Every six months, I like to update you on my reading for the year so far. In 2021, I set my goal to 200 books. I read a ton of children’s books and read more than usual this year for a work project, so for me, this was doable. As of June 30, I have read 56 books. I’m hoping to read 156 books so… LET’S GOOOOO.

the struggle is real

Here’s a recap of the standout books I read from January 1 through June 30.

My First Read

Dad BakesDad Bakes by Katie Yamasaki
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Always love this author/illustrator.

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My Favorite Romance Read (…that isn’t my favorite read)

A Caribbean Heiress in Paris (Las Léonas, #1)A Caribbean Heiress in Paris by Adriana Herrera
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was lovely! The chemistry between Luz Alana and Evan was on point from their first meeting, and I loved her friends – can’t wait to read their books. I love the marriage of convenience trope, I love strong heroines, and I am *so* here for “actually diverse” historical romance after the popularity of Bridgerton.

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My Favorite Children’s Read

Rah, Rah, Radishes!: A Vegetable ChantRah, Rah, Radishes!: A Vegetable Chant by April Pulley Sayre
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I LOVE nonfiction books for kids that include photographs rather than illustrations. Illustrations are fabulous too, but the bright colors in the photos of these vegetables with the fun chant really makes this title memorable, and made me hungry.

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My Favorite Audiobook

The Witches: Salem, 1692The Witches: Salem, 1692 by Stacy Schiff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Listened to audiobook at 1.2x. The final arc really interested me. I’ve never heard much about the aftermath and was very into learning more.

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My Most Recent Read

Signs: The Secret Language of the UniverseSigns: The Secret Language of the Universe by Laura Lynne Jackson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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My Absolute Favorite Read

A Lady for a DukeA Lady for a Duke by Alexis Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The best romance novel I have read in years.

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