Monthly wrap up: May

Some months are good. Some are bad. Some are a strange mixture, starting with an anxiety attack and finishing with the satisfaction of making it to the gym three times a week for an entire month – a first this year.

I’ve consciously been putting me first, for once. I’ve started a habit tracker so I look after myself better. I’ve realised that an extra item crossed off the list is not worth missing sleep on and have focused on getting more rest. But, more importantly, I’m coming to realise that sometimes you just have to catch up and breathe, rather than setting unattainable targets.

Sounds logical, right? For me, it’s a huge deal, a learning curve and a working process. Being conscious of it means I’m hoping to get into better routines and habits, and I’m excited to see what June will bring.

This whole “being-in-control” definitely comes with benefits. I’ve had a good reading month, both with reviews, ARCs and actually (shock horror!) letting myself read a few things for fun.

Here’s what my May reading pile looks like:

Red Scrolls of Magic by Cassandra Clare and Wesley Chu

I was so excited for this book (Alec and Magnus, duh!) but dubious after hating Queen of Air and Darkness. I’ve got a review coming, so all I’ll say is that it doesn’t disappoint.

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

I’ve wanted to re-read The Mortal Instruments for a while and Red Scrolls just heightened that. I figured why not, and finally restarted the series.

Ravencry by Ed McDonald

Another I’ve really been looking forward to, and another with a review so I won’t spoil it. I thoroughly enjoyed it; just as gritty, humorous and tense as the first one.

If Trees Could Talk by Holly Worton

Anyone who checked out my review will know this pushed me out of my comfort zone, which I kinda of enjoyed. Still not sure I’m sold as a believer, but it was refreshing to read something different and made me think I should stretch myself more often.

City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

The series continues. I was pleasantly surprised though; I forgot the humour and how thorough the characterisations are in this series. I enjoyed this more than I was expecting!

Traitor’s Codex by Jeri Westeron

I only realised after starting this it was part of a much bigger series. I didn’t get lost though. I adored this book – full review coming but I will certainly be checking out the rest of the series. Loved it!

Shiang by C.F Iggulden

This was a month of returning to old series, clearly. I thoroughly enjoyed Darien and after a slow start, thought the second book was as enjoyable. I really like the way magic is used in this series.

City of Glass by Cassandra Clare

What I love is that it’s been so long since I read these, I can’t remember what happens and it feels like reading them for the first time again. Still thoroughly enjoying the series.

The Last Time I Saw You by Liv Constantine

I was excited to read her second novel, and it’s as full of twists, turns and suspense as her debut novel. This one left me guessing all the way – and walking down the station platform refusing to put it down!

How about you? What did you read last month?

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