Review: Pee-Wee As Himself

Watching Pee-wee As Himself feels like peeling back the curtain on one of pop culture’s most fascinating figures. Paul Reubens, the man behind the bowtie and high-pitched giggle, was nothing short of a creative genius. This documentary doesn’t just show you how Pee-wee Herman was made—it reminds you how rare and brilliant it was for someone to invent a whole world, live in it, and get the world to follow along.

Reubens created a character that was joyfully weird, totally original, and unapologetically himself. Pee-wee was for kids, sure—but there was always this wink to adults. He was innocent but rebellious, silly but sharp. What the film captures so well is how Reubens didn’t just play Pee-wee—he was Pee-wee. It was performance art wrapped in Saturday morning cartoons, and it worked beautifully.

But then came the backlash. The documentary doesn’t shy away from the ugly part of the story—how a minor incident turned into a media frenzy and moral panic. It’s hard to ignore how homophobia and cultural conservatism played a huge role in tearing Reubens down. A guy who challenged gender norms, played with camp, and refused to be “normal” was an easy target. The media didn’t just report on him—they wanted to humiliate him.

The beauty of Pee-wee As Himself is that it gives Reubens the space he never really got at the time—to be human. To be more than a headline. It’s both a celebration and a gentle critique of the way fame and queerness have always been in tension in America.

More than anything, the doc reminds you: Pee-wee wasn’t just a character. He was a revolution in red lipstick and saddle shoes.

Now streaming on MAX.

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Summer 2025 Reading Trends: What Everyone Will Be Flipping Pages For

There’s something magical about summer reading. Whether you’re poolside with a fizzy drink, on a breezy porch swing, or curled up in a too-cold, over-air-conditioned café, a good book just hits differently in the summer.

So if you’re wondering what to read—or what everyone else will be reading—this summer, here’s your guide to the biggest reading trends of Summer 2025. Spoiler: it’s a juicy mix of cozy, thrilling, romantic, and surprisingly real.

Let’s dive in 📚☀️

1. Romantasy Is Still Ruling Our Hearts (and Bookshelves)

If you thought the romantasy wave (that perfect blend of romance + fantasy) was over, think again. It’s booming. Think mythical creatures, powerful heroines, forbidden love, and world-building so rich you’ll miss it when you close the book.

Books with “grumpy mage + sunshine warrior” dynamics? Obsessively bookmarked. Enemies-to-lovers across kingdoms? Can’t get enough.

Hot sub-trend: Retellings of classic myths and fairy tales with a romantic twist.


2. Cozy Fiction & “Low-Stakes Drama” Is on the Rise

After years of high-intensity thrillers and heavy topics, readers are craving comfort. Enter: cozy fiction. Small-town settings, quirky characters, and plots where not much happens—but in the best way.

Think:

  • A recently divorced baker finding herself (and maybe a handsome florist).
  • A bookshop by the sea with a mysterious owner and a slow-burn romance.
  • A 70-year-old woman solving crimes with her cat and a cup of tea.

It’s feel-good, no-pressure, “just one more chapter” reading.


3. Nonfiction That Reads Like Fiction

This summer, readers want to learn and be entertained. Cue the rise of narrative nonfiction—true stories told in a way that reads like a page-turner.

Top picks:

  • Personal memoirs with humor, honesty, and heart (think: modern Nora Ephron vibes).
  • True crime, but with thoughtful reflection rather than shock value.
  • Science, psychology, and history books that explain the world in bite-size brilliance.

4. Global Voices & Translated Lit Are Taking Center Stage

Readers are expanding their horizons—literally. More people are reaching for translated fiction, stories from underrepresented cultures, and non-Western narratives. Expect to see buzz around books originally written in Korean, Spanish, and Arabic, along with Indigenous authors finally getting their spotlight.

It’s the summer of fresh perspectives—and it’s long overdue.


5. Books That Feel Like TikToks (in a good way)

Short chapters. Snappy pacing. Messy but lovable main characters. Welcome to the age of internet-influenced fiction.

These are the books that go viral for a reason:

  • Fast, funny, relatable.
  • Perfect for short attention spans.
  • Full of emotional moments you will highlight and post about.

And yes, they still hit you in the feels.


6. AI, Time Travel & “Almost Sci-Fi” Are Heating Up

Summer 2025’s wildcard genre? Speculative fiction that feels just one step ahead of reality.

Stories about near-future tech, AI gone rogue (or falling in love?!), climate-adapted societies, and time travel with emotional consequences are everywhere—and surprisingly addictive.

If you love Black Mirror, The Midnight Library, or anything that makes you go “wait… could this actually happen?”—this is your summer genre.


Lastly, Read What Feels Good

Whether you’re team fantasy, nonfiction nerd, or a sucker for soft romances, this summer is all about finding your comfort read. There’s no pressure to be “caught up” or reading what everyone else is. But if you are curious what’s trending—these are the titles and vibes making waves.

So, grab your sunglasses, a blanket, and maybe an iced latte. Summer 2025 is stacked with stories just waiting for you to crack them open.

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Spark Joy: Embrace Hobbies Without Pressure by Stephanie Haywood

Starting a new hobby isn’t about becoming a master or hitting some elusive benchmark of success. It’s about carving out space in your life for something that’s just yours—something that lights a spark, even if just for a few minutes a day. Whether you’ve always wanted to learn how to draw, swing a tennis racket, or finally understand what the heck “quantum theory” even means, the good news is this: there’s no wrong way to begin. The key is to stop overthinking and just start, imperfectly and unapologetically.

Let Yourself Be Bad at Art (For a While)

Creative hobbies can be intimidating, especially if you’ve convinced yourself you’re “not the artistic type.” But creativity isn’t a type—it’s a muscle. Drawing, painting, or sculpting doesn’t require talent; it requires time and repetition. To begin, grab a cheap sketchbook and spend ten minutes each day doodling without judgment. Follow YouTube tutorials that walk you through simple exercises, like drawing a cartoon cat or blending watercolor gradients, and let the process be messy. The goal isn’t to make a masterpiece—it’s to make something that’s yours.

Dance Like Nobody’s Watching

Physical hobbies are more than just ways to stay fit—they’re invitations to reconnect with your body in a way that feels joyful instead of obligatory. If the gym isn’t your scene, try something offbeat like dance, rock climbing, or even roller skating. The trick for beginners is to remove pressure: take an online class at home or go during off-peak hours if you’re nervous about people watching. Apps like Steezy or beginner sessions at local studios can ease you into movement that feels less like exercise and more like play.

Learn to Love Learning

Intellectual hobbies are perfect for people who crave stimulation but don’t necessarily want another item on their to-do list. Whether it’s learning a new language, diving into chess, or obsessing over obscure historical eras, the joy here is in curiosity. Start with a low-barrier entry point: Duolingo for language learners, the “Learn to Play” section on Chess.com, or a great podcast like “Hardcore History” for history buffs. Don’t turn it into a homework assignment. Let yourself learn in fragments, chase rabbit holes, and skip around—this kind of learning isn’t about structure, it’s about spark.

Use Your Hands—And Give Your Brain a Break

Tactile hobbies like knitting, pottery, or woodworking are underrated forms of meditation. They give your mind something to focus on that isn’t a screen or a spreadsheet. If you’re a complete beginner, start small. Buy a basic knitting kit that includes instructions and materials, or take a one-off ceramics class at a local studio. You’ll mess up stitches and accidentally lop off a piece of clay you didn’t mean to—but you’ll also feel the deep satisfaction that comes from making something tangible with your own hands.

Grow Something

Gardening or growing herbs is an earthy, grounding hobby that’s good for people who feel scattered or stressed. You don’t need a yard to start—just a few pots, a sunny windowsill, and a little patience. Pick easy starters like basil, mint, or succulents and don’t sweat it if you overwater or forget a step. Use apps like Planta to track care schedules or get tips. The act of nurturing something—watching it grow, even if slowly—is a soft reminder that you don’t need to rush or perfect everything.

Get Lost in Fiction (Or Create Your Own)

Reading and writing are intellectual and emotional lifelines, especially when you feel disconnected from yourself or others. Start with fiction that actually excites you, not what you feel you should be reading. Explore genres—thrillers, fantasy, slice-of-life—until one hooks you. If writing’s your thing, grab a cheap notebook and try a five-minute daily freewrite where you spill whatever’s in your head. No judgment, no editing, just you and the page. Over time, these minutes will stretch, and you might even uncover a voice you didn’t know you had.

Turn a Passion Into a Profession

Sometimes a hobby grabs you so hard that you can’t imagine doing anything else—and that’s when it’s worth exploring how to turn it into a full-blown career. Going back to school can open the door to specialized knowledge, mentorship, and credentials that give your passion some serious momentum. Consider pursuing a business degree to learn essential strategies if you want to start selling your creations or services. Online programs, especially, are a lifesaver for people juggling jobs or family, offering flexibility without sacrificing depth, and the right education can help you stand out in a crowded field.

Too often, people talk themselves out of trying something new because they’re worried they’ll be bad at it. But that’s kind of the point. Hobbies are meant to be low-stakes, high-reward playgrounds for your brain, your body, or your spirit—sometimes all three at once. Whether you’re painting badly or monetizing your new hobby by earning a business degree, you’re showing up for yourself in a way that matters. Give yourself permission to begin, and don’t be surprised when a spark of curiosity turns into something bigger, wilder, and more meaningful than you expected.

Unleash your best self with The Inkblotters! Dive into expert tips on skincare, beauty, and healthy living, all while indulging in a touch of intellectual inspiration.

Guest blog post by Stephanie Haywood, read her previous guest blog post HERE and HERE or visit her website: MY LIFE BOOST.

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The Biggest Summer Trends of 2025 (That Everyone Will Be Talking About)

Let’s be real: there’s nothing quite like summer. Longer days, warmer nights, and the perfect excuse to refresh your wardrobe, your playlist, and maybe even your smoothie order. And if you’re wondering what’s hot this summer (besides the weather), I’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re a trend chaser or just like knowing what’s out there, here are the biggest summer trends of 2025 that are taking over streets, feeds, and sandy beachside selfies.


1. Hyper-Color Is Back (But Grown-Up)

Remember those mood rings and color-changing shirts from the ’90s? Yeah, those are making a comeback—but elevated. Think sun-reactive accessories, UV-activated fabrics, and bold color palettes that shift depending on light and heat. It’s fun, it’s playful, and surprisingly chic.

👉 Hot tip: Look for pieces that change color in sunlight—it’s like a little science experiment you can wear.


2. “Quiet Luxury” Meets the Beach

The quiet luxury trend isn’t going anywhere, but for summer 2025, it’s gone coastal. Imagine: linen matching sets, neutral tones, minimal gold jewelry, and barely-there sandals. Effortless elegance meets vacation mode.

👉 Hot tip: Swap out loud logos for clean tailoring and soft, breathable fabrics. Think: Gwyneth Paltrow, but make it Malibu.


3. Digital Mermaidcore

Mermaidcore was already trending, but 2025’s version got a futuristic glow-up. We’re talking iridescent fabrics, sheer overlays, holographic eyeshadow, and accessories that shimmer like sea glass. It’s a little fantasy, a little Y2K, and very selfie-approved.

👉 Hot tip: Pair metallics with soft beach waves or slicked-back buns for that fresh-out-of-the-ocean look.


4. Eco-Everything

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore—it’s a lifestyle flex. This summer, eco-conscious fashion, biodegradable glitter, reusable everything, and even “slow travel” are front and center. People want to look good and feel good about their choices.

👉 Hot tip: Opt for vintage pieces, plant-based skincare, and reusable beach totes with actual personality.


5. Wellness-First Travel

Gone are the days of cramming in ten tourist spots in two days. Summer 2025 is all about travel that feels good—think yoga retreats, digital detox cabins, forest bathing, and travel that’s less “go, go, go” and more “ahhh, yes.” People are prioritizing experiences that recharge, not drain.

👉 Hot tip: When booking your summer getaway, look for places offering mindfulness experiences or locally guided nature immersions.


6. Mocktails > Cocktails?

Believe it: the sober-curious movement is still going strong. This summer, mocktails are having a serious glow-up. Think botanical spritzes, adaptogen-infused tonics, and drinks that look like they came out of a cocktail lab—but without the hangover.

👉 Hot tip: Try a sparkling hibiscus-lavender tonic or cucumber-ginger spritz at your next BBQ. Your liver will thank you.


Final Thoughts

Summer 2025 is all about vibes with intention. Whether you’re channeling mermaid energy, embracing minimalist elegance, or just swapping your margarita for a mood-boosting mocktail, the key is feeling good in what you wear, where you go, and what you do.

So pack your bags (or at least update your playlist)—this summer’s shaping up to be one for the books.

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4 Liver-Loving Foods That Help Cleanse and Support Your Body’s Detox Superhero

Let’s talk about your liver.

No, not in a scary, “you should detox now!” kind of way—but in a real, honest appreciation for this hard-working organ. Your liver does a lot behind the scenes. It filters your blood, breaks down toxins, helps with digestion, stores energy, and even regulates hormones. Basically, it’s your body’s built-in detox machine.

And just like any overworked machine, it deserves some maintenance. The good news? You don’t need a 7-day juice cleanse or fancy supplements. You can support your liver daily just by eating the right foods.

Here are four foods that naturally support and cleanse your liver—and yes, they’re tasty too:


1. Beets: The Bright Red Detox Buddy

Beets might not be everyone’s first love, but your liver is definitely a fan. These vibrant root veggies are packed with antioxidants, especially something called betaine, which helps your liver process toxins and flush them out more efficiently. They also support bile production—a key part of digestion and detoxification.

Easy tip: Roast them with olive oil, toss in a salad, or blend into a smoothie with berries and ginger.


2. Garlic: Small Clove, Big Impact

One clove of garlic might not seem like much, but don’t underestimate this pungent little powerhouse. Garlic is rich in sulfur compounds—which help activate liver enzymes that flush out toxins. It also contains selenium, a mineral that boosts antioxidant activity and protects the liver from damage.

Easy tip: Add minced garlic to stir-fries, pasta, roasted veggies, or make a garlic-lemon dressing.


3. Leafy Greens: Bitter but Better

Spinach, kale, arugula, dandelion greens… they’re all loaded with chlorophyll and plant compounds that support liver detox. They help neutralize heavy metals, clear out pesticides, and increase bile flow. Bitter greens like dandelion and mustard greens are especially good for stimulating liver function.

Easy tip: Throw them into a smoothie, sauté with garlic, or mix them into your omelet or wrap.


4. Avocados: The Creamy Protector

Not only are avocados creamy, satisfying, and Instagram-worthy—they’re also full of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that helps your liver cleanse itself. Plus, the healthy fats in avocados reduce liver inflammation and improve nutrient absorption.

Easy tip: Spread on toast, slice into salads, or blend into a chocolate avocado pudding (yes, it’s a thing!).


Final Thought: Keep It Simple, Keep It Natural

Your liver doesn’t need a crash cleanse. It needs consistent support. By adding these liver-loving foods into your meals regularly, you’re giving your body the tools it needs to detox naturally—no harsh fads required.

So next time you’re at the grocery store, think of your liver and throw a few of these into your cart. Your body will thank you (even if it doesn’t send a thank-you note).

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Book Review: House of Beth by Kerry Cullen

Haunted by the past, she finds the ghost is real.

PLOT SUMMARY:

After a heart-wrenching breakup with her girlfriend and a shocking incident at her job, Cassie flees her life as an overworked assistant in New York for her hometown in New Jersey, along the Delaware. There, she reconnects with her high school best friend, Eli, now a widowed father of two. Their bond reignites, and within a few short months, Cassie is married to Eli, living in his house in the woods, homeschooling the kids, and getting to know her reserved neighbor, Joan.

But Cassie’s fresh start is less idyllic than she’d hoped. She grapples with harm OCD, her mind haunted by gory, graphic images. And she’s afraid that she’ll never measure up to Eli’s late spouse, who was a committed homemaker and traditional wife. No matter what Cassie does, Beth’s shadow still permeates every corner of their home.

Soon, Cassie starts hearing a voice narrating the house’s secrets. As she listens, the voice grows stronger, guiding Cassie down a path to uncover the truth about Beth’s untimely death.

GRADE: B-

REVIEW:

Kerry Cullen’s House of Beth offers a fresh and compelling twist on the ghost story genre, blending elements of gothic mystery with psychological depth. The novel follows Cassie Jackson, a bisexual woman grappling with obsessive-compulsive disorder, who returns to her New Jersey hometown after a traumatic event in New York. There, she reconnects with her high school best friend, Eli, now a widowed father of two. As their relationship deepens, Cassie becomes entangled in the lingering presence of Eli’s late wife, Beth, whose ghost seems to haunt their home and Cassie’s psyche.

Cullen’s portrayal of Cassie’s internal struggles is poignant and evocative, capturing the complexities of identity, grief, and the search for belonging. The narrative’s dual perspectives—Cassie’s and Beth’s—add layers of intrigue and ambiguity, blurring the lines between reality and the supernatural. The atmospheric setting and the gradual revelation of Beth’s story create a hauntingly immersive experience.

However, as the novel progresses, some readers may find the plot’s developments increasingly implausible and disjointed. The introduction of late-stage twists can feel abrupt, detracting from the story’s earlier emotional resonance. Despite these narrative shifts, House of Beth remains a thought-provoking exploration of the boundaries between the living and the dead, and the stories we inherit and create.

*Thank you so much to NetGalley & Simon & Schuster for a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

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Spring 2025’s Best Beauty Trend: Skinimalism in Full Bloom

This spring, the top beauty trend isn’t about bold statements—it’s about dialing it back. Skinimalism, the art of embracing minimal makeup and radiant, healthy skin, is blooming everywhere from runways to TikTok. After seasons of full glam and heavy contouring, this trend celebrates a lighter, more breathable approach to beauty. Think sheer foundations, dewy finishes, and multitasking skincare-makeup hybrids that enhance rather than conceal.

At the heart of skinimalism is skincare—hydrated, glowing skin is the star of the show. Products like tinted serums, glow-boosting moisturizers, and lip oils are replacing traditional layers of foundation and powder. Blush is soft and diffused, highlighter is liquid and barely-there, and brows are brushed up with clear gel for a natural finish.

This pared-down routine not only saves time but also aligns with the growing preference for sustainable, skin-loving products. The result? A fresh, effortless look that feels just right for spring.

Whether you’re heading to brunch or a garden wedding, glowing, healthy skin is the best accessory you can wear. Less truly is more this season—and your skin will thank you.

Here are some standout product recommendations to complement the skinimalism trend this spring:

🌸 1. Tinted Moisturizer:

ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
This clean, lightweight formula offers sheer coverage, hydration, and sun protection—all in one.

🌸 2. Dewy Glow:

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops
Use as a serum or highlighter for that luminous, lit-from-within finish.

🌸 3. Cream Blush:

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush
Buildable and easy to blend, it gives cheeks a healthy, natural flush without feeling heavy.

🌸 4. Lip Tint/Oil:

Dior Lip Glow Oil
A cult favorite for a glossy, hydrating hint of color that adapts to your lips’ tone.

🌸 5. Brow Gel:

Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter
Clear, strong hold for brushed-up, fluffy brows that stay put all day.

🌸 6. Multipurpose Stick:

NUDESTIX Nudies All Over Face Color
A creamy stick you can use on eyes, cheeks, and lips—perfect for travel or a 5-minute routine.

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Book Review: The Butcher’s Daughter: The Hitherto Untold Story of Mrs. Lovett by David Demchuk and Corinne Leigh Clark


“They only ever remember the barber. Never the woman who cleaned up after him.”

PLOT SUMMARY:

London, 1887: At the abandoned apartment of a missing young woman, a dossier of evidence is collected, ordered chronologically, and sent to the Chief Inspector of the London Metropolitan Police. It contains a frightening correspondence between an inquisitive journalist, Miss Emily Gibson, and the woman Gibson thinks may be the infamous Mrs. Lovett—Sweeney Todd’s accomplice, “a wicked woman” who baked men into pies and sold them in her pie shop on Fleet Street. The talk of London Town—even decades after her horrendous misdeeds.

As the woman relays the harrowing account of her life in the unruly and perilous streets of Victorian London, her missives unlock an intricate mystery that brings Miss Gibson closer to the truth, even as that truth may cost her everything. A hair-raising and breathtaking novel for fans of Sarah Waters and Gregory Maguire, The Butcher’s Daughter is an irresistible literary thriller that draws richly from historical sources and shines new light on the woman behind the counter of the most disreputable pie shop ever known.

GRADE: A

REVIEW:

The Butcher’s Daughter: The Hitherto Untold Story of Mrs. Lovett is a darkly enthralling reimagining of a familiar tale, breathing vivid life into the shadowy corners of Victorian London through the eyes of a woman long dismissed as a footnote in the Sweeney Todd legend. The authors craft a richly layered portrait of Mrs. Lovett—not just as a pie-maker with a macabre secret, but as a deeply human, complex figure shaped by hardship, ambition, and survival.

The novel is gripping from the first page, blending historical fiction with gothic suspense in a voice that is both lyrical and razor-sharp. Lasley deftly explores the power dynamics of class, gender, and violence, allowing readers to sympathize with Lovett without excusing her choices. The pacing is impeccable, and the atmosphere—fog-laced alleys, greasy kitchens, and shadowed cellars—is as immersive as it is haunting.

What makes this book so engaging is its ability to transform a well-known villain into a compelling protagonist whose story demands to be heard. The Butcher’s Daughter is as deliciously dark as one of Mrs. Lovett’s infamous pies—and just as impossible to resist. A must-read for fans of historical fiction with a gothic twist.

I experienced this as an audiobook and truly recommend checking it out in this format as it made the story and characters come to life, all the narrators were very brilliant.

*Thank you so much to NetGalley & Hell’s Hundred for the audiobook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

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Book Review: Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman

When one thing leaves your house or heart, it makes room for another to take its place. This is why it’s unwise to make solid statues inside. A statue takes up space without moving, without flowing, without growing.

PLOT SUMMARY:

To eight-year-old Bela, her family is her world. There’s Mommy, Daddo, and Grandma Ruth. But there is also Other Mommy, a malevolent entity who asks her every day: “Can I go inside your heart?”

When horrifying incidents around the house signal that Other Mommy is growing tired of asking Bela the question over and over, Bela understands that unless she says yes, her family will soon pay.

Other Mommy is getting restless, stronger, bolder. Only the bonds of family can keep Bela safe, but other incidents show cracks in her parents’ marriage. The safety Bela relies on is about to unravel.

But Other Mommy needs an answer.

GRADE: B-

REVIEW:

Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman is a chilling novel that delivers a claustrophobic, psychological horror grounded in the mundane. Told from the perspective of young Bela, the story captures the eerie atmosphere of a home slowly being overtaken by an unseen presence. The “creepy entity” that Bela sees—and her parents do not—lurks at the edges of their house, at first ambiguous and unsettling, then increasingly menacing. Malerman plays expertly with perspective, making readers question what is real and what is imagined.

The novel excels in tone and mood. The tension is slow-building, and the child’s voice is authentically rendered, adding a layer of vulnerability. The idea of a malevolent figure quietly “moving in” is deeply unnerving, made worse by the adults’ dismissal of Bela’s warnings.

However, while the setup is gripping, the middle portion becomes repetitive. The narrative relies on similar beats—Bela sees the entity, her parents so see the entity and continue trying to escape it—which dilutes the suspense over time. The lack of escalation or variety in how the threat manifests causes the tension to plateau before the conclusion. Still, Incidents Around the House is a creepy, well-written tale, just one that might have benefitted from tighter pacing or a bit more narrative progression.

*Thank you so much to NetGalley & Del Rey for a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

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Out Now: Panico! Marie Antoinette’s Journey During the Reign of Terror by Azzurra Nox

The dream is dead.

And all that’s left is the nightmare.

Step into the heart of revolutionary France with Panico! Marie Antoinette’s Journey During the Reign of Terror—a gripping, gothic reimagining of the doomed queen’s final days. Blending historical horror with psychological suspense, the poetry collection paints a haunting portrait of Marie Antoinette as she navigates betrayal, fear, and the crumbling world around her. With lush prose and chilling atmosphere, this poetry collection explores the blurred lines between reality and madness as the guillotine looms ever closer. Perfect for fans of eerie historical fiction, Panico! is a visceral descent into the mind of a queen on the edge of history—and sanity.

Purchase your copy of the book HERE!

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