Hey there, I’m Jess ✨. On The Signature, I share reflections on beauty, routines, travel, wellness, culture, and everyday life. For those drawn to a calmer, more intentional way of living, I send a free newsletter each month on the 7th. You're welcome to join.
The beginning of the year is always filled with promise: personal goals to achieve, professional milestones to celebrate, things to recalibrate, finances to reshuffle and ... a towering TBR (To Be Read) list of books to tackle! And I love nothing more than a challenge to keep me accountable.
How well did my reading challenge go in 2025?
In 2025, I read 36 books, mixing many biographies with family dramas, thrillers and romance. I am extremely proud of this achievement which I turned a bit more seamless by blending my Kindle library with my Audible one. I love listening to at least 30 minutes of an audiobook in the morning or whilst walking. That allows me to incorporate reading into my rushed life as well as to have relaxed moments under a blanket with my reader when I have some downtime.
Jess
How many books do I want to read 2026?
For 2026, I will be pushing the envelope further and I want to reach 52 books. It's about one book or audiobook per week. I am sure I could reach that number without even buying a new book as my libraries are bursting - call me a book hoarder! - but you know I easily succumb to new launches as well.
Jess
Books that I want to read in 2026: Jessica George's Love by the Book / Kim Eui-Kyung's Hello Baby / Margrét Ann Thors's Freyja
How is my reading challenge going?
I have finished 43 books so far.