Mid-Year Book Freak Out Tag

We are already halfway through 2026 and time is going by too fast. I can honestly say this is probably my worst reading year I've had in a long time. It's not that I'm reading bad books, I've just been extra slumpy recently. I don't know what's been going on but I'm trying to get caught up with my reading... pretty sure I am two books behind on my reading goal.

I try to do this tag every year, this year being no exception regardless of the crappy reading I've been doing.

Best Book Of 2026 So Far

Rose In Chains by Julie Soto

I think it's safe to say I might be obsessed with Dramione fanfictions. I am dying to get to the second book in this series. I truly could not put this book down. I am obsessed. I also really love that the main characters still have yet to get together. This book has me yearning for the moment that they connect romantically.

Best Sequel Of 2026

Play Along by Liz Tomforde

This is my favorite book in the Windy City series. I have no notes. This book was perfect. I love Isaiah, he is definitely my favorite male main character in this entire series.

New Release You Haven’t Read Yet But Want To

Rites Of The Starling by Devney Perry

I really loved Shield of Sparrows and I'm really wanting to get to the second book. I do need to do a reread of the first book so I can make sure I haven't forgotten anything though.

Most Anticipated Release For The Second Half Of The Year

My Darling Reverie by H.D. Carlton

I need this book yesterday. My Dreadful Darling was left on a crazy cliffhanger and I need answers now! I am ready to see the chaos Dreadful causes when he finds out what happened.

Biggest Disappointment

Losers Part 2 by Harley Laroux

I really love the novella, The Dare. I really wanted to love the two full-length novels that came after it. Unfortunately, this was not it for me. These books were too long and couldn't keep me captivated in the story.

Biggest Surprise

Hunt The Villain by Rina Kent

I love Rina Kent's writing so much. I honestly was expecting this book to be a four-star read because that's what I typically rate her books. She is making her way up to being one of my all-time favorite authors!

Favorite New Author (Debut or New To You)

God Of Fury by Rina Kent

I'm gonna give this one to Rina Kent. I am currently reading God Of Fury right now and I'm loving it! She is definitely a God-tier author for me.

Book That Made You Cry

Sadly, there has not been a book that has made me cry this year. I am still looking for that emotional book that is going to rip me to shreds. Please recommend your favorites 😅

Book That Made You Happy

Things We Left Behind by Lucy Score

This whole series is a hit for me. Lucy Score's books are always going to make me feel happy, even though there are times where they make me sad as well. I love a book that can do both!

Most Beautiful Book You've Bought So Far This Year

Half City by Kate Golden

I used to have Fairyloot and recently canceled my subscription. Before I canceled, I did get their edition of Half City by Kate Golden and it's absolutely stunning. I wish it made sense to keep Fairyloot... I just don't see the point of keeping a special edition box when all books come out with pretty sprayed edges and are a little bit cheaper.

What Books Do You Need To Read Before The End Of The Year

The Sword Of Kaigen by M.L. Wang

Dire Bound by Sable Sorensen

Beautiful Venom by Rina Kent

Hide And Seek by Sheridan Anne

Court Of Nightmares by K.A. Knight

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Disclosures:
This post contains links to Amazon where I am an affiliate. If you purchase a book using my links from this page, I would gain a small percentage of that sale.

All reviews are always my opinion. I do not get paid to review books or give good reviews. There will be times where books are provided for my honest review. I will always indicate whether a book was provided to me for review.