Hey lovelies, how are you all doing? Can you feel that gentle shift into spring yet? There’s something about this time of year that always lifts my spirits – it’s one of my favourites. Living on a crescent lined with cherry trees, we’ve been enjoying watching the beautiful blossoms burst into life (though the rain has bashed them off now). It finally feels like we’re getting some warmer weather, and now that the clocks have gone back here in the UK, the lighter evenings are such a joy.
I’ve had some great reading time this month, helped by joining a couple of book clubs, which I’m really excited about. I’m sure they’ll introduce me to authors I’ve not read before – perfect for my personal challenge of reading 50 new authors this year.
Reminder: The Vision for the Book Afghan
To maintain cohesion, I’ve used the same block pattern for the entire afghan (grab the free pattern here), working with yarn from my stash and selecting 3 colours, along with a border of white, that reflect and are closest to (as I’m not buying new yarn!) the book’s cover design.
Here’s what I accomplished in April 2026:
- Total Books Read: and Squares Completed: 11 / 22
- Total New Authors to me this month: 6
- Running total of new authors so far 14 / 50
Pin for later:
April 2026 Reads and Squares
Book 22: Where the Story Starts by Imogen Clark NEW AUTHOR TO ME
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)
Synopsis: Where the Story Starts by Imogen Clark follows a group of individuals brought together by unexpected circumstances, each carrying their own secrets and past struggles. As their lives intertwine, the novel explores themes of friendship, second chances, and self-discovery, revealing how new beginnings can emerge from the most unlikely places.
Review: This was my first experience with this author. I really enjoyed both the story and the writing style – it flowed well and kept my interest right through to the end. Written in multiple perspectives I found myself invested in each of the women’s stories, all of whom engaging in their own way.
That said, I do wish we’d had a bit more from Charles, as his perspective felt like it could have added an extra layer to the overall story. Even so, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment. Overall, this was a satisfying read, and I’d happily pick up more books by this author in the future.
Book 23: The Housemaid’s Wedding (Housemaid #2.5) by Freida McFadden
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3 stars (out of 5)
Synopsis: The Housemaid’s Wedding by Freida McFadden is a brief companion novella in the Housemaid series, offering a glimpse into a pivotal moment in Millie’s life. The story centres around her wedding day, blending tension and dark humour that fans of the series have come to expect.
Review: This is a very short book that feels more like a bonus extra than a standalone story, and it’s likely to appeal most to diehard Freida McFadden fans. While it has its mildly amusing moments and retains the author’s signature twisty tone, it’s hard not to feel that it didn’t quite warrant being printed as a full book. I’d say this book is enjoyable enough for completists, but not essential.
Book 24: Cat and Mouse (DI Helen Grace #11) by M J Artlidge
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.75 stars (out of 5)
Synopsis: Cat and Mouse by M. J. Arlidge is the eleventh instalment in the Helen Grace series. The story follows DI Helen Grace as she faces another high-stakes investigation filled with danger, deception, and psychological tension. A silent killer stalks the city, targeting those home alone at night, playing a deadly game of cat and mouse with the victims.
Review:
I thoroughly enjoyed this eleventh book in the series – it’s a pretty quick read for a bigger sized book packed with plenty of twists and turns that kept me gripped from start to finish. I also really appreciated how this instalment seemed to tie away several characters and plotlines nicely, giving a satisfying sense of closure while still staying true to the tone of the series. A great addition for fans of the Helen Grace’s story.
Book 25: The Psychopath Next Door by Mark Edwards NEW AUTHOR TO ME
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.75 stars (out of 5)
Synopsis: The Psychopath Next Door by Mark Edwards is a tense psychological thriller that explores what happens when danger lurks closer to home than expected. The story follows seemingly ordinary lives that become entangled with secrets, manipulation, and a growing sense of unease, as suspicions build around a chilling presence hiding in plain sight. As the tension escalates, the lines between safety and threat blur, leading to a shocking and unpredictable conclusion.
Review: This was my first time reading anything by Mark Edwards, and I don’t think it will be my last. It’s a lovely quick read, packed with twists and turns that kept me gripped from start to finish. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the story took another turn, and the ending genuinely surprised me – especially with characters dying that I really didn’t expect!
Book 26: Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix NEW AUTHOR TO ME
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)
Synopsis: Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix is a dark and compelling story that blends themes of female friendship, rebellion, and the supernatural. Set against the backdrop of a strict and oppressive environment, a group of young pregnant women begin to explore witchcraft as a means of reclaiming power and control over their lives. As their bond deepens and their practices intensify, the line between empowerment and danger begins to blur, leading to unsettling and transformative consequences.
Review: What a unique book! A compelling blend of literature and horror, with vivid, memorable characters and an intriguing plot. It’s a witchcraft novel set during a time of political and social unrest, centred around a restricted and isolated home for wayward girls, an aspect I found particularly fascinating. This was my first Hendrix novel, and I have a feeling it will stay with me. I’ll definitely be looking out for more from this author.
Book 27: Girl, Interrupted by Susanna Kaysen NEW AUTHOR TO ME
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)
Synopsis: Girl, Interrupted by Susanna Kaysen is a powerful memoir that recounts the author’s experiences as a young woman admitted to a psychiatric hospital in the 1960s. Through a series of vivid snapshots, Kaysen reflects on her diagnosis, her time spent in the institution, and the complex relationships she formed with fellow patients and staff. Blurring the line between sanity and illness, the book offers an introspective and often unsettling exploration of identity, conformity, and what it truly means to be “well.”
Review: I found this book fascinating, it offers an interesting insight into Susanna’s struggles with the world and the challenges of growing up. The book is an easy read, with short chapters that make it accessible while still being thought-provoking as she shares an honest glimpse into life in a mental hospital in the 1960s. I like the included original paperwork, though some of it was a little hard to make out. Overall, it’s an engaging read that held my interest throughout.
Book 28: Do You Remember by Frieda McFadden
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)
Synopsis: She can’t recognize her home. Her bedroom is unfamiliar. And she can’t remember the handsome stranger lying next to her in bed. A stranger who claims he’s her husband. This thriller follows a woman plagued by fragmented memories and a growing sense that something in her past doesn’t add up. As she tries to piece together what really happened, unsettling truths begin to surface, and the people around her may not be who they seem.
Review: This book was an absolute page-turner – I devoured it in 24 hours! It’s a super quick and fun read that had me hooked right from the start. The premise is really intriguing, and I loved trying to figure out what was going on alongside a cast of suspicious characters. The tension builds nicely throughout, leading to a deliciously satisfying villain at the end – a thoroughly entertaining thriller.
Book 29: Fledgling by Octavia E. Butler
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)
Synopsis: Fledgling by Octavia E. Butler follows a young girl named Shori who awakens with amnesia after a violent attack destroys her community. As she struggles to understand who she is, she discovers she belongs to a long-lived, symbiotic species with vampire-like traits. While piecing together her identity, Shori must navigate complex relationships, threats from those who wish her harm, and the responsibilities that come with her nature, all while confronting themes of race, belonging, and survival.
Review: This book seems to divide readers, but for me it really worked. I’ve always had a soft spot for vampire stories, especially ones that bring fresh ideas and new theories to the genre, and this definitely delivered on that front. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and found it engaging throughout. However, I won’t lie there were definitely moments that gave me a bit of an “ick,” even with the context provided. It’s a shame that Octavia Butler passed away before writing more, as this easily could have developed into a longer series. Even so, there was enough closure at the end to feel satisfied.
Book 30: James by Percival Everett NEW AUTHOR TO ME
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)
Synopsis: James by Percival Everett is a reimagining of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, told from the perspective of Jim, the enslaved man at the heart of the original story. As James embarks on a journey toward freedom, the novel explores his inner life, intelligence, and humanity in ways often overlooked in the classic tale. Blending sharp wit with powerful social commentary, the story examines race, identity, and survival in a deeply personal and thought-provoking way.
Review: I thought this was a really thought-provoking retelling of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn but from Big Jim’s perspective. It’s not just about escape, but about identity and claiming his own name. The idea of ‘secret slave English’ was also brilliant and added a powerful layer to the story.
Book 31: A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)
Synopsis: A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig is a magical and heart-warming tale that reimagines the origins of Father Christmas. The story follows a young boy named Nikolas, who sets out on a brave journey to find his father and prove that hope and magic still exist in the world. Along the way, he encounters extraordinary creatures, harsh challenges, and unexpected friendships. Blending adventure with festive charm, the novel explores themes of belief, resilience, and the power of kindness.
Review: I really wanted to include a book that I’d read to my daughter in with my blanket squares, and this one we’ve read slowly together since last year (we only do 3-4 pages per night so it took awhile!) But this is a lovely book that I wanted to read as I’d enjoyed Matt Haig’s adult novels. A lovely retelling of an old story, with nice bits of humour which make it an enjoyable read.
Book 32: Medea by Rosie Hewlett NEW AUTHOR TO ME
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.75 stars (out of 5)
Synopsis: Medea by Rosie Hewlett reimagines the infamous figure from Greek mythology, telling the story from Medea’s own perspective. Often cast as a villain, here she is portrayed with greater depth and humanity, exploring her origins, her powers, and the forces that shape her fate. As she navigates love, betrayal, and exile, the novel sheds new light on her motivations, transforming a tragic myth into a more nuanced and emotionally resonant tale.
Review: The story of Medea was actually one I knew well as I’d studied the Euripides version for my degree, but I have a soft spot for a feminist retelling of Greek mythology so I was looking forward to reading this. I did love the different viewpoint of someone who is classically seen as a villain and the book does suggest more of a reason by her behaviour. However I still felt the reason for her ultimate crime was a little lacking.
All the books so far
Don’t want to scroll and look for all the books that I’ve read so far? Well I’ve put together a handy list in my Amazon storefront so you can see all the books in one place: Go to the book list
Looking Ahead to May
This month’s reads have been such a joy – I’m loving how my stack of squares is a little patchwork of stories, each one tied to a moment in time.
I think at this time of year I’m going to look for some lighter, uplifting reads – the kind that feel perfect for a sunny afternoon or a quiet evening with the windows open.
I’d love to hear what you’ve been reading or making lately. And if you have any go-to spring or summer books (or authors!) you’d recommend, please share them in the comments – I’m always on the lookout for new inspiration to turn into future squares. 🧶📚✨
Stay tuned for next month’s updates. Until then, happy hooking and happy reading!
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