Category: Blog

Interview with Viggy Parr Hampton

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Viggy Parr Hampton has carved out a prominent place in the horror world. With her spine-chilling books and the popular podcast Horror Humor Hunger, she’s become a go-to expert on everything from horror history to the darkest, most unsettling facts. Now, with her latest release, A Veritable Household Pet, she’s ready to haunt our nightmares in a whole new way.

Can you talk about your latest book and what readers might find appealing about it?

My latest book, A Veritable Household Pet, is horror of a different stripe than usual. Darla Gregory receives a transorbital lobotomy at the age of eleven, and she is never the same. The book follows her life in the aftermath of the surgery, as well as the life of her older sister Ellie, who acts as her caretaker and the reluctant scribe for her story, injecting her views where relevant. A Veritable Household Pet explores a suite of very real terrors, rooted in true history: medical malpractice, family trauma, toxic relationships, mental illness, caregiver fatigue, misogyny, the loss of autonomy and identity, and so much more. It’s my favorite book yet, because it will make readers feel for the characters incredibly deeply.

You always do so much research for your books, what’s something you found out when researching that was surprising or horrifying?

One of the most horrifying pieces of information I came across directly inspired the title of the book. While doing my research on lobotomies, I kept finding before and after photos of patients. In the before photos, the patients would invariably look unkempt and unwell, and in the after photos, while they looked well-groomed and might even be smiling, their eyes looked completely vacant. One such before and after photo even had a caption that said the post-lobotomy patient was ‘a veritable household pet.’ The way these patients were treated as infantilized, docile creatures is both heartbreaking and horrifying in equal measure.

What’s a book you can’t stop recommending?

My Lobotomy by Howard Dully is the memoir of a man who received a lobotomy at the age of 12. It was a pivotal source for my research, but it’s also one of the most fascinating books I’ve ever read in its own right. I will never stop recommending this one!

Can you explain your writing process? What inspires you?

Every time I sit down to start a new novel, I think: Wait a minute, what am I doing? Every novel feels like its own microcosm, but here’s my general process. First, I spend a few months (or even longer) letting the ideas build up and marinate. I keep a notebook with bits and pieces of ideas, and when those ideas start to outgrow the pages, I move them to a document in my writing processor of choice, Scrivener. Then, I make note of any research I’ll need to do—books to read, movies to watch, podcasts to listen to, etc. After I’ve done enough research that I feel ready—or, if the characters start knocking on the proverbial door too hard, whichever comes first—I’ll start writing. I’ve been a plotter in the past, but now I’m a certified pantser.

In terms of inspiration, I pull things from everywhere—articles I’ve read, stories I’ve heard, history I’ve researched, places I’ve been. All of my books have some thread of truth or history running through them, which I think makes them that much punchier.

Is there a snack or drink that gets you into a writing mindset?

Lately I’ve been really loving having a cup of hot green tea next to me. It’s relaxing, and it helps signal my brain that it’s time to get down to business.

Are there any horror tropes you especially love in books or films?

I love two things: an unreliable, complicated narrator and an unhappy ending! It’s horror, after all—I don’t want to come away from it smiling!

Are you currently working on anything new?


My fifth novel, Ripped Up the Middle in Two, will publish in late July, and I’m currently getting that one in shape. It’s a creature feature motherhood horror about a postpartum mom who thinks there’s an evil fairy in the woods that wants to steal her baby. I’m also about to start work on my sixth novel, which will be a time travel-spin on the haunted house story.

A Veritable Household Pet is now available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble websites.

You can keep up with her writing at: https://viggyhampton.com/

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How to Throw the Cutest Tea Party Ever (Pinkies Optional) 🌷🫖

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Tea parties aren’t just for storybooks and fancy hats—they’re the perfect excuse to slow down, gather your favorite people, and make an ordinary afternoon feel a little magical. Whether you’re hosting a birthday, a bridal shower, a Galentine’s get-together, or just because, putting together a cute tea party is easier than you think—and way more fun.

Here’s how to host a tea party that feels charming, effortless, and totally Instagram-worthy.

Set the Scene ✨

Start with the vibe. A tea party is all about soft, cozy details.

  • Use a tablecloth or runner (lace, florals, or pastel tones are perfect)
  • Mix and match teacups and saucers—thrifted sets add instant charm
  • Add fresh flowers, even simple ones from the grocery store
  • Candles or fairy lights = instant cozy magic

Don’t stress about everything matching. A little mismatch makes it feel curated, not chaotic.

Choose Your Teas (Variety Is Key) 🍵

Offer a few different options so everyone finds their favorite:

  • A classic black tea (Earl Grey or English Breakfast)
  • A floral or fruity tea (hibiscus, peach, or berry)
  • A caffeine-free herbal option (chamomile or mint)

Bonus points for cute labels or handwritten tea tags.

Serve Simple, Pretty Snacks 🍰

Tea party food should be easy to eat and even easier to love.

  • Finger sandwiches (cucumber, egg salad, or cream cheese & jam)
  • Scones or mini muffins
  • Cookies, macarons, or petit fours
  • Fresh fruit for balance (and aesthetics)

Arrange everything on tiered trays or cake stands for that classic tea party look.

Add a Little Extra Fun 💕

Small details make the party memorable:

  • Provide sugar cubes, honey sticks, or flavored syrups
  • Set out pretty napkins or floral plates
  • Play soft background music (jazz, classical, or cozy playlists)
  • Encourage guests to dress the part—bows, florals, or pastel outfits

Optional but delightful: tiny name cards or handwritten notes at each place setting.

Make It Feel Special 🌸

The best tea parties aren’t about perfection—they’re about connection. Let the conversations flow, pour refills generously, and enjoy the slow pace. Laugh, snack, sip, repeat.

Final Sip

A cute tea party is really just about creating a warm, inviting moment where people feel cared for. With a little planning and a lot of charm, you’ll have a gathering everyone remembers long after the teacups are empty. 🫖✨

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An Easy Valentine’s Day Snack That’s Almost Too Cute to Eat 💘

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(Almost.)

Valentine’s Day snacks should be three things: adorable, delicious, and easy enough that you don’t need a full game plan to pull them off. Whether you’re hosting a Galentine’s night, planning a cozy date in, or just want something sweet while watching rom-coms in pajamas, this Valentine’s Day–inspired snack checks all the boxes.

Introducing: Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Yogurt Bites—aka little bites of love.

Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Yogurt Bites 🍓🍫

You’ll need:

  • Fresh strawberries, chopped
  • Vanilla Greek yogurt (or strawberry for extra pink vibes)
  • Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
  • Optional toppings: sprinkles, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, flaky sea salt

How to Make Them (So Easy It’s Basically Foolproof)

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix chopped strawberries with yogurt in a bowl.
  3. Spoon small dollops onto the baking sheet (heart shapes encouraged but not required).
  4. Freeze for 1–2 hours until firm.
  5. Melt chocolate in the microwave in 20-second intervals.
  6. Dip or drizzle the frozen bites with chocolate.
  7. Add toppings while the chocolate is still melty.
  8. Freeze again for 10–15 minutes until set.

That’s it. You’re done. You’re impressive.

Why You’ll Love These

  • They’re sweet but not too sweet
  • Perfect bite-sized snacks for sharing (or not)
  • Festive without being over-the-top
  • Feel slightly “healthy,” which totally balances out the chocolate 😉

Make Them Extra Cute 💖

  • Use white chocolate and swirl in pink food coloring
  • Add heart-shaped sprinkles for peak Valentine energy
  • Serve them in a cute bowl with a note that says “Made with love”

Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be complicated to be special. Sometimes all it takes is a simple snack, a cozy vibe, and something chocolatey in your freezer. 💘✨

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Why Audiobooks Might Be Your New Favorite Thing 🎧📚

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If you love stories but struggle to find time to sit down with a book, audiobooks are about to become your best friend. They’re convenient, cozy, and honestly kind of magical. Whether you’re commuting, cleaning, walking, or just lying on the couch pretending to “rest your eyes,” audiobooks let you enjoy books anytime, anywhere.

Here’s why audiobooks deserve a permanent spot in your daily routine.

You Can Read While Doing… Literally Anything

Folding laundry? Driving? Cooking dinner? Audiobooks turn everyday tasks into mini adventures. Suddenly, errands feel less boring and more “main character energy.” You’ll be amazed at how quickly you get through books without ever cracking one open.

They Make Stories Come Alive

A great narrator can elevate a book to a whole new level. Different voices, accents, emotion—it’s basically a private performance just for you. Some stories honestly feel better in audio form (yes, we said it).

Perfect for Busy Schedules

Audiobooks fit seamlessly into even the busiest lives. You don’t need to block out quiet time or carry a physical book around. Just pop in your headphones and press play—storytime is officially flexible.

Easy on the Eyes

Screen fatigue is real, and audiobooks are a refreshing break. No staring, no scrolling, no squinting—just close your eyes and listen. It’s relaxing and productive, which feels like winning.

They Help You Read More (Without the Pressure)

Audiobooks remove the pressure of “keeping up” with reading. You can go at your own pace, rewind if you miss something, or speed things up when you’re hooked. Before you know it, you’ve finished way more books than usual—and it feels effortless.

Perfect for Every Mood

Feel like something light and fun? Queue up a rom-com. Want motivation? Try a personal growth listen. Need comfort? A familiar narrator can feel like a cozy conversation. There’s truly an audiobook for every mood and moment.

Final Chapter

Audiobooks aren’t cheating—they’re just reading with a glow-up. They make books more accessible, more fun, and way easier to fit into real life. So grab your headphones, press play, and let the story come to you. 🎧📖✨

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A Sweet Sip for Valentine’s Day 💘

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The Perfect Pink Valentine’s Drink Recipe

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to slow down, light a candle, and enjoy something a little extra—especially when it comes in a pretty glass. Whether you’re celebrating with your partner, hosting a Galentine’s night, or treating yourself (because self-love is the vibe), this cute Valentine’s Day drink is equal parts festive, delicious, and easy to make.

Meet your new favorite February sip: a bubbly, blush-pink drink that feels romantic without being over the top.

The Valentine Blush Spritz

You’ll need:

  • 3 oz sparkling rosé (or prosecco)
  • 2 oz cranberry juice
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • Splash of simple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
  • Fresh raspberries or strawberries
  • Ice
  • Optional garnish: rosemary sprig, heart-shaped strawberry, or edible glitter ✨

How to make it:

  1. Fill a wine glass or coupe with ice.
  2. Add cranberry juice and fresh lime juice.
  3. Pour in the sparkling rosé.
  4. Sweeten to taste with a splash of simple syrup if needed.
  5. Gently stir and garnish with fresh berries or a rosemary sprig for a chic touch.

Why You’ll Love It

This drink is light, refreshing, and perfectly balanced—not too sweet, not too tart. The soft pink color makes it feel instantly festive, and the bubbles give it that celebratory sparkle that Valentine’s Day deserves.

Make It Your Own

  • Mocktail version: Swap the sparkling rosé for sparkling water or pink lemonade.
  • Extra romantic: Rim the glass with sugar (or pink sanding sugar!) before pouring.
  • Hosting tip: Make a big batch and let guests garnish their own glasses.

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be complicated to feel special. Sometimes all it takes is a pretty drink, a cozy moment, and a little sparkle in your glass. Cheers to love—in all its forms 💖🥂

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Review: Drunk Elephant C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream

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What It Is: A rich and restorative eye cream featuring a combination of peptides and vitamin C for brighter, firmer, stronger-looking skin.

What It Does: Hydrates, firms, and brights the eye area.

Active Ingredients: 5C Vitamin Complex, 8-Peptide Blend, and Cucumber Extract

Verdict: I’ve been a longtime fan of Drunk Elephant skincare, and the C-Tango Eye Cream is truly exceptional. Applied first thing in the morning, it delivers an instant burst of freshness paired with rich, lasting hydration. It creates the perfect, smooth base for concealer and keeps my under-eye area feeling nourished, bright, and refreshed all day long.

Price: $65

Where To Buy It: https://www.drunkelephant.com/

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How to Outsmart Seasonal Depression (Before It Steals Your Snacks)

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Ah yes, seasonal depression—also known as That Time of Year When the Sun Disappears and So Does My Motivation. The days get shorter, the weather gets colder, and suddenly even basic tasks feel like heroic quests. If you find yourself wanting to hibernate until spring, you’re not alone.

The good news? While we can’t control the seasons, we can stack the odds in our favor. Here are some realistic, mood-boosting ways to help keep seasonal depression from running the show—no toxic positivity required.

1. Chase the Sun (or at Least Pretend)

When daylight is scarce, your brain notices—and it’s not thrilled about it. Try to get outside during daylight hours, even if it’s cloudy or cold. A quick walk, standing by a window, or dramatically staring at the sky like a Victorian poet all count.

If sunlight is truly in short supply, a light therapy lamp can help. Think of it as a tiny artificial sun that doesn’t burn your skin or judge your life choices.

2. Move Your Body (Gently, We’re Not Training for the Olympics)

Exercise helps boost mood, but let’s be clear: this does not mean you suddenly need to become a “winter fitness person.” Stretching, dancing in your kitchen, walking, or doing ten squats while waiting for your coffee to brew all qualify.

The goal is movement, not suffering.

3. Stick to a Routine (But Make It Cozy)

Seasonal depression loves chaos. Your brain, however, thrives on predictability. Try to keep regular sleep and wake times—even on weekends—so your internal clock doesn’t completely lose the plot.

Bonus points if your routine includes something cozy and enjoyable, like a nightly cup of tea, a favorite show, or aggressively comfortable pajamas.

4. Eat Foods That Love You Back

No, you don’t have to give up carbs (and anyone who suggests that should be ignored immediately). But try to balance comfort foods with meals that actually fuel you—think protein, fruits, veggies, and foods rich in vitamin D and omega-3s.

And yes, chocolate still counts as emotional support.

5. Stay Social (Even When You’d Rather Become a Hermit)

Seasonal depression often makes us want to cancel all plans and live exclusively with our blankets. While rest is important, total isolation usually makes things worse.

Low-effort connection counts: texting a friend, sending memes, or chatting with someone while running errands. You don’t need to host a dinner party—just remind your brain that humans exist and some of them are nice.

6. Lower the Bar (Seriously, Put It on the Floor)

Winter is not the time for reinventing yourself. It’s okay if you’re less productive, less energetic, or less enthusiastic than usual. You’re not failing—you’re responding to biology and weather.

Focus on small wins. Showered today? Win. Answered one email? Win. Didn’t scream into the void? Major win.

7. Ask for Backup When You Need It

If seasonal depression starts feeling heavy, persistent, or overwhelming, it’s important to talk to a professional. Therapy, medication, or both can be incredibly helpful—and needing support doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means you’re human.

Think of it as assembling your personal mental health Avengers.

Final Thoughts

Seasonal depression can be sneaky, stubborn, and downright rude—but it doesn’t get to define your entire winter. With a mix of light, movement, connection, kindness (especially toward yourself), and maybe an unreasonable number of blankets, you can get through the season with your sanity mostly intact.

Spring will come. Until then, do your best—and don’t forget to drink some water. 🌤️

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Book Review: Hemlock and Silver by T. Kingfisher

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PLOT SUMMARY:

Healer Anja regularly drinks poison.

Not to die, but to save—seeking cures for those everyone else has given up on.

But a summons from the King interrupts her quiet, herb-obsessed life. His daughter, Snow, is dying, and he hopes Anja’s unorthodox methods can save her.

Aided by a taciturn guard, a narcissistic cat, and a passion for the scientific method, Anja rushes to treat Snow, but nothing seems to work. That is, until she finds a secret world, hidden inside a magic mirror. This dark realm may hold the key to what is making Snow sick.

Or it might be the thing that kills them all.

GRADE: C

REVIEW:

I’m not usually a fan of fantasy, but I’ve enjoyed every T. Kingfisher book I’ve read so far, so I decided to give this one a try. It also helped that it was marketed as a Snow White retelling—and I’m a total sucker for fairytale retellings.

The good:
Some readers felt the protagonist, Anja, had too much internal monologue, but I didn’t mind it at all. I found her engaging, and it never felt annoying to me. I also absolutely loved the character of Grayling, who easily became a standout.

The not-so-good:
Action-wise, it felt like not much really happened. The mystery surrounding the king’s daughter’s illness wasn’t especially compelling, and I couldn’t help feeling there was a lot of missed potential—particularly when it came to the mirror realm, which could have been explored much more deeply.

Overall:
I really enjoyed Jennifer Pickens’ narration of the audiobook, and I think her performance helped make the story feel more engaging than it might have otherwise. Still, from a plot standpoint, the book didn’t quite live up to my expectations.

*Thank you so much to NetGalley & MacMillan Audio for the audiobook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

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How to Start a TBR Book Cart (and Make It Actually Fun)

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If your “to be read” pile is slowly taking over your nightstand, desk, and every flat surface in your home, it might be time for a TBR book cart. Not only is it a practical way to organize your next reads, but it also turns your books into a little reading experience—one that feels intentional, aesthetic, and motivating instead of overwhelming.

Here’s how to start a TBR book cart and make it something you’re excited to use.

1. Choose Your Cart (Style Over Perfection)

First things first: you need a cart. A three-tier rolling cart is the classic choice, but anything with shelves works—bar carts, small bookcases, or even a sturdy crate setup. Don’t stress about finding the “perfect” one. The goal is function and fun, not Pinterest pressure.

Pick something that fits your space and your vibe. Minimalist? Go neutral. Maximalist reader? Bright colors, please.

2. Curate, Don’t Overload

The secret to a successful TBR cart is curation. Instead of dumping every unread book you own onto it, choose a manageable number you’re genuinely excited about. Think of your cart as your current reading season, not your entire backlog.

A good rule of thumb:

  • 5–10 novels
  • 1–2 non-fiction books
  • 1 “mood read” wildcard

This keeps your cart inspiring rather than intimidating.

3. Organize by Vibes

This is where the fun really starts. Instead of organizing by author or genre, try organizing by mood:

  • Cozy reads
  • Dark academia
  • Short and fast-paced
  • Emotional damage (you know the ones)

You can also dedicate each tier to a theme or reading goal. It turns choosing your next book into a mini ritual instead of a stressful decision.

4. Add Bookish Extras

Your TBR cart doesn’t have to be just books. Make it a reading station by adding:

  • Bookmarks
  • Highlighters or tabs
  • A reading journal or notebook
  • Cozy socks or a small candle (unlit, of course)

These little touches make the cart feel personal and encourage you to actually pick up a book.

5. Rotate Regularly

To keep things fresh, rotate your cart every month or season. Swap out books you’re no longer in the mood for and add new ones you’re excited about. This helps prevent reading slumps and gives you permission to DNF or postpone books without guilt.

Your TBR is not a chore—it’s a menu.

6. Make It a Reading Ritual

Finally, turn your TBR cart into part of your reading routine. When you finish a book, choose the next one from the cart. When you’re feeling stuck, browse it like you’re in your own tiny bookstore.

The more intentional you make it, the more fun reading becomes.

A TBR book cart isn’t about reading faster or conquering your backlog—it’s about creating a space that celebrates your love of books. Make it cozy. Make it chaotic. Make it yours. 📚✨

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An Easy, Healthy Lunch to Bring to Work (That You’ll Actually Look Forward To)

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Packing lunch for work doesn’t have to mean sad salads or hours of meal prep. The best work lunches are simple, filling, and easy to throw together—especially on busy mornings. This go-to lunch checks all those boxes and keeps you energized for the rest of the day.

The Simple Solution: Mediterranean Chickpea Wrap

This lunch is fresh, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, and it comes together in about 10 minutes.

What You’ll Need:

  • 1 whole-grain wrap or pita
  • ½ cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and mashed
  • A spoonful of hummus or Greek yogurt
  • Chopped cucumber
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Spinach or mixed greens
  • Feta cheese (optional)
  • Olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper

How to Make It:

  1. In a bowl, mash the chickpeas with hummus or yogurt.
  2. Add a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Layer the chickpea mixture onto your wrap.
  4. Top with veggies and feta if using.
  5. Roll it up, wrap it in foil or parchment, and you’re good to go.

Why This Lunch Works

  • Healthy and balanced: You get plant-based protein, fiber, healthy fats, and plenty of veggies.
  • Keeps you full: Chickpeas and whole grains provide steady energy without a mid-afternoon crash.
  • Easy to prep: You can make the filling ahead of time and assemble the wrap in minutes.
  • Portable: No reheating required—perfect for busy workdays.

Make It Your Own

This wrap is incredibly flexible. Swap chickpeas for grilled chicken or tofu, add roasted veggies, or change up the sauce with pesto or tzatziki. Once you find a version you love, it becomes a reliable lunch you’ll want to repeat.

Eating well at work doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes all it takes is one easy, satisfying lunch to make your day run a little smoother. 🥙

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