A Behind-the-Scenes Look at My Monthly Reading Process

Since returning from my extended blogging break—thanks to the beautiful (and busy!) chapter of new motherhood—I’ve been rediscovering my reading rhythm. One of the most common questions I get is:
“How do you balance reading for fun with all the review requests?”

The answer? Structure, intention, and a little flexibility.

My Monthly Cap: 8 Books Max

To keep things manageable, I cap my monthly reading list at eight books. That gives me space to:

• Read and review books with care
• Create blog content and special features
• Cross-post archived reviews from my previous website (now decommissioned)
• And most importantly—enjoy reading, not rush through it

This rhythm helps me stay consistent without stretching myself too thin.

My Review Sources: Where the Books Come From

Each month, I aim for a thoughtful mix of review commitments and personal picks. Here’s a closer look at how that breaks down:

📩 Email Review Requests

I receive most of my review requests directly through email, and since I’ve just resumed my blog, I’m working through a backlog. I make it a priority to feature at least one of these older requests per month. These often become paperback giveaways on the blog—a small thank-you to authors who supported my platform by sending physical copies.

📚 NetGalley

I also aim to review at least one NetGalley title monthly. It’s a platform I deeply value, and I want to stay relevant and active there by supporting both indie and traditional releases.

✨ Reedsy Discovery

Another platform I love is Reedsy Discovery, where I choose one newly added title each month. It’s a great space to find rising voices and debut authors who are often flying under the radar.

🎧 Audiobooks

One of the more recent additions to my monthly reading rotation is audiobooks—whether through Audiobookworm Promotions or personal purchase. These are especially helpful during busy or hands-free moments, and they add variety to my reading experience.
While some audiobooks are strictly for fun, the majority fall into the self-development category, including topics like:

• Emotional intelligence
• Leadership & women’s empowerment
• Project management
• Animal behavior & wellness
• Fitness, mindfulness, and financial success

Listening to these helps me continue growing—not just as a blogger, but as a woman, a mother, and a professional.

🛍 Personal Picks

I always make space for a book I’ve purchased myself—usually something from my favorite genres like mystery, crime, or fantasy. I’ll often choose titles from a subscription service like LitRing or Booktrovert, or a fellow indie author, and it’s important to me to support the book community however I can. I never hesitate to buy a book simply because I’m excited to read it.

A Typical Month at a Glance

Here’s how a typical reading month might look for me:

• ✅ 1–2 email review requests (including a backlog pick)
• ✅ 1 NetGalley read
• ✅ 1 Reedsy Discovery title
• ✅ 1 audiobook (self-help or for fun)
• ✅ 1 personal TBR pick
• 🔄 2–3 flexible slots (used for giveaways, buddy reads, surprise arcs, or creative mood picks)

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Final Thoughts

Balancing review requests and personal reads takes some intention, but for me, the variety keeps things fresh. It’s easy to feel pulled in all directions as a book blogger, especially when you care deeply about supporting authors and platforms. But by setting a monthly structure and staying aligned with my values, I’m able to show up consistently—without sacrificing the joy of reading.