November Reading Recap: Books, Thoughts & Bookish Highlights

 

November Reading Recap Overview

November was a wonderful month for reading, filled with a mix of anticipated ARCs, delightful new discoveries, and a few unexpected reads that challenged my usual tastes. Whether you follow for book recommendations, honest reviews, or just to keep up with the latest bookish buzz, this recap will share everything you need to know from this month’s literary adventures.

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Books I Read This Month

Bianca's Cure ARC (to be released February 10,2026)

A Million Miracles ARC (Released November 12,20260

Near Death ARC (Released November)

An Unwitting Match ARC (Released 2025)

Where We Belong ARC (To be released April 2026)

 Her Christmas Rescue ARC (Released November 2025)

The Courtship Trap ARC (Released July 2025)

The Hidden Lord ARC ( Released November 20,2025)

Spring Rain ARC(Released April2,2025)

A Scandal Changes Everything ARC (To be released January 2026)

The Shadows of Stormcliffe Hall ARC (originally released in 2008 but now being rereleased)

Lady Ludmilla"s Accidental Letter 

Ghost of Spirit Bear (2008)

Lady Averly's Guide to Guile and Peril ARC (Released November 18)

To Forge Her Fate

A Proper Governess

The Rules of Courtship

A Decret Correspondence

Aong of the Forgotten ARC (To Be Released December 21,2025)

What Worked and What Didn’t

November was a heavy month for ARCs. I was really happy to have been able to read some amazing upcoming titles.

• I tried to find books to tie in with my month's theme, Remembrance Day, but was only able to fit 2 titles in. A Million Miracles and Her Christmas Rescue. I read a lot of Regency Romance this month. It seemed to be what most of the authors needed reviewers for this month.

• I am shaken by the fact that, gulp, don't come for me, Variations by Rebecca Yaras was one of my DNF. I read a ton of reviews to see if I had gone totally mad, but I found this particular book is a love it or hate it book. It had people all over the 5-star and many who gave it 2. I read the first 5 chapters and had to give up. I usually know within the first few chapters if I hate something so I DNF it rather than leaving a scathing review.

• November found me curled up with my Kindle on several bleak days. I also found that there were several books that kept me reading late into the night just because they were that good.

• I tried to clear out as many ARCs as possible in November because I know that December will be full of Christmas preparations. I hope to have my December tbr filled with cosy Christmas stories.

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ARC Releases & Anticipated Titles

November brought some exciting ARC reads with upcoming release dates that I can’t wait to share. A Million Miracles and Where We Belong were two of my favourites.

Notable Bookish Happenings in November

Kindle Inserts: What can I say? I fell deeply down that rabbit hole. I spent hours scouring Pinterest for examples of what other Kindle Girlies were doing, then several more on Creative Fabrica looking for images to use. 

November is when a lot of my favourite content creators start setting up their new reading journals. I, of course, have mine, not started at all, but I'm brimming with ideas.

I spent some time thinking about any reading challenges I am interested in participating in this year. I was tempted to try the magical readathon, but it seemed very involved for me. I did join the Ghosty Goobers Discord channel, so I will get the information for the 2026 run. I am also going to try to do the Goodreads challenge. Are you doing any challenges next year? Let me know in the comments below.

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Final Thoughts on November Reads

That was my November. I am content with the variety of books I was able to read. There seems to be another Glen Cooper for me to read every month, and I feel like it balances out all the sugary romance I read. There is nothing left to do now except print off my month-end wrap-up on Storygraph and get it in my reading journal. Fingers crossed that I can squeeze December in there as the pages are dwindling quickly.

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Thank you for visiting My Grandma’s Teacups November Reading Recap! I hope you found some inspiration for your own book pile or added some must-reads to your wishlist. As always, I'd love to hear about what you’ve been reading, so drop your November favourites or thoughts in the comments below!

Happy reading!

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Unlock Creative Reading Magic: DIY Magnetic Bookmarks Tutorial for Book Lovers (Two Easy Styles!)

 How to Make Magnetic Bookmarks: Two Creative Styles to Try

If you're a book lover or papercrafter, magnetic bookmarks are a fantastic project to add some charm and functionality to your reading experience. Today, we're diving into making two popular types that you can customise and even sublimate for a personal touch. Whether you want a folded-over magnet bookmark or a layered cardstock and vinyl style with hidden magnets, this tutorial will walk you through the supplies, steps, and tips to create beautiful and practical magnetic bookmarks. Plus, they make the perfect gifts or craft fair items!

What You’ll Need

For Both Styles:

• Magnetic strips or magnetic dots (thin, flexible magnets work best)

• Cardstock (choose thickness based on preference, typically 80 lb to 110 lb works well)

• Scissors or paper trimmer

• Adhesive (strong glue or double-sided tape)

Additional for Folded Magnet Bookmark (Sublimation-friendly):

• Sublimation printable sheets or sublimation paper

• Heat press or iron for sublimation

• Printer compatible with sublimation ink

Additional for Cardstock & Vinyl Top Layer Bookmark:

• Printable or illustrated cardstock image

• Adhesive vinyl sheet (clear or matte)

• Laminating sheets or clear contact paper

• Scoring tool or bone folder

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Style 1: Folded Over Magnet Bookmark (Perfect for Sublimation)

This style uses a long, narrow magnetic strip that is folded over, creating a magnet inside that holds the bookmark onto your page securely. The best part is that you can sublimate your own beautiful designs onto the outside for fully custom bookmarks. You can purchase sublimation blanks (easier and cheaper) or printable magnetic sheets.

Step 1: Design and Print Your Sublimation Image

Create a design sized to roughly 2 inches wide by 3.5 inches tall (adjust as needed). Use your favourite graphic software or ready-made designs. Print your design onto sublimation paper using sublimation ink.

Step 2: Sublimate the Design onto the Magnet.

Use a heat press or iron on low heat to transfer the sublimation design onto the magnet or magnetic blank. Make sure to protect your press and work surface with parchment paper or a Teflon sheet.

Step 4: Fold Over and Insert Magnet

Once the design is cooled, fold the magnet in half lengthwise so the design is outside on both sides, mirrored. Press firmly and let dry.

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Style 2: Cardstock Image with Vinyl and Magnets

This style gives you the look of a printed or illustrated bookmark with a protective vinyl finish. The bookmark folds in half with a magnet under each half to keep it closed and grip your page.

Step 1: Create Dual Images Right Side Up

Prepare two mirrored images that will become the front and back of your bookmark. They must be printed mirrored with the top of the image towards the centre on each half, so when folded, both sides appear correct. Create your image, then create a mirrored copy on top of it. Be sure they are perfectly aligned. Separate the images by about 2cm and use a rectangle to join them. When everything is in place, weld the shapes together. You can use the print then cut feature on your cutting machine, or just use a ruler and craft knife to cut them out.

Step 2: Print on Cardstock and Cut

Print your artwork on cardstock using an inkjet or laser printer. Cut to size — a good dimension is around 2 inches wide by 4 inches tall.

Step 3: Apply Vinyl Protective Layer

Cover each side of the cardstock image with clear adhesive vinyl or laminate for durability. This also gives a smooth finish and protects against spills. You can also use holographic vinyl if you're feeling the need for extra sparkle.

Step 4: Score and Fold Bookmark

Using a scoring tool or bone folder, score the cardstock down the middle to get a crisp fold. Fold carefully to align the two sides perfectly.

Step 5: Attach Magnets

Attach thin circular or strip magnets on the inside underside of each half of the folded bookmark. Use adhesive-backed magnets or glue if necessary. Ensure the magnets are placed so they attract and hold the bookmark closed. (The best way to do this is to attach one magnet where you want it with glue or a glue dot, then attach the second magnet exactly on top of it. Put a glue dot on the top of your little pile of magnets and carefully close the bookmark. Once it is adhered in the correct space, burnish both sides with your hands so that you are sure both magnets are stuck on the respective sides.

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Tips for Perfect Magnetic Bookmarks

• Use thin but strong magnets to avoid making the bookmark bulky; neodymium magnets or adhesive magnetic strips work well. (Frugal tip: Look at the dollar store, they usually carry them.)

• For the sublimated version, measure your heat press settings carefully to protect your cardstock.

• Make sure your artwork is mirrored perfectly for the folded magnet bookmark; it will appear upside down on one side before folding.

• When scoring cardstock, use a ruler to guide the score line for a clean fold.

• Test magnet placement on scrap paper to ensure they align well before adhering to your final bookmark.

• Personalise bookmarks with names, quotes, or themed images related to seasons or hobbies for added gift appeal.

• Be sure that any text on the bookmark will be right side up before printing your design.

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Why Magnetic Bookmarks?

Magnetic bookmarks clip securely to your pages, so they don't slip or fall out like traditional bookmarks. They are slim and lightweight, easy to carry in your purse or pocket. Plus, magnetic bookmarks with custom designs bring a personal touch to your reading style or crafting projects. Whether you want to showcase your favourite art, family photos, or inspiring quotes, making DIY magnetic bookmarks invites creativity and fun.

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Try making both styles to see which you like best or prepare sets for gifts, giveaways, or your next craft market. With these two easy-to-follow methods, you’ll be crafting charming and practical magnetic bookmarks in no time!