Tag Archives: Book Blanket

Bookish Stitches 2026: February’s Book Blanket Progress

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Hey lovelies, how are you? Coping with the dreary weather (or is that just me here in the UK?). January somehow felt like the longest month and like it disappeared in a blink – seriously, how are we already in February? But with all the rainy and freezing weather I’ve been looking forward to getting cosy with lots of books as I continue along with my 2026 Crochet Book Blanket project.

A collage featuring book covers and colourful crochet squares, promoting the KCACO.UK Book Blanket progress for February 2026.

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 4 colours that reflect and are closest to (as I’m not buying new yarn!) the book’s cover design.

Here’s what I accomplished in February 2026:

  • Total Books Read: and Squares Completed: 8 / 16
  • Total New Authors to me this month: 2
  • Running total of new authors so far 4 / 50

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A collage featuring book covers of various titles including 'The Many Futures of Maddy Hart', 'Saving Noah', 'Lullaby', 'The Intruder', and others.

February 2026 Reads and Squares

Book 7: The Many Futures of Maddy Hart by Laura Pearson

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Synopsis:
The Many Futures of Maddy Hart by Laura Pearson follows Maddy Hart, a woman who is unexpectedly shown glimpses of possible futures. As she navigates love, choices, and consequences, she must decide whether knowing what might happen is a gift or a burden.

Review:
I really enjoyed this book – such an interesting premise paired with great characters. However, the ending felt abrupt, which left me a little disappointed. I’ve loved everything Laura Pearson has written so far, though, so I’ll happily continue reading the rest of her work

Cover of 'The Many Futures of Maddy Hart' by Laura Pearson featuring a bright pink design with floral elements, accompanied by a pink and white crochet square and a colour palette of pink shades.

Book 8: Percy Jackson and The Last Olympian (Percy Jackson and The Olympians #5) by Rick Riordan

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis:
Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan is the thrilling conclusion to Percy Jackson’s adventures. As the final battle with the Titans looms, Percy and his friends must defend Olympus itself, face impossible odds, and confront their destinies in a story full of heroism, twists, and mythological wonder.

Review:
I really enjoyed this and thought it was the perfect finale to the Percy Jackson series. It throws you straight into the action from the start and was a really fun, fast-paced read.

Image featuring a promotional graphic for Book 8, 'Percy Jackson and The Last Olympian' by Rick Riordan. Includes a crocheted square with colourful patterns, rating stars, and a banner with the hashtag #KCACOUKBookMAL2026.

Book 9: Saving Noah by Lucinda Berry NEW AUTHOR TO ME

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Trigger Warnings:
The book contains themes of s*xual abuse, suicide, and emotional distress that some readers may find upsetting.

Synopsis:
Saving Noah by Lucinda Berry follows a gripping story centered on Noah, whose life becomes entwined with secrets, challenges, and moral dilemmas. As the narrative unfolds, the book explores difficult choices, family dynamics, and the consequences of actions, building to an unexpected and powerful climax.

Review:
This was a new author to me, and it was an intense read. A very thought-provoking exploration of complex themes, it’s well written with a powerful storyline that kept me engaged throughout. I did not see the surprise twist at the end coming, which made the ending all the more impactful.

Graphic featuring the title 'Saving Noah' by Lucinda Berry, labelled as Book 9 with a 4 star rating, and accompanied by a crochet square in teal, grey, and coral colours, along with colour swatches.

Book 10: Lullaby by Leïla Slimani NEW AUTHOR TO ME

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.5 stars (out of 5)

Trigger Warnings:
Contains graphic violence, child harm, psychological abuse, and disturbing themes that may be upsetting to some readers.

Synopsis:
Lullaby by Leïla Slimani is a psychological thriller that explores the dark complexities of domestic life. The story follows a seemingly idyllic family whose lives spiral into chaos after a shocking event, revealing hidden tensions, obsessions, and moral ambiguities.

Review:
A compelling read but deeply unsettling. The book opens with a horrific act that immediately pulls you in, keeping the tension high throughout. However, the ending felt a bit too abrupt to fully satisfy.

A graphic featuring the hashtag #KCACOUKBookMAL2026, indicating Book 10, titled 'Lullaby' by Leïla Slimani, with 3.5 stars rating. It includes a colourful crochet square in various shades and the book cover showing a baby in a light blue outfit.

Book 11: The Intruder by Freida McFadden

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.75 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis:
The Intruder by Freida McFadden follows a suspenseful story told across dual timelines, centering on secrets, unexpected visitors, and the consequences of past actions. The narrative weaves together past and present to gradually reveal the truth behind the intruder’s motives.

Review:
A fast-paced Freida McFadden read that I really enjoyed. The dual timelines kept things interesting, and the twists were fun, even if some were a bit predictable. Not edge-of-your-seat suspense, but definitely an enjoyable and engaging read.

Graphic promoting '#KCACOUKBookMAL2026' featuring Book 11, 'The Intruder' by Frieda McFadden. Includes a crochet square in colours of red, black, and blue, and the book cover showing the title and author's name.

Book 12: Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeny

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeny follows a man whose seemingly perfect life begins to unravel after a shocking event. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of a remote island, the story explores isolation, secrets, and the tensions that simmer beneath the surface. As relationships are tested and hidden truths emerge, the novel delves into themes of identity, deception, and the fine line between appearances and reality.

Review: I really enjoyed this one. The remote island setting created a wonderfully tense, atmospheric backdrop throughout. The story kept me engaged, and I loved the twist at the end, it was cleverly done. Overall, a compelling read.

A promotional graphic for 'Beautiful Ugly' by Alice Feeney, featuring a crochet square in various shades of blue and purple, alongside the book cover displaying an island and ocean with the title prominently featured.

Book 13: November 9 by Colleen Hoover

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.75 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: November 9 by Colleen Hoover follows Fallon and Ben, who meet by chance the day before Fallon moves across the country. They agree to reunite on the same date each year, forming a unique relationship built on brief encounters, evolving emotions, and untold truths. As the years pass, their lives intertwine in unexpected ways, revealing secrets that challenge their connection and perceptions of love.

Review:

Collage featuring a colourful crochet square with blue, red, and pink stripes alongside the book cover for 'November 9' by Colleen Hoover. The title and author are prominently displayed, and there's a star rating of 3.75 stars.

Book 14: Bunny by Mona Awad

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.5 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Bunny by Mona Awad follows Samantha, an outsider in an elite Master of Fine Arts writing program, who becomes entangled with a clique of eerily sweet, disturbingly inseparable women known as the “Bunnies.” As she’s drawn into their strange world of rituals, creativity, and blurred realities, the line between imagination and horror begins to dissolve, leading to increasingly surreal and unsettling consequences.

Review:

Promotional image for the book 'Bunny' by Mona Awad, featuring a colourful crochet square and a book cover. Includes the hashtag #KCACOUKBookMAL2026 and a 3.5 star rating.

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 March

I’m so excited to keep turning the pages of this project – every square feels like a tiny yarn bookmark memory, it will be interesting to me how many I can remember just from the colours later on in the blanket making process.

Are you stitching or reading along too? I’d love to hear what you’re making and what you’re reading. And if you have a favourite book (or author!) that you think would make the perfect square, drop your suggestions in the comments below – I’m always ready for the next story to stitch into my blanket. 🧶📚✨

Stay tuned for next month’s updates. Until then, happy hooking and happy reading!

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P.S. I’d love to stay connected with you so please do sign up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, giveaways, special offers or new pattern releases are available.

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Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.

Crochet Meets Reading: My Book Blanket Challenge for 2026 with new free pattern

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Along, Free Patterns by

If there’s one thing that sits right at the heart of my creative life, it’s the cosy intersection between a good book and a warm crochet blanket project. Last year I kicked off my very first Book Blanket Challenge, combining my love of reading with my passion for crochet – and what a joy that journey was! I’m still putting together the blanket for 2025, but that hasn’t stopped me from starting this years plans.

This year I’m taking things in a new direction — not just for a new blanket project, but expanding my reading horizons more intentionally. My aim for 2026 is to read books by at least 50 NEW authors – authors whose voices, stories and styles I haven’t encountered before. And just like last year, each book will be represented with crochet blocks in my book blanket!

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A flat lay of crochet squares on a wooden surface surrounded by crochet tools and a potted plant, with text promoting a free crochet pattern titled 'Readers Row Square'.

Why a Book Blanket?

For me, this project is more than a list of titles or a stack of yarn squares, it’s a creative celebration of time spent curled up in vivid worlds, learning from new voices, and connecting stories with stitch. It gives every book a place in history… and every stitch a story.

This challenge also gives purpose to my yarn stash, turning leftovers into colourful memories that mark everything I’ve read. Last years blanket caused a nice dent in the stash, but as you can imagine I have SOOOOO much more to use.

A flat lay image featuring two crocheted coasters in a colourful pattern, a wooden slice base, a book titled 'My Sister, the Serial Killer' by Oyinkan Braithwaite, a pair of scissors, and various balls of yarn in different colors.

My 2026 Plan

Here’s how I’m approaching this year’s challenge:

📚 1. New Authors, New Adventures – 50 to Discover
My core intention for 2026 is to read books by 50 different authors I haven’t read before – stretching my reading palette with fresh perspectives and styles. When I find a book by an author I’ve already read, it’s still welcome and it will be included but I’m excited to include intentionally new authors to me.

🧶 2. Two Squares for Every Book
For every book finished, I’ll crochet two blocks that reflect its cover colours. The blanket will continue to grow in colour as the stories stack up. This time however I’ll be adding the border colour as I go to make the task of joining them all together easier at the end – something I’ve learnt from not doing that last year.

📘 3. Track on Goodreads (and Here!)
Just like last year, I’ll use Goodreads to track my reading progress and link back my monthly lists here on the blog so you can follow along – I’ll also start a new Amazon book list so you can see all the 2026 books together easily in one place as I read them.

🎨 4. Yarn from the Stash
I’ll prioritise using stash yarn where I can, matching colours to book covers (as best I can stash dependent) using my trusty colour‑picker tool (https://coolors.co/image-picker) – and hopefully bust a bit more stash along the way! Last year I used all stash, though I did have to buy some more white for the borders of my squares.

📸 5. Share the Stories
At the end of each subsequent month (so January squares will be posted in February, February squares in March etc):

  • I’ll share which books I read,
  • the authors behind them,
  • my thoughts on each book,
  • and the crochet squares I’ve made inspired by each book here on the blog.

Finding new authors and new palettes in parallel – what could be better? If you want to join in too you can add your favourite book recommendations as comments here on the blog or on social media. You can also use the hashtag #KCACOUKBookCAL2026 – I can’t wait to see your book blankets grow.

Want to take on this challenge with me? The block I’ll be using is simple yet versatile, making it ideal for customisation. Here’s the pattern for you to try:

The pattern below is written just in UK terms but you can view a handy conversion chart here on the blog.

📚 Save Reader’s Row Square Pattern as a favourite on Ravelry 📚

Scroll down for the free version or pick up the ad-free PDF Pattern is available from my pattern platforms below.

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Reader’s Row Square Pattern

A top-down view of colourful crochet squares in pink, yellow, black, and white, placed on a wooden slice surrounded by crafting tools like scissors, a crochet hook, and a candle.

Skill Level: Beginner / Easy

Size: 11cm x 11cm (4.3in x 4.3in)

Hook: 3.5mm (US size E)

Yarn Amounts (for one block):

  • 2.3g / 6.3m of YARN A
  • 2.3g / 6.3m of YARN B
  • 2.3g / 6.3m of YARN C
  • 2.3g / 6.3m of YARN D

Each square uses approx. 9.2g / 25.2m of Double Knit yarn (Light Worsted)

STITCH GUIDANCE – UK Terminology

  • Stitches (st): Stitch abbreviations st or sts stand for “stitch” or “stitches”
  • Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
  • Chain (ch): Bring yarn over the hook from back to front and draw it through the slip knot (or previous chain) to form a new loop on the hook.
  • Chain Space (ch-sp): A chain space is an empty area, gap, or hole in the fabric created by making a specific number of chain stitches and often skipping stitches in the previous row.
  • Treble (tr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook.
  • Cluster (Cl): 3tr in one st
  • Post of the stitch: In crochet, the “post of a stitch” is the vertical, stem-like body of a stitch from the row below.

PATTERN NOTES

  • Gauge: 12tr = 6cm / 2.4inchs. Obtaining the correct gauge is not critical for this project.
  • [ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
  • ( … ) Work all stitches in round brackets in single st or sp
A close-up of colourful crocheted granny squares arranged in a mixed pattern, featuring various shades including orange, pink, yellow, black, and teal.

PATTERN

Make 2.

PATTERN

  • The first part of this pattern is worked in rows.
  • The ch3 at the beginning of a row or round counts as the first tr.

Row 1: With YARN A; Ch19, Cl in the 5th ch from hook [miss 2ch, Cl in next st] 3 times, miss 2ch, Cl in next st, miss 1ch, 1tr in the last st, turn. 17sts

Row 2: Ch3, 1tr in the top of the same st, [miss Cl from previous row, Cl in between the next two Cl of the previous row] 4 times, miss Cl, 2tr in the last st, turn. 16sts

Row 3: Ch3, miss 2sts, Cl in between the next two Cl of the previous row, [miss next Cl, Cl in between the next two Cl of the previous row] 4 times, miss 1 st, 1tr in the top of the last st, turn. 17sts

Fasten off YARN A, attach YARN B to the top of the last st worked;

Row 4: Repeat row 2

Row 5: Repeat row 3

Row 6: Repeat row 2.

Fasten off YARN B, attach YARN C to the top of the last st worked;

Row 7: Repeat row 3

Row 8: Repeat row 2

Row 9: Repeat row 3.

Fasten off YARN C and weave in all ends.

The following part of this pattern is worked in the round (rnd).

Border:

  • Turn your square upside down. Attach Yarn D to the post of the stitch at the right-hand corner, ready to work along the bottom of Row 1 from right to left.
  • Ch 3, 2tr in the same sp, ch 3, 3tr in the same sp (first corner made).
  • [Miss next Cl, Cl in next ch-2 sp] across 4 times.(3tr, ch 3, 3tr) around the post of the stitch at the right-hand corner. Turn your work anticlockwise to work along the row ends.
  • Work Cl at the top of the stitch of Row 2, around the post of the stitches of Rows 4 and 6, then at the top of the stitch of Row 7.(3tr, ch 3, 3tr) around the post of the stitch of Row 9.
  • Turn your work anticlockwise to work along the top of Row 9 from right to left.[Miss Cl, Cl between sts of Row 9] 4 times, miss Cl, then work (3tr, ch 3, 3tr) around the post of the remaining stitch of Row 9.
  • Turn your work anticlockwise to work along the row ends. Work Cl at the top of the stitch of Row 7, around the post of the stitches of Rows 6 and 4, then at the top of the stitch of Row 2. Sl st to the top of the first ch-3 to join. 72sts
A diagram showing a crochet pattern with different colored stitches: green, red, and blue, along with notations for chain (ch), treble (tr), and chain three (ch3).

This is going to be such a fun and meaningful project, and I can’t wait to see how it evolves. Whether you’re a reader, a crocheter, or both, I’d love for you to join me. Let’s crochet our love of books into something beautiful while using up those long-neglected yarns in our stashes!

Let me know in the comments if you’re planning to make a book afghan this year- or if you’ve made one before. Share your tips, tricks, or favourite books! 📚

Happy crocheting and reading, until next time; keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

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P.S. I’d love to stay connected with you so please do sign up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, giveaways, special offers or new pattern releases are available.

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Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.

Bookish Stitches: December Book Blanket Progress

Posted in Blanket, Crochet by

It’s the last month’s update of books that I read in 2025! We’ve made it to the end, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it – so much so that I’ve already planned what I’m doing for 2026. Spoiler alert: it’s another book blanket! While I’m putting that new blanket together in the background, here’s my update for December 2025.

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A collage featuring the book covers of 'The Pumpkin Spice Cafe' by Laurie Gilmore, 'Home Before Dark' by Riley Sager, 'The Life & Loves of Becca Valentine' by Laura Pearson, '25 Days' by Per Jacobsen, 'Down to the Woods' by M J Artlidge, 'Murder at Midwinter' by Ada Moncrieff and The Sea of Monsters (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #2) by Rick Riordan alongside colourful crocheted blanket squares representing the KCACO.UK Book Blanket progress for December 2025.

Looking back at December, it was a busy month with all the usual seasonal hustle, but I managed to make significant progress on my 2025 Crochet Book Blanket during the calmer Betwixtmas period. That little window between Christmas and New Year’s was perfect for catching up on both reading and making squares.

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 colours that reflect the book’s cover design. The ultimate goal? A warm, meaningful blanket that doubles as a literary keepsake.

Here’s what I accomplished in November:

  • Total Books Read: and Squares Completed: 7 / 14

December Reads and Squares

Book 78: The Pumpkin Spice Cafe by Laurie Gilmore

My Rating: ⭐⭐ 2.5 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Pumpkin Spice Cafe follows Jeanie, who leaves her dull city life after inheriting her aunt’s cosy café in the small town of Dream Harbor and quickly finds herself at the centre of a slow-burn romance with the grumpy local farmer Logan amidst autumnal fall vibes and community chatter. I read it for all the hype to see what the fuss was about, but it really wasn’t my cup of tea – it’s very schmaltzy, Hallmark-style romance with not much depth, and that kind of cosy love story isn’t really my wheelhouse at all.

A promotional image for 'The Pumpkin Spice Cafe' by Laurie Gilmore featuring a crocheted square with autumn colors, the book cover, and ratings.

Book 79: Home Before Dark by Riley Sager

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.75 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Home Before Dark is a chilling, atmospheric thriller that flips between past and present as Maggie Holt returns to the infamous Baneberry Hall, the haunted house her family fled from when she was a child, to uncover the truth behind her father’s bestselling horror memoir and the eerie events that still haunt the property. The story is richly unsettling and creepy throughout, and I found it very atmospheric and engaging, with a twist at the end that I genuinely didn’t see coming.

Image featuring crochet square design alongside the book cover of 'Home Before Dark' by Riley Sager. The square is made with red, black, and white yarn, and the cover art depicts a spooky house against a dark red background.

Book 80: The Life & Loves of Becca Valentine by Laura Pearson

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis:  The Life & Loves of Becca Valentine tells the emotional, slightly magical story of Becca as she’s faced with two very different romantic possibilities, and the knowledge that the choices she makes will shape not just her own future but the very existence of four potential children waiting for her in a place called the “Beforelife.” It’s an inventive blend of women’s fiction and heartfelt romance with an intriguing premise that keeps you invested in Becca’s journey of love, fate and self-discovery. I absolutely loved this book – such a unique premise, beautifully written with great characters that really stay with you.

A collage featuring the book cover of 'The Life & Loves of Becca Valentine' by Laura Pearson, along with a colorful crochet square designed as part of a book blanket project, and the hashtag #KCACOUKBookMAL2025.

Book 81: 25 Days by Per Jacobsen

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis:  Hoping to bring his family closer together, Adam Gray arranges a vacation in a remote cabin on a snowy mountain. Then things take a dark turn…My imagination was definitely captured by the idea of a thriller story styled as an advent calendar – one chapter a day from 1st December. I really enjoyed reading a chapter a day, but must confess that I also found it a little hard to stop after one chapter as it’s not my normal style of reading. That said I would definitely do a book advent like this again as it was enjoyable.

A graphic showcasing Book 81 from a reading challenge, featuring a crochet square in red, white, and blue colors, along with the book cover of '25 Days' by Per Jacobsen, which includes a snowy landscape and a Christmas-themed image.

Book 82: Down to the Woods (DI Helen Grace #8) by M J Artlidge

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.75 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis:  Down to the Woods is the eighth DI Helen Grace thriller by M. J. Arlidge, in which Helen and her team are drawn into a terrifying case when campers in the New Forest are hunted and murdered in gruesome, ritual-like fashion, their bodies displayed hanging from trees as a dangerous killer stalks the eerie woods. The investigation leads deep into the dark forest in a race against time to stop more deaths, but I found this one a bit long-winded at times, even though there are some good plot twists that help keep the tension alive.

A crochet square featuring brown, yellow, and white colors alongside the cover of the book 'Down to the Woods' by M J Artlidge, indicating it is Book 82 in a reading challenge.

Book 83: Murder At Midwinter by Ada Moncrieff

My Rating: ⭐⭐ 2.75 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis:  Murder At Midwinter is pitched as a festive, cosy mystery set in December 1937, where amateur sleuth Daphne King returns to her old school for a twentieth‑anniversary reunion that soon takes a darker turn – a long‑buried disappearance from their youth resurfaces, and by the morning after the celebrations one of her former classmates is found dead, drawing her back into investigation to uncover the links between past and present. I was looking forward to reading this as a cosy Christmas mystery since it seemed to have all the right ingredients, but the slow build, large cast, very little Christmas atmosphere and the fact that the murder doesn’t happen until page 170 meant it just didn’t work for me and was underwhelming.

A crochet square featuring blue, brown, black, and white colors alongside the cover of the book 'Murder at Midwinter' by Ada Moncrieff, indicating it is Book 83 in a reading challenge.

Book 84: The Sea of Monsters (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #2) by Rick Riordan

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis:  The Sea of Monsters is the second book in Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, and it’s another well‑written and entertaining installment. Percy returns to Camp Half-Blood to find that the magical borders protecting the camp are failing, and he must embark on a dangerous quest with his friends to retrieve the mythical Golden Fleece and save the camp. I love the clever blend of Greek mythology with modern adventure, and this book keeps the humour, heart, and action flowing – I’m excited to continue this series and see where Percy’s journey goes next.

A crochet square featuring blue, white, black, and white colors alongside the cover of the book The Sea of Monsters (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #2) by Rick Riordan, indicating it is Book 84 in a reading challenge.

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 list in my Amazon storefront so you can see all the books in one place: Go to the book list

It’s the end of an era!

At the end of this year-long challenge, I can’t believe I’ve read a total of 84 physical books and made 168 crocheted squares inspired by those reads! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this project, and I love that even now I can pretty much remember which book each square represents. It’s turned into a beautiful memory blanket for me, not just of the stories themselves, but also of the places and moments I’ve read them, like holidays and cosy evenings at home. Now comes the next step: putting all the squares together. Please bear with me, as it may take a little while – it’s a lot of squares! That said, this project has already sparked ideas for next year’s plan, and I can’t wait to get started.

If you have joined in with this challenge please share your progress with the #KCACOUKBookCAL2025 hashtag as I’d love to see your finished blankets too.

Looking Ahead to a NEW blanket in 2026

I’ll be sharing my new blanket plans soon along with a new square pattern that I’ll be using for 2026, I’m going to try and include new authors to me this time – is there anyone / any book that I should definitely include? Let me know in the comments.

Until then, happy hooking and happy reading!

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P.S. I’d love to stay connected with you so please do sign up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, giveaways, special offers or new pattern releases are available.

Subscribe to the blog:

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.

Bookish Stitches: Novembers Book Blanket Progress

Posted in Blanket, Crochet by

Time for my November reading recap for the 2025 Crochet Book Blanket project! I always post a month behind, so now’s the perfect time to reflect on last month’s reads. November brought plenty of cosy moments, the kind made for curling up with a good book and a hot drink, and I loved seeing how each story added its own touch to my blanket. Who else is leaning into those slow, snuggly evenings with a great read?

Pin for later:

A collage featuring the book covers of 'Little Boy Blue' by M J Artlidge, 'Hide and Seek' by M J Artlidge, 'Love Untold' by Ruth Jones, 'The Woman Who Lied' by Claire Douglas, 'The Storyteller' by Jodi Picoult, 'Love Me Not' by M J Artlidge alongside colourful crocheted blanket squares representing the KCACO.UK Book Blanket progress for November 2025.

As we move into the last quarter of the year, I’m definitely finding it harder to keep on top of everything – November / December always seems packed with social plans and seasonal activities! Still, I’ve been making sure to carve out a little time for reading (and crocheting!), even if it’s not as much as before. Finishing the day with a few pages is still my favourite way to unwind before sleep, and sharing these updates helps keep me motivated and accountable.

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 colours that reflect the book’s cover design. The ultimate goal? A warm, meaningful blanket that doubles as a literary keepsake.

Here’s what I accomplished in November:

  • Total Books Read: and Squares Completed: 6 / 12

November Reads and Squares

Book 72: Little Boy Blue (DI Helen Grace #5) by M J Artlidge

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.75 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Little Boy Blue is the fifth book in M J Arlidge’s DI Helen Grace series, and I’m really enjoying working my way through these — they’re always dark, fast-paced, and satisfyingly twisty. This time, Helen is drawn into a murder investigation that hits uncomfortably close to home, forcing her to confront secrets she’s fought hard to keep buried. Tense and unsettling throughout, it builds steadily to a great cliffhanger that makes it impossible not to want to pick up the next book straight away.

Image featuring a crochet square with a grey, black, and blue pattern next to the book cover for 'Little Boy Blue' by M.J. Arlidge, alongside details including the book number and rating.

Book 73: Hide and Seek (DI Helen Grace #6) by M J Artlidge

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.75 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Hide and Seek is the sixth thriller in M. J. Arlidge’s DI Helen Grace series, and I read this one straight after Little Boy Blue because I needed to know what happened next. In it, Helen is framed for murder and ends up in Holloway Prison with nowhere to hide, where she has to stay alive and clear her name while a gruesome killer starts picking off inmates around her. It’s another fast-paced, tense read – even though I guessed the villain, the suspense and twists kept me hooked throughout.

A collage showcasing Book 73 'Hide and Seek' by M J Arlidge, featuring the book cover on one side and a crocheted square inspired by its colors and design on the other. The image includes a rating of two stars and a hashtag for a crochet book challenge.

Book 74: Love Untold by Ruth Jones

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Love Untold follows four generations of Welsh women as they navigate family, secrets and the long-standing rift that has kept them apart. Nearly 90-year-old Grace just wants to make peace before her big birthday, but that means finding her daughter Alys, estranged for decades and deeply missed, even if it risks upsetting granddaughter Elin and great-granddaughter Beca, who’s wrapped up in her own teenage life. It’s a warm, heartfelt story about mothers and daughters, forgiveness and the bonds that hold families together, and I really enjoyed following the multigenerational women and the Welsh-ness woven throughout.

Graphic featuring the title 'Book 74: Love Untold' by Ruth Jones, a square crochet piece in blue, yellow, white, and navy, and a color palette of blues and yellows.

Book 75: The Woman Who Lied by Claire Douglas

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Woman Who Lied follows bestselling crime novelist Emilia Ward, whose life starts to eerily mirror the sinister plots in the book she’s currently writing as unsettling events from her fiction begin happening in real life – and then someone she knows is killed in the same way as a character in her unpublished manuscript. While the premise promised a clever twist on psychological suspense, I didn’t enjoy this one as much as I hoped; it felt a bit too far-fetched at times, even though the mid-story twist was pretty clever.

Graphic featuring the book cover of 'The Woman Who Lied' by Claire Douglas alongside a crocheted square. The image includes a color palette and the text '#KCACOUKBookMAL2025' and 'Book 75'.

Book 76: The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult follows Sage Singer, a solitary baker whose life is upended when an elderly friend from her grief support group reveals a shocking past and asks her to help him die – forcing her to confront difficult questions about justice, forgiveness and the legacy of atrocity. Interwoven with this present-day moral dilemma is the harrowing story of Sage’s grandmother, a Holocaust survivor whose experiences add depth and weight to the narrative. Very thought-provoking and meticulously researched, the novel makes you question the nature of good and evil and lingers long after you’ve finished – even though it tackles an incredibly emotive topic with compassion and complexity.

Collage featuring the book 'The Storyteller' by Jodi Picoult alongside a colorful crochet square.

Book 77: Love Me Not (DI Helen Grace #7) by M J Artlidge

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐3.5 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Love Me Not is the seventh DI Helen Grace thriller by M. J. Arlidge, and although it wasn’t my favourite in the series, it’s another gripping, high‑octane read. The story unfolds over a single 24‑hour period as Helen races to stop a terrifying spree of seemingly random killings terrorising Southampton, with the clock ever‑ticking and shocking violence erupting around every turn. It’s fast‑paced with plenty of twists to keep your interest, even if the plot felt a bit less memorable than some of the others.

A graphic showing 'Book 77: Love Me Not (DI Helen Grace #7) by M J Arlidge' with a crochet square featuring pink, yellow, and white colors, alongside the book cover displaying the title and author's name.

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 list in my Amazon storefront so you can see all the books in one place: Go to the book list

Looking Ahead to December

As we step into the final month of December, I’m looking forward to cosy winter reading sessions and seeing how these last stories of the year will shape the closing squares of my Crochet Book Blanket. Each book has brought its own mood and colour to the project, and I’m hoping the winter season will draw me toward tales with a frosty, festive palette to finish the blanket on a warm, wintry note – do you have any favourite festive books I should include?

If you’re joining in, don’t forget to share your progress with the #KCACOUKBookCAL2025 hashtag — I’ve been loving all your updates!

Stay tuned for next month’s updates. Until then, happy hooking and happy reading!

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P.S. I’d love to stay connected with you so please do sign up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, giveaways, special offers or new pattern releases are available.

Subscribe to the blog:

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.

Bookish Stitches: Octobers Book Blanket Progress

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Time for my October reading recap for the 2025 Crochet Book Blanket project! I always post a month behind, so it’s the perfect time to look back on what I read in October. The crisp autumn days made for some wonderfully cosy reading sessions, and I loved watching both my blanket and my book list grow. Who else is embracing the season with a stack of good books and a warm blanket?

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A collage featuring the book covers of 'Apples Never Fall' by Liane Moriarty, 'The Couple's Revenge' by Daniel Hurst, 'Plain Truth' by Jodi Picoult, 'The Woman Who Met Herself' by Laura Pearson, and 'The Devil Wears Scrubs' by Freida McFadden, alongside colorful crocheted blanket squares representing the KCACO.UK Book Blanket progress for October 2025.

As we move into the last quarter of the year, I’m finding it a little harder to keep up – but I’m making sure to set aside some time for reading (and crocheting!) even if it’s not as prolific as earlier in the year, and posting these updates definitely helps keep me accountable.

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 colours that reflect the book’s cover design. The ultimate goal? A warm, meaningful blanket that doubles as a literary keepsake.

Here’s what I accomplished in October:

  • Total Books Read: and Squares Completed: 5 / 10

October Reads and Squares

Book 67: Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.75 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Apples Never Fall follows the Delaney family, former tennis coaches whose lives unravel when Joy Delaney mysteriously disappears. As suspicion falls on both her husband and a strange young woman who recently entered their lives, the Delaney siblings must confront hidden family tensions and long-held secrets to uncover the truth. Not my favourite Moriarty book, but she’s still a great storyteller, and she creates great characters so I’ll continue working my way through all of her novels.

Graphic for Book 67 in the #KCACOUKBookMAL2025 challenge, featuring the title 'Apples Never Fall' by Liane Moriarty, a crocheted square in vibrant colors, and a star rating of 3.5 stars.

Book 68: The Couple’s Revenge by Daniel Hurst

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Couple’s Revenge is a psychological thriller about a family pushed to the brink after their teenage son is bullied – and badly hurt. When school and police intervention fail, the parents decide to take matters into their own hands. Their love and fear for their child spiral them into a dangerous path of vengeance, forcing them to confront how far they’re willing to go to protect him. I personally found the characters and plot a wee bit far fetched and quite predictable – and I felt the bully theme had been done before, but better.

Graphic for Book 68 in the #KCACOUKBookMAL2025 reading project featuring the title 'The Couple's Revenge' by Daniel Hurst, a crochet square in autumn colors, and a star rating of 2 stars.

Book 69: Plain Truth by Jodi Picoult

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Plain Truth centres on an Amish community shaken when a newborn is found dead in a barn and a teenage Amish girl becomes the prime suspect. A big-city defence attorney takes on the case and must navigate cultural divides, hidden trauma, and buried truths. As the investigation unfolds, everyone is forced to question guilt, innocence, and the powerful pull of belonging. Like most of Jodi’s stories I love how they all feature a complex moral dilemma, I enjoyed the provocative storyline and found the insights into Amish life really interesting.

Image featuring the layout for Book 69 of the #KCACOUKBookMAL2025 project. It highlights the book 'Plain Truth' by Jodi Picoult with a two-star rating, alongside a colorful crochet square in the corner and a muted color palette above.

Book 70: The Woman Who Met Herself by Laura Pearson

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Woman Who Met Herself tells the story of two women in their sixties – Ruth Waverley and Debbie Jones – whose lives take an astonishing turn when Debbie, working as a charity fundraiser, knocks on Ruth’s door only for them to discover they look exactly alike. Shocked by the uncanny resemblance, the two strangers form a bond and begin to unravel a connection neither expected, triggering revelations about identity, family, loss and second chances. The novel explores grief, self-discovery and how sometimes startling coincidences can upend everything – even late in life. Loved the premise for this story; identical twins who have never met. Would be a lovely holiday read.

Image promoting Book 70 of the Crochet Book Blanket project featuring a crochet square in yellow, black, and white colors, alongside the book cover of 'The Woman Who Met Herself' by Laura Pearson, which includes the title, author name, and star rating.

Book 71: The Devil Wears Scrubs (Dr. Jane McGill #1) by Freida McFadden

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐3.5 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Devil Wears Scrubs follows first-year medical resident Dr. Jane McGill as she battles exhaustion, impossible expectations, and the notoriously cruel senior resident who seems determined to make her life miserable. Amid chaotic shifts, medical mishaps, and darkly funny moments, Jane must find her confidence, and her compassion, to survive the pressures of hospital life and prove she belongs in the world of medicine. A different book from the usual thriller from McFadden, this is a quick and easy romance. I especially enjoyed the percentage of how much Jane might quit her job at the end of each chapter.

Image showcasing Book 71 from the Crochet Book Blanket project featuring the title 'The Devil Wears Scrubs' by Freida McFadden, a star rating of 3.5 stars, a colorful crochet square with red, black, and white colors, and the hashtag #KCACOUKBookMAL2025.

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 list in my Amazon storefront so you can see all the books in one place: Go to the book list

Looking Ahead to November

As we step into November, I’m looking forward to cosy winter reading sessions and seeing how these penultimate stories of the year will inspire the next squares in my Crochet Book Blanket. Each book has brought its own mood and colour to the project, and I’m curious to see whether the winter months will draw me toward tales with a frosty, festive palette.

If you’re joining in, don’t forget to share your progress with the #KCACOUKBookCAL2025 hashtag — I’ve been loving all your updates!

What’s your favourite winter or holiday read? I’d love to hear your cosy recommendations in the comments 👇

Stay tuned for next month’s updates. Until then, happy hooking and happy reading!

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P.S. I’d love to stay connected with you so please do sign up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, giveaways, special offers or new pattern releases are available.

Subscribe to the blog:

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.

Bookish Stitches: September’s Book Blanket Progress

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Time for a September update on my 2025 Crochet Book Blanket project. I can’t believe we’ve already reached the ‘ber’ months! After a wonderful summer filled with family time and plenty of opportunities to read, I’m excited to settle into a new season of page-turning. Who else is ready for cosy reading sessions, whether it’s curled up in bed or tucked into a comfy chair with a blanket?

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A collage of book covers and crochet squares representing the September progress of a Book Blanket project, featuring titles like 'Winter Garden', 'The Tenth Circle', 'Liar, Liar', 'Here One Moment', 'The Maid's Secret', 'You Killed Me First,' and 'Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief'.

That said I’ve had to hustle a little to catch up with my squares this month as we are moving into the busiest period of the year for me – but I’m still going!

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 colours that reflect the book’s cover design. The ultimate goal? A warm, meaningful blanket that doubles as a literary keepsake.

Here’s what I accomplished in September:

  • Total Books Read: and Squares Completed: 7 / 14

September Reads and Squares

Book 60: Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: A slow-burning, beautifully written piece of historical fiction, Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah follows two estranged sisters who, after their father’s death, finally begin to understand their cold, enigmatic mother. Through the unfolding of a haunting fairy tale rooted in war-torn Leningrad, long-buried family secrets come to light, reshaping everything they thought they knew.

A graphic showcasing Book 60, 'Winter Garden' by Kristin Hannah, featuring the book cover alongside a crocheted square. The background includes a color palette and the hashtag #KCACOUKBookMAL2025.

Book 61: The Tenth Circle by Jodie Picoult

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: This was such a unique book with prose interspersed with comic book strip which I thought was a really interesting way to tell the story. When fourteen-year-old Trixie Stone accuses her ex-boyfriend of raping her, her tightly knit family is thrown into crisis. Her father, comic-artist Daniel, facing dark echoes from his past, and her mother, Laura, a college professor hiding her own affair, both scramble to protect her, even as the worst happens and the police begin to suspect even their own daughter. It’s a gripping family drama about how far parents will go, and what happens when the line between right and revenge blurs.

Graphic for Book 61 in the #KCACOUKBookMAL2025 project featuring the title 'The Tenth Circle' by Jodie Picoult, a crochet square in orange, white, and gray, and a book cover illustration.

Book 62: Liar Liar (DI Helen Grace #4) by M. J. Arlidge

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.75 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: In this instalment, DI Helen Grace faces perhaps her most destructive foe yet – a cold-blooded arsonist whose fiery rampage across the city seems designed not just to kill, but to terrify and obliterate. As homes go up in flames, lives are shattered and the pressure mounts. Helen must navigate bureaucratic roadblocks, mounting public fear and her own inner turmoil to stop the blaze before it consumes more innocents. I’m enjoying working my way through this series, like the others it’s was fast paced with a compelling storyline.

A graphic showcasing Book 62, Liar Liar (DI Helen Grace #4) by M. J. Arlidge, featuring the book cover alongside a crocheted square. The background includes a colour palette and the hashtag #KCACOUKBookMAL2025.

Book 63: Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.75 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: This book had such a promising premise, I enjoyed it but felt like the pacing did slow down in the middle though it was tided up nicely at the end. A seemingly ordinary domestic flight turns unforgettable when a quiet woman dubbed “The Death Lady” stands up mid-air and predicts the manner and age of death for her fellow passengers. As her chilling forecasts begin to come true months later, each passenger is forced to confront fate, free will and how much control we really have over our lives.

A graphic showcasing Book 63, Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty, featuring the book cover alongside a crocheted square. The background includes a colour palette and the hashtag #KCACOUKBookMAL2025.

Book 64: The Maid’s Secret (Molly the Maid #3) by Nina Prose

My Rating: ⭐⭐2.5 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Molly Gray’s life is about to take a dramatic turn. As Head Maid and newly installed Special Events Manager at the grand Regency Grand Hotel, she’s gearing up for her wedding and ready for good things when a reality-TV treasure-hunting show arrives. What seems like a fun appraisal of her grandmother’s trinkets turns into a revelation: a priceless heirloom, an explosion of media attention, and then the prized object vanishes in a daring art heist. Molly and her friends must dive into the past — aided by her grandmother’s hidden diary — to uncover long-buried secrets, reveal the truth of the theft, and protect everything she’s built. Whilst I really loved Molly the Maid from the first book in this latest book I felt that her character (and the other characters in the book) were becoming more caricatures of their former selves – as a consequence I found it a little hard to stay engaged with the story.

A graphic showcasing Book 64, The Maid's Secret (Molly the Maid #3) by Nina Prose, featuring the book cover alongside a crocheted square. The background includes a colour palette and the hashtag #KCACOUKBookMAL2025.

Book 65: You Killed Me First by John Marrs

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐3.5 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Three women, Margot, Anna and Liv, live on the same suburban street, each hiding secrets darker than their glossy exteriors. The novel opens on Bonfire Night with someone bound and gagged within a blazing bonfire, then rewinds eleven months to show how their lives spiralled into murder, betrayal and revenge. With escalating tension, shifting perspectives and unrelenting twists, it asks: who did the killing … and who got killed first? After a great opening chapter I found the intermittent chapters in italics a bit confusing but it does all come together in the end. Not my favourite Marrs book, but a good read all the same.

A graphic showcasing Book 65, You Killed Me First by John Marrs, featuring the book cover alongside a crocheted square. The background includes a colour palette and the hashtag #KCACOUKBookMAL2025.

Book 66: The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #1) by Rick Riordan

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Percy Jackson discovers he’s no ordinary kid but a demigod – the son of the sea-god Poseidon, when he’s accused of stealing the powerful lightning bolt of Zeus. With the help of his satyr friend Grover Underwood and the daughter of the goddess Athena, Annabeth Chase, Percy embarks on a high-stakes quest across America, battling monsters and unravelling ancient myths in a modern setting – all to clear his name and prevent a war among the gods. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. As someone who has always loved Greek and Roman myths it was a really good romp of a story – I’ll probably continue reading the rest of the series at some point.

A graphic showcasing Book 66, The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #1) by Rick Riordan, featuring the book cover alongside a crocheted square. The background includes a colour palette and the hashtag #KCACOUKBookMAL2025.

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 list in my Amazon storefront so you can see all the books in one place: Go to the book list

Looking Ahead to October

As we step into October, I’m excited for more autumn reading and to see how these stories will inspire the next squares in my Crochet Book Blanket. Each book seems to bring its own mood and I’m wondering if I’ll be naturally drawn to books with an autumnal palette? If you’re joining in, don’t forget to share your progress with the #KCACOUKBookCAL2025 hashtag – I love seeing your updates!

What’s the best cosy book that you can think of? I’m always looking for new recommendations – drop yours in the comments 👇.

Stay tuned for next month’s updates. Until then, happy hooking and happy reading!

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P.S. I’d love to stay connected with you so please do sign up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, giveaways, special offers or new pattern releases are available.

Subscribe to the blog:

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.

Bookish Stitches: August’s Book Blanket Progress

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Time for an update on my 2025 Crochet Book Blanket project. The summer holidays bought me some lovely time away with my family, and longer times to read! Anyone else love reading on the beach or lazy holiday mornings reading in bed?

Pin for later:

A collage of book covers and crochet squares representing the August progress of a Book Blanket project, featuring titles like 'The Mystery Guest', 'Eeny Meeny', 'Dark Pines', 'Want to Know A Secret', 'The Wrong Sister', 'Pop Goes the Weasel,' 'The Doll's House'', and 'The Perfect Son'.

That said I’ve had to hustle a little to catch up with my squares for last month as it’s been a busy time of year.

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 colours that reflect the book’s cover design. The ultimate goal? A warm, meaningful blanket that doubles as a literary keepsake.

Here’s what I accomplished in August:

  • Total Books Read: and Squares Completed: 9 / 18

August Reads and Squares

Book 51: The Mystery Guest (Molly the Maid #2) by Nina Prose

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.5 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: I enjoyed catching up with Molly in The Mystery Guest; in this cosy mystery, Molly is now Head Maid at the Regency Grand Hotel, living with her boyfriend Juan Manuel in her grandmother’s apartment. When famed mystery author J.D. Grimthorpe dies unexpectedly during a press event at the hotel, Molly finds herself once again entangled in a murder investigation. As she delves into the mystery, Molly uncovers secrets from her own past, including her childhood connection to Grimthorpe. Although I enjoyed the book I felt like it was a bit more formulaic and predictable than the first book.

Crochet square inspired by the book 'The Mystery Maid' by Nina Prose, featuring vibrant blue, gold and dark blue colours with the book cover displayed alongside.

Book 52: Eeny Meeny (DI Helen Grace #1) by M. J. Arlidge

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: I’ve had some of the Helen Grace books on my shelf for ages, and I’m glad I finally delved in with Eeny Meeny by M.J. Arlidge. The story kicks off with a chilling premise: two people are abducted, locked in a room with a gun and a phone, and forced to choose who will survive. As more victims are found, Detective Helen Grace races against time to uncover the twisted mind behind these crimes. The novel is fast-paced and gripping, with a dark, psychological edge that kept me hooked from start to finish.

Crochet square inspired by the book 'Eeny Meeny' by M J Artlidge, featuring light grey, red and black colours with the book cover displayed alongside.

Book 53: Dark Pines (Tuva Moodyson Mystery #1) by Will Dean

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Dark Pines by Will Dean is an atmospheric thriller that immerses readers in the eerie Swedish forest. Journalist Tuva Moodyson, a deaf woman new to the small town of Gavrik, investigates a series of murders that echo a decades-old case. As she delves deeper, Tuva navigates a web of secrets within the tight-knit community, all while confronting her own fears of the forest. The novel’s strength lies in its richly detailed setting and Tuva’s compelling character, offering a chilling and immersive reading experience. It was definitely more of a slow-burn novel, but it was enjoyable, I feel I’ll read more featuring Tuva Moodyson.

Crochet square inspired by the book 'Dark Pines' by Will Dean, featuring red, light grey, red and black colours with the book cover displayed alongside.

Book 54: Want to Know a Secret by Frieda McFadden

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.5 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Want to Know a Secret? by Freida McFadden was one of the more fun books I’ve read by her. The story follows April Masterson, a YouTube baking sensation who appears to have the perfect life. However, when she starts receiving threatening messages, her seemingly flawless world begins to unravel. The novel delves into themes of deception, secrets, and the complexities of suburban life. It’s a fast-paced read and McFadden’s storytelling and unexpected twists kept me engaged throughout.

Crochet square inspired by the book 'Want to Know a Secret' by Frieda McFadden, featuring pink, light brown and black colours with the book cover displayed alongside.

Book 55: The Wrong Sister by Claire Douglas

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐3.5 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Wrong Sister was a fun holiday read with fast pacing. Tasha and her sister Alice, though alike in appearance, lead vastly different lives. When Tasha and her husband Aaron swap homes with Alice and her husband Kyle for a week, tragedy strikes: Alice is critically injured, Kyle is dead, and a chilling note arrives for Tasha: “It was supposed to be you.” As the investigation unfolds, secrets surface, and Tasha must confront the hidden truths of her family. This was a fun holiday read, with good pacing and some nice twists and turns (thought I guessed some of them).

Crochet square inspired by the book 'The Wrong Sister' by Claire Douglas, featuring Orange, Light Blue and Dark Blue colours with the book cover displayed alongside.

Book 56: Pop Goes the Weasel (DI Helen Grace #2) by M. J. Arlidge

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐3.75 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Trigger warning: abuse and sexual assault. Pop Goes the Weasel is a grisly, gripping thriller that picks up where Eeny Meeny left off. Detective Inspector Helen Grace is once again thrust into a chilling case when a man is found murdered in Southampton’s red-light district, his heart removed and sent to his family. Dubbed a “reverse Jack the Ripper,” the killer targets married men seeking prostitutes, leaving a trail of brutality and fear. As the body count rises, Grace must confront not only a relentless serial killer but also personal demons and professional challenges. With its fast pacing and suspense I enjoyed this sequel as much as the first.

Crochet square inspired by the book 'Pop Goes the Weasel' by Claire Douglas, featuring Teal, Light Grey and Dark Grey colours with the book cover displayed alongside.

Book 57: The Doll’s House (DI Helen Grace #3) by M. J. Artlidge

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐3.75 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Trigger warning: abuse and sexual assault. The Doll’s House is another fast-paced thriller in the series, though it leans more into psychological suspense than overt violence. When a young woman is found buried on a remote beach, Detective Helen Grace uncovers a chilling pattern: the victim had been sending texts to her family years after her death. As she investigates, Grace discovers a twisted serial killer who has been operating under the radar for years. The novel delves into the complexities of the killer’s mind and the emotional toll on the victims’ families. While the pacing remains tight, I found the narrative occasionally heavy on hyperbole. Nevertheless, it’s a compelling addition to the series, offering a deep dive into the darkness of the human psyche.

Crochet square inspired by the book 'The Doll's House' by M J Artlidge, featuring Orange, Light Grey and Teal colours with the book cover displayed alongside.

Book 58: The Perfect Son by Frieda McFadden

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐3.75 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Perfect Son by Freida McFadden was one of the better novels I’ve read by her. The story follows Erika Cass, whose seemingly perfect life unravels when her son, Liam, becomes the prime suspect in the disappearance of a teenage girl. As Erika delves deeper, she uncovers chilling truths about her family and her son’s past. The novel is a fast-paced, easy read that kept me hooked from start to finish.

Crochet square inspired by the book 'The Perfect Son' by Frieda McFadden, featuring Yellow, Sage and Black colours with the book cover displayed alongside.

Book 59: Ward D by Frieda McFadden

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐3 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Ward D by Freida McFadden wasn’t my favourite of hers, and I found the plot a bit convoluted. The story follows medical student Amy Brenner, who is assigned an overnight shift in the hospital’s psychiatric unit, Ward D. As the night unfolds, Amy encounters unsettling events that blur the line between reality and delusion, leading her to confront her own past and the patients she encounters. The novel delves into themes of mental health, trauma, and the complexities of perception.

Crochet square inspired by the book 'Ward D' by Frieda McFadden, featuring Light Teal, Teal and Black colours with the book cover displayed alongside.

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 list in my Amazon storefront so you can see all the books in one place: Go to the book list

Looking Ahead to September’s books

For my next roundup I’m looking forward to sharing more great reads and seeing how they’ll inspire the next squares in my Crochet Book Blanket. Each book brings its own mood and colour palette, and it’s been such fun watching the blanket evolve. If you’re joining in, don’t forget to share your updates with the #KCACOUKBookCAL2025 hashtag.

What’s the best book you’ve read this summer? I’m always looking for new recommendations – drop yours in the comments 👇.

Stay tuned for next month’s updates. Until then, happy hooking and happy reading!

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P.S. I’d love to stay connected with you so please do sign up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, giveaways, special offers or new pattern releases are available.

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Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.

Bookish Stitches: May’s Book Blanket Progress

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May has been another great month in my year-long challenge, and I’m thoroughly enjoying the journey so far! I’m really pleased that I’m keeping up – even if I did have a day where I was just catching up on the squares! It’s all part of the process.

A collection of colorful crochet squares featuring various granny square patterns, arranged on a light surface with a plant, crochet hook, and a cup in the background.

I started strong with some really good books this month, and I’m still absolutely loving combining two of my favourite things, books and crochet, in my 2025 Crochet Book Blanket project.

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A collage of book covers and crochet squares representing the May progress of a Book Blanket project, featuring titles like 'Missing Pieces', 'The Nothing Man', 'The Doctor's Wife', 'All the Colours of the Dark', 'Chocolate Cake with Hitler', 'The Surrogate Mother', and 'Big Little Lies'.

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 colours that reflect the book’s cover design. The ultimate goal? A warm, meaningful blanket that doubles as a literary keepsake.

Here’s what I accomplished in May:

  • Total Books Read: and Squares Completed: 8 books / 16 squares

May Reads and Squares

Book 27: Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: I thoroughly enjoyed Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty. Set in a coastal Australian town, the story follows three women, Madeline, Celeste, and Jane, whose seemingly perfect lives unravel amid schoolyard drama and buried secrets, leading to a shocking event on trivia night. It’s a sharp, insightful look at friendship, domestic struggles, and the facades people wear. I’ll definitely be on the lookout for more by this author.

Graphical representation for Book 27 featuring 'Big Little Lies' by Liane Moriarty, with a crochet square and colour palette.

Book 28: The Surrogate Mother by Freida McFadden

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Surrogate Mother is a gripping psychological thriller about Abby, whose dreams of motherhood are challenged when her assistant Monica offers to be a surrogate. What begins as a hopeful arrangement soon unravels as Monica’s true intentions and hidden motives come to light, leading to a series of unsettling events that threaten to destroy Abby’s dream of motherhood. I’m slowly working my way through all of Freida McFadden’s books as they’re always fun and quick reads!

Image featuring the book cover of 'The Surrogate Mother' by Freida McFadden alongside a crochet square in pink, white, and black colours, labelled as Book 28 in the #KCACOUKBookMAL2025 challenge.

Book 29: The Nothing Man by Catherine Ryan Howard

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Nothing Man is a gripping psychological thriller about Eve Black, the sole survivor of a family massacre who writes a true-crime memoir to unmask the killer known as the Nothing Man. As supermarket security guard Jim Doyle reads her book, he realizes with growing dread that she’s getting closer to the truth – because he is the Nothing Man. Really enjoyed this book, clever storyline and great characters, will definitely be on the lookout for more books by this author.

Image featuring the title, author, and rating of the book 'The Nothing Man' by Catherine Ryan Howard, accompanied by a crochet square in black, red, and white colours.

Book 30: The Doctor’s Wife by Daniel Hurst

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.5 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Doctor’s Wife is a psychological thriller set in an isolated seaside village, centered around Fern and her husband, Dr. Drew Devlin. What seems like an idyllic life unravels when Fern uncovers Drew’s deep-seated deceptions – including misuse of his medical influence and a hidden affair. This would make a great holiday read, quick and easy and enjoyable – I’ll be looking out for more books by this author.

A collage featuring the book cover of 'The Doctor's Wife' by Daniel Hurst, a crochet square, and a colour palette, labeled with the hashtag #KCACOUKBookMAL2025 and a star rating.

Book 31: All the Colours of the Dark by Chris Whitaker

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: All the Colours of the Dark is a character‑driven, dark mystery spanning decades, beginning with the abduction of teenager Patch Macauley and the lifelong quest by his best friend Saint to find him – and the mysterious Grace who shared his captivity. Though I found the pacing of the story a bit slow at times it’s beautifully written all the same.

Promotional image for 'All the Colours of the Dark' by Chris Whitaker, featuring a crochet square and vibrant book cover, along with a rating and project hashtag.

Book 32: Missing Pieces by Laura Pearson

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Missing Pieces follows the Sadler family, shattered 25 years earlier when their toddler Phoebe tragically died – an event that left enduring grief, guilt, and silence. As young Bea prepares to have a child of her own, she returns home seeking the truth about that terrible day and the secret her family has buried. The novel is beautifully written and utterly heart-breaking in places, with particular emotional depth around themes of child loss and suicide – trigger warning advised for those subjects. .

An infographic showcasing Book 32 'Missing Pieces' by Laura Pearson. It features a colourful crochet square, a book cover with a house illustration, and the rating of 4 stars along with the hashtag #KCACOUKBookMAL2025.

Book 33: Chocolate Cake with Hitler by Emma Craige

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐3.5 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Chocolate Cake with Hitler is a haunting historical novel told through the eyes of twelve year old Helga Goebbels, who, alongside her siblings, takes refuge in Hitler’s bunker during the final days of World War II. As bombs fall and the adults’ tension escalates, Helga clings to memories of happier times, all while sensing the grim fate approaching. The story is quite heart-breaking, as it’s based on true events – trigger warning for child death and suicide, as Helga and her siblings are murdered by their mother in a chilling act of fanatic devotion .

Image features a crochet square alongside the book cover for 'Chocolate Cake with Hitler' by Emma Craige. The square uses grey, pink, and black yarn, and the book cover displays a young girl with Adolf Hitler in a historical context.

Book 34: The Last Passenger by Will Dean

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.5 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Last Passenger is a fast paced thriller in which Caz Ripley wakes up aboard the luxury cruise liner RMS Atlantica to discover every other passenger – and crew -has mysteriously vanished. Stranded and alone (or is she), she must unravel a terrifying puzzle filled with psychological tension, unexpected twists, and mounting dread before time runs out. I enjoyed this book, I will definitely be on the look out for more by this author.

A crochet square in teal, yellow, black, and white next to the book cover of 'The Last Passenger' by Will Dean, featuring a lifebuoy in water.

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 list in my Amazon storefront so you can see all the books in one place: Go to the book list

Looking Ahead to June

As we head into June, I’m looking forward to discovering which new stories will shape the next additions to my Crochet Book Blanket. Each book continues to inspire a unique square, and I can’t wait to see how June unfolds in all the different colours. If you’re taking part too, don’t forget to share your progress with the #KCACOUKBookCAL2025 hashtag—I’ve been loving everyone’s updates so far!

What book has been your favourite of the year so far? Let me know in the comments!

Stay tuned for next month’s updates. Until then, happy hooking and happy reading!

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P.S. I’d love to stay connected with you so please do sign up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, giveaways, special offers or new pattern releases are available.

Subscribe to the blog:

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.

Bookish Stitches: April’s Book Blanket Progress

Posted in Blanket, Crochet by

April has been a quieter month for reading, which is totally fine—I’ve read so much earlier in the year that I’m sure it will all balance out in the end! I’m still loving the process of combining two of my favourite things—books and crochet—in my 2025 Crochet Book Blanket project. Each square represents a book I’ve read, and even with fewer additions this month, I feel that the squares for the blanket are coming together beautifully.

A collage featuring book covers for 'The Clan of the Cave Bear', 'The Maid', 'Bright Young Women', 'The Valley of Horses', 'The Mammoth Hunters', and 'Day One'. Surrounding the book covers are colorful crochet squares that represent each book, along with a crocheted blanket and yarn, celebrating the Book Blanket Challenge for April 2025.

This month, I’ve picked up some new-to-me reads, but I also felt drawn to revisit a few favourites I’ve read in the past—books I wanted to include in the blanket because they’ve meant so much to me over the years. I’ve been thoroughly enjoying the re-reads; there’s something so comforting about slipping back into a story you know so well.

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A collage featuring book covers, crochet squares, and colorful books, celebrating the April 2025 Book Blanket Challenge.

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 colours that reflect the book’s cover design. The ultimate goal? A warm, meaningful blanket that doubles as a literary keepsake.

Here’s what I accomplished in April:

  • Total Books Read: and Squares Completed: 6 books read / 12 squares made

April Reads and Squares

Book 21: The Maid by Nina Prose

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Maid follows Molly Gray, a socially awkward but endearing hotel maid who takes pride in keeping everything perfectly clean and in order. Her routine life is upended when she discovers a wealthy guest dead in his room, and her unusual demeanour quickly makes her the prime suspect in the investigation. As Molly tries to clear her name, she uncovers unexpected secrets —and learns more about friendship, trust, and herself along the way. Really enjoyed this charming and cleverly written mystery – I’ll be certainly looking to read the sequel.

Image featuring a crochet square in teal, grey, yellow, and white, along with the book cover of 'The Maid' by Nita Prose, highlighting its title and star rating.

Book 22: The Clan of the Cave Bear (Earth’s Children #1) by Jean M. Auel

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The Clan of the Cave Bear is a prehistoric fiction classic that follows Ayla, a young Cro-Magnon girl who is orphaned and taken in by a group of Neanderthals known as the Clan. As she grows up among them, her intelligence, independence, and differences set her apart. This book is the beginning of a sweeping saga that blends survival, early human history, and emotional depth. It was one of the first fantasy series I got into when I was younger, and I’ve returned to it many times over the years—it never fails to draw me back in.

An image featuring a crochet square with a colourful pattern alongside the book cover of 'The Clan of the Cave Bear' by Jean M. Auel, displaying the title and author's name.

Book 23: The Valley of Horses (Earth’s Children #2) by Jean M. Auel

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: With the 2nd Earth’s Children series we continue with Ayla’s journey as she sets out alone after being cast out from the Clan. Surviving in the harsh wilderness, she discovers a hidden valley where she forms incredible bonds with animals—including a horse and a cave lion—and begins to forge her own path. This book also introduces Jondalar, setting the stage for a powerful connection that will shape the rest of the series. Of all the books in the Earth’s Children series, this one is one of my absolute favourites!

Infographic featuring a crochet square and the book cover for 'The Valley of Horses' by Jean M. Auel. Includes the rating and hashtags related to the crochet and reading project.

Book 24: The Mammoth Hunters (Earth’s Children #3) by Jean M. Auel

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: The next book of the series follows Ayla and Jondalar as they leave the Valley and find shelter with the Mamutoi, a tribe of mammoth hunters. As Ayla begins to form bonds with the group—and catches the attention of another man—tensions rise, testing her relationship with Jondalar and her place in this new world. Full of rich cultural detail, emotional depth, and dramatic twists, this book is a key part of Ayla’s journey. I’m really enjoying re-reading these books—they’re just as captivating now as they were the first time around.

Graphic featuring a crocheted square and the book cover for 'The Mammoth Hunters' by Jean M. Auel, labeled as Book 24 with a star rating.

Book 25: Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Bright Young Women is a gripping reimagining of the Ted Bundy murders, told from the perspective of the women affected by his crimes. When a brutal attack shatters a Florida sorority house, its president, Pamela, joins forces with Tina, a woman whose friend disappeared under similar circumstances. Together, they seek justice and reclaim the narrative from the killer (which I really liked), in a powerful story about the strength of women.

A colourful crochet square displaying a pink and black design alongside the book cover of 'Bright Young Women' by Jessica Knoll, featuring bold yellow and pink graphics.

Book 26: Day One by Abigail Dean

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3 stars (out of 5)

Synopsis: Day One is a psychological thriller set in the idyllic Lake District town of Stonesmere. The story unfolds around a tragic school shooting during a primary school play, leaving the community devastated. At the heart of the narrative is the daughter of a teacher who dies heroically trying to protect her pupils. As the town grapples with grief, conspiracy theorists begin to question the events of that tragic day.

Graphic featuring the title and author of the book 'Day One' by Abigail Dean, accompanied by a crochet square in yellow, white, grey, and black colors, along with star ratings and social media hashtag.

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 list in my Amazon storefront so you can see all the books in one place: Go to the book list

Looking Ahead to May

As we head into May, I’m excited to see what new stories will inspire the next additions to my Crochet Book Blanket. Each book brings its own spark of creativity, and I can’t wait to see how May’s reads will take shape in yarn and colour. If you’re joining in, don’t forget to share your progress using the #KCACOUKBookCAL2025 hashtag—I love seeing how everyone’s blankets are coming together!

Have you ever combined your love of reading with a creative project? Let me know in the comments!

Stay tuned for next month’s updates. Until then, happy hooking and happy reading!

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P.S. I’d love to stay connected with you so please do sign up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, giveaways, special offers or new pattern releases are available.

Subscribe to the blog:

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.

Crochet Meets Reading: My Book Blanket Challenge for 2025 with FREE pattern

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Along, Free Patterns by

If there’s one thing that comes close to my love of crochet, it’s reading. A cosy corner, a warm blanket, a gripping book and a tasty snack is my ultimate definition of bliss! This year, I’ve decided to merge these passions by challenging myself to create a book-related afghan!

I’ve seen these incredible book blankets popping up online, and I’ve always admired the creativity behind them. Usually it’s something like each square, strip, or motif which is used to reflect the books someone’s read throughout the year. It’s such a meaningful way to blend two hobbies, and I couldn’t resist joining in. I also couldn’t resist designing something a little special for it which I’m delighted to share with you today.

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A Pinterest collage featuring the Paperback Patch Square crochet project. The collage includes close-up images of the crochet square, styled with books and yarn in complementary colours. Perfect inspiration for book lovers and crochet enthusiasts alike

Why a Book Blanket?

For me, this project is more than just a way to document my reading—it’s a tangible reflection of the moments spent diving into stories and crafting between chapters. Plus, I wanted to tackle something that felt manageable and personal. A book afghan seemed like the perfect fit.

I’ve always wanted to do something like a temperature blanket, but knew it wouldn’t be something I could realistically keep up with, however I knew I could commit to this project. The flexibility to decide how to represent each book, in my case through coloured motifs, makes this challenge feel less daunting and more exciting.

The book 'We Need to Talk About Kevin' rests beside neatly wound balls of wool in shades that match the book cover's colour palette. The vibrant yarns hint at the creativity behind a book-themed crochet blanket challenge for 2025.

Stashbusting Bonus!

Another reason I’m so excited about this challenge is that it’s the perfect opportunity for a much-needed stash busting session! My yarn stash has grown considerably (okay, maybe a little out of control – maybe you saw my ‘cupboard of doom’ reel on Instagram), and this project will help me whittle it down while creating something beautiful and meaningful. It will feel great to breathe new life into leftover yarns I’ve been holding onto for far too long.

📚 Save as a favourite on Ravelry 📚

The book 'Bridgerton: When He Was Wicked' is displayed alongside beautifully wound balls of wool in colours inspired by the book cover. The coordinated yarns reflect the creativity of a book-themed crochet blanket challenge for 2025.

My Plan

Here’s how I’ll approach the challenge:

  1. Book Selection: For every book I read, I’ll crochet two blocks. The number of blocks will depend on how many books I finish (hopefully, plenty!). I’ll be using Good Reads to track the books I do read this year so I can always catch up if I get a little behind.
  2. Physical: For my challenge I’m just going to use physical books I’ve read. This is not because I’m a book snob, I personally think it’s ‘reading’ however you consume a book, but as I listen to A LOT of audiobooks it could make my blanket HUGE and unmanageable to keep up with.
  3. Block Design: To keep things cohesive, I’ll use the same block pattern throughout the blanket. Scroll down for the free pattern I’ll be using—it’s perfect for this project if you’d like to join in!
  4. Stash Prioritisation: I’ll use yarn from my stash as much as possible, choosing colours that align (as close as possible) with the book’s cover design. I’ll be using this image picker tool to help me select the main colours from the book covers. I’m also going to be using DK (8ply / Light Worsted) for my squares – but the pattern will work with any yarn weight. I’ll be using a maximum of 4 colours for each block.
  5. Synopsis Sharing: With each block, I’ll share a little synopsis of the book I’ve read. So, if you’re looking for some new reading material, you might find inspiration here too!
  6. Coherence: I’ve decided I’m going to keep the centre of each of my blocks ‘white’ to represent the pages of the book, and use 3 other colours picked out from the front cover.
  7. Consistency: I’ll set aside a little time to stay on track! I’m determined to keep up with this challenge! But I feel that making one square after each book shouldn’t be too hard to keep up with?!
  8. Sharing: I’ll share my finished squares and the books I’ve read at the end of each month. For those that love a community crochet-along if you want to join in too then I’ll be using the hashtag #KCACOUKBookCAL2025. I can’t wait to see your squares and what you’ve been reading!

Paperback Patch Granny Square Pattern

Want to take on this challenge with me? The block I’ll be using is simple yet versatile, making it ideal for customisation. Here’s the pattern for you to try:

The pattern below is written just in UK terms but you can view a handy conversion chart here on the blog.

Skill Level: Beginner / Easy

Scroll down for the free version or pick up the ad-free PDF Pattern is available from my pattern platforms below.

Ravelry
LoveCrafts
Etsy
Ribblr

Size: 11cm x 11cm (4.3in x 4.3in)

Hook: 3.5mm (US size E)

Yarn Amounts (for two blocks):

  • White Middle (2 rounds) – 3.6G
  • Rnd 2 – 2.5G
  • Rnd 3 – 3.2G
  • Rnd 4 – 4G

Total approx 14g total for two blocks

STITCH GUIDANCE

  • Chain (ch): Bring yarn over hook from back to front and grab it with hook. Draw hooked yarn through slip knot and onto hook. 
  • Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
  • Half Treble (htr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.
  • Treble (tr): Yarn over, insert hook in  indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook

PATTERN NOTES

You will be working in between the stitches (3tr or 3htr) on as you increase on each round

The book 'The Time Keeper' is displayed alongside a finished crochet square in colours inspired by the book cover. The scene showcases a creative step in the book-themed crochet blanket challenge for 2025.

PATTERN

Make 2.

Rnd 1: With YARN A; 4 ch, sl st to join to form a ring, 6 ch (counts as first tr + 3ch here and throughout),[ 3 tr, ch 3 ] 3 times, 2 tr, sl st to 3rd ch of beg. 6 ch to join. 12 sts, 4 x ch3-sp

Rnd 2: Sl st to the nearest ch3-sp; 1 ch, 1 htr in the ch3-sp, miss next tr,[ (3 tr, ch 3, 3 tr) in the next st, miss next tr, 1 htr in the next ch3-sp] 3 times, miss next tr,[ (3 tr, ch 3, 3 tr) in the next st, miss next tr, sl st to the top of the beginning htr to join. Fasten off YARN A and weave in ends. 24 tr, 4 htr, 4 x 3 ch sps

Rnd 3: Sl st YARN B to any ch3-sp; 2 ch (counts as htr), 2 htr in the same sp, [ miss 3 tr, then in the top of the next htr from the previous round work (3 tr, ch 3, 3 tr), miss 3 tr, 3 htr in the next ch3-sp ] 3 times, miss 3 tr, 3 htr in the next ch3-sp sl st to the top of the beginning htr to join. Fasten off YARN B and weave in ends. 24 tr, 12 htr, 4 x 3 ch sps

Rnd 4: Sl st YARN C to any ch3-sp; 6 ch, 3tr in the same sp [ 3tr in the 2 sps between the htr/tr groups of the previous rnd, (3tr, ch3, 3tr) ] 3 times, 3tr in the 2 sps between the htr/tr groups of the previous rnd, 2 tr in the next ch3-sp, sl st to 3rd ch of beg. 6 ch to join. Fasten off YARN C and weave in ends. 48 sts, 4 x 3 ch-sps

Rnd 5: Sl st YARN D to any ch3-sp; 6 ch, 3tr in the same sp [ 3tr in the 3 sps between the tr’s of the previous rnd, (3tr, ch3, 3tr) ] 3 times, 2 tr in the next ch3-sp, 2 tr in the next ch3-sp, 3tr in the 3 sps between the tr’s of the previous rnd, sl st to 3rd ch of beg. 6 ch to join. Fasten off YARN D and weave in ends.  60 sts, 4 x 3 ch-sps

Crochet pattern chart for the Paperback Patch Granny Square by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK designed for the #KCACOUKBookCAL2025

This is going to be such a fun and meaningful project, and I can’t wait to see how it evolves. Whether you’re a reader, a crocheter, or both, I’d love for you to join me. Let’s crochet our love of books into something beautiful while using up those long-neglected yarns in our stashes!

Let me know in the comments if you’re planning to make a book afghan this year—or if you’ve made one before. Share your tips, tricks, or favourite books! 📚

Happy crocheting and reading, until next time; keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

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P.S. I’d love to stay connected with you so please do sign up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, giveaways, special offers or new pattern releases are available.

Subscribe to the blog:

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.