I’ve been seeing this tag everywhere lately, and it’s been so much fun snooping through everyone’s reading updates! Since I’ve joined in on this tag in previous years, I figured it was time to bring it back and share where my reading stands for 2026. (Note: All books are linked to either my full reviews or Amazon!)

Mid-Year Book Freak Out Tag

Best book(s) you’ve read in 2026?

It probably comes as no surprise that my top reads of the year so far are all Ilona Andrews books! Just click on the images below to check out my full reviews.

New Release(s) you haven’t read yet, but you want to (release(s) that are out)?

Mayhem and the Mortal is a new release that I actually featured right here on the blog! I’m really looking forward to reading it, but I haven’t had the chance to dive in just yet.

Best sequel you’ve read in 2026 (It’s the second book in a series)?

I finally dived into the second book of the Assistant to the Villain series, and it was a total emotional rollercoaster! Between a prophecy, a high-stakes scavenger hunt, and that agonizingly slow-burn romance, this book is non-stop excitement. I absolutely couldn’t put it down, and I’m already looking forward to listening to the next one!

Most anticipate release(s) for the second half of the year (not out yet)?

Here are my most anticipated releases for the second half of the year! I’m eagerly waiting for The Vampire and the Case of the Ghastly Golem by Heather G. Harris, coming in September 2026, and The Farmer Prince by G.A. Aiken, arriving in December 2026.

Biggest disappointment of the year?

My biggest disappointment of the year so far has been Slaying Monsters for the Feeble. I’ve been participating in the Guild Codex world read-along and absolutely loving the experience, but for some reason, I’m having a hard time with Robin. While I love everything else about the Demonized series, Robin feels a bit spineless to me—like someone who just doesn’t belong in this world. She’s become a really frustrating heroine for me to follow.

Most surprising book(s) of this year?

Favorite new author?

The only new author I’ve tried so far this year is Sarah Beth Durst! I dove into The Spellshop, which is an enchanting debut that beautifully kicks off her new series with its sweet, cozy romance and fantasy vibes.

Newest fictional crush?

My newest fictional crush is definitely Zylas from the Guild Codex: Demonized series! He is exactly what you’d hope for in a sexy demon: dangerous, mysterious, and undeniably captivating.

Newest favorite character?

My newest favorite character is definitely Adaline in The Inheritance! She is a badass single mom who simply refuses to give up. This woman is incredibly empowering, resilient, and someone you can’t help but root for.

A book that made you cry?

NONE

A book that made you happy?

Diamond Fire by Ilona Andrews on GraphicAudio. This novella beautifully bridges Nevada’s story into Catalina’s story. The GraphicAudio formats have completely grown on me for the Hidden Legacy series!

Favorite book to movie adaptation?

I don’t have one.

Favorite book review you’ve posted this year?

I’ve been completely hooked on The Other Detective series by Heather G. Harris—it’s such a fantastic supernatural suspense and thriller mystery! My latest review for Frustrated Justice is definitely one of my personal favorite reviews I’ve written so far in 2026.