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Book Review: This Cruise Sucks by Nico Bell

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PLOT SUMMARY:

What has eight arms, two tentacles, and one gnarly appetite? A Vampire Squid.

While enjoying a much-needed cruise vacation, Nora and her friend Tori spend their days downing endless umbrella cocktails and their nights rockin’ out to gnarly bands—mainly Vampire Weekend. The 24-hour buffet is constantly calling their names, but unfortunately, something answers the call—a giant squid with an appetite for cruise passengers. But Nora and Tori have other problems.

Their status as BFFs is hanging on by bikini thread, and this vacay should have given them time to repair it. But no. Of course, an annoying monstrous creature from the depths of the dark ocean just had to rise up to the surface, feast on terrified humans, and ruin their girl bonding time.

Thanks a lot, Captain Sucky Legs.

GRADE: A

REVIEW:

What I love about Nico Bell’s books is how she perfectly balances fun and fear—her stories are packed with creepy thrills and genuinely well-written characters. This one is no exception, and honestly, it’s the ideal summer beach read (though fair warning: it might make you think twice about cruise ships and squids).

Best friends Tori and Nora are living it up on a cruise, jamming to Vampire Weekend, when things take a wild turn—they’re attacked by a giant vampire squid. Yes, really. From there, it’s nonstop action, packed to the gills (pun absolutely intended) with horror, heart, and high-stakes survival.

The friendship at the center of it all keeps you grounded, even when the gore starts flying—and there’s plenty of that too. It’s the kind of gory, scary fun that begs to be made into a movie. I’d be first in line for it!

If you’re looking for a horror story that’s fast-paced, original, and just a blast to read, this one’s a must.

*Thank you so much to the author for a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

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3 Makeup Must-Haves Your Bag Should Never Be Without

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Let’s be real, your makeup bag doesn’t need to be bursting at the seams to be effective. Whether you’re a beauty minimalist or a glam queen on the go, there are a few ride-or-die items every makeup bag must have. Here are the top three that can save the day (and your face):

1. Concealer: Your Tiny Magic Wand

Late night? Surprise breakout? Concealer’s got your back. A creamy, blendable concealer instantly brightens under-eyes, covers blemishes, and smooths out redness—all in seconds.

Pro tip: Pick a shade slightly lighter than your skin tone for under the eyes, and a true match for spot correcting.

2. Mascara: Instant Eye-Opener

If you only have time for one thing, make it mascara. It wakes up your whole face and adds that flirty, fresh energy—no eyeshadow required.

Bonus: A waterproof formula doubles as a lash curler’s best friend and stays put through sweat, tears, and surprise rain.

3. Multi-Use Lip & Cheek Tint: The Glow Getter

A good lip & cheek tint is your secret weapon for looking alive. Dab a bit on your cheeks and lips for a dewy, fresh-faced flush that’s low-effort and high-impact.

Why it’s a win: One product, two jobs, zero clutter.

Final Swipe

You don’t need a full vanity in your purse. With just these three MVPs, you’re ready for whatever your day (or night) throws at you. Less mess, more magic!

Want a version of this post formatted for Instagram or with product recs? Just say the word! 💄✨

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5 Easy (and Actually Enjoyable) Tips for Mindfulness 🧘‍♀️✨

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Mindfulness gets a bad rap sometimes, such as you have to sit perfectly still in total silence for hours while your brain screams about laundry. Spoiler alert: You don’t! Mindfulness can be chill, fun, and totally doable, even if you have a wildly overactive brain and a packed schedule.

Here are 5 easy tips to help you tap into the moment—no incense required:

1. Start with Just One Minute

Seriously. One. Minute.
You don’t have to meditate on a mountaintop. Just take 60 seconds to close your eyes, breathe in, breathe out, and exist. That’s it. That’s mindfulness. And yes, it still counts even if your dog is barking.

Try this: Breathe in for 4, hold for 4, breathe out for 6. Instant calm.

2. Turn Your Coffee Break into a Mini Ritual ☕

Instead of scrolling while you sip, actually taste your coffee. Smell it. Hold the warm mug. Pretend you’re in a cozy indie movie montage.

Bonus: This works with tea, smoothies, or even reheated leftovers. It’s about being there with your senses.

3. Name 5 Things You Can See Right Now

Wherever you are, pause and look around. Say (or think) five things you can see. Like: “plant, socks, water bottle, weird cloud, slightly judgmental cat.”

Why it works: It grounds you in the present—and gives your racing thoughts something fun to do.

4. Do One Thing… Slowly

We multitask like pros, but mindfulness is all about singletasking (yes, that’s a word now). Brush your teeth like it’s your life’s purpose. Fold laundry like you’re on a spa retreat. Walk like you’re floating.

It feels weird at first. Then it feels amazing.

5. Laugh (Yes, That Counts!)

Mindfulness isn’t all serious monk mode. Laughing at a meme, enjoying a silly moment, or giggling at your own messy bun is 100% being present. Joy is a powerful form of mindfulness—don’t skip it.

Final Thought:

Mindfulness isn’t about becoming some perfectly zen guru. It’s about noticing your life while you’re living it. Even if that means finding peace in the middle of a Ulta aisle. 🛒✨

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3 Timeless Pieces Every Classy Wardrobe Needs

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Building a classy wardrobe isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about curating a collection of pieces that exude elegance, versatility, and confidence. Whether you’re attending a formal event, heading to the office, or grabbing brunch, a few timeless staples can carry you through any occasion.

Here are three essential items that belong in every refined wardrobe:

1. The Perfect Blazer

A well-fitted blazer instantly elevates any outfit. Throw it over a T-shirt and jeans for a polished casual look, or pair it with tailored trousers for a power outfit. Look for a blazer in a neutral color like black, navy, or beige that flatters your shape and can be styled up or down.

Why it’s essential: It blends structure with sophistication and makes layering effortless year-round.

2. Classic Tailored Trousers

Tailored pants are the quiet powerhouse of a classy wardrobe. They add polish to any look without trying too hard. Go for high-quality fabrics and a flattering cut—high-waisted, straight-leg, or wide-leg depending on your body type and personal style.

Style tip: Stick with colors like black, grey, or camel for maximum versatility.

3. A Little Black Dress (LBD)

It’s iconic for a reason. The Little Black Dress is the ultimate go-to piece for dinners, weddings, work functions, and impromptu nights out. Choose a silhouette that suits your figure—something you feel both comfortable and confident in.

Make it your own: Accessorize with statement jewelry, a bold clutch, or a pair of standout heels to take it from simple to stunning.

Final Touch

The key to a classy wardrobe isn’t having more, it’s having better. Focus on quality, fit, and timeless design. With just these three pieces, you can build countless looks that feel effortless and refined.

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Book Review: The Rotting Room by Viggy Parr Hampton

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God is not present in this place.

PLOT SUMMARY:

Sister Rafaela, a newcomer to the cloistered Sisters of Divine Innocence, yearns for redemption from her horrific past. However, her new abbey, bound by a vow of silence and a disturbing burial ritual, hides its own sinister secrets.

When a mysterious stranger arrives and dies soon after, her body resists decomposition, sparking fevered claims of sainthood among the nuns… but Rafaela suspects something far darker.

As the abbey teeters on the edge of madness, Rafaela and local priest Father Bruno race to uncover whether the Sisters of Divine Innocence are graced by a divine miracle—or consumed by unspeakable evil.

GRADE: A-

REVIEW:

This was my first time reading Viggy Parr Hampton and wasn’t sure what to expect. However, I’ve been on a historical horror kick lately and I truly enjoyed this novel. The Rotting Room is an unrelentingly bleak and atmospheric horror novel that grips the reader from the first page. The setting, an isolated convent swallowed by shadows and unspeakable secrets, seeps into every scene with suffocating dread. Hampton masterfully crafts a world where time feels suspended, and every toll of the bell or flicker of candlelight becomes a harbinger of something deeply wrong. The rot isn’t present solely in the literal rotting room, but it’s in the characters, the history, and the very air.

The novel’s sense of unease is nearly unbearable at times, but in the best way. Hampton sustains a tone of quiet terror, opting for psychological unraveling over cheap scares. As the protagonist Rafaela explores deeper into the Sisters of Divine Innocence and the newcomer Berta, the line between reality and hallucination begins to blur. The narrative plays heavily with isolation, guilt, and memory, keeping the reader on edge throughout.

If there’s a flaw, it lies in the repetition of certain scenes, but seeing that a nun’s life is very repetitive, there was no way around it. Still, this minor issue doesn’t undercut the novel’s power. The Rotting Room is a compelling, claustrophobic descent into rot and ruin that lingers long after the final page.

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5 Things You Definitely Need When You’re Traveling

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Whether you’re heading across the globe or taking a weekend road trip, traveling is always an adventure. But it can quickly turn stressful if you forget the essentials. Here are five things you absolutely must have with you when you hit the road (or skies):

1. A Valid Passport or ID

This one might seem obvious, but it’s the most critical item—especially if you’re traveling internationally. Always check that your passport is up to date (some countries require 6 months of validity beyond your return date). For domestic trips, make sure your driver’s license or national ID is valid and compliant with local regulations (like REAL ID in the U.S.).

Pro tip: Keep a digital copy stored securely in the cloud in case you lose it.

2. Chargers & Power Bank

Your phone is your map, translator, camera, entertainment, and emergency contact device. Don’t let it die on you. A compact charger and a reliable power bank are lifesavers, especially if you’re on long flights, train rides, or exploring remote areas.

Bonus: Bring a universal travel adapter if you’re heading overseas—outlet types vary by country.

3. Comfortable, Weather-Appropriate Clothing

Pack smart, not heavy. Think layers, versatile outfits, and shoes that can handle walking all day. Check the forecast before you go, and always throw in a light jacket—it’s amazing how often you’ll need it, even in warm places.

Don’t forget: A hat, sunglasses, and a swimsuit can come in handy more often than you’d expect.

4. Essential Toiletries (Travel-Size)

Even if you’re staying in a hotel, it’s good to have your own basics: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and any personal hygiene items. TSA-friendly travel-size containers will save you trouble at the airport.

If you wear contacts or have a skincare routine: Don’t risk relying on hotel amenities—bring your must-haves.

5. A Small Travel Wallet or Organizer

Keep your essentials—passport, ID, credit cards, travel insurance, cash, and tickets—in one easy-to-reach place. Travel wallets help you stay organized and prevent that frantic “where’s my passport?!” moment at the boarding gate.

Helpful tip: RFID-blocking wallets add an extra layer of protection from digital pickpocketing.

Final Thoughts

Traveling light is great, but traveling smart is even better. These five items are your foundation—once you have them, you can adapt to almost any situation. So pack with intention, stay flexible, and enjoy the journey!

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Book Review: Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild

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SHE THOUGHT IT WAS FATE. I KNEW IT WASN’T….

PLOT SUMMARY:

Honor seems to have everything: she adores her bright and beautiful daughter, Chloe, and her charming, handsome husband, Tom, even if he works one hundred hours a week. Yet Honor’s longing for another baby threatens to eclipse all of it―until a shocking event changes their lives forever.

Years later, Tom makes a decision that ripples through their families’ lives in ways he could never have foreseen. As the consequences of that fateful choice unfold, two women’s paths become irrevocably intertwined. But when old love clashes with new, who will be left standing? And what happens when your secrets come back to haunt you?

Blending a page-turning moral dilemma with satisfying emotional poignancy, Finding Grace is a sweeping love story that explores the price of a new beginning, how the ghosts of our past shape our future, and whether redemption can be found in the wreckage of what we’ve lost.

GRADE: B-

REVIEW:

Loretta Rothschild’s debut novel opens with a gripping, almost cinematic first chapter that immediately pulls the reader into the heart of chaos. A tragic accident, a mysterious letter, and a haunting revelation promise a story charged with emotion and suspense. Rothschild demonstrates a strong command of atmosphere and intrigue in the opening pages, leaving readers eager to unravel the threads of the protagonist’s troubled past.

Unfortunately, that momentum doesn’t carry through the rest of the novel. As the chapters unfold, the story loses its intensity, gradually slipping into a meandering pace. What begins as a compelling mystery fades into a slow-moving narrative filled with underdeveloped plotlines and repetitive introspection. The characters, especially Grace herself, become increasingly difficult to connect with often making choices that feel inconsistent or frustratingly opaque. Secondary characters are similarly underwhelming, lacking depth or relatability.

While Rothschild clearly has a talent for setting the stage, Finding Grace ultimately fails to deliver on the promise of its opening. The emotional resonance and urgency of the first chapter dwindle as the book progresses, leaving a sense of disappointment. For readers who crave character-driven stories with a strong, sustained arc, this novel may not fully satisfy.

*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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Celebrate Juneteenth with a Scare: 3 Black Horror Films That Speak Volumes

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Watching Black horror on Juneteenth is a powerful way to celebrate Black creativity, resilience, and storytelling. These films explore cultural fears, history, and identity through a unique lens, turning horror into a platform for reflection and empowerment. From social commentary to genre-bending thrills, Black horror challenges stereotypes while honoring the Black experience—making it both entertaining and meaningful.

SINNERS

Sinners delivers gripping drama, dark secrets, and moral twists that keep you hooked. With complex characters and intense storytelling, it’s a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and suspense.

THE BLACKENING

The Blackening blends sharp satire with horror-comedy, hilariously flipping horror tropes while exploring Black culture. It’s clever, socially aware, and full of surprises—perfect for fans of genre mashups!

NOPE

Nope is a bold, genre-defying thriller from Jordan Peele, blending sci-fi, horror, and social commentary. It’s visually stunning, thought-provoking, and full of suspenseful, unforgettable moments. Don’t miss it!

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Book Review: Bless Your Heart by Lindy Ryan

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Rise and shine. The Evans women have some undead to kill.

PLOT SUMMARY:

It’s 1999 in Southeast Texas and the Evans women, owners of the only funeral parlor in town, are keeping steady with…normal business. The dead die, you bury them. End of story. That’s how Ducey Evans has done it for the last eighty years, and her progeny—Lenore the experimenter and Grace, Lenore’s soft-hearted daughter, have run Evans Funeral Parlor for the last fifteen years without drama. Ever since That Godawful Mess that left two bodies in the ground and Grace raising her infant daughter Luna, alone.

But when town gossip Mina Jean Murphy’s body is brought in for a regular burial and she rises from the dead instead, it’s clear that the Strigoi—the original vampire—are back. And the Evans women are the ones who need to fight back to protect their town.

As more folks in town turn up dead and Deputy Roger Taylor begins asking way too many questions, Ducey, Lenore, Grace, and now Luna, must take up their blades and figure out who is behind the Strigoi’s return. As the saying goes, what rises up, must go back down. But as unspoken secrets and revelations spill from the past into the present, the Evans family must face that sometimes, the dead aren’t the only things you want to keep buried.

GRADE: A

REVIEW:

This was my first time reading a book from Lindy Ryan and it was absolutely fun! Bless Your Heart is an absolute gem, a Southern Gothic romp packed with horror, heart, and hilarity. At the center of it all are the Evans women, who are nothing short of a delight. They’re sharp-tongued, fiercely loyal, and totally unapologetic about their witchy ways. But it’s Great-Grandmother Ducey who absolutely steals the show. She’s tough as nails, wise in that wonderfully unfiltered elder way, and has more sass in her pinky finger than most people have in their whole body. Honestly, I’d read a whole spinoff just about her.

The story mixes scares and snark effortlessly. One minute you’re shivering from a ghoul attack, the next you’re laughing out loud at a perfectly timed one-liner or sarcastic spell. Speaking of ghouls, Ryan gives them a fresh twist that feels original and creepy in all the best ways. They’re not your garden-variety undead; there’s a lore here that’s genuinely cool and elevates the horror.

What makes this book really work is the sense of family and love that grounds all the supernatural chaos. The Evans women might fight monsters, but they do it together—and with style. It’s spooky, it’s funny, and it’s got heart. Highly recommend, especially for fans of Grady Hendrix.

I strongly recommend diving into this one as an audiobook—the narrator doesn’t just read the story, she brings it to life. Every character leaps off the page (or speaker), from Ducey’s razor-sharp wit to the eerie growl of the ghouls. It’s an electrifying performance that pulls you straight into the heart of the chaos. You won’t just listen—you’ll live it.

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

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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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