In one sentence: When Princess Bridget von Ascheberg gets assigned a broody and arrogant elite bodyguard named Rhys Larsen, they clash immediately but it isn't long before their relationship goes from hate to love. (Add to Goodreads)
⭐⭐⭐✨ 3.5 stars | I originally hadn't planned on continuing this series but when your best friend buys you a copy for Christmas and insists you'll like it, you listen. And naturally, she was right! This was definitely a stronger and more enjoyable installment of Huang's Twisted series. The princess and the bodyguard certainly isn't a new trope but I adored Bridget and seeing Rhys' tender moments beneath his stoic exterior definitely made me swoon. That said, he was still a little too alpha male for me which seems to be my problem in general with the heroes in Twisted (granted, Rhy is 10x better than the previous book's love interest). I'm not in any hurry to continue the series but I'll admit, I am curious to keep reading!
In one sentence: Two teenagers are each struggling with something difficult in their lives but what brings them together is a genuine love of horses and the rodeo, and their determination to figure out what the future holds for them. (Add to Goodreads - Thanks Wednesday Books for the e-galley!)
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars | It's been far too long since I've read a YA horse romance so when more than one friend put Even If It Breaks Your Heart on my radar, I didn't hesitate to pre-order it. It's a very quiet slice-of-life novel that follows two nineteen year olds (I like that they're older!), Case Michaels, who's dealing with the loss of his best friend, and Winnie Sutton, who is practically raising her two younger siblings and absentee dad. She works at Case's father's ranch and while at first she wants nothing to do with Case, they slowly become friends through their love of horses and by putting in the time to get to know one another. Oftentimes that part gets rushed and I enjoyed seeing their relationship unfold from hesitant friends, to becoming each other's person, and eventually love (all against the backdrop of the rodeo and ranch!).
In one sentence: ASAP, the companion novel to XOXO, follows Sori, the wealthy daughter of a K-Pop company owner, and Nathaniel, her K-Pop exboyfriend, get a second chance at love. (Add to Goodreads Thanks HarperTeen for the e-galley!)
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars | I wanted Sori and Nathaniel's story from the moment I met them in XOXO and Oh absolutely delivered. I'm not a K-Pop fan by any means, aside from liking a handful of songs, but I'll admit I do enjoy reading about the behind-the-scenes life of that world. Sori and Nathaniel broke up because they couldn't be together and become pop stars so they mutually chose their careers. But in this novel, we see Sori decide stardom isn't what she wants and for Nathaniel and her, struggle with the pressure that comes with the popularity and not wanting to disappoint those around them. It allows them to reconnect and the chemistry, not to mention tension, between them was tangible. Stardom aside, the book is really about figuring their own paths, love, family, and friendship (Sori and Jenny continuing to be BFFs made me smile) which is ultimately what made me enjoy this book so much.
In one sentence: Love Redesigned is a steamy, small town romance about two family friends-turned-childhood rivals, told in alternating point-of-views between Julian and Dahlia. (Add to Goodreads)
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars | Childhood rivals, second chance romance, and a man who will do anything for the woman he loves while being devoted to his family? This is literally all the things I love wrapped into one book. The story dives right in and immediately sets the stage with unresolved tension and history between Julian and Dahlia. It's clear there's a spark between these two and the author does a great job of letting their relationship build in the present, while peppering the story with nods to their past. Seeing the whole picture of their romance makes it impossible not to root for them (along with their hopeful mamas!) and my heart melted seeing the much-needed joy and levity they brought to one another's lives. It was the right balance of angst and just feel-good romance.
In one sentence: Valancy Stirling is 29 years old, unmarried, and never been in love but when she gets a shocking diagnosis, she decides to take all the chances. (Add to Goodreads)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars | As someone who adores Anne and barely tolerated Emily, I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I met Valancy. Yet within the first few pages, I found myself relating to her deeply. Unlike the two aforementioned heroines who we meet as young girls, Valancy is 29 years old, unmarried, and never experience true love or friendship. Instead, she's had a not-so-pleasantly family constantly provoke her about her looks or lack of marriage prospects. When she receives shocking news from her doctor, it's the catalyst she needed and that's when the book gets even better! She takes her life by the reins, making huge and necessary changes, and for the first time in her life, truly speaks her mind. Snarky, honest Valancy is truly a wonder to behold. The book felt ahead of its time, feminist, vulnerable, and humorous. Even though Anne is still my favorite heroine of LMM, I can confidently say that Valancy is my second.
In one sentence: A standalone holiday rom-com about the adult children of a former female rockstar duo agree to star on a live reality series in which they convince their mothers to play a Christmas Eve concert. (Add to Goodreads)
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars | This was one of those books where it was exactly what I needed at the time. Even though the romance between Melody and Beat (yes, those are really their names) happens quickly, I didn’t mind because their dynamic was absolutely charming and I felt the chemistry jumping off the pages. And most of all, it was just fun! If you suspend your disbelief and let yourself go along with all the shenanigans, I think you’ll find it pretty enjoyable too.
In one sentence: Two rival archeologists, with a long history, team up on a secret Aztec expedition. (Add to Goodreads - Thanks Berkley for the copy!)
⭐⭐ 2 stars | I love a good adventure story and the idea of pairing that genre with romance made me very excited for this book. Unfortunately, this didn’t quite work for me. I expected a lot of hijinks and steamy moments, given the hate-to-love trope, and while the plot certainly had both in spades, I wasn’t into the execution (and don’t even get me started on the last few chapters!). Not to mention, I didn’t quite connect with either character or root for their romance. Overall, the book was okay but not a favorite.
In one sentence: Emmy Ryder has made her horse-riding dreams come true but after an accident, she returns home and sparks fly between her and her older brother’s best friend, Luke. (Add to Goodreads )
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars | So what did I like? The fact that it featured a female barrel racer — in the few horse books I’ve read featuring this sport, it’s usually a guy. I loved the dynamic and history between Emmy and Luke. It had just the right amount of angst. And I enjoyed the whole Ryder family, which is great because the next book features one of her brothers and I’ve already pre-ordered it. Lyla Sage’s Rebel Blue Ranch series is one I would 100% recommend if you enjoy romance regardless if you’re a horse girlie or not.
In one sentence: Emily Starr is sent to live with her mother’s snobbish relatives, whom she’s never met, after her father passes away and starts a new life in New Moon. (Add to Goodreads)
⭐⭐⭐ 3 stars | This book is absolutely not a rehash of Anne of Green Gables. Emily is her own person and New Moon was entirely its own, surprisingly gothic, world too. I’ll admit, it was hard not to compare Anne and Emily; and I think you’ll find yourself in either one camp or the other (I’m an Anne girl, through and through). Emily is a lot broodier and haughtier but like any young girl, she’s looking for friends and family support and I understood that yearning even when I didn’t really warm up to any of the characters around her (except Perry, who I adored). I also found myself questioning the sub-plot choices and even editing (it was very repetitive at times) but in spite of that, it was an engaging read and I plan to finish the whole series.
Here are some non-bookish articles I really liked this past month and my latest loves.
So, without further ado, here are the purchases I'm obsessed with lately:
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra pendant | I've been in love with this necklace ever since I saw it a couple years ago. The white mother of pearl and black onyx versions are the ones most commonly seen (my friend got the black and it's more striking than the pearl) but this all gold version is my favorite. It is more expensive but this piece truly goes with everything I wear.
Celine Teen Triomphe Bag in Shiny Calfskin | As far as luxury designer brands go, Celine has moved to the top of my list in the last year. I wanted a more casual black crossbody bag and I loved it as soon as I tried it on. The size is perfect for me and fits more than you'd expect.
Longchamp Le Foulonne Hobo Bag | I have so many crossbody and tote bags but hardly any shoulder bags. The quality and minimalist nature of this bag is perfect! Truly, Longchamp is one of my absolute favorite brands. I find myself reaching for this one a lot.
Longchamp Pure Phone Bag | I'd been wanting a phone bag (literally can fit my phone, keys, card holder, and maybe a lip balm) to throw on when I don't need much and this immediately caught my eye when I saw it at the Charles de Gaulle airport. I honestly don't think I would pay US retail price for it but the duty-free Europe price? It was a steal.
A&F Air Cloud Puffer Parka | I haven't had a chance to wear this yet but I honestly can't wait to! The inside is the softest faux fur and the use of the word "cloud' to describe this parka is accurate.
J.Crew Teddy Sherpa Jacket | Even though I hate cold weather, I'm such a sucker for a good coat. I'd been wanting a sherpa jacket so that combine with my recent love of brown (you'll notice a trend with today's post) and the fact that they had petite sizing made this purchase a no-brainer.
Sam Edelman Loraine Woven Bit Loafer | I'm a huge fan of these loafers and I already own a pair in saddle. When I looking for brown shoes to add to my closet, I came across these on sale and I love them! The woven look adds a little something different to this classic pair of shoes. They're still on sale so if you're interested, buy them now!
Birkenstock Boston Shearling Suede Leather Mule | I saw someone in the city wearing these and immediately looked them up online. I've never been into Birkenstocks but something about this pair called to me! They're comfy and I love the brown color plus they're warm! They're a great alternative to my Uggs moccasins.
Here are some non-bookish articles I really liked this past month and my latest loves.
Available on Hulu |
I decided to watch Rosaline for two reasons: I'm a fan of the book it was based on (When You Were Mine by Rebecca Serle) and Sean Teale is my #2 celebrity crush (behind my OG #1 Joshua Jackson, of course). I had a feeling the movie would be fun but this far exceeded my expectations! In the original Romeo & Juliet story (which I hate), Rosaline is only mentioned in passing as Romeo's ex. In this movie, it is all told from her perspective and the Rosaline of this adaptation is hilarious, witty, and flawed. I just laughed and smiled a lot throughout. Her scenes with Daario (Teale) had great chemistry and they had a whole hate-to-love thing which was just charming to watch. Not to mention, Sean Teale just oozes charisma and I loved hearing his British accent. If you want something fun to watch, I can't recommend this enough.
Available on Disney+ |
Orphan Black is one of my all-time favorite TV shows so when I heard that Tatiana Maslany was taking on She-Hulk, I could not have been more excited. She's a brilliant and underrated actress so I was looking forward to seeing her in something so mainstream. Unfortunately, I just wasn't a fan of the show. I think Maslany was great as Jennifer Walters/She-Hulk but I just wasn't happy with the direction of the story. I've heard the show follows the comics really closely and stays true to the voice and tone of it but it didn't work for me. There were definitely some highlights (I totally ship She-Hulk/Jennifer with Daredevil/Matt!) but I spent a lot of the season wondering where it was all going, how would it tie in to this phase of the MCU, and it never answers those questions. The finale made things worse in my eyes and just felt really sloppy. If it comes back, I'll probably still watch (because of Tatiana!) but my excitement and expectations will be much more tempered.
Available on Crunchyroll |
I was so bummed that I couldn't watch Fruits Basket: Prelude in theaters so I was checking Crunchyroll constantly until I could finally stream it. And now that I have, it did not disappoint! The first 20 minutes or so was basically a recap of Tohru and Kyo's scenes from the show, which honestly could've been shorter since I already watch YouTube videos that do exactly this. But we do get some extra scenes between Kyo and Kyoko (Tohru's mom) before segueing into her love story with Katsuya. Even though we already know the ending to their relationship and these two characters, it was really beautiful to watch how their romance unfolded and seeing them welcome Tohru into their lives. I didn't expect to get so invested or emotional in such a short period of time. If I had one complaint about the movie, it's that we didn't get more time with these two. But I really enjoyed it and we also got a glimpse into what Tohru and Kyo have been up to (somehow Kyo got even dreamier!) so all in all, I was very happy with it!
[top-bottom; left-right]
Madewell Cali Demi-Boot Jeans in Shoreham Wash | As much as I love my skinny jeans, lately I've been trying to branch out. First with mom jeans, and now ankle-length demi-boot jeans! I'm loving this style and since this pair has a raw hem, I was able to cut it to a length that works for me.
Cuts Almost Friday Tee | I was influenced once again! The quality of these basic tees live up to the hype though. I have this (which is TTS) and the tomboy tee (had to go up 2 sizes) but I prefer the fit of this one best.
Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafer in Saddle | I adore this saddle color and have been wearing these loafers a ton since buying them. If you've been eyeing the Gucci loafers, this is a great dupe that's high quality.
Loft Houndstooth Long Modern Blazer | I am super into blazers lately but it can be hard to find one that's a flattering fit on me. So when I do, I don't second guess buying it. This one fits great!
Longchamp Silk Scarf | I had been wanting a printed silk scarf but originally I was looking at Hermes, although I was not a fan of the price. On a whim, I decided to check Longchamp since I've been loving their stuff so much and when I saw this, I knew it was the one. It's neutral, great all year round (IMHO), and it has horses!
Dior Forever Skin Correct Concealer | After using Tarte Shape Tape for 3 years, I decided to try something new and I did not expect to love Dior's concealer so much. The color is perfect (more so than Tarte's) and I love that it's more creamy but less heavy. I think this is my new holy grail concealer!
Baboon Conan Cropped Pants | I wanted to add non-denim pants to my closet but as per usual, it's hard to find something that fits me well and preferably wouldn't require hemming. So imagine my shock when I tried these on in-store and I immediately loved the fit on me. The length, the waist, way the trousers fall -- it's perfect! And if I were to order online, there's a short option if I wanted them to be truly cropped ("regular" crop is ankle length on me).
BLANKNYC Plaid Shacket | I got this during the Nordstrom Anniversary sale but only began wearing it recently! A shacket has long been on my wishlist but it was tough to find one that was oversized without overwhelming my frame and again, I got really lucky shopping because this one is just right. The neutral color is an added bonus.
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Have you bought anything lately that you're obsessed with?
]]>Here are some non-bookish articles I really liked this past month and my latest loves.
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