Episodes

Recent Reads: 5 Fantasy Books + a Novella

Welcome, book friends! If you’d prefer to listen to these reviews, you can check out the full episode on The Bookmarks ‘n Blankets Podcast on your favorite podcast platform or…

Recent Reads: 6 Mystery & Thrillers – Mostly Disappointing New Releases

During the winter, I was in the mood for mysteries and thrillers. I was so excited to get my hands on many new releases. Unfortunately, not all of them lived…

Recent Reads: 10 Romance Books + a Short Story

Over the past two months, I’ve read some funny, romantic, and utterly swoon-worthy novels. Now, it’s time to share my thoughts!

12 Children’s Fantasy Books for Middle Grade March – March TBR Book List

March is the perfect time to embrace your inner child, revisit beloved childhood books, and discover new favorites by diving into middle grade reads for Middle Grade March.

RTR: Reading My Favorite BookTubers’ Best Books of 2024: Part 1

I follow many BookTubers on YouTube. I’ve decided to start a new series where I read their favorite books of 2024 to see what I think of them.

RTR – Pages to Popcorn: First Time Reading Colleen Hoover – It Ends With Us

Colleen Hoover’s books are everywhere—praised, criticized, and now hitting the big screen. With all the buzz, I had to see what the hype was about.

12 Fairytale Retellings I Want to Read – February TBR Book List

Welcome, book friends! If you’d prefer to listen to this book list, you can check out the full episode on The Bookmarks ‘n Blankets Podcast on your favorite podcast platform…

End-of-the-Year Book Tag – 2024 Reading Stats & Answered Book Questions

So how many books did I read in 2024? I’m ready to reveal all my stats from last year and answer the End of the Year book tag questions.

My Best Books of 2024 – All My 5-Star Books & Top 10 Favorites

I read an incredible amount of amazing, compelling novels last year. Now I’m ready to gush about my top favorites of 2024. Come find out which titles were the best…

My Worst Books of 2024 – Novels I DNF’d or Gave 2 Stars

Unfortunately, not every book you pick up will be a winner. There will always be books that just don’t work for a reader. Come find out the worst books I…

15 Highly Anticipated New Books in 2025: ARCs I’m Approved to Read – January TBR Book List

Get ready to explore some exciting upcoming releases for next year! Come find out my top 15 must-read books of 2025—these are the ones I’m thrilled to read and review…

2025 Reading Goals, Podcast Plans & a Personal Life Update

Come find out all of my bookish goals and plans for next year. Plus, I’ll give you a quick update on my personal life.

Real-Time Reactions: 3 New Clean Christmas Romance Books (Plus, a Bonus Short Story!)

It’s one of the most romantic times of the year. This merry season is the perfect time to fall in love. Come find out three brand-new Christmas romance books I’m…

12 Books I Want to Read in 2025 with a Special Guest: My Husband (Who Chooses My TBR)

I’m already planning my must-read book list for 2025. But I’m not doing it alone this year. I have a special guest joining me today.

15 Christmas Books I Want to Read – December TBR Book List

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, which means it’s officially the season for Christmas books! Come find out all the Christmas books I want to read in December.

Real-Time Reactions: 4 More Witchy Fantasy Books (Take Two)

Since my last real-time reactions witchy episode was such a disappointment, I wanted to read some more witchy books to redeem this genre for myself.

12 Cozy Fantasy & Cozy Mystery Books – November TBR Book List

It’s getting cold out there, so it’s time to time to snuggle up and get cozy with some cozy mysteries and cozy fantasies. Come find out all the cozies that…

Real-Time Reactions: 3 Autumn Romance Books (Plus, 2 Bonuses!)

It’s time to fall in love during the autumn season by exploring stories that perfectly capture the atmosphere this time of year. Come find out three seasonal fall romance books…

Fall & Seasonal Holiday Q&A (Plus, Halloween Trivia Questions)

Come get to know me more on a personal level as I answer some more fall and seasonal holiday-related questions to get in the cozy and spooky autumn vibes.

13 Spooky Books Perfect for Halloween

Spooky Season is here and Halloween is right around the corner. Come find out the 13 books that are perfect for this creepy, spooky time of year.

Real-Time Reactions: 4 Popular Witchy Books – Cozy Fantasy & Spooky YA

Welcome, book friends! To listen to my real-time reactions to these books, you can check out the full episode on The Bookmarks ‘n Blankets Podcast on your favorite podcast platform…

Real-Time Reactions: The Twilight Saga by Stephanie Meyer

It’s FINALLY time to read the uber popular Twilight Saga. You can listen to my real-time reactions while I read each book in this series.

10 Books with Dark Academia & Gothic Vibes

Spooky Season is upon us, and I’m ready to dive into some books to celebrate this special time of year. Come find out the 10 books I want to read…

Recent Reads: Mystery & Thriller Books – Part 1

I was able to get my hands on some brand-new releases as well as a few summer thrillers. Come find out what I thought about these eight mystery & thriller…

12 Highly Anticipated Historical Fiction Books I Want to Read

I’m ready to change things up and go back in time with some historical fiction books I’ve wanted to read. Come find out 12 highly anticipated novels I’m excited to…

10 Upcoming New Releases in Late Summer and Early Fall

There are some interesting books coming out in late summer and early fall. Come find out what I’ll be reading soon so I can let you know if they are…

April 2024 Reading Wrap-Up

Welcome, book friends! If you’d prefer to listen to these reviews, you can check out the full episode on The Bookmarks ‘n Blankets Podcast on your favorite podcast platform or…

2024 Mid-Year Freak-Out Book Tag

We are already halfway through the reading year, so I’m doing the ultra-popular mid-year freakout book tag. I will talk about the good, the bad, and the surprising. Come find…

12 Books for Summerween & Christmas in July

I’m mixing up my summer reading list by adding two holidays to celebrate a little early. I’ll be reading some spooky books in honor of Summerween, and then I’ll also…

March 2024 Reading Wrap-Up

March was a huge reading month with lots of titles! Come find out what I thought about all of these books.

16 Books Perfect for Summer and Beach Reads

I’ve lined up 16 fantastic books across various genres that are perfect for summertime. Come find out what I’ll be reading during these warm months!

16 Books Perfect for Spring or Give CottageCore Vibes

If you’re a seasonal reader looking for some springtime books or books that give you cottagecore vibes, then I have the perfect list. Come find out what I plan to…

February 2024 Reading Wrap-Up: Part 2

I’ve got four more books that I read in February to talk about, plus a short story collection. Come find out what I thought about these titles.

11 Highly Anticipated New Releases This Spring & Summer – ARCs I’m Approved to Read

These are 11 NetGalley ARCs that I’ve been approved to read, which are all coming this spring and summer. Come find out which authors’ new books I’m super eager to…

February 2024 Reading Wrap-Up: Part 1

The month of love wasn’t as lovey-dovey as I would’ve liked. There were some amazing books, and then some terrible books. Come find out which books I read in February…

15 Children’s Books Perfect for Middle Grade March

Reconnect with your inner child. Come find out 15 children’s books that are high on my TBR book list for Middle Grade March.

January 2024 Reading Wrap-Up: Part 2

In this episode, I’ll talk about the rest of the books that I read last month. Come find out which titles I read – and four of them are five…

January 2024 Reading Wrap-Up: Part 1

Wow! I had an amazing start to my 2024 reading journey. Come find out all the books I read in January.

15 Romance Books Perfect for the Month of Love

In February, we celebrate Valentine’s Day, so in honor of the month of love, I’ve put together a list of 15 romance books that I want to read. Come find…

15 Books Perfect for Winter

If you’re a seasonal reader and looking for some books set in the winter, then I have the book list for you. Come find out which 15 books I’m excited…

December 2023 Reading Wrap-Up

I finished the year off strong and said goodbye to 2023 with some wonderful Christmas books and a few fantasy books that I had been wanting to read. Come find…

End of the Year Book Tag – 2023 Reading Stats and Answered Book Questions

So how many books did I read in 2023? I’m ready to reveal all my stats from last year and answer the End of the Year book tag questions.

My Top 10 Favorite Books of 2023

I read an incredible amount of amazing, compelling novels this year. Now I’m ready to gush about my top favorites of 2023. Come find out which titles were the best…

My Top 10 Worst Books of 2023 – Novels I DNF’d or Gave Low Ratings

Unfortunately, not every book you pick up will be a winner. Come find out the top ten worst books I read this year.

My Top Favorite 10 Graphic Novels of 2023

I found a new love in reading graphic novels this year. I devoured so many in 2023. Come find out which ten are my top favorites.

Top Book Series I Want to Finish or Start in 2024

There are many, many YA and adult fantasy book series. I also want to check out a few sci-fi, romance, and historical fiction series. Come find out 30 book series…

24 Must-Read Books in 2024 – Books I Want to Read in the New Year

During these past 10 months, I’ve heard about many amazing books, so now my interest has been piqued. Come find out which 24 books are on my must-read list in…

2024 Reading Goals, Plans, and a BIG Life Update

I had an amazing first year of being part of the online book community. Come find out all of my bookish goals and plans for 2024. I’ll also share a…

Bonus: November 2023 Reading Wrap-Up – Graphic Novels & NetGalley ARCs

I read four graphic novels and eight ARCs in November. Come find out what I read and what I thought about them.

November 2023 Reading Wrap-Up – Fiction & Non-Fiction Books

I didn’t get to everything I wanted to read, but I did have a really good reading month with some great books. Come find out what I read in November.

December 2023 TBR Book List – Christmas/Holiday

The holiday season is upon us, and I’m really excited to read a whole bunch of fun, heartwarming holiday books this month. Come find out which books I’ve chosen to…

25 Best Holiday Movies

The holiday season is here, and what better way to bring on the Christmas and holiday cheer than with some favorite seasonal movies? Come find out which holiday films I…

Why Books Are the Perfect Holiday Gifts

The holidays are here, and you may wonder what to get your loved ones this Christmas season. Well, I’m here to tell you 13 reasons why books are the perfect…

Bonus: October 2023 Reading Wrap-Up – Graphic Novels & NetGalley ARCs

I had my biggest graphic novel reading month of the year so far! I read 9 graphic novels and 11 ARCs from NetGalley. Come find out what I thought about…

Bonus: October 2023 Reading Wrap-Up – NetGalley Picture Books

In October, I read eight kids’ picture books. Come find out what I read and thought about them.

October 2023 Reading Wrap-Up

I had another incredible reading month with lots of cozy mysteries, spooky middle grades, graphic novels, and a couple of adult books – a horror and a mystery with some…

November 2023 TBR Book List – Food Fiction & Highly Anticipated Reads

Heading into the final months of the year, I’m excited to finally read some highly anticipated books, along with some food fiction to celebrate Thanksgiving this month.

25 Best Scary Halloween Movies

Welcome, my fellow movie friends! If you’d prefer to listen to this discussion, you can check out the full episode on The Bookmarks ‘n Blankets Podcast on your favorite podcast…

25 Best Non-Scary Halloween Movies

In this episode, I talk about my top favorite 25 non-scary Halloween movies. Come find out if any of your favorites are also my favorites!

Fall & Halloween Q&A | Feeling All the Cozy & Spooky Autumn Vibes

Fall is my favorite season of the year. Come get to know me more on a personal level as I answer some fall and Halloween-related questions to get in the…

Bonus: September Reading Wrap-Up – Graphic Novels & NetGalley ARCs

I read six graphic novels and an amazing 23 ARCs from NetGalley in September. Come find out what I thought about these stories.

Bonus: September 2023 Reading Wrap-Up – NetGalley Picture Books

In September, I read an amazing 14 kids’ picture books. Come find out what I read and thought about them.

October 2023 TBR Book List – Spooky Middle Grade & Cozy Mysteries

It’s that time of year to read some cozy mysteries and spooky middle grade books. Come find out all the books that I’m planning on reading in the month of…

September 2023 Reading Wrap-Up

September was a wild reading month. I read an astounding 35 books!

How to Read Without Getting Distracted

Learn 21 simple, practical ways that you can unplug and immerse yourself even deeper into your stories while you read.

The Ultimate Fall Starter Kit

We have finally made it to the BEST time of year – Fall!!! Come find out my favorite cozy autumnal books, movies, TV series, food, and activities to get you…

25 Best Back-to-School Movies

Grab your lunchbox, backpack, and number two pencils because we are going back to school!

Bonus: August 2023 Reading Wrap-Up | NetGalley ARCs & Graphic Novels

I have six more books I want to talk about that I read in August from my historical fiction reading theme. Come find out what I read and what I…

September 2023 TBR Book List

I don’t know what I was thinking, but I put this month’s book list in the hands of my husband. Did he do me dirty or was he nice about…

August 2023 Reading Wrap-Up

I’ve had my biggest reading month of the year so far. I read an astonishing 13 books. Come find out which ones I read in the month of August and…

2023 Mid-Year Freak-Out Book Tag

I am at the halfway point of MY reading year. I’m going to talk about the good, the bad, and the surprising. Come find out which books I’ve read and…

Book Review: People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry

Two best friends. Ten summer trips. One last chance to fall in love. Come find out what I thought about a wildly popular modern romance book.

The Summer of Broken Rules by K.L. Walther

Meredith’s family’s annual game of Assassin at Martha’s Vineyard during a summer wedding is the perfect chance to honor her sister’s legacy, and finally join the world again. But when…

Book Review – Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch

A summer in Italy turns into a road trip across Tuscany in this sweeping New York Times bestseller filled with romance, mystery, and adventure. Come find out what I thought…

How to Make More Time to Read (and Reading Benefits You Didn’t Know About)

From reducing stress and anxiety to enhancing cognitive function, the benefits of reading go beyond simple entertainment.

August 2023 – Historical Fiction TBR Book List

I’ve got some big titles on my reading list this month. Come find out what reading theme I chose for August and the books in my Pile of Possibilities.

July 2023 Reading Wrap-Up

I read 10 books this month – my biggest reading month so far. Come find out which books I read in July and what I thought about them.

Book Review – The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave

What would you do if you thought you had found the love of your life, and then they disappeared? Come find out what I thought about this domestic mystery/thriller.

Book Review: Gallant by V.E. Schwab

“Everything casts a shadow. Even the world we live in. And as with every shadow, there is a place where it must touch. A seam, where the shadow meets its…

Most Anticipated 2023 Summer Book Releases | Fantasy, Romance, Thriller & YA Titles

Let’s talk about some highly anticipated book releases coming this summer. I have a wide array of titles in many different genres. Come find out which books I’m super excited…

Book Review: Keeper of Enchanted Rooms by Charlie Holmberg

“A house of haunted history and ill temper. Make yourself at home in this beguiling novel of love, magic, and danger.”

Book Review: Fairytale by Danielle Steel

Does good really prevail over evil? Will the truth surface even in the darkest moments? Come find out what I thought about this fairytale retelling.

July 2023 – Summer Vibes/Vacation TBR Book List

I have some of the hottest summer book titles on my reading list this month. Come find out what reading theme I chose for July and the ten books in…

June 2023 Reading Wrap-Up

I read nine books this month – the highest reading month I’ve had so far. Plus, I have a special bonus to share, which was a reading first for me.…

Escape the Heat: 50 Best Summer Movies of All Time

It’s time to pop some popcorn, grab a cold drink, and get comfy cozy with some summer blockbusters to beat the heat! Join me as I review some of my…

Book Review: Mandy

Come find out what I thought about this sweet, wholesome middle grade book by legendary actress, Julie Andrews Edwards.

Book Review: The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

What happens when you feed too much moonlight to a child? Come find out about this cozy, magical story about a witch, a swamp creature, a tiny dragon, an abandoned…

Book Review: Archibald Finch and the Lost Witches

“A boy unlocks an ancient relic – and with it a forgotten world…” Can Archibald help the lost witches, or will he be stuck in this magical world forever?

June 2023 – Mystery & Thriller TBR Book List

Which books are on your reading list this June? Come find out what reading theme I chose for this month and the 10 books on my TBR list.

May 2023 Reading Wrap-Up

May was a mixed reading month, and I DNF’d my first book since joining the online book community. Come find out which books I read this month and what I…

Book Review: Into the Heartless Wood by Joanna Ruth Meyer

“The forest is a dangerous place, where siren song lures men and women to their deaths.” Can Owen resist the monsters that want to feed on him? Or will he…

Book Terms for Newbies | The Secret Language of the Online Book World

Did you know there is an entire secret language to this online book world? If you’re a newbie, like me, you may be confused with all this new lingo. In…

50 Ways to Romanticize Springtime | Spring Self-Care Tips

Spring is here, and there are so many things to do and ways you can take care of yourself during these warmer months. Come find out how you can nourish…

Book Review: Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

Can you really start over in a new city with only a dream?

May 2023 Reading Theme & TBR Book List

Which books are on your reading list this May? Come find out the six stories I have chosen to read!

March & April 2023 Reading Wrap-Up

I’ve read 11 books in just two months! That is the most I’ve ever read in such a short period of time. And I’m excited to share those book titles…

About

Come soak up all the warm, fuzzy feelings! My name is Kelly, and I’m excited to share my thoughts and opinions with you about books, movies, and TV series. I’m also obsessed with all things comfy cozy, self-care, and personal development.

Join me as I snuggle up with my favorite blankets and yummy beverages, and talk about my favorite forms of art.

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