The Intentional Reader
Reading is one of the ways I slow down and think more clearly — a quiet counterbalance to modern life.
Here you’ll find considered book reviews, curated reading lists, and thoughtful book recommendations that stay with me long after the final page. From literary fiction to historical novels and emotionally layered contemporary works, this is where I share what I’m reading — and why it matters.
Each recommendation is selected with the same intention that shapes my home, style, and travel: discernment over trends, depth over noise, and stories chosen for their lasting impact.
Latest Reviews
Literary fiction, historical fiction, emotionally layered contemporary stories, and thoughtful seasonal reads.
A curated collection of recent book reviews spanning literary fiction, historical narratives, and contemporary novels.
Each review reflects what lingered beyond the final page — the themes, the craft, and the questions that stayed with me. These are thoughtful, in-depth book reviews designed to help you discover stories worth your time.
Dolly All the Time
A completely addictive contemporary romance that I devoured in a single day. Annabel Monaghan takes a familiar rich-guy-meets-small-town-girl premise and transforms it into a heartfelt, emotionally rich story filled with unforgettable characters, genuine chemistry, and a romance you'll root for from beginning to end.
The Reading List
This reading list serves as an archive of the books I’ve thoughtfully reviewed and recommended over time. While the genres may vary, what connects them is depth — layered characters, a strong sense of place, emotional nuance, and themes that resonate well beyond the story itself.
Each selection reflects the same editorial lens that guides this space: substance over hype, intention over impulse, and book recommendations chosen for their enduring value.
Historical Fiction
A curated collection of atmospheric, emotionally layered stories centered on memory, resilience, identity, and place.
Mystery & Thriller
Atmospheric mysteries, psychological suspense, emotionally layered thrillers, and character-driven stories filled with tension, secrets, and hidden motivations.
Contemporary Fiction
Thoughtful contemporary stories centered on family, friendship, ambition, identity, reinvention, and the quiet turning points that shape a life.
Additional titles are added throughout the year as I continue my reading practice. In 2026, I’ve committed to reading 75 books — not as a race, but as a deliberate return to stories that shape perspective and slow the pace of modern life.
My full reading log and progress toward reading 75 books in 2026 can be followed on Goodreads.
Additional titles are added throughout the year as I continue documenting my 2026 reading life. To explore the evolving archive of thoughtful reviews, seasonal favorites, and newly added books, browse the complete 2026 reading list here.
For a complete, organized archive of every book I read and reviewed in 2025, explore the full reading list here.
Currently Reading
This is my current reading list — the books I’m actively reading and preparing to review. Each title is chosen with intention and added to my evolving monthly reading list as part of my 2026 goal to read 75 books.
Full book reviews and thoughtful recommendations are published throughout the month as I complete each one.
The Housewife
A twisty psychological thriller about a newlywed who begins to suspect her perfect husband is hiding deadly secrets.
Villa Coco
A charming literary novel set in the Tuscan countryside, where art, secrets, romance, and self-discovery collide.
Reasons to Be Loved by You
A charming summer romance filled with witty banter, family drama, second chances, and unexpected love.
Someone Else's Husband
A twist-filled psychological suspense novel about secrets, obsession, betrayal, and a deadly love triangle.
The Scottish Island Inn
A heartwarming Scottish island romance about family secrets, second chances, sisterhood, and finding your way home.
Shop My Book Recommendations
Every book I’ve reviewed and recommended is gathered here in one curated reading list — a complete archive of my book reviews and trusted book recommendations.
This collection includes the titles I’ve read, discussed, and thoughtfully reviewed across fiction, historical novels, and contemporary literature. If you’re looking for a refined, searchable reading list in one place, you can browse the full collection below.
Let’s Stay Connected
Follow along for ongoing book reviews, curated reading lists, and thoughtful reflections on the stories shaping my year. I also share California coastal lifestyle inspiration, home updates, travel moments, and carefully selected favorites across each platform.
You can connect with me on Instagram, Pinterest, and ShopMy for additional book recommendations and curated collections.