The Books I Read, the Gifts I Got, and the Cozy Chaos That Was July
My July wrap-up includes cozy mystery book mail, summer reads, a birthday book haul, and my favorite (and least favorite) reads from June and July.
July was... a lot. In the most chaotic-cozy way possible. There were flops (sorry to some of those books), some total slay-age (looking at you, Vera Wong), book mail that made me gasp, and a surprise birthday party that made me cry in the best way. So before we dive into August with our tote bags full of library books and iced coffee, here’s a wrap-up of everything I got up to in my cozy corner of the internet this month.
📖 1. Books That Slayed and Some That Just… Flopped
📺 Watch the video | 📬 Read the blog
This was my June & July reading recap—and let’s just say, it was a mixed bag. From 5-star bangers like Vera Wong’s Guide to Snooping on a Dead Man to books that made me question my life choices, I covered it all.
I also get personal in the blog version, talking about how this summer didn’t exactly go to plan (because when does it ever?). If you’re looking for honest bookish thoughts and a little life update, this one’s for you.
🕵️♀️ 2. Cozy Crimes & Autumn Vibes | 2025 Mystery Releases I Can’t Wait For
📺 Watch the video | 📬 Read the blog
This one is all about those fall mystery releases that are giving major pumpkin-scented potential. I go full cozy-crime-mode and share the upcoming books that already have a spot saved on my TBR (and my bookshelf, let’s be honest).
If you need an early fall fix or just want to know what to pre-order, check this out.
📦 3. Surprise Book Mail from Cozy Mystery Authors!
This was SUCH a joy to open. I had no idea I was going to receive bookish love from three incredible cozy mystery authors, and this box was pure serotonin.
Inside:
The Deep End by Julie Mulhern (yes, please to swimming pool sleuthing)
Bundle of Trouble by Diana Orgain (murder + mom life = relatable)
Merit Badge Murder by Leslie Langtry (Girl Scout troop leaders gone rogue?? I’m IN.)
Plus tea, a tea infuser, and a mug with their book covers. Bookish love language, activated.
🎂 4. Birthday Book Haul + Cozy Gifts I’m OBSESSED With!
Okay, this video made me a little weepy. My husband and kids put together a book-themed gift basket that was perfect, and my friend Cait threw me the coziest surprise birthday party—with a crocheted book tapestry that made my jaw drop. I go through everything in the video, so if you want a little peek into what fills my heart (and my bookshelves), this one’s a must-watch.
🧁 That’s a Wrap (and a Haul and a Hug)
Thanks for following along this month! If you missed anything, now’s the time to catch up. And if you’ve watched/read every single one of these… please know I would absolutely share my cozy birthday cupcakes with you. 🧁
Coming in August: more cozy content, a new book haul, some writing updates, and maybe a secret project reveal. 😏 Stay tuned, and stay cozy.
Xoxo,
Courtny