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I read 32 books in Q1 2026—and I’m breaking down the cozy mysteries, thrillers, romances, and standout 5-star reads you need on your radar.

In this episode, I’m sharing my honest reading recap from the first quarter of the year, including what worked, what didn’t, and the books I’m still thinking about. From bingeing cozy mysteries in Puerto Rico to discovering new favorite romances and thrillers, this is your inside look at what’s worth adding to your TBR.

📚 Books Mentioned

Cozy Mysteries:

Thrillers:

Romance:

Mystery

The Primrose Murder Society by Stacey Hackney

Non-fiction

5⭐ Reads:

Rachel West and the Fallen Starlet by Emma Mills (Mystery)
Too Blessed to Stress by Alli Hoff Kosik (Women’s Fiction)
The Heir by Sophia Travers (Romance - KU)
Hunter’s Treasure by Olivia Jackson (Romance)
Before We Wake by Sophia Glock (Graphic Novel)
This Story Will Save Your Life by Tiffany Crum (Thriller)

⏱️ Timestamps

[00:00] – Intro + Q1 reading recap overview

[01:00] – Cozy mystery binge in Puerto Rico

[02:00] – Books that didn’t work for me

[03:00] – 4-star cozy mysteries

[03:30] – Thriller recommendations

[04:30] – Cozy mystery series I loved

[05:00] – Romance reads (billionaire, rockstar, small town)

[07:00] – Cottagecore + flower shop romances

[08:00] – Mother-daughter mystery rec

[09:00] – Nonfiction reads

[10:00] – Small town romance highlight

[11:00] – 5-star reads overview

[13:30] – First graphic novel experience

[14:30] – Thriller with immersive audio

[15:00] – Wrap up + final thoughts

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