Happy New Year!
Rabbit Test and Other Stories, by Samantha Mills (published on 21 April, 2026)
Yes, I’m still reading a short story (almost) every day, and this collection of deeply moving tales is a great start to my 2026 efforts. I’m about halfway through this collection and nearly every story has left me in tears.
I don’t know how I missed the incredible title story, but I urge you to check it out here.
God of the Woods, by Liz Moore
It took me a few false starts to get into this audiobook, but I’m glad I stuck with it this time. A murder mystery, a commentary on rich idiots, and some fantastic characters.
Cheerful Weather for the Wedding, by Julia Strachey
This was a short, funny audiobook, concerning a family getting ready for a wedding. The narrator is Mariam Margolyes, and she really put on a performance; a little too much at times.
The Only Ones Who Know, by Lisa M. Matlin (published on 3 March, 2026)
You read my full review of this here, but in short, it was a lot of fun. I adore Matlin’s writing; I find it incredibly easy to read. Jaws, but written by Liane Moriarty. Huge fun.
The Ghosts of Merry Hall, by Heather Davey
Heather Davey was on an episode of the Uncanny TV show, which is one of the very highest accolades as far as I’m concerned. I’m halfway through Davey’s debut novel, and I’m enjoying it so far. It switches between a current-day, fraught mom/daughter relationship, and a devastating story of a traveling freak show. Can’t wait to see how things end.
A great start to 2026 from a reading perspective! What are you reading right now? What should I be looking out for in 2026?
Thanks to Tachyon, and Ballantine/Bantham for the ARCs.
California Reading 