Hi friends,
It’s Friday, and I just woke up with one mission: check in and recommend a few books that absolutely lit up my week.
Let’s start with life. Then we’ll dive into some incredible action romcoms that made me laugh, gasp, and stay up too late listening to audiobooks.
Fun Library Activities To Do Beyond This Week!
💬 Real Life Lately: Humble Pie, Pilates Edition
Last Friday, I finally did something I’ve been putting off for years: I signed up for modern Pilates (also known as the Lagree Method). It's not your regular reformer Pilates—the Megaformer machine is basically a beast, and this workout humbled me.
Backstory: My first experience with this style of Pilates over a decade ago in NYC was... bad. A class at SLT where the instructor yelled at me turned me off entirely. So, when I saw a new studio near Oxford Exchange in Tampa, I hesitated. But something in me said: try again.
I signed up for their intro deal—two classes for $32—and showed up on Friday. Yes, I had to brave 275 (Tampa folks, you know the pain), but it was worth it. The instructors were kind, the vibe was welcoming, and one student was even in town from NYC for the Women’s Final Four. We swapped boutique fitness war stories, and for a moment, it felt like home.
This isn’t just about fitness. It’s about showing up, reclaiming spaces, doing something hard, and proving to yourself that you can.
Also, Tampa friends: the food is still not giving. But that’s a rant for another day.
Important Update: Miami-Dade Public Library Ending Non-Resident Access
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but due to budget cuts and a new Executive Order, the Miami-Dade Public Library System is ending its non-resident library card program this year.
What does this mean for current cardholders? You won’t be able to renew your card once it expires.
This is such a loss. Miami-Dade has long been a favorite for its excellent access to new releases, substantial collection of Spanish-language books, and user-friendly digital lending system. If you currently have a card, now’s the time to make the most of it before your membership ends.
🧘♀️ What Else I’ve Been Up To
Sculpt Yoga in the park with my book club
First full week back to my usual yoga routine (hello, endorphins)
Embracing messy hair, sweaty classes, and weekends full of movement
I also want to shout out the Tampa Book & Sip Club. They host everything from cake decorating to sculpt and yoga with floral bouquet building. There's a club meeting this month at a gorgeous upscale bar—I haven’t gone yet (introvert here), but maybe I’ll find the nerve this summer. Baby steps.
Find your local Sip and Book Club here. If your city doesn’t have one, you can start your own chapter, by clicking here.
Still Not Over the White Lotus Finale?
Want Even More Recommendations?
Check out our complete book list for even more books of thrillers that start with a vacation but end with Murder!
📚 Book Talk: The Rise of Action Romcoms
Okay, let’s get to the good stuff: the books.
I've got three picks for you if you love a romcom with a side of international espionage, mistaken identity, or covert missions. These are fun, fast-paced, and have just enough romantic tension to keep you hooked.
🕵️♀️ The Blonde Identity by Ally Carter
Think: The Bourne Identity, but make it flirty.
A woman wakes up in Paris with no memory, a mystery man who might be a spy, and killers on her tail. Turns out—oops—she’s not the intended target. Her twin sister is.
This one is part of a new series from Ally Carter, who you may know from her YA spy novels. It’s charming, clever, and perfect for a virtual European vacation.
👩👧👧 Errands and Espionage by Sam Tschida
Think: Finlay Donovan meets mom chaos and covert ops.
Freshly divorced, broke, and desperate, a suburban mom gets mistaken for a secret agent and swept into a world of cats, chaos, and corporate espionage. Her drag queen bestie and desperate neighbor round out the chaos.
It’s hilarious, heartfelt, and a total delight.
💣 Codeword Romance by Carlie Walker
Think: The Princess Switch meets the CIA.
A failed restaurateur gets recruited to pose as a foreign prime minister’s body double for a secret vacation on the Amalfi Coast. Her CIA handler? A man from her past, she’s definitely not over.
There are bombs. Spies. Secret romances. And a frantic roommate channeling Liam Neeson. I’m still listening to the audiobook because I had to know how it ends. A hidden gem that deserves more love.
📝 TL;DR
Action romcoms are in their it-girl era
Don’t be afraid to revisit intimidating workouts
Small steps (like joining a book club event) matter
Tampa food still isn’t it, but the fitness scene is making a comeback
Get yourself a Library Card! If you already have it, make sure to borrow a book or take advantage of one of your library's many services.
That’s it from me today. I’ll be back next week with more reads, more reflections, and maybe a few survival-mode updates.
Until then, what’s one thing you did this week that surprised you?
xo,
Laura
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