One thing about me? I am very much a “mood reader,” but I love having a cozy little stack to pull from, half escapism, half self-growth, all very on-brand for my current season of life. Between night shifts, corporate days, and trying to keep my life even slightly organized, reading has become a soft little ritual that helps me reset.
So here’s what’s sitting on my nightstand, in my bag, or on my Kindle this month.
The Shadows Between Us — Tricia Levenseller
A fast, spicy, villain-gets-the-girl fantasy with backstabbing, banter, and the kind of morally gray chaos I absolutely live for. It’s quick, addictive, and exactly the type of “just one more chapter” book I get in trouble with.
The Serpent & the Wings of Night — Carissa Broadbent
A dark, atmospheric, enemies-to-lovers fantasy with actual plot and actual tension. Everyone keeps saying this scratches the same itch as my other favorites, so I’m diving in.
The Ashes & the Star-Cursed King — Carissa Broadbent
The sequel I fully plan on inhaling the moment I finish book one. I’ve heard the vibes are immaculate, intense, emotional, and magical in that addictive way.
The Hurricane Wars — Thea Guanzon
A slow-burn, political, Asian-inspired fantasy romance with gorgeous writing and deep character tension. Basically, everything I love wrapped in one book.
One Dark Window — Rachel Gillig
Dark fairytale vibes, gothic atmosphere, a cursed magic system, and a monster that may or may not be lovable. This feels like pure cozy-night energy.
The Mountain Is You — Brianna Wiest
A soft call-out book. A “here’s why you keep getting in your own way” book. A “let’s be self-aware without spiraling” book. I already know I’m taking notes.
The Comfort Book — Matt Haig
Short, cozy reflections that feel like a warm blanket. Perfect for reading before bed or after a long shift when my brain needs something gentle.
Slow Productivity — Cal Newport
A book I desperately need right now. I’m tired of feeling guilty for resting, this feels like the cure to that.
The Power of Letting Go — John Purkiss
Exactly what it sounds like: unclenching, releasing control, and relearning how to breathe in busy seasons. Very “January reset” energy.
Atomic Habits (Revisit) — James Clear
Re-reading this one for simple, realistic habit shifts. Nothing intense, nothing dramatic, just small things that help life feel more manageable.
This month’s TBR is a mix of chaos and calm, fantasy worlds that pull me in immediately, and gentle growth reads that help me feel like a functioning person again. A perfect balance for this season of work, shifts, and cozy evenings.
The Woods Way 