Is there a particular room in your home that you'v Is there a particular room in your home that you've been wanting to redecorate? πŸͺž
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For quite some time, I've been wanting to give my bedroom a facelift--making it fit the "cozy cottage" vibe I desired when I first bought this house 🏑
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Before starting my renovation journey, I created a mood board with my ideal home decor in mind πŸ›οΈ I knew that I wanted a wood dresser that combined modern farmhouse with classic elements, and @sauderusa 100% delivered! πŸ™ŒπŸΌ
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This stunning oak dresser immediately brought serious #SauderStyle (aka new life and so much beautiful warmth) to the room 🀎 It's incredibly sturdy, has so much space, and was honestly quite easy to assemble (with a friend) πŸ› οΈ I still catch myself staring at it each time I walk by 😍
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How would you describe your decor style? β˜•οΈ 
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#lightacademiaaesthetic #lightacademia #cozyaesthetic #cozyhomedecor #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #cozybookstagram #bedroominspo #falldecor #fallhome #vintagemood #homedecor #hyggestyle #quietshadesofbrown #cottagecore #ofcosymoments #autumnvibes #ltkhome #primarybedroom #bedroomdecor #modernorganic #farmhousedecor #cottagedecor #gifted #booksandcoffee #bookaccount #bookstagram
Is there a book you read this year that you don't Is there a book you read this year that you don't see mentioned nearly enough on bookstagram? πŸ“– Hype up why I should read it in the comments! πŸ’¬
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The first titles that come to mind from my 2023 reading list (so far) are:
🌲 We Are All So Good at Smiling by @ambsmcbride 
πŸ“– The Neighbor Favor by @kristinaforest_ 
πŸ’» Just My Type by @falonballard 
πŸ₯³ House Party edited by @justinwritesya 
🦊 The Night Fox by @ashleywilda_ 
πŸ¦β€β¬› Illuminations by @redwombatstudio
πŸ“š Story Thieves by @jamesrileyauthor 
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Have you read any of these books or are any of them on your TBR? 🀎 
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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 #2023books #underratedbooks
If the main character of your current read asked y If the main character of your current read asked you to swap lives with them right now, would you agree? πŸ’­ Why or why not? πŸ€”
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πŸ—οΈ I definitely would NOT swap lives with either Grayson or Jameson in The Brothers Hawthorne because I don't even have a fraction of their brain power to solve puzzles and enter high-stakes games.. like that would just be a recipe for disaster! 🫣
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🏰 Aaaand I also probably wouldn't swap with Agatha or Sophie in The School for Good and Evil because I'd be very confused in a place like that and wind up creating chaos without meaning to because how do you *not* when you're living in close quarters with fairytale characters? πŸ˜…
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I've been drinking this Bannered Mare tea from @steepedinlore with a splash of milk almost daily and it's been just the pick-me-up I need when I have those midday slumps after spending hours at my desk πŸ’» You don't want to miss this one and you can use the code ESPRESSO10 for a discount when you make your purchase! πŸ«–
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If you don't want to swap with the MC of your current read, which character WOULD you want to trade lives with? πŸ“–
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#bookishtea #cozyvibes #bookishshop #teaandbooks #teagram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandtea #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #maincharacter #currentlyreading #thebrothershawthorne #theschoolforgoodandevil
What are some of your favorite autumnal books? πŸ‚
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Happy first weekend of autumn 🍁 Who else is as thrilled as I am that the best season has officially arrived? 🀭
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I spent the day baking pumpkin bread with my sister, reading The Brothers Hawthorne while sipping my (multiple) cups of coffee, and watching the blustery rainy weather πŸŽƒ
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To answer my own question, here are a few of my top cozy, autumn book recs:
β€’ The Nature of Witches by Rachel Griffin
β€’ All Souls by Deborah Harkness
β€’ Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree
β€’ Payback’s a Witch by Lana Harper
β€’ Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson
β€’ Spells for Lost Things by Jenna Evans Welch
β€’ The Bone Houses by Emily Lloyd-Jones
β€’ The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
β€’ The Wicked Deep by Shea Ernshaw
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Have you read any of these? πŸ“–
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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 #firstdayoffall #autumnvibes #fallvibes #fallbooks
Do you plan your reads around the seasons? 🍁
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I don't pick up many spring or summer books (since I dislike those seasons), but I typically find myself reading more cozy or witchy novels during autumn! πŸ‚ Doing this helps me to fully embrace my favorite time of the year πŸ™ŒπŸΌ
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It'll come as no surprise to you that, thanks to @steepedinlore, I've also been sipping on many mugs of tea while I dive into my autumnal reads πŸ«– Make sure you use my code ESPRESSO10 to get a discount on your seasonal tea purchase! 🀎
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πŸ” FUN FACT ABOUT THIS PHOTO: My sweet and smooshy calico cat, Nona, decided that scarf was her snuggle spot and curled right upβ€”she makes the cutest prop, doesn’t she? πŸ₯Ή
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#cozyaesthetic #mybeigelife #bookcommunity #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #fortheloveofreading #bookaesthetic #cozybookstagram #cozyvibes #cozycore #cozylife #hyggebookstyle #butterbeer #teaandbooks #booksandtea #booksandcandles #candlesandbooks #bookflatlay #bookphotography #booktography #bookish #cozybooks #autumnvibes #fallvibes #steepedinlore #seasonalbooks #calicocat
Where do you purchase your home decor? πŸͺ΄ β €β € Where do you purchase your home decor? πŸͺ΄
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SURPRISE! I'm going to begin adding home content to this page and I'm incredibly excited about it πŸ₯³ I've been slowly but surely transforming my house into the cozy little cottage of my dreams and the first thing to get a rework was the gallery wall in my bedroom, thanks to @desenio πŸ–ΌοΈ
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I've been shopping from Desenio for YEARS now and very highly recommend their stunning art prints and frames, so of course, the opportunity to be a #DesenioPartner for this project was a dream come true πŸ™ŒπŸΌ In fact, I have gallery walls featuring their posters in three different rooms in my home--that's how much I love them 😍
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You can read my full review of this company (from products to pricing to shipping, and more) at the link in my bio πŸ’» And between now and October 3, you can get 45% off your purchase from @desenio using the code ESPRESSOEDITION 🫢🏼
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Which print in my new gallery wall is your favorite? 🀎
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#desenio #vintageinspired #vintageaesthetic #darkacademia #darkacademiastyle #slowliving #darkacademiaaesthetic #cozyvibes #mindfulmornings #intentionalliving #slowlifestyle #bookishlife #darkacademiastyle #ofquietmoments #brownaesthetic #earthtones #gloomandglow #myseasonalstory #aslowmoment #homedecor #cozycottage #farmhousedecor #gallerywall #artprints #modernorganic
What are some books that you've made your entire p What are some books that you've made your entire personality? πŸ™ˆ
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Truthfully, it doesn't matter how long you've followed me, you probably already know that I love all things Shadow and Bone 🫢🏼 I've been going through a Grishaverse reread this year and loving every second of it, but nothing will compare to those first three books! πŸ₯°
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I was late to the game with this trilogy, reading it for the first time just a little before the show first premiered, but it quickly became a core part of my personality πŸ˜‰ Now, I own two signed copies of the first book (one is the special edition hardcover and one is the show tie-in) πŸ“– And no joke, 90% of my candles are related to the Grishaverse in some way (thank you @janzywaxco for providing the perfect scents for my many rereads and rewatches πŸ•―οΈ)
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When was the last time you reread your favorite series? πŸ“š 
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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 #shadowandbone #grishaverse #leighbardugo #signedbooks #fiercereads @fiercereads
Hi friends--what have I missed? 🀎
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All I'm hearing on repeat in my head is Jacob Black's ridiculous, "Where the hell have you been, loca?" πŸ˜† I missed you all SO MUCH this past month and a half 😭
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So to answer the werewolf's question:
🫢🏼 I got to spend a week with one of my best buddies in Ohio and we made friendship blankets, got matching Gilmore Girls tattoos, went to high tea, watched a ton of Seinfeld, avoided a tornado, and shopped til we dropped (it was the best time)
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πŸ“– @chronicacademia and I have been buddy-reading like our lives depend on it for quite some time, but actually meeting in person and being able to geek out over books together face-to-face was the absolute best
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πŸ₯€ The chance to meet one of my favorite authors during the same trip? Couldn't pass that up! I attended the Foxglove book tour in Columbus for @authoradalyngrace and it was such a surreal experience
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πŸͺ΄ I've begun to work on some home projects--finally turning my cozy cottage into exactly that--and I'm loving every second of it! Very thankful for some incredible partnerships that will be coming to this page real soon
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πŸ₯° I’ve spent so much quality time with my family, including celebrating my sister’s birthday with her making such precious memories. So grateful for my incredible tribe who have held me up and brought so much comfort lately. 
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πŸ’” The life update that I posted on my stories on Sept 1 explained the hardest part of why I disappeared for so long. I know that there are great plans for my future even as I stumble my way through the now (if you missed it and are confused, feel free to DM me)
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Now, tell me something that you're looking forward to this autumn πŸ‚
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Books, Reviews · March 8, 2021

Book Review: β€œA 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 β€œcountry 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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53 Comments
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Lauren
2 years ago

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
2 years ago
Reply to  Lauren

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 πŸ™‚

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A Cup of Wonderland
2 years ago

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
2 years ago
Reply to  A Cup of Wonderland

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 πŸ™‚ I hope they do get a chance to read it because it was an excellent book!

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Eleanor Jones
2 years ago

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

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Eleanor Jones

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

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Claire Lomax
2 years ago

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
2 years ago
Reply to  Claire Lomax

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
Lucy
2 years ago

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

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

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lucy

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!

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Jessica Khater
2 years ago

This book looks very interesting. It doesn’t seem like a clichΓ© 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
2 years ago
Reply to  Jessica Khater

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!

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Oh to Be a Muse
2 years ago

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
2 years ago
Reply to  Oh to Be a Muse

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? πŸ˜‰

Reply
Sarah
2 years ago

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
2 years ago
Reply to  Sarah

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!

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Amie
2 years ago

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
2 years ago
Reply to  Amie

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

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Lizzie
2 years ago

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. πŸ™‚

Lizzie
http://www.lizzieinlace.com

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Lizzie

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
Jennifer Prince
2 years ago

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
2 years ago
Reply to  Jennifer Prince

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
lee
2 years ago

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
2 years ago
Reply to  lee

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
Ruth| Ruthiee loves Glamour
2 years ago

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
2 years ago
Reply to  Ruth| Ruthiee loves Glamour

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!

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Amanda
2 years ago

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

Reply
Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Amanda

Oh, thank you! πŸ™‚ I’m glad you think so!

Reply
Merry Sari
2 years ago

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
2 years ago
Reply to  Merry Sari

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!

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Heidi
2 years ago

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. πŸ™‚

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Heidi

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!

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Kelly Diane
2 years ago

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.

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Kelly Diane

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

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Rach
2 years ago

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

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Rach

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.

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Tanvi Rastogi
2 years ago

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

β₯ tanvii.com

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Tanvi Rastogi

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!

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Greta
2 years ago

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

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Greta

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

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Ashley@AttemptsAtDomestication
2 years ago

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!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Ashley@AttemptsAtDomestication

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!

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Deborah
2 years ago

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!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Deborah

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

Reply
Venus
2 years ago

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

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Venus

You would probably really enjoy this then!

Reply
Raji
2 years ago

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!

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Stephanie Whitman
2 years ago
Reply to  Raji

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

Reply
Katie
2 years ago

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

Katie | katieemmabeauty.com

Reply
Jenny in Neverland
2 years ago

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
Katie
2 years ago

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

Katie | katieemmabeauty.com

Reply
Meredith Dent
2 years ago

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

Reply
Caitlin
2 years ago

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: β€œThe Lucky Escape” by Laura Jane Williams

Welcome to The Espresso Edition, a cozy bookish blog (with just a pinch of lifestyle goodness). I'm Stephanie, and I'm overjoyed to welcome you to this safe space designed for book lovers old and new who are seeking everything from book recommendations to reading tips to reviews and so much more.

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Is there a particular room in your home that you'v Is there a particular room in your home that you've been wanting to redecorate? πŸͺž
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For quite some time, I've been wanting to give my bedroom a facelift--making it fit the "cozy cottage" vibe I desired when I first bought this house 🏑
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Before starting my renovation journey, I created a mood board with my ideal home decor in mind πŸ›οΈ I knew that I wanted a wood dresser that combined modern farmhouse with classic elements, and @sauderusa 100% delivered! πŸ™ŒπŸΌ
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This stunning oak dresser immediately brought serious #SauderStyle (aka new life and so much beautiful warmth) to the room 🀎 It's incredibly sturdy, has so much space, and was honestly quite easy to assemble (with a friend) πŸ› οΈ I still catch myself staring at it each time I walk by 😍
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How would you describe your decor style? β˜•οΈ 
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#lightacademiaaesthetic #lightacademia #cozyaesthetic #cozyhomedecor #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #cozybookstagram #bedroominspo #falldecor #fallhome #vintagemood #homedecor #hyggestyle #quietshadesofbrown #cottagecore #ofcosymoments #autumnvibes #ltkhome #primarybedroom #bedroomdecor #modernorganic #farmhousedecor #cottagedecor #gifted #booksandcoffee #bookaccount #bookstagram
Is there a book you read this year that you don't Is there a book you read this year that you don't see mentioned nearly enough on bookstagram? πŸ“– Hype up why I should read it in the comments! πŸ’¬
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The first titles that come to mind from my 2023 reading list (so far) are:
🌲 We Are All So Good at Smiling by @ambsmcbride 
πŸ“– The Neighbor Favor by @kristinaforest_ 
πŸ’» Just My Type by @falonballard 
πŸ₯³ House Party edited by @justinwritesya 
🦊 The Night Fox by @ashleywilda_ 
πŸ¦β€β¬› Illuminations by @redwombatstudio
πŸ“š Story Thieves by @jamesrileyauthor 
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Have you read any of these books or are any of them on your TBR? 🀎 
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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 #2023books #underratedbooks
If the main character of your current read asked y If the main character of your current read asked you to swap lives with them right now, would you agree? πŸ’­ Why or why not? πŸ€”
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πŸ—οΈ I definitely would NOT swap lives with either Grayson or Jameson in The Brothers Hawthorne because I don't even have a fraction of their brain power to solve puzzles and enter high-stakes games.. like that would just be a recipe for disaster! 🫣
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🏰 Aaaand I also probably wouldn't swap with Agatha or Sophie in The School for Good and Evil because I'd be very confused in a place like that and wind up creating chaos without meaning to because how do you *not* when you're living in close quarters with fairytale characters? πŸ˜…
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I've been drinking this Bannered Mare tea from @steepedinlore with a splash of milk almost daily and it's been just the pick-me-up I need when I have those midday slumps after spending hours at my desk πŸ’» You don't want to miss this one and you can use the code ESPRESSO10 for a discount when you make your purchase! πŸ«–
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If you don't want to swap with the MC of your current read, which character WOULD you want to trade lives with? πŸ“–
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#bookishtea #cozyvibes #bookishshop #teaandbooks #teagram #booktography #bookaesthetic #bookflatlay #bookrecommendations #booksofinstagram #booksandtea #cozybookstagram #calmversation #bookishthoughts #bookgram #bookblogger #cozyaesthetic #hyggebookstyle #mybookfeatures #mycozyretreat #ofcosymoments #bookstagram #bookmoments #booksaremagic #booksuggestions #maincharacter #currentlyreading #thebrothershawthorne #theschoolforgoodandevil
What are some of your favorite autumnal books? πŸ‚
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Happy first weekend of autumn 🍁 Who else is as thrilled as I am that the best season has officially arrived? 🀭
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I spent the day baking pumpkin bread with my sister, reading The Brothers Hawthorne while sipping my (multiple) cups of coffee, and watching the blustery rainy weather πŸŽƒ
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To answer my own question, here are a few of my top cozy, autumn book recs:
β€’ The Nature of Witches by Rachel Griffin
β€’ All Souls by Deborah Harkness
β€’ Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree
β€’ Payback’s a Witch by Lana Harper
β€’ Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson
β€’ Spells for Lost Things by Jenna Evans Welch
β€’ The Bone Houses by Emily Lloyd-Jones
β€’ The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
β€’ The Wicked Deep by Shea Ernshaw
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Have you read any of these? πŸ“–
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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 #firstdayoffall #autumnvibes #fallvibes #fallbooks
Do you plan your reads around the seasons? 🍁
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I don't pick up many spring or summer books (since I dislike those seasons), but I typically find myself reading more cozy or witchy novels during autumn! πŸ‚ Doing this helps me to fully embrace my favorite time of the year πŸ™ŒπŸΌ
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It'll come as no surprise to you that, thanks to @steepedinlore, I've also been sipping on many mugs of tea while I dive into my autumnal reads πŸ«– Make sure you use my code ESPRESSO10 to get a discount on your seasonal tea purchase! 🀎
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πŸ” FUN FACT ABOUT THIS PHOTO: My sweet and smooshy calico cat, Nona, decided that scarf was her snuggle spot and curled right upβ€”she makes the cutest prop, doesn’t she? πŸ₯Ή
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#cozyaesthetic #mybeigelife #bookcommunity #thepursuitofcosiness #cozytime #fortheloveofreading #bookaesthetic #cozybookstagram #cozyvibes #cozycore #cozylife #hyggebookstyle #butterbeer #teaandbooks #booksandtea #booksandcandles #candlesandbooks #bookflatlay #bookphotography #booktography #bookish #cozybooks #autumnvibes #fallvibes #steepedinlore #seasonalbooks #calicocat
Where do you purchase your home decor? πŸͺ΄ β €β € Where do you purchase your home decor? πŸͺ΄
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SURPRISE! I'm going to begin adding home content to this page and I'm incredibly excited about it πŸ₯³ I've been slowly but surely transforming my house into the cozy little cottage of my dreams and the first thing to get a rework was the gallery wall in my bedroom, thanks to @desenio πŸ–ΌοΈ
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I've been shopping from Desenio for YEARS now and very highly recommend their stunning art prints and frames, so of course, the opportunity to be a #DesenioPartner for this project was a dream come true πŸ™ŒπŸΌ In fact, I have gallery walls featuring their posters in three different rooms in my home--that's how much I love them 😍
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You can read my full review of this company (from products to pricing to shipping, and more) at the link in my bio πŸ’» And between now and October 3, you can get 45% off your purchase from @desenio using the code ESPRESSOEDITION 🫢🏼
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Which print in my new gallery wall is your favorite? 🀎
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#desenio #vintageinspired #vintageaesthetic #darkacademia #darkacademiastyle #slowliving #darkacademiaaesthetic #cozyvibes #mindfulmornings #intentionalliving #slowlifestyle #bookishlife #darkacademiastyle #ofquietmoments #brownaesthetic #earthtones #gloomandglow #myseasonalstory #aslowmoment #homedecor #cozycottage #farmhousedecor #gallerywall #artprints #modernorganic
What are some books that you've made your entire p What are some books that you've made your entire personality? πŸ™ˆ
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Truthfully, it doesn't matter how long you've followed me, you probably already know that I love all things Shadow and Bone 🫢🏼 I've been going through a Grishaverse reread this year and loving every second of it, but nothing will compare to those first three books! πŸ₯°
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I was late to the game with this trilogy, reading it for the first time just a little before the show first premiered, but it quickly became a core part of my personality πŸ˜‰ Now, I own two signed copies of the first book (one is the special edition hardcover and one is the show tie-in) πŸ“– And no joke, 90% of my candles are related to the Grishaverse in some way (thank you @janzywaxco for providing the perfect scents for my many rereads and rewatches πŸ•―οΈ)
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When was the last time you reread your favorite series? πŸ“š 
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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 #shadowandbone #grishaverse #leighbardugo #signedbooks #fiercereads @fiercereads
Hi friends--what have I missed? 🀎
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All I'm hearing on repeat in my head is Jacob Black's ridiculous, "Where the hell have you been, loca?" πŸ˜† I missed you all SO MUCH this past month and a half 😭
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So to answer the werewolf's question:
🫢🏼 I got to spend a week with one of my best buddies in Ohio and we made friendship blankets, got matching Gilmore Girls tattoos, went to high tea, watched a ton of Seinfeld, avoided a tornado, and shopped til we dropped (it was the best time)
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πŸ“– @chronicacademia and I have been buddy-reading like our lives depend on it for quite some time, but actually meeting in person and being able to geek out over books together face-to-face was the absolute best
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πŸ₯€ The chance to meet one of my favorite authors during the same trip? Couldn't pass that up! I attended the Foxglove book tour in Columbus for @authoradalyngrace and it was such a surreal experience
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πŸͺ΄ I've begun to work on some home projects--finally turning my cozy cottage into exactly that--and I'm loving every second of it! Very thankful for some incredible partnerships that will be coming to this page real soon
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πŸ₯° I’ve spent so much quality time with my family, including celebrating my sister’s birthday with her making such precious memories. So grateful for my incredible tribe who have held me up and brought so much comfort lately. 
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πŸ’” The life update that I posted on my stories on Sept 1 explained the hardest part of why I disappeared for so long. I know that there are great plans for my future even as I stumble my way through the now (if you missed it and are confused, feel free to DM me)
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Now, tell me something that you're looking forward to this autumn πŸ‚
What was the last book someone recommended to you What was the last book someone recommended to you that became a favorite? 🀎
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Okay, this wasn't the last one for me, but it was the FIRST book that @chronicacademia recommended to me… and it became an instant fave 😍
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The Bone Houses is a cozy-creepy (aka, not scary, but just a little eerie, while also being totally cozy and atmospheric) fantasy with incredible disability rep and a truly creative story 🦴 If you haven't read it yet, I highly recommend it for your "spooky season" TBR πŸŽƒ
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What's a cozy-creepy book that you enjoy? πŸ™ˆ 
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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 #thebonehouses #cozyfantasy #fantasybooks #perfectespressopour
Do you prefer to savor one book for an extended pe Do you prefer to savor one book for an extended period of time, or do you tend to fly through your reads pretty quickly? ⏳
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Normally, I would say that I fly through books--inhaling them more than savoring them πŸ˜… But over the last week, I spent time buddy-reading The Fragile Threads of Power... and taking my time with it β˜•οΈ
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There was something really nice about slowing down and reading little bits at a time, then discussing them with my friend, then reading more, then theorizing about the plot, then reading a little more, etc. 🀎 It felt good to just appreciate the book rather than gobbling it up (though I know I'll go right back to that with whatever I read next πŸ˜†)
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If you tend to fly through your reads, what's the last book that made you WANT to take your time with it and savor each moment? πŸ“– 
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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 #fastreader #buddyread #thefragilethreadsofpower

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