January Reads: How I Fell in Love with Books at 38

Let me start by saying this: I’m 38 years old, and until recently, I didn’t think I’d ever be someone who loves to read. Growing up, I struggled to focus on books because of my ADHD and ADD. Self-help books were the only ones I could dabble in, but even those were hard to finish.

Everything changed when I decided to give romcom books a try. Since I adore Hallmark movies and romantic comedies, I figured, why not try reading something similar? So December 2024, I did some research, found a few Christmas-themed books to start with (Tis’ The Season) —and I was instantly hooked!

Now, I read every night instead of watching TV. It’s been incredible for my anxiety, helping me relax and wind down without that stressful blue light. I feel more peaceful, less short-tempered, and honestly, more me. Reading has become my favorite form of self-care, and I’m so excited to share my January reading list with you!

January TBR (To-Be-Read) List

Here are the books I’ll be reading this month, along with links so you can join me.

1. Wyatt by Jessica Peterson

Why I’m excited: A cowboy romance full of humor and heart—sounds like the perfect cozy read.

2. Lost and Lassoed by Lyla Sage

Why I’m excited: This Western romance caught my attention with its mix of love and adventure.

3. Swift and Saddled by Lyla Sage

Why I’m excited: Continuing Lyla Sage’s series with another charming cowboy story.

4. Done and Dusted by Lyla Sage

Why I’m excited: The final book in this series, tying up all the cowboy romance drama.

5. Secretly Yours by Tessa Bailey

Why I’m excited: Tessa Bailey is a romcom queen, and this one promises to be swoony and spicy.

6. Exes & O’s by Amy Lea

Why I’m excited: A second-chance romance that’s perfect for kicking off the new year.

7. So Not Meant to Be by Meghan Quinn

Why I’m excited: A laugh-out-loud romantic comedy with quirky characters—right up my alley.

What You’ll Find Here

I’ll be updating this blog post throughout January as I read each book. I’ll share my thoughts, reviews, and photos of my favorite moments from the stories. So, be sure to check back often or follow along with me on Instagram/TIK TOK for real-time updates! Better yet- Let’s be friends on Goodreads.

Why Reading Has Been Life-Changing for Me

In just a month, reading has become such a game-changer for my mental health and overall happiness. Here’s what I’ve noticed:

• Less Anxiety: Getting lost in a story helps me forget the stress of the day.

• Better Sleep: Swapping TV for a book before bed helps me fall asleep faster and sleep deeper.

• More Patience: I’m calmer and more grounded, even in hectic moments.

• Daily Joy: There’s nothing like curling up with a cozy blanket and a great book—it’s my favorite “me time.” Since it’s winter time- bubble baths and books have been my recent obsession. ULTIMATE COMBO!

The Benefits of Reading

If you’re on the fence about reading, here are some fun facts that might convince you to give it a try:

• Reading can reduce stress by up to 68%, according to a study by the University of Sussex.

• It strengthens your brain and improves memory.

• Fiction books, like romcoms, can increase empathy by letting you see life through someone else’s perspective.

• It’s a great way to take a break from screens, which is so important for mental health.

Pair Your Reading with Cozy Vibes

Books and comfort go hand in hand, and nothing pairs better with a good story than a warm bowl of soup. Check out my Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe for the ultimate cozy night in—it’s easy, delicious, and perfect for winter! Or, if you’re looking for ways to make January extra fun, head over to my January Bucket List for inspiration.

Let’s Chat

Have you read any of these books? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts! And if you have recommendations for my February reads, please share them. I’m always on the hunt for new favorites-especially being a newbie- I’m clueless.

FTC Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a book through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my blog—it allows me to keep creating content like this!

Reading has been such a gift for my soul, and I hope this post inspires you to pick up a book and join me on this journey. Here’s to a January filled with great stories, cozy vibes, and lots of self-care.

XOXO, Ashton

JANUARY BOOK REVIEWS

1. Wyatt by Jessica Peterson

Okay- So I ended not reading this because come to find out this is part of the Lucky River Ranch Series- So what I did read was CASH which is book 1. (Book review at the bottom)

3. Done and Dusted by Lyla Sage

REVIEW: 5⭐️ 🌶️ 3 –This is the 1st book in the Rebel Blue Ranch series. OHHHH THIS BOOK!!!! Lyla Sage does such a good job at making you fall in love with the characters and the town and the family! This was brothers best friend book and let me tell you- IT WAS SPICY!!!! SPICYYYYY HOT! Emmy and Brooks Love for each other was just amazing- truly- and the way he always stood up for Emmy melted my heart! 10/10- would read 10000 more times! This was my first ever cowboy romance- and let me tell you- Cowboy Take me away!

4. Swift and Saddled by Lyla Sage

REVIEW: 4⭐️ 🌶️ 3 – This is the 2nd Book in the Rebel Blue Ranch Series- where do I even begin. Wes. Wes has the kindest heart I’ve ever seen on this planet- instantly feel in love with him. This whole series, this storyline, this family- makes me want to jump in a book. Wes loves so deeply and it’s amazing! I love getting to know this family- I want to crawl in the book and be friends with every character.

3. Lost and Lassoed by Lyla Sage

REVIEW: 4⭐️ 🌶️ 3- As you know I’m a newbie reader so I’m definitely figuring out what styles of writing I like and don’t like and what I can tell you is I LOVE Lyla Sages writing. This is an enemies to lovers- and the tension is SO HOT!!!! This book would be my 2nd favorite out of this series- seeing these characters all come together was amazing! Him giving her a shower when she was sad— ughhh my heart melted! Cannot wait to read the 4th book in the series!

5. Secretly Yours by Tessa Bailey

REVIEW: 3⭐️ 🌶️ 2-This book was sweet and I absolutely loved how wholesome Hallie was. She was just such a sweet and down to earth girl. Julian- being honest- annoyed me 99% of the book- his dominatrix were giving Christian Grey- and honestly maybe I’m being dramatic- but I think I just didn’t like the guy personally. I’m excited to read more of Tessa Bailey books- but this one wasn’t a fav. They do have a pen pal moment- and she owns a flower shop so I think it would be cute for Valentines.

6. Exes & O’s by Amy Lea

REVIEW: 2⭐️ 🌶️ 1- I feel so in love with Trevor, Trevor at the end said all the right things! Emma annoyed me alot because she appeared to be possessive and clingy (so much so 10 guys dumped her for it) and has a crush and dirty dreams about Trevor but then yet she is telling him to try to talk to an ex-make it make sense- and when telling him she had no emotions of jealous. The concept and storyline was cute but the in-betweens I struggled with. The spicy was like a 1- didn’t describe much- just said how Emma felt the whole time. Trevor who hated love ended up falling hand over heals for her and doing all these grand gestures and she was so blah about it- ANNOYED ME SO HARD. That’s what she wanted in every relationship!

BONUS BOOKS I READ:

Cash by Jessica Peterson

REVIEW: 4 ⭐️ 🌶️ 3 – I deff struggled getting through this one at the begginging- but I’m not one to quit a book- so I powered through and I am glad a did- the 2nd half of the book was my favorite- It was sweet and happy, and so amazing to see Cash’s heart. I’m a sucker for a book with a happy ending- I would have given it 5 stars if the first half didn’t bore me so much! Excited to read the 2nd one- Wyatt & look forwarded to the next released book at Lucky River Ranch.

2. Pen Pal by J.T. Geissinger

REVIEW: 4 ⭐️ 🌶️ 4 – Where do I even begin- This book has my head SPIRALING- I was bamboozled! I thought I was getting a dark romance considering the cover- but it was like a thriller & (I don’t want to spoil it for you). I did love the writing style and the author alot though-looking forward to reading more of hers. But this book is exactly why you cannot judge a book by its cover! This book is SPICY!

3. Off to the Races by Elsie Silver

REVIEW: 2⭐️ 🌶️ 3 – I am not the type to not finish a book- I loved the characters so much I think what did it for me- NOW DO NOT MAKE FUN OF ME- when they say its a Gold Rush Ranch book- the horse is like the 2nd main character. I’m not a super fan of movies or shows that involve animals- I always feel like they are being tortured during the filming- well this book is about a horse racing ranch- I HAVE NEVER ATTENDED A ANIMAL TYPE OF RACE. Soooo this book and I can tell this series won’t be my favorite- but book Tok recommend and I thought I would try. Haven’t decided if I’m going to finish the series. Spicy was spicing. I love the writing- it wasn’t that- it was a me problem.