2022 Book List

I started keeping track of my reading a couple years ago and find it helpful to be able to look back at my list. As I finish each book, I share it and a mini review in real-time on my Instagram Stories and I also keep an updated list here.

If you’re interested in my previous lists, you can find them here: 2020 Book List and 2021 Book List. Feel free to bookmark this page, as I will keep it updated as I finish each book. I’ll also stick a link to this post over on the right sidebar for easy access.

Here are the books I’ve read so far in 2022:

Book #, Information & Link	Mini Book Review
Book #1 of 2022: The Woman Who Met Her Match by Fiona Gibson	This one was quite a slog Women in mid-40’s looks for love and deals with a dead-end career. I didn’t love the main character and the happy ending was kind of lame.
Book #2 of 2022: Heart & Seoul by Jen Frederick	After her father dies, a Korean adoptee impulsively decides to visit Korea. Which turns into her meeting new friends, tracking down family and falling in love. Beautiful book, but the bittersweet ending was not what I was hoping for. BUT, I just saw the sequel is coming out on January 25th… so maybe I’ll get my happy ending after all!
Book #3 of 2022: Fable (Fable 1) by Adrienne Young	An action packed pirate tale with complex characters and a strong female lead. From the first chapter, I was rooting for Fable to succeed. I inhaled the entire book and the story will conclude in the sequel which is thankfully already out!
Book #4 of 2022: Namesake (Fable 2), by Adrienne Young	The second and final book in the Fable series. Absolutely beautiful writing with more danger, deception and betrayal. All the story pieces come together in the finale and I highly recommend this book (and the series) for all adventure lovers!
Book #5 of 2022: The Complete Mediterranean Cookbook by American Test Kitchen	A really good overview of the benefits of a Mediterranean diet followed by over 400 pages of recipes. So. Many. Recipes. It’s almost overwhelming, but I’m going to pick a couple to start with.
Book #6 02 2022: Black Water Sister by Zen Cho	You guys. This book was really weird. The main character was haunted by the ghost of her grandmother and then another god/ghost joins in. There is a gangster boss and she gets possessed and just all kinds of what-the-hell-is-happening-now going on.
Book #7 of 2022: Deconstructed by Liz Talley	Cricket finds out her husband has been cheating on her and decides to make him pay. The book was building and building and building to the end and I am absolutely a reader who enjoys a cheating asshole getting his comeuppance. Highly recommend!
Book #8 of 2022: Dear Highlights by Christine French Cully	I loved Highlights magazine when I was a kid, so I picked this up with those warm-fuzzies in mind. Unfortunately, this was more of a Q&A advice book of kid questions and adult answers and it was very, very boring.
Book #9 of 2022: Open Book by Jessica Simpson	I was never a big Jessica Simpson fan and really didn’t know a lot about her other than what the media said. Holy crap this memoir is fantastic! So much depth and humor and behind the scenes stories. I was rooting for her the whole way. I’m so happy she made it out the other side of fame and is happy and healthy! And, I’d totally be her friend.
Book #10 of 2022: Take the Lead by Jessica Simpson	After reading Open Book, I saw that this essay/short story was available on Kindle Unlimited. A short and sweet look into Jessica’s life as a mom during a pandemic. Encouragements for growth and letting go. A great addition to her main book if you enjoyed it!
Book #11 of 2022: Marriage is Murder (Witches of Keyhole Lake 15) by Tegan Maher	Another fun murder mystery for book 15 of this series. This is one of those series that you can just pick up every so often to slot them in between different books and it’s super easy to pick up where you left off!
Book #12 of 2022: Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris	I feel like everyone just raves about David Sedaris. And I really wanted to love this series of essays… but I hated them. I found them tedious and not funny at all. I’m sorry to all the Sedaris lovers, but apparently he’s not my cup of tea!
Book #13 of 2022: The Madwoman and the Roomba by Sandra Tsing Loh	Another book of short comedic essays. It has some highs. It had some lows. I don’t think I laughed out loud once. Meh.
Book #14 of 2022: A Kingdom of Ruin (Deliciously Dark Fairy Tales 3) by K.F. Breene	The third in the series and holy moly this one was a thrilling ride. I couldn’t put it down it was soooo good. And now I’m sad that I have to wait until May for the 4th book that will wrap up the series.
Book #15 of 2022: Seoulmates by Jen Frederick	The much-needed sequel to Heart and Seoul (Book #2 above). I loved looking at the Korean culture though an adoptee’s eyes. The love story was good, but the family story was better.
Book #16 of 2022: The Upside of Falling by Alex Light	A fun YA read about a bookworm and a jock. They start “fake dating” as a way to keep the peace with their messy families… but we all know how that goes. Super sweet young love! (Free on Kindle Unlimited)
Book #17 of 2022: Eat Sleep Work Repeat by Bruce Daisley	This book claims to have 30 hacks for bringing joy to your job (not that I don’t love my job). My favorite tips: turn off your notifications, be sure to go to lunch and get a good night’s sleep.
Book #18 of 2022: The Astronaut and the Star by Jen Comfort	The beginning and middle was like ever meh romance out there… but the end was really great! I loved the side character of Katya who is basically Yelena from Black Widow.
Book #19 of 2022: Living Your Best Life by Maxine Morrey	I love this author and read this book in a day. Honestly the story line was super predictable and there were no surprises… BUT it was a fun journey anyway. Exactly the sort of light and fun read I needed today.
Book #20 of 2022: As You Wish by Chelsea Sedoti	In this small town, on your 18th birthday your wish comes true. This YA book was so thoughtful and thought provoking and bittersweet.
Book 21 of 2022: The Spellman Files by Lisa Lutz	A dysfunctional family of PI’s and their adventures. Weird pacing of the book, but I really liked it overall. Apparently this is a series of 6 but only the first is free on Kindle Unlimited… so as much as I’d like to read more, I’m not fully committed to paying full price.
Book #22 of 2022: Shit, Actually by Lindy West	If you like trash talking movie plot holes… this is the perfect book for you. Most hilarious chapters were the ones on Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone, The Santa Clause, and Twilight. And Terminator 2. And Titanic.
Book #23 of 2022: Satisfaction Guaranteed by Karelia Stetz-Waters	Uptight Cade inherits a sex toy store with free spirit Selena. Thrown together becomes friendship becomes love (of course). A sweet romance with a little spice. A very sex-positive woman and woman romance.
Book #24 of 2022: Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson	Lillian is recruited to take care of her high school friend’s stepchildren. Who happen to combust into flames when they get agitated. The story was strange and the plot meandered. I wasn’t sure where it was going to end up but it was a fun journey.
Book #25 of 2022: The Road Trip by Beth O’Leary	Two years after their breakup, Dylan and Addie are thrown together on a road trip to a mutual friend’s wedding. The story flips between now and when they were together and back. Fantastic story with lots of surprises and a happy ending that feels earned.
Book #26 of 2022: Changeling by Molly Harper (Sorcery & Society book 1)	One of my social media friends recommended this series for me since I love Harry Potter and other supernatural books (See comment below on post by Susan. Thanks Susan!!). To say I love it is an understatement! Even better, it’s free to download on Hoopla. A fabulous YA magic novel which has the feeling of Harry Potter, The Paper Magician and Newt Scamander.
Book #27 of 2022: Fledgling by Molly Harper (Sorcery & Society book 2)	The second in the Sorcery and Society series. I am IN LOVE with this series! The second book was as wonderful as the first and so much happened that I can’t wait to start the third! Highly recommend for magic lovers!
Book #28 of 2022: Calling by Molly Harper (Sorcery & Society book 3)	The third and final book in the Sorcery and Society series. A thrilling, exciting, fantastic end to the series. A perfect ending, but still I wish there was more. If you haven’t added the series to your list yet, do it now!! (And all 3 books are free to borrow on Hoopla)
Book #29 of 2022: The Wreckage of My Presence by Casey Wilson	A mix of funny and touching essays from Casey Wilson (actress, comedian, etc). Some essays were better than others, but all in all an entertaining read.
Book #30 of 2022: The Guncle by Steven Rowley	Patrick, an eccentric partially-retired television star, takes in his niece and nephew for the summer. All of them are slowly working through grief — the children have recently lost their mother, their father is in rehab and Patrick lost his boyfriend a few years ago and recently his close friend. The characters were all so colorful and the story was full of heart. I enjoyed this book even more than I hoped. Highly recommend!
Book #31 of 2022: Survival of the Thickest by Michelle Buteau	A book of short stories from a comedian I don’t know. It was okay, but not very funny. I gave up about halfway through because it wasn’t worth wasting my time to finish it.
Book #32 of 2022: The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner	A secret apothecary shop caters to women who need poisons to use against men who have wronged them. Three women’s stories intermingle together — two are set in eighteenth century London and the third is set in modern times. This starts as a slow-burning interconnected mystery by the end it builds to a full thriller with a satisfying ending. I loved this story and highly recommend it! (Currently free on hoopla)
Book #33 of 2022: Meet Me in the Margins by Melissa Ferguson	Savannah works at a publishing house by day, but is writing her own book at night. Through a series of events, her manuscript is found in her secret spot and a mystery person edits it. This RomCom is fabulous with twists and turns and certainly puts a smile on your face. It’s totally feel-good reading and I enjoyed it! (Currently free on hoopla)
Book #34 of 2022: The Guest List by Lucy Foley	On an island off the coast of Ireland, guests gather to celebrate a wedding… but before the end of the weekend, there is a dead body. Holy moly this book was absolutely riveting. You know by the first chapter that someone is dead… but as the book builds it’s like a pressure cooker of ‘who done it’ and why. I could NOT put this book down and the ending was thrilling. (Currently free on hoopla)
Book #35 of 2022: Fix Her Up by Tessa Bailey (Hot and Hammered series 1)	Georgie is a birthday party clown, but she’s sick and tired of her family not taking her seriously as a grown woman. Travis Ford was a Major League Baseball player when an injury ended his career. This steamy RomCom is a ‘fake dating turns to real dating’ situation and hot, hot, hot. Is it perfect? Nope. But it was an entertaining read and I’ll check out the next in the series. (I realized I read second book in this series in 2020, but I’m going to re-read it now that I have the first book in my brain).
Book #36 of 2022: Love Her or Lose Her by Tessa Bailey (Hot and Hammered series 2)	Rosie and Dominic Vega were the perfect couple: high school sweethearts, best friends, madly in love. But now, 10 years later they are at last-ditch therapy to save their marriage. This one was a re-read for me, now that I’ve started this series from the beginning. I really like the story and how the characters grew and wowza was it spicy in parts!
Book #37 of 2022: Tools of Engagement by Tessa Bailey (Hot and Hammered series 3)	HGTV meets romance in this last book in the Hot and Hammered series. There is a house flipping competition and an opposites attract love story and we also revisit the characters from the last 2 books. It works as a fun stand-alone story and also wraps up everything for the series. And some super hot sexy scenes too just for fun.
Book #38 of 2022: The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel	A pretty quick read and very fascinating look at why we think about money and savings the way we do. Worthwhile to read for free on Hoopla. You know, to save you money. {wink}
Book #39 of 2022: A Queen of Ruin (Deliciously Dark Fairytales 4) by K.F Breene	The last book in the series and it was certainly the grand finale! Another fantastic series from K. F. Breene (but VERY raunchy love scenes if that bothers you) and I loved the strong female lead and the hilarious side characters. I’m kind of sad it’s over!
Book 40 of 2022: This Time for Me: A Memoir by Alexandra Billings	This amazing memoir tells the story of Scott who becomes Alexandra. She found her true love in high school, was a drag queen and prostitute, a transgender actress on an award winning show and a Broadway star. She’s been living with AIDS since 1995 and has watched many of her friends die from it over the years. This memoir was eye opening and hard to read at times, but I cheered for Alex the whole way through.
Book 41 of 2022: The Secret, Book & Scone Society by Ellery Adams (Secret Society Book 1)	Four women of Miracle Springs have their secrets, but they decide to tentatively trust each other when there is a murder in their quiet town. I loved the twisting tale of this book and absolutely want a comfort scone of my own. A fun who-done-it with strong friendship ties too. Free on Hoopla!
Book 42 of 2022: The Whispered Word by Ellery Adams (Secret Society Book 2)	The second in the series and another fun who-done-it mystery. I love the growing friendships of the four main characters and how they are always supporting each other. A perfect comfort read. Even with the murder.
Book 43 of 2022: It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey (Book 1 of series)	The author confesses that the character of Piper is based on Alexis Rose from Schitt’s Creek and she wanted to give her a happily ever after. I loved it. I loved the love story. I loved the growth of the party girl. I loved the sisterly bond. A perfect light read (and currently free on Hoopla)
Book 44 of 2022: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho	This one popped up free on Hoopla so I decided to give it a try. It is a beautiful fable about following your dream and persevering by listening to your heart. The importance of recognizing opportunities and following them. And not giving up when something shiny and distracting comes your way. I very much enjoyed this and feel like a re-read every few years would lead to additional insights about the book and myself.
Book 45 of 2022: The Book of Candlelight by Ellery Adams (Secret Society Book 3)	Another cozy mystery with my new favorite group of ladies. If you haven’t already started this series yet, give it a try because it is becoming a total comfort read for me. (Series free on Hoopla and also included for free with Kindle Unlimited)
Book 46 of 2022: Ink and Shadows by Ellery Adams (Secret Society Book 4)	Book 4 of 5 in the series and I’ll be sad to see it end. I’ve fallen in love with the people of Miracle Springs but I am concerned about the number of murders in their small town.
Book #47 of 2022: The Vanishing Type by Ellery Adams (Secret Society Book 5)	The last book in this beautiful series and it was just as wonderful as the previous four. Another fun who-done-it and a great wrap up of the ongoing story lines!
Book #48 of 2022: Hook, Line and Sinker by Tessa Bailey (Book 2 of series)	The sequel to ‘It Happened One Summer’ (Book #43 of 2022) and this time we get to read the sister’s story. This one centers around a former player who falls for his best friend. I loved the growth of the relationship and I actually teared up at the ending. Great closure for both sisters! And hot, hot, hot!
Book #49 of 2022: Daughter of the Pirate King by Tricia Levenseller	A 17-year old pirate captain intentionally allows herself to get captured by enemy pirates in this suspenseful read. There was scheming and fighting and a little romance too. When I read the last page I actually yelled out “WHAT?!” and thankfully immediately realized the second and final book is already out and ready for me to read it!
Book #50 of 2022: Daughter of the Siren Queen by Tricia Levenseller	The finale to the first book (Daughter of the Pirate King) and HOLY WOW I couldn’t put it down for the lats 45 minutes. This entire book (actually both books) was phenomenal. Highly Recommend! {I just saw that a third book in the series will be out in November and it is absolutely on my TBR list!}
Book 51 of 2022: The XY by Virginia Bergin	In River’s world, XYs are a relic of the past, along with things like war and violence. Then one day, she comes across a boy laying hurt in the road. I really thought the premise had promise but OHMYGOD was this book terrible. Terrible Writing. Terrible Pacing. I skipped through chapters at the end it was so bad. Do not recommend.
Book 52 of 2022: Twice Shy by Sarah Hogle	Maybell Parrish inherits a dilapidated old mansion, shared equally with the groundskeeper. A shy and awkward love story. The two main characters grow on your slowly and by the end I was cheering for their happy ending!
Book #53 of 2022: Daughter of Deep Silence by Carrie Ryan	In the wake of the devastating destruction of luxury yacht Persephone, just three souls remain to tell its story — and two of them are lying. In this revenge thriller, one of the survivors is looking for the truth and has planned meticulously how to find it. This book had Gone Girl and Revenge vibes and the end was very satisfying.
Book #54 of 2022: Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers (Book 1 of His Fair Assassin trilogy)	Set in 1485, seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes an arranged marriage into the convent of St. Mortain. That is where she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts and she will be trained as an assassin. I’m not a huge fan of period pieces, so it took me awhile to warm up to this one. However, bu the end this world has thoroughly sucked me in and I’ll be moving on to the second in the “His Fair Assassin” Trilogy.
Book #55 of 2022: The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning by Margareta Magnusson	In Sweden there is a kind of decluttering called döstädning, dö meaning “death” and städning meaning “cleaning.” This process of clearing out unnecessary belongings can be undertaken at any age or life stage but should be done sooner than later, before others have to do it for you. This book was a quick read and so inspiring. If you need a little nudge to start cleaning and organizing your home — it’s the perfect kick in the pants. (I borrowed it free from the Overdrive library, so check there first!)
Book #56 of 2022: Dark Triumph by Robin LaFevers (Book 2 of His Fair Assassin trilogy)	The second in the trilogy and this one was the story of Sybella. This was a really difficult story to read in some places but a very satisfying story as well. Good for lovers of intrigue and historical drama.
Book #57 of 2022: Mortal Heart by Robin LaFevers (Book 3 of His Fair Assassin trilogy)	The conclusion of the His Fair Assassin trilogy centers on Annith, who has escaped from the convent to seek her own destiny. A very satisfying end to the series, as it ties up many of the ongoing story lines. Still not a big historical fiction fan, but I did enjoy these books!
Book #58 of 2022: You Can’t Be Serious by Kal Penn	This memoir is a series of funny, consequential, awkward, and ridiculous stories from Kal Penn. Everything from growing up, confronting racism in Hollywood, meeting his future husband, and working in the Obama administration. Loved the book!
Book #59 of 2022: The Storyteller by Dave Grohl	I’ve had a bit of a crush on Dave Grohl for years, so when this one came up on Overdrive at the library I dove right in! It’s not a full autobiography, but true to the title, a series of stories of growing up, his first bands, his time with Nirvana, the Foo Fighters, and his various super band projects. It was a compelling read and he has such a smart and honest voice.
Book #60 of 2022: Anxious People by Fredrik Backman	A failed bank robbery turns into a hostage situation at a real estate open house. I thought the idea has promise, but just could not get past the rambling writing style and the jumpy chapters. I couldn’t get into this, so I deleted it off my kindle and moved on.
Book #61 of 2022: Under the Whispering Door by T.J. Klune	When a reaper comes to collect Wallace from his own funeral, Wallace begins to suspect he might be dead. But even in death, he’s not ready to abandon the life he barely lived. I loved this book so much. I loved the characters and the way Wallace grew from a heartless asshole to someone you love.
Book #62 of 2022: The Sinful Lives of Trophy Wives by Kristin Miller	A murder mystery with backstabbing as the cherry on top. All in all, I did not love this one. There were way too many plot holes. Rather than being open ended to leave you thinking, it just felt like lazy writing.
Book #63 of 2022: A Thousand Miles by Bridget Morrissey	Dee and Ben were friends in high school before it all blew up. After a decade of silence, they reunite for a road trip they once promised to take. You guys. This romantic love story is everything I want in a novel. Multifaceted characters, an actual slow burn, really knowing and loving each other. And a big 80’s movie moment at the end. Add this to your TBR list immediately for when you need a good comfort read!
Book#64 of 2022: You Deserve Each Other by Sarah Hogle	Naomi and Nicholas are engaged to be married in a matter of months… but they basically hate each other. And I HATED this book because they were so mean and toxic and should have just broken up already. But then, things started turning around. Instead of enemies to lovers, it was lovers to enemies to lovers. Altogether an unexpected job of reminding you not to take your partner for granted.
Book #65 of 2022: You’re on an Airplane by Parker Posey	A memoir as if you happened to sit next to Parker Posey on an airplane. It is rambling and jumps from story to story and super boring and I hated it.
Book #66 of 2022: So You Had to Build a Time Machine by Jason Offutt	One day an annoying theoretical physicist named Dave pops into the seat next to Skid at her least favorite Kansas City bar and disappears into thin air when she punches him. This starts off a crazy road-trip to save the world while stomping through a bunch of really weird metaverses. It was weird and unexpected and pretty darn fun. Except when one version of a person watched another version of himself slowly get eaten by a 6-foot praying mantis in a lab coat. That was weird and gross.
Book #67 of 2022: 24 Hours in Paris by Romi Moondi	Mira and Jake barely know each other from work, but when they are ‘stuck’ in Paris for an extra 24 hours after a business trip they decide to explore it together. Such a wonderful book that makes me want to book a trip to Paris and eat all the carbs.
Book#68 of 2022: Dream On by Angie Hockman	When law grad Cass Walker wakes up after surviving a car accident, she is flooded with memories of a man named Devin. The only problem? Devin doesn’t exist. So when she happens upon the real Devin a year later in a Cleveland flower shop, she’s completely shocked. This was a fun read that had a really cool premise. There was one “twist” you could totally see from a mile away, but all in all a sweet romance.
Book 69 of 2022: Beach Read by Emily Henry	A romance writer who no longer believes in love and a literary writer stuck in a rut engage in a summer-long challenge that may just upend everything they believe about happily ever afters. A perfect on-the-plane read and totally worth airport pricing for this absolute gem of a book. Highly recommend!
Book #70 of 2022: Shipped by Angie Hockman	A workaholic marketing manager is forced to go on a cruise with her arch-nemesis when they’re up for the same promotion. You guys, this book was SO GOOD! Driven, hard-working female lead, swoon worthy love interest, supportive sister and scummy boss who will totally get his comeuppance. I loved it even more than the author’s other book, “Dream On” (Book #68 of 2022). Highly recommend!
Book #71 of 2022: All Fired Up by Dylan Newton	A second chance, opposites attract, small-town romantic comedy. To be honest, the man was a little too perfect and the lady was kind of wishy-washy and selfish… but all in all a nice, fun read. I don’t regret it, but didn’t love it.
Book #72 of 2022: I Want to Be Where the Normal People Are by Rachel Bloom	I’ve loved Rachel Bloom since Crazy Ex Girlfriend and this book of her essays was a super fun read. I kind of wish it was longer though and went more into the behind-the-scenes of her show. However, if you’re a fan of the show, I recommend reading this.
Book #73 of 2022: Out of the Blue by Alison Bliss	Plus sized girl starts working out at a gym and falls in love with her personal trainer. This book is awful. I couldn’t even get halfway through it because the writer was so bad. It’s written like fan fiction by a 14-year-old. So. So. Bad.
Book #74 of 2022: Anatomy: A Love Story by Dana Schwartz	Set in the 1800’s, Hazel Sinnett is a lady who wants to be a surgeon more than she wants to marry. Jack Currer is a resurrection man who’s just trying to survive in a city where it’s too easy to die. After Hazel gets kicked out of the Anatomist’s Society for being the wrong gender, she finds she needs a resurrection man to provide her with bodies so she can continue learning. This is technically YA but oh my gosh it was riveting! I loved the book and was so happy to see that a sequel will be coming out in February!
Book #75 of 2022: The Wedding Season by Katy Birchall	The day before Freya’s wedding to Matthew, he dumps her. Humiliated and heartbroken, the last thing she wants is to attend a summer of other peoples’ nuptials after hers imploded. When her best friends devise a series of outrageous challenges for Freya to complete at each event during Wedding Season, she figures why not since it will help distract her from Matthew and what might have been. This book was so, so, so fantastic. The friendships, the ridiculous situations she gets herself into… it’s just so good. Highly recommend to lovers of friendship, silliness and romance!
Book #76 of 2022: Go Hex Yourself by Jessica Clare	When Reggie Johnson answers a job ad in the paper, she’s astonished to find that she’s not applying to work at her favorite card game, Spellcraft: The Magicking. Instead, she’s applying to be an actual familiar for an actual witch. As in, real magic. This was a fun and very spicy read with a sunshiny female lead and a grumpy love interest. I’m shocked it’s not a series given the world-building and opportunity for more stories!
Book #77 of 2022: In a Perfect World by Trish Doller	Caroline is excited to be spending her summer vacation working at the local amusement park before starting her senior year of high school. But when her mother is hired to open an eye clinic in Cairo, Egypt, Caroline’s plans are upended. She is now expected to spend her summer and her senior year in a foreign country, away from her friends, her home, and everything she’s ever known. This book was like jumping into a pool that is Egypt. The language, the people, the history — I loved how immersive it was. A beautiful YA read about falling in love and growing up.
Book #78 of 2022: The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston	No synopsis. No review. Just order it, put it in a library request, or download it today. Now. It’s that good. Tell me when you’re done how much you love it. Five stars!
Book #79 of 2022: ADHD Raising an Explosive Child by Monica Payne	I don’t know if Jack has ADHD – he exhibits some mild signs and I wanted to do some pre-reading before an evaluation appointment with his physician. With that being said, this book showed up on my Amazon search, is free for Kindle Unlimited and is highly starred. The beginning was interesting and even helpful. but there are SO MANY typos. Also, there is a lot of information that I think would be better phrased as “with any child” rather than “with any ADHD child” because it was so general and innocuous. So, I didn’t love this book but I did write down a few tips to try at home. I’d say it’s worth the price of free… but don’t take every word as the gospel.
Book #80 of 2022: People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry	Poppy and Alex have been friends for over a decade and even though they’re opposites, they are the perfect duo for vacations. However, something happened 2 years ago that ruined everything and they haven’t spoken since. Poppy decides to try again and invites Alex to join her on one more vacation, hoping to make everything better again. I LOVED Beach Read by this author (review #69), so I had high hopes for this book. And maybe my hopes were too high? It was a fine romantic comedy and I was happy when it all ended happily ever after, but it didn’t have that extra bit of ZING that makes you love a book. It was good, just not great.
Book #81 of 2022: The Setup by Lizzy Dent	Mara Williams is driven by astrology, so when a series of events lead to hear meeting someone she believes her fortune teller is ‘the one’ she believes it. And she believes she needs to ‘fix herself’ before they will meet again. I loved the English setting, Mara’s slow journey to finding friends and purpose, and the love story as well. However, the ending fell kind of flat for me.
Book #82 of 2022: Happily Ever Island by Crystal Cestari	This book is a YA rom-com where 2 best friends win a trip to Happily Ever Island, an immersive vacation destination, where guests can become their favorite Disney character for a week. This book is perfect for Disney fans and I’d totally sign up to visit Happily Ever Island in a heartbeat. There are 2 sweet love stories, college kids that aren’t ready for their future drama, and LOTS of Disney. A really fun read!
Book #83 of 2022: The Woman Who Took a Chance by Fiona Gibson	Jen is 50 years old, single and has just been laid off from her flight attendant job that she’s had for 29 years. The story follows along as she decides to try online dating, taking care of her aging mom, and figuring out what to do for a new job. It’s a Rom-Com but just kind of ‘eh’ — it’s amusing but not super funny, it’s sweet but not super romantic. A quick and easy read. And I keep feeling like I already read this book a few years ago, but it was printed in 2022… so I guess not?
Book #84 of 2022: The True Love Bookshop by Annie Rains	This story centers around a young widow who 3 years after her husbands death is finding out that everything was not as she thought it was. She hires someone from her past who is a PI to figure things out so she can finally move on. This book combines solving the mystery with her finally moving on to a new love (and all the bumps that come with it). It was sweet, but somewhat predictable.
Book #85 of 2022: A Shoe Story by Jane L. Rosen	A young woman has one month and a closet full of shoes to discover the future she thought she’d lost. The shoes theme was kind of dumb, but the story of Esme finding her way back to life after a tragedy was wonderful. The main romance was good, but the romance of her older grandfather type was absolutely beautiful!
Book #86 of 2022: June, Reimagined by Rebekah Crane	June Merriweather is on the run — from her own life. Her brother is dead, her parents are liars, and her collage major is a joke. She is desperate for reinvention and a one-way ticket to the Scottish Highlands is a good place to start. I absolutely loved this book so much! The crazy group of new friends she finds, the romance, finding a new purpose in life. It was so wonderful and I want to go back to Scotland now!
Book #87 of 2022: Finlay Donovan is Killing It by Elle Cosimano (Book 1 of series)	When Finlay Donovan is overheard discussing the plot of her new suspense novel with her agent over lunch, she’s mistaken for a contract killer, and inadvertently accepts and offer to dispose of a problem husband in order to make ends meet. I hated the beginning and almost gave up on this one, but once I got through the absolute mess that the main character started out as, it got a lot better. This was a really fun who-done-it that keeps you guessing until the very end. And it ends on a bit of a cliffhanger to lead into the next book, which makes me want to hit ‘buy it now’ immediately! (PS this book is currently free on Kindle Unlimited. Both the first and second book is free on Overdrive, a free online library resource).
Book #88 of 2022: Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead by Elle Cosimano (Book 2 of series)	The second in the series and in this one, someone has taken out a hit on Finley’s ex-husband. This book is even better than the last and the mystery twisted and turned in ways that I certainly did not expect. Loved it and can’t wait for the third in the series to come out in January! (This one was a free borrow on Overdrive)
Book #89 of 2022: Ties That Bind (A Shelby Nicols Adventure) by Colleen Helme	This is book 16 in the series of a mind reader who works for both the police department and the mob. It’s been a fun series and this book keeps it going. An exciting mystery and some kick butt fights. What more can you ask for? (Whole series free on Kindle Unlimited)
Book #90 of 2022: Meet Me in Paradise by Libby Hubscher	This book caught me by surprise. I thought it was going to be a light and fun romance. Instead it had me in total tears. Not only was there the expected romance, it was about the love between sisters. And stepping outside your comfort zone. Highly recommend, just have tissues ready.
Book #91 of 2022: The Lemon Sisters by Jill Shalvis	This book centers on two sisters — Mindy is a burnt out mom of 3 who just wants her husband to see her. Brook is afraid of pretty much everything after a traumatic helicopter crash, especially the boy she grew up loving and then left. I loved this book and read the whole thing in a day. Be warned though, it gives you a major craving for sweet lemon bread.
Book #92 of 2022: Me and My Feelings by Vanessa Green Allen	I picked this one up to read with Jack because sometimes he has BIG feelings and needs help navigating them. This book is good and simplifies things for a kid to understand. Now that I did my pre-reading homework, we will work through it together.
Book #93 of 2022: Runaway Groomsman by Megan Quinn	A Hollywood screenwriter goes a little crazy and causes a (hilarious) scene at the wedding of his ex-girlfriend and ex-best friend. he runs off to a little town called Canoodle to hide from the fallout and oh my gosh, the people in this town. It’s like Gilmore Girls and Northern Exposure all in one. The love story is actually realistic, the plot line with the grandfather was so touching, and the crazy knife obsessed best friend will totally slash your tires if you deserve it. A super fun read!
Book #94 of 2022: A Not So Meet Cute by Meghan Quinn	I loved Megan Quinn’s last book (see above, book #93), so I immediately downloaded this one. And wow. It’s like it’s not written by the same author AT ALL. What I loved about Runaway Groomsman was the slow burn romance, family aspects, etc. This one… did not have that. A play on Pretty Woman where the 2 main characters pretend to be engaged. But basically just very, very spicy. Like, too much spice? And the romance was not realistic at all and I just wasn’t feeling the relationship. Such a letdown after her other fantastic book.
Book #95 of 2022: The Goddess Effect by Sheila Yasmin Marikar	Anita moves from NYC to LA to start over and discovers an elite workout class called the Goddess Effect. At first, she is sure she has found her people. But before long she realizes that the Goddess Effect isn’t quite what it seems. I liked the initial premise of this book, but it was so, so slow getting there. Really a bunch of boring followed by like 2 chapters of actual action. Meh.
Book #96 of 2022: Jaded and Tyed by Penelope Ward	Less of a book and more of a novelette. Jade is a Broadway actress and Tyler is her brother-in-law. There is an instant attraction, but of course there are obstacles. This one was another ‘meh’ book for me and the spicy scene seemed like it was 100% written by a dude who may not have ever been with an actual human woman.
Book #97 of 2022: Fate of Perfection by K.F. Breene	In this futuristic sci-fi book, people are genetically engineered to be the best workers. And they breed the strongest, to make even better workers. Millicent is granted the uncommon privilege of breeding… but then will stop at nothing to have sole possession of her child. Very unlike K.F. Breene’s other books. Super futuristic and techy, with lots of chase/fight sequences. The book ends of a cliffhanger that goes into the second (and final) book in the series.
Book #98 of 2022: Fate of Devotion by K.F. Breene	The second and final book in the series, and it really was just the other half of the story. This totally could have been one book. After escaping in book 1, they have to return to earth to fight again in book 2. Basically a whole book full of sci-fi action. A good series — I started it yesterday and finished today — but nowhere as good as the author’s later books.
Book #99 of 2022: Book Lovers by Emily Henry	A rom-com that takes those Hallmark movie plots of a big city girl going to the country (to take over a business or kick a puppy or whatever) and then falls in love with a small town boy and leaves her old life behind. But exactly NOT THAT old trope. I loved this book so much that I even forced myself to hold off on reading the end until I could really enjoy it and not speed through. This is the 3rd Emily Henry book I’ve read and they’ve all been so fantastic — five stars!
Book #100 of 2022: Tanquaray by Brandon Stanton	I was glued to the story of Stephanie (aka Tanqueray) when it was shared on the Humans of New York account in 2019. So, I was thrilled to come across the book when I was at the library so I could revisit her stories. This memoir is such a wild ride!
Book #101 of 2022: Small Town Big Magic by Hazel Beck	Headstrong, successful bookstore owner and the youngest chamber of commerce president in St. Cyprian history, Emerson Wild is a lot of things. But what she doesn’t know, is she is also a witch. This super fun intro into a new series was a perfect fantasy ride set in modern times. I loved it and my only disappointment is that the next book won’t be out until 2023.
Book #102 of 2022: The No-Show by Beth O’Leary	The three women in the book are strangers who have only one thing in common — they’ve all been stood up on Valentine’s Day by the same man. Yes, there’s a twist. But the plot is like a knotted ball of yarn you slowly unravel until the satisfying ending. A little deeper than I was hoping for today, but a good use of my time while I’m shivering on the couch bundled up in 7 blankets.
Book #103 of 2022: Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry	Matthew Perry’s memoir is so sad. Just his story with addiction and relapsing over and over again. Even at the end of the book, he hasn’t been sober fro very long and it feels like he’s just one more relapse away from death.
Book #104 0f 2022: The Little Bookshop on the Seine by Rebecca Raisin	When bookshop owner Sarah Smith is offered the opportunity for a job exchange with her Parisian friend Sophie, Saying yes is a no-brainer — after all, what kind of romantic would turn down six months in Paris? You guys. I HATED this book. Sarah was such a pushover and her ‘adventure’ was so absolutely boring. I also wanted to punch her stupid boyfriend. How can you make a story about leaving a small town and going to Paris boring??
Book #105 of 2022: Beyond the Wand by Tom Felton	As a Harry Potter book and movie fan, I added this one to my library holds as soon as it came out. All in all, a really great memoir with lots of fun behind the scenes moments. Loved his voice and this book is a ‘must read’ for any boy wizard fans.
Book #106 of 2022: Five Winters by Kitty Johnson	Ever since Beth Bailey was a girl, she’s been in love with her best friend’s older brother, Mark. But now Beth is 35 years old, and on the day of Mark’s wedding to another woman, she finally accepts the wake-up call she needs to move on. The book starts at Mark’s wedding and then jumps from winter to winter to cover 5 winters in Beth’s life. It was a pretty quick read and kind of Christmassy too. And I do love a wonderful holiday happily ever after.
Book #107: Magical Midlife Challenge (Leveling Up 6) by K. F. Breene	Book 6 in the Magical Midlife Leveling Up series and it was super fun. A great mix of ridiculousness — shapeshifters, gargoyles, a senile vampire, and old lady that turns into a killer gremlin… what’s not to love?!
Book #108 of 2022: Lovelight Farms by B.K. Borison	A handsome, freckled data analysts and his best friend, a messy, optimistic Christmas tree farm owner. This sweet and steamy romance is a holiday happily ever after. You guys. Imagine the best Hallmark romance ever and then add actual sensual, steamy scenes and humor. And the best friends ever. I LOVED this book. I wanted to move into this book. If you are looking for a romance perfect for Christmas time, read this one ASAP.
Book #109 of 2022: In the Weeds (Lovelight Farms 2) by B.K. Borison	Book 2 in the Lovelight Farms series and it was so wonderful. The series is interconnected stories and in the first book you have to wonder about the grumpy farmer, Beckett, and whether he and Evie will find their way back together. Loved this so much!
Book #110 of 2022: Radical Love by Zachary Levi	Facing scars of childhood trauma and the voices in his head that told him he would never be enough, Zachary Levi shares his mental health journey. When Zachary Levi was on Chuck, I had a major crush on him. So when I saw this book I figured I’d give it a read. Unlike Matthew Perry’s book, this one actually has hope in it. Zac learns from his mistakes. It’s clear he’s had a ton of therapy and is working hard on his mental health. I just want to give him a big hug.
Book #111 of 2022: My Friend Anna by Rachel DeLoache Williams	Rachel’s new friend Anna Delvey, a self-proclaimed German Heiress, was worldly, ambitious and generous. But when Anna’s credit cards mysteriously stopped working, a dream vacation quickly took a turn ending with Rachel over $62,000 in debt. I had heard about the Anna Delvey con artist over the years (and no, I haven’t watched the tv show), but the full story was fascinating. A quote I loved by Rachel talking about Anna, “Was she sorry? Yes, but sorry like a child who had broken her favorite toy. She used me up and was sorry when I was gone — not sorry for my anguish but sorry for her loss.”
Book #112 of 2022: Mixed Signals (Lovelight Farms 3) by B.K. Borison	The third book in the Lovelight series and this time we follow Layla’s story — the baker with terrible taste in men. Earlier in the series, there were whispers that the town deputy, Caleb, had a crush on her. This story explores that further… and oh my gosh, it was so sweet and steamy and I loved every minute of it. A perfect series from a local Baltimore author and it’s even free on Kindle Unlimited!

Many of my books are borrowed using Kindle Unlimited (you can read my full review from 2015 here). If you don’t have Kindle Unlimited yet, it’s like an all-you-can-read for books and I’ve been using it for the last few years: Kindle Unlimited Membership Plans.

I’ve also used the free OverDrive Library, through my local library website. If you have a library card, be sure to check your library’s website to see if they work with an online partner. I mean, FREE BOOKS!

April 2022 update: I recently started using Hoopla, also through my local library and it is an app that has even more free books!

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