Between The Pages | February 2025 Reading Round Up 

February 2025 has been a month of literary delights, a cozy escape into pages filled with heartwarming stories and surprising twists. I found myself immersed in a diverse range of reads, from a laugh-out-loud Christian rom-com that left me grinning to a truly captivating novel that kept me guessing until the very last page. Get ready to hear about the books that touched my heart, tickled my funny bone, and left me uttering a surprised “No way!” at a twist I absolutely did not see coming. Join me as I dive into my February reading roundup, where I’ll share all the details of these unforgettable stories.

The Cupcake Dilemma: A Rock Creek Romance Novella  by Jennifer Rodewald (via Kindle Unlimited)

From Amazon: My name is Kirstin Hill. I’m a simple girl trying to figure out life in a small town. There are a few things you should know about me before we begin. I grew up in the city. I’m a teacher, a first-year teacher (some of you understand that significance). And finally, when it comes to cooking, I’m a disaster. Maybe none of those things seem story worthy, but trust me—I have a story. I call it The Cupcake Dilemma, and it literally changed my life. How? I’m glad you asked.

It all started with an extra assignment delegated to me at school right before Valentine’s Day… But before we get too far, let me begin by stating this clearly. I was voluntold.

Miss Potterton’s Birthday Tea: by Amanda Prowse (via Kindle Unlimited)

“Miss Potterton’s Birthday Tea” by Amanda Prowse is a short story that captures a poignant moment in the life of an elderly woman. It delves into themes of loneliness, memory, and the simple yet profound significance of human connection. The story centers around Miss Potterton’s birthday, an occasion that prompts her to reflect on her past and confront her present isolation.

Prowse masterfully portrays the quiet struggles of aging and the yearning for companionship, highlighting how even a small gesture of kindness can bring immense joy. The narrative emphasizes the importance of cherishing life’s fleeting moments and recognizing the value of human interaction, especially for those who may feel overlooked.

Essentially, it’s a touching exploration of the emotional landscape of aging, delivered with Amanda Prowse’s signature emotional depth.

Mr Portobello’s Morning Paper (via Kindle Unlimited): A heart-warming short story about new friends and missed connections b by Amanda Prowse (via Kindle Unlimited)

Amanda Prowse’s “Mr. Portobello’s Morning Paper” explores the unexpected turns life takes, even when dreams come true. Having achieved her long-held ambition of owning a second-hand bookshop after leaving her teaching career, Sophia Perkins finds herself grappling with a sense of unease despite her newfound freedom. Still navigating the recent loss of her parents, Sophia’s life is enriched by the daily presence of Mr. Portobello, the shop’s previous owner.

Their unlikely friendship becomes a source of profound self-discovery for Sophia, as the eccentric elderly man prompts her to re-evaluate her life, decisions, and grieving process. Through their connection, Prowse beautifully illustrates how pursuing one’s desires doesn’t always guarantee happiness and that true fulfillment often lies in the unexpected connections we forge.

The story serves as a gentle reminder that sometimes, the things we think we want most reveal hidden truths about ourselves, and that the most meaningful lessons can be learned from the most unexpected of friendships.

A Day Like This: by Kelley McNeil (via Kindle Unlimited)

Kelley McNeil’s “A Day Like This” plunges readers into a disorienting reality where Annie Beyers’ idyllic life vanishes in the blink of an eye. Imagine waking from a car accident to discover your cherished daughter never existed, your loving marriage is fractured, and years of your life have been erased. Annie’s world is shattered, replaced by a strange, unfamiliar present that clashes with her vivid memories.

As her past and present collide, Annie is haunted by visions of a life that no longer exists, fueling her suspicion that everyone is deceiving her. Driven by a desperate need to understand, she embarks on a journey to reconcile her fragmented memories with her altered reality, seeking the truth behind the life she’s now living and the love she’s lost.

“A Day Like This” is a compelling exploration of grief, identity, and the fragile nature of reality as Annie struggles to reconcile the life she remembers with the life she’s living, ultimately seeking the truth hidden beneath the surface of her fractured existence.

And there you have it, my February reading adventures! From the heartwarming chuckles of Christian rom-coms to the mind-bending twist of that final, unforgettable novel, this month’s books have truly run the gamut of emotions. I hope you found a title that piqued your interest and maybe even inspired you to pick up a new read.

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