Recent Reads Reviewed #28

 

The Twelve Dogs of Christmas by Alison Ritchie - 4/5

This picture book caught my eye because it featured Christmas and dogs. It’s a remake of the twelve days of Christmas poem, with a twist. I can see this book appealing to all ages, and enjoyed being read aloud. The illustrations are adorable, and I found it very festive.

The Library by Sarah Stewart - 3/5

In this children’s picture book, we follow Elizabeth Brown who entered the world short-sighted, shy and ready to fit into the role of a stereotypical book worm. While the book gives a cosy, warm-hearted impression of bibliophiles; I found the story quite dated and cliché. The illustrations were lovely, and I can see most book lovers taking something from the story.

Hygge and Kisses by Clara Christensen - 5/5

Hygge was a big deal a few years back now. I’ve read a few related non-fiction books and I found it refreshing to read some fiction. I thoroughly enjoyed this, and having known a bit about hygge previously, the author really pulled off that warm, cosy feeling. It was lovely, escapist, filled with friendship and fresh starts.

The basic premise is set around Bo, who wanting to forget her worries for a while takes a trip to Denmark. She finds herself sharing a holiday cottage with a group of people and due to the bad weather, they get to know each other through the joy of hygge.

Claude The Magnificent by Chris Capstick - 4/5

Firstly, this is a beautifully presented book and the illustrations are lovely. Claude the Magnificent is an artiste in search of success in Paris. When his hat creations grow bigger, so does his ego and an important lesson is discovered. The moral of the story seemed quite mature for a picture book but I would imagine children warming to Claude the cat.

Coleen's Real Style by Coleen Rooney - 4/5

Without making assumptions about the author’s controversy in the public eye at the time, I think this is lovely book about fashion, beauty and having the confidence to feel good.

Coleen has an eye for what looks good, and I enjoyed her outlook on styling. Most of her ideas are classic and timeless so this book still feels worthy of a read now. There were a few references to fashion at the time though, and sometimes stock images were used, which was a little disappointing.

Overall, if you want something fun, and girly to read about fashion, and much more, I would recommend you give this one a try.

Slow: Finding Peace and Purpose in a Hectic World by Jo Peters - 4/5

This was a wonderful book, filled with interesting quotes, pictures and tips to help you live a slower lifestyle. It covers well-being, relationships, food, nature, etc. I could see it appealing to anybody interested in the topic. It might be a good one to read before bed as I found it relaxing and easy to finish.

A New York Christmas by Anne Perry - 5/5

Anne Perry, is a prolific, Victorian crime writer I didn’t previously know a lot about. This was my first read by her which I picked up from the library. I was interested to read about what it was like living in New York in the Victorian era and dip my toes into a light crime genre.

I like anything set around Christmas, and although it didn’t feel overly festive, the atmospheric account of New York in winter was beautifully written. The crime aspect was just right for my taste, as I don’t like anything too heavy, but it kept me engaged and on my toes. One of my favourites from the month!

Are you currently reading anything?

Do any of these books sound appealing to you? :-) Xx

Superdrug Bloom Body Mists

 

Hi again. I bought these body sprays a while back now and have been using them frequently. I’ve done a few reviews of body sprays on my blog; the good thing about them is they are fairly inexpensive and more commonly cruelty-free than perfumes.

You can buy these bloom body sprays from Superdrug. They have a wide collection of fragrances so you will be spoilt for choice. I went for the dark berry and jasmine as well as driftwood and sea salt. Both are absolutely lovely, and the quality feels better than some of the cheaper brands. 

They are priced at £6 for two at the moment and I feel they have lasting power once applied to the skin. I’ve been eyeing up the pink peony and cashmere for my next purchase. They would make wonderful gifts too. They are vegan and have the leaping bunny logo.

Have you ever tried bloom body mists?

 Do these scents sound appealing to you? :-) Xx

Film & Music Reviewed #4

 

Music // Just The Beginning by Grace VanderWaal

This was probably my favourite album purchase from 2019 although the release date was a couple of years before then. I like nearly all the songs on the album but my favourites are Moonlight, and So Much More Than This. I found her voice and the general sound of the album unique and quirky.

Rating: 5/5

Music // Superwoman by Rebecca Ferguson

Another 2019 favourite, I can always rely on Rebecca for music that I know I will love. I’ve liked everyone of her albums to date. Originally Rebecca became well known on a music reality TV show, years back now. Her sound is soulful and her lyrics are often empowering. Bones and Stars are a few of my album favourites.

Rating: 5/5

Film // Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again 

Sophie Sheridan learns more about her mother Donna's history on the island of Kalokairi with her three possible fathers as she reopens the family hotel.

I haven’t watched the first Mamma Mia until recently on TV but my Nan bought me Mamma Mia two on DVD for my birthday and I thought it was fabulous. I appreciated the costume design, music, and breath-taking scenery. This is one of my favourite musicals.

Rating: 5/5

Film // Paddington 2

Paddington takes up a job to accumulate enough money to buy the perfect gift for his aunt on her 100th birthday, but it gets taken.

Sequels can often be a bit hit and miss but this was such an entertaining film, and as good as the first film. Paddington’s character was well done, and I liked his sweet voice.

Rating: 5/5

Do you have any recommendations for me?

What music and films have you been reaching for lately? :-) Xx

Birthday Present Haul 2020

Hope my readers are doing well. It was my birthday recently, and I got some lovely things from my family which I was grateful for. I ordered some bits beforehand as well such as books and CDs. I received some beautiful cards which were special to me. My favourite gift item were the books, as I look forward to having new reading material.

My Mum bought me a beautiful beret, in a purple colour which I have already started wearing. My brother got me some toiletries including a soap scrub which I haven’t tried yet. My Dad got me a game which I have played before, it’s called the yes and no game. I hope you enjoyed this post. My birthday was fairly quiet, but nice, and it gave me some new things to keep me busy during the lockdown. 

Have I given you any gift inspiration? Do we have similar taste in something? :-) Xx

Recent Reads Reviewed #27

Lagom: The Swedish Art of Balanced Living by Linnea Dunne - 3/5

Lagom is a term which describes: “not too little, not too much, just right”. The book promises to reduce your environmental impact, help you become a more conscious consumer and much more, but overall, I felt this read didn’t quite meet my expectations. While the illustrations were pretty; occasionally snippets were interesting; there was too much facts and figures which I found a little dull. The book is beautifully presented however; maybe I’ll try a different author on the same topic.

Katie Morag and the Dancing Class by Mairi Hedderwick - 3/5

This was a sweet story about a young girl called Katie, who grudgingly attends a ballet class but would much rather be outside wearing her wellington boots. Very family oriented which I loved, and centered in the west coast of Scotland; we get a feel of what it’s like to live there. I see myself continuing with the series.

Winter Wishes and Other Stories by Emma Thomson - 4/5

A simple Christmas time read which I can see appealing to girly girls. We follow a group of fairy friends in three festive and fun short stories. The fairies develop their problem-solving skills and find new friendships along the way. I’ve read a few books by this author and this one was one of my favourites.

Five Go to Smuggler's Top by Enid Blyton - 4/5

Enid Blyton has become one of my favorite authors. I remember reading a few of her titles as a child despite not being the most avid of readers but in the past couple of years I’ve been more interested in them. Originally written in the 50’s I found this era a delight to learn about. The story of the famous five staying at an old house during their school holiday had a darker undertone in places, and at points I found gripping to read. I would recommend this book as well as the other books I have read so far in the series.

The Magician's Nephew by C.S. Lewis - 5/5

The first in the Chronicles of Narnia series was nothing short of outstanding. We follow two children; Digory and Polly, who discover a secret passage to the house next door which leads to a fascinating adventure. This book was beautifully written and I can see why it’s a classic. I’m highly anticipating reading the remainder of the series.

Conscious Creativity: Look, Connect, Create by Philippa Stanton - 5/5

This book is absolutely, beautifully presented, and would make the perfect gift for anyone interested in the arts. I thoroughly enjoyed the authors perspective on creativity, as she had lots of original ideas. I often have issues with interactive worksheets in books but these were well done. Included are generous amounts of colourful and inviting photography. I dare you not to be inspired. 

100 Ways to Take Better Landscape Photographs by Guy Edwardes - 5/5

I wanted to improve my photography skills; maybe learn a few tips and tricks so I loaned this particular book from the library. There was a generous amount of information included and I learned a lot. The format of the book worked well, for example: the one hundred mini chapters, each with a different skill to be mastered. I’m hoping to apply the knowledge I have learnt into my upcoming landscape study.

Do you have any recommendations for me?

What are you currently reading? :-) Xx