In this episode of Caffeinated Chapter, I reintroduce the podcast, sharing my excitement about returning to the mic after a hiatus.

I discuss my goals for the podcast, including cutting out filler words and creating a cozy space for book lovers.

I reflect on my recent reading journey, mentioning the books I have completed and my intention to read more consistently.

I emphasized the importance of enjoying the reading process without pressure, and I shared my love for coffee, a recurring theme in the upcoming episodes.

Throughout the conversation, I also express gratitude for listener engagement and the emotional connection I feel with my audience, highlighting the impact of a supportive community on my creative endeavors.

Some of the books mentioned in this episode:

• The Bone River by Nkereuwem Albert
• Rebel Folklore: Empowering Tales of Spirits, Witches, and Other Misfits from Anansi to Baba Yaga Audiobook edition by Icy Sedgwick with Maite Jáuregui (Narrator)
• Things We Do Not Tell The People We Love by Huma Qureshi
• Son of the Morning by Akwaeke Emezi
• The Samurai's Garden by Gail Tsukiyama
• Gate to Kagoshima by Poppy Kuroki

The 2026 reading challenges mentioned:

• Fun With Titles Reading Challenge 2026
• January in Japan
• The StoryGraph Reads the World 2026
• The StoryGraph's Genre Challenge 2026
• The 2026 #SomethingBookishReadingChallenge

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