Welcome to my new blog series for 2024! Many of my friends know I’m a huge book lover and much of my spare time is spent reading or listening to audiobooks. I thought January was a good time to start sharing a round-up of my monthly reads!

I recently discovered a new star rating system – CAWPILE – that I’ve found really helpful. I’ve always struggled rating books but this makes it so much easier. It’s been interesting to see how they differ from what I would have given them before this, too!

Until a few years ago I was very much against audiobooks. I’d always believed that they’re not a “real” book as there is nothing like holding a book and turning the pages. I still agree with the latter, but I also now believe that audiobooks are a complete life changer!

I can get through so many more books and I don’t have to prioritise reading over housework. They actually make me want to do housework so I can listen to more of my book! Audiobooks make up over half of my reading now, possibly closer to three-quarters. I find myself getting more immersed too as they bring a book to life.

Anyway, I digress. This is turning into a “Why I love audiobooks so much” style post – maybe that’s a future one! So let’s have a look at which books I read in January.

The Pumpkin Spice Cafe by Laurie Gilmore 4.5*

This book had been on my radar for a few months. However, I had a couple of reading challenges to complete and club books to catch up with, so I was a little late to the party! It was worth the wait though.

I hadn’t read a small-town romance for a while and I really enjoyed it. The characters were likable and it probably is worth reading this one in the autumn as it has all those cosy vibes. I can’t wait for the second in the series!

Fool Me Once by Harlan Coben 4.5*

I’ve never read a Harlan Coben book before but everybody has been raving about this series on Netflix. I saw the trailer and decided I wanted to watch it, but I had to read the book first of course!

This was a real page-turner with plenty of fast-paced action. Although I figured out the main twist near the beginning, there was still lots to keep me guessing. I didn’t want to stop listening!

The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey 4*

This one was chosen as my online book club’s January discussion. I’d never heard of the book or the author previously, however, it seemed popular and sounded like something I’d enjoy.

It had a lot of magical realism elements that made it feel immersive. The author’s descriptive writing was beautiful and although I don’t think I’d cope with the cold, it made me want to visit the Canadian wilderness in winter!

Kindred by Octavia Butler 4.5*

I’m doing the 12 books recommended by 12 friends reading challenge this year – this was my first book of the challenge. As with The Snow Child, this also had elements of magical realism, plus time travel.

I want to say I enjoyed it but I feel like that’s the wrong word. Being a book focused on slavery in the 1800’s it was harrowing at points, but it was beautifully written. The plot was intricately woven between the 1970’s and the 1800’s with an array of complex characters.

It’s one of those books that is a must-read no matter what your genre preference is.

Vesper Flights by Helen McDonald 4*

This was the book chosen for my in-person book club January discussion. Also, it was my first non-fiction read of the year. I have to say my first impression is that I wasn’t sure I was going to like it.

However, you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover (or description!) I thoroughly enjoyed listening to it, particularly as it was narrated by the author so it felt more personal. It was a beautiful collection of essays relating to nature and the author’s experiences, some with which I identified.

Saying that I’m not sure I would have completed it if I had physically read it. Some books are just better in audio.

Yellowface by Rebecca F Kuang 4*

I’d been waiting to get to the front of the Libby library queue for this book for months so I was hoping it would be worth the wait!

It was very intriguing and relevant to some major themes in today’s society – particularly cultural appropriation, cancel culture and social media.

I can’t say I took a liking to any of the characters, however, they were interesting and had me always wanting to find out more. Especially how June and Athena’s friendship formed and then severed at the drop of a hat.

My favourite book

Although all of the books I read in January have a star rating of 4 or 4.5, I think The Pumpkin Spice Cafe was my favourite. Have you read any of these? What was your favourite book of January?