Have you done a mid-year reading check-in yet? 📚
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What a wild year 2022 has been so far 😵‍💫 I've found new favorite authors, made progress on my original TBR, checked out some great backlist books, and hit some super exciting goals! 🙌🏼 I'm not going to *just* share my faves or least faves, but instead I'm going to share some of the fun stats from my reading year so far! 🤎
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- Out of the 30 books I just *HAD TO* read this year, I've read 24
- Out of my numerical goal of 120 for the whole year, I've read 119
- I've rated 44 books with 4.5/5 stars (hence my struggle when someone asks for a favorite from the year so far)
- I've read 16 ARCs from 12 different publishers (this makes me want to bawl with happiness because this was such a massive goal for me when I began book blogging!)
- I've participated in 10 buddy-reads
- I've added 38 books to my shelves (either purchased by me after I read and loved a book, given as a gift, or sent by a generous author/publisher)
- I've discovered that there's a chance I *might* like romance more than fantasy now and that's totally okay!
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What has your reading looked like in 2022? ☕️ 
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#lightacademiaaesthetic #lightacademia #cozyaesthetic #bookcommunity #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #cozybookstagram #bookaesthetic #booktography #bookphotography #vintagemood #bookseverywhere #hyggebookstyle #quietshadesofbrown #bookmoments #ofcosymoments #booksandcoffee #coffeeandbooks #fortheloveofreading #bookrecommendations #booksuggestions #booksonbooks #booknookstagram #midyearreadingchallenge #readinggoals #storygraph #readingstats #perfectespressopour
Which of your childhood favorites would you like t Which of your childhood favorites would you like to see reimagined? 📖
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When I found out that GALLANT had The Secret Garden vibes, I was really excited because that was one of my favorites as a kid ⛲️ I think it would be really neat to see this story retold by a few other authors as well (looking at you, Marissa Meyer) 🙌🏼
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Some of the other stories I loved as a kid that I'd like to see "adulted" are:
👑 A Little Princess
🧞‍♂️ Aladdin
 🐁 Stuart Little (it could be cute okay? like some kind of fantasy?)
👒 Madeline
⚜️ Rumplestiltskin (I've only seen this done once and I wasn’t obsessed so I need more!)
☂️ Mary Poppins
🐎 Misty of Chincoteague
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Did you enjoy any of those stories as a kid? 🤎 
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#veschwab #gallant #veschwabfeatures #schwabstagram #readersofinstagram #booksofig #bookgrammer #bookgram #instabooks #bookgasm #fantasybooks #bookishfeatures #booktography #booklover #bibliophilelife #readersofig #readersgonnaread #bookaesthetic #instareads #readerlife #bookishlove #bookstagram #thesecretgarden #retelling #90sbooks #childhoodbooks #childhoodbooksrevisited #bookflatlay
Why did you join bookstagram? 📖 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Why did you join bookstagram? 📖
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Long story short, I joined bookstagram in 2020 because I love books and I love talking about books, but I never had a space to do that 🤷🏻‍♀️ After years of fashion blogging and feeling out of place because of my interests, I wound up on this side of IG and realized that it felt like home 🤎
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I schemed up a name (something to do with coffee and books that didn't have the words "coffee" or "books" in it), took a few photos, created a profile, and went to town 🙌🏼 It wasn't long before I completely FELL IN LOVE with the supportive community, safe space to find new books and talk about the ones I love, and really cultivate my photography skills (which had been lying dormant for far too long) 🙈
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Now, I'm thrilled to have connected with favorite authors, created my own hashtag (hey there #perfectespressopour ☕️), reviewed incredible books, launched my own line of merch, and made tons of new friends 🫶🏼 When I begin to feel down about the numbers or the lack of inspiration, I remind myself of why I started in the first place and I find myself falling in love all over again 🥹
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Thank you for being part of my bookstagram journey 📚
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#cozyaesthetic #mybeigelife #bookcommunity #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #fortheloveofreading #bookaesthetic #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #cozyvibes #cozycore #cozylife #hyggebookstyle #coffeecoffeecoffee #coffeeandbooks #bookstagram #booktography #bookflatlay #booksuggestions #bookrecommendations #booksta #bookphotography #bookswithmagic #booksaremagic #booknerdigan
Tell me your most recent "new-to-you" fave author Tell me your most recent "new-to-you" fave author and which book made you fall in love with their work 📚
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A couple months back, I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of The Wonderland Trials by @saraellawrites... and I immediately fell head over heels in love 😍 Needless to say, I instantly added her entire backlist to my TBR 🙈
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Lately, I've been feeling a bit disappointed with fantasy (which has always been my favorite genre) 😕 It seems like each time I pick one up, I'm either completely uninterested in the story or it just falls flat - but The Wonderland Trials absolutely blew me away! 🤯 If you're looking for something that really stands out amongst the rest, you certainly need to pick this one up! 🫶🏼
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Have you read any great Alice in Wonderland reimaginings? 🐇 
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Recommend me an underrated queer book! 🏳️‍🌈
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In my world, every month is #pridemonth and I always, always have queer books on my TBR (not just white mlm, but a wide range of lgbtqia+ stories) 🙌🏼 It's important to me to constantly be diversifying my shelves, learning more about the people around me, and continuing to create a safe environment for everyone in my little corner of the web 🤎
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My goal for June was to pack my TBR with as many queer books as I could in CELEBRATION of Pride Month, so I've already read 4 books with lgbtq rep:
🦉 Wild is the Witch by Rachel Griffin
🌎 The Never Tilting World by Rin Chupeco
📺 The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun
🌌 Written in the Stars by Alexandria Bellefluer
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I'm currently reading 3:
🫖 A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers
🩸 Blood Like Magic by Liselle Sambury
🖌 Portrait of a Thief by Grace D Li
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 And I have 2 more on my immediate list:
🥀 Malice by Heather Walter
☀️ Black Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse
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Have you read any of these? 📚 
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Favorite Shadow and Bone character? 🦌 ⠀⠀⠀ Favorite Shadow and Bone character? 🦌
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I'm officially considering this Shadow and Bone week, between celebrating the 10th anniversary of the book and finding out about Ben narrating the Demon in the Wood audiobook! 🥂 
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Also, catch me counting down the days until when I get to see my babies on-screen again (can we get a season 2 premiere date, please?) 📺
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To answer my own question, Genya is my very favorite Shadow and Bone character 🤍 In fact, I have plans for a Genya tattoo in the near future 🙌🏼
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Are you as excited for the audiobook and season 2 of the show as I am? 🤩 
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#lightacademiaaesthetic #lightacademia #cozyaesthetic #bookcommunity #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #cozybookstagram #bookaesthetic #booktography #bookphotography #vintagemood #bookseverywhere #hyggebookstyle #quietshadesofbrown #bookmoments #ofcosymoments #booksandcoffee #coffeeandbooks #fortheloveofreading #bookrecommendations #booksuggestions #booksonbooks #booknookstagram #shadowandbone #grishaverse #genyasafin #leighbardugo #grishaversary #binbons
Do you have a favorite book dedication? ✍🏼
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I've found a few recently that have definitely stood out to me 👀 Sometimes a dedication sets the mood for the book and that's something I really love! 🤎
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A few that have blown my mind recently are:
🪞 GALLANT (pictured) by VE Schwab
👑 FOR THE THRONE (actually, both of The Wilderwood books have fabulous dedications) by Hannah Whitten
🛫 EARLY DEPARTURES by Justin A. Reynolds
📖 THE MIDNIGHT LIBRARY by Matt Haig
💔 ONCE UPON A BROKEN HEART by Stephanie Garber
🥘 WITH THE FIRE ON HIGH by Elizabeth Acevedo
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Have you read any of these magnificent books? 📚 
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#lightacademiaaesthetic #lightacademia #cozyaesthetic #bookcommunity #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #cozybookstagram #bookaesthetic #booktography #bookphotography #vintagemood #bookseverywhere #hyggebookstyle #quietshadesofbrown #bookmoments #ofcosymoments #booksandcoffee #coffeeandbooks #fortheloveofreading #bookrecommendations #booksuggestions #booksonbooks #booknookstagram #bookdedications #gallant #veschwab #gallantbook #fantasybooks #fantasyreader
Is there a book you've read this year that is unli Is there a book you've read this year that is unlike anything else you've ever read? 📖
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When I read THE ATLAS SIX in April, I was blown away by how unique it was! 🤯 I have never in my life read another book like it and that's part of why it got 5 stars from me ⭐️ Sure, it started at a slower pace but the further the story progressed, the more fascinating it was (and the pacing at the beginning made far more sense because it led to absolute BRILLIANCE) 🙌🏼
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I don't read much dark academia, so recommend some titles to me (THAT AREN'T AS WELL KNOWN) that you've enjoyed! 🏛
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Do you enjoy books that are less plot, more ✨vib Do you enjoy books that are less plot, more ✨vibes✨?
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I definitely do! 🫶🏼 In the past few years, I've read more and more books like this and they always leave me feeling utterly fascinated (and maybe a little confused?) 🤔 I gotta say that writing reviews for them can be a bit tough, but reading them is a lot of fun 🙈
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Books I enjoy that are no plot, just vibes:
🐝 The Starless Sea
🎪 The Night Circus
💃🏻 Where Dreams Descend
🪶 The Raven Cycle
🚪 The Ten Thousand Doors of January
🧙🏻‍♀️ The Once and Future Witches
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Have you read any of these? 📖 
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #noplotjustvibes #turningpages #booktography #bookphotography
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Books, Reviews · March 8, 2021

Book Review: “A Dress for the Wicked” by Autumn Krause

Romance, fashion design, a competition, and a traitor. These are just a few of the themes introduced in A Dress for the Wicked.

Last year, I added A Dress for the Wicked to my TBR (to be read) list on a whim because it had a beautiful cover. Yep, just like everyone and their mother, I’m drawn to stunning cover art. I hadn’t heard much about the book, but a friend of mine had an extra copy and offered it to me. I’m certainly not one to turn down a free book, so of course I accepted! Last month, I finally got a chance to read it and it took me completely by surprise!

I was not expecting to fall so head-over-heels in love with this story. While it is placed in the genre of “fantasy,” I wouldn’t necessarily consider it fantastical. There’s no magic or supernatural/paranormal in it – only an alternate 19th Century England. The emphasis is mostly on the Fashion House competition and the architecture and design of the clothing itself. In fact, that’s what’s so magnificent about this book!

If you have any interest in style or fashion design, whatsoever, you’ll want to read A Dress for the Wicked. Let me tell you all about it!


related posts

Book Review: The Lucky Escape // Book Review: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo // Book Review: The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue

Why You Should Read A Dress for the Wicked

Don’t judge people by the way they dress. There can be angels in rags and demons in silk.

A Dress for the Wicked

“Nothing much happens in the sleepy town of Shy in Avon-upon-Kynt. And for eighteen years, Emmaline Watkins has feared that her future held just that: nothing.

But when the head of the most admired fashion house in the country opens her prestigious design competition to girls from outside the stylish capital city, Emmy’s dreams seem closer than they ever have before.

As the first “country girl” to compete, Emmy knows she’ll encounter extra hurdles on her way to the top. But as she navigates the twisted world of high fashion she starts to wonder: will she be able to tailor herself to fit into this dark, corrupted race? And at what cost?” (Goodreads Synopsis)

Below you can find my full and honest review of A Dress for the Wicked by Autumn Krause.

Once upon a time, fashion was my world. I spent years trend-watching, looking forward to any occasion that allowed me to dress up and show off a new outfit, and my dream was to attend a fashion university. When life took a different direction, I found a new dream and spent close to five years as a full-time fashion blogger. It allowed me to creatively express myself through my style and I adored every minute of it. Fashion is super personal and while I no longer blog solely about fashion, I still adore clothing and find such fascination in anything style-related.

Reading this story was like coming home. I haven’t been immersed in the fashion world for so long, but this book gave me the opportunity to indulge in something I love. There were moments where I just had to pause my reading because the imagery of Emmy’s sketches was so enticing and I wanted to sit there and bask in how gorgeous those ensembles would be in real life! If you enjoy vivid descriptions, you will adore this book!

In addition to the phenomenal fashion aspect of the story, I really appreciated the character development. There were times when I suspected that someone had certain intentions – and I was pleasantly surprised when what would seem like a predictable plot direction wasn’t what played out. I really enjoyed learning more about the secondary characters, in addition to Emmy (who was, by the way, a pretty likable protagonist, which is a rarity), and I think that their backstories were really well-written. It made me feel more connected to everyone in the story and not just the main characters.

I absolutely think there should be a sequel. Without giving too much away, I believe there are a handful of moments that could be expounded upon in a second book and I’m dying to see what happens with the fashion house and with these wonderful characters.

[CW: death, domestic abuse, classism, destructive fire]


order the book
A Dress for the Wicked – Amazon | Book Depository | Bookshop | Target

Would you read A Dress for the Wicked?


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In: Books, Reviews · Tagged: A Dress for the Wicked, A Dress for the Wicked by Autumn Krause, book recommendations, book review, books, bookstagram, fashion books

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Comments

  1. Lauren says

    March 8, 2021 at 7:59 AM

    I haven’t heard of this book before. I like to read these blog posts because it gives me recommendations. I have some books on my to be read pile. I actually haven’t read anything this year so far. So this is a reminder to get reading. Thank you for sharing.

    Lauren bournemouthgirl.com

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:41 AM

      It’s not a well-known book, so I can’t say I’m surprised. But it is a beautiful story and I hope more people pick it up based on my review 🙂

      Reply
  2. A Cup of Wonderland says

    March 8, 2021 at 9:51 AM

    I loved reading your review and how it previously connected to your love of fashion. I’ve not actually heard of this one and even though I don’t think it would be for me – I do have someone in mind t o potentially gift this to now. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:30 AM

      It was really neat to read a book that had those kinds of fashion descriptions. I haven’t been part of that whole world in quite some time, so it made me smile. How cool that you can think of a friend who might enjoy it 🙂 I hope they do get a chance to read it because it was an excellent book!

      Reply
  3. Eleanor Jones says

    March 8, 2021 at 10:03 AM

    This sounds like a beautifully written book, thank you for sharing your thoughts 🙂 I might have to check this one out in my March reading x

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:30 AM

      Oooh if you do, please let me know! It was such a good book and I want everyone to read it!

      Reply
  4. Claire Lomax says

    March 8, 2021 at 10:12 AM

    I am so guilty of buying a book based on it’s cover! It’s really clear you enjoyed this book which I think makes for a great review. Its almost infectious when someone has loved a book, that enthusiasm and joy shines through x

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:30 AM

      It’s a GORGEOUS cover, so I wouldn’t blame you if that’s the only reason you pick it up – but you’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover that the story is just as beautiful as the cover!

      Reply
  5. Lucy says

    March 8, 2021 at 10:25 AM

    A very interesting book by the looks of it and I love this review! x

    Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:31 AM

      It was a really unique and beautifully-written story. The plot and the way it unfolded really surprised me since I was under the assumption that it was super fantastical. I loved it though!

      Reply
  6. Jessica Khater says

    March 8, 2021 at 11:18 AM

    This book looks very interesting. It doesn’t seem like a cliché and I’d love to give it a try. And by the way, one of the best feelings in the world is reading a book without any expectation and then falling in love with it.

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:32 AM

      It’s definitely not cliche. Very unique story and absolutely beautiful descriptions. It made me want to go try on ball gowns or something haha!

      Reply
  7. Oh to Be a Muse says

    March 8, 2021 at 11:18 AM

    Thank you for your review of this book. I really need to get off TikTok/Reels and go back to reading books.

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:32 AM

      I sometimes think I’m the only person on the planet who doesn’t enjoy video content like that haha. I’d rather read all day and never touch my phone – what’s a blogger to do? 😉

      Reply
  8. Sarah says

    March 8, 2021 at 11:52 AM

    I absolutely add books to my TBR based solely on how beautiful the cover art is. While I have about zero interest in fashion, I will admit the synopsis and your review of this book has me intrigued. A story with good character development is always nice to see, especially with such a likable protagonist. I might just have to add this one to my TBR and see how I like it. It’s always nice to expand my reading beyond what I would normally pick up.

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:34 AM

      I used to go to Barnes & Noble and just take pictures of pretty covers so I could go home later and look the synopses up on Goodreads haha! Covers definitely hook me, but I try not to read without any information at all. Thankfully I at least heard a few good reviews before just launching myself into this one. But my gosh it exceeded all expectations! It was beautiful!

      Reply
  9. Amie says

    March 8, 2021 at 12:09 PM

    Oooh I’ve not heard of this book before, but this sounds like such an interesting book. I love a good book tht has great character development it sounds like such an incredible book!

    Love, Amie ❤
    The Curvaceous Vegan

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:34 AM

      It’s sorely underrated, but it definitely deserves more love! It’s a gorgeous story with such beautiful writing.

      Reply
  10. Lizzie says

    March 8, 2021 at 12:32 PM

    Sounds like a good read! And love how you shared your own experience. It’s finny how life works out sometimes – on path leads to another and then another. 🙂

    Lizzie
    http://www.lizzieinlace.com

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:34 AM

      Okay, SO, I know this is slightly unrelated to your comment, but I feel like you’d LOVE this book. The fashion descriptions made me think of you several times!

      Reply
  11. Jennifer Prince says

    March 8, 2021 at 1:12 PM

    Even the quote you highlighted draws me in! “Don’t judge people by the way they dress. There can be angels in rags and demons in silk.” I mean, what a truth AND a fantastic way to look at people. And, yes, I do pick books by a good cover, which I’ve learned doesn’t always mean a good read, lol!

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:35 AM

      RIGHT? Such a good quote. In fact, there were several excellent quotes throughout – related to fashion and not. It was beautifully written through and through.

      Reply
  12. lee says

    March 8, 2021 at 1:35 PM

    You had me at “fashion design” lol. This sounds super interesting and love that it’s fantasy genre but also only pseudo-so. Definitely going to check it out!
    Lee

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:36 AM

      I mean, really the only fantastical thing about it was that it was set in an alternate Victorian England? Like… I thought there’d be some crazy creatures or magic or something, but nope! Just gorgeous fashion and fierce competition. It was awesome!

      Reply
  13. Ruth| Ruthiee loves Glamour says

    March 8, 2021 at 5:29 PM

    I have never heard of or read this book. I don’t like reading fashion books haha but the cover of this one looks so good. You gave such an amazing review of the book and now, I feel like the book is a really nice one.

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:37 AM

      I’m not surprised! It’s a very underrated book, but it definitely needs more love. The story was beautifully written and it made me wish I had any kind of skill for fashion design or art – even though this was purely fictional ahah!

      Reply
  14. Amanda says

    March 8, 2021 at 7:29 PM

    You have great tastes in books, this sounds so good!!! Awesome review and thanks for sharing 🙂

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:37 AM

      Oh, thank you! 🙂 I’m glad you think so!

      Reply
  15. Merry Sari says

    March 8, 2021 at 9:32 PM

    I can relate when you said that you’re drawn to stunning cover art because ME TOO! I’m interested in fashion (altho not much), based on your review, I’m so tempted to read the book this month >_<

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:38 AM

      I really hope you do read it! It’s such a beautifully written book. I’m surprised it’s not more hyped up! I’ve never heard anyone talk about it outside of a couple of people on bookstagram. It needs some more love!

      Reply
  16. Heidi says

    March 9, 2021 at 1:59 AM

    I hadn’t heard of this book before, but it sounds like one I would like. I love historical fiction and I haven’t actually read one in that genre for a long time. Thank you for the recommendation! I will have to add it to my ever-growing list of TBR. 🙂

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:39 AM

      I’m not surprised, since it’s very underrated. I hope that more people read it after seeing my review because it deserves all the love. It was so gorgeous! It’s not quite historical fiction? I mean… sort of? It’s an alternate Victorian England, so I guess it has those elements, but it’s mostly just about the Fashion House competition!

      Reply
  17. Kelly Diane says

    March 9, 2021 at 5:21 AM

    This sounds like a great book to read. I love anything that is a bit alternative whilst giving you an insight into how things might have been. Its lovely that you felt such a connection with this story.

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:40 AM

      It was a really unique plot and I’m so glad I got a chance to read it because it was WONDERFUL!

      Reply
  18. Rach says

    March 9, 2021 at 8:37 AM

    Oh I admit I sometimes pick up a book because of the beautiful cover too! It sounds like this book has depth! Which I am so glad to hear bc sometimes books with fashion don’t have much to it. Thanks for sharing this!

    http://www.rdsobsessions.com

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 9, 2021 at 10:40 AM

      That’s one of the things I loved most about it: the depth! It was SUCH a great story with beautiful descriptions and world-building, without making fashion seem like a shallow topic – if that makes sense.

      Reply
  19. Tanvi Rastogi says

    March 9, 2021 at 2:01 PM

    I hadn’t heard of this book. I am intrigued now. Thanks for always introducing me to new books.

    ❥ tanvii.com

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 10, 2021 at 10:34 AM

      It’s not a super well-known book, which is part of why I wanted to share it on my blog. It needs more eyes on it for sure. It’s so good!

      Reply
  20. Greta says

    March 9, 2021 at 8:07 PM

    I haven’t heard of this book but appreciate your review. They’re always so helpful!

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 10, 2021 at 10:34 AM

      Haha that’s the most popular comment I’ve gotten, but of course, that’s my job: to introduce people to new books 😉

      Reply
  21. Ashley@AttemptsAtDomestication says

    March 10, 2021 at 7:09 AM

    This sounds like it was meant for you! I love a book with lots of details and descriptions, where you feel transported. I might have to check this one out!

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 10, 2021 at 10:34 AM

      It really was the perfect combination of a great story with a splash of fashion and it made me happy! I’m not part of that world in the same way I once was, but I still appreciate it!

      Reply
  22. Deborah says

    March 10, 2021 at 9:51 AM

    I’ve never heard of this book before but it sounds like exactly the kind of book I’m drawn to! I’ll have to add this to my list as well!

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 10, 2021 at 10:35 AM

      I think you might enjoy it! It was a really unique plot and beautifully written 🙂

      Reply
  23. Venus says

    March 10, 2021 at 3:38 PM

    This sounds like such an interesting book and anything that deals with the slightest info about fashion. I’m completely here for.

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 11, 2021 at 11:29 AM

      You would probably really enjoy this then!

      Reply
  24. Raji says

    March 11, 2021 at 10:58 AM

    I’ve been considering reading this book for a while and the cover is so pretty too. Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing your review, you’ve convinced me to read it!

    Reply
    • Stephanie Whitman says

      March 11, 2021 at 11:29 AM

      It’s a really wonderful book, so I definitely hope you give it a read at some point 🙂

      Reply
  25. Katie says

    March 12, 2021 at 3:17 PM

    I’ve never heard this book, but it sounds right up my street! Thanks for your review

    Katie | katieemmabeauty.com

    Reply
  26. Jenny in Neverland says

    March 13, 2021 at 3:33 AM

    The cover of this book is absolutely stunning! I gotta admit, I’m not that into fashion so not sure I’d be quite as absorbed but it sounds like a great read! x

    Reply
  27. Katie says

    March 14, 2021 at 1:42 PM

    OMG love this! Love how it’s a story set in the fashion world

    Katie | katieemmabeauty.com

    Reply
  28. Meredith Dent says

    March 14, 2021 at 10:06 PM

    Sounds like a great read! I’m not much of a reader, but I just may have to check it out!

    Reply
  29. Caitlin says

    March 16, 2021 at 9:35 AM

    The cover art and the quote you included is enough to sell me on this book! It is so very true about judging someone by what they wear!

    Reply

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Book Review: “The Lucky Escape” by Laura Jane Williams

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Have you done a mid-year reading check-in yet? 📚
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What a wild year 2022 has been so far 😵‍💫 I've found new favorite authors, made progress on my original TBR, checked out some great backlist books, and hit some super exciting goals! 🙌🏼 I'm not going to *just* share my faves or least faves, but instead I'm going to share some of the fun stats from my reading year so far! 🤎
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- Out of the 30 books I just *HAD TO* read this year, I've read 24
- Out of my numerical goal of 120 for the whole year, I've read 119
- I've rated 44 books with 4.5/5 stars (hence my struggle when someone asks for a favorite from the year so far)
- I've read 16 ARCs from 12 different publishers (this makes me want to bawl with happiness because this was such a massive goal for me when I began book blogging!)
- I've participated in 10 buddy-reads
- I've added 38 books to my shelves (either purchased by me after I read and loved a book, given as a gift, or sent by a generous author/publisher)
- I've discovered that there's a chance I *might* like romance more than fantasy now and that's totally okay!
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What has your reading looked like in 2022? ☕️ 
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#lightacademiaaesthetic #lightacademia #cozyaesthetic #bookcommunity #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #cozybookstagram #bookaesthetic #booktography #bookphotography #vintagemood #bookseverywhere #hyggebookstyle #quietshadesofbrown #bookmoments #ofcosymoments #booksandcoffee #coffeeandbooks #fortheloveofreading #bookrecommendations #booksuggestions #booksonbooks #booknookstagram #midyearreadingchallenge #readinggoals #storygraph #readingstats #perfectespressopour
Which of your childhood favorites would you like t Which of your childhood favorites would you like to see reimagined? 📖
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When I found out that GALLANT had The Secret Garden vibes, I was really excited because that was one of my favorites as a kid ⛲️ I think it would be really neat to see this story retold by a few other authors as well (looking at you, Marissa Meyer) 🙌🏼
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Some of the other stories I loved as a kid that I'd like to see "adulted" are:
👑 A Little Princess
🧞‍♂️ Aladdin
 🐁 Stuart Little (it could be cute okay? like some kind of fantasy?)
👒 Madeline
⚜️ Rumplestiltskin (I've only seen this done once and I wasn’t obsessed so I need more!)
☂️ Mary Poppins
🐎 Misty of Chincoteague
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Did you enjoy any of those stories as a kid? 🤎 
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#veschwab #gallant #veschwabfeatures #schwabstagram #readersofinstagram #booksofig #bookgrammer #bookgram #instabooks #bookgasm #fantasybooks #bookishfeatures #booktography #booklover #bibliophilelife #readersofig #readersgonnaread #bookaesthetic #instareads #readerlife #bookishlove #bookstagram #thesecretgarden #retelling #90sbooks #childhoodbooks #childhoodbooksrevisited #bookflatlay
Why did you join bookstagram? 📖 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Why did you join bookstagram? 📖
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Long story short, I joined bookstagram in 2020 because I love books and I love talking about books, but I never had a space to do that 🤷🏻‍♀️ After years of fashion blogging and feeling out of place because of my interests, I wound up on this side of IG and realized that it felt like home 🤎
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I schemed up a name (something to do with coffee and books that didn't have the words "coffee" or "books" in it), took a few photos, created a profile, and went to town 🙌🏼 It wasn't long before I completely FELL IN LOVE with the supportive community, safe space to find new books and talk about the ones I love, and really cultivate my photography skills (which had been lying dormant for far too long) 🙈
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Now, I'm thrilled to have connected with favorite authors, created my own hashtag (hey there #perfectespressopour ☕️), reviewed incredible books, launched my own line of merch, and made tons of new friends 🫶🏼 When I begin to feel down about the numbers or the lack of inspiration, I remind myself of why I started in the first place and I find myself falling in love all over again 🥹
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Thank you for being part of my bookstagram journey 📚
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#cozyaesthetic #mybeigelife #bookcommunity #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #fortheloveofreading #bookaesthetic #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #cozyvibes #cozycore #cozylife #hyggebookstyle #coffeecoffeecoffee #coffeeandbooks #bookstagram #booktography #bookflatlay #booksuggestions #bookrecommendations #booksta #bookphotography #bookswithmagic #booksaremagic #booknerdigan
Tell me your most recent "new-to-you" fave author Tell me your most recent "new-to-you" fave author and which book made you fall in love with their work 📚
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A couple months back, I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of The Wonderland Trials by @saraellawrites... and I immediately fell head over heels in love 😍 Needless to say, I instantly added her entire backlist to my TBR 🙈
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Lately, I've been feeling a bit disappointed with fantasy (which has always been my favorite genre) 😕 It seems like each time I pick one up, I'm either completely uninterested in the story or it just falls flat - but The Wonderland Trials absolutely blew me away! 🤯 If you're looking for something that really stands out amongst the rest, you certainly need to pick this one up! 🫶🏼
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Have you read any great Alice in Wonderland reimaginings? 🐇 
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#mybeigemood #cozyvibes #beigeaesthetic #coffeeandbooks #coffeegram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #thewonderlandtrials #aliceinwonderland #fantasybookrecs #yafantasybooks #fairytaleretellings
Recommend me an underrated queer book! 🏳️‍🌈
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In my world, every month is #pridemonth and I always, always have queer books on my TBR (not just white mlm, but a wide range of lgbtqia+ stories) 🙌🏼 It's important to me to constantly be diversifying my shelves, learning more about the people around me, and continuing to create a safe environment for everyone in my little corner of the web 🤎
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My goal for June was to pack my TBR with as many queer books as I could in CELEBRATION of Pride Month, so I've already read 4 books with lgbtq rep:
🦉 Wild is the Witch by Rachel Griffin
🌎 The Never Tilting World by Rin Chupeco
📺 The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun
🌌 Written in the Stars by Alexandria Bellefluer
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I'm currently reading 3:
🫖 A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers
🩸 Blood Like Magic by Liselle Sambury
🖌 Portrait of a Thief by Grace D Li
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 And I have 2 more on my immediate list:
🥀 Malice by Heather Walter
☀️ Black Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse
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Have you read any of these? 📚 
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#lightacademiaaesthetic #lightacademia #cozyaesthetic #bookcommunity #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #cozybookstagram #bookaesthetic #booktography #bookphotography #vintagemood #bookseverywhere #hyggebookstyle #quietshadesofbrown #bookmoments #ofcosymoments #booksandcoffee #coffeeandbooks #fortheloveofreading #bookrecommendations #booksuggestions #booksonbooks #booknookstagram #queerbooks #readqueerallyear #queerreads #lgbtbooks #queeryourshelves #flippingpages
Favorite Shadow and Bone character? 🦌 ⠀⠀⠀ Favorite Shadow and Bone character? 🦌
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I'm officially considering this Shadow and Bone week, between celebrating the 10th anniversary of the book and finding out about Ben narrating the Demon in the Wood audiobook! 🥂 
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Also, catch me counting down the days until when I get to see my babies on-screen again (can we get a season 2 premiere date, please?) 📺
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To answer my own question, Genya is my very favorite Shadow and Bone character 🤍 In fact, I have plans for a Genya tattoo in the near future 🙌🏼
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Are you as excited for the audiobook and season 2 of the show as I am? 🤩 
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#lightacademiaaesthetic #lightacademia #cozyaesthetic #bookcommunity #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #cozybookstagram #bookaesthetic #booktography #bookphotography #vintagemood #bookseverywhere #hyggebookstyle #quietshadesofbrown #bookmoments #ofcosymoments #booksandcoffee #coffeeandbooks #fortheloveofreading #bookrecommendations #booksuggestions #booksonbooks #booknookstagram #shadowandbone #grishaverse #genyasafin #leighbardugo #grishaversary #binbons
Do you have a favorite book dedication? ✍🏼
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I've found a few recently that have definitely stood out to me 👀 Sometimes a dedication sets the mood for the book and that's something I really love! 🤎
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A few that have blown my mind recently are:
🪞 GALLANT (pictured) by VE Schwab
👑 FOR THE THRONE (actually, both of The Wilderwood books have fabulous dedications) by Hannah Whitten
🛫 EARLY DEPARTURES by Justin A. Reynolds
📖 THE MIDNIGHT LIBRARY by Matt Haig
💔 ONCE UPON A BROKEN HEART by Stephanie Garber
🥘 WITH THE FIRE ON HIGH by Elizabeth Acevedo
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Have you read any of these magnificent books? 📚 
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#lightacademiaaesthetic #lightacademia #cozyaesthetic #bookcommunity #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #cozybookstagram #bookaesthetic #booktography #bookphotography #vintagemood #bookseverywhere #hyggebookstyle #quietshadesofbrown #bookmoments #ofcosymoments #booksandcoffee #coffeeandbooks #fortheloveofreading #bookrecommendations #booksuggestions #booksonbooks #booknookstagram #bookdedications #gallant #veschwab #gallantbook #fantasybooks #fantasyreader
Is there a book you've read this year that is unli Is there a book you've read this year that is unlike anything else you've ever read? 📖
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When I read THE ATLAS SIX in April, I was blown away by how unique it was! 🤯 I have never in my life read another book like it and that's part of why it got 5 stars from me ⭐️ Sure, it started at a slower pace but the further the story progressed, the more fascinating it was (and the pacing at the beginning made far more sense because it led to absolute BRILLIANCE) 🙌🏼
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I don't read much dark academia, so recommend some titles to me (THAT AREN'T AS WELL KNOWN) that you've enjoyed! 🏛
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Do you enjoy books that are less plot, more ✨vib Do you enjoy books that are less plot, more ✨vibes✨?
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I definitely do! 🫶🏼 In the past few years, I've read more and more books like this and they always leave me feeling utterly fascinated (and maybe a little confused?) 🤔 I gotta say that writing reviews for them can be a bit tough, but reading them is a lot of fun 🙈
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Books I enjoy that are no plot, just vibes:
🐝 The Starless Sea
🎪 The Night Circus
💃🏻 Where Dreams Descend
🪶 The Raven Cycle
🚪 The Ten Thousand Doors of January
🧙🏻‍♀️ The Once and Future Witches
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Have you read any of these? 📖 
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Do you enjoy books with illustrations? 🖌 ⠀⠀ Do you enjoy books with illustrations? 🖌
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I definitely do! 🙋🏻‍♀️ One of the most pleasant surprises when I opened up GALLANT was seeing the hauntingly beautiful pieces of art inside 🖤 It made the story feel more alive and helped me understand the way the character's mind worked 🧠
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There was a similar feeling when I first read THE ATLAS SIX and saw the character art 🎨 It gave the cast so much more depth and it made me wish that more books included pieces like this 📖
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Other additions that make books stand out to me:
📰 Unique chapter breaks (I read a basketball book that was divided into 4 quarters, and a book about an actor divided into acts, things like that)
💬 Text messages
🗺 Maps
✍🏼 Handwriting (especially in the form of letters or lists)
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What are some unique things you like seeing in books? 📚 
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#cozyaesthetic #mybeigelife #bookcommunity #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #fortheloveofreading #bookaesthetic #booksandcoffee #cozybookstagram #cozyvibes #cozycore #cozylife #hyggebookstyle #coffeecoffeecoffee #coffeeandbooks #autumnvibes #fallvibes #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksuggestions #readersofinstagram #bookrecs #gallant #gallantbook #veschwab #bookillustrations #bookart #characterart #booktography

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