It’s been raining almost every day in Manila lately. That kind of steady, moody rain that makes traffic worse and afternoons feel softer. And honestly? I’ve been using it as an excuse to stay in when I can, because life’s been nonstop. I’m juggling three jobs, running a business, and trying to keep up with all the things that somehow land on my plate each week.
Somewhere along the way, I noticed I couldn’t sit with a book anymore. I’d open one, read a page, then check my phone. Scroll. Close it. Come back later, try again. My brain was too scattered. But I miss that feeling of being completely lost in a story… of reading not because it’s productive, but because it’s good.
So this month, I’m forcing myself to make space for it again. Not in a pressure-y, “you must finish this book in one sitting” way but in a small, real way. A few pages before bed. A chapter with my morning coffee. Something that grounds me. Something that’s just for me.
If you’re feeling the same, if your attention span’s fried or you’re just plain tired (lol), here are a few books we’re loving this month.
“Atmosphere” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Genre: Historical Romance
Classic TJR. You open it thinking it’s about space and end up staying for the love story, the ambition, the heartbreak.
It’s big and soft at the same time, like a romance that’s not just about the couple, but about the whole world they’re trying to survive in.
Perfect if you want something emotional, immersive, and way too good to put down.
“Never Thought I’d End Up Here” by Ann Liang
Genre: YA Romantic Comedy
Light, fun, and just the right amount of nerdy.
It’s academic rivals-to-lovers, with a speculative twist that keeps it from feeling like every other YA romcom.
Smart enough to enjoy as an adult, easy enough to fly through in one sitting.
Read this when you want to smile, escape, and not overthink it.
“Killer Potential” by Hannah Deitch
Genre: Psychological Thriller
This one starts with a murder and just goes off from there, in the best way.
Two women on the run, messy choices, sharp dialogue, and just enough dark humour to keep it fun.
It’s chaotic, a little unhinged, and honestly? Kind of addictive.
“What If I Never Get Over You” by Paige Toon
Genre: Chick Lit
If you’ve ever replayed old texts in your head or wondered what might’ve happened if things went differently, this one hits.
It’s about love that lingers, choices that stay with you, and the kind of friendships that hold it all together.
Nostalgic without being cheesy, romantic without being over the top. Just a solid, heartfelt read that feels a little too real in the best way.
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Upcoming Releases:
For: Fans of cottagecore, gentle fantasy, and warm storylines that don’t ask too much of you.
For: The curious and the quiet-hearted, those who still believe in magic, even in the middle of real life.
For: The thrill-seekers who want a fast-paced YA mystery they can tear through in one weekend.
Candid Club 
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