planners, and I was able to get one. I got my first last year, and I absolutely love it. I get the HON A5 size. The layout really got me. There is a yearly page, monthly, weekly, and a daily. I use the daily as a journal. The weekly is great for work and appointments. It really is my favorite planner I have ever had. I think because I can never decide all of what I want from one and this gives me everything in one. I am excited to get it and start filling it in with all my fun adventures for next year!

Popup for Friends Bookshop

One of my friends and her friend started a popup bookshop. I am so proud of them, so of course I try and go to any popups they have just to show support. I also call myself their unofficial mascot. 

I hope everyone had a great August!

💜 Jacquelyn

Hello friends,

Another month here and another month gone, which means it's time for another monthly roundup. July was a fun filled month with lots of great reads and events. I love getting to share this with you as I hope it gives you a small glimpse into my life. 

So without further ado here we go!

What I Read

The Possession of Alba Díaz by Isabel Cañas

Genre: Horror

Release Date: August 19, 2025

A plague has ravaged Zacatecas, Alba and her family head to the mountains with her fiance’s’ family. But something demonic has taken over Alba and she can trust only one person to help her.

A gothic horror that had me captivated from the beginning. A beautiful conversation on bodily autonomy. Probably my favorite Isabel Cañas book yet.

The Shadow Bride by Shelby Mahurin

Genre: YA Fantasy

Célie is now a vampire and she has to learn how to live this new undead life. But darkness lurks and the spirit realm is starting to bleed into the living. Will she be able to stop it and save her sister?

A great way to end the duology and leave this world. The end wasn’t what I was expecting but still good.

Other People’s Houses by Clare Mackintosh

Genre: Mystery

Release Date: September 16, 2025

DC Ffion Morgan is working a case of a woman found dead in a kayak. DS Leo Brady is working burglaries in a wealthy neighborhood. What they will find is that these cases are more connected than they realize.

This series has become one of my favorites. I love that the author is a police officer (or former I am unclear on that). This gives me a better understanding of the system since I don’t know how the UK system works.

The Last Mrs. Parrish by Liv Constantine

Genre: Mystery

Trigger Warning: Descriptions and depictions of domestic abuse

The Parrish’s are a wealthy family who have it all. And Amber will do whatever it takes to get that life. But not everything is what it seems and Amber and Daphne Parrish’s lives will be changed forever.

This book was a fun one. I knew where most of it was going, which I didn't mind. I was waiting for a twist that didn’t come, but other than that I enjoyed it.

A Tour to Die For by 

Genre: Mystery

Release Date: September 23, 2025

Capri Sanzio, a tour guide in San Francisco, finds herself involved in another case. A guest of her tour sees a woman attacked, the police find nothing. But is there more to this case? Will Capri be able to solve it without getting hurt or in trouble, again?

This is the second in what I hope will be an ongoing series. As someone who has spent time in San Francisco, I love seeing it from a book point of view. I also learned some new true crime facts I didn’t know. If you want a mystery series where the main character is a woman in her 50s, read this one.

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What I Watched

Sinners

Genre: Horror

Rating: R

Streaming: HBO Max

I am not a horror movie person. So I was a little apprehensive of watching this, but I heard nothing but good things. So I watched it, and I am so glad I did. Personally, I didn’t think it was a horror movie, but I still loved it. The acting was amazing. The music was just incredible and Miles Caton did an incredible job. He really has a voice for blues music. I found the fact that the story was told over a 24 hour period compelling and really worked for the movie. The cast was incredible! Overall, this movie was amazing and definitely recommended to watch.

Shiny Happy People

Genre: Documentary

Streaming: Prime

I watched season 1 of this documentary which was about the Duggar Family and the IBLP movement. This was a well done documentary and I found it compelling. To hear from one of the daughters of the Duggars was compelling, though I wish there had been more talk about certain aspects, but I get why she didn’t want to. Seeing how the IBLP has really come into our society and changed aspects was a bit eyeopening. It really did make me question if we would be where we are if the Duggar’s had never gotten a TV show. I also thought it was great that they got people who were part of the movement but have since broken away. Overall, if you know a bit about the Duggar’s and want to learn more, or if you know nothing but like documentaries, watch this one.

What I did

Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP)

My friend and I went SUP on our local lake for the Fourth of July. This was my first time and I was nervous about how I would do. I thought I would definitely fall in at least once. I was proud that I didn’t. It was fun and a great workout. We only did it for an hour but it felt like plenty of time. The weather was perfect! The water was a little cold but not too bad. I will be doing this again this summer!

Facial

I haven’t had a facial in probably close to 10 years. While on instagram I found this local esthetician and her posts grabbed me. I liked that she did a facial massage with it. This was the best facial I have ever had! It was 1.5 hours long. We did stretches before the facial. She walked me through a little meditation. The facial was so relaxing. She did a facial massage with it as well. It was so good, I am getting another one in September! 

Local Con

One aspect I love about my job is getting to do fun things outside of my typical job duties. We have a local con event where we get a booth in exchange for the visiting artists getting a dinner at the museum. I love working the con. Meeting people, seeing the costumes, seeing the celebrities that show up, and seeing the amazing artists. 

Book Club

Of course my month wouldn’t be complete without my book clubs. We did our silent book club in a local wine and cider tasting room. They are always so nice and welcoming. We are even partnering with their book club for a book exchange!

My other one is with Victoria of Bibliolifestyle. It is always fun to get together and talk about life and books!

Singles Event

My therapist challenged me to find an event where I could meet people. So, I found one at a bookstore. It was different but fun. We all had name tags where we put our name but also hobbies that we like. Once inside the host had us do three 20 minute sessions. Each session was broken into three groups that we could choose from (eg. round one was travel, classics, and cooking). It was a nice way to have an ice breaker instead of just mingling with people. Afterwards, you could buy some books and then go to a coffee shop to chat if you so chose. This was a great event and if you find something like this near you, take a chance and try it!

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I hope everyone had a lovely July and your August is just as amazing.

🩵 Jacquelyn

Hello Friends and Happy July!

June was a busy month for me with events and work. But I was able to get some good reading in and watch some fun shows. So here are the fun things I read and did in June.

What I read:

House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J Maas

Genre: Urban Fantasy

This book had me captivated from the very beginning with the murder mystery. Add in the elements of fantasy and mythical creatures, and it was a great book for me.

The Bewitching by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Genre: Popular Fiction/Fantasy

Release Date: July 15, 2025

A book told over three different time frames, with the story connecting in the end, this ARC was captivating and magical. I enjoyed how the story intertwined.

Heart Strings by Ivy Fairbanks

Genre: Romance

Release Date: August 12, 2025

A second chance romance set among the backdrop of Ireland. These two lovebirds will have to interact as their best friends get married. I loved this book! Getting to really delve into their relationship and watch it grow was amazing.

The Mayhem in the Masquerade by L.L. Gray

Genre: Cozy Mystery

A magical town is dealing with the kidnapping of a famous author. All while trying to keep magic underwraps and make sure they find the man before something worse happens. This was such a fun and cute book. This series is a fun cozy series any time of year.

Hot Wax by M.L. Rio

Genre: Mystery

Release Date:  September 9, 2025

A woman is on a journey of discovery. Mostly to figure out what happened that summer in 1989 when she was on tour with her dad and his band. This book blends music, tension, intrigue, and mystery all in one. Check it out in September, a perfect fall time read.

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What I watched:

Psych

Running on USA Network from 2006 to 2014, Shawn Spencer fakes being a psychic to help the Santa Barbara Police Department. Along with his best friend Gus, they get into shenanigans but still manage to solve cases. 

This is one of my favorite shows that I love rewatching. The comedy, the characters, and the fun keeps bringing me back. There are also three movies that came out after the show: Psych The Movie, Psych 2: Lassie Come Home, and Psych 3: This is Gus. You can find Psych and all the movies on Peacock.

The Librarians: The Next Chapter 

The Library, a secret magical place where magical artifacts are kept safe, has some new blood coming. If you watched the Noah Wylie movies, and the Librarians tv show, this is a fun continuation of the story but giving it fresh eyes and voices. You can watch this show on TNT.

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What I did

Work event

I helped out at a work event. I got to serve shots of tequila to guests!

Book club x2

I had my two book clubs. First was my Silent Book Club with my friend. We had a picnic at our local lake. The weather was gorgeous. We sat under the trees close to the water and enjoyed the view, some food and drinks, books, and good company

I also had my online one with Victoria from Bibliolifestyle. If you haven’t, go follow her and see what she is up to.

Yoga

I try and do yoga twice a week. I go to a studio and do a warm slow flow and a yin class. I have found I like yoga but not when it is being treated like an exercise class. I want to do the moves but not feel like I am just moving through them fast. I love these two classes.

Jury Duty

I had jury duty! Luckily it was quick and easy. I went in for two hours. Got excused because my job doesn’t pay for jury duty. 

Dinner with a friend

Finally I had a lovely dinner with my friend. We had not seen each other in a while so it was so nice to catch up.

My June was fun and full of so many events! I am excited about what is coming up in July.

I hope you all had an amazing June and fabulous July!

💜 Jacquelyn

Hello Friends,

It is the start of a new month, so I decided to do highlights of what I was up to in May. I thought this would be a fun way to share my life in a bite sized way. So, here are all the things I did, read, ate, and watched.

What I read:

Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

A delightful fantasy book with lovable villains, magical creatures, and a job that has amazing benefits but also some odd events. Also a frog that holds signs.

The Seventh Veil of Salome by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Historical fiction about 1950s Hollywood, focusing on two women relating to the movie and the person who inspired it.

The Missing Half by Ashley Flowers

Two missing women, and the sisters they left behind. Can they figure out what happened to the sisters they miss or will something worse happen.

Bridesmaid for Hire by Meghan Quinn

A cute romance book following a wedding planner and her brother’s best friend who pretend to date to get an in with a rich family. All while on vacation on an island.

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What I watched:

Criminal Minds

One of my favorite shows that I am almost always rewatching. I am loving the new season.

Crazy Rich Asians

After reading Park Avenue by Renée Ahdieh, I decided to watch this movie for the first time. It was a delightful movie and one I would watch again.

Captain America Brave New World

The new Captain America was an ok movie. I was entertained. Anthony Mackie did great. Otherwise, it was fine.

Fun things I ate:

Fish and Chips with Aperol Spritz

While in Scotland, I of course had to have fish and chips. And they were delicious! I had an aperol spritz with it which was also good.

British Steak and Nicholson’s Pale Ale Pie with Rekorderlig Wild Berries Cider

A delicious savory pie of steak in a pale ale gravy encased in a thyme pastry pie. It was so good! And the cider was amazing!

Events:

Trip to Scotland

Check out my write up on my trip to Scotland! It was one of the best trips I have taken

Silent Book Club Meeting

A friend and I started a silent book club and we had our monthly meeting. We met at a brewery and had a small group come and chat and read books together. If you want a fun book club that doesn’t involve assigned reading, find your local Silent Book Club.

Sacramento Book Festival

I had the chance to go to the Sacramento Book Festival in May. It was a fun festival of local authors and publishing presses. My only complaint is that they need a larger venue because with all the table it made the aisles narrow and with all the people it made it hard to walk through. If you wanted to stop and talk to someone it also felt a bit like you were blocking the way. Overall, it is nice to have an event like this in the area.

Thank you for reading and following along. I hope you all have a great June. If you feel inclined, I would love if you could share this with someone who you think would enjoy it.

💜 Jacquelyn